Parsley Moon

Yesterday's full moon goes by many names, among them: Fruit Moon, Corn Moon, Barley Moon, Green Corn Moon, Grain Moon.

But this one appealed: Parsley moon.
Apparently, when parsley is gathered under the full moon, Venus is said to smile upon the gatherer, bestowing a blessing in affairs of the heart, or any kind of love, whether for partner, parent, sibling, child, or friend.

It was believed to be a favourite of Persephone, and folklore suggests it should not be cut with a blade, lest it harm their love. Better to pinch off what you need, smile, and whisper a blessing to whoever you know who needs more love in their life.

Its use as a garnish may have come from the Romans, who placed parsley on their plates to protect the food from contamination and ate it to sweeten their breath after meals. They were also rumoured to tuck it into their togas for protection and wear it on their heads to protect them from inebriation.


Healing/Magical uses include:

• Helps to reduce water retention and bloating (oedema). It’s a natural diuretic, which helps to eliminate excess fluid without depleting the body of potassium.
• Aids in balancing blood sugar, helping with long-term weight balance. Can prevent the degenerative effects of diabetes on the liver.
• May help to modulate the immune system. Parsley essential oil has been shown to suppress an over-stimulated immune response making it a key player in the fight against allergies, autoimmune and chronic inflammatory disorders.
• Helps to reduce the pain and swelling associated with arthritis. Parsley has strong anti-inflammatory as well as anti-arthritic properties and can significantly suppress swelling in the joint.
• Parsley is a good source of one of the most important B vitamins: folic acid, and an excellent source of vitamin C.
•  In a ritual bath and in ritual incense associated with communication with spirits of the dead.
• Wearing or eating parsley is supposed to protect against drunkenness and increase strength, vitality and passion.