Funeral Herbs

Basil

• Basil, once called the "royal herb," is a member of the mint family. It symbolizes protection of the deceased's journey into the after-world, and symbolizes the love between them and those left behind. Ancient pagan societies burned basil during funeral rituals to bring courage and strength to the surviving friends and family.

Lavender

• Lavender, historically known as the "herb of love," is an aromatic herb and member of the mint family. Lavender is believed to help surviving family hold on to their memories and bring them and the deceased peace of mind. Pagan rituals used lavender during funeral ceremonies as well as during marriage ceremonies.

Parsley

• Parsley is an herb that has been used for centuries to symbolize good luck in the afterworld. During funeral services, it is used to decorate tombs and burial sites. This common peppery herb was also used in ancient times to ward off drunkenness, although its effectiveness has never been proven.

Rosemary

• Rosemary is a popular herb used in many rituals including funerals. Rosemary symbolizes friendship, purification and happiness. For centuries, rosemary was thrown into graves for remembrance of those who have passed. Pagans use rosemary sprigs tied with ribbons as favors for guests to remember the deceased. Uses of rosemary also included curing ailments of the nervous system.

Sage

• Sage is a healing herb used in funeral rituals that symbolizes wisdom and purification. Sage is an herb use by pagans to purify areas. They were burned and used with smudge sticks to purify cremation sites, burial grounds, and even to remove negative energies of homes of the deceased.