Wishbone’s Witchy Herbs: Henbit Dead Nettle
Henbit is a member of the mint family, but it lacks the distinct menthol scent of peppermint or spearmint. it does have that characteristic widespread nature. in some areas where it grows wild, you can find it right at your doorstep. it is considered a weed by some but it has plenty of magical properties that may lead you to believe in its usefulness!
Henbit gets its name from the fact chickens ADORE it! it is an annual winter-spring broadleaf commonly found in North America. it is native to the Mediterranean but it can grow in any ideal climate! its also regarded as a harmless invader. while not native to America, it doesn't threaten local ecosystems at all!! its low to the ground and doesn't suffocate fellow plants! what an admirable little plant! it is quite attractive to hummingbirds and bees. it self-pollinates as well! one single plant can produce up to 2,000 seeds!! not to mention, its edible! the leave and flowers make a great addition to salads and baked goods!! it has a flavor similar to spinach and can be eaten raw or cooked! it grows best in wasteland and cleared areas that have been scorched. its been used medicinally as a fever-reducer! photo below pictures the North American locations for henbit deadnettle!
Henbit Deadnettle is often confused for Purple Deadnettle. they look very similar, however the purple deadnettle’s leaves at the top of the stems are purple-tinged and fade to green as they mature. the henbit deadnettle also has pink to purple slender flowers and half-circle leaves compared to the purple deadnettle’s purple flowers and heart-shaped leaves! (see the picture)
now that we know a bit about the plant, lets delve into its magical properties!
beauty
harmony
attraction
spirit world
motivation
ambition
integration
peace
hope
rising up from the ashes
inner healing
fertility
prosperity
money
abundance
cool tempers
soften blows
strength
apologies
social anxiety
fun ways to use them!
make a bouquet with spring roses, wild violets, clover flowers, dandelions etc. for Beltane or Ostara.
put into spell jars or poppets for the wanted effects.
simmer into a syrup or add to lemonade!
add to money bowls to attract abundance.
bake them into cookies and other baked goods!
add them to salads for a sabbat feast.
use in an offering to deities.
carry on your person when entering a new friend group, coven, job or social situation for a smooth transition.
carry on your person when going into a surgery or procedure for a smooth and easy transition!
dry them and add them to candles, potions, even make incense with them!
braid them into your hair.
make a flower crown!
make a hair oil or tonic with them inside!