A look back into the dark ages and the lives of the pagan Anglo-Saxon

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Bramble


Blackberry/Bramble Genus:Rubus

bramble

The bramble or blackberry bush has been attributed with various magical abilities long before Anglo-Saxon times. Passing through blackberry brambles was said to reduce swelling, get rid of warts, and rid one of unwanted wights. Blackberry tea was used for "flux in women" used over three days whilst fasting. For "heart-ache" the fresh leaves were pounded and laid over on the wound.It was even said to be effective against evil witches. If you were to dream of getting cut when going through a blackberry bush, meant an unknown foe was trying to hurt you, but if you make it through unscathed, you were to win against him/her.

Blackberries contain tannic acid and therefore make a good natural dye (giving anywhere from a violet to deep purple coloring).