Description
An informative and entertaining look at why plants have been used in magic and what that tells us about people and plants in a post-magic world.
With chapters on subjects as diverse as Witchcraft, Curses and Blessings, Divination, the Plants of Faery, Hallucinogens, Divine Plants in the Christian and Pagan traditions and a Plant Bestiary, Greg Kenicer’s book is an erudite and informative look at how and why various plants have had a role in Europe’s supernatural and magical traditions.
Individual entries look at particular plants combining botanical analysis with historical examples and anecdote to explain exactly why each plant came to be used in this way. Considerations of dangers and actual efficacy cast light on how modern science is now re-examining the uses of many of the plants and how the evolution of the plants themselves has been influenced by our use of them.
Whether Foxglove or Mandrake, Hawthorn or Aspen, Rowan or Oak, St. John’s Wort or Bird Cherry, Plant Magic shines a bright and fascinating new light on dozens of familiar plants.
Review
The cover of this book is absolutely beautiful and there are also some lovely illustrations of plants within its pages. Although the electronic copy of the book is obviously still factual, I think you miss out on the atmosphere the hardback would provide you with. A book to be dipped in and out of when you have a moment rather to sit and read through. There are so many interesting facts and things I had never heard of.
One of the sections that interested me most was the Doctrine of Signatures which dates back to the Ancient Egyptians. This is using a plant that looked like an organ or the condition that needed treating. Nature's way of guiding you to using the correct plant!
There is also referencing to literature and myths and legends in which plants feature. If you are interested in mythology you will find many links to the Gods through the plants featured providing a good cross over of knowledge. The book sets out an explanation of how it is organised and the parameters (and disclaimer) of it's contents. It's meant as an historical look at magic, not to be used as a book of modern day charms!
My thanks to Love Book Tours for the ARC of this book for review.
Dr. Greg J Kenicer is the author of Plant Magic. He is also a botanist and a lecturer at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. He is an expert in the evolution and diversity of peas and beans but the fantastical relationship between plants and people is where his heart really lies.
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