Lammas Herbs

Lammas, referred to also as Lughnasadh (celebrating the Celtic God of Light Lugh), is a time of gratitude, a time to celebrate the first harvest, the coming harvest, the bountiful earth and its glorious provisions. The word Lammas translates as 'loaf mass', and traditionally this time is associated with baking loaves of bread using the first grains of the harvest.

This is a time to count your blessings, to thank our ancestors for cultivating the ground and the earth for its abundance.

Decorate your altar in deep, glorious shades of yellow, gold, red, orange and pink. Use fresh flowers if you can - a pot of marigolds (calendular) are perfect, with their sun-like golden heads...Bake some of your own bread, or add some grains...Add some freshly harvested vegetables...As this time is very much associated with creativity, have a go at making your own corn dolly (lots of videos on the internet!), or a little wreath or garland of flowers...and herbs of course, fresh or dried - here are 9 traditionally associated with Lammas:-

Meadowsweet - 'Queen of the Meadow' was revered by Druids and made into garlands to celebrate Lammas; this herb is associated with love, peace, courage and protection.

Mint - to draw in abundance, heal and protect - make some mint tea and combine into a little abundance ritual.

Sunflowers - With their heads always following the Sun, the petals and seeds are wonderful for love and abundance.

Calendula - Marigold flowers in their array of hues from yellow to rust, are a great addition to your altar and for use in rituals concerning protection and clarity.

Rosemary - Fresh rosemary is available everywhere at the moment - use it for protection and peace.

Rose Petals - Dried or fresh roses will draw in abundance and love.

Dill - A sprinkling of dill seeds or some fresh sprigs will bring prosperity and success.

Yarrow - Add to your altar for protection.

Vervain - for purity, and draw in wealth and abundance.

Lammas begins on the eve of 31st July and extends until midnight on 1st August, but these coming few weeks can be dedicated to honouring and thanking the earth for its bounty...however you choose to do this, be it with rituals, countryside walks, baking bread with friends and family, making a corn dolly, writing a poem, painting a picture, or simply taking the time to sit and appreciating the abundance around you.