Tag Archives: Celtic Tree Month

Celtic Tree Month of Oak “Protection, Stability & Strength”

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english-oak-1409132 Steve Knight

Celtic Tree Month of Oak runs from June 10 -July 7.

“Under yonder oaken tree,
Whose branches oft me shaded;
Elves and fairies dance with glee,
When day’s last beam hath faded:
Then while the stars shine brightly…”
(tradional welsh air circa 1870’s)



OAK TREE LORE


 


Many cultures held the oak tree sacred. The Greeks and Romans viewed this tree as a symbol of power and endurance. They were associated with the Greek deities Artemis, Hecate, Zeus, and Cybele. In Rome, Jupiter and Juno were Lord and Lady of the oak, and each year the celebration of their union was held in an oak grove.   The Norse god Thor was also Lord of the oak. In Scandinavia, this tree was called the “thunder tree and people kept oak branches in their homes to protect against lightning strikes. Germanic tribes and Anglo-Saxon people also honored the oak as did many Native American tribes.


 


The ancient Celts also held the oak sacred. To the ancient Druids, the oak was the most sacred tree in the grove. It was a powerful symbol of the wheel of the year and called the king of the forest. Groves of oak trees were considered sacred ground and to damage, an oak tree carried a penalty of death.   Part of the reason that this tree was given such respect was due to the trees size, life span and it’s production of an important staple food……….acorns. The acorn is claimed to be man’s first food. Acorns are tasty and plentiful and can be eaten as they are or ground into flour. When needed they can also be fed to hogs and other animals.


 


The word “door” comes from the Celtic word for oak, “Duir”. Oak doors are still popular today because they are solid and long-lasting. It is also part of the bardic alphabet, Ogham.   The Druids also found help for their divination and meditation rites in these groves. From the wind in the oak leaves and the birds that lived in the trees, they were said to gain great insight and be given messages from the gods. Oak groves were gathering places, where the Druids would teach students, draw strength and hold meetings, rites, and gatherings. It is also the personification of the Celtic Tree of Life as it appeared to live in lower, middle and upper worlds simultaneously. The oak tree was associated with the thunder god Taranis due to its ability to attract lightning.




OAK IN HEALING


In ancient healing practices, the oak also had its uses. Antiseptic was made from the acorns, while juice from the leave could be applied to a wound for the same purpose. A decoction from the inner bark eased a sore throat, while one from the outer bark would reduce fever. The bark itself also produces “tannin” which is important in the tanning of leather.




OAK TREE IN MAGICK In ritual and magick oak can be used for protection, stability, strength, and success. It has long been the custom to carry a piece of lightning struck oak for protection. This custom is still in use in the British Isles today. Acorns are traditionally carried for fertility and should be gathered at night for this purpose. An acorn should be planted during the dark of the Moon to bring money, and if you catch a falling oak leaf you will be free of illness all winter. Purification can be performed by burning oak leaves and oak galls or serpents eggs are powerful talismans. Since we are coming up on Litha, it is good to point out that oak logs were traditionally burned on this Sabbat.




OAK PEOPLE


 


People who are born during this Tree Month are generally self-motivated and determined. They also carry responsibility well. They are born leaders and know how to handle a crisis. They also tend to be a bit on the serious side but are cheerful and optimistic none the less.


For a man looking for a strong magickal name Oak is a good choice. It symbolizes strength, fertility, and majesty.




OAK CORRESPONDENCES

Folk Names: Jobe’s Nuts, Tanner’s Bark and Juglans

Element: Fire

Deities: All Thunder Gods (Zeus, Thor, Taranis), Lugh, the Dagda, Hecate, Herne, Rhea, Cybele, Artemis, Jupiter, Juno, Dagda, Hercules, Llyr


Ogham Symbol: Duir

Colors: Dark Brown and Black

Animals: Lion, Salamander, Horse (white)

Keyword: Protection


Written by CatSister/LBolotin 2010 from the following resources:

The New Book of Magickal names by Phoenix McFarland

Flower and Tree Magic by Richard Webster

treetotem.com


English Oak photo by Steve Knight/ freeimages.com

					

		
		
	


				
					
	

		

						
The Celtic Tree Month of Hawthorn,  May 13th to June 9th.

			
						

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The Celtic Tree Month of Hawthorn,  May 13th to June 9th.


The Tree


The origin of the word Hawthorn comes from the Anglo-Saxon “Haegthorn” which means hedge thorn. This tree grows to the size of a large shrub, it is because of this that it is popular as a hedge plant in England. It has dense branches that grow in twists and turns which makes it almost impenetrable. It also grows some pretty nasty thorns. The wood is similar to apple and burns hot. The new growth on a hawthorn is reddish and in May it sports white flowers and later in the season red berries both of which have medicinal properties. This tree has a very long life span and has been known to reach 250 yr old. The hawthorn was often called the May Tree because its fragrant white flowers bloomed in May just in time for Beltane. These flowers were used for decorating maypoles and homes for the holiday. (this custom must have come later because as you will see this tree is a good guy/bad guy tree). The flowers were also used for weddings by the Greeks and Romans who considered them lucky. On the other end of the scale, the Europeans said the hawthorn was unlucky and associated with witches. As I said good tree/ bad tree ( pretty flowers but nasty thorns) and the Irish Brehon word for this tree means “harm”.


