During the early and middle medieval era, up to the Renaissance period, the wisdom of the 'Wise women' or 'Cunning Folk' - the White Witches - were seen as helpful, if not invaluable, members of their communities. Their knowledge of the healing properties of various plants and herbs were often passed down through the generations. Their role was to provide help for people in need.
Medieval Witchcraft - Black Witches
The White witches were clearly distinguished from the 'Black' witches. The 'Black' witches were seen as those who practised the secret arts of medieval witchcraft in order to do physical or practical harm to others. This distinction between 'White' and 'Black' witches