Cyclamen are a group of hardy tuberous perennials with white, pink or purple flowers that point upwards, like shuttlecocks. Species are native to the Mediterranean region: Greece, Italy, Cypress, Crete, Turkey, Israel and Lebanon. In the U.K. they flower from late winter through to early spring. They provide a hit of colour in a season where often there is none, unless the mice or squirrels dig them up to eat the tubers! The name cyclamen comes from the Latin "cyclamnos" which in turn comes from the Greek "kuklaminos" and "kuklos" which means cycle, circle, or wheel.
Sacred to Hecate, cyclamen is feminine in nature, and is associated with the element of Water, and the planet Mars.
It is a helpful plant that protects against all sorts of negative feelings and bad vibes. A plant kept in the bedroom is said to guard against nightmares and night terrors, whilst increasing libido, lust and fertility. Where it grows, it is said to prevent negative spells from taking effect. It builds joy, happiness, confidence, self-esteem and self-love; perfect for combining with a pink spell candle for all those self-care spells. The tuber withstands difficult conditions ~ think of its over-wintering success ~ therefore the cyclamen represents deep love and sincere affection. Rather confusingly, cyclamen can also be used in the opposite way; to send away someone whose affections you do not want.
The flowers can be used to ease grief, and it is said that a plant placed in the home will prevent negative spells reaching a member of the household.
CAUTION: Cyclamen should not be used medicinally/therapeutically unless you are a trained herbalist, or have experience with working with plants. It is a very powerful purgative and can cause violent purging if eaten raw. It should not be used (internally or externally) by pregnant women, in any situation, and it is poisonous to cats and fish.
Do you use cyclamen in your practice? Have you seen any this year? Maybe you grow them at home?
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