In Healing


In healing, the flowers, leaves, and berries are used. A tonic made from the berries is said to help water retention in diabetics. The leaves and flowers can be made into a tea that helps anxiety, poor circulation, asthma, arthritis, loss of voice, and rheumatism.

In Myth & Magic


In ancient times hawthorn had a double reputation. The Greeks and Romans considered them lucky while the Europeans said the hawthorn was unlucky and associated with witches. In time the flowers were used for decorating maypoles and homes for the Beltane. One interesting superstition is that the month of May is considered to be unlucky for weddings and is said to be the main reason that June weddings are so popular.


The flowers were used by the Greeks and Romans who considered them lucky at weddings. In mythology, the hawthorn plays a roll in the romantic Welsh tale of Kulhwch and Olwen. It embodies the protector of Olwens virginity, a giant called Yspaddaden. The giant is slain as the spring flowers (hawthorn) open which symbolizes summer defeating winter and the turning of the seasons. In other lore, the erotic scent of the hawthorn blossoms is said to enhance fertility and promote chastity. The ancient Turks called it “the scent of woman” and was considered an erotic symbol.


As a protective plant hawthorn was used to protect the home from lightning and negative entities and the ancient Romans believed that children were protected from evil spells if it was placed in their cradle. it could grant wishes and could be found guarding sacred wells and crossroads.


Hawthorn has long been considered a witches tree and is part of the sacred triad of oak, ash, and thorn (the three realms/ maiden, mother, crone). It is also a favorite of fairies which makes it very unlucky to cut one down or harm it in any way.


To dream of pink hawthorn flowers means happiness, but if they are white it means money. If you dream of the tree itself it means harmony among friends. As a magical name, Hawthorn is perfect for witches of either sex.

Hawthorn People


Hawthorn people are full of great ideas and tend to be multi-talented innovators. These people may also be performers in an artistic format, much like the Bards of old. They also make shrewd business people and have little patience with folks who do not take their work seriously. They can also be very protective of family and anyone they consider family.


Correspondences


Magical Properties: fertility(both male and female), protection (the thorns), prosperity, binding and cleansing, fishing magic, chastity, and fairy magic.

Also Known as May Bush, Whitethorn, Bread, and Cheese Tree, Mayflower, Tree of Chastity, Gaxels


Deities: Danu, Frigg, Thor, Brigid, Vulcan, Dagda, Goibaniu, Cardea


Sacred Stones: topaz, amethyst




Compiled and written by Cat from the following sources:


the crystal forest

controversical.com

dutchie.org

The New Book of Magical Names, Phoenix McFarland

Cunninghams Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, Scott Cunningham

Flower and Tree Magic, Richard Webster

Tree Totem.com


Hawthorn photo by Plamen Radev/freeimages.com


I invite you to check out my websites!


The Desert Path: The dusty ramblings of a desert pagan. https://thedesertpath.com/


Cat’s Treasure Trove …. an eclectic collection of jewelry & gifts! https://thedesertpath.com

Sacred Spirals (the place where all paths meet)

https://www.facebook.com/groups/SacredSpirals/

					

		
		
	


				
					
	

		

						
The Celtic Tree Month of Willow April 15- May 12

			
						

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The Celtic Tree Month of Willow or Saille (Sail)  April 15- May 12.


The Tree


The graceful willow tree is associated with the element of water and they grow best in or near damp or wet areas. They love growing on or near riverbanks and actually help to stop soil erosion. They are impressive trees that can grow up to 80 feet in height. There are many varieties of willows throughout Europe and North America, including globe, white and weeping and all They make excellent shade trees. All willows produce long fuzzy catkins in the spring before the leaves appear, they have thick, ridged bark and long thin leaves. As anyone with willow trees can attest to they are messy trees and are what is called “self-pruning” as they tend to drop copious amounts of branches when it’s windy. Willow is also a shrub and can be found growing along creeks and in marshy areas.


In Healing


In healing, willow is used as an all-around pain reliever and is the main ingredient in aspirin. It is also used to treat fever, chills, bursitis, menstrual cramps, chronic dysentery, worms, and edema just to name a few. It is an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antiseptic. It has also recently been shown to delay the formation of cataracts and lower the risk of male heart disease. It can also be used as a wash to treat poison-ivy, corns, and cuts.

For more information on the healing properties of willow: Read more….




