Magical properties of trees
Magical properties of trees.
Tree Magic is the knowledge of the properties possessed by wood, leaves, and fruits of various trees and the ability to use these properties for one's needs, to enhance or weaken them, to find the right harmonious combinations for creating magical items. The suggested list, of course, cannot encompass all the variety of trees. Similarly, the information provided is very general and limited. Real training in this type of magic requires time, and the entire "course" cannot be covered in a brief overview.
Thorn
The magic tree of the Little Folk. Specifically, the Little Folk considers three trees as their own: thorn, oak, and ash. Thorn is particularly beloved by banshees, mourners, and is often perceived as a tree of death. Special wine for rituals, where the assistance and participation of the Little Folk is required, is made from thorn berries. Thorn flower petals are used in healing. They are collected by spreading a cloth under the bush and simply shaking the bush. This way, you won't damage the berry clusters. The wood has a unique property of accumulating any energy and transforming it into life-giving energy. Therefore, thorn is ideal for making healing rods for Healers.
Oak
Oak is a tree traditionally associated with gods of thunder, such as Zeus, Jupiter, Dagda, and others. However, this connection arose relatively late in human history when these gods took a predominant position in pantheons, as the oak tree was very often the tree growing near ancient altars. The sacred property of oak is almost forgotten and can only be traced by studying the name of this tree in different languages. The energy of the oak (alive tree) creates whirls that connect worlds. Therefore, so-called "Gates" or "Portals" are most often located in oak groves, or where these groves once stood. Oak is a tree of wisdom and Power, as in its presence, one can directly communicate with the inhabitants of other worlds and deities. A Brotherhood ritual conducted under the intertwined branches of two oak trees (oak has the ability to interconnect branches with similar trees and some other trees) binds you not for one lifetime but "until the end of time." Oak wood not only preserves itself well but also retains the spells and magical weavings created during processing. Therefore, oak is convenient for creating tools such as a divination board, talismans linked with deities and spirits, and more. Additionally, oak gall nuts are used to prepare magical inks.
Ash
The Tree of the World in the Scandinavian tradition, the tree of purity and light, whose branches serve as a ladder to the Heavens. Ash is a sacred tree of one of the oldest gods – Liera, the God of the boundless Ocean of Space at first, and then, with the loss of knowledge, the God of the world Ocean, i.e., the boundless water expanses (Neptune). The property of ash wood to repel all dark and malevolent forces allows its use as an indicator of dark spells detrimental to mortal life and dangerous for the human soul. For these purposes, a small twig is usually requested from the tree, stripped of its bark, and wrapped with silver wire, all in the light of the full moon. The twig is then used as a wand. The twig will bend and twist out of fingers when approaching something hostile to the bright energy of the ash. In the vicinity of altars to dark deities, ash usually perishes, making it challenging to use as a talisman - its power is passive. Ash sap is used in preparing a drink for divining the will of the gods.
Rowan
Rowan is astrologically linked to Uranus, with which the power of lightning is associated. It is believed that Rowan is not afraid of lightning, and therefore, as a form of protection, settlements and temples were surrounded by these trees. The spirit of the Rowan tree represents the guardian of secret truths - secrets associated with immortality and personal freedom of the gods. In Celtic mythology, Rowan was considered a magical tree, and its bright red berries were known as the "food of the gods," guarded by a green dragon. Rowan berries are widely used as an amulet, protecting against evil spirits and sorcery. Rowan wood is used for the sacred fire of Brigid. Similarly, talismans can be crafted from Rowan wood for protection against temptations on the path of spiritual development.
