Dragon's Blood is a deep crimson resin exuded from several species of trees in the genera Dracaena and Daemonorops. The name is a direct translation of the Greek drakon haima and Latin sanguis draconis, reflecting the resin's vivid colour, which resembles dried blood. In the herbal and alchemical traditions of Europe and the Middle East, it was classed among the most potent 'hot and pungent' substances, prized for its protective and binding virtues.

Position on the Tree of Life

Dragon's Blood is assigned to Path 15, the Hebrew letter Heh (ה), which connects Chokmah (Wisdom) to Tiphereth (Beauty). This path is associated with the zodiacal sign Aries, and its perfume is marked by heat, sharpness, and a penetrating force. As a fiery, martial scent, Dragon's Blood aligns with the expansive, assertive energy of this current.

Astrological and planetary correspondence

Planetary attribution is Mars—the god of war, bloodshed, and raw will—and its zodiacal home is Aries, the Ram. In table 777, the resin sits alongside Pepper under the description 'all Hot Pungent Odours,' reinforcing the stinging, exciting, and fiercely protective nature of the scent.

Historical context

The earliest recorded uses of Dragon's Blood are attested in the Mediterranean world, where the resin was gathered from the Socotra dragon tree (Dracaena cinnabari). The 1st-century CE Greek physician Dioscorides described it as an astringent and vulnerary, useful for binding wounds and staunching bleeding. By the Middle Ages, the resin had entered the repertoires of alchemists and magicians. It appears in the Papyri Graecae Magicae as an ingredient in ink and in incense blends for summoning spirits, sealing pacts, and protecting the magician from malevolent forces.

In the grimoire tradition—particularly the Key of Solomon—Dragon's Blood is listed among the incenses for planetary and martial operations. It is also a primary component of 'fumigations of the art' for conjuring servitors. Modern folk magic continues to use Dragon's Blood as a fumigant for purification, an additive to protection sachets, and a medium for writing sigils and names on parchment (often mixed with alcohol to create 'Dragon's Blood ink').

Appearance in Table 777

In the column of Perfumes, Dragon's Blood is assigned to the row of Path 15 (the 15th path of the Sepher Yetzirah), alongside Pepper, and is classified as one of the 'hot pungent odours,' reflecting its fiery, defensive, and fortifying character in ceremonial practice.