In Myth & Magic Willows are symbols of new journeys, and contact with the otherworld. The Celts have a creation myth that involves this tree. It is said that in the beginning there were two scarlet-colored sea serpent eggs that held the sun and the earth. These eggs were hidden among the branches of a great willow tree to keep them safe. When the eggs hatched, they brought forth all life. Willow is the embodiment of female and lunar energy. She is the ebb and flow of the waters of the Earth Mother and governs the cycles of women and of earth. The month of willow brings the wonder and enchantment of spring, moon related magic, strengthening of intuition and new wisdom. Her connection to the moon can bring visions and the understanding of dreams. To dream of a willow tree is said to mean that a rival will take your lover. In Northern European folklore willow was associated with death and the words “wicked and witch” are said to be derived from its name, however, if you place the branches in your home those within will be protected from evil.




Other associated folklore includes knocking on this tree to avert evil and yes this where the saying “Knock on wood” originated. If you carry a piece of willow on your person it will instill bravery and remove the fear of death. If there is a willow growing near your home it will protect you, and if you need to get something off your chest, tell it to a willow tree and your secret will be held fast. Talismans of willow twigs and leaves can be made for love, friendship, and loyalty. As a magical name, Willow is one of emotion. It is also a flowing and loving name for a serious moon worshiper!




Willow People


People born in the month of willow tend to be empathic with good intuition. They can also access ancient memories easier than most other people. They have a deep love for beautiful things and can be honest to a fault. Willows also accept change easily and are quick to grab opportunities that come their way.

On the downside, willow people are subject to mood swings and can have trouble reasoning things out. They can be hard to get to know and demanding which makes them hard to live with at times.




Correspondences Folk Names: Pussy Willow, Saille, Saugh Tree, Tree of Enchantment, Withe, Withy Magic: love, fertility, protection, intuition, healing, contact with fairies and elementals, moon magic. Deities: Artemis, Hecate, Aradia, Sarasvati, Ishtar, Dana, Diana, Ceridwen, the Morrigan, Belil, Poseidon, Arawen, Brigid, Mercury Sacred Stones: Moonstone, Opal, Pearl, Mother of Pearl




written by Cat from the following sources:

Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs by Scott Cunningham

The New Book of Magical Names by Phoenix McFarland

Whispers from the Woods by Sandra Kynes

crystal-forest.com

dutchie.org


I invite you to check out my websites!


The Desert Path: The dusty ramblings of a desert pagan. https://thedesertpath.com/


Cat’s Treasure Trove …. an eclectic collection of jewelry & gifts! https://thedesertpath.com

Sacred Spirals (the place where all paths meet)

https://www.facebook.com/groups/SacredSpirals/

					

		
		
	


				
					
	

		

						
Celtic Tree Month of Alder or Fearn (FAIR-n)  March 18th to April 14th.

			
						

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Celtic Tree Month of Alder or Fearn (FAIR-n)  March 18th to April 14th.


Plant Information:


This tree is a member of the Birch family and is native to the British Isles, Europe and North America. Alders require a great quantity of water and can reach 65 feet or more if left to grow undisturbed. The tree itself grows in a rough cone shape with branches that are evenly spaced down its long trunk, The leaves are roundish and finely toothed and in the spring it produces flowers and catkins. The wood from this sacred tree comes in a number of colors. When alder is cut down the wood changes from white to reddish-yellow which bears a remarkable resemblance to blood. This caused our ancestors to believe that the tree bled when cut and it was considered unlucky to cut one down. The wood is oily and water-resistant and in past times was used for shields, the foundations for houses and is still used today in cabinetry and door making.


In healing, alder has been used as a substitute for quinine. It has also been used to treat parasites, inflammation coughs, poison ivy, toothache, sprains, and strains. On an interesting side note the inner bark is a great natural pesticide.




In Myth & Magick The time surrounding the Vernal Equinox is and was important in the wheel of the Celtic year. The alder represents free will and liberty. In some places today it is still a crime to cut down this sacred tree. The person who is dumb enough to cut one down is seen as the cause of any trouble that happens in his neighborhood. The alder tree is also associated with courage and the evolution of spirit. This tree spirit can be called upon for help during disputes, where you need to see clearly to make the right decision or when you simply need to draw and bring forward your own inner strength. Alder is associated with all four elements ( earth, air, water, fire) which makes it good for elemental magick. Flutes can be made from the wood and whistles from young alder shoots can be made to summon air elementals. Alder is also a fairy tree and as such is good for fairy magick. The leaves and twigs can be used in charms and talismans for protection. Dyes can be made from the bark, flowers, and twigs to dye ritual robes. Red: Bark/ Green: Flowers/ Brown: twigs.




Alder People:


People born in the month of Alder make excellent oracles, they can tell you like it is and manages to do it gently. However, alder people must remember not to abuse their power, and just like the tree itself, they tend to mature slowly. Alders are powerful and make steadfast allies, they are trailblazers who set the pace for others to follow. If you are an alder person, just remember to slow down once in a while and take a good look around you.


As a magickal name, Alder works well for people who tend to be secretive and changeable or for those with fire signs. Choosing this name can bring out sensitivity in people who have trouble letting it show.