Birch
Birch symbolizes growth and the strength of life. It is considered a tree that holds the life-giving power of the Sun and has been dedicated to the nearly forgotten female aspect of the Sun. The weeping birch is a favorite playground of Slavic rusalkas, so during their play days (Trinity), colorful ribbons and scraps are tied to the birch for the rusalkas to braid their hair. Since birch is a tree of life and rebirth, its branches adorn homes and clothing on the Night of Bonfires. Birch twig wreaths are used in purification rituals. The living tree has the ability to "pull out" illness and minor sorcery from a person - by hugging the tree and asking for help. The sick person is sat leaning against the trunk, near the roots. If a person cannot be brought to the tree, their belongings are hung on a birch branch with a request for help. A birch branch fused with an oak one is used in love magic. Birch roots are used for causing harm and casting spells. The thin branches of weeping birches are used for tying "knots" - a form of enchantment. Birch bark is used for writing runic spells with ink made from oak gall nuts and a crow's wing feather. Virtually all parts of the tree are used in healing practices.
Aspen
Aspen is a magical tree. Possessing magical power, the wood of this tree blocks the power of a human witch (but is powerless against a Mage). Aspen crowns were used for the lower circles and roofs of baths because in a bathhouse, a person purifies, and most nations also give birth in a bathhouse - to avoid curses and afflictions. Experienced witches can modulate their own power with the power of the tree, creating spells and incantations on aspen branches. Aspen wood is used to make chests for storing magical and witchcraft tools - the wood blocks both the power of the tool and any attempt to "reach" it from outside, better than silk. This way, you can hide something valuable from prying eyes. Additionally, aspen is the "voice" of the Forest. By listening to the rustle of aspen leaves, witches receive answers from the Green Man to their questions. The bark and young branches of the tree are used in healing practices.
Willow
Willow is a lunar tree, dedicated to the Moon, lunar goddesses, and lunar magic. If ash is the Tree of the Created World, then the willow is the Tree of Creation. With a willow wand, Kerridwen stirs the potion of transformations in her magical cauldron. In everyday witchcraft practices, willow is almost not used because its power is poorly modulated - the powerful potential of transformation is subject to the Universal Law, and very often, instead of "what you want," you get "what must be." Willow twigs were woven into cages for sacrifices, as willow facilitated immediate and "right" rebirth of the spirit of the sacrifice.
Hawthorn
A protective tree. The well-known fairy tale of Sleeping Beauty is a retelling of the ancient legend of the virgin moon goddess Olwen, protected by hawthorn. A living hawthorn tree growing in one of the corners of a courtyard can serve as a focal point, a knot, for protective charms. Simultaneously, it is a tree of sorrow and bad omens. Hawthorn blooming out of season or blooming again in the same year is a clear sign of impending disaster and many deaths. The wreath of Jesus was woven from hawthorn, not blackthorn. Hawthorn thorns are used in witchcraft with dolls. A spell can be whispered onto a thorn and then stuck into a wall or under an eave. It is mainly used for casting spells, causing harm, diseases, and death. However, it can be used in combination with willow and rowan to turn misfortune into good fortune.
Elder
A tree of the winter solstice, associated with the mysteries of death and birth. Used in communicating with the spirits of the deceased, awaiting rebirth. Some parts of the plant were used in healing to prepare a sleep-inducing potion - this potion would induce a state similar to lethargy in the sick (or severely wounded), allowing them to be transported to a temple for healing (in this "sleep," vital functions slow down significantly, and the disease does not progress, providing time to reach professional help). Elder branches (or dried bundles prepared in spring) are used in childbirth and in the ritual of escorting the dying beyond the Veil (assisting the dying).
Apple tree
The tree of Mother Earth, Cybele (wild apple tree and its fruits). One of the Leaders of the Ancient Irish Trees - unauthorized felling of an apple tree was punishable by death. Dense wood is used to make vessels for storing medicinal mixtures and ointments (in healing), as it is believed that the property of the apple tree enhances the healing properties of preparations. The wood is also used for ritual bonfires. Wine made from the fruits is used in fertility rituals dedicated to the Mother. The fruits and thin roots are used in love magic.
Forest Nut
The Tree of Wisdom, dedicated to Mercury (Hermes). Also a tree that holds the knowledge of the Gods (Shi). A sacred tree of Caledonia - the Walnut Hills. Used only in magic, not sorcery, as it has the ability to reflect emotions back to the operator - creating a "rebound" effect for the witch. Druids, when settling disputes, held white walnut wands in their hands as a symbol of impartiality. In England, a bifurcated walnut wand was used to identify criminals. To this day, slingshots made from forest nuts are widely used in catapulting. A wand made from a forest nut is used to control the North Wind.
