This month’s feature is parsley, an herb you can easily purchase at the grocery store, or grow at home, in partial-to-full sunlight. If you are growing from seed, keep the soil moist.

Parsley was held in high esteem by the ancient Greeks. It is said to have been dedicated to Persephone and to Greek funeral rites. In ancient Greek mythology, Archemorus was the forerunner of death. It was believed that parsley sprung from the blood of Archemorus when he was killed by a serpent. Victors were crowned with chaplets of parsley and tombs were adorned with this herb. It was later consecrated to Saint Peter.

The Romans tucked a sprig of parsley into their togas for protection. Parsley was also placed on plates of food to guard it from contamination. Some have also believed that parsley provokes lust and promotes fertility when eaten. The Romans also fed parsley to their racehorses believing that it would keep them strong and fit.

In the Middle Ages, parsley had many medicinal uses; many which probably make us grateful that we are alive today and have access to modern medicine! One use for infections in France was a ointment-like paste of parsley and snail. Medieval Europeans believed that one could kill an enemy by plucking a sprig while speaking the person’s name.

In folklore, it is also said that parsley throw into ponds could cure ill fish.

Astrologically, parsley has been associated with the planet Mercury.

Currently, Parsley is also considered a favorite of Venus/Aphrodite. It is believed that when used for magick, it should be gathered on any Friday, when the Moon is waxing.

When used as a bathing herb, parsley brings communion with the second aspect of the Goddess, that of the loving, maternal aspect of the Universe. This procedure is highly recommended when a priestess intends to invoke this form of the Goddess, or for a woman who is with child, desirous of a healthy pregnancy.

The leaves, stem, seeds and roots of this plant can be used in many ways, other than its culinary uses in savoury dishes. When eaten fresh, it freshens the breath (especially after eating raw garlic). It also encourages milk production for nursing mothers. It is also a great vitamin boost to the body, chock full of vitamins A, B, calcium, iron, and more vitamin C per volume than an orange.

Parsley tea is used to help settle the stomach after a meal. The tea can also used to treat flu and cold congestion, to lessen asthma attacks, for kidney and liver obstructions, and anemia. It is often used to treat urinary infections and fluid retention.

As an oil, parsley seed’s main use is as a diuretic and in the treatment of urinary tract problems, although I recommend using extreme care when dealing with essential oils, due to its high concentration. If in doubt, contact a physician before consuming any concoctions utilizing essential oil.

Parsley root is used for flatulence, cystitis, and rheumatic conditions.

Thanks for reading. Keep those questions coming. I can’t always guarantee an answer, due to the volume of e-mail I receive, but I will try my best to get to you.