Hazel has a reputation as a magical tree. A hazel rod is supposed to protect against evil spirits, as well as being a traditional material for the creation of wands for witches. The twigs are used as dowsing rods by water diviners. In some parts of England, hazelnuts were carried as charms and/or held to ward off rheumatism. In Ireland, hazel was known as the 'Tree of Knowledge’ said to grow around the well of inspiration, and in medieval times it was a symbol of fertility.