Often used for inspiration in art and poetry, also known as "the tree of knowledge", The Hazel has much more to offer than just a delightful look. It has both, strong medicinal and magical properties, as well as a lot of symbolic meaning as it is related to many folklore beliefs, especially druid ones. Furthermore, the tree itself has a lot of uses as it is easy to work with - it is very pliant.
Ancient Beliefs
One of the main beliefs is the ability of the Hazel tree to gift one with infinite knowledge.
This can be found in one of the most popular Celtic myths about the Nine magical Hazel trees. In the legend, it was said that once there were nine magical hazel trees, who bordered the line between the human realm and the realm of Gods. These trees would produce fruit the nut of which would oftentimes fall into the nearby stream, where it was consumed by the "salmon of wisdom". After eating the nuts it was believed the salmon would gain all the knowledge of the world.
The Celts believed hazelnuts gave one wisdom and inspiration. To show that the fish had eaten the hazelnuts, bright, glistening spots would appear on its' sides. Those who ate the fish afterward were believed to gain psychic abilities as did one of the Fionn Mac Cumhail, who then became one of the most heroic leaders in Irish mythology.
The hazel tree is also associated with Odin, who was believed to have hanged upside down on the tree for nine days, after which he obtained the knowledge of the runes.
Due to the fact Hazel is a really pliant wood, it has long been a favorite wood from which to make staffs, whether for ritual Druidic use, for medieval self-defense, as staffs favored by pilgrims, or to make shepherds crooks and everyday walking sticks.
In Greek and Roman mythology, Hermes and his Roman equivalent Mercury were both said to carry a staff made from a Hazel tree to aid in travels through the human and spirit realms and to be bestowed with great wisdom.
Other beliefs:
To dream of a Hazelnut tree predicts wealth as well as unexpected good fortune, good health, love, and good life.
In the Grimm Brothers' tales, it is said that hazel branches offer the greatest protection from snakes and other things that creep on the earth. Furthermore in the tale of "Cinderella", a hazel branch is planted by the protagonist at her mother's grave and grows into a tree that is the site where the girl's wishes are granted by birds.
The air surrounding hazel trees is said to be magically charged with the quicksilver energy of exhilaration and inspiration.
Hazel twigs have traditionally always been used for divining because of their pliancy and affinity with water.
Hazelnuts are said to be sacred to Norse God Thor, that is why it was believed that keeping them on windows will protect from lightning.
In Wales, fresh hazel leaves worn as a chaplet for the head brought general good luck and ensured the granting of wishes, as well as protection for those at sea from a shipwreck.
Because it is an Autumn tree it is believed to be a tree of transformation. Transformation of dark into light, sadness to happiness all that matters is our perspective.
Medicinal properties:
To clear a stubborn cough, finely powder the nuts and mix with water and honey.
The leaves can be used in teas to treat varicose veins, circulatory problems, fevers, diarrhea, and excessive menstrual flow.
Hazelnuts are a good source of protein, vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
Magical properties:
Wands made of this wood symbolize white magick and healing.
In need of magical protection? Draw a circle around yourself with a hazel branch.
Do you have a wish? Weave hazel twigs into a crown put it on your head and wish hard - It might come true.
Put twigs of Hazel on window frames to protect the house against lightning
Pick up the first acorn you find at the beginning of Autumn and carry it throughout the Autumn and Winter as it will protect you from negativity and will bring you prosperity and good luck through the dark months ahead. When Spring comes return it to nature and thank it.
When the moon is full, place an acorn on your window for money income.
It corresponds to the Third eye chakra and consuming hazelnuts is said to bring in psychic abilities and strengthen one's intuition.
The Hazelnut tree is a symbol of many things - creativity, knowledge, wisdom, passion. It is here to remind us that it is all about how you look at things, that the journey is more important than the end destination.
Enjoy the journey!
Blessed be Witches!
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