Medieval Medicine: The Four Humors

(SIDE NOTE: This was practice by almost every “doctor” but the village Wise Woman or Witch. For Star Trek watchers can you try to imagine how barbaric this type of medical practice was to Dr McCoy?)

It’s indisputable that medicine has come a long way in the last 200 years, but do you know just how many advances have been made? Prior to the 19th century, medical practice was based largely on what ancient Greeks termed “the four humors,” an idea formally introduced by Hippocrates way back in the 4th century BC.

The four humors were thought to be sanguine (blood), choleric (yellow bile), melancholic (black bile), and phlegmatic (phlegm) and their composition within the body was considered to determine a patient’s personality and health concerns. Every human body was thought to contain some measure of each of these humors. Let’s take a closer look!

The Four Humors

Sanguine (Blood)

Sanguine humor was associated with the season spring and the element air.

Character traits related to a sanguine temperament include courage, hope, and playfulness.

An excess of this humor was considered to be present if medical symptoms included fever and/or sweating.

Medical professionals thought that in order to cure this problem they needed to bleed the patient. Doctors often did this using leeches. No thanks!

Choleric (Yellow Bile)

The choleric humor was typically thought to cause restlessness and aggression.

It was associated with the element fire and the summer season. Interestingly, chamomile, which is currently often used in teas meant to calm and relax you, was frequently used to treat what was perceived to be an excess of this humor.

Melancholic (Black Bile)

Autumn is the season that was considered to be closely related to melancholic humor, and it was thought to represent the element earth.

People with a tendency to be introverted, serious, or sad/depressed were thought to have too much black bile.

This was commonly associated with dietary or digestive concerns.

To treat an excess of black bile, doctors might attempt to force patients to purge, or throw up!

Phlegmatic (Phlegm)

The phlegmatic temperament was associated with the winter season and with the element water.

Those who were thought to be predominantly phlegmatic were considered peaceful, calm, and thoughtful.

Too much phlegm may be present if a patient had respiratory, cough and cold, or energy problems.

Treatment for this was not as dramatic as some of the other humors – physicians may have recommended consuming more fluids and reducing stress.

The four humors dominated medical practice for thousands for years – they were thought to determine every person’s health, personality, and behavior. Although this theory is no longer in use, there are things that medical professionals have learned from it, such as the use of herbs to alleviate symptoms of some illnesses. Personally, I’m just glad that no doctors is coming to my house with leeches!

 From kidzworld.com

A Laugh for Today and For Your Viewing Pleasure – How Laughing Affects Our Health (And Why Its The BEST MEDICINE)

How Laughing Affects Our Health (And Why Its The BEST MEDICINE)

Spell for Today – Green Candle Meditation

Meditating with a green candle encourages us to improve in personal projects such as studies, work and self-development. It is great for casting prosperity or good luck spells, and also when invoking the healing energies of Nature.

Some of the Witchcraft/Magickal Correspondence for Thursday

From modernwellnesswitch.com

THURSDAY

Thursdays are best for asserting needs, deciding on plans, or making career and business moves. A great day for working on big projects and beating the odds. Start of a journey or travel is supported this day as well as pursuing creative works or innovative concepts.

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Earth

Tarot Card: Chariot

Rune: Ehwaz

Colors: Deep Blue, Purple, Green

Plants*: Anise, Banyan, Borage, Chestnut, Cinquefoil, Clove, Dandelion, Endive, Fig, Honeysuckle, Hyssop, Liverwort, Maple, Meadowsweet, Nutmeg, Sage, Sarsaparilla, Sassafras, Star Anise, Witch Grass

Stones: Amethyst, Sugilite, Blue Howlite, Kyanite, Lapis Lazuli, Iolite, Celestite, Azurite, Blue Topaz, Hawk’s Eye, Apatite, Tektite

Magical Uses: Expansion, Luck, Abundance, Protection, Stability, Joy, Pleasure, Employment, Leadership

From spells8.com

Thursdays are a great day for casting Magic spells! After all, the meaning of Thursday is Thor’s day, the day of the Norse god of thunder. ⚡

In most Romance languages, the day is named after the god and planet Jupiter (Jove), who is equivalent to Thor in Roman lore (Donar in German), and also the equivalent of the Greek Zeus.

In many of the languages spoken in India, the word for Thursday is “Guruvara,” with “-vara” meaning day and “-guru” is the style for Brhaspati, who is a guru to the gods and a regent of the planet Jupiter. ♃

Thursday is a day to cast powerful spells as it is ruled by the ruler of planets, Jupiter. This is an auspicious time of the week for abundance, prosperity, strength, wealth and healing spells. Find the perfect spells for a Witchy Thursday below!

Thursday Magickal Correspondences

Candle

Thursday candles are Blue, Purple and Green. Check the Daily Devotional page here for today’s candle ritual ideas.

Deities

Thursdays are ruled by CernunnosGaia, Juno, Jupiter, PoseidonPanOsiris, Thor, and Zeus, among others.

Tea

Drink a cup of Green Tea to connect with Thursday’s actionable energy.

This tea has a large amount of L-theanine, an amino acid that is beneficial for memory, attention, concentration and learning.

Herbs

CinnamonCloveSage, Fig, Hyssop, Maple, Nutmeg, Star Anise, Cinquefoil, Honeysuckle, Musk, Oakmoss.

Crystals

Amethyst Activation, Lapis Lazuli, Turquoise, Tiger’s Eye Activation, Sugilite.

Gods -Perses

Perses

Perses from greekgodsandgoddesses.net

Long before the rise of the OLYMPIANS, Titans ruled the world. In Greek mythology, THE TITANS were a race of elder gods. The earliest generation of Titans was born from Chaos. Known as primordial deities, the first Titans represented fundamental principles of the Earth and universe. However, their children and subsequent generations resembled humans and giants with great mystical powers.

As a whole, the Titans are not as well-known as the more famous Olympians of the Greek Pantheon. However, they still play an important role in GREEK MYTHOLOGY.

One Titan whose story is largely lost to the sands of time is Perses. A second-generation Titan god, Perses is the god of destruction. He represents the devastation and disorder that can come from war, depicting the obliteration of land and lives in the process.

