| Sumario: | This article examines the Old English magico-medical poem known as the Nine Herbs Charm, proposing that its obscure narrative is best understood as a variant of the myth of Ragnarǫk, the apocalyptic battle between gods and giants in Old Norse tradition. The charm envisions an epic conflict between nine animated herbs and nine poisons or illnesses, paralleling the cosmic struggle and subsequent regeneration depicted in Ragnarǫk myths. Key elements, such as the invocation of Woden (Odin) combating a serpent and the enigmatic term Regenmeld, are interpreted as references to divine assemblies and battles akin to those in Ragnarǫk, suggesting a lost herbal mythology underlying the charm. This interpretation sheds light on the charm’s structure and symbolism, highlighting its role as a ritualistic medical text that frames healing as a cosmic battle between forces of health and disease.
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