Sprinkling Rosemary at Your Doorway in Spring Attracts Luck and Spiritual Protection – Experts Reveal the Origins of This Centuries-Old Ritual
During periods of transition, many people sprinkle rosemary across thresholds and doorways – but what does this historic ritual mean? Experts weigh in
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With the Lunar New Year officially underway and spring on the horizon, we've entered a period of exciting transition – so it's only natural that you might want to bring a little extra luck into your home right now.
According to herbalists and spiritual experts, there are plenty of ways to welcome in peace and good fortune, and they're simpler than you might expect. In fact, one herb is all you need – and that's rosemary.
What Does Sprinkling Rosemary Across Your Doorway Do?
Home cleansing rituals have been used for generations – often to ward off negative energy and preserve balance inside the home. Rosemary, however, is specifically associated with protection.
'Rosemary carries a long history of purification and protection across many cultures, and energetically it bridges both the upper and lower chakras – supporting mental clarity while also grounding and strengthening the root,' explains Intuitive Healer Antoinette Chirinos. 'Sprinkling rosemary at your doorway makes sense because the doorway is the entrance to the home. It’s the place where energy comes in.'
Where Did the Ritual Come From?
The symbolic power of rosemary dates back to ancient folk customs, and it was initially used not only to purify spaces but also to enhance memory. Gradually, it became a way to ward off negative energy and even sickness.
'Households used to place sprigs of rosemary above doorways or scatter the herb across their floors to ward off unwanted spirits, illnesses, and even thieves,' says Joanne Jones, Founder and CEO at Trusted Psychics. 'Placing the plant across a junction like this creates a physical and spiritual line, filtering what passes through the door.'
Tips For Practising This Ritual
Nowadays, many people choose to sprinkle rosemary along their doorways during periods of transition, such as at the beginning of each month.
'When people do this at the beginning of the month, it can be a way to reset the energy and start fresh with protection and clear intentions,' says Antoinette.
To try it out for yourself, you can use fresh rosemary – which carries a stronger scent – or dried sprigs, which can be easier to scatter.
Experts recommend sprinkling the rosemary carefully along thresholds, whether outside your door for protection, or inside to maintain balance and calm. They also emphasize a sense of intention throughout the ritual, which can include affirmations.
'Focus on a clear sentence in your mind as you prepare the herb,' suggests Joanne. 'One example is, "may this home remain peaceful and protected".'
If you don't fancy leaving rosemary in your doorways, however, you can also steep the sprigs in hot water, leave the mixture to cool, and use it to rinse your doorstep. Hanging dried herb bundles above doorframes is another simple alternative.
Plus, if you're looking to add some spiritual protection into your daily routine, experts say that rosemary can be used even more regularly, too.
'I use rosemary when I clean my home,' says Antoinette. 'After cleaning, I sprinkle rosemary in the corners for protection. Corners can hold heavy or stagnant energy, so this helps keep the space clear and strong.'
What to Shop
Every keen herbalist needs a few herb garden ideas to kick things off, and this charming pot and tray set is perfect. (And if you're looking for gardening advice, check out our guide on how to grow rosemary.)
If this spiritual ritual has inspired you to reorganize your herbs and spices, you might be hunting for some new pantry storage ideas – and this expandable spice rack is ideal.
While rosemary symbolises protection, lavender is associated with serenity and devotion – so there's no better addition to your home than this live wreath, which elegantly combines the two.
Want to bring the fresh scent of rosemary into your home without opening your spice drawer? A scented candle is a brilliant choice. This soy wax option is plant-based and cruelty free.
Transform your spice collection with these Scandi-style glass jars, which boast rustic wood lids and matching spoons. They'll bring instant flair to your kitchen or pantry.
This reed diffuser uses essential oils to bring a sense of calm to any space. It offers notes of eucalyptus, rosemary, mandarin and bergamot, and it can release the scent for up to two months.
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