A traditional witch broom, often referred to as a "broomstick," holds a special place in folklore and mythology, particularly associated with witches and magic. The image of a witch flying through the night sky on her broomstick has become an iconic symbol of Halloween and witchcraft. Historically, brooms were actual household cleaning tools made out of natural materials such as twigs, straw, or birch. In medieval times, these brooms were associated with spiritual cleansing and were often used in ritual practices. However, the link between witches and broomsticks can be traced back to ancient pagan beliefs. One theory suggests that the association originated from the use of brooms in fertility rituals.
Many of you will already be familiar with our Halloween activities in the countryside at Trelissick. Each year, in the copse if weather permits, we put a slight twist on the theme of the witches’ broom and make traditional besom brooms with the children who come along to the estate.
It is very important to us that we use artistic and creative ways to interpret our woodland management for an audience that may not usually take an interest in such areas, especially young people. To many, these growths are an interesting and appealing curiosity but they can also be of significant ecological importance the brooms are often inhabited by a variety of organisms apart from those that initially caused the growth, such as invertebrates and even squirrels.
One theory suggests that the association originated from the use of brooms in fertility rituals. During these rituals, women would mount a broomstick and "jump" over the fields to promote good crops. This act was believed to symbolize harmonizing with nature and invoking the fertility of the land.
Witch’s Broom: A History, Uses & How to Make a Besom
Witches are nearly always depicted with their trusty broomsticks. Brooms, also called besoms, have a long history in magic and continue to be used by witches today. Here we discuss witch broom history, magical uses and how to make a besom yourself.
Another theory suggests that the association between witches and broomsticks came from herbalism practices. It is believed that witches would apply a mixture of hallucinogenic herbs, such as mandrake or belladonna, to the handle of their broomsticks and rub it onto their bodies. This act was thought to induce a state of trance or flying sensation, leading people to believe that witches were literally flying on their broomsticks. In popular culture, the image of the witch riding a broomstick has been sensationalized and exaggerated. The broomstick is often depicted as having a long handle and bristles on one end, similar to a traditional household broom. However, modern interpretations and artistic representations have shown variations of broomstick designs, including sleek and ornate versions. In contemporary witchcraft, broomsticks still hold significance, albeit more symbolically. Witches may use broomsticks as a representation of their connection to nature, their ability to cleanse and purify energies, or as a tool for grounding and protection. Broomsticks are often used in ritual practices, such as sweeping away negative energy or creating a sacred space. Overall, the traditional witch broom holds a deep-rooted place in folklore and mythology, representing the symbiotic relationship between witches and nature, as well as the ideas of purification and flight..
Reviews for "Traditional Witch Brooms in Modern Witchcraft: Tradition vs. Innovation"
- Sarah - 2 stars - I was really excited to try out the traditional witch broom, but I was disappointed with my purchase. The broom is poorly made and feels like it's about to break apart any moment. Additionally, the bristles were falling off from the first use. I expected better quality for the price I paid.
- Jamie - 1 star - This traditional witch broom is a complete waste of money. Not only does it look cheap and tacky, but it's also extremely uncomfortable to hold and use. The handle is rough and splintered, making it painful to grip. I regret buying this broom and would not recommend it to anyone.
- Tom - 2 stars - I ordered the traditional witch broom for a costume party, but it arrived late and was not what I expected at all. The broom's bristles were tangled and uneven, and it looked nothing like the picture on the website. The quality was very poor, and I ended up having to use a different broom for my costume. Very disappointed with this purchase.
- Emma - 3 stars - While the traditional witch broom serves its purpose as a prop, I found it to be overpriced for its quality. The broom feels flimsy and not very sturdy. The handle is uncomfortable to hold, and the bristles lack fullness. It's an okay choice if you need a basic broom for a costume, but I wouldn't recommend it for any serious use.