Ancient Superstitions : Hag Stones

Hagstones are stones that have a hole running through them, and are ususally found in streams, rivers and the seaside, where running water has created a natural hole in the stone. This may be one of the reasons why they are considered so powerful. It is a common belief that they can protect people and animals from the powers of evil. A range of disorders were thought to be cured by hagstones.

It is called a hagstone from a stomach ache which they believed was caused by a hag or witch sitting on the stomach of the ill person.They were also worn around the neck or hung above doorways of homes and stables. These stones were hung above beds to prevent nightmares and fastened to the bows of boats to keep them safe at sea.

For a hagstone to keep its full power it was supposed to be found by the bearer or given in love.This practice continues today in parts of Britain and Europe.