Herbs for Luck: 12 Garden Plants to Welcome Fortune & Prosperity
With St. Patrick's Day coming up, I thought I'd share some of my favorite herbs believed to attract a bit of luck! Herbs have been used for centuries to draw in good fortune and positive vibes. And while there's no guarantee these plants will bring you pots of gold, I figure they can't hurt as we welcome the wearing o' the green.
Whether you want to boost your financial flow, find romance, or just shift energy happier at home, certain herbs have been tied to good luck over the years. I like to keep these four-leaf clover lookalikes around for an extra dose of chance during chaotic times.
Understanding these herbs thought to sway fortune's tide is the first step to working them into your space. In this post, we'll spotlight my top 12 herbs for luck, how I use them, and important safety stuff to know before trying them yourself. No rainbows or unicorns here, but a bit of belief combined with some sensibility as we chase the allure of the charmed life!
Herbs for Luck: Fast Facts
- People have turned to certain plants to invite fortune for ages - basil, aloe plant and cinnamon are prime examples.
- While their ability to directly deliver luck is unproven, herbs may positively shift mindsets and attitudes open to good vibes.
- Practice informed safety precautions when using herbs - know properties, dosages, and possible interactions.
Understanding Luck and Herbs
Luck is a concept that has been around for centuries, and many people believe that certain herbs can bring good fortune and prosperity into their lives.
While there is no guarantee that the use of herbs will bring you luck, incorporating them into your life can help promote positivity and well-being.
Herbs have been used for centuries for their medicinal and spiritual properties. Different herbs have different properties and can be used for various purposes. Some herbs are believed to bring good luck and prosperity, while others are used for healing and protection.
Using herbs for luck can be as simple as carrying a small pouch of herbs with you or burning them as incense.
Some people also use herbs in their cooking or brew them into herbal teas to promote positive energy. It is important to note that while herbs can be helpful, they should not be used as a replacement for professional medical advice.
What Are the Most Powerful Herbs for Luck?
The top 5 herbs traditionally used for attracting good luck and fortune are:
- Basil: Basil is a protective and attractive herb that is associated with the sun, fire, and expressive energy. It is believed to ward off evil, heal relationships, and create abundance in the spiritual and physical realms.
- Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a popular spice that is believed to bring good luck and prosperity. It is often used in money spells and is believed to attract wealth and success.
- Clover: Clover is a symbol of good luck and is often used in love spells. It is believed to bring good fortune, prosperity, and happiness.
- Mint: Mint is a refreshing herb that is believed to bring good luck and prosperity. It is often used in money spells and is believed to attract wealth and success.
- Rosemary: Rosemary is a protective herb that is believed to ward off evil and negative energy. It is also believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
Ready to invite some good fortune into your life? Read below for all 12 Herbs for Good Luck!
12 Herbs for Luck
If you're looking to attract good luck into your life, incorporating herbs into your daily routine may help. Here is a list of herbs that are the most common for luck.
1. Basil (Sweet Basil)
This aromatic herb has long been considered a bringer of good fortune and prosperity. Walk through any Italian neighborhood and you'll often spot basil in windowsills - not just for cooking, but for luck! In Hindu homes, basil is treasured as a lucky plant that brings good fortune. Want to try this tradition? Keep a pot of basil by your front door or kitchen window. Just give it plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil, and my favorite fertilizer for basil and it'll thrive.
2. Holy Basil (Tulsi)
Known as Tulsi in India, holy basil holds a special place in Hindu traditions as a sacred lucky herb. Many believe it brings divine blessings and protection to any home where it grows. People often keep it near their entrance or brew it as a calming tea. Like its cousin sweet basil, it loves warm spots and just needs moderate watering to flourish.
3. Cinnamon
This familiar spice has quite a story - it was once considered more precious than gold! In many traditions, cinnamon is believed to attract abundance and good fortune. Here's a fun tradition: some people sprinkle a bit of cinnamon around their doorway at the start of each month for luck. You can use either the sticks or ground cinnamon for this practice.