The Origins of Perses

Information about Perses is sparse. He did not play a significant role in Greek mythology. Despite his importance to ancient Greeks, he’s only briefly mentioned in poems and texts. Most information comes from “THE THEOGONY” by Hesiod, which is the most trusted source for tracing immortal lineage. Perses is mentioned in the Homeric Hymns and works by Apollodorus as well.

Perses is the son of Titans CRIUS and EURYBIA. Crius was the god of constellations, and Eurybia was the goddess of mastery of the seas. The two elder Titans came from the first primordial deities. Together they bore Perses, Pallas, and ASTRAEUS.

There’s very little information about Perses’ upbringing or personal history. Like many Titans, Greeks didn’t actively worship Perses. The only time Greeks would ask for assistance was during times of war. But outside of that, Perses didn’t have any temples, sanctuaries, or cults.

Perses Depictions

Few artistic depictions exist of Perses exist throughout history. Unlike the Twelve Olympians, Perses and other Titans didn’t get many paintings, sculptures, or pottery. As a result, modern artists have taken many creative liberties with the god’s appearance.

Generally, Perses is shown as a destructive force in the midst of war. As with many other Titans, Perses is usually depicted as a giant among men.

Some scholars believe that Perses was envisioned with animalistic features. The Titan Crius and his three sons have a strong connection to a group of interconnected star constellations, which also hold animal-like qualities. Perses takes the form of a canine. Meanwhile, his brothers Pallas and Astraeus had the form of a goat-like giant and an equine, respectively. Their father, Crius was a ram.

Perses Symbolism

The son of the Titan CRIUS was the personification of destruction. He was a violent and aggressive deity who represented all of the war’s darker aspects. Perses is just one of many war gods. While not as famous as Ares, he certainly made his mark.

Perses had a reputation for his bloodlust. Ancient Greeks knew him as “The Destroyer,” accompanying soldiers in the heat of battle to conquer nations. He had a fondness for chaotic battle, reveling in the ensuing violence.

As mentioned earlier, Perses didn’t have a cult of temples dedicated to his honor. But, that didn’t stop Greeks from praying for his favor. Soldiers often prayed to Perses for assistance during battle. They didn’t just ask for his protection. Greeks turned to Perses for strength and strategy, ensuring that they had what it took to take out their biggest enemies.

According to Hesiod, Perses was also a master of strategy. He reportedly had wisdom that could win battles even if the odds were stacked in his favor. The god was particularly helpful with military strategy, but he also had wisdom that surpassed all men.

Interestingly enough, some versions of Perses’ tale say that he didn’t just focus on destruction. Some scholars believe that Perses was the god of both destruction and peace. In ancient Greece, war was constant. Towns were ransacked frequently as death loomed over territory disputes and simple disagreements.

Many in ancient Greece turned to Perses for more than just success during the war. They asked for a swift end to battle so that they could enjoy the peace that followed. Even if the pause was brief, many saw Perses as a symbol of what came after conflicts were resolved.

Marriage and Children

Perses married Asteria. Asteria was a Titan goddess born from Coeus (Polus) and PHOEBE. She was an immortal inhabitant of Olympus and a dark goddess of necromancy.

Asteria was known to practice witchcraft and communicate with the dead. According to legend, she also predicted the future.

The union of the goddess of necromancy and the god of the destruction resulted in a powerful child. The pair gave birth to Hecate, the GREEK GODDESS of magic, specters, witchcraft, and more.

Confusion with King Perses

The Titan god Perses is often confused with King Perses of COLCHIS. Because there’s not much information about the Titan, some elements of the figures’ stories overlap.

King Perses is a minor figure in Greek mythology. He’s the son of Helios and Perseis, an OCEANID. Helios and Perseis gave birth to multiple children, making Perses the brother of Aeetes, CIRCE, and PASIPHAE.

Of his four siblings, this Perses is one of the least famous. He became the king of Tauric Chersonese. Tauric Chersonese doesn’t exist anymore, but it’s thought to be in the modern-day Crimean peninsula. However, his brother and sisters have a more significant part in Greek mythology. Aeetes became the king of Colchis and is most commonly associated with THE ARGONAUTS. Meanwhile, Circe became a famous sorceress, and Pasiphae married KING MINOS OF CRETE.

Eventually, this Perses did become the king of Colchis. His brother, Aeetes, feared that he would lose his kingdom if THE GOLDEN FLEECE ever left Colchis. If you’re familiar with the story of the hero JASON and his Argonauts, you know what ended up happening with the famed Golden Fleece. It left Colchis, and Perses seized the opportunity to take the throne. Perses threw Aeetes into a prison cell as the sons of HELIOS fell into a full-blown civil war.

Of course, Perses’ rule didn’t last long.

Aeetes’ daughter, Medea, returned to Colchis with her son Medus. The two lied, giving false identities. Perses didn’t recognize his own niece, giving her plenty of opportunities to kill Perses. She gave her son Medus a sword to slay the king of Colchis. Then, she freed her father Aeetes to help him regain his rightful place on the throne.

The story of King Perses doesn’t have any relation to the Titan god Perses. But because their names are the same, many confuse the two. It doesn’t help that names like “Circe” and “Medea” occur in both tales. While there are similarities even in the family tree, most scholars agree that the two Perses’ are unique entities deserving of their own spot in the mythology.

The Legacy of Perses

The Titan Perses doesn’t have much significance in Greek mythology, but he’s important to the earlier history and lore of the ancient religion. Perses was one of the first war gods to exist. As a second-generation Titan, he is an early deity that existed long before the uprising of the Olympians.

He helped ancient Greeks create a path of destruction during war before Ares or ATHENA ever came into the mix. He exhibits the primal nature of warriors and a never-ending lust for blood. The god also represented the powers of war, for better or worse. Even in the wake of massive annihilation, the end of conflicts brought a period of peace that ancient Greeks always longed for.

The Titans eventually fell to ZEUS and the Olympians. How Perses fared in the TITANOMACHY is unknown. Whether or not he participated in the great war is up for debate. One thing scholars do know is that he is not listed among the Titans that were banished to TARTARUS. As a result, most assume that the figure faded into obscurity or served the people of Greece in some other way. He fails to appear in later stories, further cementing the idea that other Greek gods like ARES took over his role.

