- Latin name
- Allium sativum
- Element
- fire
- Planet
- Mars
- Safe to eat?
- Yes, in normal kitchen amounts
How to use it
- Hang a braid of bulbs in the kitchen for protection
- Leave a clove at a crossroads as an offering to Hecate
- Cook with it for health and strength
- Place a clove by the door to ward off ill wishes
Lore
In ancient Greece garlic was among the foods left at crossroads as Hecate's suppers. Across Europe it was hung in homes against evil, a belief later made famous in vampire stories.
Safety
Safe in cooking. Large amounts or supplements may increase bleeding, so take care with blood thinners and before surgery. Raw garlic can burn skin if left on it. Garlic is toxic to cats and dogs, so keep it away from pets.
Gods linked with it
- Hecate Keeper of crossroads and keys
More fire herbs
- Rosemary Salvia rosmarinus
- Peppermint Mentha x piperita
- Calendula Calendula officinalis
- Bay Laurel Laurus nobilis
- Basil Ocimum basilicum
- Cinnamon Cinnamomum verum
- Juniper Juniperus communis
- Rowan Sorbus aucuparia