4. Nutmeg
This warm, fragrant spice has been treasured for centuries as a lucky charm for prosperity. One of the oldest traditions is carrying a whole nutmeg in your wallet or purse to attract wealth - just remember to wrap it in a bit of cloth first! You can also add a pinch to your morning coffee or tea while setting your intentions for the day.
5. Mint
This fresh and invigorating versatile herb isn't just for tea - it's long been associated with bringing in prosperity and good fortune. Mediterranean cultures particularly value it for welcoming luck into their homes. Mint grows like crazy, so keep it in pots rather than your garden, and place it's refreshing scent near your workspace to invite success.
6. Bay Laurel
In ancient Greece, bay laurel crowned the victors, and it's still considered a herb of success today. Many people keep a few dried bay leaves under their pillow or tuck them into their wallet for luck with financial gain. You can grow bay as a small tree or bush - it's pretty easygoing as long as it has good drainage.
7. Chamomile
This gentle flower has been bringing calm and good fortune to homes for thousands of years. The Egyptians considered it so special they dedicated it to their sun god! Today, people plant it near their front door or add it to relaxing baths for luck. It's easy to grow in sunny spots and makes a lovely garden plant.
8. Sage
A traditional herb of wisdom and good fortune, sage has been used by Native American cultures for centuries. People often burn sage leaves to clear away negative energy and welcome in good luck. This hardy plant is super easy to grow - just give it lots of sun and don't overwater.
9. Rosemary
This fragrant herb has been associated with luck and remembrance since ancient times. Greeks believed it helped students remember their studies - talk about good luck for exams! Many people keep a sprig in their wallet or purse for financial fortune. It's a sun-loving plant that does best in well-draining soil.
10. Clove
These buds have a delightful aroma and have been traded as precious good luck charms for centuries. An old tradition suggests carrying three whole cloves in a small green pouch for luck. You can use them whole or ground - either way, their warm scent is said to bring good fortune.
11. Thyme
This tiny-leaved herb was given to medieval knights for courage and luck - pretty cool history! Today, people plant it along their walkways to bring continuous good fortune to their home. It's a tough little plant that's perfect for rock gardens and sunny spots. Visit my How to Harvest Thyme post for some quick tips!
12. Irish Moss
Despite its name, this lucky charm isn't actually a moss - it's a seaweed - so not really an herb either but worth mentioning! Celtic traditions consider it a powerful good luck charm, especially for travelers. Some folks carry a small piece in their pocket or car for safe journeys and good fortune.
Incorporating these herbs into your daily routine can help attract good luck and prosperity. Whether you use them in cooking, carry a fresh sprig with you, or use them in spells and rituals, these herbs have been used for centuries to bring good fortune to those who seek it.
4 Ways to Use Herbs for Luck
Using herbs for luck is a common practice in many cultures. Here are a few ways to use herbs to attract good luck and positive energy into your life.
Herbal Sachets
One way to use herbs for luck is to create herbal sachets. These are small bags filled with herbs that you can carry with you or place in your home. Here are some herbs that are commonly used in sachets for luck:
- Basil: attracts money and success
- Mint: attracts prosperity and abundance
- Rosemary: attracts love and protection
- Lavender: attracts peace and tranquility
- Cinnamon: attracts wealth and prosperity
To create a sachet, simply place your chosen herbs in a small bag or pouch. Essential oils can be added for an extra boost of fragrance. You can carry it with you or place it in your home in a location that feels right to you.
Herbal Infusions
Another way to use herbs for luck is to create herbal infusions. These are teas made with herbs that have properties that attract luck and positive energy. Here are some herbs that are commonly used in infusions for luck:
- Chamomile: attracts abundance and prosperity
- Ginger root: attracts success and good fortune
- Lemon balm: attracts happiness and joy
- Sage: attracts wisdom and protection
- Thyme: attracts courage and strength
To create an herbal infusion, simply steep your chosen herbs in hot water for a few minutes. Strain the herbs and enjoy your tea. You may also add milk, honey or my lavender sugar cubes.
