Poisonous Roots

From Catherine de’ Medici and Cleopatra to Lucrezia Borgia and Empress Wu Zetian, whispers of a special knowledge of plants and poisons (and a ruthless willingness to use it) have historically followed powerful women across centuries and cultures. 

Like a nightshade vine on a trellis, the lore of female poisoners is deeply entwined with the fear of women’s independence, ambition, and ability to defend or avenge.

Many plants have the ability to function as both medicine and poison, and women with special interest in them have long been met with accusations of witchcraft or vilified as cunning, secretive, and duplicitous. A tincture in a tea, a garden that can heal or harm.

Notes: Jasmine absolute, incense, milky tea, vanilla absolute, black amber