Kitchen Witch: Sunflower

(Helianthus annuus)

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Energies: Protection, success

Lore:

Sunflowers were viewed as symbols of the sun by the ancient Incas of Peru. Gold crowns inspired by this flower were reportedly worn by solar priestesses during rituals.

Many Mexican gardens contain sunflowers, since their presence is thought to confer “luck.” Women still eat sunflower seeds for help in conceiving a child. In the United States, the seeds are gathered at sunset and eaten to gain a wish.

Magical uses:

Hold your hands over a small bowl of roasted sunflower seeds. Visualize them bursting with the energies of the sun—protection, success,
triumph. Then eat them to bring these powers inside yourself. Or, add toprotective salads and other dishes.