- Region
- South America
- Origin
- South America (Peru)
- Traditions
- Folk magic and herbal magic
South America · Herb · № 237
Heliotropium arborescens
Herb · South America
Heliotrope
Heliotropium arborescens
An ornamental plant with strongly vanilla-scented flowers. It contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids and is poisonous if swallowed; it is grown only for its scent.
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: Poisonous if swallowed because of pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
Preparation
Only as an ornamental or scented flower; do not take internally.
Use in traditions
Heliotrope comes from Peru and was brought to Europe in the 18th century, where it became a popular garden plant and perfume scent. The name means 'turned towards the sun'. In herbal magic associated with clairvoyance, psychic powers, health and money.
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.
Clairvoyance, psychic abilities, health, money.
Home, kitchen and folk use
Attributed effects
A beloved garden and fragrance plant; in folk use a flower was placed under the pillow for prophetic dreams.
Preparation and amount
Only as an ornamental and scented flower.
Caution: Poisonous if swallowed because of pyrrolizidine alkaloids.