Alder
The tree of the Spring Equinox, associated with Bran (Mars) and fire. This is a tree of warriors - talismans of bravery were made from alder. The spirit of the alder is aggressive and vengeful. Cutting down an alder most often means bringing a series of misfortunes upon oneself. Because this is a fiery tree, the misfortunes would end in a fire in your home. This property was used in creating talismans for warriors - the natural aggression of the tree was directed against enemies. The red sap of the alder is used in Earth magic rituals, symbolizing the blood of the Forest.
Holly
Holly, or oak, symbolizes the continuity of life. That is why its evergreen branches decorate homes during the Long Night festival when Light is reborn, although its own festival is Lammas, the ancient festival of Fire and Bread. Associated with Earth Goddesses - Birthgivers, the mystical attribute of holly is the blood of the birthgiver, or menstrual blood. Branches with leaves are used in rituals in magic, where a long-lasting spell is cast, to give the spell the property of cyclicality, endless repetition. In the Futhark, the sacred alphabet of the Northern Tradition, holly corresponds to the rune Teiwaz.
Ivy
Although ivy is not a tree and does not even have a woody stem, it is included in this list because it is one of the thirteen plants of the Celtic tree calendar. The sacred plant of Arianrhod (Ariadne) possesses great inherent magical potential and is actively used in magic, sorcery, and healing. A symbol of immortality. A plant of Shi. The constellation Northern Crown supposedly represents a wreath of ivy thrown into the sky. Among the Celts, this constellation is the Castle of Arianrhod, a door between the human world and the world of Shi. A wreath of ivy, or a braid of ivy adorning the hair, preserves sobriety of mind and saves people from oblivion when meeting the Gods of Shi. Therefore, the plant is an essential attribute of the priests of these Gods.
Grapevine
A plant associated with Branwen (Aphrodite), symbolizing the Autumn Equinox. Used in magic in dedication and initiation rituals, as it represents the "blade of the sword," a thin barrier between the animal nature of mortal humans and their immortal spirit (for example, wine as a symbol of Christ's blood in the communion ritual). The ash of a burned grapevine is used as a "key" to the realm of darkness, Hades, the abode of lost Spirits, those who have lost the opportunity for reincarnation, rebirth, without reaching liberation. In this sense, the grapevine is similar to blackberry, and where it does not grow in the wild, it is substituted with it both in mythology and ritual. It is often used in magic in conjunction with ivy.
Reed
Or reed (not to be confused with bulrush, often called reed), is associated with Pwll (Pluto). The plant of Samhain - the Night of Spirits. The thick roots of the reed, resembling tree roots, led the Celts to consider the reed as the dwelling of a hidden dryad. This discrepancy in sizes of its above-ground and underground parts made the reed a symbol of the underworld (not to be confused with Hades), the place from which the spirit is reborn through the cauldron of Cerridwen. A reed wand is used in the ritual of priestly initiation of the first degree. The sound of a reed pipe opens the gates of the underworld and protects from its guardians (the guardians do not harm the entrant as long as the pipe sounds). Originally, the Scottish bagpipe was created as a tool of cunning to allow the living to speak with those not yet reborn (or with the Gods of the underworld) under the protection of the pipe's sound. The reed wand is also a symbol of royal authority. Initially, the wand showed that the claimant had passed initiation in the underworld and had the right to rule in the sublunary world.
Maple
A tree of solar-Martian nature. Represents the host of Light. By and large, similar to ash, but its power is aggressive and effective. Maple is therefore used to create barriers against Darkness. A solar disk carved from maple and hung above a door, maple steps at the entrance to a house, door jambs made of this wood - all these are protections against malevolent forces, often used in ritual constructions dedicated to bright, solar deities. Maple was used in building bridges across running water. Running water is an obstacle to dark forces, and maple prevented these forces from using the bridge. Maple branches covering a stable, or inserted into walls, protect livestock from the evil eye and curses. A blunted maple arrow kills undead. Fermented maple sap drink - the sacred wine of sun worshippers. Bread is baked on maple leaves to transfer the power of the Sun to the loaf and remove any potential negative energy from the dough. Maple (and its parts) is actively used in healing practices.
