Our herbs in witchcraft series is all about cranberries this month. Let's explore how these bright red berries can be used for healing and metaphysical purposes.
These tart little berries burst into their fiery prime at this time of year bringing a bitter sweet flavor and gorgeous color to the table.I love including them in my holiday meals, but cranberry juice is a personal favorite throughout the year. We know it's also a powerhouse for healing as well. Let's get into it.
Healing Properties of Cranberries
I think the first thing that will come to everyone's mind is drinking cranberry juice as a remedy to urinary tract infections. They are naturally antibacterial, and studies show that cranberry juice is more effective in the prevention rather than the cure of UTIs. To get the full effect, you really need to drink 100% cranberry juice which can be very bitter.
Cranberries are also full of antioxidants and are good for heart health. Their antibacterial properties can also prevent stomach ulcers. They seem to be great for your digestive system all around because they can also help prevent gallbladder disease and cleanse the liver.
As always, please be responsible and consult a doctor or other health professional before using cranberry or other herbs for healing purposes.
Magical & Spiritual Properties or Cranberries
Cranberries are tied to both fire and water due to their color and the way they're harvested. These berries fill entire bogs, floating closer and closer to our kitchens. They represent abundance, energy, healing, love, protection, emotions, communication, courage, action, and rejuvenation.
Here's more on the correspondences of cranberries to help you decide how to use them in your spellwork.
- Gender - feminine/receptive
- Elements - water, fire
- Planet - Mars
- Astrology - Sagittarius
- Deity - Astarte
- Chakra - root
- Sabbats - Samhain, Yule
Witchcraft Uses
Cranberries are often part of Samhain and Yule celebrations, as they are in season at this time of year. You can string together cranberries and dried oranges to create a beautiful garland for the holidays.
Cranberry juice can be used to represent blood in spellwork and rituals.
Add dried cranberries to spell jars or charm bags to bring one of the properties described above.
Get creative. How would you use cranberry energy in your spells?
Cranberry Recipes for the Kitchen Witch
I'm always excited to eat cranberries, but especially around the holiday season. Their gorgeous color just brings a jewel-like brightness to the darkest night of the year. Here are some awesome cranberry recipes to help bring love, abundance, and energy into your kitchen.
- Cranberry Glazed Turkey Meatloaf - I make this every year at Thanksgiving instead of roast turkey, and it's always a hit.
- White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Cookies - A Christmas classic.
- Brie & Cranberry Tartlets - A super simple but impressive party bite.
- Cranberry Cocktail Sausages - With a bit of chili sauce for a sticky glaze.
- Cranberry Margarita - Because margarita season shouldn't end in summer.
- Cranberry Bakewell Tart - Perfect with a cup of Christmas tea.
- Homemade Cranberry Sauce - It's almost like magic watching the berries burst and set.
Cranberries are a winter feast must and a huge support to your health throughout the year. What's your favorite way to use them? Let me know in the comments
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