Apothecary
Plantain (Ribwort).
Plantago lanceolata
Also known as Ribwort, English Plantain, Snake Weed
The first of the Nine Sacred Herbs of Anglo-Saxon healing — a small ribbed leaf that grows wherever the foot has trodden. Plantain is healing in its most patient form: the green poultice that meets every wound with quiet competence.
Correspondences
Element
Earth
Planet
Venus
Zodiac
Virgo
Chakra
Root
Parts Used
Leaves, seeds
Harvest
Spring to autumn
Origin
Lawns
Moon Phases
Waning
Practice
Magical Properties
Healing, protection, strength, snake magic
One of the nine sacred healing herbs of Anglo-Saxon tradition. Place fresh leaves on wounds for wound healing. Carry for protection.
Mundane
Mundane Uses
Anti-inflammatory, antitussive, wound-healing. Contains aucubin and allantoin.
Devotion
Deity Associations
None specific
History
Folklore & History
Called 'waybread' in Anglo-Saxon and listed as the first of the Nine Sacred Herbs in the Lacnunga manuscript. Called 'the footprint of the white man' by Native Americans.
Safety
Safety Notes
Generally safe. One of the most benign healing herbs.
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 Plantain (Ribwort) used for in witchcraft?
Plantain (Ribwort) is traditionally used in workings for healing, protection, strength, snake magic. One of the nine sacred healing herbs of Anglo-Saxon tradition.
What element is Plantain (Ribwort) associated with?
Plantain (Ribwort) is associated with the Earth element and the sign of Virgo, and resonates with the Root chakra.
What planet rules Plantain (Ribwort)?
Plantain (Ribwort) is ruled by Venus. 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 Plantain (Ribwort) safe to use?
Some care is required when working with Plantain (Ribwort). Generally safe. One of the most benign healing herbs. 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 Plantain (Ribwort).
Record spells, rituals, and observations in your private digital grimoire.
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