Envy is one of the most draining emotions we can encounter—whether it’s directed at us or festering inside us. In spiritual traditions across the world, plants have been used not just as medicine for the body, but also as protection for the soul. From ancient rituals to modern energy-cleansing practices, these plants serve as natural guardians that help banish toxic energy like jealousy.

Here are 10 powerful plants you can use to protect yourself from envy—plus when and how to activate their spiritual benefits.

1. Rue – The Classic Energy Barrier

Rue is considered one of the most sacred plants for energetic defense. Often used in protective rituals, it’s known for its ability to deflect jealousy, curses, and misfortune.

How to use it:

• Place a pot of rue near the entrance of your home or office—it acts like a protective wall, keeping envious energy out.
• For personal cleansing, boil rue leaves and use the water in a ritual bath during a waning moon to release negativity from your aura.

2. Rosemary – For Energetic Clarity

Rosemary isn’t just for cooking—it’s a time-tested herb for spiritual purification and energy elevation. It clears heavy vibes and neutralizes jealous intentions.

How to use it:

• Burn dried rosemary and allow the smoke to drift through your living space, especially in corners and entryways.
• Carry a small sprig in your pocket or bag when you’re entering tense environments or dealing with jealous individuals.

3. Basil – Abundance and Protection

Beyond its use in the kitchen, basil is believed to attract prosperity while shielding against the jealousy of others.

How to use it:

• Keep a basil plant near your windowsill or main doorway to filter incoming energy.
• Soak basil leaves in water under sunlight for a few hours. Then use this water to wash the floors of your home during a full moon to invite abundance and repel envy.

4. Lavender – Peace and Psychic Shielding

Lavender is a natural relaxant, but its powers go deeper. It helps protect your emotional and spiritual space, especially when you’re feeling energetically attacked.

How to use it:

• Place dried lavender under your pillow for restful sleep and protection from negative thoughts.
• Make a small sachet with lavender, rosemary, and rue, and keep it close during stressful or emotionally charged periods.

5. Sage – Deep Energetic Detox

Sage is the ultimate purifier. Used in spiritual traditions for centuries, it’s famous for sweeping out all forms of negative energy, especially jealousy.

How to use it:

• Burn sage bundles and smudge your home thoroughly, paying special attention to dark corners and hidden spaces.
• For businesses, cleanse your workspace monthly—especially after difficult customers or competitive energy.

6. Garlic – A Traditional Amulet

Garlic has long been a staple in folk magic for its potent defensive energy. It’s a symbolic protector, keeping malicious intentions at bay.

How to use it:

• Hang a garlic braid above your door to block envious vibes before they enter.
• Carry a clove of garlic in your right pocket during conflict-heavy days or if you’re surrounded by competitive people.

7. Peppermint – Fresh Energy Flow

Peppermint isn’t just refreshing—it renews stagnant spaces and clears out low vibrations, making it a great ally against jealousy and exhaustion.

How to use it:

• Brew peppermint tea, let it cool, and spray it around your home to refresh the energy.
• Tuck fresh mint leaves into small fabric sachets and hang them in key spots like closets, bedrooms, or near workspaces.

8. Bay Leaf – The Energy Guardian

Bay leaves are often used in intention-setting rituals. Spiritually, they protect and repel energy that doesn’t serve you—including envy.

How to use it:

• Place a bay leaf in each corner of your bedroom or under your mattress to ward off bad energy.
• Write down your fears or goals on a bay leaf and safely burn it under a full moon to energetically cleanse and reset.

9. Eucalyptus – Aura Armor

Eucalyptus is a purifying force, clearing emotional buildup and creating a spiritual barrier that keeps jealousy and toxic interactions from sticking to you.

How to use it:

• Place eucalyptus branches in vases around your home—they’ll cleanse the space while offering a fresh, healing scent.
• Add eucalyptus oil to a warm bath to release tension and flush out emotional residue after draining interactions.

10. Palo Santo – The Sacred Cleanser

Used in Indigenous rituals, palo santo (“holy wood”) is a revered tool for spiritual cleansing and soul protection.

How to use it:

• Burn palo santo and move the smoke through every room after social gatherings or emotional events.
• Gently waft the smoke around your body, especially your heart and head, after arguments or intense moments.