Flying ointment is an iconic substance in the folklore of the witch. Arising in the mythos of the European witch trails, it is crafted from a variety of transgressive ingredients (poisons, psychedelics, animal and even human remains) and used in the astral "flight" of witches. Under the influence of this powerful unguent, practitioners have been said to speak with spirits, travel great distances unseen, and go forth by night to meet the Devil. The history and legend of flying ointment rides a line between truth and myth, blurring into a muddy history where reality and folk-history meet.

 

In this lecture, students will explore the historical, botanical, and magical aspects of flying ointment, along with its role in the cultural perceptions of witchcraft during the European witch trials. We will explore the relationship between magic and poisonous plants, collected recipes for flying ointment, and so much more!

 

Melissa Madara is an occultist, author, and educator, teaching magic and witchcraft from a historical perspective. Their work explores history, animism, plant folklore, and traditional crafts through the lens of witchcraft and esoterica. Melissa is the curator of Moon Cult, an online community of curious witches who learn and practice together. Find Melissa’s interviews in the New York Times, Vice, Teen Vogue, and Refinery 29, or see their published works in Fiddler's Green, Venefica Magazine, or their two books, The Witch’s Feast & The Witch’s Workshop. Follow Melissa at mooncvlt.com or on IG @moon.cultus