We have passed the Equinox and the nights are drawing in. The bees and butterflies are making the most of the glimmers of sunshine, feasting on the nectar of ivy flowers as they well know that the weather is turning and winter will soon be upon us. I have always been fascinated about the traditional and ancient uses of Herbs.
Ivy, Hedra helix L. an evergreen native herb which, in ancient times, symbolised eternal life, loyalty, devotion and undying desire, for it’s well known habit of attaching itself firmly to a wall or tree.
Bay, Laurus nobilis, was also considered a symbol of eternal life. The Greek generals wore a laurel wreath in the belief that, by doing so, they could cleanse themselves from the bloodshed. . The Romans, adopted the Bay as a symbol of victory. The latin ‘laureate’ means crowned with laurels, a synonym for bay, hence Poet Laureate.
And Myrtle, Myrtus communis, a personal favourite, for it looks good all season long and is so useful in the kitchen. In ancient times, and this tradition has returned, was the symbol of love, marriage and fertility. The Myrtle wreath was often worn by brides and bridegrooms. In Wales it was believed that the destruction of the Myrtle is tantamount to killing love and peace.
So these three herbs, Ivy, Myrtle and Bay when arranged in a vase to brighten the home in winter symbolises happiness, love, devotion and longevity.
lovely would it be possible to make a front door wreath out og then?
thinking it would be nice for when i get our new home
Yes you can easily make it into a wreath. This is what we put on our front door at Christmas and I also make a table decorations using the same herbs.
love the histor and ancient lore with herbs and flowers. so interesting! thanks.
Yes it is totally fascinating. With regard to greenhouses suggest planting some Houseleeks as close as possible to protect it from lightning and witchcraft!!
Love this post and would love to share it with others on facebook but there seems to be no ‘share’ button – is that because of copyright issues?
Hilary
hummmm me thinks this is one techo to far. I will look into it. Thank you for pointing it out to me.
ok checked it and found the facebook share is under the box ‘more’ in the ‘share box’. Hope that makes sense.