It’s that time of year again where the hawthorn berries are fat on the branches, just begging to be picked, like apples. They are ripe to perfection when they just fall off the boughs by themselves.
Hawthorn is primarily used in magick for fertility, harmony, protection, love and marriage spells.
At one time, Hawthorn trees were believed to be witches transformed into trees!!
Placed around doors and windows, hawthorn will prevent people from entering your home in an astral state and stop spirits from entering too. Also, planting hawthorn around other trees, or near your home is said to protect them from lightning strikes and planting an entire hedge of hawthorn around your home will keep out unfriendly spirits.
The berries from hawthorn are astringent and can be used for a sore throat and can also be made into a tasty liquor (think of sloe gin, but with hawthorn berries instead). Another way to use the berries is to turn them into wine or jellies.
My dad used to tell me the leaves can also be eaten and were once referred to as ‘bread and cheese’. I tried them once and they were quite bitter and not at all nice. I did think he was having me on at the time though, as he once tried to convince me rabbit droppings were chocolate covered raisins and that a Haggis was a real animal….I was a gullible child!!
The berries from hawthorn are astringent and can be used for a sore throat and can also be made into a tasty liquor (think of sloe gin, but with hawthorn berries instead). Another way to use the berries is to turn them into wine or jellies.
My dad used to tell me the leaves can also be eaten and were once referred to as ‘bread and cheese’. I tried them once and they were quite bitter and not at all nice. I did think he was having me on at the time though, as he once tried to convince me rabbit droppings were chocolate covered raisins and that a Haggis was a real animal….I was a gullible child!!
If you have any specific worries or woes, gather seven strong, sharp thorns from the branches and whisper to each one the problem that needs solving. Wrap them in a leaf and bury them under the hawthorn bush.
Apparently, wands made from hawthorn are especially effective against malevolent spirits. The wand is best cut ‘green’ in order that the bark will peel easily, so, when choosing your wood, ensure a suitable gift for the fae protector of the tree.
Hawthorn is also a powerful psychic shield that can lift the spirits, and a little charm of the wood is a thoughtful gift for a friend going through a time of particular vulnerability or depression. Dried flowers, berries or leaves can be burned in incense at a ritual working for the same purpose too.
Melusina The Green Witch 