Trivia:

Perses was the Titan god of destruction.

Not to be confused with King Perses of Colchis, Perseus, the slayer of MEDUSA, or Perses, the ancestor of the Persians.

The name Perses comes from the ancient Greek words “perso” and “pertho,” which has an English translation of “to sack” or “to destroy.”

Perses is the progeny of Titans Crius and Eurybia.

The Titan god Perses belongs to the second generation of Titan gods.

Asteria is Perses’ wife.

With Asteria, Perses had one child: Hecate.

Source: <a href=”https://greekgodsandgoddesses.net/gods/perses/”>Perses – Greek Titan God of Destruction: https://greekgodsandgoddesses.net</a&gt; – Greek Gods & Goddesses, December 22, 2021

Goddess – Circa (Greek)

Circa (Greek) c. 2011 Lady Abyss

“She-Falcon”.  Dark Moon Goddess; Fate-Spinner.  As the circle, or cirque, she was the fate-spinner, weaver of destinies.  Ancient Greek writers spoke of her as Circe of the Braided Tresses because she could manipulate the forces of creation and destruction by knots and braids in her hair.  Goddess of physical love, sorcery, enchantments, precognitive dreams, evil spells, vengeance, dark magic, witchcraft and cauldrons.

Circe

From greekgodsandgoddesses.net

In GREEK MYTHOLOGY, Circe was a goddess of magic, though she was sometimes depicted as a nymph (minor nature god), a witch or an enchantress.

In any case, she was associated with magic. She knew a lot about potions and herbs, and sometimes used this knowledge against her enemies and people who offended her, turning them into wild animals. She also had a wand or staff called the rhabdos which she also used to channel her magic. In fact, this was the earliest mention of a “magical wand or staff” in Western writings; it was referred to in Homer’s epic poem, the Odyssey, when Circe used it to turn Odysseus’s men into beasts.

Circe was the daughter of HELIOS, a TITAN who represented the Sun, and Perse, an ocean nymph. She was one of three thousand of her kind, daughters of TITANS OCEANUS and TETHYS. In another version, Circe was the daughter of HECATE, a goddess of sorcery.

She had two brothers. One was named Aeetes, and he looked after the GOLDEN FLEECE, a fleece that was the property of royalty. It was made from the wool of a golden ram with wings. Her second brother was PERSES.

PASIPHAE was her only sister, and she was the queen of the Greek island, CRETE, and also the wife of King Minos. It was also said that she gave birth to the MINOTAUR, a creature that was half man, half bull, with the head and horns of a cattle and the body of a man.

In some stories, Circe was exiled by her father Helios to live alone on AEAEA, a fictional island, as punishment for killing the prince of COLCHIS, who was her husband at the time.

She later had children with ODYSSEUS, the king of ITHACA from Homer’s writings. Her three sons were Ardeas, Latinus and Telegonus.

Source: <a href=”https://greekgodsandgoddesses.net/goddesses/circe/”>Circe: https://greekgodsandgoddesses.net</a&gt; – Greek Gods & Goddesses, June 10, 2018

Archangel – Azrael

Information about Archangel Azrael from .britannica.com

Azrael, Arabic ʿIzrāʾīl or ʿAzrāʾīl, in Islam, the angel of death who separates souls from their bodies; he is one of the four archangels (with JibrīlMīkāl, and Isrāfīl) and the Islamic counterpart of the Judeo-Christian angel of death, who is sometimes called Azrael. Azrael is of cosmic size: with his 4,000 wings and a body formed by as many eyes and tongues as there are living human beings, he stands with one foot in the fourth (or seventh) heaven, the other on the razor-sharp bridge that divides paradise and hell.

Before the creation of man, Azrael proved to be the only angel brave enough to go down to Earth and face the hordes of Iblīs, the devil, in order to bring God the materials needed to make man. For this service he was made the angel of death and given a register of all mankind. While Azrael can recognize the name of the blessed (circled in light) and the damned (circled in darkness), he does not know when anyone will die until the tree beneath God’s throne drops a leaf bearing the man’s name. He must then separate the body and soul after 40 days.

 

Man has several means for forestalling death. By reciting a dhikr (ritual prayer), he prevents the angel of death from entering the throat to take his spirit. When he is distributing ṣadaqah (alms), the angel cannot take him by the hand. But when, after all protests, the angel returns with an apple from paradise inscribed with the basmalah (the invocation “In the name of God, the merciful, the compassionate”) or writes God’s name in his palm, the spirit must leave. The souls of believers are then gently drawn out and carried to the seventh heaven, but the souls of unbelievers are ripped out of their bodies and hurled down to Earth before they can reach the gates of heaven.

Witchcraft Symbols, Terms and Definitions – Healing Symbols

11 Powerful Healing Symbols and Their Meanings (With Images) from symbolsage.com

(I will be posting 1 symbol per day of the 11 )

A healing symbol is a mark, sign, word, or design that represents and reflects the art of healing. Historically, all cultures across the globe have had healing symbols.

They are used in medical rituals by practitioners and healers for strength and protection. Nowadays, people believe that visualizing healing symbols will lead to good thoughts, positive energy, and tranquillity. They can foster a greater harmony between the body, mind, and soul.

With that said, let’s take a look at popular healing symbols and their significance.

The Reiki symbols were founded by Mikao Usui, a Japanese medical practitioner, and healer. They are considered by some as the most sacred and powerful healing symbols in the world.

The Reiki Power symbol – Choku Rei

The Choku Rei is also called the power symbol. It is used to channel and direct energy within the body. The Choku Rei is drawn at the beginning and end of a healing process. It serves as a catalyst for physical healing and purification.

Since the Choku Rei is a power symbol, it can be combined with other symbols to strengthen the healing process. The Choku Rei can be drawn or visualized on a person, place, or thing, to fight off negative energy and protect the recipient.

Crystal, Gems, and Stones Meanings and Magickal Usage – Smoky Quartz

What To Know About Smoky Quartz, From Its Properties To How To Work With It from mindbodygreen.com

Quartz is one of the most popular crystals out thereut we would be remiss not to spotlight one of its unique varieties: smoky quartz. Here’s why this stone shouldn’t be overlooked, from its benefits to how to work with it, according to crystal experts.

