![]() Its main function was as a protective talisman, kept in the home, where regular offerings are made to the physical vessel. ![]() In this context it is synonymous with the alchemical homunculi, the Mandragore and the Alraun. Magistellus– is a term used in classical withcraft to refer to the familiar spirit. Mastering Herbalism, is another book by Huson that is highly recommended for anyone interested in traditional herbal magic. Paul Huson is a well-known writer on the topic of historical witchcraft practices. One of the foundational texts outlining traditional witchcraft as specifically practiciced in the UK. They are often stored in a coffin-like box, which is stored in a secret place, as the Mannakin should always remain unseen. The fetish and its spirit were often passed down through the generations maintaining the original spirit contract The Mannakin acts as a spirit familiar, protector and teacher. The vessel is known as a Mannakin, Mandragore or Alraun Ritual preparations are made to bring the spirit into the fetish, and regular offerings are made to keep in active. The body of the root acts as a vessel for the spirit. Bryony, Thistle and even some tree roots. Either naturally anthropomorphic or carved to resemble and androgynous figure.Ĭommon roots used are Dandelion. ![]() In Northern Traditions any root of appropriate size and shape may be used. In the Germanic language words alraune, alruna, or alrune are synonymous with witch and witchcraft.Īlraundeberen– Alraun-bearer: became synonymous with accusations of witchcraft, and possession of such an object carried a death sentence by the 16th century.Īlruna– is the name of a Valkyrie in Norse tradition, related to the Crossroads. The Mandrake gained an infamous reputation in connection to magic and witchcraft from medieval herbalists, combining its Greco-Roman mythology with existing plant traditions.Īlraun– is an old Germanic term, originally of Celtic origins relating to the word “rune,” it refers to mystery and magic. In the Middle Ages it was thought that these root fetishes were given to Witches by the Devil to aid them in their Working. Originally in Northern Traditions the Alraun would have referred to any root with a humanoid shape. Much of the lore surrounding the use of the Mandrake in the creation of the Homunculus or plant spirit familiar comes from the Middle Ages The use of magical roots carved into humanoid shapes to house spirits may have originated in Northern Europe in the form of the AlraunĬombining medieval alchemical concepts of the Homunculus with the mythology of the Mandrake and its Germanic counterpart the Alraun The earliest records of the sponges were found as far back as Ancient Egypt. When ready for use the moistened sponge was placed beneath the nose of the patient and inhaled to benefit from its anesthetic effects. The volatile liquids of the plants were soaked up by small sponges to store the liquid once it dried. ![]() Records found in Benedictine monastery from the 9th century document continued medical use.Īn ancient form of anesthetic that utilized the inebriating and pain relieving effects of plants like Mandrake and Henbane along with opium and other ingredients. It was also given to crucifixion victims to ease their suffering, and thereby prolong their death.Įarlier knowledge of these plants were preserved in Christian monasteries Small amounts of the plant were taken before battle as stimulants Manfred Ruckszio.Īncient Romans knew the plant as Morion and were well aware of its pain relieving and anesthetic qualities. It was said to have grown from the fluid that spilled from Prometheus’ liver.ĭioscorides in his famous 1st century materia medica outlines the plant’s uses in surgery, based on its sleep-inducing properties. Greek Mythology places this plant in the mythic gardens of Hecate, Circe and Medea. It was believed to glow at night with an otherworldly flame Hebrew and Arabic names for the plant refer to it as “the burning,” or Devil’s Lamp It was said that King Solomon wore a portion of the root in his ring to give him power over djinn. The plant is also mentioned in the Old Testament in the Book of Genesis, and the Song of Solomon An infamous herb of ancient origins, some of the earliest accounts from ancient Mesopotamia date back as far as 2000 BCE. ![]()
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