Among the many fascinating and deadly tools in Elden Ring, the Bewitching Branch stands out as a deceptively powerful item that can turn the tide of battle. Whether you’re exploring the Lands Between solo or fending off NPC invaders, this consumable item allows you to charm enemies, temporarily converting foes into allies. In this guide, we’ll cover how to get and use the Bewitching Branch in Elden Ring, as well as a few strategic tips to make the most of it.

What Is the Bewitching Branch?

The Bewitching Branch is a consumable item crafted or obtained from specific vendors. When used, it causes a targeted enemy to become friendly for a limited time, effectively fighting alongside you. This effect doesn’t work on all enemy types, but it can be incredibly effective in tight situations—especially when you’re outnumbered.

Unlike many offensive tools in Elden Ring, this one leans into tactical control. Using it smartly can transform a chaotic skirmish into an opportunity for survival or even dominance.

How to Get the Bewitching Branch

There are several ways to obtain the Bewitching Branch:

1. Purchase from the Nomadic Merchant in Liurnia of the Lakes – You can buy a limited number of branches for a small sum of runes.

2. Crafting – Once you’ve obtained the Fevor’s Cookbook [3], you can craft Bewitching Branches using Sacramental Buds and Miquella’s Lily. These crafting materials are rare but can be found near churches or in graveyard areas across the map.

3. Treasure Finds – Some Bewitching Branches can be looted from corpses in specific regions, such as the Academy of Raya Lucaria or Caria Manor.

Be sure to keep an eye out for these materials during exploration, as the branches are consumable and not infinitely reusable.

How to Use the Bewitching Branch in Elden Ring

To use the Bewitching Branch, simply equip it from your inventory and use it like any other consumable item. When activated, it fires a short-range charm effect. Target humanoid enemies—especially those wielding melee weapons—for the best results.

Here’s how it works in practice:

• Approach within moderate distance.

• Lock onto the enemy you want to charm.

• Use the branch, and if successful, the target’s eyes will glow purple, signifying the charm effect.

• The enemy will now attack its former allies until the effect wears off or it’s killed.

Timing and positioning are crucial. You don’t want to waste a branch on an enemy immune to charm, such as bosses or spirit creatures.

When to Use the Bewitching Branch

Strategically, the Bewitching Branch shines in these scenarios:

• Crowded Fights: Use it to thin out groups by turning a strong foe into a temporary ally.

• Invasions or PvE Ambushes: When you’re being swarmed by mobs or invaded, charming one or two enemies can buy valuable time.

• Tight Corridors: Locations like dungeons or castles amplify the chaos when enemies start attacking each other.

It’s particularly useful during encounters with humanoid enemies—think Godrick soldiers, sorcerers, or certain invader NPCs.

Pro Tips

• Always carry a few Bewitching Branches when exploring new areas; you never know when a charm could save your runes.

• Combine charm effects with Spirit Ashes for layered distractions.

• Some enemies will break free from charm early if you attack them directly, so let them fight uninterrupted for maximum benefit.

The Bewitching Branch in Elden Ring may not be as flashy as a legendary weapon or as reliable as a healing flask, but it’s one of the game’s most interesting tactical tools. Mastering its use rewards patient and strategic players, especially those who appreciate manipulating combat dynamics instead of relying purely on brute force.