What is smoky quartz?

Smoky quartz is a specific variety of the crystalline mineral quartz. As Ashley Leavy, founder and educational director of the Love and Light School of Crystal Therapy, explains to mindbodygreen, as quartz hardens and crystallizes, small particles of different elements can get trapped inside. So in the case of smoky quartz, those elements are trace amounts of lithium and aluminum, which create this stone’s telltale “smoky” appearance.

According to Leavy, smoky quartz is commonly found in places like Brazil, parts of Africa, Scotland, and the state of Colorado. It’s actually the national gem of Scotland, with “Cairngorm” quartz, from the Cairngorm mountains of Scotland, being particularly sought after.

“Some ancient Celtic people used it for personal adornment and jewelry, as well as in ceremonial pieces like weapons,” she says. And as spiritual health expert and meditation teacher Kara Ladd previously wrote for mbg, “It was the Druid’s first choice in sacred ceremonies and rituals [and was] believed to guide souls to the afterlife and keep evil spirits away.”

In general, Leavy says that smoky quartz is terribly underrated and really shouldn’t be. “A lot of people aren’t drawn to it because it’s not seemingly pretty on the surface—and I think smoky quartz just doesn’t get the attention it deserves because it’s pretty amazing,” she notes.

Healing properties:

It’s a grounding stone.

Like many of the other dark-colored crystals out there, smoky quartz is known to be incredibly grounding, which ripples out into a host of other benefits.

Leavy tells mindbodygreen that smoky quartz can keep you grounded if you’re doing spiritual work or meditating, encourage a deeper connection to the Earth, support feelings of peace and calm, and even help you work through personal fears. “Because of that grounding quality, it’s amazing how much we’re able to do better and more easily when we’re really well grounded,” she adds.

It’s protective.

Smoky quartz is also one of the best healing crystals for protection, as it can act as a shield against unwanted negative energy, crystal expert and co-founder of Energy Muse Heather Askinosie previously wrote for mbg. Energetically speaking, removing this old energy can help clear space for new and more positive energy to flutter in, she notes.

To that end, Leavy adds that if you’re a person who is sensitive to the energy of other people, or you’re simply feeling a little tender and need extra energetic shielding and protection, “then smoky quartz is a great companion to have in your pocket.”

It reignites your passion.

Smoky quartz can also help you reignite your passion when you’re feeling stuck or stagnant. As Leavy tells mindbodygreen, “If you feel a little disconnected from things that you once felt really passionate about, smoky quartz can offer a good boost to help get you reconnected with those things.”

How to use smoky quartz:

Meditate with it.

One simple way to work with smoky quartz is to meditate with it. As Askinosie notes, “Meditating while holding this crystal in your hand can help you identify and let go of stale, sticky patterns and beliefs that are holding you back.”

Balance your root chakra.

Being a particularly grounding stone, smoky quartz is connected to the root chakra and is an excellent stone to work with if you’re looking to recalibrate your root. “Smoky quartz supports the root (or Earth) chakra, supporting grounded energy and protection in the present moment,” Ladd previously wrote for mindbodygreen.

Keep some around your home.

Having some smoky quartz around your home is a great way to keep its grounding and protective energy present. Leavy, for example, recommends keeping some in your bedroom to create a protective shield while you sleep. And as Askinosie previously wrote for mindbodygreen, “Every now and then, depending on the energy of the space, I also like to add smoky quartz to my kids’ bedrooms to stabilize and absorb any unwanted energy.”

Use it in a ritual bath.

Next time you want to tap into inner peace and calm, consider adding some smoky quartz to a ritual bath. Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need, from spiritual expert and author of Ritual Baths Deborah Hanekamp:

Ingredients

1 cup Epsom salt for cleansing your spirit and relaxing your body

1 pot rose, oat straw, skullcap, meadowsweet, and lemon balm tea (set aside a cup of this magical brew to sip while you are in the bath)

10 drops lavender essential oil

10 drops rose absolute essential oil

1 smoky quartz crystal

Ritual:

  1. Light a candle and turn off artificial light.
  2. Put on some relaxing music.
  3. Cleanse your aura with a selenite wand.
  4. Step into the bath and dunk your head under the water.
  5. Allow only your nose to come up for air, but keep your eyes, ears, and mouth underwater.
  6. Breathe deep and slow.
  7. Imagine you are rebirthing yourself, releasing who you used to be, and stepping into who you are meant to be.
  8. Come up into a relaxed bathing position.
  9. Place the smoky quartz on your chest where you feel tight and heavy; imagine yourself letting the crystal clear for you all your worry.
  10. Sit and soak in the medicine of being your own healer.

Use it during shadow work.

According to crystal expert Yulia Van Doren of Goldirocks, smoky quartz can be a great companion as you’re doing shadow work. It’s certainly not easy to confront the darkest depths of yourself, but smoky quartz can offer gentle protection, grounding, and shielding as you learn to integrate your shadow.

Practice divination with it.

Leavy notes that if you’re into divination of any kind, whether it be tarot or oracle cards, pendulum work, astral travel, or scrying, smoky quartz is helpful in giving you proper insight and enhancing your accuracy. “And again, I think that comes from the grounding,” she adds.

7.

Use it as you’re manifesting.

And last but not least, smoky quartz is a great crystal to have on hand if you’re doing any sort of manifesting practices. “Because of that grounding and connection to the physical, it helps you tap into things in the physical plane, like your career, wealth, and abundance and prosperity,” Leavy says, adding, “And it’s helpful for focus, particularly when you’re dealing with managing really detailed projects.”

In combination with other crystals.

According to both Askinosie and Leavy, smoky quartz pairs well with mookaite jasper, or red jasper, especially when you want to let go of something.

Smoky quartz is also known to grow alongside the crystal amazonite in Colorado, which Leavy says makes these two excellent companions.

And if you’re working with smoky quartz to balance your root chakra, other stones that support the root would be great additions too, such as black tourmaline or hematite.

Cleansing and charging your smoky quartz.

