Apothecary
Garlic.
Allium sativum
Also known as Ajo, Stinkweed, Poor Man's Treacle
The most universal protective herb on earth — known in every culture, named in every grimoire, hung in every kitchen from the Mediterranean to Mongolia. There is no spirit, hex, or illness that has not at some point been turned aside by a single white bulb braided beside the hearth.
Correspondences
Element
Fire
Planet
Mars
Zodiac
Aries, Scorpio
Chakra
Root
Parts Used
Bulb, cloves
Harvest
Year-round
Origin
Worldwide
Moon Phases
New
Practice
Magical Properties
Protection, exorcism, healing, strength, anti-theft
Hang garlic braids in the kitchen for protection from evil and illness. Place garlic at the corners of a property for protection. Rub garlic on doors and windows to banish evil.
Mundane
Mundane Uses
Potent antimicrobial, cardiovascular support, immune-stimulating. Allicin is the key active compound.
Devotion
Deity Associations
Hecate, Mars
History
Folklore & History
The most universal protective herb across cultures. Homer mentions it in the Odyssey. Magical in virtually every tradition worldwide.
Safety
Safety Notes
Generally safe. May interact with blood-thinning medications in large amounts.
This information is provided for educational and magical reference only. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using herbs medicinally.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Garlic used for in witchcraft?
Garlic is traditionally used in workings for protection, exorcism, healing, strength, anti-theft. Hang garlic braids in the kitchen for protection from evil and illness.
What element is Garlic associated with?
Garlic is associated with the Fire element and the sign of Aries, Scorpio, and resonates with the Root chakra.
What planet rules Garlic?
Garlic is ruled by Mars. In the classical planetary system, this gives the herb its characteristic energetic signature and indicates which workings it most readily amplifies and which planetary hours best suit it.
Is Garlic safe to use?
Some care is required when working with Garlic. Generally safe. May interact with blood-thinning medications in large amounts. The information here is provided for educational and magical reference only — always consult a qualified practitioner before using any herb medicinally.
In Your Practice
Track your work with Garlic.
Record spells, rituals, and observations in your private digital grimoire.
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