Introduction to Planetary Herbalism - Melissa Madara

This lecture is an introduction to the art of planetary herbalism- a practice with roots extending deep into the ancient world

Introduction to Planetary Herbalism

It may seem strange to look to the heavens while engaged in matters of the earth, but the varied and colorful history of correspondence between our heavenly bodies and plant allies can give us detailed insight into the nuances of these plants, and how they can be worked in our practice. Using the seven classical planetary spheres has been a useful way for magicians to organize, process, and access the material & metaphysical qualities of plants since the ancient world. This formula has been used to diagnose and cure diseases, make botanical elections in magical works, determine suitable offerings to particular spirits, and produce astrological charms and talismans from plants.

This lecture is an introduction to the art of planetary herbalism - a practice with roots extending deep into the ancient world, informing much of how we think about plants in the Western esoteric tradition. In this discussion, we will trace these practices from the past into modern times, and examine various practical applications for planetary herbalism in our personal craft.

In this deep introduction, we will cover:

planetary correspondences of magical plants

the use of herbs in crafting planetary talismans

folklore of the planets & their associated plants

key harvesting moments in the solar and lunar calendar

pathways to working with these plants for the creation of oils, infusions, and other preparations

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Bio

Melissa Madara is a occultist, author, and educator, teaching magic and witchcraft from a historical perspective. Their work deals with the healing power of myth, divination, and immersion in the natural world, with an emphasis on plant folklore and historical formularies. Melissa is the curator of Moon Cult, an online community of curious witches who learn and practice together. Find Melissa’s interviews in the New York Times, Vice, Broadly, Teen Vogue, or Refinery 29, or see their published works in Fiddler's Green, Venefica Magazine, or their two books, The Witch’s Feast & The Witch’s Workshop. Follow Melissa at mooncvlt.com or on IG @saint.jayne

Curated & Hosted by

Amy Hale is an Atlanta based writer, curator and critic, ethnographer and folklorist speaking and writing about esoteric history, art, culture, women and Cornwall. She is the author of Ithell Colquhoun: Genius of the Fern Loved Gully (Strange Attractor 2020) and is currently working on several Colquhoun related manuscripts. She is also the editor of Essays on Women in Western Esotericism: Beyond Seeresses and Sea Priestesses (Palgrave 2022). She has contributed gallery texts and essays for a number of institutions including Tate, Camden Arts Centre, Art UK, Arusha Galleries, Heavenly Records and she is a curator and host for the Last Tuesday Society lecture series.

don’t worry if you miss it – we will send you a recording valid for two weeks the next day