herbs associated with medusa
When using an idol or agalma for Medusa I like to see at least a few of the snakes turned toward the viewer, hissing threateningly, although this isnt a deal breaker. Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions. Take the Evil Eye charm and fumigate it in the incense. You can simply offer her a devotional candle or a seashell. Thyrsus, a fennel staff with a pine cone at the top end, is the most common Dionysus symbol while other symbols of Dionysus include kantharos, the Greek drinking cups, grapevines/grapes, panthers and bulls. In the British writer Iris Murdochs novel A Severed Head (1961), the heroine is a Medusa figure. According to author Jane Ellen Harrison, Medusas power came from her head and anyone who carried it gained that power. She was a beautiful maiden with golden hair. Their bodies are covered in scales and they have large, round heads with snakes sprouting from them instead of hair. Fans of Percy Jackson & the Olympians will find that she pops up in both the original book and the film based on the book. Many artists made Medusa into a work of art. This account comes specifically from the Roman poet Ovid in his work Metamorphoses, told at the end of the story of Perseus. Like Ambrosia, Dionysus honored Ampelos by transforming him into a grapevine so that he could live forever. Still, either way, she bragged of her superiority to his wife, Persephone. Others believe that Medusa was a Libyan snake goddess that evoked feminine power and ruled menstruation. The two Gods lay with each other in soft meadows among spring flowers. In my practice it also paralyzes the Evil Eye and any malicious intentions sent against me, rendering them useless. Athena took things a step further. When Elana Dkyewomon released a series of poems and short stories written by and for lesbians, she chose the Gorgon for the cover. The next symbola I use are Her snakes. During the 20th century, many looked at the tale of Medusa and how it relates to feminism. Some historians believe that the story of Medusa has some basis in fact. Read about Medusa in literature. While Medusa once had soft and supple white skin, it turned green. She wanted to show the Gorgons head in a different way. Modern literary experts also point to the legend as one of the first times in history when men blamed a victim for her rape. A loving priestess to his sister Athena, Poseidon sought the goddess Medusa while she was praying in Athenas temple and violated her. What are some things or symbols that can be associated with reading? He explained that when a man saw something frightening such as a naked woman, he associated it with his mother because it was his first experience with the female form. Medusa is now accepted as a symbol of female empowerment, divine rage, and justice. Medusa is one of the most famous characters of Greek mythology. This probably means that youreally feel like the outcast in some way (not necessarily social or political but on a deep, personal, soul level). Then I moved to a beautiful large wall plaque that I currently use, although eventually I will sculpt one that will be enthroned in a shrine. Herodotus the historian said her home was Libya. May I ask is it safe for me? Much less, if any man did, then he would be instantly turned into a statue and doomed to an eternity in stone. There are many herbs associated with Hecate, including mugwort, rue, hyssop, marjoram, fennel, thyme, rosemary, sage, lavender, wormwood, and dill. Though most of you probably know all about Medusastypical appearance (the head full of snakes), there are a few variations on Medusas appearance in lore. Demeter responded by turning the boy into a lizard by sprinkling the drink upon him. Medusas Head euphorbia is suitable for growing outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9b through 11. Athena responded by creating the first olive tree. Hope you found the article useful, please comment below! They were created by Aphrodite in her grief upon finding the body of her human lover, Adonis. Some were previously gods and goddesses, some humans, and some sprung from even more surprising sources! These herbs all have different properties and uses, so its important to know which ones will work best for you. In another popular myth about the story of Medusa, the so-called hero Perseus was sent to slay Medusa. Crocus was later accidentally killed by him when they were playing discus. WebA gentle yet effective herb, Chamomile provides a sense of calm and can help soothe the nervous system. Hera and Athenas vengeance for this slight led directly to the Trojan War. Do this, Goddess, and I will serve You as Your station demands! A Roman cameo from the second or third century contains her head. However, be really for some kind of intense imagery: Medusa isnt for the faint of heart! She has been described by the Poet Ovid as having a beautiful face and long, flowing hair. Sicily uses both Medusa and the trinacria on its flag. Myrrha went to him and slept with him, and became pregnant. She is not to be pitied, but adored. 