January 21st, 2012

The Celts divided the year into 13 months based off the lunar cycles. Each month then corresponded with a tree. Today marks the beginning of the Rowan Month. Rowan - of which common names include Witch Wood, Thor's Helper, and Rune Tree - is actually a member of the Rose family, growing up to 50 feet in height, with white flowers in May and red berries in winter. It thrives in poor (or overworked) soil where other species will not grow, and has been found across Europe near ancient settlements and stone circles. The word "Rowan" supposedly comes from Old Norse: "Raun", the Norse word for the tree. Another possible origin is from the Finnish Goddess Rauni, who came down to earth and took on the form of the Rowan tree.
Rowan has long been considered a magickal wood, being utilized by the Celts for astral travel, personal power, and success. Norse people used the wood as staves for protection, and a small branch with runes carved into it could protect its bearer from harm. Similarly, the Celts further believed in Rowan's protective qualities, and so wore necklaces made from the berries, and placed branches of the plant around livestock and in the home. In some countries, Rowan has been planted in graveyards to help the dead move on, and many old coffins are made of Rowan wood. Other legends tell of fairies who flock to the trees, and that to do one damage is to invoke the wrath of the Fey. In Ireland, the fairies were said to live in the Forest of Dooros, where they did nothing but eat the berries of the Rowan, brought from Fairyland.
Today, while magickal properties of the past are still applicable, some more recent uses of the wood connect it with the masculine divine and with the element of fire. It is likewise used for healing, courage, and fertility.
Unlike the plants I have talked about in the past, Rowan is non-poisonous. Although the berries contain a possible carcinogen, this is easily neutralized by cooking. They contain high levels of Vitamin C and are natural, mild laxatives. The berries are made into jams, pies, wine, and tea. The tea of the Rowan berry helps to solve problems with the urinary tract. The bark is also used medicinally to treat problems with the blood and stomach.