Herbal Incense
Herbal incense is another way to use herbs for luck. Burning certain herbs can help to purify and add positivity to your space and remove negative energies. Here are some herbs that are commonly used in incense for luck:
- Frankincense: attracts success and prosperity
- Myrrh: attracts abundance and good luck
- Sandalwood: attracts peace and tranquility
- Patchouli: attracts love and wealth
- Dragon's blood: attracts protection and strength
To use herbal incense, simply light a small amount of your chosen herb and let the smoke fill your space. Be sure to use a fire-safe container and never leave burning incense unattended.
Wallet Blessing
An ancient practice for attracting prosperity involves placing herbs in your wallet or purse. Choose a fresh, whole nutmeg (or other herbs listed below) and hold it in your hands for a moment, focusing on your intentions for financial abundance. Place it in a small cloth or the bill compartment of your wallet.
Tradition suggests replacing the herb each new moon (monthly) to keep its prosperous energy fresh and active. This simple ritual combines the spice's historical value as a precious trading commodity with its reputation for drawing wealth and good fortune.
Popular herbs for wallet blessings include:
- Cinnamon: Either a small stick or a pinch of powder wrapped in green paper. Cinnamon is especially potent for quick money and career advancement.
- Bay Leaves: Write your financial goal on a bay leaf and keep it in your wallet. Some traditions suggest replacing it every full moon.
- Basil: A few dried basil leaves can be wrapped in a small piece of green fabric. A basil plant is particularly associated with steady income and business success.
- Mint: Dried mint leaves (or mint flowers) are said to keep money flowing and prevent wealth from stagnating.
Growing Your Own Luck Herbs
If you want to attract more luck and prosperity into your life, growing your own herbs is a great way to start.
Not only is it a fun and rewarding hobby, but it can also help you connect with nature and bring positive energy into your home. Sharing starter plants or cuttings from your herb garden with friends can spread good fortune even further.
Here are some tips for growing your own luck herbs:
Indoor Herb Gardening
Indoor herb gardening is a great option if you live in an apartment or don't have access to an outdoor space.
Many herbs can be grown indoors, as long as they receive enough sunlight and water. Here are some herbs that are easy to grow indoors and can bring good luck and positive energy into your home:
- Basil: This fragrant common herb is said to attract wealth and happiness. It's also easy to grow and can be used in a variety of dishes.
- Mint: Mint is known for its calming properties and is said to attract good luck and prosperity. It's also great for making infused water, tea or adding to cocktails.
- Rosemary: Rosemary is a powerful herb that is said to protect against negative energy and promote healing. It's also a great addition to many savory dishes and my Rosemary Lavender cookies!
When growing herbs indoors, make sure to place them in a sunny spot and water them regularly. You can also use a fertilizer to help them grow.
Outdoor Herb Gardening
If you have access to an outdoor space, outdoor herb gardening can be a fun and rewarding way to grow your own lucky plants.
Here are some herbs that are easy to grow outdoors and can bring good luck and positive energy into your life:
- Sage: Sage is a powerful herb that is said to promote wisdom and have protective qualities. It's also great for adding flavor to many dishes.
- Lavender: Lavender is known for its calming properties and is said to attract love and happiness. It's also great for making sachets or adding to bathwater.
- Thyme: Thyme is one of the good luck plants that is said to promote courage and attract good luck. It's also great for adding flavor to many dishes.
Growing lucky herbs outdoors is pretty straightforward, but even experienced gardeners can hit some bumps along the way. Choose a sunny spot and keep up with watering, but don't stress if you make a few mistakes at first - we all do! If you're new to herb gardening and want to avoid common pitfalls, check out my guide on "Top Mistakes to Avoid in Your Herb Garden" for some helpful tips. Natural pest control and a bit of patience will go a long way in creating your lucky herb garden.
