TLDR -; the broom legend comes fom witches using them to stick psychoactive concotions up their vaginas
Those who practiced “magic” were often using herbs to treat various conditions, though various side effects made them appear like sorcery. Some concoctions were used recreationally—not medicinally—which is where the legend of the broomstick comes in.
The ingredients of these “witches’ brews” typically included nightshade (Atropa belladonna), devil’s snare, (Datura stramonium), black henbane (Hyoscyamus niger), and mandrake (Mandragora officinarum). The blended ointment is able to bring on psychoactive symptoms that induces hallucinations. These herbs are high in alkaloids, which makes them very toxic. Even if ingested in small quantities, nausea and vomiting can occur. Applying the herbs topically minimizes the negative side effects without interrupting the hallucinations.
Not all areas of the skin are able to able to absorb the brew in the same way. Sweat glands in the armpits are good at absorbing the mixture, but women during that time period wore immense amounts of clothing that were layered and tight-fitting. They covered the neck and made the armpits hard to reach. There was one other location that readily absorbed the brew: the genitals.
Those who wished to use the mixture on the genitals were now tasked with getting it up there. It is believed that the broomstick became the preferred tool.
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