Ivy

Ivy . . . .

(Hedera spp.) Also known as Gort A Druid Sacred Herb. An ancient plant, believed by the Greeks to treat intoxication.

Parts Used: Twig and leaf

The Ivy was sacred to Osiris as well as to Dionysus. Vine and Ivy come next to each other at the turn of the year, and are jointly dicated to resurrection. Presumably, this is because they are the only two trees that grow spirally. The Vine also symbolizes resurrection because its strength is preserved in the wine.

Magical Uses: Connected with the Winter Solstice when it is used for decorating. Ivy provides protection when growing on or near a house. Ivy is equated with fidelity and is woven into marriage wreaths. Use in charms to bind luck, love, and fidelity to your person. It is paired with holly, magically. Ivy is carried by women for good luck in general, and is worn by brides for the same reason. Traditional crowns for the bride and groom are made of holly (a male plant) and ivy (a female plant). Wreaths and altar decorations are made from these as well.