Fennel
This hardy perennial has feathery leaves and is either bronze or green
in colour. It is reputed to promote strength and courage, and also longevity.
Snakes were reputed to eat fennel to help them slough their skins and
horses could be caught if fed this in gingerbread. In medieval times fennel
was hung above doors on Midsummer's Eve to ward off evil spirits. From
Midsummer onwards it produces bright yellow flowers and looks very similar
to dill. It is an important culinary herb, having an aniseed flavour it
is useful for fish or vegetable dishes. It is believed to be useful in
treating eye complaints, strengthening sight. Taking an infusion of leaves
and seeds is said to relieve tired eyes.
Ferns
Also known as 'Devil Brushes' in England it is believed that hanging
dried ferns in the house will protect all the inhabitants from thunder
and lightning damage. Be careful though because it may rain when the
ferns are cut or burnt. the brackenseed of the plant is said to provide
magical qualities if you place a few in the pocket - invisibility being
the most notable. Also be careful when you go seed collecting because
it is believed that treading on a fern will cause the poor unfortunate
traveller to become confused and lose his way. Stomach ache is supposed
to be alleviated by taking some crushed brackenseed taken with water
from a fern growing on a tree.
Feverfew
Growing this around the outside of the house is said to fight off and
keep out disease. Also known as 'Flirtwort' and 'Bachelor's Button'
it has lacy yellow or green leaves and is highly aromatic with yellow
and white flowers in the summer, although bees dislike it. Said to relieve
fever if sprigs of the plant are bound to the wrist.
Flowers
To as far back as ancient Egyptian times giving flowers to people has
been seen as a good luck token bringing good fortune to all concerned
though folklore has it that taking flowers into a house that have bloomed
out of season or giving them to a friend will bring bad fortune. When
choosing flowers for someone who is ill it is considered wise to think
about the associations connected with each flower (white should not
be given, whilst red are seen to be a good choice as they denote life,
regeneration, blood), and never mix flowers together or place flowers
on the bed for a sick person. Picking a flower from a grave and then
simply throwing it way is thought to bring bad luck as the place where
the flower falls will be haunted.
A German belief though has somewhat happier results. By taking a flower
to the table and brushing over your lips after you have drunk some wine
then giving this to your lover will secure their love to you forever.
Planting flowers during the period of the new moon is reputed to encourage
good luck and prosperity in all your gardening endeavours.
Foxglove
The belief in fairies is where this plant received its name from as
the little folk were reputed to wear 'folk's gloves'.
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