Plant Magic by Dr. Greg J Kenicer
An informative and entertaining look at why plants have been used in magic and what that tells us about people and plants in a post-magic world.
With chapters on subjects as diverse as Witchcraft, Curses and Blessings, Divination, the Plants of Faery, Hallucinogens, Divine Plants in the Christian and Pagan traditions and a Plant Bestiary, Greg Kenicer’s book is an erudite and informative look at how and why various plants have had a role in Europe’s supernatural and magical traditions.
Individual entries look at particular plants combining botanical analysis with historical examples and anecdote to explain exactly why each plant came to be used in this way. Considerations of dangers and actual efficacy cast light on how modern science is now re-examining the uses of many of the plants and how the evolution of the plants themselves has been influenced by our use of them.
Whether Foxglove or Mandrake, Hawthorn or Aspen, Rowan or Oak, St. John’s Wort or Bird Cherry, Plant Magic shines a bright and fascinating new light on dozens of familiar plants.
Dr. Greg J Kenicer is the author of Plant Magic. He is also a botanist and a lecturer at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. He is an expert in the evolution and diversity of peas and beans but the fantastical relationship between plants and people is where his heart really lies.
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This is such a beautiful little book. First of all the cover is stunning and really embodies the feel of what the author is trying to present to us. I showed this book to my mother-in-law, who is the gardener in our house, and she devoured each and every page! She loved it and so did I even though I am only beginning to learn about plants. This is a really handy tool to learn the basics about all the native plants in Scotland!
I really enjoyed finding out about the history of all the plants and whether it was used in traditional healing or witchcraft. It’s obvious plants have just healing qualities and hopefully modern medicine will take note of this more.
This would make a great wee present at Christmas for those in your family who love gardening. It’s just a stunning book!
