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

Althaea officinalis
A Compendium of Plants

ESSENTIAL PROPERTIES

healing, psychic ability

Also known as marshmallow, althaea’s blossoms are light, fluffy, and white—hence the name of that puffy thing we put in s’mores. In fact, marshmallows used to be made with eggs, sugar, and the roots of the althaea. Althaea grows in marshes or along the banks of rivers, and prefers moist, sandy soil.

MEDICINAL PROPERTIES

Althaea was considered one of the most important healing herbs in ancient Greece—dubbed “the healer.” The root is nutritious and contains a great deal of fiber, making it good for digestive issues. Althaea can soothe a cough or cold, help a sore throat, and calm skin irritations. Today she is a common ingredient in cosmetic treatments.

MAGICAL PROPERTIES

Althaea is a welcoming plant—she attracts benevolent spirits to the home. You can simply place her on your altar, asking her to allow spirits with good intentions into your space for guidance. Make sure to keep a glass of water next to her, as this helps keep the spirits there, not wandering off into the rest of your home. It is also important to burn dried althaea with a resin such as copal, myrrh, or frankincense—this will give you protection when working with these spirits, while at the same time increasing your psychic abilities. When I go to cleanse someone’s home or space, I place some dried althaea in my hair, which I always wear up in a bun when I do work. Carry her with you for protection.

PLANT WISDOM

When althaea shows up in a dream, chances are you will either be watching her burn or floating in water. These are the only two examples I’ve gathered in my research with Indigenous peoples and interviews with other plant whisperers. She shows up alongside fire to warn of danger, evil, or bad intentions lurking in your home. When she appears with water, she is healing you. She has attached herself to your spirit, and wants to work with you in healing your old traumas.

Plant althaea at the corners of your home or property for protection and to keep out evil. She also invites the good spirits to help protect the home. Her comforting presence can make your home a happier, more peaceful place.