For the ancient Druids, the healing and magical properties of herbs were inseparable from the larger cycles of the seasons, the movements of the planets, and the progression of a human life. A Druid's Herbal shows the reader how to use herbs when creating rituals to celebrate festivals and significant life passages such as births, house blessings, weddings, funerals, and naming ceremonies. Drawing on extensive research and a deep personal experience with Pagan traditions, Ellen Evert Hopman explores the history and folklore surrounding the eight major Celtic festivals: Samhain, Winter Solstice, Imbolc, Spring Equinox, Beltaine, Summer Solstice, Lugnasad, and Fall Equinox. Included in each discussion are complete instructions on the medicinal and magical uses of the herbs associated with each celebration. Using these Celtic traditions as examples, the author suggests ways to incorporate the symbolic and magical power of herbs into personal rituals that honor all phases of life from childbirth to last rites. Also included are chapters on how to prepare herbal tinctures, salves, and poultices; herbs used by the Druids; herbal alchemy and the planets; and the relationships between herbs and sacred places. Filled with practical information and imaginative suggestions for using herbs for healing, ceremony, and magic, this book is an indispensable and comprehensive guide to age-old herbal practices.
This is an excellent book for those who would consider themselves more than beginners in the study of practical herbal knowledge, esoteric herbal knowledge and herbal lore. The book contains in depth information on Druid celebration and the uses of Herbs therein, during the Druid Spiral of the Year. One gets a good sense of Druid spirituality and the inherent spirituality of our sisters, the Healing Plants. Information on Celtic cultural attitudes to do with the changing seasons gives a good indication of the depth of integration with Nature this culture and its Druids practiced. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in Celtic spirituality and the intricate role Herbs, and Nature, held within that spirituality.
Useful Book
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 23 years ago
Greetings! If you are looking for a book on herbal healing, this is not your book. If you are, however, looking for a book on the historical uses, as well as the spiritual connotations of the herbs that you use, this is the book for you. Herbs have become a big part of my rituals since I read this book several years ago. I kept it in my library, even when I was selling most of my other books so that I could continue to eat. I recommend it to anyone interested in Druidry, or herbal lore.
Detailed,
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 23 years ago
Extremely helpful for those interested in learning about the magic properties of herbs. Historical, gorgeous illustrations and has wonderful information on the druids and their ancient society.
An Excellent Source for All
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
Wow! Whether you are a witch, an herbalist, a druid enthusiast, or just an interested party, this book is incredibly thorough, interesting, and informative. It thoroughly explains the origins, uses (both medical and magical), and preparations of many herbs. Unlike many other herbals, this book freely discusses poisonous and intoxicating herbs, which is a blessing to those using herbs in magical work. It also covers the preparations (and uses) of tinctures, salves, poultices, teas, and other remedies. On top of all of this, you get a glimpse of the Druidic culture! I highly recommend this book.
wonderful and essential
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 26 years ago
This is a wonderful and informative presentation of the Druidic beliefs organized around the Calendar. The herbal lore provides the backbone of discussion, with practical guides to collecting and using the herbs. Great source of Celtic pronunciation and a delightful workbook or sourcebook.
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