WHO IS EIR?

 

In the unique world of Norse mythology, we often find that the gods reveal different aspects of themselves. Eir is one such figure - a goddess of healing, compassion, and aid. Her name simply means “healer” or “helper,” and that meaning is truly reflected in her essence and power.

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Old sources describe her in various ways: once as an Aesir goddess in the Eddas, other times as a Valkyrie, and sometimes as a handmaid of the giantess goddess Menglöð. Still, it’s worth seeing her as a deeper, universal embodiment of healing energy - one that permeates all three worlds: the divine, the human, and the natural.

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According to Hilda Ellis Davidson, Eir held a special place in the lives of women, who often prayed to her during childbirth and illness. She also notes that Eir’s role may overlap with the Norns, who shape the fate of children. So Eir is not just a physical healer but also a spiritual protector who cares for the continuation and sacredness of life.

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Henry Adams Bellows mentions Eir’s healing sanctuary, Lyfjaberg, the “mountain of healing.” It is a sacred place where Eir and Menglöð use their powers to help those who seek them. This mountain is not merely a physical location but a symbolic spiritual center where deeper healing can unfold.

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Eir’s healing energy is especially connected to treating trauma, making swift decisions, and saving lives. She stands at the threshold between life and death. She is often associated with the color red – the energy of fresh life and blood – as well as green, symbolizing renewal through nature.

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For those wishing to connect with Eir’s energy, herbs like yarrow and comfrey, and red stones like garnet, are highly recommended. Lighting a simple candle and offering a heartfelt prayer can also open the way to her supportive presence.

It’s important to understand that Eir’s healing presence is still with us today. We can all turn to her for physical, emotional, or spiritual healing – to bring peace, calm, and renewal into our lives. :)

 

PRAYERS TO THE GODDESS EIR 

(From northernpaganism.org )
 

Prayer for Eir by Nornoriel

 

Physician of the Gods,

the Merciful One.

I ask you to speed medical healing,

to speed the recovery

of illness or injury.

I ask you to inspire the doctors

to do no harm,

and to do well in treating the one whom I pray for.

Inspire the doctors to have mercy,

as you have mercy.

Inspire the one whom I pray for

to be patient and hopeful.

Hail Eir,

Greatest Physician.

 

 

Plea to Eir

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Maiden of Lyfja, Mengloth's Friend,

Healer of Open Hand,

Trace your runes

On the hand of the healer

The heart of the nurse

And the doctor's trail.

Grant weal to wounds,

Relief for pain,

Succor for sickness,

And wholeness for hearts.

All of Nine Herbs

Mix in your mortar,

Give to us mortals

Health in our days.

Eir, of all

The maidens mighty,

Near to our needs,

O hear our plea!

+RECIPE – Eir’s Healing Body Lotion 

A regenerating, soothing lotion for dry skin – approx. 105 g

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Season: March – skin recovery after winter
Goal: A calming, deeply hydrating body lotion for dry, cracked skin
(Not recommended for oily or acne-prone skin)

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By the end of winter, our skin is often dry, sensitive, and dehydrated. Eir’s healing body lotion is a well-absorbing, soothing, and nourishing cream that helps restore skin elasticity and hydration. The carefully chosen ingredients support regeneration, reduce irritation, and leave a gentle, natural scent.

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INGREDIENTS & THEIR EFFECTS

 

Oil Phase (deep hydration & protection)

• 10 g macadamia oil – Nourishing and softening, absorbs quickly and improves skin elasticity

• 7 g jojoba oil – Absorbs well, balances the skin’s natural oils

• 3 g rosehip oil – Enhances regeneration and adds anti-aging benefits

• 10 g shea butter – Rich in vitamins, deeply moisturizing and soothing

• 1 g ceralan (beeswax) – Forms a breathable, skin-friendly protective layer

• 6 g emulsifier (Olivem) – Helps oils and water blend into a creamy texture

• 5 g cetyl alcohol – Gives the lotion a thicker, creamier consistency

 

Water Phase (hydration & soothing)

• 50 g Roman chamomile hydrosol – Calms inflammation, mildly antibacterial, great for sensitive skin

• 10 g aloe vera gel – Intensely hydrating and soothing, supports skin regeneration

• 5 g glycerin – Attracts and retains moisture

 

Cooling Phase (scent, preservation, soothing)

• 10 drops lemon essential oil – Smooths the skin, fresh citrus scent that uplifts mood

• 10 drops lavender essential oil – Calming, anti-inflammatory, helps skin repair

• 0.5 g preservative (e.g. Cosgard or Rokonsal) – Prevents spoilage

• 1 g lactic acid – Mild exfoliant for softening

• 1 g vitamin E – Antioxidant protection (do not overdose!)

 

INSTRUCTIONS – STEP BY STEP

 

1. Preparation

• Sterilize all tools (bowls, measuring spoons, immersion blender, spatula)

• Clean the jar or bottle you’ll use for storage

 

2. Prepare oil and water phases

• Oil phase: Combine all oils, shea butter, beeswax, cetyl alcohol, and emulsifier in a heatproof bowl

• Water phase: Mix chamomile water, aloe vera gel, and glycerin in another heatproof bowl

 

3. Heating and emulsifying

• Heat both phases separately in a water bath to 70°C

• When both are at temperature, pour the water phase into the oil phase

• Blend with immersion blender for 3-5 minutes until creamy

 

4. Cooling phase

• Let the mixture cool to below 40°C (warm to the touch)

• Add essential oils, preservative, lactic acid, and vitamin E - mix well

 

5. Storage and use

• Pour into sterilized jars or pump bottles (dark glass is best! :)

• Store in a cool, dark place – keeps for ~3 months (but you’ll use it up faster!) ;)

 

HOW TO USE

 

Apply to damp skin after shower or bath - it absorbs better.

Gently massage into dry areas like elbows, knees, hands.

Use in the evening for overnight skin repair - If your lemon essential oil is not furocoumarin-free (FCF), use the cream only at night! 

 

EXTRA TIPS

 

Lighter version: For a faster-absorbing lotion, reduce the shea butter to 5 g.

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This deeply hydrating, nourishing lotion supports skin renewal after the cold months - and its delicate, feminine scent makes it a truly lovely experience.

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Az illusztráció Anette Pirso munkája