Properties of a Heliotrope

Plant vs. Stone

• Both the Heliotrope plant and the Heliotrope stone (also called bloodstone) were named for the Greek god of the sun, Helios. There is also a legend that the Heliotrope stone became known as the bloodstone or "martyr's stone" after being bled upon by Jesus at the Crucifixion. While the stone is considered to have both physical healing and magical properties, the plant is known more for its natural healing properties.

Physical Properties

• The stone is dark green in color with red, orange, or white spots across its surface. It is part of the chalcedony variety of quartz with a hardness of seven (on the Mohs' scale of mineral hardness) and a naturally bright luster. The plant is a flowering shrub, which can grow over 6.5 feet tall and carries bunches of small violet, purple, pink, white, or blue flowers. Both the flowers and the leaves of the Heliotrope plant carry a strong scent reminiscent of vanilla. Some parts of the Heliotrope plant are poisonous if eaten, while others can cause irritations in sensitive skin.

Healing Properties

• Bloodstone is considered a blood purifier and body detoxifier. Historically, it was placed on wounds to stop the bleeding. It is used to stimulate the immune system, aid circulation of the blood, and cleanse the liver, kidney, spleen and intestines in modern holistic healing practices. It is also powdered and given as an aphrodisiac in Indian medicine. While the Heliotrope plant is also used for purifying and healing wounds, it is used more to cure inflammation and fever, and as a natural diuretic.

Metaphysical Properties

• While the Heliotrope plant is used mostly for natural healing, the stone is used equally for healing as well as metaphysical purposes. It is said to banish evil, heighten intuition, and assist in past life regression through dreams. It attracts money and prosperity, helps bullied children, and balances goddess-themed rituals.