Herbal Tarot - Four of Swords - Mullein

Soaring Eagle

You can see the minor arcane cards in Constellation 4.

Description: A man is resting against a rock. In his left hand there is a sword, which is also resting on the ground. There is a large mullein plant growing beside the man with three swords floating by it. There are four birds seen flying away. There are mountains in the distance.

Significant Details: The swords represent strength. Mullein represents reflecting on your life’s issues. The mountains are the gateways to the spirit realm.

Keywords: Rest, Recuperation, Rejuvenation, Solitude, Taking time out for reflection

Medicinal Uses: Mullein (Great and Black varieties) is used for lung complaints, including asthma, bronchitis and croup. The oil is anti-inflammatory and is used for ear troubles. Culpeper’s Color Herbal. Mullein’s tall, dried stems were dipped in tallow to make tapers. The leaves and stems were collected to make wicks for candles. American Nature Guides Herbs by Anna Kruger.

My Interpretation: This is a time of rest and recuperation for you. You may feel the need for solitude to reflect upon things that are happening around you. You will feel rejuvenated after a brief rest.

Number Significance: 4 – Foundation, Structure, Stability

Thoughts/Points to Ponder: The 4 of Swords is ruled by Jupiter in Libra. Mullein is ruled by Saturn. The 4 of Wands is in Constellation 4 with IV Emperor, XIII Death, 0 Fool, and the Fours. Completion and Transition. Establishing and Building. Releasing. Mortality and Immortality. Rites of Passage.

The fact that mullein plants were used to make candles, make this an appropriate plant for this card. It is a period of reflecting/seeing the things around us, as a candle allows us to see in the dark.