Monkshood is a wildflower native to Europe and parts of Asia. It is a perennial wildflower with dark green, palmate leaves that grows to about 3 feet/1 meter tall and produces dark purple to bluish hood-like flowers in spiky clusters from early to mid summer.
Monkshood is a member of the aconite family.
Scientific Name: Aconitum napellus
Other names: Blue Rocket, Friar’s Cap, Auld Wife’s Huid, Old Wife’s Head, Monk’s Blood, Helmet Flower, Wolfsbane
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Monkshood, also known as Aconitum, has a rich history in folklore, dating back centuries, and has been associated with both healing and poison.
This plant has striking blue-purple flowers and thrives in cool, mountainous regions with well-drained soil.
In magical and spiritual practices, Monkshood is believed to have protective qualities, warding off evil spirits and negative energies.
However, caution is necessary when handling Monkshood, as it contains potent toxins that can be deadly if ingested or applied to the skin.
Contents
History and Folklore
Monkshood was used historically to poison arrows and spears for hunting and battle.
| Folklore Story | Description |
|---|---|
| Poisonous Reputation | Monkshood’s association with witches and poison |
| Werewolf Protection | Use of Monkshood to ward off werewolves |
| Medieval Medicinal Use | Historical medicinal practices involving Monkshood |
| Symbolic Representations | Cultural symbols and meanings associated with Monkshood |
Growing Monkshood
Monkshood will grow in full to partial sun in zones 3-7. It likes average, moist soil and will not tolerate “wet feet”. Since monkshood resents being transplanted, it is best started from seed in the spring, but be aware that it tends to be quite slow to germinate.
Magical and Spiritual Considerations
Aconite has feminine energy and is aligned with the planet Saturn and the water element.
| Magical Purpose | Description |
|---|---|
| Protection | Utilizing Monkshood for spiritual or energetic protection |
| Banishing Negative Energy | Clearing spaces and removing unwanted influences |
| Enhancing Intuition | Tapping into psychic abilities and intuition |
| Ritual and Spellwork | Incorporating Monkshood in magical rituals and spells |
It is used in spells related to protection and invisibility. An infusion of aconite can be sprinkled on ritual items during rituals to charge them with protective energy and the roots and leaves can be burned in a ritual fire for the same purpose. Use caution not to ingest or inhale the fumes!
Monkshood is associated with Hecate and Medea.
Spiritual Considerations of Monkshood
| Spiritual Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Transformation | Symbolizing personal growth and spiritual transformation |
| Meditation Aid | Using Monkshood for deepening meditation practices |
| Connection to Spirit World | Facilitating communication with the spiritual realm |
| Inner Healing | Healing emotional wounds and promoting inner peace |
Cautionary Notes
All aconite is poisonous and should not be ingested, nor should the fumes be inhaled.
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