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

Peony Paeonia
A Compendium of Plants

ESSENTIAL PROPERTIES

protection, abundance, opening the door between realms

These incredible puffball flowers are so packed with petals they seem to be bursting. It is thought that the peony’s name comes from Paeon, the Greek physician of the gods, who healed Ares and Hades with his herbal remedies. There is a superstition that says that you must be careful while picking peony fruits, or a woodpecker might peck out your eyes.

MEDICINAL PROPERTIES

While the leaves and flowers of the peony aren’t typically eaten as they can cause nausea, the roots were frequently used in Asian cooking, so much so that Confucius supposedly said, “I eat nothing without its sauce.” The roots of the peony are prized in Chinese medicine for their wound-healing qualities. Peony root is also calming, making it a good treatment for cough, nerve pain, and headaches. Peony can also be used to treat menstrual pain, and may be given to ensure a healthy pregnancy—but be careful and do your research, as dosages can be tricky.

MAGICAL PROPERTIES

Peony is truly special. When cared for properly, she will grow for a hundred years or more, making her a powerful support for any spellwork dealing with longevity. You can also incorporate her into any kind of spell you want to make sure will last for a long time. For this kind of Magic, use the root or seeds.

Peony is also great for stability, grounding, and protection spells. She wants us to work smarter, not harder. When you need to slow down and get organized, peony is your gal. I especially love to add the root and flower to my baths whenever I feel I need to ground myself—when mixed with the water, they fill me with a calm, blissful feeling. For protection, take peony seeds and place them on each side of your front door, or in the corners of the room—I often place peony seeds in the corners of my kids’ bedrooms.

PLANT WISDOM

Peony wants to help you connect with your ancestors, as she understands the importance of knowledge passed down over time. You can make a tea of peony by bringing some water to a boil and steeping the petals and root for 10 to 15 minutes. Place this tea on your altar as an offering and a gateway—she will invite them in, creating a safe space for communication. If peony appears in your dreams, that means good fortune is on its way.