Secrets of the Vine

Vine - Ogham Tree Profile

Bruce Clifton

Name: Vine
Ogham: Muin > > > Muhn
Letter: M
Lunar: 10th New Moon of the Celtic Tree Calendar (Aug 12th - Sept 10th)
Season: Autumn
Moon Phase: Waxing Crescent - 1st Qtr.
Moon Name: Lightning
Influence: Androgenous
Title: Chieftain
Age: Continuing re-birth (to the age of five)
Element: Water
Aura: Indigo
Healing: Blood - Digestion - Hormones - Nervous Conditions - Oedema
Animal Spirit: Bee - Fox - Snake
Totems - Entities: Magdalene
Gods – Deities: Asclepius
Secret Harmony:
Festival: N/A
Cosmos:

Essence of the Vine

Bruce Clifton

When to Call on Vine

When pressure builds beneath the surface
When emotion feels ready to overflow
When something within you is ripening but not yet spoken
When restraint must give way to expression
When flow is needed more than control

Signs of Vine Presence

A warmth that rises through the body without obvious cause
A desire to speak truth long held back
Creative intensity seeking form
Heightened sensitivity to rhythm, pulse, and timing
The sense that something is ready

Vine in the Inner Landscape

Vine does not grow alone. It reaches, coils, binds, and ascends through relationship. It teaches that strength is not always upright and solitary. Sometimes strength is found in connection, in weaving through structure rather than standing apart from it.

Muin governs the inner fermentation. The quiet transformation that takes place in darkness before sweetness emerges. Emotion matures. Experience deepens. What was once sharp becomes complex. What was once raw becomes refined.

1. The Tree in the Sacred Order

Vine appears in the Ogham as Muin, associated with the sound M and with the mysteries of wine, revelation, and poetic inspiration. Where Birch begins and Oak stabilises, Vine intoxicates and transforms.

Its wisdom lies in timing. Grapes cannot be forced to ripen. They must gather sun, absorb rain, endure heat, and then surrender to harvest. Vine teaches patience before release and restraint before expression.

2. The Tree in the Living Landscape

In woodland edges and cultivated rows alike, Vine climbs toward light. It does not demand centre stage. It finds support and makes use of it.

Its tendrils grip gently but persistently. Its leaves spread wide to capture warmth. Its fruit hangs in heavy clusters, abundance born of interconnection. Vine reminds us that growth is often cooperative.

3. Sacred Geography & Ancestral Alignment

Across ancient lands, vine growing marked fertility, prosperity, and communal celebration. Harvest time was not solitary. It was shared, sung, pressed, and poured.

The people who lived close to the land understood fermentation as sacred alchemy. Fruit transformed into wine was not merely drink. It was stored sunlight. Stored season. Stored vitality.

4. Esoteric & Etheric Attributes

Vine governs circulation, pulse, and emotional flow. Where life force energy becomes stagnant, Vine restores movement. Bnwyfre, breath of life, moves like sap through the vine and blood through the body.

It softens rigidity. It loosens tightness. It encourages safe release rather than explosive eruption.

5. The Tree as Conscious Ally

Vine does not ask for suppression. It asks for maturity. Feel deeply, but do not spill prematurely. Express honestly, but not carelessly.

It teaches that intensity can be refined into wisdom. That emotion can be distilled into insight. That power, when ripened, nourishes rather than overwhelms.

6. Mythic & Divine Associations

Wine has long been associated with ecstasy, revelation, and communion. Vine bridges earth and spirit through transformation. It carries both joy and danger, pleasure and excess, clarity and distortion.

Its lesson is balance. Sacred intoxication is expansion without loss of awareness.

7. Ritual, Practice & Traditional Uses

To sit with Vine energy is to breathe deeply and allow circulation to increase. To move the body gently. To speak truth aloud. To write what has long remained unspoken.

Grape leaf, fruit, and seed have long supported vascular strength and vitality. The symbolic and the physical mirror one another.

8. Thresholds, Seasons & the Spirit World

Vine governs the moment before overflow. The pause before confession. The stillness before song.

It teaches that release is not weakness. It is completion.

9. Closing Reflection

To sit with Vine is to feel the pulse of ripening. To recognise that not all growth is visible. Some of it ferments quietly in darkness until the time is right.

Vine does not rush. Vine does not retreat. It ripens, and when the moment comes, it pours.

Healing - Lore of the Vine

Bruce Clifton

The vine, most commonly known in Europe as Vitis vinifera, has travelled with civilisation for thousands of years. From Mediterranean hillsides to monastic gardens and Celtic trade routes, vine has been cultivated not only for nourishment and wine, but for medicine. Leaf, fruit, seed, and sap have each held recognised value within traditional healing systems, particularly in matters of circulation, vitality, and restoration.

Across ancient cultures, grape leaf preparations were used to tone blood vessels and support healthy circulation. The fruit was valued for strengthening the body during convalescence, and the seed for its concentrated protective properties. Where blood moved sluggishly, where limbs felt heavy, or where inflammation persisted, vine was regarded as a restoring ally.

