Plant Magic: A Year of Green Wisdom for Pagans & Wiccans - Sandra Kynes 2017
Aloe
In the House
January
(Aloe vera)
*Also known as medicine plant
Aloe is a perennial plant with succulent leaves that can grow up to two feet long from a center base. If you are lucky, it will produce a spike of yellow or orange flowers. Aloe is commonly kept in kitchens for first aid. The clear gel from a broken leaf is especially good for burns. A yellow sap known as bitter aloe is exuded at the base of the leaves. Bitter aloe should not be used on the skin.
In the Middle East and Egypt, aloe was regarded as a holy symbol with which to protect the home. As such, leaves were hung over doorways. In addition to protecting the home, aloe was believed to provide protection from accidents and bring good luck.
If you live in an area where it can grow outdoors, plant aloe near your front door to ward off negativity and attract good luck. Otherwise, grow it on a windowsill at a front window for the same purpose. For home protection, break open the end of a leaf and dab a little of the clear gel over each exterior doorway. When performing spells for healing, dab a little of the gel at the base of a green candle. For your esbat ritual, dab the gel on a white candle or put the whole plant on your altar to draw down the wisdom of Luna.
Aloe is associated with the element water. Its astrological influence comes from Jupiter, the moon, and Venus.