Quartz and its varieties are typically pretty durable, so the good news is, any of your go-to cleansing methods will work just fine. You could charge it under the full moon, cleanse it with water, smoke, or sound, or even clear it with a different clearing crystal, like clear quartz or selenite.

Leavy does note to be mindful if you’re working with a rougher piece of smoky quartz so you don’t chip any tips off the cluster.

Check out our full guide to charging crystals for more methods of charging that you might prefer.

FAQ

Is smoky quartz associated with any birth months or zodiac signs?

Smoky quartz is not associated with any particular birth months, but according to Leavy, it is one of the traditional birthstones for Scorpio. “It’s also good for the zodiac signs of Capricorn, Taurus, and Virgo, because of its connection with the earth element,” she adds.

Is smoky quartz associated with any particular chakras?

Yes, smoky quartz is associated with the root chakra.

Is smoky quartz a good crystal to sleep with?

Yes, smoky quartz is grounding and protective, making it a great stone to keep in your bedroom, whether on your nightstand or under your pillow.

How should smoky quartz be worn as jewelry?

There’s no wrong way to wear smoky quartz, but Leavy says wearing it as a necklace or pendant could be particularly helpful if you want more help with communication.

Herb Magickal and Medicinal Uses – Valerian

Disclaimer: No herb should be used for medicinal use until you have check with your health care professional to ask if it safe for you to use it for any reason. WitchesofTheCraft.com, any staff member of WitchesofTheCraft.com, and Lady Carla Beltane are not responsible for any type of a negative reaction when using this herb for any reason.

The content provided on this is website is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.

Magickal and Medicinal Herbs: Valerian 101 from witchygypsymomma.com

Valerian Plant

Valerian Dried

Valerian is a legendary herbal ally that most of us can grow right in our own backyards. Let’s dig deeper into its surprising medicinal and magickal properties!

Valerian Root Valerina officinalis

Growing to four feet, valerian is a clump-forming perennial herb with a yellow-brown rhizome, hollow stems, deeply divided leaves, and small white or pinkish flowers that form flat topped clusters. It is native to Europe and Asia, but is naturalized in North America. In the wild it grows in grasslands, damp meadows, and along streams.

If you choose to include this botanical bad boy in your witchy garden, I suggest locating it near the catnip and extending the anti-cat stakes into its bed. Depending on your regional watering needs for this group of plants, I imagine a perennial bed of echinacea, catnip, and valerian would be breathtaking. Or at least beautiful.

The flowers themselves smell sweet, but the leaves and the roots… Well, not everyone seems to enjoy the smell of valerian. It has been described by some as simply earthy and others as smelly gym socks.

Valerian’s unique aroma seems to have a similar affect on our feline friends as catnip does. They will actively seek out valerian, bite at the root, and even roll around on it. Cats aren’t the only ones attracted to this pungent perennial. Legend has it that the Pied Piper of Hamelin used valerian to attract the rats when luring them out of town.

Other Names: Setwell, Capon’s Tail, All-heal, Garden Heliotrope, English Valerian, Phu, St George’s Herb, Vandal Root, Wenderot

Composition: Valerian refers to the fresh root or underground parts of the plant, as well as the dried roots.

Methods of Administration: tea, tincture, capsule, bathing agent

Valerian root has a 2,000 year history as a sedative. Over 200 studies have been conducted, and it appears that even the aroma of the herb contains sedating properties. Currently, it is listed as a sleep aid in over 16 different pharmacopoeias worldwide. It is preferred over mainstream medications because it does not interact with alcohol or other drugs, as mainstream sleep aids often do.

And while it is best known for its sedative properties, it is not a niche herb. Valerian is a bit more like a one man band. It helps with sleep, nervous conditions, and stress. It also helps with circulatory issues. It slows down heart rate while increasing the force of the beats. It stimulates the stomach and intestinal motility. It has been used since ancient times as a treatment for epilepsy and even stole the spotlight for a short while as an antidote to the plague. It remains one of the best herbal sources of calcium and magnesium.

Medicinal Properties

anodyne (mild)

anti-anxiety

anti-diuretic

anti-inflammatory

anticonvulsant

antispasmodic

aromatic

carminative

cathartic

diuretic

hypnotic

nervine

parasiticide

sedative

soporific

stimulant

tonic

Holistic Uses

after-birth pains

alcoholism

anxiety

arthritis (pain)

blood pressure (high)

bronchial spasms

colds

colic

constipation

convulsions

coughs

cramps

despondency

digestive disorders

drug addiction

epilepsy

fatigue

fever

gas

headaches

heart palpitations

hypochondria

hypoglycemia

hysteria

insomnia

irregular heart beat

measles

menstrual cramps

menstruation (promotes)

migraine headaches

muscle spasms

nervous breakdown

nervous conditions

pain relief

palsy

paralysis

restlessness

scarlet fever

shock

skin eruptions

sleeplessness

spasms

stomach problems

stress

stress related eczema

twitching spasms

ulcers

worms (expels)

Precautions:

Valerian is generally considered safe, but it doesn’t agree with everyone. For some people it can be stimulating and irritating, the exact opposite of what one would expect.

Avoid taking large doses of valerian for extended periods of time. Instead, take modest doses for 2 to 3 weeks and then break for a week before taking again. Happily it is nonaddictive and won’t leave you feeling too sleepy. If your muscles start feeling rubbery, that’s a sign that you’re taking too high of a dose. Just back it off a little bit and you’ll be fine.

Caution is advised during the use of barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and other sedative drugs, as valerian has the potential to increase the effects of some sedatives.

When I first got started with herbs, the first herbalist that I was drawn to was Rosemary Gladstar. She has a tincture recipe that is actually about to go on my brewing shelf for coughs. I will probably switch out the licorice root for something else and share a separate blog post at that point but for now I would like to share the original recipe in honor of one of the women who inspired me upon this path.

