How to Use Larkspur for Spells and Healing
Greek mythology says that Larkspur sprang from the blood of Ajax after he took his own life. This brightly colored fern-like flower grows to be about two to four feet tall, and sprouts a large bushel of brightly colored flowers that make an attractive addition to any garden. Larkspur has a rich history of being used for protection and healing.
Botany Facts
Larkspur can refer to two types of flowers, Consolida and Delphinium. The differences between the two include: native habitat, small plant structure differences, and whether the plant is an annual or perennial flower.
Consolida
- Native to western Europe
- Annual
- Denser flower heads
- Foliage is finer than Delphinium
- About 40 varieties
Delphinium
- Native to the Northern Hemisphere and high mountains of Africa
- Perennial
- Fewer blossoms, but flowers tend to be larger than Consolida
- About 300 varieties
- Genus name comes from the Greek word for dolphin (delphÃnion) since the shape of the flowers resemble dolphins.
NOTE: While Larkspur is used for some healing properties, it is considered toxic when ingested. These beautiful flowers should possibly be skipped if you have grazing animals on your land - especially cows and goats.
Magical Aspects
The two versions of Larkspur should be interchangeable for most spells and healing rituals, however, if you're an ingredient purist, then knowing where your ritual or spell originates should give you a good idea of which variety to use.
Larkspur is considered a Venus plant, is considered a feminine energy, and has strong healing and protective properties. The plant is also a good way to keep scorpions and other small pests away.
Protection
Larkspur has a long history of being used for protection, specifically against ghosts and spirits. It is a regular ingredient in my protection rituals, and uses can be as simple as including it in a potpourri mix or lighting a Larkspur incense stick while praying.
Larkspur can also be used in rituals to protect soldiers and heroes, and should be used in a funeral or memorial services for these individuals. Including Larkspur in death rituals surrounding heroes will help protect the spirit of the hero. (Remember that 'hero' is a relative term, and your personal interpretation is what matters.)
While I will not go into details about it here, Larkspur toxicity means that it is considered a 'baneful' herb that can be used to poison in the correct hands. Some would argue that this is another type of protection.
Uses:
- A dried bunch of larkspur can be hung near an entryway to ward off evil and theft.
- Including Larkspur plants in gardens surrounding a home can help to keep evil spirits at bay, and protect the land surrounding the plants.
- Including Larkspur in scented protection sachets or potpourri for the house will help make your house smell better, and protect against evil spirits.
- A Full Moon Spell to bring blessings and protection.
Healing
Healing with Larkspur must be done with caution, and generally only used externally due to Larkspur potentially being toxic if ingested. Some people may experience a skin reaction after handling Larkspur or Larkspur oils, so always test any tincture in a small area first before applying it more liberally.
Larkspur also has a less vague protection uses. It's potent scent and oils have been used for ages to keep pests (most likely lice) at bay for warriors when they were in the field.
Disclaimer: I do not have a medical background and all healing advice should be personally validated with additional sources before using.
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