Dittany of Crete : Rediscovering An Ancient Herb

What is Dittany of Crete?

Dittany of Crete is an aromatic herb that has held a prominent place in folklore and herbal practices. This herb, found only on the Greek island of Crete, has been used both for its medicinal properties and its magical uses. Scientifically known as Origanum dictamnus, is a perennial plant that actually belongs to the mint family. It grows exclusively on the rocky and mountainous terrains of Crete. Its rarity and unique flavor make it a highly sought-after herb.

Herbal Uses of Dittany of Crete

As an herbal remedy, Dittany of Crete has been widely used for its antiseptic, soothing, and healing properties. It has been used in treating digestive disorders, wounds, skin diseases, and menstrual pain. The essential oil extracted from the plant is known to have potent antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

Description

Dittany of Crete has a pleasant herbal scent with floral top notes and savory undertones. Its flavor has subtle notes of thyme and oregano, with a trace of spiciness and bitterness (like some of the basil varieties). The complex flavors of Dittany of Crete are key ingredients Absinthe and Vermouth.

Dittany of Crete in Folkloric Magic

In folklore, Dittany of Crete is more than just a healing herb; it is a powerful magical materia. It was believed to have protective properties, with the ability to repel evil spirits and negative energies. In ancient times, the herb was often used in spellwork and rituals, particularly those related to love and protection.

Three Folk Charms Using Dittany of Crete

An Ancient Protection Charm

Ingredients:

• Dittany of Crete leaves (can be dried)
• A small pouch (preferably black or dark blue)
• Salt
• A black candle

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Space: Light the black candle to begin the protection spell. Visualize a shield of light beginning to grow around you.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, mix a handful of Dittany of Crete leaves with three pinches of salt. The salt cleanses negativity, while the dittany strengthens your protection.
3. Create the Charm: Carefully pour your mixture into the pouch. As you do, picture the shield of light intensifying and growing.
4. Seal the Spell: Close the pouch and hold it in both hands. Say, “With dittany and salt, I am shielded. No harm may come to me.” Feel the protective energy seal the charm.
5. Carry the Charm: Keep this pouch with you or place it in your home where you feel it's needed most.

A Simple Love Spell

Ingredients:

• Dittany of Crete petals (ideally fresh)
• A pink candle
• A piece of paper and pen (if you have dragon’s blood ink, use it!)
• A small jar or container

Instructions:

1. Light the Candle: Start by lighting the pink candle to open your heart to love.
2. Set Your Intention: On the paper, write down the qualities you desire in a partner or write a letter to an unknown lover, pouring your heart into it.
3. Fill the Jar: Place the dittany petals into the jar, then fold your paper and add it to the jar, covering it with more petals.
4. Seal Your Wish: As the candle burns, imagine your love life blossoming. Say, "Dittany of Crete, bring love to me, as I wish, so it shall be."
5. Keep the Jar Safe: Place the jar in a special place in your home where it won’t be disturbed, allowing the spell to work its magic.

A Healing Spell

Ingredients:

• Dittany of Crete leaves (fresh)
• A bowl of water (spring water is ideal)
• A green candle
• A cloth or bandage

Instructions:

1. Prepare with Intent: Light the green candle to focus healing energies. Have the bowl of water in front of you.
2. Soak the Leaves: Submerge the Dittany of Crete leaves in the water, letting them steep and infuse the liquid.
3. Concentrate on Healing: Hold the cloth or bandage over the bowl, then carefully pick up the leaves and place them on the cloth. As you do, focus on the healing you seek, whether for physical, emotional, or spiritual ailments.
4. Apply the Spell: Use the cloth to gently touch the area needing healing. If it’s emotional or spiritual, keep it close to the heart. Whisper, “With these leaves, healing begins, pain diminishes and strength wins.”
5. Finalize the Ritual: Blow out the candle, thanking the earth for its healing gifts. Keep the cloth with you or in a safe place until you feel the healing is complete.

Want to learn more candle magic?

Jack Smith’s Big Book of Candle Magic is the definitive source for candle magic spells and lore.