Unicorn horn

The horn of a unicorn has magical properties that make it a useful ingredient in potions, such as the Antidote to Common Poisons. In classical myths unicorn horns have purification properties which are used to dissolve poisons. This could be why it is used in the Antidote to Common Poisons.

History

 * In 1991, unicorn horns were sold at the Apothecaries in Diagon Alley for twenty-one Galleons each.


 * In the 1991–1992 school year, first year students at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry used unicorn horn in their Potions classes.

Uses

 * Wiggenweld Potion
 * Grand Wiggenweld Potion
 * Antidote to Common Poisons
 * Wand Core

Behind the scenes

 * It is likely that under normal circumstances horns are only taken from unicorns that have already died, since Firenze remarks that "it is a monstrous thing, to slay a unicorn" . It may also be possible that the horn can be taken without killing the unicorn, perhaps if they shed and regrow them much like deer do antlers, or that only a small part of the horn is taken from a living unicorn.

Appearances

 * Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
 * Pottermore
 * Harry Potter Trading Card Game