Herb of the Week: Yellow Dock Root

Yellow Dock Root (Rumex crispus) is one of a few dock roots or of the rumex genus of root herbals. This one is also known commonly as Curly Dock or Narrow Dock. Yellow dock is probably one of the most commonly used medicinal roots in herbalism, mainly for liver detoxification (it's known as a purifier). And what is one of the liver's functions? Digestion! So, it's very common to see this being used for digestive support and can help relieve constipation as a mild laxative. It also has a fairly important job in helping reverse iron deficiency anemia as it helps the body take in and use iron. It can help relieve skin irritations when applied topically (it's an anti-inflammatory) and may help alleviate respiratory issues. Use this root as a tincture or as a decoction (slowly simmered in a double boiler for about 15 minutes) which are the best ways to deliver the medicinal properties. Also, it can be dangerous to consume this raw, just FYI.

This herb, as most herbs, is considered a weed and a threat to those who own livestock as the leaves can be toxic to farm animals, which is unfortunate as the roots are very helpful. This weed tends to be very hardy and loves to grow in sown soils, fields, along roadsides, and in floodplains. It tolerates drought, flooding, and much to the chagrin of livestock owners, mowing. Apparently the seeds of this weed can last dormant and viable for 50 years.

Now, what would you expect a root to be helpful for in witchcraft? Grounding! This is a great herb to use for help with grounding yourself. It's also great to use for protection, cleansing, purification, emotional release, transformation, and personal courage/strength rituals. It's associated with the element of earth and the planets Jupiter & Saturn. It carries a feminine and receptive energy, so it can be used in anti-patriarchy rituals or as a way to connect with the divine feminine. It is also associated with the deities The Morrigan, Astarte, Isis, Luna, and Hekate/Hecate.

How will you use some yellow dock root in your herbal medicinals or witchcraft practice?