- Region
- Europe
- Origin
- Europe (Balkans)
- Traditions
- Folk magic and herbal magic
Europe · Herb · № 204
Syringa vulgaris
Herb · Europe
Lilac
Syringa vulgaris
An ornamental shrub with fragrant flowers. The flowers are edible but bitter; the bark was once tried as a bitter remedy for fever.
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.
Preparation
Edible flower.
Use in traditions
Lilac comes from the Balkans and became known in Western Europe in the 16th century via the Ottoman court. In North America it is the state flower of New Hampshire. In the Victorian language of flowers white lilac stood for youthful innocence and purple for first love. In herbal magic associated with protection, driving away negative energy, beauty and love.
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.
Protection, driving out negative energy, beauty, love, psychic abilities, purification, prosperity.
Home, kitchen and folk use
Preparation and amount
Edible flower.