Witchy Wednesday - Betony

Witchy Wednesday - Betony Betony is a member of the mint family and a woodland perrenial with a square stem and large Purple flowers. It grows on the edge of woodlands to around 2 feet in height and both its leaves and stems are hairy. The name betony is said to derive from a Celtic word bewton which means "good for the head". The Romans listed 47 different medicinal uses for betony, and believed that even wild beasts used betony as medicine, and would seek it out when wounded. A common traditional use for betony was a guard against evil spirits and mischief. During the Middle Ages, it was planted in churchyards and worn in amulets for protection.Betony can be stuffed into a pillow or placed underneath to prevent nightmares and night terrors.