Maria: Patroness of Herb Gatherers

On August 15th, the Feast of the Assumption of Mary is celebrated, marking the “bodily taking up” of Mary into heaven. Traditionally, healing herbs are gathered in July and August, which are believed to provide protection and aid throughout the year. These herbs are now ripe and fully charged with the sun’s energy. By mid-August, they are at their peak potency and should be harvested. This is also an ideal time to bless these herbs, either by oneself or through a ritual blessing. According to folk belief, from mid-August until mid-September, a special protection is granted by Mary, who is said to watch over the world with her blessing hand. As a result, Mary has become the patron saint of those who work with and heal using herbs.

The Mystical Herb Bundle

Now is the time when herbs are gathered for the herbal bundles, which are believed to protect against misfortune and illness, often simply through their presence in the home’s sacred space. These bundles are also used for blessing, as well as for teas, baths, extracts, or ground into medicine for both people and animals. The composition of the herbal bundle can vary regionally, as can the number of herbs included, but they are always composed of “mystical numbers” such as 7, 9, 12, 14, 24, 72, or even 99. Common herbs found in these bundles include Arnica, St. John’s Wort, Chamomile, Mullein, Sage, Plantain, Wormwood, Mugwort, Tansy, Yarrow, Valerian, Verbena, Elecampane, Chicory, Lovage, Lady’s Mantle, Peppermint, and Thyme.