Rue-Branch Folk Healer

The myth

Benzedeiras, folk healers who bless, are traditional figures of Brazilian folk Catholicism, found above all in the countryside and on city outskirts. With prayers learned across generations, cross-shaped gestures and sprigs of plants such as rue, guinea hen weed or rosemary, they bless people against the evil eye, quebranto and other ailments. The sprig used in the blessing usually wilts, a sign that it absorbed the harm. Their knowledge blends European, Indigenous and African heritage, and usually the benzedeira charges nothing, because the gift is seen as a mission. Many communities still seek out their benzedeiras.

Why it has this power

A level 3 common with ATK 800 and DEF 1200: little attack and lots of protection, like one who heals instead of fighting. It is a light-element Spellcaster, for prayer and blessing. Sun and Fox are daylight and wisdom. It pairs with the Folk Healer's Herbal Tea, which restores 800 breath.

Did you know

For many Brazilians, a sprig of rue behind the ear or in a pot by the door is protection against envy.

Connections

• In Dona Benedita, Folk Healer of the Backlands's deck
• In Great Pajé Ybytu's deck

Where to get it

• Daily Offering: 0% per pack (Common 64% per card)
• Welcome Pack: 0.97% per pack (Common 70% per card)
• Traveler's Pack: 0.88% per pack · 5.2% in the themed pack (Common 64% per card)
• Bronze Reliquary: 0.86% per pack · 5.1% in the themed pack (Common 62% per card)
• Silver Reliquary: 0.67% per pack · 4% in the themed pack (Common 49% per card)
• Golden Reliquary: 0.46% per pack · 2.7% in the themed pack (Common 33% per card)
• Daily Showcase: Shows up on about 0.69% of days · 150 gold
• Craft with card dust: 40 dust
• Crossing of Myths: Can be offered as a reward during a crossing (the card stays in the crossing deck).

Sources

1. Benzedeira — Wikipédia
2. Dicionário do Folclore Brasileiro — Luís da Câmara Cascudo