Apothecary
Henbane.
Hyoscyamus niger
Also known as Stinking Nightshade, Hog's Bean, Devil's Eye
A herb of legends — Devil's Eye, classic ingredient of the witches' flying ointment, possible smoke of the Delphic Oracle herself. Henbane is for the practitioner of the Underworld, for those who walk where most will not go; it must never be ingested, only studied with the deepest respect.
Correspondences
Element
Water
Planet
Saturn
Zodiac
Gemini, Scorpio
Chakra
Root
Parts Used
Seeds, leaves
Harvest
Summer
Practice
Magical Properties
Underworld work, prophecy, spirit contact
HIGHLY TOXIC — for study and knowledge only. Historically associated with witches' flying ointments, oracle work, and necromancy. Use symbolically by placing a pressed sprig safely enclosed on the altar.
Mundane
Mundane Uses
Historically used as an anaesthetic and painkiller. Scopolamine and hyoscyamine are active compounds.
Devotion
Deity Associations
Hecate, Circe, Bellona
History
Folklore & History
One of the classic witches' herbs. The Oracle at Delphi may have burned henbane seeds to induce prophetic trances. Shakespeare's Hamlet was poisoned with henbane poured in his ear.
Safety
Safety Notes
EXTREMELY TOXIC. ALL PARTS DANGEROUS. Causes hallucinations, delirium, respiratory failure, and death. DO NOT USE MEDICINALLY OR INTERNALLY. Handle with care. Keep away from children and animals.
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 Henbane used for in witchcraft?
Henbane is traditionally used in workings for underworld work, prophecy, spirit contact. HIGHLY TOXIC — for study and knowledge only.
What element is Henbane associated with?
Henbane is associated with the Water element and the sign of Gemini, Scorpio, and resonates with the Root chakra.
What planet rules Henbane?
Henbane is ruled by Saturn. 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 Henbane safe to use?
Some care is required when working with Henbane. EXTREMELY TOXIC. ALL PARTS DANGEROUS. Causes hallucinations, delirium, respiratory failure, and death. DO NOT USE MEDICINALLY OR INTERNALLY. Handle with care. Keep away from children and animals. 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 Henbane.
Record spells, rituals, and observations in your private digital grimoire.
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