30 March 2023 Southern Hemisphere’s Planetary Positions

If you need to calculate the planetary positions for a specific use and time, click on this link

Currentplanetarypositions.com

To figure out GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) to your local time use this link  

For Your Local Time and Date 

Southeastern Hemisphere

This local time is in Sao Paulo, Brazil, South America

30 March 2023
06:00 pm GMT 3:00 PM BRT
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:09 Aries 46
Moon:27 Cancer 46
Mercury:22 Aries 59
Venus:16 Taurus 32
Mars:02 Cancer 35
Jupiter:18 Aries 49
Saturn:02 Pisces 36
Uranus:16 Taurus 44
Neptune:25 Pisces 40
Pluto:00 Aquarius 07

True Lunar Node:04 Taurus 19 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:05 Taurus 30 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):09 Leo 06

Chiron:15 Aries 30
Ceres:28 Virgo 17 Rx
Pallas:18 Cancer 00
Juno:10 Taurus 57
Vesta:22 Aries 45

Eris:24 Aries 24

Fire:7
Earth:6
Air:1
Water:5
Cardinal:9
Fixed:7
Mutable:3

Southern Hemisphere

This local time is in Cape Town, South Africa

30 March 2023
03:00 pm GMT 5:00 PM SAST
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:09 Aries 39
Moon:26 Cancer 17
Mercury:22 Aries 45
Venus:16 Taurus 23
Mars:02 Cancer 31
Jupiter:18 Aries 47
Saturn:02 Pisces 35
Uranus:16 Taurus 44
Neptune:25 Pisces 40
Pluto:00 Aquarius 07

True Lunar Node:04 Taurus 20 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:05 Taurus 31 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):09 Leo 05

Chiron:15 Aries 30
Ceres:28 Virgo 19 Rx
Pallas:17 Cancer 58
Juno:10 Taurus 53
Vesta:22 Aries 41

Eris:24 Aries 24

Fire:7
Earth:6
Air:1
Water:5
Cardinal:9
Fixed:7
Mutable:

Southwestern Hemisphere

This local time is in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

March 30, 2023
04:00 am GMT 3:00 PM AEDT
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:09 Aries 12
Moon:20 Cancer 50
Mercury:21 Aries 52
Venus:15 Taurus 50
Mars:02 Cancer 17
Jupiter:18 Aries 41
Saturn:02 Pisces 32
Uranus:16 Taurus 42
Neptune:25 Pisces 39
Pluto:00 Aquarius 07

True Lunar Node:04 Taurus 20 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:05 Taurus 32 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):09 Leo 02

Chiron:15 Aries 28
Ceres:28 Virgo 25 Rx
Pallas:17 Cancer 49
Juno:10 Taurus 37
Vesta:22 Aries 29

Eris:24 Aries 24

Fire:7
Earth:6
Air:1
Water:5
Cardinal:9
Fixed:7
Mutable:3

Flower Meaning, Symbol and Spiritual Meaning – Honeysuckle

Honeysuckle Flower Meaning, Spiritual Symbolism, Color Meaning & More from thefifthelementlife.com

Ahhh, honeysuckle; smell its sweetness lingering in the air, and you know that summer hath finally arrived — yippee! The frosts of winter have subsided. The birds are singing in trees giddy with fresh green leaves, and life is fine.

Contents

A Thought for Today

 

Blessed be

March 29, 2023 Birthday Horoscope

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!May the next year of your life be more positive than the past year! 

Click here to search for anyone’s birthday horoscope from thehoroscope.co

As an Aries born on March 29th, you put a great emphasis on doing the right things in life, even if at times, you may enjoy breaking some small rules. You are dependable and quick to jump to the rescue of those dear to you.

Change is important for you because it makes your mind think and this is when all evolution in your life occurs. Discover more about your horoscope profile below.

 The zodiac sign for March 29 is Aries.

 Astrological symbol: Ram. This is the symbolism of courage and impulsivity coupled with strength. It is representative for native born when the Sun is placed in Aries March 21 – April 19.

 The Aries Constellation is one of the twelve constellations of the zodiac. It is quite small spread on an area of only 441 square degrees. It covers visible latitudes between +90° and -60°. It lies between Pisces to the West and Taurus to the East and the brightest stars are Alpha, Beta and Gamma Arietis.

 The Greeks name it Kriya while the French prefer their own Bélier, however the origin of the March 29 zodiac sign, the Ram, is the Latin Aries.

 Opposite sign: Libra. In astrology, these are the signs placed opposite on the zodiac circle or wheel and in the case of Aries reflect upon a pioneering state and fairness.

 Modality: Cardinal. This reveals how much nicety and discipline exists in the lives of those born on March 29 and how serious they are in general.

 Ruling house: The first house. This house governs the zodiac Ascendant and the physical presence of an individual. This is why Arieses are action oriented people who also care a lot about how the world around perceives them and their behavior.

 Ruling body: Mars. This planet reflects goal orientation and nicety. It also suggests the adaptability component. The Mars name comes from the Roman god of war.

 Element: Fire. Empowerment and confidence is given to those connected to the March 29 zodiac as this element is considered to rule for those full of potential and ambition.

 Lucky day: Tuesday. This day is representative for the adventurous nature of Aries, is ruled by Mars and suggests hot temper and change.

 Lucky numbers: 7, 8, 16, 17, 27.

 Motto: I am, I do!

More info on March 29 Zodiac below ▼

 People born on March 29 are going to stay children at spirit forever but they are also very courageous entrepreneurs and risk takers when it comes to the things they care about. They enjoy spending time in the outdoors and all the activities that involve a lot of people and even a little competition. They are indeed very determined and eager to succeed, especially when they invest a lot of effort or when they are truly passionate about something. They love making plans although they don’t always get around putting them in practice.

 Positive traits: These natives possess a keen temper and are quick to adapt to almost any kind of situation you can encounter in life. However, this sometimes leads to them being bored so they need change to accompany them at all times. They are very efficient when they are involved in something and they prefer to first ponder on the issue, plan the new moves and then put them into action.

 Negative traits: These natives are undiplomatic, often too direct and they are also vain and egotistical. This means that they often end up in different clashes that sometimes affect the relationships they have with those around. Plus, they are easily offended and they seem to take any word that is thrown at them very serious. This can in turn make them prone to depression and a lot of sadness as they prefer to bottle things up rather than show how they feel.

