Henbane Meaning and magickal uses
Also called Hyoscyamus niger, Black Henbane, Stinking Nightshade
A toxic, old-world herb of the witch's garden, honored in story and never handled.
- Intentions
- Divination, Protection, Banishing
- Element
- Water
- Planet
- Saturn
- Day
- Saturday
- Moon phase
- New Moon
- Parts used
- None for handling; work with its name or picture
How to use it
- Written charm
Write henbane on paper and add it to a Saturday protection pouch with rosemary.
- Folklore study
Read about historic herb gardens and add henbane to the poisonous plants page of your Book of Shadows as a warning.
- Hecate honor
Light a black candle on a new moon and name the plants you will never touch, as a vow of respect.
History and folklore
Henbane has been in European gardens for centuries. Old writings linked it with witches, spirit work and storms, and its pale, veined flowers on sticky stems gave it a sinister look.
A toxic, old-world herb of the witch's garden, honored in story and never handled.
- Intentions: Divination, Protection, Banishing
- Element: Water
- Planet: Saturn
- Day: Saturday
- Moon phase: New Moon
- Parts used: None for handling; work with its name or picture
Safety: Henbane is poisonous in every part, with seeds and roots especially dangerous. Never eat, drink, smoke, burn or apply it to the skin. Keep it away from children and pets. If anyone is exposed, call poison control or emergency services at once.
How to use it
- Written charm. Write henbane on paper and add it to a Saturday protection pouch with rosemary.
- Folklore study. Read about historic herb gardens and add henbane to the poisonous plants page of your Book of Shadows as a warning.
- Hecate honor. Light a black candle on a new moon and name the plants you will never touch, as a vow of respect.
Works well with: Black Candle, New Moon, Saturday, Jet, Saturn
Folklore
Henbane has been in European gardens for centuries. Old writings linked it with witches, spirit work and storms, and its pale, veined flowers on sticky stems gave it a sinister look.
The Witch's Cabinet is a free reference for your practice. Correspondences are traditional associations, not medical advice. Always follow the safety notes, especially with herbs and essential oils around children, pets and during pregnancy.