Adam & Eve Root (Aplectrum hyemale)
Folk Names: Putty Root
Description: Aplectrum hyemale is an orchid preferring moist soils and deciduous woodlands. It can be found from southern Canada south to Arkansas, Tennessee, and Georgia. The roots occur in a string of globular corms (type of root) from which new leaves and flower stalks appear. Adam and Eve root possesses a single, broad, parallel-veined leaf four to seven inches long in the summer and through the winter, which disappears when flowers develop. The flowers appear May through June. They are tinged with yellow, green, or purple, with a whitish, crinkly-edged lip.
Effects: varies
Planet: Venus
Element: Water
Associated Deities: none specific but assume any deity in charge of loving unions
Traditions:
none noted
Magic:
The roots may be carried at all time to attract love. Adam and Eve root may be given to couples to ensure continued happiness. To ensure fidelity, the husband receives the female root, while the wife accepts the male root.
To get rid of competition in love, carry the roots sewn into a small bag. Another way to disperse the competition for someone’s affection is to split a walnut, removing the meat. Place the roots and a spider's web inside, and seal it with wax. Wrap it in new handkerchief, and place this charm in your lover's pocket. So long as he or she does not find it, no rival will bother you. This of course borders on manipulation, which some paths may find offensive and morally objectionable.
Known Combinations:
none noted
Medical Indications: Parts used:
none noted
Nutrition:
Adam and Eve root may be used as an emergency food, in other words, if you are starving. The corms are edible if boiled for twenty minutes.
Mercantile Uses:
none noted