Juniper
Juniper, a fragrant evergreen shrub, has deep roots from various regions including Europe, Asia, and North America. We harness its mystical properties for a range of magical purposes from cleansing and protection to enhancing visions. It has a distinctive aroma (hello, gin!) and is a popular choice for a lot of spellcrafting as you can use the leaves and the berries.
Ancient cultures, from the Greeks to the Native Americans, revered juniper for its purifying qualities. It’s also associated with protection against evil spirits and was used to ward off negativity by many cultures. Europeans used juniper to smudge and purify their homes around springtime, and the Celts would burn it on Samhain to fortify a connection with the spirit realm. In Scotland, juniper wood was a favourite for fueling whiskey stills once upon a time; it barely smokes so it was great for hidden stills.
But it’s not exclusive to spiritual practices; juniper has been used for its medicinal properties in traditional herbalism. The berries are known for their diuretic properties and have been used to treat various ailments, including digestive issues and respiratory problems.
Here are some ways juniper has been traditionally used in witchcraft:
- The berries can be placed in amulets to attract love
- Burn dried berries in bonfires to enhance your ability to see spiritual energy
- Add some to spell jars for luck and prosperity
- Bundle and dry juniper needles to smoke cleanse your home
- You can also use juniper to ward unwanted affection (try a burning ritual on the waning moon)
- Infuse some water with juniper and use it to wash away attachments
- Hang some small juniper branches over your door for protection
Juniper also acts as a bridge between realms, making it a conduit for spiritual energy and transformation.
Juniper is great for witches invoking protection, prosperity, and purification. From its branches to its berries, this immortal evergreen has helped witches protect their homes, families, and practices for as long as it has had roots in the ground.
