Botanical Name
Prunus spinosa
 
Usual Origin(s)
Europe, Western Asia, North Africa
 
Description
Small, dark blue-black berries with a distinctive tart and astringent flavor. These berries grow on thorny shrubs and are traditionally harvested in late autumn after the first frost, which helps to sweeten their naturally bitter taste.
 
Folk Names
Sloe Berries, Wild Plum, Wishing Thorn, Mother of the Wood, Snag Bush
 
Gender
Feminine
 
Planet
Saturn
 
Element
Earth
 
Powers
Protection, Exorcism, Banishing, Divination
 
Magical Uses
Blackthorn berries are powerful protective agents when carried in sachets or charm bags, shielding the bearer from negative energies and malicious intent. The berries are commonly used in exorcism rituals and banishing spells to drive away unwanted spirits or break curses and hexes. When placed under the pillow, blackthorn berries are believed to promote prophetic dreams and enhance divination abilities. Creating an infusion with the berries and sprinkling it around the home creates a protective barrier against psychic attacks and negative influences. The thorny nature of the blackthorn plant makes its berries particularly effective in defensive magic, creating barriers that turn harmful energies back to their source. Blackthorn berries are also used in rituals for ending toxic relationships or breaking free from harmful patterns, helping to sever unwanted connections.
In traditional folk magic, carrying these berries during times of conflict or legal troubles is thought to provide protection and favor just outcomes.
 
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