Apothecary
Willow.
Salix alba / Salix babylonica
Also known as White Willow, Weeping Willow, Osier
The tree of the moon, the tree of grief, the tree at the edge of the river of the dead. Willow's silvered leaves and weeping branches lend their quiet sorrow-magic to every working of remembrance, healing, and the long water-paths of the soul.
Correspondences
Element
Water
Planet
Moon
Zodiac
Cancer, Pisces, Scorpio
Chakra
Sacral, Crown
Parts Used
Bark, leaves, catkins
Harvest
Spring
Origin
Wetlands
Moon Phases
New/Waning
Practice
Magical Properties
Love, healing, protection, grief, the Otherworld, death and rebirth
Willow is the tree of the Moon and grief. Use in moon magic and all water-element workings. Carry willow for healing grief. Place at Samhain altars for connection to the ancestors.
Mundane
Mundane Uses
Bark contains salicin — the original source of aspirin. Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic.
Devotion
Deity Associations
Hecate, Persephone, Artemis, Ceres
History
Folklore & History
Abandoned lovers traditionally wore sprigs of willow. The willow is the fifth letter of the Ogham tree alphabet (Saille). Orpheus carried willow branches when he descended to the Underworld.
Safety
Safety Notes
Avoid with aspirin allergy or salicylate sensitivity. Avoid in children with viral illness.
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 Willow used for in witchcraft?
Willow is traditionally used in workings for love, healing, protection, grief, the otherworld, death and rebirth. Willow is the tree of the Moon and grief.
What element is Willow associated with?
Willow is associated with the Water element and the sign of Cancer, Pisces, Scorpio, and resonates with the Sacral, Crown chakras.
What planet rules Willow?
Willow is ruled by Moon. 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 Willow safe to use?
Some care is required when working with Willow. Avoid with aspirin allergy or salicylate sensitivity. Avoid in children with viral illness. 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 Willow.
Record spells, rituals, and observations in your private digital grimoire.
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