Other Correspondences:


Names: Tree of Fire


Deity: Bran, Proteus, Branwyn, Freya, Cailleach, Teutates, and Ares


Animals: Snake, Fox, Hawk, Gull, Raven


Use in Spells for Weather, Spiritual growth, Teaching, Banishing, Protection, Healing




dutchie.org

crystal-forest.com

Flower and Tree Magic, Richard Webster

Whispers from the Woods, Sandra Kynes


Old Tree photo  by eblind/ freeimages.com

					

		
		
	


				
					
	

		

						
Celtic Tree Month of Rowan  January 21 – February 17

			
						

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Celtic Tree Month of Rowan  January 21 – February 17


Beneath the green and berry red

They flutter about

Making a melody with each wing strum

Magical lil’ creatures


https://nightingaletrails.com/tag/rowan-tree-poem/




TREE INFOMATION The Rowan tree is also known as the Mountain Ash and is a member of the rose family. They can be found growing among ancient settlements and ruins in Europe where they grow “like weeds”, although many of these trees were planted there as well. Rowan trees can grow almost anywhere and do well in poor soil, which would explain their growth in many areas and even grows well at high altitudes.This tree grows up to 40 ft in height and produces flowers in May, after which come the red berries. The berries are said to be sacred food of the gods which were jealously guarded and kept away from man. The tree itself has a round, open-top crown and the leaves which turn red in the fall are 4-8 inches in length and oblong with serrated edges along the point. The berries grow in clusters and each berry has a small design that resembles a pentagram on it. It was this pentagram “design” that linked this tree to witchcraft during the 15th and 16th centuries, it’s reputation became so negative that herbalist’s stopped using it for fear of being labeled as a witch. The bark from the Rowan tree is used for tanning and making dye and the berries are edible and make great jams and jellies. The berries are also still used in herbal medicine as a tea for treating diarrhea and they are very high in vitamin C which makes them useful for treating colds.




ROWAN IN MYTH & MAGICK


Rowan is also known as a fairy tree and as such, it is not advisable to cut branches from the tree itself. If you need to cut branches from one you should always leave the Fae a gift of yourself, like hair or fingernail clippings. By using this tree it is said that you will be protected by the Fae themselves. However, fallen branches are the best if you are going to use the wood. Rowan is thought to be one of the sacred druid trees and can be found growing near many of the ancient stone circles and it played a main role in some of their ceremonies.


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In popular folklore Rowan trees could be planted next to your home as protection against lightning and to promote good luck while sprigs of Rowan could also be hung over doors in the home to ward off the evil eye or if you wore one, it kept the fairies from kidnapping you. They were even planted in churchyards to watch over the dead and protect the living from ghosts. One very popular European custom that was still being used approximately 100 years ago was the construction of rowan wood crosses. These “ornaments” of protection were made from twigs and tied with red thread. Every home had one over the front door as did seedbeds, barns, and pigsties. They were also given to babies before they could be baptized. At Beltane, the berries were sewn into a circle and hung over windows to prevent lightning strikes or strung into necklaces to ward off the evil eye. The berries were also added to healing charms to help the patient to recover faster.


Rune staves were at one time made from Rowan wood simply because of its protective powers as are wands and dowsing rods.

Use Rowan in spells for blessings, grounding & centering, protection, warding against psychic attack, protection against enchantment.


ROWAN PEOPLE


People born in the Month of Rowan are visionaries and strong humanitarians. They are very passionate about what they believe in and can lean toward over-zealous at times. New Moon Rowan people (born in the 1st two weeks of the month) are easily frustrated with others who fail to see or help with the greater awareness of issues like racism, bigotry, and general ignorance. Full Moon Rowan People (born in the last 2 weeks of the month) tend to make big promises, which are usually more than they can handle. They come through to an extent but are unable to completely follow through.


CORRESPONDENCES


The Ogham name from Rowan is Luis (Lush).


Rowan is also known by these names: Delight of the Eye, Quickbeam, Ran Tree, Sorb Apple, Wicken Tree, Witchtree, Thor’s Helper


Deities: Dagda, Brigid, Hecate, Thor, Cerridwen, Vulcan, Pan, Herne, Brigantia


Animals: Ducks, quail


Sacred Stones: Peridot, Smoky Quartz, Diamond




sources: the crystal forest

controversical.com

dutchie.org

The New Book of Magical Names, Phoenix McFarland

Cunninghams Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, Scott Cunningham

Flower and Tree Magic, Richard Webster

Tree Totem.com


Rowan Tree photo by Irina Naumets/freeimages.com




I invite you to check out my websites!


The Desert Path: The dusty ramblings of a desert pagan. https://thedesertpath.com/


Cat’s Treasure Trove …. an eclectic collection of jewelry & gifts! https://thedesertpath.com


Sacred Spirals (the place where all paths meet)

https://www.facebook.com/groups/SacredSpirals/

					

		
		
	


				
					
	

		

						
The Celtic Tree Month of Birch (Beith/Beth)  December 24th – January 20th.

