Herbs

Many herbs have symbolic meanings that go back centuries. For example, the ancient Romans offered wreaths of bay leaves as a symbol of triumph and peace. Earlier, bay was a sacred plant for Greeks and considered to be a protector from disease, witchcraft and lightning. In Britain, rosemary was called ‘Rose of Mary’ in memory of the Virgin Mary; in Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Ophelia says, ‘There’s rosemary, that’s for remembrance, pray you love, remember.’ This is by no means a complete list of the symbolic meanings of each herb in your dreams. Bear in mind that the symbolism of herbs is inextricably tied to culture and religion; your personal associations also need to be taken into account.

Aloe: Healing, protection, grief, bitterness, affection .

Angelica: Inspiration, magic.

Basil: Sweetness, kindness, deep affection.

Bay: Glory, honor, reward.

Calendula: Joy, remembrance, grief.

Chamomile: Energy in adversity, patience, long life, wisdom .

Chives: Usefulness.

Dandelion: Faithfulness, happiness.

Dill: Preservation, good spirits.

Dock leaves: Used to soothe the irritation caused by nettles, so in dreams they suggest how you should approach a difficult situation in waking life.

Fennel: Strength, worthy of praise, flattery.

Garlic: Protection, strength, healing.

Lavender: Housewifely virtue, acknowledgment.

Lily of the Valley: Contentment, return of happiness, let’s make up .

Marjoram: Joy, happiness.

Mint: Eternal refreshment, wisdom, virtue.

Mugwort: Tranquility, happiness.

Mustard: Faith, indifference.

Parsley: Useful knowledge, feast, joy, victory.

Rosemary: Remembrance, love, loyalty, fidelity.

Saffron: Beware of success; all is not what it seems.

Sage: Wisdom, self-esteem.

Sassafras: Foundation, considered choices.

Thyme: Activity, bravery, courage, strength.

(see by type, Field, Flowers, Gardens)

The smell of a plant, and the feelings or memories it engenders, may be more important here than the herb itself (see Perfn?ne).

Because of their long association with folk medicine, herbs in your dream may reveal matters of personal health, or concerns about same.

If a kitchen spice, this may be a figurative symbol for needing to spice things up in vour life or home.

1. Expresses a need to use new ideas for old problems.

2. Bal­ance and satisfaction are in the offing (an herb garden).

3. Use caution around rough situations and possibly malicious people (poisonous plants and herbs).

4. A knowledge and appreciation of good friendships, pleasure and warmth (pleasant aromatic herbs).

5. Being well-loved.