Atropa Belladonna Antique Print – Deadly Nightshade Botanical Illustration, The Witches’ Herb, Occult Herbal Wall Art, Witchcraft Print, Wiccan Pagan Decor, Vintage Botanical Sketch #N5

This Atropa Belladonna Antique Print is a detailed reproduction of a rare 19th-century botanical engraving depicting the infamous plant known as Deadly Nightshade (Atropa belladonna). Revered and feared throughout history, Belladonna has long been called the “witches’ herb”, a plant entwined with magic, medicine, and poison. This artwork combines the precision of antique botanical illustration with the aura of occult folklore, making it a striking piece of esoteric home décor.

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What the Artwork Depicts

This engraving presents Atropa belladonna in exquisite detail:

• The main stem with its broad, veined leaves and dark, bell-shaped flowers.

• Accompanying sketches showing the flower structure, fruit, seeds, and cross-sections, typical of scientific herbal engravings of the 18th–19th century.

• Elegant Latin taxonomy and annotations (Solanaceae, Belladone commune, Atropa belladonna) situating the plant within the great herbal traditions.

The result is an image that is both scientific and mystical, echoing the dual life of Belladonna as both a poison and a magical tool.

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Symbolism and Magical Properties

Belladonna has long held a place in witchcraft and occult herbalism. Known as one of the baneful herbs of the witches’ flying ointment, its spirit was thought to grant visions, flight, and contact with spirits.

• Witchcraft & Magic: Used in salves and rituals, Belladonna was believed to aid in astral travel, divination, and spirit communication.

• Planetary Association: Traditionally linked to Saturn, the planet of death, mystery, and transformation.

• Magical Energies: Protection from evil spirits, initiation into hidden knowledge, and the blurring of boundaries between life and death.

• Wiccan & Pagan Practice: Symbol of the Dark Goddess, shadow work, and initiation into the mysteries of the underworld.

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Medicinal & Toxic Properties

Belladonna derives its name from “beautiful lady” in Italian, as Renaissance women once used its juice to dilate their pupils. Yet it is also among the most toxic plants in Europe.

• Medicinal Use (Historical): In controlled doses, Belladonna was used as a pain reliever, muscle relaxant, and sedative. Its alkaloids (atropine, scopolamine, hyoscyamine) were key in early medicine.

• Toxic Nature: Overdose can cause hallucinations, delirium, paralysis, and death, which gave it its sinister reputation.

• Alchemy & Healing: Believed to balance extremes, Belladonna embodies the duality of medicine and poison, beauty and death.

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Historical & Cultural Context

From the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, Belladonna became a symbol of witchcraft, sorcery, and forbidden knowledge. It was included in grimoires, herbal manuscripts, and pharmacopoeias. Physicians, apothecaries, and occultists all feared and respected it.

• In occult folklore, it was said witches mixed Belladonna with Mandrake and Henbane in their ointments.

• In medical history, it was used in ophthalmology and as an anesthetic.

• In literature and art, Belladonna symbolized temptation, danger, and the power of the feminine.

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Why Choose This Print?

• Authentic reproduction of a rare botanical engraving

• Celebrates both the scientific and occult heritage of Belladonna

• Perfect for lovers of witchcraft, herbalism, and esoteric art

• Available on handmade paper or canvas for a vintage, apothecary-style feel

• Striking décor piece for witches, pagans, herbalists, and collectors

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Perfect For

• Practitioners of witchcraft, Wicca, and pagan traditions

• Collectors of occult and botanical prints

• Lovers of dark academia and gothic interiors

• Apothecary-inspired décor in studies, libraries, and ritual spaces

• Students of herbal magic, alchemy, and natural philosophy

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The Witches’ Herb – Deadly Beauty

This Atropa Belladonna Print is more than just a botanical sketch – it is a symbol of mystery, transformation, and forbidden knowledge. As both a poisonous plant and a magical ally, Belladonna represents the power of nature to heal, harm, and reveal hidden truths.

👉 Add this Deadly Nightshade Botanical Print to your occult collection today – a timeless piece of witchcraft history and esoteric art.

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Canvas vs. Hand-Made Paper — Print Comparison Guide