			
						

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The Celtic Tree Month of Birch (Beith/Beth)  


December 24th – January 20th.


BIRCH LORE

Birch is the beginning of all things (life) and it is the opposite of last month’s tree Elder (death). This month is symbolized by the unconscious self and raw wild force of the natural world. The tree itself is a symbol of birth, initiation, and sacrifice. It is also associated with horned animals like goats and stags as well as the Horned Gods like Cernunnos, Dagda, and Pan. Other names for this tree are Tree of Birth, Lady of the Woods. The Irish Gaelic word for this tree is “Beith”, which is derived from “Achadhbeith” meaning “the field of birch trees.




TREE INFORMATION


This tree is very common in Europe where it is known as the Silver Birch, it is also grown in North America under the name “weeping birch”. The leaves are long and egg shaped with notched edges. The slender trees have silvery white bark which is close to the color of poplar and aspen and to the untrained eye, these trees may look the same. Birch can grow up to 100 feet in height and will do so unless they can take over their favorite soil which tends to be sandy, in which case they like to spread out in low clumps. In fact, birch trees grow so well that they are the first new trees to sprout up in cut areas. This may be the reason that they are associated with rebirth and birth.




BIRCH IN HEALING


This tree does have a few healing properties. The inner bark is said to be a good pain reliever as are the leaves which as tea, can be used for rheumatism. The sap produces syrup and from the bark comes flour and beer.




BIRCH IN MAGIC & MYTH

Birch is particularly useful for spells involving healing, fertility, new beginnings, blessings, protection, growth, love, and creative inspiration. It is also one of the nine sacred woods used in the sabbat fire and is a representation of the Goddess. Charms made of birch twigs were given to newlyweds to promote fertility and cattle were lightly struck with birch rods for the same reason. Brooms were traditionally made from birch, the twigs were called “Besom twigs” and love spells can be written on strips of birch bark that have been gathered during the new moon. This tree also plays an important role in the pagan tradition of jumping the broomstick which is part of the handfasting ceremony.


The birch can be found in folklore as well. Baby cradles were made from birch wood because it was thought to protect the innocent. On the Isle of Man criminals and lunatics were “birched” in a serious effort to drive out evil.


In Wales during the 13th-14th Centuries lovers were said to meet under these trees in the “house of leaves”. As a token, a remembrance for these occasions wreaths would be made from the leaves of the tree. There is also an English/ Irish custom that took place on December 26th called “the hunting of the wren.” The old year or the “wren” was hunted down by the new year which was symbolized by the robin and was said to carry a birch twig in its claws.


To choose Birch as a magical name is cleansing and promotes your inner light. It would be a good name for a caregiver or for someone who seeks to make positive changes in politic for social issues.




ABOUT BIRCH PEOPLE


Birch people have a marvelous ability to be uplifting to others. They do not care for excess in any areas of their lives and like to promote a calm and content atmosphere where ever they go.




CORRESPONDENCES


Deities: All Horned Gods, Pan, the Dagda, Cernunnos, Thor, Freya, Frigg, Cewrridwen

Sacred Stones: Quartz Crystal, Fluorite

Colors: White and Dark Green




sources: the dutchie.org, The New Book of Magical Names, Phoenix McFarland

Cunninghams Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, Scott Cunningham

Flower and Tree Magic, Richard Webster

crystal forest.com

treetotem.com


Birch Tree photo courtesy of Vaclav Pastucha/freeimages.com

					

		
		
	


				
					
	

		

						
The Celtic Tree Month of Elder (Ruis )November 25 – December 22nd

			
						

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The Celtic Tree Month of Elder (Ruis) November 25 – December 22nd


The theme for this month is death, rebirth and the return of light. This month begins with the dark time of the year and ends with the birth of the sun at the Winter Solstice. Other names for this tree are Frau Holle (German), Eldrum, Ellhorn, Boure Tree, Lady Ellhorn. The word Elder comes from the Anglo-Saxon word “aeld” meaning fire. Evidently, the young branches have hollow stems that make them useful in making a fire.




TREE INFORMATION


The elder tree is both a tree and a shrub and is a member of the honeysuckle family. The shrub grows to about 30 ft. while the tree grows to around 50 ft. Both varieties like damp places along the edge of the woods. Elder has incredible regenerative power and can quickly regrow branches and roots. The tree has beautiful white flowers in the spring, growing in formations that resemble a bridal wreath. The flowers become reddish-black berries and make the most wonderful jellies, jams, and syrups. The branches of the elder tree have a strong resemblance to bones when peeled of their bark. In the middle of the branches is a spongy center that looks similar to marrow. An unsuspecting person might actually believe the bare branches to be human bones!




