Sneezewort

• Type: Magical Plant, Potion Ingredient
• Properties: Induces sneezing (implied by name).
• Distinguishing Features: Can be easily confused with Scurvy-grass.

Sneezewort is a magical plant used as a Potion Ingredient. While its exact physical appearance is not described in the novels, its name strongly suggests that its primary magical property is to cause the consumer to sneeze. Its most notable mention comes during a fifth-year Herbology lesson with Professor Sprout, in which she prepares her students for their upcoming O.W.L. exams. She explicitly states that Sneezewort is used in “some Potions” and issues a stern warning to the class not to confuse it with Scurvy-grass. This implies that the two plants may share a similar appearance and that substituting one for the other would lead to an incorrect or potentially dangerous result in potion-making.

Sneezewort plays a minor role in the series, primarily serving as an example of the detailed botanical knowledge required of Hogwarts students. Its sole mention occurs in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. During a lesson focused on preparing for their Herbology O.W.L. exam, Harry Potter and his classmates are lectured by Professor Sprout on various magical plants and their uses. The reference to Sneezewort helps to build the academic world of Hogwarts and illustrates the practical, and sometimes perilous, nature of identifying and using magical ingredients correctly.

The name “Sneezewort” is derived from a real-world, or Muggle, plant of the same name, Achillea ptarmica. Historically, the dried and powdered leaves of this plant were used to create sneezing powder, which was believed to help clear congestion and headaches. The suffix “wort” is an Old English term simply meaning “plant” or “herb,” commonly used in the names of plants with medicinal or magical properties (e.g., Mugwort, St. John's-wort).

• In the mobile game Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery, Sneezewort is an ingredient used in brewing the Strengthening Solution. (video game)