Grape hyacinth and bluebell

Muscari racemosum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta

Hyacinths and grape hyacinths are ornamental plants. The bulbs are poisonous and can cause itching on contact ('hyacinth itch' among bulb peelers).

Safety notes

Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Cautions by tradition (1)

Home, kitchen and folk use: Bulbs are poisonous and can irritate the skin.

Preparation

Only as an ornamental and scented flower; do not eat the bulbs.

Use in traditions

In Greek myth the hyacinth sprang from the blood of Hyakinthos, the beloved of Apollo. In England glue was made from the bulb of the bluebell to bind books and fletch arrows. In herbal magic associated with love, luck, protection and comfort.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Folklore and herbal magic

Symbolic meanings from folk use and modern herbal magic. These are handed-down associations, not effects.

Love, luck, protection, comfort.

Home, kitchen and folk use

Attributed effects

The bulbs provided glue for books and arrows; the flowers were placed in the house for their scent and laid on graves.

Preparation and amount

Only as an ornamental and scented flower.

Caution: Bulbs are poisonous and can irritate the skin.

Sources

en.wikipedia.org

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