Love and Compatibility for March 29 Zodiac

Lovers born on March 29 are both sentimental and passionate. They have no patience for courtship so they step this stage and go directly to professing their deep passions. They can be easily swept off their feet by eccentric and mysterious persons. Magic ends only if their partner can’t keep up with their incredibly active pace. Aries is also falling for simplicity and real enthusiasm. When they are single they focus on their ideas and plans and seem to be even more productive.

A passionate lover prone to jealousy fits when madly in love. They offer everything they have to their loved one and ask for the same. They are sometimes unpredictable and hard to understand in love. Gentle and loving daydreamer now, but when time comes they will prove to be very dedicated to their family and they are likely to sacrifice many of their dreams for their loved one’s sake. They are most compatible with those born on the 2nd, 5th, 9th, 11th, 14th, 18th, 20th, 23rd, 27th and 29th.

March 29 Zodiac people are very compatible with the other two fire signs: Leo and Sagittarius as they tend to share the same vision of life. In love, Aries is in a constant search for a deep and understanding relationship where they can open their hearts and express their feelings freely. The one to offer this to them is the affectionate and loyal Libra. Aries is thought to be least compatible with those born under the Pisces zodiac sign. As for the rest of compatibilities between the other star signs and Aries, you know what they say, stars predispose but people dispose.

Lucky color

Red is the color that is considered lucky for those Aries natives with March 29.

This hue denotes energy, warmth and youth. This zodiac color should be used for objects that are sitting in places where these natives spend most of their time.

People who have red as sign color are quick with emotions and often temperamental as they are very charged up in life. These persons are comfortable with lust and their power of seduction. If they are more tempered you can still recognize them easily for their perseverance and determination in any endeavor.

Other colors indicated for Aries are scarlet and carmine.

Representative birthstone

The Aries birthstone used in astrology for those with March 29 is Diamond.

Diamond presents a precious stone that reflects strength and elegance. This zodiac birthstone should be used in pendants, bracelets and other accessories.

This gemstone is considered beneficial for brain and glandular diseases and was also said to remove poison. This gemstone comes in white, tinted shades.

Another gemstone considered influential for Aries natives is Emerald. It suggests growth and healing.

Characteristic flower

The flower for Aries natives born with the March 29 is Honeysuckle.

Honeysuckle is one of those plants that denote grace and delicacy. This zodiac flower could be used in gifts and accessories.

This flower also reveals an individual who is confident and full of energy, ready to tackle all kinds of activities. This flower is to be found during spring time but continue until early fall.

Other plants indicated for Aries are Geranium and Ginger.

Symbolic metal

The lucky metal for those born under the March 29 is represented by Iron.

Iron is known to represent strength and aggression. This zodiac metal should be used in bracelets and other accessories.

This strong metal suggests the force of fiery Aries who is easily stimulated just like Iron can be magnetized. Left in moist air, Iron rusts which suggests that it should be handled with care exactly like the Aries native.

Another metal considered beneficial for Aries natives is Silver.

 

Characteristics of March 29.

March 29 Zodiac belongs to the first decan of ARIES (March 21-March 30). This decan is influenced by the planet Mars. Those born under this influence combine the resourceful and innovative nature of Aries with the bravery of the fighting Mars. This decan is known to magnify all the positive and negative characteristics of the Aries zodiac sign.

Being born on the 29th day of the month means attention, tolerance, idealism and emotivity. The numerology for March 29 is 2. This number reveals balance and partnerships. It is the representative number for the desire of harmony and peace. Those Aries associated with this numerology can become great mediators and with age they will only turn wiser, gentler and incredibly more considerate to other people.

March is the third month of the year, bringing the revival of senses and a great communicational environment. Those born in March are enthusiastic and observant. March 29 Zodiac people are generous and determined. March has as representative symbols the Daffodil and Shamrock as plants, Aquamarine and Emerald as gemstones and Mars, the god of war.

What statistics say about March 29 Zodiac?

In the Gregorian Calendar, March 29 is placed as the 88th day of the year or the 89th day in leap years and there are 277 days left until the end of the year. The twenty ninth day of spring, this is also the Day of the Young Combatant, as observed in Chile.

Aries is situated ninth place in terms of popularity as a birth sign on the list of most met to least met zodiac signs. Considered to be of masculine symbolism, it has a general positive meaning and is an odd number sign. This is highly representative for extrovert natives who are pleasant and very receptive. An archetype often used to characterize this sign is the Rescuer. Aries is also rated as the sign of the billionaires.

Famous people born on March 29 under the Aries zodiac sign: John Tyler, Sam Walton, Elle Macpherson and Scott Wilson.

March 29, 2023 Daily Horoscopes

Click here to read Georgia Nicols Daily Horoscopes

Moon Alert

There are no restrictions to shopping or important decisions today. The Moon is in Cancer.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

Something unexpected but probably pleasant might impact your home scene today. A classic possibility would be that suddenly, you are entertaining a group of people. Or perhaps someone unusual comes to your home? Or something unexpected impacts your family or where you live? Interesting day!

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

This is a lovely day. In particular, it’s an excellent day to work in conjunction with others. Because new ideas and unusual events might impact your day, you have news to tell. Whatever it is, you feel optimistic and hopeful.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

This is a good day for financial decisions and money matters. You might get an unexpected raise or a gift or a boon of some kind. Nevertheless, because things are unpredictable today — guard what you own and protect your money. (It’s a bit of a crapshoot.)

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

Expect the unexpected today because today is full of surprises. You might be caught off guard by a group or a friend. You might even be caught off guard by good news for a promotion or something that puts your name up in lights. Today is full of lots of positive possibilities!

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

Very likely, something pleasant and unexpected will please you today. It might be a complement, especially from a boss or someone in position of authority. It might even be a raise? (Fingers crossed.) Because you look good to others now, something unexpected will lift your spirits. Perhaps travel opportunities?

