8. Hags Taper + Plant Lore of Mullein
This episode was inspired by a candle making session with some dear friends, under February’s snow moon, in which we felt called to adorn Mullein tapers with beeswax, dried herbs, and flowers, bringing light to us on dark nights. On this dark moon, we will be journeying through time to visit the sacred rites accessed through Mullein in the form of Hags Taper. The dried stalks of Mullein can be collected throughout the fall and winter to be used ritually as a torch or candle. This practice is called “Hags Taper.” The dried stalks of Mullein have been gathered ritualistically, and these candles are often associated with drawing love close to you and providing those engulfed in its circle of light with protection, courage, and good health. We are slowly entering the time when young shoots begin to breach the surface, and the fruits of our deep winter work begin to show above ground. As the days lengthen and we find ourselves enjoying the sun, being caressed by gentle winds, and we slowly emerge from our winter dens into the ripe springtime. May Hags Taper light your journey if the sunlight still feels out of reach, reminding you that light will always return and guide your path. Check out my Patreon, where you can support the podcast for as little as $2 a month and have early access to podcast episodes, bibliographies, and video interviews. 20% of the earnings on Patreon go to Mutual Aid funds. Join my mailing list where you'll receive occasional love letters and offerings from me.Follow me on InstagramMusic:Nostmo Halvar by Per OG Runberg Fylgje by Benedicte MaursethSolbonn (Sun-prayer) by Traditional, Linn Andrea FuglsethThrenos-Funeral Dance by Petros Tabouris EnsembleDance of the Druids (feat. ) by Bear McCreary, Raya YarbroughThe L and N Don’t Stop Here by Jean Ritchie Beltane by Cath Connelly The Mummers’ Dance by Loreena McKennittKuulin Anen by MeNaiset