20 Important Plants and Flowers in Greek Mythology, Important Plants and Flowers in Greek Myth, 11 Important Types of Nymph in Greek Mythology, 25 Facts About Isis from Egyptian Mythology. The two had three daughters, including Euryale and Stheno. Early artwork depicted both Medusa and her sisters as gruesome creatures capable of frightening any man. At Her shrine, at Night, I will light a black candle and incense, having as little light as needed to perform the spell. 3. Euphorbia requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day and You can connect to Medusa on a deeper level by meditating near the beach or a body of water encircled with calming sounds. She gained Her immortality being placed on the aegis of Athena, and is now the most recognizable symbol of the ancient world. She is less spiritual and more physical so it isnt something you should want to utilize internally. Your email address will not be published. She claimed that Medusa was the only real Gorgon and that her sisters were mere additions to her story. Zeus intervened before it could turn into too much of a fight, and they were sent the human, Paris. In almost every version of the Medusa myth, King Polydectes of. Omissions? However, its important to note thatearlier myths of Medusa (such as that told by Homer) actually have no mention of Athena at all. Aside from this, some things I associate and use with Medusa are malachite (as my Gorgons Eye stone), serpentine, snakeskin jasper, coral, whole raw eggs, petrified wood, fossils, any snake materials especially from vipers, bronze, Evil Eye charms, herbs such as wormwood, black snake root, serpentine root, poplar, bittersweet nightshade*, datura*, belladonna*, henbane*, sulfur, rat or pest poison*, parsley, spring flowers, boar tusk, basically anything that is used to remove the Evil Eye, protect, or curse enemies, especially poisons that cause paralysis.I hope this helps add to your practice, and clarify some of the things I do with monstrous Gods such as Medusa. Herodotus found some evidence that she appeared in Berber mythology where she was a major part of their religion. To start, Her gaze is indeed important and probably the primary symbola I work with. Hermes was distraught and reunited Crocus and Smilax by turning Crocus into a flower. When Perseus arrived, he forced her to look into the shield and see her reflection, which turned her to stone. Her domain encompasses all bodies of water, and her rage is as powerful as the most ravenous hurricane. All she asks is that you become the best and most powerful version of yourself. Medusa by Caravaggio has its base in the form of a shield. On the bottom of the vessel draw a Gorgoneion and around it write I protect NN. Let it be as You so all my enemies are petrified by the sight of Your gaze! Legend claims the was a giant who carried a golden sword. There are many stories and interpretations of the Gorgon Medusa from Greek mythology and later years. Connect with Medusas element, water, by performing a ritual bath or something of the like. They point out that she was a beautiful woman who turned into a monster but that all anyone remembers is that she is a monster. In this version, Medusa has always been a Gorgon, one of three sisters, daughters of the Gods Phorkys and Keto (Who is sometimes considered the Sea aspect of Hekate), but the only one born mortal. Poseidon tempted her into having sexual intercourse with him in a temple to Athena. Come, rise from the Hellish Pit on swift wing and turn to me Your petrifying gaze so You may witness this rite! Medusa comes to those who are in need, so she doesnt expect a totally decked-out altar from her followers. The flag and emblem of Sicily also features her head. If you have been seeing the symbols of Goddess Medusa and hearing the whispers, then this is your call to action. They can be applied to the pulse points and worn as a perfume or cologne or used to anoint the body before a ritual or ceremony. Because of this, some may argue that Athena didnt know what she was doing in giving away that shield. I have practised witchcraft before in great respect always. Medusa was the only Gorgon who was mortal; hence her slayer, Perseus, was able to kill her by cutting off her head. Most ancient iconography of Medusa features an open mouth with fangs or tusks. It is just MY way. The Gorgons lived at the ocean, and Medusa caught Poseidons attention. Through this shield, Perseus was able to see Medusa through her reflection, which ultimately allowed him the opportunity to approach Medusa and slice through her neck. Rose quartz is probably the most well-known and easily accessible crystal associated with Aphrodite. The metal cap of a 1st- or 2nd-century chariot pole, for instance, offers a popular visual interpretation of the Gorgon with two snakes tied neatly under her chin. However, afternoon shade is beneficial in hotter Curl Your blackened lips and bear Your venomous fangs! The red on the stem is his blood. Cerridwen's Myth Offer Her spring flowers separate from those you used to asperge the idol as well as more incense, and sweet red church wine. Her rage is unmet, and her ferocity is as deep and as strong as the seas. Sterope used the hair to defend the city and keep it safe. Take the snake head and place it on the sea sponge so it faces toward the front of the vessel. Next prepare the incense and fan the smoke toward the agalma. Strike vengeance together with her strength. Her face should