There are
lots of varieties of willow; White, Goat, Crack, Grey and Sallow are all indigenous
to the UK. Druids especially valued the
Goat Willow for this ability to transform from silver to gold, a kind of
natural alchemy that they called “sunshine fire”. The Weeping Willow is not
native however it was imported from China in the 18th century.
The Willow
is a common sight growing beside rivers, ponds and lakes and above underground
water sources; they carry with them an amazing watery energy which gives them
the name of the Moon Tree.
The willow
is sacred to the triple Goddess, especially Cailleach the old Crone aspect; she
represents the dark side and wisdom. The Willow in the Tree alphabet stands for
the female and lunar rhythms of life. Water and tidal movements of the sea are
governed by the pull of the moon. The moon in its monthly rhythms is female,
contrasting with the male sun's daily and yearly turnings.
As well as favouring watery places the Willow growth is somewhat prolific. If you were to cut a branch and plant it into
the ground, wit would easily root and grow into a new tree. For this reason,
the willow is strongly linked to new growth, regeneration and inspiration.
Willow was used in the annual purification ritual of "beating the
bounds" (defining the parish boundary) and the birch twigs of a witch's
broom were traditionally bound with willow thongs. It is also sacred to the
moon with willow wands being favoured for lunar magic and ritual. It is also
thought that placing willow under one's pillow, especially around the full
moon, helps promote night visions. The willow is sacred to poets and bards as a
tree of inspiration.
Medicinal
Uses
Willow bark contains salicin, or Salicylic
acid, used to make aspirin.
Infusions from the bark have long been used as
a remedy for chills, rheumatism, and fevers.
Willow sap applied to the skin can remedy acne
and a strong decoction of boiling the bark and leaves in water can be
rubbed into the scalp for dandruff.
A tea or incense of willow bark can be used to help connect with the divine
feminine energy within each of us as willow is a strongly feminine tree.
Ogham Name
: Saille
Letter- S
Month 15th April – 12th May
Month 15th April – 12th May
Color-
Bright Colors
Animals- Hare, cat, hawk
Planet: The Moon
Gemstone: Moonstone
Flower: Primrose
Diety: Morgan le Fay, The Morrigan , Cailleach
Animals- Hare, cat, hawk
Planet: The Moon
Gemstone: Moonstone
Flower: Primrose
Diety: Morgan le Fay, The Morrigan , Cailleach
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