Spruce
The sacred tree of the Hunter in his dark, aggressive aspect as the God of Death, guide to the realm of Death. The Hut on Chicken Legs - the dwelling of Baba Yaga, is built from spruce logs and stands in a dense spruce forest, which perfectly describes the qualities of this tree. Forest spirits, leshies, live in the spruce forest. With death, spruce is associated in many cultures - funeral pyres were made from spruce logs, coffins were fashioned from spruce boards (but one of the five boards had to be of maple). Simultaneously, spruce symbolizes the sacramental meaning of Death as liberation, purification, mystery, opposing birth in the Wheel of Life. Spruce (branches) are used as protection against the wrath or malicious pranks of the Hunter, i.e., at home - against storms and hurricanes, in crops - against hail. But using trunks in construction is not allowed - the Hunter will be angered and strike the structure with lightning. Similarly, spruce should not be used for stoking a stove. However, a forest bonfire of dried spruce will ensure the favor of the Hunter. It's best to camp under a spruce in the forest, as it protects from the night games of spirits. But it's better not to seek shelter under a spruce during a storm. Scythes are made from spruce sticks - this may associate the scythe with Death in Western tradition. In healing, spruce is used to treat illnesses under the dominion of the Hunter.
Juniper
Juniper wood is used for the spindle of Mokosh - the Slavic Goddess of Fate. While not commonly used in magic, juniper is abundantly present in various witchcraft rituals and ceremonies. Juniper is used for fumigation to banish the undead, rid oneself of illnesses, or those caused by the undead. Talismans for good luck are made from juniper roots. To ensure a successful hunt, wooden overlays are made for hunting bows or even bows are entirely made of juniper. Also, a dwelling for small forest spirits. Witches like to plant juniper around their homes so their little helpers are always close by.
Magical properties of trees.
Tree Magic is the knowledge of the properties possessed by wood, leaves, and fruits of various trees and the ability to use these properties for one's needs, to enhance or weaken them, to find the right harmonious combinations for creating magical items. The suggested list, of course, cannot encompass all the variety of trees. Similarly, the information provided is very general and limited. Real training in this type of magic requires time, and the entire "course" cannot be covered in a brief overview.
Thorn
The magic tree of the Little Folk. Specifically, the Little Folk considers three trees as their own: thorn, oak, and ash. Thorn is particularly beloved by banshees, mourners, and is often perceived as a tree of death. Special wine for rituals, where the assistance and participation of the Little Folk is required, is made from thorn berries. Thorn flower petals are used in healing. They are collected by spreading a cloth under the bush and simply shaking the bush. This way, you won't damage the berry clusters. The wood has a unique property of accumulating any energy and transforming it into life-giving energy. Therefore, thorn is ideal for making healing rods for Healers.
Oak
Oak is a tree traditionally associated with gods of thunder, such as Zeus, Jupiter, Dagda, and others. However, this connection arose relatively late in human history when these gods took a predominant position in pantheons, as the oak tree was very often the tree growing near ancient altars. The sacred property of oak is almost forgotten and can only be traced by studying the name of this tree in different languages. The energy of the oak (alive tree) creates whirls that connect worlds. Therefore, so-called "Gates" or "Portals" are most often located in oak groves, or where these groves once stood. Oak is a tree of wisdom and Power, as in its presence, one can directly communicate with the inhabitants of other worlds and deities. A Brotherhood ritual conducted under the intertwined branches of two oak trees (oak has the ability to interconnect branches with similar trees and some other trees) binds you not for one lifetime but "until the end of time." Oak wood not only preserves itself well but also retains the spells and magical weavings created during processing. Therefore, oak is convenient for creating tools such as a divination board, talismans linked with deities and spirits, and more. Additionally, oak gall nuts are used to prepare magical inks.