ELDER IN HEALING


Elder is also a medicinal plant, the berries and flowers have many uses. However, it’s good to point out that on the whole elder is considered poisonous. The dried berries and flowers make wonderful tea which is high in vitamins A, C, iron, Calcium, and Potassium. This makes it beneficial for colds and sore throats. A distilled version of the flowers is good for treating cuts, burns, and scrapes. Please keep in mind that if you pick elderberries make darn sure that they are ripe. Unripe elderberries cause severe diarrhea.




ELDER IN MAGIC & MYTH


The Elder has long been associated with Witches but it appears in Christian myths as the tree of doom. Judas was said to have hung himself from one and the cross of Jesus was made of Elder wood.

The Celts believed that these trees were homes to the Sidhe and treated them with respect when cut the tree produces a reddish sap that made people believe that the spirit within the tree had been hurt. It is considered very bad luck to harm one but if you must cut or prune an elder tree one should always ask permission first. It is also bad luck to make a cradle for a baby out of elder, this is because of the tree’s association with death. Planting an elder tree near your home will create good relations with the fae as well as bringing prosperity to the home and its inhabitants. Even today there remain some taboos against burning the wood. Placing elder wood on your windowsill will keep vampires away, you can also wear it to the same effect. The folklore about vampires is said to be much older than the use of garlic.


Use Elder for spells of banishing, faery magic, healing, protection, and prosperity. Elder wood is also good for making magical tools, but remember to ask first!


As a magical name Elder is good for the person who is serious about magic. It also invokes mystery, luck, and sturdiness of character.




ABOUT ELDER PEOPLE


People born in the Month of Elder can be wonderful healers and seers as well as gifted musicians. They are slow to mature and waste time and energy on things not worthwhile. They can be very curious about profound subjects and study these things intensely. As healers or seers, elder people must choose their words carefully as they can be very persuasive with their speech. They must be careful not to sway the thinking of others and let them make their own decisions.




Correspondences


Deities: The White Goddess, Danu, Cailleach, Boann, Hel, Frey, Vulcan, Venus


Animals: All white animals, raven, pheasant


Sacred Stones: Red Jasper, jet, bloodstone




Compiled and written by Cat from the following sources:

the crystal forest

controversical.com

dutchie.org

The New Book of Magical Names, Phoenix McFarland

Cunninghams Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, Scott Cunningham

Flower and Tree Magic, Richard Webster


Elder Tree photo courtesy of Michael & Christa Richert/freeimages.com

					

		
		
	


				
					
	

		

						
Celtic Month of Ivy  Sept 30- Oct 27 (Gort/ Gwinwydden )

			
						

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Celtic Month of Ivy  Sept 30- Oct 27 (Gort/ Gwinwydden )


“Oh, a dainty plant is the Ivy green,

That creepeth o’er ruins old!

Of right choice food are his meals, I ween,

In his cell so lone and cold.

The wall must be crumbled, the stone decayed,

To pleasure his dainty whim:

And the mouldering dust that years have made

Is a merry meal for him.

Creeping where no life is seen,

A rare old plant is the Ivy green.”


Charles Dickens: The Ivy Green




IVY LORE The ancient celts and in particular the Druids held ivy in high regard. In Wales ivy was related to the goddess Arianrhod, and was used in her ritual of opening a portal into the Otherworld also known as the dark side of the moon and the Realm of Faery. This realm is symbolized by the butterfly and gives ivy a mysterious and mystical aspect. Persephone is also associated with this month, this begins the time when she departs for the underworld for the dark half of the year. This month is a time of settlement and reconciliation as it relates to karma. This month also corresponds to the Hunters Moon which is this month’s full moon. It relates to female hunting animals wolf (Brigid), boar (Garbh Ogh), Lioness (Sekhmet) This plant is associated with the Goddess because it grows in a spiral This plant is sacred to the God Dionysus and during the Bacchanal people would run around waving the thyrsus which was actually fir branches that were wrapped with ivy. And the ancient Greeks would give a wreath of ivy to newlyweds as a symbol of fidelity. PLANT INFORMATION  This “super vine” has great strength because of its ability to force its way into solid rock and it was powerful enough to kill a full grown oak tree. Ivy is another Celtic tree that is not a tree, and it depends upon a real tree to give it support. It is a member of the Ginseng family although it is considered an evergreen and it represents the ever blooming aspect of the human psyche. It develops yellowish flowers in October and then black berries. Ivy is a POISONOUS plant and while it is said to have been used for medicinal purposes (like curing hangovers and cleansing wounds) I would highly recommend AGAINST it, as all parts of this plant are poisonous. IVY IN MAGIC In its magical role, it protects against evil spirit’s negativity and disaster. and is a symbol of loyalty, healing rituals, and longtime friendships. It can be used in love charms to promote fidelity. As a magical name, Ivy denotes strength and to give someone ivy as a gift states “attachment” and be mine forever.




IVY PEOPLE


People born in this month are balanced by Reed people. In their own right, Ivy people have great stamina and talents that can bring them great public honors. Ivies also tend to radiate success even when they are not so fortunate. They are colorful and unique individuals who can be manipulative and use their power ruthlessly to get what they want. The key for Ivy people is not to abuse this power.


