Herbs in Polish mythology

Herbs are used in Polish folk customs. Do not use these herbs in any of the methods shown here without the approval of a qualified physician.

Belladonna

This plant is found chiefly in the Carpathian region of Poland, and was listed as an ingredient in old flying ointment recipes. This led to the belief that it has always been associated with witches and evil. This plant is a hallucinogenic and very deadly.

Bellflower

Children suffering from consumption were bathed in this herb; and the results of skin darkening was used to divine whether they lived or would die. If the skin darkened, they would survive. If the skin stayed pale and sickly, the child would die.

Birch

A harbinger of spring, and it is said to bring good fortune and protect against witches and the evil eye.

Burnette Saxifrage

A herb that in folklore is said to protect one from death by eating or drinking it.

Juniper

On the Holy Day of Dyngusy, branches were used to playfully whip blessings onto each other.

Lady's Mantle

This herb would disperse storm clouds when thrown into a fire or hung in a window.

Linden Tree

Offering protection against evil spirits and lightning, the linden tree was commonly planted in front of houses to keep evil from entering. It was also a place to leave offerings and to hold folk rituals. The Blessed Mother is said to hiding in the tree, and since lightning didn't strike it - it also became a symbol of luck. It is also a symbol of family, faith, and the good life.

Meliot

Meliot was used as incense for protection to those who had been given the evil eye. May wine was flavored with this herb.

Mint

Thought of as a Universal healing herb, the most common use was for aid of digestion.

White Bryony

This herb was fenced in when it was found on property to protect it; the leaves resemble a child, and digging it up would destroy their own happiness. It is said that the stems and leaves from this plant were used in spells and incantations.

See also Polish mythology