Foraging Herbs
I would like to take a moment to dedicate this post to my husband, Paul, who has shown great patience and support during our numerous hiking adventures conquering the most adventurous and enjoyable Bruce Trails in Ontario, Canada.
While I've been busy foraging herbs and mushrooms, Paul has been walking by my side, never tiring of the trails that stretch before us. His passion for the fantasy genre, particularly his love for books like "The Lord of the Rings," has not only enriched our conversations but also inspired me in unexpected ways. It was his fascination with the mystical and magical landscapes described in these books that gave me the idea to write a post on the enchanting herbs that nature has bestowed upon us all over our precious planet. Thank you, Paul, for being my constant companion and for being the muse behind this post.
Healing herbs have long been revered for their natural medicinal properties, providing relief and nourishment to the body and soul. Just like in J.R.R. Tolkien's epic fantasy series, "The Lord of the Rings," where healing herbs played a significant role in the quest for restoration and salvation. Throughout the series, several herbs are mentioned, each with its own distinctive properties and associations. Athelas, also known as Kingsfoil, is a key herb known for its healing properties and is used by Aragorn to treat wounds and ailments. The fragrant Lothlorien Elanor and Niphredil (Snowdrops) are often referenced for their enchanting beauty, while miruvor, a legendary cordial, is said to grant strength and renewed vitality. From the exotic and mythical to the mundane and practical, the mention of these herbs in the Lord of the Rings adds an extra layer of depth to the already rich and intricate world created by Tolkien.
According to various discussions on the social media, there is a growing common opinion on a number of plants that share a significant amount of characteristics with Athelas herbs mentioned to have healing powers in the fantasy series of The Lords of the Rings. Athelas is a fictional healing herb that resembles a real plant. Among the suggestions put forth by various enthusiasts, four plants emerge as the most likely candidates. Wintergreen, with its refreshing aroma and medicinal properties, is believed to possess similarities to Athelas. Greater Plantain, known for its ability to soothe skin ailments, is also considered a potential match. Mint, renowned for its soothing and revitalizing qualities, is another plant that resonates with Athelas. Lastly, Basil, with its aromatic and healing attributes, is often mentioned in discussions revolving around Athelas-like plants. While further research is necessary to conclusively determine the true botanical equivalent to Athelas, these four plants present intriguing possibilities for culinary and medicinal exploration.
To fully understand these four herbs, I studied them by using three reliable sources: Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs by Scott Cunningham , Weeds of Canada by Clarence Frankton, Canada Department of Agriculture, 1955 and The Essential Herbs Handbook by Lesley Bremness. These two references gave me very intriguing information about each herb. I learned about the historical background, magical properties, and medicinal uses of each herb, which helped me understand and appreciate their uniqueness.
Wintergreen herb, scientifically known as Gaultheria procumbens, is a delightful addition to the world of culinary herbs. With its vibrant green leaves and invigorating aroma, wintergreen adds a refreshing and minty flavor to a variety of dishes. Native to North America, this herb is commonly used in teas, candies, and desserts. The aromatic oil extracted from its leaves is also used in aromatherapy and personal care products. Wintergreen's distinctive flavor profile is often compared to peppermint or spearmint, making it a popular choice for those seeking a cool and soothing sensation in their culinary creations.
Folk Names: Checkerberry, Mountain Tea, Teaberry
Powers:Protection, Healing and Hex-Breaking.
Planet: Moon
Element: Water
Magical Uses: Wintergreen was placed in children’s pillows to protect them and grant them good fortune throughout their lives.
Greater Plantain (Plantago major) is an herbaceous plant that is widely recognized for its medicinal properties and culinary uses. Native to Europe and Asia, this perennial herb can now be found in various parts of the world, particularly in temperate regions. The leaves of Greater Plantain have a distinctive ribbed texture and are broad and oval-shaped, making them easily identifiable. While often considered a weed, this plant has been used for centuries to treat a range of ailments, including respiratory issues, digestive problems, and skin irritations. In the culinary world. Greater Plantain's young leaves can be eaten raw in salads or cooked as a delightful addition to soups, stews, and stir-fries. Its mild, slightly nutty flavor adds a unique twist to any dish. With its abundance of health benefits and culinary versatility, Greater Plantain is definitely a plant worth exploring in both the herbal and culinary realm. I personally love to make a cup of tea as it is beneficial in the maintenance and improvement of liver and kidney.
Folk Names: Englishman’s foot, St. Patrick’s leaf, Snakeweed, Slanlus, Cuckoo’s Bread
Powers: Protection, Healing, Strength, Snake repelling
Planet: Venus
Element: Earth
Magical Uses: Bind the plantain with red wool to the head to cure headaches. Plantain is also hung in the car to guard against the intrusion of evil spirits.
Mint is a term that refers to different types of plants in the Mentha family. The three most well-known types of mint are Wild Mint (Mentha arvensis), Peppermint (Mentha piperita), and Spearmint (Mentha spicata). Mint is popular for its soothing and refreshing qualities.
Wild Mint, also known as Mentha arvensis, is a fragrant herb with a distinctively refreshing flavor. It has been used in various cultures for a long time. Peppermint, with its cool, menthol-like aroma, has been used for centuries in aromatherapy and medicine. It is known for its ability to calm and invigorate the senses, especially during stressful or tiring moments. Some people claim that mint is one of the oldest forms of medicine, as it has been found in archaeological sites that are more than 10,000 years old.
Folk Names: Wild mint, Lammint, Brandy mint
Powers: Healing, Sleep, Love, Purification, Psychic Powers
Planet: Mercury
Element: Fire
Magical Uses: Mint has been long used in healing potions and mixtures. Peppermint worn on the wrist assures that you will not be ill. Placed beneath the pillow it sometimes offers one glimpses of the future.Peppermint is also used in travel spells. Its bright green leaves and crisp scent lead to its use in money spells and prosperity spells. The easiest of which is to place a few leaves in the wallet or purse, or rub where your money is kept.
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) , with its aromatic and healing attributes, is often mentioned in discussions revolving around Athelas-like plants. Known for its unmistakable spicy fragrance and vibrant green leaves, basil has been celebrated for centuries in culinary and medicinal practices. Its distinct aroma adds depth and flavor to various dishes, making it a beloved herb in the kitchen. Beyond its culinary uses, basil is believed to possess significant healing properties. Rich in essential oils and antioxidants, it is thought to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, promoting overall wellness and vitality. Basil provides many nutrients, including vitamin A and C and antioxidants, which all help improve eyesight, and boost the health of the skin, hair and heart. Native habitat of this plant is tropical rainforest and Asia.
Folk Names: Albahaca, Witches Herb, Njilika, Balanoi, Feslien, Sweet Basil, “Our Herb”
Powers: Love, Wealth, Protection, Exorcism, Flying
Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Magical Uses: Basil given as a gift brings good luck to a new home. Basil brings wealth for those who carry it in their pockets, and is used to attract customers to a place of business by placing some in the cash register or on the doorsill. Witches were said to drink about 1'/2 cup of basil juice before flying off into the air.
