Hellebore

• Type: Magical Plant, Potion Ingredient
• Form(s): Plant, Syrup of Hellebore
• Stocked At: Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry (Potions classroom stores)

Hellebore is a magical plant whose syrup is a key ingredient in certain calming potions. While the physical appearance of the wizarding world's Hellebore is not described in detail, its name corresponds to a real-world genus of poisonous flowering plants. This toxicity is likely related to its potent magical properties. In Potions, it is most commonly used in the form of Syrup of Hellebore. Its primary known use is as a component in the Draught of Peace, a potion that relieves anxiety and soothes agitation. This suggests that Hellebore possesses powerful sedative or mind-altering properties that must be carefully balanced with other ingredients. Beyond its use as an ingredient, the plant itself was considered a thoughtful gift, as Lily Evans once gave a bowl of Hellebore to Professor Horace Slughorn.

Hellebore is mentioned at several points throughout Harry Potter's time at Hogwarts, primarily in the context of Potions class and its ingredients.

• 1994-1995 School Year: During the Triwizard Tournament, Syrup of Hellebore was among the ingredients that Barty Crouch Jnr., disguised as Professor Alastor Moody, stole from Severus Snape's private stores. Snape subsequently accused Harry Potter of the theft, believing Harry might use it to gain an unfair advantage in the tournament.
• 1995-1996 School Year: While teaching Harry Occlumency, Severus Snape quizzed him on potion ingredients to test his focus under pressure. Harry correctly identified Syrup of Hellebore as one of the two key ingredients in the Draught of Peace, demonstrating his retention of Potions knowledge.
• 1996-1997 School Year: Professor Horace Slughorn, while reminiscing about his favourite student, Lily Evans, recalled that she once gave him a bowl of Hellebore as a gift. This personal memory highlights Lily's talent and thoughtfulness, associating the plant with her exceptional abilities in Potions.

The name Hellebore is taken directly from the real-world plant genus Helleborus. In folklore and ancient history, hellebore was well-known for being both highly poisonous and a powerful medicinal herb. It was famously used by the ancient Greeks, who believed it could cure madness. This real-world application as a treatment for mental affliction closely mirrors its magical use in the Draught of Peace, a potion designed to calm the mind. The name itself is derived from the Greek elein (“to injure”) and bora (“food”), a clear reference to its toxic nature.