Ash
The Tree of the World in the Scandinavian tradition, the tree of purity and light, whose branches serve as a ladder to the Heavens. Ash is a sacred tree of one of the oldest gods – Liera, the God of the boundless Ocean of Space at first, and then, with the loss of knowledge, the God of the world Ocean, i.e., the boundless water expanses (Neptune). The property of ash wood to repel all dark and malevolent forces allows its use as an indicator of dark spells detrimental to mortal life and dangerous for the human soul. For these purposes, a small twig is usually requested from the tree, stripped of its bark, and wrapped with silver wire, all in the light of the full moon. The twig is then used as a wand. The twig will bend and twist out of fingers when approaching something hostile to the bright energy of the ash. In the vicinity of altars to dark deities, ash usually perishes, making it challenging to use as a talisman - its power is passive. Ash sap is used in preparing a drink for divining the will of the gods.
Rowan
Rowan is astrologically linked to Uranus, with which the power of lightning is associated. It is believed that Rowan is not afraid of lightning, and therefore, as a form of protection, settlements and temples were surrounded by these trees. The spirit of the Rowan tree represents the guardian of secret truths - secrets associated with immortality and personal freedom of the gods. In Celtic mythology, Rowan was considered a magical tree, and its bright red berries were known as the "food of the gods," guarded by a green dragon. Rowan berries are widely used as an amulet, protecting against evil spirits and sorcery. Rowan wood is used for the sacred fire of Brigid. Similarly, talismans can be crafted from Rowan wood for protection against temptations on the path of spiritual development.
Birch
Birch symbolizes growth and the strength of life. It is considered a tree that holds the life-giving power of the Sun and has been dedicated to the nearly forgotten female aspect of the Sun. The weeping birch is a favorite playground of Slavic rusalkas, so during their play days (Trinity), colorful ribbons and scraps are tied to the birch for the rusalkas to braid their hair. Since birch is a tree of life and rebirth, its branches adorn homes and clothing on the Night of Bonfires. Birch twig wreaths are used in purification rituals. The living tree has the ability to "pull out" illness and minor sorcery from a person - by hugging the tree and asking for help. The sick person is sat leaning against the trunk, near the roots. If a person cannot be brought to the tree, their belongings are hung on a birch branch with a request for help. A birch branch fused with an oak one is used in love magic. Birch roots are used for causing harm and casting spells. The thin branches of weeping birches are used for tying "knots" - a form of enchantment. Birch bark is used for writing runic spells with ink made from oak gall nuts and a crow's wing feather. Virtually all parts of the tree are used in healing practices.
Aspen
Aspen is a magical tree. Possessing magical power, the wood of this tree blocks the power of a human witch (but is powerless against a Mage). Aspen crowns were used for the lower circles and roofs of baths because in a bathhouse, a person purifies, and most nations also give birth in a bathhouse - to avoid curses and afflictions. Experienced witches can modulate their own power with the power of the tree, creating spells and incantations on aspen branches. Aspen wood is used to make chests for storing magical and witchcraft tools - the wood blocks both the power of the tool and any attempt to "reach" it from outside, better than silk. This way, you can hide something valuable from prying eyes. Additionally, aspen is the "voice" of the Forest. By listening to the rustle of aspen leaves, witches receive answers from the Green Man to their questions. The bark and young branches of the tree are used in healing practices.
Willow
Willow is a lunar tree, dedicated to the Moon, lunar goddesses, and lunar magic. If ash is the Tree of the Created World, then the willow is the Tree of Creation. With a willow wand, Kerridwen stirs the potion of transformations in her magical cauldron. In everyday witchcraft practices, willow is almost not used because its power is poorly modulated - the powerful potential of transformation is subject to the Universal Law, and very often, instead of "what you want," you get "what must be." Willow twigs were woven into cages for sacrifices, as willow facilitated immediate and "right" rebirth of the spirit of the sacrifice.
