Herbs and Oils for Beltane

Beltane is all about life. Creating life; fertility among plants, animals and people; preserving life with fire that purifies, and prosperity; attraction from flowers attracting bees to women washing their faces with the morning dew to attract a mate; connection with the handfastings and weddings that resemble the greenwood marriage; and the veil between worlds being thin so you can connect with spirits such as fairies.

This is part 2 of this series of Sabbat Herbs & Oils. You can check out part 1 here. With that all in mind I thought I'd share some of the many plants and oils associated with this season. You can use them in your rituals as altar decor, incense, oils, or in your ritual bath as a bath oil, bath bomb or bath salts. You can make a potpourri or room spray with one or some of these ingredients. Anyway, you feel pulled to celebrate the season. Just be sure to read any and all label warnings.

Hawthorne is well known for this time of year. This tree or bush has long been associated with May Day celebrations in England as it was often used as the maypole. The flowers blooming just in time for decorating the home and persons celebrating. The Celts associated Hawthorn with fairies and witches. Some say witches transformed themselves into the trees. Others say where Oak, Ash and (Haw)Thorn grow together one may see fairies. Hawthorn is also associated with fertility and ancient peoples would use their blossoms to decorate their weddings. 

Lavender n' Violet Body Scrub @ Scarlet Moon Creations

Violets are also now starting to bloom this time of year. This plant is known for its edible flowers and drinkable leaves as well as for its scent. Violets are associated with bringing in love especially when combined with lavender. They correspond with the planet and Goddess Venus as well as with the element of water. Carrying a bunch of the flowers would protect from evil spirits. You can add some to you kitchen magic for prosperity or love. 

Woodruff is another plant associated with May Day but more so in Germany and its neighboring countries. Sweet Woodruff is one of the main ingredients in May Wine, a traditional may day drink. Mix it with a German wine like Riesling and let it infuse its flavor for at least 24 hours before mixing in sugar, fruits, soda water and more for a zingy sangria-like punch. Woodruff, also called Master of the Wood, can be associated with the Green Man as it has protective and prosperity aspects as well when carried.

 

Beltane Ritual Oil @ Scarlet Moon Creations

Daffodils are a happy yellow and white flower that also blooms this time of year. But they are also called Narcissus. These are toxic flowers so do not burn, consume or bathe with them. Keep them out of reach of pets and children. However, it is said that to have a bouquet in your bedroom can increase fertility. This flower also corresponds with the planet Venus and the element of Water. Their cheerful appearance can be used to uplift the mood. So you can use them to decorate your altar or home. Pin one to your lapel to carry that feeling around with you all day.

Cherry Blossoms, or Sakura, trees are one of the worlds most popular flowering trees. Native to Japan they have a magical quality to them that has them transplanted around the globe. You know spring is here when the transient Sakura trees are in season. Japanese Cherry Blossoms signal the beginning of the agricultural season in Japan. A time of growth and abundance.

These are just a few flowers, herbs and oils you can use during the Beltane, or May Day season. I just realized that all together these would make a great flower crown. And of course you don't have to restrict their usage to just that 24 hour period. They all would be perfect to celebrate this time of year up until we start getting closer to Summer and the Summer Solstice. As always with any of these and other items new to you, test them carefully before going all in especially if you have sensitive skin. Do a spot test on your skin before fully submerging into a bath. Sniff a bit of the item before purchase to make sure you are not allergic or sensitive to it. Read all label warnings because some items are not for women who are pregnant or nursing, or others on certain medications. Safety first always.

And let me know if you decide to use any of these items in the comments below. I'll be back soon with some Beltane suggestions. If you would like to try any of my spring products you can find them in the link below.

~Lashette
  Scarlet Moon Creations