Origin and history
Common heather, or Calluna vulgaris, is an iconic plant of Europe's moors and acidic undergrowth. Found from northern Scandinavia to the Mediterranean basin, it has always been a feature of wild, sun-drenched landscapes. In Celtic traditions, heather was a symbol of protection and good luck—it was often placed in homes to ward off evil spirits. It was also used in the Middle Ages for its medicinal properties, particularly in infusions to purify the kidneys and soothe urinary tract inflammation. Today, it remains a valuable plant for its purifying and soothing properties.