Deities: Dionysus, Artemis, Ariadne, Bacchus, Osiris, Arianrhod, Danu, Hel, Persephone, Rhea, Frey, Ogma, Cerrunos


Sacred Stones: Opal, Chrysoberyl, Alexandrite


Colors: Blue and light brown/tan


Animals: Butterfly, swallow, mute swan, lark


written by CatSister 2010 with the following sources:

The New Book of Magical Names by Phoenix McFarland

Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs

Whispers from the Woods by Sandra Kynes

dutchie.org

controverscial.com

crystalforest.com


Ivy Leaves photo by Sven Bauer/ freeimages.com

					

		
		
	


				
					
	

		

						
Celtic Tree Month of Vine: Sept. 2 – Sept. 29

			
						

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The Celtic Tree Month of Vine or Muin runs from September 2nd to September 29th.


I dreamed this mortal part of mine

Was metamorphosed to a vine,

Which, crawling one and every way…

from Robert Herrick’s “The Vine”




VINE LORE


 


The month of Vine is the bridge between the Autumn Equinox and the dark time of the year that begins at Samhain. Muin is an Ogham word that means highest of beauty and strongest of effort and the Irish word Muine means thicket.


Vine symbolizes emotion and sensuality and represents the clinging aspirations of artists and poets. Vine refers specifically to the Grape Vines. In mythology, the grapevine is personified in the god Dionysus or Bacchus, who brought the art of winemaking to mankind. Carvings of this god show him with an ivy wreath upon his head and his body covered with grapes and leaves. As such he resembles the GreenMan of the Celtic traditions. In Pagan/Wiccan traditions the five pointed leaves are sacred to the Goddess as is the spiral growing pattern of the vines themselves.




PLANT INFORMATION


 


This is not a tree but more like a shrub and is probably the oldest cultivated plant in the world. It is a long lived plant and scientists have found fossilized grape leaves that date back 40 million years! These vines have large lobed leaves and produce small whitish flowers, that in turn produce grapes. Vine can grow up to 115 feet in length and live to a recorded life span of 600 years. The stem of very old grapevines has been known to produce “planks” 15 inches wide when cut. This vine has no uses other than winemaking.


In healing, Vine is known for it’s restorative and regenerative powers. It can help with fever, the leaves and seeds were used to stop hemorrhaging, bleeding and inflammation. Grapes are rich in iron, and vitamins and provide an excellent source of instant energy. They are also a laxative and a diuretic. Blackberries were used by the ancient Greeks to treat gout. In England, the leaves were used to treat burns while berries were used to treat bug bites, loose teeth, and sore throats. The bark and roots are known for their astringent properties and are still used today.




VINE IN MAGICK


 


Vine is female and is ruled by the moon. It can be used to promote prosperity, fertility, mental powers and can be used in garden magick. Ritual uses include celebrations, grounding, and faery magick. Use the leaves of this plant to enhance your own goals and ambitions. Vine is also one of the nine sacred woods burned at Beltane as a symbol of joy.


Vines properties are as follows:


Thistle: Protection, strength, exorcism, hex breaking

Blueberry: Spirituality, protection, and dream magick

Grape: Garden magick fertility, prosperity/money, and binding

Blackberry: Protection, healing, and prosperity


To dream of grapes/blackberries is a sign of abundance, if the leaves are green then success is coming your way and if you are harvesting the berries your income will be a good one. To dream of walking through a vineyard foretells of prosperity.


Here is a recipe for Vine Moon Tea (good for use in Earth magic, sex magic, overcoming difficulties):

1 part blackberry

1 part dandelion

splash of currant wine or Grape juice

pinch of hibiscus

(dutchie.org)




VINE PEOPLE


 

Vine people have high personal standards and tend to be natural socializers and well organized. They also have well developed instincts and an eye for detail however this can become an issue as they can be highly self critical. They are also secretly romantic and sensitive. Vine people have a dual personality and can be happy one minute and down the next. It is important for Vine people to learn the importance of balance between giving and receiving.


To choose Vine as a magickal name can indicate that you are a climber and have great potential. You are willing to work hard to achieve what you want.




VINE CORRESPONDENCES


 

Deities: Dionysus, Osirus, Branwen, Brigid, Danu, Freya, Hathor, Bacchus, Dagda, Etain.

Animals: White swan, eagle, lizard, hound

Sacred Stones: Blue beryl and emerald




written by CatSister 2010

sources:

The New Book of Magical Names by Phoenix McFarland

Cunninghams Encyclopedia of Magickal Herbs

Whispers from the Woods by Sandra Kynes

dutchie.org

controverscial.com


Photo courtesy of freeimages.com/ John Evans

					

		
		
	


				
					
	

		

						
The Celtic Tree Month of Hazel (Coll) August 5th – September 1st.

			
						

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The Celtic Tree Month of Hazel (Coll) August 5th – September 1st.


