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The toadstone blurs the lines between myth and reality. Once believed to be found inside the heads of living toads, these unassuming gems are usually fossil fish teeth. Medieval lapidaries and bestiaries ascribe powerful influences to these stones. They were protective and curative, believed to counteract all poisons, and as a result were coveted by kings and queens. The toadstone is also intimately linked to themes of magic, transgression, and power. Join award-winning author, witch, and gemstone expert Nicholas Pearson for a survey of toadstone in history, literature, and ritual. Together we will examine its close relationship to poisonous plants, the toad-bone rite, and the initiatory power of the devil. Learn about the common stones and unusual fossils that have served as toadstones through the ages, and discover ways to incorporate its symbolism into your magical, spiritual, and herbal practice.

Botanica Obscura Conference is a gathering of herbalists, plant medicine practitioners, green witches, alchemists, botanists and other plant-passionate people from around the world. We seek to connect with people and plants and facilitate community and resource sharing between plant practitioners of all kinds.

All presentations are live and recorded!