Belladonna
Names:
Scientific & Latin: Atropa belladonna
Nicknames:
Deadly Nightshade, Devil’s Cherries, Witch’s Berry
Intentions:
Protection, banishment, invisibility, transformation, astral projection
Properties:
Potent banishing energy, enhances psychic abilities, creates a veil of invisibility, aids in transformation, connects to the spirit realm
Basic Overview:
Belladonna is a powerful and mysterious plant with a long history in both herbalism and magick. Known for its toxic properties, it is used with caution in magickal practices. Belladonna is associated with protection and banishment, often used to ward off negative energies and unwanted influences. It is also linked to transformation and invisibility, aiding in astral projection and connecting to the spirit realm. Due to its potent energy, Belladonna is reserved for experienced practitioners who understand its power and risks.
Folklore & Mythology:
In European folklore, Belladonna was believed to be used by witches to aid in flying and invisibility. It was associated with Hecate, the Greek goddess of witchcraft, and was used in rituals to connect with the spirit world. In Italian folklore, Belladonna was used to create love potions, despite its dangerous nature. Its name, meaning “beautiful lady,” refers to its historical use in cosmetics, although this practice was perilous.
Magickal Preparation:
Belladonna is typically used in dried form for magickal purposes. It can be added to charm bags or used in incense for banishment and protection. Due to its toxicity, it should never be ingested or applied to the skin. When used in rituals, it is often combined with other protective herbs to enhance its energy safely. Belladonna can be placed on altars or in ritual spaces to connect with the spirit realm and aid in transformation.
Magickal Practices:
☆ Protection Spells: Use Belladonna in charm bags or place it around your home to ward off negativity.
☆ Banishment Rituals: Burn Belladonna as incense in controlled settings to drive away unwanted influences.
☆ Invisibility Work: Incorporate Belladonna into rituals to create a veil of invisibility or concealment.
☆ Astral Projection: Use Belladonna in rituals to enhance psychic abilities and aid in spiritual journeys.
☆ Transformation Spells: Incorporate Belladonna into rituals to facilitate personal transformation and change.
☆ Spirit Communication: Place Belladonna on altars to connect with deities or spirits, especially during Samhain or other spirit-focused rituals.
Planet:
Saturn – Associated with boundaries, protection, and transformation.
Element:
Water – Represents intuition, the subconscious, and the spirit realm.
Zodiac Signs:
★ Scorpio: For its transformative and mysterious energy.
★ Capricorn: For its protective and boundary-setting qualities.
Deities:
☆ Hecate (Greek): Goddess of witchcraft, magic, and the crossroads.
☆ Morrigan (Celtic): Goddess of transformation and the otherworld.
☆ Lilith (Jewish): Associated with independence and the night.
Colors:
★ Black: Symbolizes protection and the unknown.
★ Purple: Represents transformation and spiritual insight.
★ Dark Green: Enhances connection to nature and the spirit realm.
Crystals:
☆ Obsidian: For protection and grounding.
☆ Amethyst: Enhances psychic abilities and spiritual awareness.
☆ Labradorite: Aids in transformation and connecting with the unseen.
Moon Phase Association:
Dark Moon – Ideal for banishment, protection, and connecting with the spirit world.
Season:
Autumn – Represents transformation, introspection, and the thinning of the veil.
Divination Interpretation:
In divination, Belladonna symbolizes transformation, the need for protection, and the exploration of hidden aspects. It suggests a time to confront fears and embrace change while being mindful of boundaries.
Shadow Work Focus:
Belladonna corresponds to the shadow archetype of embracing the unknown—it encourages you to explore hidden fears and transform them into sources of strength and wisdom.
Substitute Botanicals:
★ Mugwort: For psychic enhancement and protection.
★ Black Salt: For banishment and grounding.
★ Yew: For transformation and connecting with the spirit realm.
Appearance Description:
Belladonna is a perennial plant with dark green leaves and bell-shaped purple flowers. Its berries are shiny and black, resembling small cherries. Despite its beauty, all parts of the plant are highly toxic.
Cautions & Considerations:
Belladonna is extremely toxic and should be handled with care. It should never be ingested or applied to the skin. Use it only in well-ventilated areas and keep it out of reach of children and pets. Always consult with experienced practitioners when incorporating Belladonna into your magickal practice.
