The Herb Gardenia
Written By Juniper (Specialized Writer in this section)
Not only is Gardenia one of the most sweetest smelling flowers, it is also a common healing spell ingredient.
Gardenia (Gardenia Jasminoides) is a feminine plant who falls under the planet Moon. It its element is water and it is known for its powers of love, peace, healing and spirituality.
Magical Uses:
Fresh blossoms are often placed in sickrooms or on healing altars. The dried petals can be added to healing incenses and mixtures.
You can also scatter dried Gardenia petals around a room to achieve peace. Gardenias are frequently used in love spells and to attract good spirits during rituals. There is a handfasting oil that contains Gardenia that is given to the Witch couple on the eve of their handfasting for peace and harmony.
Medical Uses:
There are few medical uses for Gardenia today. However, certain cultures have been known to use Gardenia for jaundice, hemorrhage, hepatitis, toothaches, wounds, sprains and skin conditions.
Growing Guidelines:
Gardenia plants like humid conditions and should be planted in full son to partial shade. The soil must be kept moist.
The best time to plant a Gardenia is during Spring and Summer.
References: Cunningham, Scott; Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, pg 122.
Cunningham, Scott; Magical Herbalism, pg 105.
Hutchison, Frances, Ed.; Encyclopedia of Herb Gardening, pg 216.