HAZEL LORE: The Tree of Knowledge


Long ago, hazel trees were prized by the Romans who used the limber twigs to support their grape vines. These vines were sacred to the Roman god Bacchus, and goats who were found feeding on them were sacrificed to Bacchus and roasted on hazel spits. The Romans were also responsible for giving Scotland it’s Latin name of Caledonia. Hazel trees were plentiful in Scotland and the Romans called it Cal-Dun or Hill of Hazel. Since the medieval times hazel has been held sacred, particularly in Ireland where it is part of a Celtic triad – Apple for beauty; Hazel for wisdom; Oak for strength. These trees were in fact so sacred that cutting one unnecessarily carried the penalty of death. Hazel was often used in funeral pyres and it was also found in the coffins of people of note like chiefs and rulers.


In Irish legend, 9 hazel trees grew around the sacred well of Connla. The trees produce flowers and fruit (nuts). The nuts fell into the well and were eaten by the salmon, the legend says that the salmon will have the exact number of spots as the number of nuts it has eaten. The salmon became the carrier of all knowledge.




PLANT INFORMATION This tree is found all over the world ( Europe, North Africa, Asia, Britain and the US). It can be found growing in damp places, hedgerows, and oak woods. It resembles a large shrub more than a tree although it grows to heights of 12-20 feet. Hazel trees have heart shaped leaves and produce yellowish catkins (male) along with reddish flowers (female) which can be seen between April and May. There are aproximately 15 species of Hazel and they all produce nuts, called hazelnuts, filberts or cobnuts depending on where you live. The nuts are ripe by September and can be eaten right off the tree, The uneaten nuts fall off the tree and will actually germinate if left. The wood from this tree is tough and limber. It is used to make walking sticks, fishing poles, baskets and hampers. It’s an excellent firewood and the charcoal is used for making gunpowder and crayons.




HAZEL IN MAGICK

Hazel is used for divination and dowsing rods are often made from it. This was actually documented by Roman author, and philosopher, Pliny the Elder. The art of dowsing is called rhabdomancy and traditionally a divining rod was cut at night and from the eastern side of the tree. Before the 17th century these dowsing rods were used not only to find water but treasure, thieves and murders. An interesting fact is that this form of dowsing is still practiced in the Celtic nation of Cornwall. Cornish legend says that the dowsing rod is guided to water or ore loads by piskies who guard the hazel trees. The nuts can also be used for divination. It is said that if you eat hazel nuts prior to divinatory workings you will gain increased knowledge. You can also use the wood, leaves, and nuts in dark moon rituals. The nuts were talismans carried for various reasons. People carried them to prevent toothaches. And they were said to help cure snakebites. Along this line St. Patrick used a hazel rod to drive all the snakes from Ireland. In Scandinavia this tree was sacred to the Thunder God, Thor and were used to protect a person again being struck by lightning.


In Scotland, on Halloween, 2 hazel nuts are given the names of lovers and put into the embers of the fire. If they burn quietly and stay together, the lovers will remain together. But if they crack and move apart they are ill matched. Hazel nuts are also considered good luck, and said to increase fertility. New brides were often given strings of hazel nut as gifts.


Ancient sailors also wore crowns of woven hazel twigs called wishing caps. These caps offered protection against bad storms at sea. The ancient druids believed that that if you wore such a crown you could become invisible.


This wood is also good for crafting wands and record of them can be found in ancient Egyptian and Chaldean records. According to Greek myth Apollo gave a hazel wand to Mercury. With it Mercury was able to instill good virtues into mankind.




HAZEL PEOPLE If you are a hazel person you should pay attention to your own natural rhythm. It is easy for you to be impatient and you should sit back and let thing s happen naturally. You will be much happier. Hazel people are also understanding, moody, honest and tolerant partners and have excellent ideas of right and wrong. Choosing Hazel or Hazelnut as a magickal name represents someone who is wise and experienced.




 


HAZEL CORRESPONDENCES


Folk Names: Coll, Poets Tree and Dripping Hazel


Deity Associations: Mercury/ Hermes, Thor, Artemis, Arianrhod, Mannen Mac Lir, Ogma and Diana.


Ruled by: Mercury and the Sun


Star Signs: Virgo, Libra, Gemini


Sacred Stones: Lapis, Amethyst, Sapphire


Colors: Brown, Dark Blue


Animals: Salmon, Crane


Key Word: Intuition




Written by CatSister/LBolotin 2010/ Updated 2019 from the following resources:

The New Book of Magickal names by Phoenix McFarland

Flower and Tree Magic by Richard Webster

Whispers from the Woods by Sandra Kynes

Contraversical.com


Photo courtesy of freeimages.com


I invite you to check out my websites!


The Desert Path: The dusty ramblings of a desert pagan. https://thedesertpath.com/


Cat’s Treasure Trove …. an eclectic collection of jewelry & gifts! https://thedesertpath.com

Sacred Spirals (the place where all paths meet)

https://www.facebook.com/groups/SacredSpirals