Airmid
Airmid, sacred healer and herbalist, is the daughter of Dian Cecht, divine physician of the Tuatha Dé Danaan. She and her father preside over a magical healing well, in which wounded, battle-fatigued warriors are dipped, emerging healed in body, soul, and mind. Airmid is a miracle healer: she and her brother, Miach, healed Nuada so that he could once more reign over the Tuatha Dé Danaan, which was wonderful for Nuada and the Tuatha Dé but humiliating for her father, whose children had publicly Demonstrated their superiority as healers. Dian Cecht engaged in a competition with his son, which culminated in Miach’s death.
Three-hundred sixty-five healing plants grew from Miach’s grave, allegedly one for every illness. Airmid carefully picked, dried, and arranged these plants on her cloak or apron, ready to heal all. Her father overturned the cloth; herbs were scattered, some lost forever. Allegedly, had he not done this, all remedies would now be known. Instead these remedies are secret, arcane knowledge, known only to Airmid, but if petitioned she may communicate secrets of healing.
ORIGIN:
Ireland
CLASSIFICATION:
Tuatha Dé Danaan
SEE ALSO:
SOURCE:
Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses– Written by :Judika Illes
