MEETING THE MELISSAE by Elizabeth Ashley

The Eleusinian Mysteries were the most prestigious initiation of the ancient world. The nine-day festival was run by a group of women called Melissae, or “bees”: married women, second only in rank to the Priestess of Athena Polias, who presided over Athens. They amassed incredible wealth, fame and political status. Herbal textbooks speak of a relationship between these women and the Lemon Balm herb (Melissa officinalis). This book explores their practices and how we can continue their work today. Bees are amongst our closest and most important allies and here we can learn how to strengthen those bonds and draw from their wisdom. Use this book to journey into the enchanting dreamscape of the hive with UK-based aromatherapist Elizabeth Ashley.

360pp, 216 x 140 mm, Paperback, 2023, RRP £20.99