The Yew Tree

The Yew Tree

(The Yew Tree in Conduit Court of Skipton Castle)

Standing in the Conduit Court, so-called because it was the termination of the spring water supply, of Skipton Castle; stands a famous Yew tree planted by Lady Anne Cliford in 1659 after the restoration of the Castle.

Yet the tree has a long association with pagan and ancient cultures. It is seen as a symbol of life, yet is a common feature in graveyards across Europe as a guardian against evil and negative forces. Staves of Yew were kept in pagan graveyards in Ireland where they were used to measure corpses and graves. The tree which stays green throughout the year and extremely long lived, in excess of 2,000 years, emphasises the dualistic natural of its associations.

This smooth, gold-coloured wood with a wavy grain has long been associated with magic, death, rebirth and the runes. In Norse Mythology the Yew tree is represent by the Rune Eihwaz and is one of the two centre runes. The yew is one of two trees that is associated with Yggdrasil, the world tree.

The Yew Tree is the lucky tree for Capricorns and it is said that a sprig of yew placed under the pillow will ensure that you will meet the person of your dreams who will love and protect you from harm. Yew is also said to enhance magical and psychic abilities, and to induce visions. (Please Note: All parts of the tree are poisonous except the fleshy covering of the berry.)

One of it's constituents is a compound known as Taxol. This is an excellent antimitotic. Currently it has just passed phase 3 clinical trials for cancer treatment. Long long way from being a cure but if the action it has on cells can be identified it could resolve many unanswered questions.

DISCLAIMER:
Please be aware that this information is provided solely for informational purposes only. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to using any herbs or treatments made from herbs.