also look fierce, and terrifying, not mournful. I summon the Gorgon Queen, Serpent-locked Medusa, infamous and terrifying Goddess, I stir You to Your furious form! Medusa herself is a symbol of feminism and divine femininity. Lets not forget her most famous power: the ability to turn men to stone. WebMedusa is a mystical blend of ancient forests, blood red apples, a magical brew of herbs and resins, spicy peppers and a drizzling of sweet caramel and vanilla infused with snake In his eyes, Medusa was only scary because it linked castration to something that a man could see. You are sought out by snakes. Spiritual practice is never an acceptable alternative for taking proper care of your health.). In her anger and in retaliation, Persephone (or sometimes her mother, Demeter), transformed Minthe into a mint tree. In my experience, Medusa is very patient when she reaches out to someone she wants to work with. This potion is consumable and can be added to teas, but it can also be used on poppets or other tools to heal, cleanse, and restore. Though Athena helped Perseus defect the woman, she knew the powers that her former head held. Medusa, in Greek mythology, the most famous of the monster figures known as Gorgons. Aconite was also the deadly plant used in the attempted poisoning of Theseus by the devious queen Medea. Minerva turned Her gaze and hid Her grey eyes behind Her aegis to protect Her chaste sight from the act. Zeus was furious when the deception was discovered and punished Prometheus to eternal torture. The Roman version of her story is the same but changes the location to Minervas temple and her partner to Neptune. The portrait was done on a convex board made out of poplar with Medusas visage, bringing out its reference to Aegis. Though she died before Helios could save her, the god intervened and sprinkled her with fragrance so that she could live again as the frankincense tree. Botanics have always held the interest of those interested in nature and the creation of life. During the French Revolution, those who wanted to defeat the royals used the head of Medusa as a symbol of their freedom. Dionysus created the first grapevine and used it to introduce humanity to the art of winemaking. Were women spared because Medusa didnt intend to hurt them? 1. You will add your name and the names of anyone you want protected that resides in the home or place. Listen, Gods of the Infernal Den, I am the witch NN, and my words have power! Mighty Protectress, by Your will and mine, the deed is done!. Freud simply stated that the myth is part of the Odepial Complex. Its important to note that throughout all the myths of epic poems, there are no records of her ever turning any woman to stone with her deadly gaze. Hesiod used her in Theogony. When it is time, hold fast her rage and take no mercy. When Perseus cut off her head, Medusa died and gave birth to the winged horse Pegasus and the giant Chrysaor through the wound in her neck. I work hard tokeep my creations and packaging cruelty free, responsibly sourced and eco-friendly. He was chained to a rock and his liver was repeatedly eaten by an eagle and then healed in an endless cycle. For this Athena punished her hideously. Daedalus and Icarus Story Was it a Myth or Reality? Leucothoe was the daughter of Orchamus, King of Persia, and the lover of Helios, the personification of the sun. Read on. You may be lucky enough to find Medusas Head plants ( Euphorbia caput-medusae) at a garden center that specializes in cacti and succulents. If you have a friend with a mature plant, ask if you can have a cutting to propagate your own plant. All stories of Medusa sprang from this event. For me, this is a way of reclaiming the Gods as a valid religious cult, not just antique figures reduced to myths and stories. This is a good starting point when you want to connect with her. Legend says while she was there baby snakes dropped from her head and this is why there are plenty of snakes in Africa. Several regions also depict her on their flags and emblems. She is also a goddess of femininity, fertility, and menstruation. His lover, a Satyr who was named Ampelos, was slain by a wild bull. It was said that anyone who looked directly at her was immediately turned to stone. Though she has a different name, she has the power to turn people to stone when they look into her eyes. Michelangelo and Picasso are just two of the famous artists who created work based on her. The mortal woman who became the Gorgon, Medusa, was cursed by Athena after being raped or seduced on the floor of one of Athenas temples by Poseidon. Medusa delivers strong flavor and aroma characteristics You can also simply put I protect this house or this building or so on. However, once transformed, Medusas appearance tremendously changed. If you use any of the content on this page in your own work, please use the code below to cite this page as the source of the content. Apollo fell in love with Evande, a daughter of Poseidon, who was raised by Aepytus. It came out in 2013 as part of a limited edition series.