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

A sudden opportunity to travel today might drop in your lap. Or perhaps, travel plans will be interrupted or changed? Surprises related to publishing, legal or medical matters are also likely. Check your school schedule because it might suddenly change. Make sure everyone is on the same page.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

Gifts, goodies and financial windfalls might come your way today. Meanwhile, unexpected changes to inheritances, wills, insurance matters or something related to shared property are also likely. Keep your eyes open. People know your situation today.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Expect a surprise from someone close to you today. Or perhaps, you might meet someone unusual? Either way, your dealings with members of the general public, as well as partners and close friends, will be unpredictable today. You might encounter other cultures or travel opportunities.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

You might hear good news about your job or your health today. It might even pertain to a pet. Possibly, it relates to a coworker? You will have no trouble standing up for yourself and defending your best interests today. Enjoy social outings, sports and playful times with kids.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

This is an excellent day to work with others, especially to get things done on the home front, particularly repairs. Family discussions will go well. A surprise related to your kids or a romantic interest might please you. Cooperate with others today because it will only benefit you.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

This is a busy time but a wonderful time for you in terms of schmoozing with others and meeting people. Something unusual is taking place where you live. A surprise party? An unexpected gathering? You will be assertive at work or in anything to do with your job or your health. This also applies to dealing with issues about pet. (“Wanna treat?”)

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

Your financial scene is looking better. Today something pleasant but unexpected will impact your routine. It might be a flirtation. It might relate to your kids. You might meet someone new who is unusual. Whatever the case, it’s an upbeat, exciting day!

If Your Birthday Is Today

Actor Brendan Gleeson (1955) shares your birthday today. You are gentle, cooperative and polite. You are careful, cautious and observant about everything around you. This is the perfect year for you to socialize and enjoy life. Let your guard down and loosen up a bit! Have fun but don’t lose sight of your goals. Enjoy yourself!

March 29, 2023 Moon Goddess Current Phase

You can use this link to go forward or backward in time for Moon phase information. If you are curious, you can even find out what phase the Moon was in when you or anyone else was born.

From MoonGiant.com

The Moon’s current phase for today and tonight is a First Quarter phase. This phase occurs roughly 7 days after the New Moon when the moon is one quarter of the way through its orbit around the earth. Exactly half the moon will be illuminated and half dark. On the day of the First Quarter phase the moon is high overhead at sunset and is visible until mid-night when it sets in the west. The First Quarter phase is a one-day event and in the following days enters a Waxing Gibbous phase becoming more illuminated each day until the Full Moon.

Visit the March 2023 Moon Phases Calendar to see all the daily moon phase for this month.

Today’s First Quarter Phase

The First Quarter on March 29 has an illumination of 54%. This is the percentage of the Moon illuminated by the Sun. The illumination is constantly changing and can vary up to 10% a day. On March 29 the Moon is 7.73 days old. This refers to how many days it has been since the last New Moon. It takes 29.53 days for the Moon to orbit the Earth and go through the lunar cycle of all 8 Moon phases.

Phase Details

Phase: First Quarter
Illumination: 54%
Moon Age: 7.73 days
Moon Angle: 0.49
Moon Distance: 403,099.35 km
Sun Angle: 0.53
Sun Distance: 149,380,443.98 km

The 8 Lunar Phases

There are 8 lunar phases the Moon goes through in its 29.53 days lunar cycle. The 4 major Moon phases are Full Moon, New Moon, First Quarter and Last Quarter. Between these major phases, there are 4 minor ones: the Waxing Crescent, Waxing Gibbous, Waning Gibbous and Waning Crescent. For more info on the Moon Cycle and on each phase check out Wikipedia Lunar Phase page.

Useful Moon Resources

March 29, 2023 Northern Hemisphere’s Planetary Positions

If you need to calculate the planetary positions for a specific use and time, click on this link

Currentplanetarypositions.com

To figure out GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) to your local time use this link  

For Your Local Time and Date 

Northwestern Hemisphere

This local time is in Los Angeles, California, USA

March 29, 2023
10:00 pm GMT 3:00 PM PDT
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:08 Aries 57
Moon:17 Cancer 51
Mercury:21 Aries 24
Venus:15 Taurus 32
Mars:02 Cancer 10
Jupiter:18 Aries 37
Saturn:02 Pisces 30
Uranus:16 Taurus 42
Neptune:25 Pisces 38
Pluto:00 Aquarius 06

True Lunar Node:04 Taurus 21 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:05 Taurus 33 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):09 Leo 00

Chiron:15 Aries 27
Ceres:28 Virgo 28 Rx
Pallas:17 Cancer 44
Juno:10 Taurus 28
Vesta:22 Aries 22

Eris:24 Aries 24

Fire:7
Earth:6
Air:1
Water:5
Cardinal:9
Fixed:7
Mutable:3

Northern Hemisphere

This local time is in Chicago, Illinois, USA

March 29, 2023
08:00 pm GMT 3:00 PM CDT
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:08 Aries 52
Moon:16 Cancer 52
Mercury:21 Aries 14
Venus:15 Taurus 26
Mars:02 Cancer 07
Jupiter:18 Aries 36
Saturn:02 Pisces 30
Uranus:16 Taurus 42
Neptune:25 Pisces 38
Pluto:00 Aquarius 06

True Lunar Node:04 Taurus 21 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:05 Taurus 33 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):09 Leo 00

Chiron:15 Aries 27
Ceres:28 Virgo 29 Rx
Pallas:17 Cancer 43
Juno:10 Taurus 25
Vesta:22 Aries 20

Eris:24 Aries 24

Fire:7
Earth:6
Air:1
Water:5
Cardinal:9
Fixed:7
Mutable:3

Northeastern Hemisphere

This local time is in Frankfurt, Germany, Europe

29 March 2023
03:00 pm GMT 4:00 PM CEST
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:08 Aries 40
Moon:14 Cancer 22
Mercury:20 Aries 50
Venus:15 Taurus 11
Mars:02 Cancer 01
Jupiter:18 Aries 33
Saturn:02 Pisces 29
Uranus:16 Taurus 41
Neptune:25 Pisces 38
Pluto:00 Aquarius 06

True Lunar Node:04 Taurus 21 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:05 Taurus 34 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):08 Leo 58

Chiron:15 Aries 26
Ceres:28 Virgo 32 Rx
Pallas:17 Cancer 39
Juno:10 Taurus 18
Vesta:22 Aries 14

Eris:24 Aries 24

Fire:7
Earth:6
Air:1
Water:5
Cardinal:9
Fixed:7
Mutable:3

Good Wednesday Morning WoTC Family – A Thought for Today