One of my favorite parts of my craft and journey with witchcraft has been herbalism. And with Litha and Lammas right around the corner, I thought it would be fun to share my sunflower guide and how we can use it magically!

Sunflower history & information

• According to evidence, sunflowers were cultivated around 3000 B.C. by native Americans in current-day Arizona and New Mexico.
• Among native American tribes, sunflower seeds were ground up and used as flour, and some tribes would mix the flour with various vegetables. 
• Medicinally, Sunflowers helped treat snakebites. Native Americans used the oil from sunflowers for skin and hair and the dried stalks for building materials. Native American’s also incorporated the seeds in ceremonies. 
• In the 18th century, sunflowers grew in popularity, and by 1830 their oil was commercially manufactured. 
• During the 19th century, sunflower seeds made their way to the united states and were commercial food for poultry. In 1930, Canada created the first official sunflower breeding program.

Sunflower correspondences

Latin name: Helianthus annuus (Greek “helios” for sun and “anthos” for flower)
Zodiac: Leo
Solar System: Sun
Deities: Apollo, Demeter, Modron
Tarot: Strength, Sun
Element: Fire
Energy: Yang
Intentions: balance, cheerfulness, clarity, energy, fertility, happiness, harmony, luck, peace, self-work, sorrow, strength, wisdom, wishes.

Sunflower uses

• If you sleep with a sunflower under your bed, the sunflower will reveal the truth you seek.
• Plant sunflowers outside of your home to invite positivity and joy into your home.
• Take a ritual bath or eat sunflower seeds to encourage fertility.
• Use sunflower oil as a carrier oil in magical spells for protection, fertility, health, and wisdom.

Sunflower spells & rituals

• Sunflower seed divination
• Summer energy spell
• Sunflower psychic attack protection
• Magical fire oil
• Sunflower balm and body scrub
• Money draw sunflower seeds

And there you have it, friends! Creating this post was super fun and interesting to research. Knowing all this information makes the impact and power of using sunflowers even stronger.

Have you used sunflower for magick or herbalism treatments? Share about your experiences in the comments below!