-Many people use an image of her head because they believe it will protect them from others. Unlike other stories that claim she caught them in the throes of passion, this version says that she was upset that her priestess went against her rules. Hyacinthus was a Spartan prince and a male lover of Apollo. Usually, when she reaches out, shes looking to work with you in particular based on your past traumatic experiences. She is also an intense force for justice and female empowerment. The men who saw Medusa were so terrified of her beauty that it left them mute and unable to speak. Adamantine Guardian, enthroned in every kingdom, most powerful sorceress Who can destroy all curses, Whom none can conquer, not even Death, by which You gained Your divinity. They all claimed that Medusa was a horrific creature but could not recall when they first heard the legend. The legend of Medusa is well-known in Hellenic lore. From c. 200 B.C. Whether you're looking to boost your financial wherewithal, land a new job, or just pad your bank account a little, try some of these magical herbs in your money-related workings. Athena then gifts Medusa with a special weapon that frees her from the possibility of ever suffering such an assault ever again. She further claimed that the womans head simply served as a mask for those who later wielded it. The story of Medusa first appeared in Ovids work. The man who stole her mask then used the story to frighten others. Versace still uses a log of a woman with terrifying features and serpents coming from her head as its brand logo. Pindar wrote in 490 BC that she had fair cheeks. Dionysios Skytobrachion wrote about her during the second century and claimed that she both lived and died in an area of Libya. Tea tree oil. To begin, it is important to understand each of Medusas symbola has very specific power because it isnt just Her gaze that I utilize in my cult practice. Mimse gave Demeter a barley drink to sate herself. It is penetrating, and has the power to turn to stone anyone who meets it. Sea sponge that has been cut flat so it may rest at the bottom of the vessel, A fireplace match, lighter, or other implement that can hold fire and reach the bottom of the vessel, Snake shed (add based on your availability), 1 tsp elderberry that has been boiled in spring water. 2. As such, her realm covers all water-related magic, sea and storm witches, sailors, and the like. Though some point to the version of the story where Athena came across Medusa in her temple, others claim that the legend never says whether she willingly agreed to intercourse with Poseidon. 9 Most Powerful Medicinal Plants and Herbs, Backed by Science Natures 9 Most Powerful Medicinal Plants and the Science Behind Them Gingko Turmeric Evening WebHermes, Greek god, son of Zeus and the Pleiad Maia; often identified with the Roman Mercury and with Casmilus or Cadmilus, one of the Cabeiri. Updates? The sisters convince her to change her mind before the Gorgon can slaughter the men. Greek Mythology is known for its many fearsome beasts such Mantikhoras and Cyclopes. WebMedina is one of the most popular of all Afro Caribbean herbs, especially so in Jamaica where it is commonly used to combat a variety of ailments but it is probably best known of AMAZING! The herald of the gods, Hermes, was born of the eldest Pleiad nymph Maia and Zeus, king of the gods. The stories about Medusa in Greece are unique because they changed quite a bit over the years. Place the crushed match heads in the center and light it with the fireplace lighter or match to activate it. The French military created a special belt during World War I that had her face on it. Even though not apparent signs I am very drawn to HER IMAGE AND POWERS. While most iconography shows Her as simply a head, some of the most striking Medusa imagery comes from temples dedicated to Apollon of Miletus and Artemis of Corfu where we see the Gorgon full bodied, often with 4 wings coming from Her back, Her usual snakes, yet She is flanked by two lions in both instances, a direct reference to the cult of the Great Mother. Euryale could leap with ease, while Stheno was stronger than her sisters. It is often cited as a story where Medusa is unjustly punished as the victim of rape. Mix a bowl of spring water with some sea salt, wormwood, cedar, and rue. She has been featured in movies, books, cartoons and even video games. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. This is not a tale of woe, where a rape victim is punished, but the story of a mighty Goddess earning Her place among the Deathless Gods. Her vessel not only stores Her dynamis but it is an active ward for protection. Clytia was a spurned lover of Helios who revealed the relationship between Leucothoe and the sun god to Orchamus. Another Greek poet, Pindar, noted that she was fair-cheeked. Their large eyes are not often remembered, for they transform you to stone at a moments glance. One of the divinities I am asked most about is Medusa. Cherry quartz (a redder version of rose quartz) and clear When it comes to the body of Medusa there are two kinds available on the market, one with the body and legs of a woman, the other the torso of a woman and the tail of a snake. Freud disregards any myths that claim she turned men to stone. A tepidarium from the Roman era has a mosaic floor with her head at the center. Take a small bouquet of fresh spring flowers and dip it into the holy water and sprinkle it onto the agalma (sacred idol) to cleanse it.