Mardi: Herbal-Wise

The unusual sounding Master Root (known in European horticulture as Master Wort) is a fairly hardy plant in most temperate areas whose roots, stems and leaves are used in magick for luck, power, protection and aid in psychic pursuits.

In hoodoo, people are advised to grow Master Root in their gardens to draw luck to their homes.  Legend has it that collecting rain water, pouring some over the plant each morning and then washing your hands with the water that drips from the leaves will bring you respect and advancement at work.  Master Root is added to tricks and mojos to give a person presence, power and command over a specific situation and/or person.  Put a leaf under your pillow to assist in lucid and prophetic dreaming.

Wiccans say that wearing a piece of Master Wort as a charm will strengthen health and stamina.  This is particularly true for men (Angelica root is more effective for women).   The root is also said to calm strong emotions when held in the non-dominant hand and to keep away evil spirits.  Scott Cunningham recommends sprinkling chips of Master Wort around a magick circle or in a garden to make spirits appear.  In ancient European lore, Master Wort was believed to serve as a home for fairy folk.

Master Root should not be confused with woodruff or sweet woodruff which is often referred to as Master of the Woods.  These plants can be used together as they have similar magickal properties, but they have different botanical backgrounds.  Bonne chance ~

Header: Spring in the Gardens of Villa Borghese by Lawrence Alma-Tadema