tree branch used as a charm against evil
Historical term for a branch, often of plum or willow, used in ancient Japanese rituals to ward off evil spirits, particularly during the New Year.
It is said that 卯杖 were used in court rituals during the Heian period.
The name means a staff associated with 卯, the zodiacal Rabbit; such branches were used as protective charms on the first Day of the Rabbit in the New Year.