Within Druidic understanding, healing was never isolated to symptom alone. The vine offered more than vascular support. It symbolised flow itself. Circulation of blood mirrored circulation of emotion. Fermentation mirrored transformation. What modern language separates into cardiovascular support, antioxidant therapy, and emotional release would once have been recognised as one movement of life force energy returning to balance.

Vine works gradually. It does not shock or suppress. It strengthens vessels, steadies rhythm, and encourages proper movement through the channels of the body. Where stagnation lingers, vine promotes flow. Where pressure builds, vine encourages safe release. Its healing presence aligns physical vitality with emotional maturity, reminding us that ripening cannot be rushed, but it can be supported.

Scope & Notice — Healing Indemnity

The information contained herein is provided for educational and contemplative purposes only. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and reliability; however, no guarantees are stated or implied. The author is not offering medical or professional advice, and this content should not be considered a substitute for qualified guidance. If in doubt, readers are advised to consult a suitable professional before undertaking any remedies or practices referenced.

About the Healing List

The following list of ailments and applications is not exhaustive. It has been limited to the most commonly recorded and traditionally associated uses, with remedies drawn primarily from the vine itself and secondarily from companion plants traditionally grown alongside it.

There are many ways to prepare herbal infusions, including teas, tinctures, poultices, oils, and decoctions. Ingredients may be gathered traditionally or sourced responsibly. As with all natural remedies, preparation, intention, and respect for the plant are considered as important as the method itself.

This list is categorised alphabetically for ease of reference for no other reason.

The healing properties of the holly include, but are not limited to:
1) Anti-ageing
2) Anti-inflammatory
3) Blood
4) Blood Pressure
5) Bruise - Bruising - Contusions
6) Chronic Fatigue
7) Digestion
8) Hormones
9) Nervous Conditions
10) Oedema
11) PAD (Peripheral arterial disease)
12) Skin Aging
13) Varicose Veins

1) Anti-ageing

Ingredients:
Red Grape Skin (Vitis vinifera)
Grape Seed (Vitis vinifera)

Recipe:
Red grapes are harvested at full ripeness. The skins may be dried and powdered, or the fresh fruit consumed whole to retain the protective compounds concentrated in the outer layer. Grape seeds may be dried, ground into powder, pressed into oil, or taken as a standardised extract.

For external application, grape seed oil can be applied lightly to the skin, particularly where elasticity is diminishing. Internally, grape seed extract or whole red grapes are traditionally used to support vascular and cellular resilience.

The intention is to protect collagen structures, reduce oxidative stress, and support skin elasticity without overstimulation.

Grape skins and seeds should be thoroughly dried before storage. Powders and oils must be kept in airtight containers away from light.

The main properties of Red Grape Skin and Grape Seed are:
Flavonoids – Resveratrol – Proanthocyanidins (OPCs) – Anthocyanins – Phenolic Compounds

(See: Holistic Healing Remedies)

2) Anti-inflammatory

Ingredients:
Red Vine Leaf (Vitis vinifera, autumn leaf preferred)

Recipe:
Leaves are traditionally gathered in early autumn when they turn deep red. The fresh leaves may be gently warmed and applied directly as a compress to swollen or inflamed areas. More commonly, the leaves are dried for storage, then later steeped in hot water to create a strong infusion. Once cooled to a comfortable temperature, a cloth is soaked in the liquid and placed over the affected area.

The intention is to reduce heat, support circulation, and tone the vessels without forcing the body.

The leaves can be dried thoroughly in a shaded, well-ventilated space and stored for later use. Rehydrate in freshly boiled water before application.

The main properties of Red Vine Leaf are: Flavonoids - Anthocyanins - Proanthocyanidins (OPCs) - Tannins - Phenolic Acids

(See: Holistic Healing Remedies)

3) Blood Circulation

Ingredients:
Red Vine Leaf (Vitis vinifera, autumn leaf preferred)
Grape Seed (Vitis vinifera)

Recipe:
Red vine leaves are gathered in early autumn once they have turned crimson. The leaves are dried in shade and later steeped in freshly boiled water to create a strong infusion. Taken warm, the infusion is traditionally used to support venous circulation and reduce stagnation.

Grape seeds may be dried and ground into powder or taken as a prepared extract to strengthen vessel walls from within. The two may be used separately or in sequence depending on the nature of the imbalance.

The intention is to tone the veins, improve peripheral circulation, and support healthy blood flow without overstimulation.

Leaves and seeds should be dried fully before storage and kept in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

The main properties of Red Vine Leaf and Grape Seed are:
Flavonoids – Proanthocyanidins (OPCs) – Anthocyanins – Tannins – Phenolic Acids

(See: Holistic Healing Remedies)

4) Blood Pressure (Mild Imbalance)

Ingredients:
Red Grape (Vitis vinifera)
Grape Seed (Vitis vinifera)
Red Vine Leaf (Vitis vinifera)

Recipe:
Fully ripened red grapes may be consumed fresh to support vascular elasticity and general cardiovascular balance. Grape seed can be dried and ground, pressed into oil, or taken as a standardised extract to strengthen vessel walls and improve resilience.

