Door 22: St. John’s Wort & Mugwort – Guides Through the Dark Nights
- Dec 22, 2024
- 2 min read
Behind the 22nd door of our Advent calendar, you’ll find two more herbs to enrich your Rauhnächte incense blend: St. John’s Wort and Mugwort. Though the mantle of darkness still lies heavily over the world, these two plants can serve as gentle companions, offering you light, clarity, and protection during this time between the years.
Another Story from the Rauhnächte
Long ago, when the boundaries between the visible and invisible worlds were more palpable, a young girl named Freja sat before her family’s hearth. Outside, all was silent—the Rauhnächte had begun. Freja knew that during these nights, not only did the Wild Hunt ride across the skies, but ancestors, fae, and nature spirits also drew closer to humankind.
Though her heart trembled slightly with awe, Freja also felt a quiet curiosity. She’d heard that during these nights, people could experience vivid dreams and receive messages for the coming year. Often, the Rauhnächte brought visions that helped people make the right choices, heal inner wounds, and embark on new paths.
As the fire crackled, Freja remembered the old customs: before going to sleep, people would burn certain herbs to cleanse the air, keep evil spirits at bay, and open their minds to dreams and insights. Her grandmother had taught her that St. John’s Wort and mugwort were especially valuable during these dark nights.
The Meaning of Today’s Ingredients
St. John’s Wort: This sunny plant, which blooms in the height of summer, carries the power of light even in the depths of winter. It’s said that St. John’s Wort dispels inner shadows, uplifts the mood, and strengthens the heart. During the Rauhnächte, it can help drive away negative energies, provide comfort, and serve as a beacon of light for the soul.
Mugwort: As one of Europe’s oldest ritual herbs, mugwort has long been used for cleansing, protection, and deepening perception. Its smoke is said to enhance clairvoyant abilities, clarify dreams, and help you better understand messages from the otherworld. Mugwort acts like a silent guardian, lifting the veil before your eyes.
How to Use Your New Additions
Add a small pinch of St. John’s Wort and mugwort to your incense blend—remember, a few crumbs are often enough. As you burn them, pause and sense how the fragrance envelops you, opening your heart. Let go of the rush of daily life, listen to the whispers of the night, and allow yourself the stillness needed to receive the subtle messages of the
Rauhnächte.
An Affirmation for This Night
Speak or think the following words as the smoke surrounds you:
“I open my heart and my senses to the light in the darkness. I receive protection, healing, and clear visions. May the wisdom of the Rauhnächte flow into me, so I can step into the new year strengthened and enlightened.”
Perhaps, like Freja by her fire, you, too, will experience a dream tonight that offers guidance. Or maybe you’ll simply carry a sense of reassurance and warmth with you. St. John’s Wort and mugwort help make the unseen perceptible, guide you through the darkness, and allow you to shine a bit brighter with each lengthening day.