Hawthorn
A protective tree. The well-known fairy tale of Sleeping Beauty is a retelling of the ancient legend of the virgin moon goddess Olwen, protected by hawthorn. A living hawthorn tree growing in one of the corners of a courtyard can serve as a focal point, a knot, for protective charms. Simultaneously, it is a tree of sorrow and bad omens. Hawthorn blooming out of season or blooming again in the same year is a clear sign of impending disaster and many deaths. The wreath of Jesus was woven from hawthorn, not blackthorn. Hawthorn thorns are used in witchcraft with dolls. A spell can be whispered onto a thorn and then stuck into a wall or under an eave. It is mainly used for casting spells, causing harm, diseases, and death. However, it can be used in combination with willow and rowan to turn misfortune into good fortune.
Elder
A tree of the winter solstice, associated with the mysteries of death and birth. Used in communicating with the spirits of the deceased, awaiting rebirth. Some parts of the plant were used in healing to prepare a sleep-inducing potion - this potion would induce a state similar to lethargy in the sick (or severely wounded), allowing them to be transported to a temple for healing (in this "sleep," vital functions slow down significantly, and the disease does not progress, providing time to reach professional help). Elder branches (or dried bundles prepared in spring) are used in childbirth and in the ritual of escorting the dying beyond the Veil (assisting the dying).
Apple tree
The tree of Mother Earth, Cybele (wild apple tree and its fruits). One of the Leaders of the Ancient Irish Trees - unauthorized felling of an apple tree was punishable by death. Dense wood is used to make vessels for storing medicinal mixtures and ointments (in healing), as it is believed that the property of the apple tree enhances the healing properties of preparations. The wood is also used for ritual bonfires. Wine made from the fruits is used in fertility rituals dedicated to the Mother. The fruits and thin roots are used in love magic.
Forest Nut
The Tree of Wisdom, dedicated to Mercury (Hermes). Also a tree that holds the knowledge of the Gods (Shi). A sacred tree of Caledonia - the Walnut Hills. Used only in magic, not sorcery, as it has the ability to reflect emotions back to the operator - creating a "rebound" effect for the witch. Druids, when settling disputes, held white walnut wands in their hands as a symbol of impartiality. In England, a bifurcated walnut wand was used to identify criminals. To this day, slingshots made from forest nuts are widely used in catapulting. A wand made from a forest nut is used to control the North Wind.
Alder
The tree of the Spring Equinox, associated with Bran (Mars) and fire. This is a tree of warriors - talismans of bravery were made from alder. The spirit of the alder is aggressive and vengeful. Cutting down an alder most often means bringing a series of misfortunes upon oneself. Because this is a fiery tree, the misfortunes would end in a fire in your home. This property was used in creating talismans for warriors - the natural aggression of the tree was directed against enemies. The red sap of the alder is used in Earth magic rituals, symbolizing the blood of the Forest.
Holly
Holly, or oak, symbolizes the continuity of life. That is why its evergreen branches decorate homes during the Long Night festival when Light is reborn, although its own festival is Lammas, the ancient festival of Fire and Bread. Associated with Earth Goddesses - Birthgivers, the mystical attribute of holly is the blood of the birthgiver, or menstrual blood. Branches with leaves are used in rituals in magic, where a long-lasting spell is cast, to give the spell the property of cyclicality, endless repetition. In the Futhark, the sacred alphabet of the Northern Tradition, holly corresponds to the rune Teiwaz.
Ivy
Although ivy is not a tree and does not even have a woody stem, it is included in this list because it is one of the thirteen plants of the Celtic tree calendar. The sacred plant of Arianrhod (Ariadne) possesses great inherent magical potential and is actively used in magic, sorcery, and healing. A symbol of immortality. A plant of Shi. The constellation Northern Crown supposedly represents a wreath of ivy thrown into the sky. Among the Celts, this constellation is the Castle of Arianrhod, a door between the human world and the world of Shi. A wreath of ivy, or a braid of ivy adorning the hair, preserves sobriety of mind and saves people from oblivion when meeting the Gods of Shi. Therefore, the plant is an essential attribute of the priests of these Gods.
