A Guide to Using Herbs

 

Herbs are commonly used within Wicca and Magick due to the essences they contain, it is believed that herbs are considered sacred as they have their own energy and identity such as genders and elements, it is often considered good practice to grow your own herbs as then you have your own energy running through a plant you have nurtured and brought to life since its seed form.

Herbs can be used in many different ways, particularly in spell work, one of the most popular and shown methods is using herbs within sachets, this is because you effectively create a wearable, portable charm which can be worn, carried or placed depending on the contents and intended spell. Other methods include burning the herbs as a form of incense, drinking tea brewed from the herbs, using them in baths in pure or oil form and lastly smoking.

The good thing about the herbs used in Wicca is that many of them are in lurking in your kitchen right now! The herbs and spices found within a spice rack are commonly used when practicing Wicca and for use in spells, not only does this make certain aspects of Wicca easier for those starting out, it also makes material gathering that little bit cheaper plus most are very tasty on food!

All of the herbs and spices mentioned here are easily accessible from any good supermarket, some of the rarer herbs can easily be found from any Wicca shop or from various online stores such as eBay and Amazon.

Below are number of common and slightly rarer herbs which can be found in most kitchen cupboards:

– Garlic: Most commonly used in spells that are protection based, garlic has great healing power within the body as it has both antifungal and viral properties.

– Dill: A multiuse herb used in protection, love, money and lust spells, typically used in baths or hung in the doorway of your home.

-Cumin(both seeds and powder): A strong herb used for protection particularly against evil spirits, commonly used with frankincense.

– Bay leaves: Said to once be chewed on by the priestesses of Delphi to induce visions, bay leaves are considered to bring on visions and ward off evil.

– Cayenne pepper: Typically used to make or break a hex, or used in love or rejection spells, this is a very powerful spice with varying effects, can also be used to treat joint pains and high blood pressure.

– Nutmeg: Commonly used in spells focusing in wealth, health and good luck, it is also believed to boost psychic powers, toxic in large doses.

– Rosemary: Popularly used as incense, this herb is typically used for exorcisms and used in love and healing potions, drinking this herb in the form of tea can heighten the senses.

– Star Anise: Used for protection against evil and keeping nightmares at bay, a very powerful herb in smell that is great for incense, used in protection and purification spells.

– Thyme: Has 3 main uses, is either burned as incense for purifying areas, worn to boost clairvoyance and used in many health or healing potions and rituals.

– Vanilla beans: Considered a very powerful aphrodisiac, vanilla beans are popular choices for a variety of different love and seduction spells, it is also considered to boost brain activity.

– Ginger: Typically consumed before performing rituals or spells to boost their effectiveness and power, ginger is commonly used in love and power potions.

 

–Pamela Taylor, Wicca Witch of the West: A Beginner’s Guide to Wicca, Spells, Herbs, Runes, and Rituals