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

Poinsettia Euphorbia pulcherrima
A Compendium of Plants

ESSENTIAL PROPERTIES

faith, wishes

Poinsettias are Indigenous to Central America, and can particularly be found in an area of southern Mexico known as Taxco del Alarcón, where they flower during the winter months. Ancient Aztecs called them cuetlaxochitl, but of course we associate them with the Christmas season, when poinsettias can be found in every grocery, florist, and garden store. And for good reason: The poinsettia symbolizes the return of the Sun after the winter solstice, and the promise of the coming of spring and new life.

MEDICINAL PROPERTIES

Contrary to popular belief, while mildly toxic, poinsettias are not, in fact, lethal to animals and humans. However, to consume them will frequently bring on nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, so best not to. That said, sometimes the plant’s latex (her sap) is taken to kill bacteria and pain, and some work with the whole plant to treat fever and stimulate breast milk production.

MAGICAL PROPERTIES

Do you believe in wishes? I do. Take one of poinsettia’s petals and make a wish, then place it in the snow. If it doesn’t snow where you live, you can bury the petal in the winter ground. Your wish will grow to blossom in the spring.

PLANT WISDOM

Poinsettia has a rich history with a variety of religions and cultures—which makes sense, as she is the embodiment of faith, prayer, and devotion. I often feel that we lack devotion—we get so caught up in our daily lives that spiritual work gets pushed to the side. Poinsettia teaches that even our daily lives can be spiritual, as long as we are mindful and present. She is a guide, a spiritual counselor of sorts; work with her during the winter months particularly, when we turn inward and the world casts shadows. She is able to thin the veil between you and the spirit world, allowing you to tap into it and be heard, while still remaining safe. When you feel you have lost faith in yourself or the world, when you feel your prayers aren’t being answered, when you feel like Magic isn’t what you thought it was, or whether you’re not sure whether Magic is even real—and yes, we all go through this from time to time—poinsettia will clear the fog of doubt.

Dreaming of poinsettia can mean that angels are speaking to you, offering a divine message—so pay attention!