Although any aromatic herb is ideal for holiday decorations, wreaths,
and table centerpieces, four have biblical links with Christmas. Many crafts
shops and florists carry these dried herb plants along with the baskets,
bowls, and other trimmings needed for decorating.
ENGLISH PENNYROYAL--This perennial herb was said to have been
placed in the manger on the night of the Christ child's birth and burst
into bloom the moment the child was born. English pennyroyal adds a fragrant
aroma to wreaths but can be toxic if ingested, so keep out of reach of
pets and children. It is often used in potpourri and cosmetics and is native
to southern Europe and western Asia.
ROSEMARY--One of the most beautiful and fragrant of the seasoned
herbs, rosemary, according to folklore, will bring happiness for the coming
year to anyone who smells it on Christmas Eve.
During the flight into Egypt, Mary spread her child's garments on a
rosemary plant to dry. The flowers, originally white, turned blue and acquired
the sweet scent they have today.
Another legend claims that at midnight on Jan. 5, the "old Christmas
Eve," rosemary plants will simultaneously burst into flower in celebration
of Christmas. Rosemary plants add attractiveness and fragrance to holiday
wreaths and are especially suitable for tussie mussies, which are small
bouquets made with dried flowers, doilies, and ribbons for use at individual
place settings on the holiday dinner table.
WILD THYME--This pungent herb, a member of the mint family, was
collected from the fields outside of Bethlehem to make a soft bed for Mary
during the birth of her child. It is thought to have antiseptic properties
and was burned as incense later in history by the Greeks. Today thyme is
a popular culinary seasoning but can be used in dried flower arrangements,
bouquets, and potpourri during the holiday season.
LAVENDER--The Virgin Mary is said to have dried her newborn's
swaddling clothes by spreading them on a bed of wild lavender. This herb,
also of the mint family, grows as a small evergreen shrub. It has grey-green
leaves, light purple flowers, and a sweet floral scent. When dried it can
be used whole for wreaths and centerpieces or crushed to use in sachets
for closets or drawers or to scent a bath.
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University of Vermont
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