Ravenhawk's Herb of the Month: Dittany of Crete

Dittany of Crete

About the Plant: Dittany of Crete Origanum dictamnus,[Lamiaceae][Common Names; Dictamnus creticus, dittany, diktamo, eronda, Crete dittany and Cretan dittany, hop majoram and winter sweet.

It is a therapeutic and aromatic plant that grows wild only on the mountainsides and gorges of the Greek island of Crete. It is widely used for food flavoring and medicinal purposes, in addition to featuring as an ornamental plant in gardens. This small, lanate shrub is easily recognized by the distinctive soft, woolly covering of white-grey hair on its stems and round green leaves, giving it a velvety texture. Its tiny rose-pink flowers are surrounded by brighter purple-pink bracts in summer and autumn. It is gathered while in bloom in the summer months and is exported for use in pharmaceuticals, perfumery, and flavor drinks such as vermouth and absinthe. It has been used since ancient times against stomach pains and as an effective painkiller and wound-healing agent.

Healing

Healing Properties: Antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiproliferative

Dittany of Crete herb can be used as a herbal tea for the relief of cough associated with cold and for mild disorders of the stomach and gut
such as a sensation of fullness or digestive problems. The infusion can also be used to soak a dressing
and applied to the skin for minor skin inflammations and bruises. Herbal teas containing Dittany of Crete should only be used in adults and should not be used for longer than a week for cough or for longer than two weeks for stomach and gut problems.

Magick

Powers: manifestation, astral protection, divination, manifestation, spirits, visions

Gender: Feminine

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Magickal Uses: To contact spirits and facilitate visions, burn the dried leaves and flowers as incense. Spirits will often materialize in the smoke. A tea made from Dittany will enhance your ability to astral project. Placing the leaves on your altar will help you manifest your hopes, dreams, and desires. To provide an order of protection, sprinkle A handful of the dried leaves around the outside of your house. It will help you deepen love.