Digitalis purpurea | Foxglove

Digitalis purpurea, commonly known as foxglove or common foxglove, is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant in the Plantaginaceae family. It is native to temperate regions of Europe and has been naturalized in parts of North America. The plant is widely cultivated for its ornamental flowers, which are typically deep purple or pink but can also be white or yellow. 

Botanical information:

• Common names: Foxglove, Lady's Glove

• Scientific name: Digitalis purpurea

• Family: Plantaginaceae

• Parts used: Leaves

Medicinal Uses

• Digitalis purpurea is the source of digoxin, a heart medication that is used to treat congestive heart failure. Digoxin slows the heart rate and strengthens the heart's contractions.

Magickal Properties:

• Folk names: Faeries' Petticoats, Goblin Gloves, Dead Man's Bells

• Protection: Foxglove is associated with protection from evil forces and negativity. It is said to create a protective sphere around the user.

• Fertility: The bell-shape of foxglove flowers is said to symbolize fertility. Foxglove is often used in fertility spells and rituals.

• Abundance: Foxglove is also associated with abundance and prosperity. It is said to attract good fortune and material wealth.

• Vision and Clarity: Foxglove is said to enhance intuition and clarity. It is often used in divination and meditation practices.

Elemental Correspondences

• Earth: The roots of foxglove connect it to the earth element, symbolizing grounding and stability.

• Water: The bell-shaped flowers of foxglove resemble water lilies, connecting it to the water element, symbolizing emotions and intuition.

• Fire: The bright colors of foxglove flowers, particularly the deep purple varieties, connect it to the fire element, symbolizing passion and energy.

• Air: The intricate and delicate structure of foxglove flowers connects it to the air element, symbolizing communication and clarity.

Planetary and Astrological Correspondences

• Planet: Venus, Saturn

• Sign: Taurus

• Ruling Deity: Venus

Associated Deitites and Traditions

• Venus: The Roman goddess of love, beauty, and abundance.

• Aphrodite: The Greek goddess of love, beauty, and pleasure.

• Fertility Goddesses: Foxglove is often associated with fertility goddesses from various traditions, such as Gaia from Greek mythology and Pachamama from Andean spirituality.

• In Greek mythology, the goddess Hera used foxglove to make her milk poisonous so that Hercules would die from drinking it.

• In Norse mythology, the foxglove is associated with the god Balder, who was killed by a spear made from mistletoe. It is said that foxglove grew where his blood fell.

Uses in Rituals, Spellwork, and Magic

• Protection Spells: Foxglove can be used to create protective charms, amulets, and talismans. It can also be added to purification baths and incense to cleanse away negative energy.

• Fertility Rituals: Foxglove can be used to attract fertility and promote pregnancy. It can be added to fertility spells, divination tools, and fertility statues.

• Abundance Spells: Foxglove can be used to attract abundance and prosperity. It can be included in money spells, prosperity sachets, and wealth-drawing rituals.

• Vision and Clarity Practices: Foxglove can be used to enhance intuition and clarity during divination practices, meditation, and dreamwork. It can be burned as incense, added to ritual baths, or used as an altar decoration.

Safety Precautions

Digitalis purpurea is a highly toxic plant. Improper use can lead to serious health problems, including cardiac arrest and death.