Category: Herbs

Obtaining Herbs: Collection

Obtaining Herbs

Collection

Walking in the woods, striding through deserts, climbing mountains or strolling along beaches are refreshing activities in and of themselves. When combined with a quest for magickal herbs they can be exciting adventures.

There are some basic ideas to follow here:

*Collect only what you need. Do you really need five paper sacks full of mugwort?

*Attune with the plant before collecting from it. You may do this by placing your hands around it and feeling its energies, chanting a simple rhyme or a few words that describe why you’re taking part of its energy(leaves and flowers), and/or by placing an object of worth in the soil at the base of the plant. If you have nothing else with you, put a coin or dollar bill beneath the plant before havesting. This represents your willingness to give of yourself in exchange for the plant’s sacrifice.

*Never collect more than 25 percent of the plant’s growth. If you’re collecting roots you must, of course, take the whole plant, so be sure to leave other nearby plants of the same type untouched.

*Don’t collect after rain or heavy dew. At least, not until the Sun has dried the plants. Otherwise they might mold while drying.

*Choose your collection site carefully. Never collect plants near highways, roads, stagnant or polluted waters, near factories or military installations.

To dry herbs you’ve harvested, strip off the leaves of flowers and lay on ceramic, wooden or steel racks in a warm, dry place out of direct sunlight. Or place them in baskets and shake the herbs daily until dry. Store in airtight, labelled jars.

Scott Cunningham

“The Complete Book of Incense, Oils & Brews”

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Obtaining Herbs: Growing

Obtaining Herbs

Growing

Growing your own herbs is an intriguing art. Herbs can be difficult to successfully grow, but when they do, you’re rewarded with a plentiful supply of flowers, leaves, seeds, barks and roots.

Any bookstore or library will have good books outlining the basic steps in growing herbs. Find one and utilize the information in it, taking into account local growing conditions. Most nurseries and department stores stock herb seeds and starter plants.

Magickally guard herbs when growing them by placing small quartz crystals in the soil. To ensure that they flourish, wear jade when watering or tending them, or put a piece of moss-agate in the earth.

When the plant has matured or is large enough, begin harvesting by using the basic system mentioned above. Thank the plant and the Earth for its treasures.

Scott Cunningham

The Complete Book of Incense, Oils & Brews

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Obtaining Herbs: Purchasing

Obtaining Herbs

Purchasing

Many of the ingredients used in herb magick come from far-flung parts of the globe. While I’d love to grow a sandalwood tree on my front porch, it’s just not possible.

So many herbs have to be purchased. This doesn’t lessen them in any way; in fact, the herb trade ensures that plant materials which would otherwise be unavailable can be obtained and used in magick.

Use mail-order herb and essential oil suppliers, you will be able to buy magickal herbs from around the world while sipping herb teas in your living room.

Then again, most larger cities and towns have at least one herb shop or health food store which stock herbs.Check your phone book.

Take care when buying essential oils. If the salesperson say, “Yes, it’s real jasmine oil!” and it carries a $3.00 price tag, it’s real synthetic jasmine oil. Even those oils labelled “essential” are usually the products of the laboratory rather than of the fields.

One good yardstick is price. Most true essential oils sell for between $10 and $40 per 1/3 or 1/2 ounce. Some, such as camomile, yarrow, cardamom, neroli, jasmine and rose can be far costlier. Buy carefully!

Synthetics have long been used in magickal herbalism, but I urge you to use only true essential oils.

Regarding herbs: Many stores can’t be relied upon to lay in fresh stock at regular intervals, so the rosemary you buy may be several years old. In general, choose dried herbs with bright colors, with few stem pieces and with fresh smells.

Avoid all herbs that are mostly stem, that have varying discoloration, are insect-damaged or moldy. Also avoid any with little scent if the herb is usually heavily fragranced.

Buying by mail complicates this process–its tough to determine whether the frankincense you’ve ordered is top quality. Simply avoid ordering more herbs from suppliers who send you lesser quality herbs.

