Herbal Tarot - Six of Swords - Vervain

Soaring Eagle

You can see the minor arcane cards in Constellation 6.

Description: Six swords are planted in a canoe in a river. A large vervain plant is stretching out towards the canoe. A full moon is in the distant sky.

Significant Details: The moon symbolizes dreams and illusions. The canoe symbolizes journeys. The swords symbolize strength and protection. The vervain symbolizes clear thinking.

Keywords: Travel, Recovery after hardship, Rite of passage, Escape

Medicinal Uses: Vervain is used for coughs, colds, and acute diarrhea. Culpeper’s Color Herbal. Vervain was called the “enchanter’s plant” as it has a long history with mysticism and magic. It was used on altars by the Romans and the Egyptians dedicated it to the goddess Isis. The Druids used vervain in their sacrifices. “According to Christian legend, vervain stemmed the bleeding from Christ’s wounds, which assured its reputation as a potent healer.” In Medieval times vervain was considered a plant of luck and was worn for protection from headaches and snakebites. It is still used for headaches, especially migraines. American Nature Guides Herbs by Anna Kruger.

My Interpretation: This is a good time to make travel plans, or escape from your busy day-to-day life. Take time to relax and enjoy life. Be careful not to fall into the illusions created by others.

Number Significance: 6 - Harmony, Social consciousness, Relaxation, Healing. The 6 of Cups is ruled by Mercury in Aquarius. Vervain is ruled by Venus. The Sixes are in Constellation 6 with the VI Lovers and XV Pan. Attraction and Division. Synergy and Separation. Exchange. Sharing and Relating. Reciprocity. Vitality. Sensuality. Connectedness. Ability to Discriminate between Good and Evil. Temptation. Obsession.

Thoughts/Points to Ponder: Where is this canoe going? It appears heavier as it leaves the card, so I believe the people are seated outside the card image.