Winter Solstice Rituals, Lore & Plant Medicine

Posted by Jules Benefico, Certified Clinical Herbalist on Dec 7th 2021

The Winter Solstice, celebrated as Yule (or Jól) in many European pagan traditions, is the darkest and shortest day of the year. The occasion marks a turning point, and though months of winter lie ahead, each day that follows slowly becomes a bit brighter. On this day of peak darkness, Yule (and many other holidays observed in and around the Solstice) celebrates the return of light and the promise it brings for the new year to come.Yule is about cultivating strength, gratitude, and hope. We release the struggles that we have worked through during the dark half of the year so that we may welcome in the energy of the Sun—the source of the vitality and resilience that carried us through those hardships. By reflecting in the shadow of the night, we find inner knowing, peace, and resolve that readies us to shine anew.

Herbs for the Winter Solstice

By working with planetary, elemental, and natural energies of winter, we can intentionally invite more light, determination, and structure into our lives. There are a number of plants that can help us in this endeavor:

Blessed Thistle: Linked to the planet Mars and the Fire element, blessed thistle helps divert negative energy to protect and strengthen humans and our animal familiars (animals should not consume it, but they benefit energetically from its presence). Medicinally, this plant is a galactagogue, helping to encourage milk production in those who are nursing. This bitter also supports the liver and encourages circulation. Blessed thistle flower essence assists those who need comfort in giving and receiving.

Chamomile: In folk traditions, this flower of the Sun and of Water has been used in sleep amulets for dispelling insomnia and nightmares. It is also used magically as a hand wash to attract money. From a therapeutic perspective, this plant may be used as a mild sedative for natural sleep support, a slightly bitter digestive tonic to calm the stomach, or a relaxant to naturally ease tension.

Cedar: Influenced by Jupiter and the Fire element, cedar is believed to bring confidence, prosperity, growth, magnetism, and good health. This germ-fighting and tonifying botanical has applications but is often used to relieve congestion, or to cleanse and support the urinary tract. Cedar essential oil is especially useful in aromatherapy blends to fortify the immune system against seasonal maladies.

Cinnamon: Associated with both Mars and Mercury and embodying Fire, cinnamon brings purification, success, psychic vision, and clarity of mind. It has been used for millennia to awaken the mind and restore the body. Energetically, cinnamon is a moistening and warming spice, helping to stoke inner fire and keep vital energy flowing during dry and cold winter months. Medicinally, cinnamon is helpful for relieving gas and bloating, as well as regulating circulation.

Mistletoe: An herb of the Sun, Jupiter, and Fire, this plant is famed for attracting love and fertility (hence the holiday tradition of kissing beneath it). It also symbolizes peace—according to Nordic folklore, if you were to encounter an enemy under mistletoe, you were meant to drop your weapons until the next day. Herbalists use this nervine to relax the body, promote circulation, and reduce pressure and accumulations through the body.

Hawthorn: Hawthorn (of Mercury, Mars, and Air) has been used to ensure a fruitful harvest and fidelity in romantic relationships. Hawthorn tends to the heart magically and physically, offering aid for emotional heartache and a range of well documented cardiovascular benefits as well. This tonifying and diuretic plant helps dilate the blood vessels around the heart to promote better blood flow and function.

Clove: Cloves (of Uranus and Fire) bring protection, joy, wealth, and domestic harmony. Clove is said to help stop the spread of gossip and bring truth to light. Medicinally, clove has been used to relieve discomfort, particularly dental-related complaints. It may also help with seasonal congestion and stomach disturbances.

Orange Peel: This fruit of the Sun and Air (also known as “neroli”) brings confidence, happiness, and vitality into our lives. Orange peel offers spiritual guidance, helping those who are confused or lost in life find direction and focus. Orange peel is a warming and uplifting carminative that helps with digestion and mood. It contains vitamin C, folate, B6, and other vital nutrients and antioxidants.

Frankincense: Blazing with the energy of the Sun and Fire, frankincense is one of the most revered sacred herbs in human history. It helps call in the presence of the divine, and many cultures consider it essential for raising the spiritual vibration in rituals and ceremonies. This resin also has many therapeutic applications, offering relief and support for joint, digestive, and oral health.

Festive & Purifying Herbal Blend for Winter Solstice

You can enjoy the energetic and aromatherapeutic benefits of many Winter Solstice herbs with a simple homemade herbal potpourri. Unlike many store-bought versions made with synthetic fragrances, this all-natural blend will help cleanse and purify the air in your home (or car, or office!). Infuse this blend with your New Year's intentions and let it permeate your space to make its lovely scent an encouraging presence to bring your goals into fruition. It also makes a thoughtful DIY gift for loved ones.

YULE HERBAL POTPOURRI RECIPE

Ingredients

1/2 cup pine needles
1/2 cup cedar needles
1/2 cup oak bark
1/2 cup juniper berries
4 cinnamon sticks
3 Tbsp. whole cloves
3 Tbsp. frankincense powder
12 drops of cedar, frankincense, or other essential oil of your choice

Directions

Combine evergreen needles, bark berries, cinnamon, and cloves in a bowl and stir to mix.
In a separate bowl, mix frankincense powder with essential oil.
Pour resin/oil mixture over blend from step 1 and toss to combine (salad servers work well).
Transfer blend into an airtight glass jar to store. When ready to enjoy, scoop mixture into small bowls placed around your home to diffuse.

How to Make a Yule Altar

You can combine your Yule potpourri with other Winter Solstice symbols to create a celebratory space for connecting with the energies of the season. Here are a few ideas:

YULE ALTAR SUPPLIES & DECORATIONS

Animals: Reindeer, bear, phoenix, owl, raven, stag, squirrel
Crystals: Bloodstone, garnet, quartz, ruby, emerald, diamond
Foods: Spiced cider, mulled wine, eggnog, gingerbread, dried fruits, roasted meats, apples, cinnamon cookies, nuts, red cabbage, latkes, chestnuts
Colors: Red, green, gold, white, silver
Charms and Talismans: Wreaths, candles, bells, pinecones, holly, lights

MEDITATION RITUAL FOR WINTER SOLSTICE

Gather precious items, delicious foods, and your Yule herbal potpourri, and arrange them in an indoor or outdoor space where you can enjoy their energy. Find a comfortable seat before them, and take in the sights, scents, and feelings evoked by your altar.

Then, close your eyes and meditate on your intentions for the year ahead. Visualize your goals coming to fruition, and hold this image clearly in your mind. Picture yourself sending this vision onto your altar and letting the potpourri absorb your desires, infusing the herbs to be slowly released into your space throughout the winter to focus and inspire you.

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Written by Jules Benefico. Jules is a Clinical Western Herbalist. She studies medical astrology, western alchemy, and clinical nutrition and infuses this into her herbal practice.