Safety Notes About Herbs
Before using any herbs, it's important to remember that herbs can be potent and should be used thoughtfully. While many herbs are commonly used in cooking and tradition, always check with your doctor before using herbs, especially if you:
- Nursing or pregnant women
- Take any medications
- Have any health conditions
- Plan to use them with children
When exploring herbs, start small and pay attention to how you respond. Some herbs can cause allergic reactions or interact with medications. Research herbs using reliable medical sources, and when in doubt, consult a healthcare professional.
For herb-related health questions or concerns, visit the FDA website or speak with your healthcare provider. This guide focuses on the traditional and cultural uses of herbs rather than medical benefits.
Note: This article shares traditional folklore about lucky herbs and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lucky Herbs
Herbs and luck can be a powerful combination. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about the power of herbs and using them to bring luck and positive energy into your life.
It depends on the culture and tradition you are following, but some of the most popular herbs commonly associated as lucky herbs include four-leaf clovers, lavender, basil, and rosemary.
Four-leaf clovers bring good luck because they are rare; in fact, it's estimated that there is only a one in 10,000 chance of finding one! Lavender has been used for centuries to attract luck and love, as well as for its calming effects.
Basil is believed to bring good fortune to those who carry it with them, while rosemary has traditionally been used in spells to attract luck, financial success, and love.
No matter which herb you choose to bring you luck, remember that it's not the herb itself but your own positive attitude and belief that will create the greatest good fortune in your life.
It's important to cultivate a mindset of optimism, gratitude, and abundance to bring luck into your life.
Several traditional herbs are known to support manifestation practices, each bringing its own unique energy to help bring your desires into reality. Sage, often called the "manifestation herb," is particularly powerful for clearing negative energy and creating space for your intentions to flourish. Lavender helps calm the mind for better focus during manifestation work, while bay leaves are often used by writing intentions on them before burning or keeping them under your pillow. Rosemary strengthens your connection to your goals and aids in mental clarity, and mint is traditionally used for manifesting prosperity and abundance. These herbs can be used in various ways - burned as incense, carried in sachets, added to baths, or made into teas while setting your intentions.
Several powerful herbs symbolize and support new beginnings, with sage being one of the most prominent for fresh starts and new chapters in life. Native American traditions particularly value white sage for cleansing negative energy and making way for new opportunities, while garden sage represents wisdom in starting anew. Rosemary is another significant herb for new beginnings, traditionally used to break free from old patterns and invite fresh energy. Mint also embodies new starts with its refreshing properties and ability to represent awakening and renewal. Lemon balm, with its bright, citrusy nature, helps clear the way for new opportunities while lifting spirits and encouraging optimism. These herbs can be used in various ways to support your fresh start - burned as incense, added to cleansing baths, kept in sachets, or grown in a garden to symbolize your new beginning.
Looking for more herb magic? Be sure to visit my recent blog posts: Herbs for Love shares romantic blends and potions passed down through generations, while Herbs for Success uncovers traditional herbal practices believed to attract prosperity and good fortune. And don't miss Herbs for Protection, which reveals centuries-old beliefs about herbs used to ward off negative energy and create spiritual safeguards.
Well friends, with challenging times lately for many, I figure it can't hurt to bring in some good luck herbs, even if scientific evidence is scant. Are plants like basil actually proven to reverse fortunes overnight? Not exactly. But enveloping myself in the positive energies from fragrant greenery and flower gardens has a way of soothing the soul and possibly turning things around if I'm having a streak of bad luck.
Peace seems to bloom through things as simple as inhaling the aroma of fragrant leaves during cooking or spotting early spring buds on the cusp of rebirth. No sudden windfalls manifested since sharing this pre-St. Patrick's Day...yet! But focusing on the ability it gives us to uplift each other feels pretty darn fortunate already. What do you say we grow some positive change along with our herb patches this season? May we all harvest more joy than we sow!
Good luck my gardening friends!