Red vine leaf, gathered in autumn and dried, may be prepared as a warm infusion. Taken in moderation, it is traditionally used to tone the venous system and encourage healthy circulatory rhythm.

The intention is to support vascular flexibility, reduce oxidative stress within blood vessels, and encourage balanced circulation without forcing rapid change.

All plant material should be dried in shade and stored in airtight containers away from heat and light.

The main properties of Red Grape, Grape Seed and Red Vine Leaf are:
Flavonoids – Proanthocyanidins (OPCs) – Anthocyanins – Resveratrol – Phenolic Compounds

(See: Holistic Healing Remedies)

5) Bruise - Bruising - Contusions

Ingredients:
Red Vine Leaf (Vitis vinifera, autumn leaf preferred)
Grape Seed (Vitis vinifera)

Recipe:
Red vine leaves are gathered in early autumn when they turn deep red, then dried for storage. A strong infusion is prepared by steeping the dried leaves in freshly boiled water. Once cooled, a cloth is soaked in the liquid and applied gently to the bruised area as a compress.

Grape seed may be ground into powder or used as an oil to support the strengthening of delicate vessels from within or through light external application.

The intention is to support capillary strength, reduce localised swelling, and encourage the natural dispersal of pooled blood beneath the skin.

Leaves and seeds should be dried thoroughly and stored away from heat and light.

The main properties of Red Vine Leaf and Grape Seed are:
Flavonoids – Proanthocyanidins (OPCs) – Anthocyanins – Tannins – Phenolic Compounds

Traditionally:
Bruising was understood as blood that had lost its proper path. Vine, which governs circulation and flow, was called upon to guide the blood back into movement. The red leaf in particular, mirroring the colour of blood itself, was believed to calm heat and restore balance where impact had disturbed the harmony of the flesh.

(See: Holistic Healing Remedies)

6) Chronic Fatigue

Ingredients:
Red Grape (Vitis vinifera)
Grape Must (Vitis vinifera, unfermented juice)

Recipe:
Fully ripened red grapes are taken fresh, ideally in season, to nourish and gently rebuild strength. The fruit may be eaten whole to retain skin and seed compounds. Freshly pressed grape juice, or must, may also be taken in small daily quantities during periods of depletion.

The intention is to restore vitality gradually, nourish the blood, and support natural energy without overstimulation.

Grapes should be taken at full ripeness. Juice is best consumed fresh and not overly processed.

The main properties of Red Grape and Grape Must are:
Natural Sugars – Flavonoids – Anthocyanins – Resveratrol – Phenolic Compounds

Traditionally:
In older European practice, grape cures were given to those weakened by illness or long exhaustion. The grape was seen as stored sunlight, gathered through summer and offered back to the body in times of need. It was not taken to jolt the system, but to rebuild strength slowly, restoring warmth, colour, and steadiness to the blood.

(See: Holistic Healing Remedies)

7) Digestion

Ingredients:
Fresh Grape (Vitis vinifera)
Wine Vinegar (Vitis vinifera, fermented)

Recipe:
Fully ripened grapes may be eaten fresh to gently stimulate digestive movement. Taken before or between meals, the fruit encourages natural flow within the stomach and bowels without heaviness.

Wine vinegar may be diluted in water and taken in small quantities before food to awaken digestion and support appetite.

The intention is to encourage gentle movement, reduce stagnation, and restore natural rhythm within the digestive system.

Grapes should be ripe and unspoiled. Vinegar should be well diluted before use.

The main properties of Fresh Grape and Wine Vinegar are:
Fruit Acids – Natural Sugars – Flavonoids – Phenolic Compounds – Acetic Acid

Traditionally:
Vine was understood to stir what had become sluggish. Where the stomach felt heavy or unsettled, a handful of grapes or a little sharp vinegar was believed to awaken the inner fire. Wine in small measure was also taken to encourage appetite and warmth, but always with restraint. Vine supports movement, not excess.

(See: Holistic Healing Remedies)

8) Hormonal Balance

Ingredients:
Red Grape (Vitis vinifera)
Grape Seed (Vitis vinifera)

Recipe:
Fully ripened red grapes may be taken fresh to nourish the blood and support overall vitality. Grape seeds may be dried and ground, pressed into oil, or taken as a prepared extract to support vascular and cellular resilience.

The intention is not to force hormonal change, but to strengthen circulation and reduce internal stress, allowing the body’s natural rhythms to settle and regulate more evenly.

Grapes should be taken in season when possible. Seeds and extracts should be stored away from light and heat.

The main properties of Red Grape and Grape Seed are:
Flavonoids – Proanthocyanidins (OPCs) – Anthocyanins – Resveratrol – Phenolic Compounds

Traditionally:
Vine governs ripening and timing. In older understanding, imbalance of mood or cycle was often seen as a disturbance of rhythm rather than a fault of the body. Vine was taken to restore flow, soften tension, and steady the blood. It was associated with maturity, fertility, and the natural turning of seasons within the body.

(See: Holistic Healing Remedies)