Dictamnus albus | Dittany of Crete

Dictamnus albus, commonly known as burning bush or dittany of Crete, is a perennial shrub in the Rutaceae family. It is native to Europe and is now naturalized in other parts of the world. Burning bush is known for its clusters of small, white flowers that are followed by bright red berries.

Botanical Information:

• The plant can grow up to 1.2 meters tall and has green leaves with serrated edges.

• The flowers are pink or white and bloom in the summer.

• The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight.

Medicinal Uses

The leaves and stems have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including wounds, burns, and skin infections. Dittany is also a strong antiseptic and disinfectant. However, burning bush can be toxic if ingested, so it is important to use it carefully.

Magickal Properties

Dittany is associated with protection, purification, and healing. It is also associated with the following magical properties:

• Protection: Dittany is associated with protection and is often used in spells to ward off negativity and evil spirits.

• Purification: Dittany is associated with purification and is often used in spells to cleanse spaces and people.

• Healing: Dittany is associated with healing and is often used in spells to promote healing and recovery.

Elemental Correspondences

• Fire: Burning bush is associated with the element of fire because of its fiery capabilities and its association with transformation and purification.

Planetary and Astrological Correspondences

• Mars: Burning bush is associated with Mars because of its association with fire and its ability to protect and purify.

Associated Deitites and Traditions

• Hephaestus: Dittany is associated with Hephaestus, the Greek god of fire, blacksmithing, and craftsmanship.

Uses in Rituals, Spellwork and Magic

Dittany can be used in a variety of rituals, spellwork, and magic. It can be used to cleanse spaces, people, and objects, to ward off negativity and evil spirits, and to gain insights into the future.

Examples of Use

• To ward off negativity and evil spirits, sweep with dried burning bush around your home or burn burning bush incense.

• To cleanse spaces and people, add dittany to a cleansing bath or wash your hands with burning bush infused water.

• To promote healing and recovery, add burning bush to a healing spell.