The name Dragon’s Blood might raise a few eyebrows, and that’s okay. It does sound dramatic. But there’s nothing imaginary about it. Dragon’s Blood is a deep red resin harvested from several types of tropical trees, especially species in the Dracaena, Daemonorops, Pterocarpus, and Croton families. The rich color is what gave it its legendary name.
While the name might spark curiosity or skepticism, the resin itself has a long and respected history. For centuries, it’s been used in healing, art, and spiritual work across many cultures, from the ancient Mediterranean to Asia and the Middle East. In folk medicine, it was applied to wounds, infections, and digestive issues. Now, modern research shows it may have antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.
But its role isn’t limited to healing. It’s been used as a dye, a paint pigment, an incense, and most importantly, as a powerful spiritual material in magickal and ritual practices.
Is There Actual Blood in Dragon’s Blood Ink?
No. Not today, and probably not even historically, though it’s hard to say for sure. What we do know is that ancient and medieval magical traditions often involved the use of real blood (human or animal) to bind spells or sign pacts. Grimoires from those periods include references to animal sacrifices and blood magic, especially in rites intended to call on spirits or seal serious intentions.
Nowadays, Dragon’s Blood ink is made from high-quality red pigments and resin, so no blood, and definitely no dragons. Still, it's widely used in Hoodoo, Witchcraft, ceremonial Magick, and other spiritual traditions to empower written spells, pacts, seals, talismans, and petitions.
If you’re the kind of practitioner who wants that extra personal connection, you can still add a drop or two of your own blood to the ink. Just be aware of safety and hygiene.
Why Not Just Use Blood?
Here’s the truth: real blood isn’t practical. It clots quickly, dries dark brown, and fades in the light. If you want something that looks beautiful, writes smoothly, and holds up over time, Dragon’s Blood ink is the way to go.
How to Use Dragon’s Blood Ink
Inks are traditionally applied with a feather quill. But modern practitioners also use Metal nib pens, Carved sticks, Glass pens, or even your finger.
Choose your medium: Parchment or handmade paper is ideal, or your own body. Yes, you can draw sigils directly on your skin, but safety first. Make sure your ink is non-toxic and do a patch test first to ensure you are not allergic to it.
Write your intention: This could be a desire, a command, a pact, or a protective charm.
Best uses: Dragon’s Blood is versatile but traditionally favored for protection, power, courage, and luck.
Timing: Use it during a waxing moon, ideally in the hour of Mars or Jupiter for extra punch.
Dragon’s Blood may sound like fantasy, but its history, uses, and power are very real. Dragon’s Blood ink offers both tradition and potency. Use it with intention, respect, and a little bit of fire to let your magick speak loud and clear.
Until next time!
Lore Graves
