Witchy Wednesdays - Ash
Witchy Wednesdays - Ash The ash tree simply known as ash is a name for around 60-65 species of deciduous tree, native to Europe and the Americas as well as parts of Asia. The seeds which it gives are known as keys or Helicopter seeds and the leaves are opposite along the stem in bunches of three. The hardwood coming from the tree is highly prized and often used for sports equipment. The tree's common English name, "ash", traces back to the Old English æsc, while the generic name originated in Latin. Both words also mean "spear" in their respective languages. The first humans of Norse Lore were Ask and Embla. Ask from the old Norse askr "ash tree" in Norse mythology is seen as the world tree Yggdrasil or Cosmic Ash. In 19th Century England and France. If a person had fever or toothache, they buried their fingernail and toenail clippings under an Ash tree because they believed it would help cure the ailment. Ash bark can make an infusion that is a mild laxative and diuretic. The root bark is the most potent, and was used to treat liver diseases and arthritic rheumatism. Other uses include reduce fever, treat kidney and urinary infections, expel intestinal parasites, and treating malaria. Boil 1 teaspoon full in 250ml of water and infuse for 3 mins drinking 3 times daily as a medicinal drink. The ash exudes a sugary substance that is suggested to have been fermented to create the Norse Mead of Inspiration.Irish folklore claims that shadows from an ash tree would damage crops. In Cheshire, ash was said to be used to cure warts and rickets. In Sussex, the ash tree and the elm tree were known as "Widow makers" because large boughs would often drop without warning. Magickally Ash is a good wood to use for wands, staves and besom handles. It has a nice grain, it's sturdy and its reputation as a lightening magnet demonstrates that it is a good attractor and conductor of energy. Sleep with ash leaves under your pillow to received prophetic dreams. Carry a leaf of ash in your pocket for good luck. Ash wood was used for the traditional handle of the besom broom. Druid wands were often made of ash because of its straight grain, and the poles of witches' brooms were often made of ash and was representative of protection and strength. Ash, Oak and Hawthorn make up the triad of powerful faery trees. If you stand in the shadow of an Ash, the fae will leave you alone. Put Ash berries in a baby's crib and the fae will not steal it and leave a changeling in its place.
