Also Known as: Myrtus communis, true myrtle, common myrtle, sweet myrtle, Greek myrtle
Farming Type: Organic
Origin: Turkey
Myrtle is found throughout the Mediterranean, as well as in some tropical and sub-tropical regions. It is an evergreen shrub or small tree with star-like flowers that have an exceedingly large amount of stamens and blue-black berries. The flowers bloom in summer, and the berries ripen in fall and early winter. Myrtle was one of the symbols of the Three Graces, and a Victorian symbol of fidelity in marriage. Nymphs are often associated with the myrtle tree. One story relates that it was nymphs of the myrtle tree that gave humanity the arts of making cheese, bee keeping, and growing olives. Another relates how the nymph Daphne turned herself into a myrtle tree to escape being raped by Apollo. This could explain why the myrtle leaf is considered a symbol of protection.
The leaves can be used as a tea, as well as cooking and grilling meats and vegetables. Used as firewood, it transmits a spicy aromatic flavor to whatever it is grilled over. The berries are edible but seldom eaten as they are quite bitter. The berries have been processed into jam, and at times been used as a substitute for black pepper. All parts of the plant can be used for a myriad of fragrant pursuits. Myrtle was considered sacred to both Aphrodite and Demeter. In pagan and wiccan rituals it is associated with and sacred to Beltane (Mayday). In Jewish liturgy it is one of the four sacred plants of Sukkot, the Feast of the Tabernacles. On the islands of Sardinia and Corsica it is used to produce a liqueur called Mirto.
NOTE: There is little documented evidence to show that Myrtle is particularly dangerous, but caution should always be maintained when trying any new botanical. It is recommended that pregnant women should avoid myrtle
In Magick, Myrtle is a sacred herb for Aphrodite, Demeter, Artemis, Hathor, Astarta and Marian. It is therefore excellent for all types of love and Glamour spells. Ruled by water and Venus, it is also a good herb for fertility (especially when paired with Mistletoe)!
For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease
