To keep off evil spirits...

If you are troubled with evil spirits, pick bramble at the full moon and 

make a wreath, including rowan and ivy, then hang over the doors of your

 house ; this will also protect the inhabitants against evil spells. This belief in the 

protective qualities of the bramble led them to being planted around fresh 

graves of protect loved ones against evil, although in some areas it was believed 

that this would stop the dead rising and returning as ghosts.

Faerie Flora 2013

The rowan is the most powerful of plants against evil and witchcraft, hang it above the door

or planted in the garden. It protects home, family and beasts against spells, and if you use rowan wood walking sticks and whip stocks, these are all deterrents against the influence of witches and faeries. Coffins made of rowan wood will prevent the dead from walking.