- Region
- Europe
- Origin
- Europe (South), Africa (North)
- Traditions
- Folk magic and herbal magic
Europe · Herb · № 208
Antirrhinum majus
Herb · Europe
Snapdragon
Antirrhinum majus
An ornamental plant. In folk medicine leaves were laid as a poultice on sores and haemorrhoids; a medicinal effect has not been studied.
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
Plant along the edge of the garden for protection.
Use in traditions
Snapdragon comes from the Mediterranean. Children squeeze the flower so that the 'mouth' opens. In Russia oil was pressed from the seeds. In medieval gardens the plant was considered a protection against enchantment. In herbal magic associated with protection against illusion and deceit and reflecting negative energy.
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 against illusion and deceit, reflecting negative energy back.
Home, kitchen and folk use
Preparation and amount
Plant along the edge of the garden for protection.