Grapevine
A plant associated with Branwen (Aphrodite), symbolizing the Autumn Equinox. Used in magic in dedication and initiation rituals, as it represents the "blade of the sword," a thin barrier between the animal nature of mortal humans and their immortal spirit (for example, wine as a symbol of Christ's blood in the communion ritual). The ash of a burned grapevine is used as a "key" to the realm of darkness, Hades, the abode of lost Spirits, those who have lost the opportunity for reincarnation, rebirth, without reaching liberation. In this sense, the grapevine is similar to blackberry, and where it does not grow in the wild, it is substituted with it both in mythology and ritual. It is often used in magic in conjunction with ivy.
Reed
Or reed (not to be confused with bulrush, often called reed), is associated with Pwll (Pluto). The plant of Samhain - the Night of Spirits. The thick roots of the reed, resembling tree roots, led the Celts to consider the reed as the dwelling of a hidden dryad. This discrepancy in sizes of its above-ground and underground parts made the reed a symbol of the underworld (not to be confused with Hades), the place from which the spirit is reborn through the cauldron of Cerridwen. A reed wand is used in the ritual of priestly initiation of the first degree. The sound of a reed pipe opens the gates of the underworld and protects from its guardians (the guardians do not harm the entrant as long as the pipe sounds). Originally, the Scottish bagpipe was created as a tool of cunning to allow the living to speak with those not yet reborn (or with the Gods of the underworld) under the protection of the pipe's sound. The reed wand is also a symbol of royal authority. Initially, the wand showed that the claimant had passed initiation in the underworld and had the right to rule in the sublunary world.
Maple
A tree of solar-Martian nature. Represents the host of Light. By and large, similar to ash, but its power is aggressive and effective. Maple is therefore used to create barriers against Darkness. A solar disk carved from maple and hung above a door, maple steps at the entrance to a house, door jambs made of this wood - all these are protections against malevolent forces, often used in ritual constructions dedicated to bright, solar deities. Maple was used in building bridges across running water. Running water is an obstacle to dark forces, and maple prevented these forces from using the bridge. Maple branches covering a stable, or inserted into walls, protect livestock from the evil eye and curses. A blunted maple arrow kills undead. Fermented maple sap drink - the sacred wine of sun worshippers. Bread is baked on maple leaves to transfer the power of the Sun to the loaf and remove any potential negative energy from the dough. Maple (and its parts) is actively used in healing practices.
Spruce
The sacred tree of the Hunter in his dark, aggressive aspect as the God of Death, guide to the realm of Death. The Hut on Chicken Legs - the dwelling of Baba Yaga, is built from spruce logs and stands in a dense spruce forest, which perfectly describes the qualities of this tree. Forest spirits, leshies, live in the spruce forest. With death, spruce is associated in many cultures - funeral pyres were made from spruce logs, coffins were fashioned from spruce boards (but one of the five boards had to be of maple). Simultaneously, spruce symbolizes the sacramental meaning of Death as liberation, purification, mystery, opposing birth in the Wheel of Life. Spruce (branches) are used as protection against the wrath or malicious pranks of the Hunter, i.e., at home - against storms and hurricanes, in crops - against hail. But using trunks in construction is not allowed - the Hunter will be angered and strike the structure with lightning. Similarly, spruce should not be used for stoking a stove. However, a forest bonfire of dried spruce will ensure the favor of the Hunter. It's best to camp under a spruce in the forest, as it protects from the night games of spirits. But it's better not to seek shelter under a spruce during a storm. Scythes are made from spruce sticks - this may associate the scythe with Death in Western tradition. In healing, spruce is used to treat illnesses under the dominion of the Hunter.
Juniper
Juniper wood is used for the spindle of Mokosh - the Slavic Goddess of Fate. While not commonly used in magic, juniper is abundantly present in various witchcraft rituals and ceremonies. Juniper is used for fumigation to banish the undead, rid oneself of illnesses, or those caused by the undead. Talismans for good luck are made from juniper roots. To ensure a successful hunt, wooden overlays are made for hunting bows or even bows are entirely made of juniper. Also, a dwelling for small forest spirits. Witches like to plant juniper around their homes so their little helpers are always close by.
