13 Herbs for Yule - Awesome on 20

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Are you ready to celebrate the winter solstice with plant magick? I've got 13 herbs for Yule to help you craft spells and rituals that are deeply magical.

13 Herbs for Yule with a door wreath with cinnamon and orange

Yule has become so deeply intertwined with Christmas over the centuries that it's nearly impossible to separate many of the traditions we now associate with the Christian holiday. But many of the earth-based customs and associations, like holly, mistletoe, and pine trees, date back to pagan customs of Yule and winter solstice celebrations.

On the longest night of the year, as winter's grip takes hold, our ancient ancestors worked magick to bring back light and life to the earth. They used the few plants available to them to weave their spells to honor the darkness and create hope for the return of the sun.

To learn more about Yule, check out these posts:

Herbs for Yule

Unlike the summer solstice when we're practically tripping over flourishing plant life, the winter solstice is sparse. Look to hearty herbs and botanicals that give us the energy of endurance and resilience. Trees, bark, and evergreen plants are most common. Here are 13 herbs for Yule to get you started.

Aspen - This stark and beautiful tree can be used to call in protection, spirit connection, and rebirth. It's also associated with the sun and fire.
Bayberry - Also known as candleberry, this plant brings prosperity and luck.
Cinnamon - A more modern Yule association, this spice carries fire energy and cau be used to call in prosperity, spiritual connection, and peace.
Cranberry - With its bright red color, cranberry balance the energy of fire and water and brings abundance, healing, protection, and courage.
Cypress - Associated with the sun and fire, this tree is used for calming energy and is often tied to death and mourning rituals.
Holly - One of the few plants that truly flourishes around Yule, holly protects against negativity. Its berries symbolise the sun, light, fire, and warmth.
Juniper - Use this plant in rituals to drive out the old year and bring healing and justice.
Mistletoe - Use these white berries for more than just kissing. They bring protection, healing, fertility, and rebirth. They're also said to bring prophetic dreams, but maybe that's because they're poisonous.
Nutmeg - A classic in eggnog, nutmeg can be used to call in prosperity, luck, and virility.
Oak - The always strong oak is significant throughout the wheel of the year. It symbolizes fertility and stability.
Orange - One of the few fresh fruits available in the winter back in the day, oranges are a part of many winter solstice traditions. They bring a bright, vibrant energy and can be used to call in love and joy.
Pine - You may have one in your house right now. They're evergreen energy symbolizes cleansing, regeneration, and new beginnings.
Yew - This sacred tree is a symbol of regeneration from death, which is exactly what we're looking for at Yule.

Use your common sense when working with herbs. Some are poisonous or may be safe for humans but not for pets. Never ingest anything unless you're 100% sure it's safe to eat.

dehydrated orange and lime slices strung on twine

How to use your herbs

You are only limited by your imagination when it comes to working these herbs for Yule into your spellwork. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Burn a Yule log from a corresponded tree.
Craft a wreath to call in new life and hang on your front door.
Decorate a pine tree with lights and symbols of abundance.
Craft a garland of dried oranges and Yule berries.
Brew a Yule tea blend to keep you warm.
Create a fragrant Yule simmer pot to carry your intentions of light to the Universe.
Take a walk in nature and whisper encouragement to the persistent plant life.
Add Yule herbs to a dream pillow to encourage restful sleep during the long nights.

White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Cookies stacked

Recipes to use your Yule herbs

One of my favorite ways to celebrate the sabbats is with a feast. Yule is already a traditional time for feasting, and you may already have many family recipes you like to make at this time of year. But there are lots of delicious ways to enjoy some of the edible (and drinkable, hello juniper) herbs for Yule.

Here are a few Yule corresponded recipes to get you started. For more recipe ideas, check out my post, Recipes to Celebrate Yule.

I hope your Yule celebration is merry and bright and filled with hope for a bright and sunny future. I'd love to hear about what you have planned. Let me know or ask any questions you may have in the comments below. Blessed Yule, witches.