Mythology
Gods: Represents the Triple Goddess in her death aspect (Persephone, Hera, Hecate
in Greek mythology)
Lore: sacred to poets and travellers, willow is lucky to carry as a rod when travelling
and a branch bearing catkins
in the home brings luck. However, willow is unlucky
to burn as fuel, hence ‘burn not the willow’.
Associations: Seile is strongly associated with the Moon Goddess,
providing dew and moisture.
‘the moon owns it’ wicker/ wicked/ witch, weeping willow, crack
willow,
willow wand, sallow leaf spear. Associated bird is wryneck (snakebird)
mourning, funerals. If forsaken in love, wear the willow wand...
Botanical
Root: salix (latin) helice (greek)
Sap: as drink to clear vision;
Wood: baskets, beehives, lobster pots, pegs,
floats, fencing. artists charcoal, artificial limbs. osier beds. coppicing;
Seeds: have feathery down, used for stuffing
mattresses;
Bark: mixes with oatmeal for food, treats
wounds, source of aspirin tanning, for twine.;
Leaves and bark: source of salicylic acid;
Medicinal: aspirin, treats arthritis, pain
relief, fever, rheumatism,
headache
Bach flower: treats dissatisfaction, complaining,
whining
|