Herb of the Month – Holly Leaf

A Brief History: The holly leaf is originally native to America; it should always be used with caution and care especially in regards to the berries which are poisonous. It is very important to bear in mind that twenty berries do constitute a lethal dose.

The bright red berries and sharp thorns of the Holly are thought of as a tree traditionally sacred to the ‘God of Winter’ and yet interestingly within the Gnostic teachings Holly is aligned with the Goddess and in particular has close sacred associations with Mary Magdalene. It is said that in the past, wands were made of it and used in the recurring ritual battle between the Holly and the Oak, the winter and summer tree kings. Before the Yule tree was born those of Craft would hang a large ball of evergreen and Holly within the home at Yule, the 21st of December. From the ball would be draped red, white and black ribbons and paper roses, apples and oranges. The Holly especially at Yule is often  associated with the Ivy, known in the past as a goddess tree; also being green in midwinter and once again used for decorations and for wand use when twined around a suitable host.  The Holly and Ivy do have further very deep symbolism associated with them, for they represent man and woman, going on forever; the Lord and the Lady; the Holy couple.

Physical Use: For use with potions and healing the holly leaf needs to be ground very finely in a pestle and mortar and then can be made into a paste with olive oil and thus applied directly onto the skin to reduce wrinkles, calm arthritis and for the cleansing of facial tissue. Also the resulting paste can be added to an oil burner within the home to reveal the truth of suspicion. In Craft the potions are always magically charged before use by using an effective ‘charging rite’ specifically taught to Craft.

Magical Use: Hang a small sprig of holly above the door to prevent enemies from entering and to encourage useful spirits to enter the home. Holly is further used within Spell Craft for raising energy and for communication across the five plains and will be used in specific Craft rites and ceremonies of which further knowledge and wisdom is attained with in the teachings of the path.  Holly leaves when placed under a pillow will enhance travel within dreams.

Templar teachings from ‘The Keeper of Scrolls’