Plant Witchery: Discover the Sacred Language, Wisdom, and Magic of 200 Plants - Juliet Diaz 2020

Orchid Orchidaceae
A Compendium of Plants

ESSENTIAL PROPERTIES

love, protection

This widespread family of flowers can vary so much in appearance, and yet they are always recognizable. In Greek mythology, Orchis is the son of a satyr and a nymph—and like many Greek gods, he wasn’t a particularly good guy. During Bacchus celebration, he attempted to rape a priestess and was sentenced to death. His father prayed for his release, and Orchis was reprieved, sort of: He was granted eternal life as the orchid root.

MEDICINAL PROPERTIES

In Chinese medicine, the dendrobium orchid is used to strengthen the immune system and improve eyesight. In Turkey, the roots of salep orchids are made into a drink that can cure a sore throat and calm digestion. And orchids in general, but vanilla in particular, can serve as an aphrodisiac. They can also reduce fever and stress.

MAGICAL PROPERTIES

Don’t let orchids fool you; they are beautiful but mighty beings. They protect the home from other realms, and they screech at the sight of imposters. If you look closely at the orchid, you will notice her gentle beauty, but also her fierce little face in the center—that tiny face wards off evil. Orchids are great to place in the center of the home, perhaps in the living room. They will direct all the protective energy, flowing it throughout the home. But be careful, because they expect love in return. You need to know how to care for them and keep them happy and thriving in order for them to do their thing.

I often work with orchids when I’m channeling to keep me safe from ill-willed spirits. You can place them on an altar during thunderstorms to bring that energy into your spellwork that day, amplifying your power. And you may want to have orchids in your sacred space, or even where you work out—they will keep you present in your body, motivating you to finish your workout or your practice.

PLANT WISDOM

Orchids bring a message of willpower and fierceness. They are mighty coaches who motivate your spirit and push your negative mind out of the way so that you can get things done. Dreaming of orchids symbolizes an internal battle, so if you meet an orchid in the dreamworld, make an effort to get out more often, meditate, and generally work to heal the mind.