The activity of herbs attributed to Mercury is quite
multifaceted and diverse, mirroring the ways that the energies of Mercury
tend to perform in magick, but a common thread runs through them. Mercury is
the connector, the communicator and the messenger, representing the bright
intelligence and the free flow of nervous energy. Mercury governs both the
nervous and respiratory systems and is intrinsically involved in matters of
conscious perception. Like the Mars herbs, the action of stimulation is
principal amongst Mercurial herbs though they are of a somewhat gentler and
more precise nature than the Martian herb stimuli. Mercury energy is about
communication & comprehension - communication by electrical impulse in the
brain as well as the verbal and written word. Mercury energies are those of
the orator, writer, computer programmer and actor. The herbs associated with
this planet are often spices which act to excite the nervous system and the
brain through the sense of taste. Cinnamon, licorice and star anise are
noted examples of this function.
Gum Mastic exemplifies the interconnecting messenger function of
Mercury. Though it is a fixative and binder, it provides the medium in which
a multiplicity of elements may blend (communicate). Mercurial herbs seem as
a group to act to relieve respiratory difficulty, hoarseness and headache due
to stress. Mullein taken as a tea relieves respiratory conditions as well as
coughs, hoarseness and bronchitis, while inhalation of the steam serves to
break up congestion in the chest. Application of a mullein fomentation, on
the other hand, is said to relieve skin inflammation, itching and warts.
Licorice also relieves sore throat, hoarseness and bronchial conditions as
well as calming nervous ulcers.
Lavender is excellent for relief to the skin when applied directly as
a flower infusion or as an essential oil for insect bites and is an aid in
relieving headache when massaged into the temples. It is also a beneficial
herb to use in a sleep pillow to help focus and quiet the rambling thoughts
of the mind in preparation for rest. Drinking a tea of equal parts cinnamon
and lavender flowers is also very helpful before studying to help focus the
mind in order to retain the information.
Mercurial herbs facilitate clear thinking and conscious
understanding. They aid in business success and excite and vitalize the
nervous receptors throughout the body. They help to facilitate quick
recovery from illness. Mercurial herbs enable the conscious mind to
communicate more easily with the subconscious mind, thus aiding psychic work
with the Tarot or any other divination method which visually incorporates
symbols and requires memorization. Herbs traditionally associated with
Mercury include Cinnamon, Dill, Ephedra, Lavender, Licorice, Gum Mastic,
Marjoram, Mouseear, Mullein, Star Anise, Thyme and Woodruff.
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