Rag tree tradition for luck and healing

In many countries around the world there is a tradition where people tie a rag or cloth to a tree or bush for luck. Georgia also has the rag tree tradition. It is used to wish for good luck, good health, or good healing. It is often called a rag tree, a wishing tree, a healing tree, a raggedy tree, a cloth tree, a ribbon tree, or a clootie tree (in Scotland). Sometimes the tree is named after a saint.

Often the tree is near a water source or near a church or other religious or spiritual place. In these photographs the rag tree (bush) is close to a labyrinth or hedge maze.

The rag tree tradition is to tear a shred of cloth or rag, often in red, from a sick person’s garment, tie it to the tree, and healing will occur. For good luck and good fortune the rag is generally new or freshly cleaned. Make a wish when attaching it to the tree, or say a chant or prayer. Often people use ribbons because they are readily available and come in a variety of colours. Sometimes aluminium or tinfoil is attached to the tree, which shines and sparkles in the sun and the wind.

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