Herbs and Folklore of the Summer Solstice

As Summer Solstice approaches, we look at the history and traditions associated with herbs at this time of year.

On 21st June, the Summer Solstice, the sun reaches its highest point and it is the longest day of the year. This powerful moment of warmth and light has long been associated with fertility, growth, and abundance. Unsurprisingly, it holds a deep connection to plants and herbs, believed to be at the peak of their potency at this time.

Here we explore just a few of the herbs associated with Midsummer and delve into the traditions and folklore that surround them.

🌻 Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus)

Sunflowers are often seen as symbols of the Summer Solstice. As young plants, they are heliotropic—turning to face the sun as it moves across the sky, from east in the morning to west by sunset. Their name comes from the Greek ‘Helios’ (sun) and ‘Anthos’ (flower), with ‘annuus’ from Latin meaning annual. With their bright golden faces, they represent warmth, strength, and resilience—qualities celebrated at Midsummer.

✨ St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Often harvested on or around St. John’s Day (24th June), St. John’s Wort is steeped in midsummer lore. Known historically as ‘chase devil’, it was used to ward off evil spirits believed to be more active on this magical night. Revered by the Celts for bringing protection, peace, and prosperity, it remains a cherished herb today for supporting low mood and soothing the skin when infused into oils.

🌼 Ladies Bedstraw (Galium verum)

Said to be at its most vital during the Solstice, Ladies Bedstraw has a sweet honey scent and soft yellow blooms. In medieval times, it was used in bedding for its insect-repelling qualities and gentle support during pregnancy. According to folklore, on Midsummer’s Night, its flowers would transform into fairies—a lovely reminder of nature’s enchantment. It also plays a key role in supporting pollinators.

💜 Lavender (Lavandula spp.)

Harvested traditionally at Solstice, Lavender has long been used for its healing and protective properties. In Midsummer rituals, it was often blended with chamomile, mugwort, and rose petals to attract fairies and elves. Its soothing scent continues to be a favourite in herbal baths, sleep pillows, and skincare.

🌿 Mugwort (Artemisia spp.)

Mugwort holds a powerful place in Solstice lore. Thought to heighten dreams and intuition, it was burned or worn to reveal mysteries during the shortest night. Its name connects to the Greek goddess Artemis, protector of women and associated with the moon—highlighting its deep connection to the subconscious and spiritual realms.

🔥 Mullein (Verbascum spp.)

Traditionally burned in Midsummer bonfires, Mullein was thought to protect against wandering spirits. With its tall stalks and soft leaves, it was a symbol of connection between earth and spirit—a living candle of sorts in Solstice ceremonies.

🌸 Other Celebrated Summer Herbs

Many other herbs were traditionally gathered at Solstice, when they were believed to hold the peak of their medicinal strength. These included:

• Chamomile – calming and anti-inflammatory

• Calendula – soothing and brightening for skin

• Fennel – digestive and protective

• Hemp – sacred and healing

• Rosemary & Thyme – for clarity and purification

• Meadowsweet – fever-reducing and aromatic

• Verbena – considered sacred in ancient Rome

• Sage – for wisdom and cleansing

• Mint – cooling and energising

• Elder – long associated with feminine power

• Roses – symbols of love, beauty, and spiritual insight

These herbs were often dried, stored, and used in tinctures, oils, teas, and ritual blends, capturing the Solstice sun’s power for use throughout the year.

🌞 Honouring the Light, Preserving the Magic

The Summer Solstice is a time to honour light, growth, and nature's abundance. By harvesting and working with herbs during this season, we’re not only preserving their physical properties but also connecting with the age-old wisdom and traditions of our ancestors.

So whether you take a walk in the wild, dry herbs from your garden, or light a Solstice candle with lavender and mugwort, remember: this is a time to celebrate the life-giving power of the sun and the green gifts it brings.

Wishing you a bright and magical Solstice from us all at Herbal Apothecary! 🌿☀️