And remember–suppliers are at the mercy of the growers. Obtaining a year-round supply of first-grade herbs is often difficult. So use what you can find and hunt for better supplies in the future.

Scott Cunningham

The Complete Book of Incense, Oils and Brews

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Starting the Herbs

Starting the Herbs

Herbs can be grown from seeds, cuttings or roots.

Seeds
If you know someone who grows herbs from seed, see if you can beg or barter a
few seeds from them – why buy a whole packet if you can get just enough for your
needs? Seeds are easy to work with. You can start seeds growing in trays filled
with potting mix – try using egg cartons, paper cups, cut-off milk cartons, or
plastic trays (try take-away food trays, or the kind you buy cakes, etc, in).
Keep the soil damp and preferably have the trays somewhere where they will catch
a great deal of light and be kept warm. Transplant them into a larger container
after the second set of leaves has formed and the seedlings look strong.

Cuttings
If you know someone with herb plants, perhaps they would let you have a few
cuttings. Herbs that grow well from cuttings include rosemary, lavender, mint,
thyme, scented geraniums and oregano. Take the cutting in spring or (preferably)
summer, using a section of stem without flowers which is at least a few inches
long. The stem should be firm enough that it can’t be merely pinched off. A side
branch growing from the main stem of the plant is best. Use shears to remove the
stem, and make a slanting cut below the lowest set of leaves. If you can take a
cutting which has a ‘foot’ on it, so much the better – this means that there
will be more space for the stem to suck up water and nutrients from the soil.
Remove the lower sets of leaves, leaving a reasonable section of bare stem –
this is where the roots will form. However, you should leave a few sets of
leaves at the top of the cutting. Poke a hole gently into the potting mix and
insert the bare stem of the cutting, then press the rest of the potting mix
firmly around it. Water well, and after the first watering keep the soil moist
but not completely saturated. The cutting will be ready to transplant when it
has started to grow more leaves, or when it has formed enough roots that it
resists being pulled out of the ground when you tug very gently on it.

Roots
Certain herbs grow best from root pieces – comfrey and ginger being good
examples. Take a healthy-looking ‘finger’ of root, plant it in the soil and keep
it well-watered and in a warm sunny place. The root will grow into a healthy
plant, which in turn can have more root fingers taken from it when it’s mature.

Care of Container Plants
I suggest you buy, beg or borrow a good book on caring for herbs in your own
country, as what you should do with them does vary greatly depending on
conditions.

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HERBAL BASICS

 

HERBAL BASICS
By Don Wildgrube ñ 1992

In Herbalism, the definition of herb is not the dictionary definition. Herb
refers to all parts of the plant, whether it is the leaves (dictionary
definition), stems, seeds, roots, flowers or fruit, and each are prepared
differently.

Unless noted otherwise, the rule of thumb for herbal teas are as follows:

1 Teaspoon of herb per cup of water. Most recipes call for 2 cups of water (one
pint) per person or dose. This would need 2 teaspoons, total, of the herb. If
three or more herbs are used, mix the herbs in proportion in a container then
measure out 2 teaspoons. Please note that some powdered herbs are too
concentrated to be used at this strength, for example cayenne pepper and
capsicum.

For regular teas (hot infusions):
Leaves and flowers are steeped. Boiling water is poured over the herb and
allowed to steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Sometimes it is good to allow them to
steep longer to increase the strength, but herbs like Chamomile should be
steeped no longer then 5 minutes or they will become bitter.

Seeds should be bruised and steeped in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes.

Stems, bark, roots should be chopped and simmered for a minimum of 5
minutes.

Fruit coatings such as citrus can be “zested” and added to hot water to
steep. Do not boil or the volatile oils will go off in the vapor. Fruit juices
can be added while steeping or just before drinking.

Teas may also be made by COLD INFUSION, commonly known as “Sun Tea”. Please note that the Sun is not necessary. Just place the herb in cold water, in
the proper proportion as above, and let stand, in the shade, in the Sun or
wherever, for at least 2 hours. This is an excellent method to extract the
essence from very fragile hers, such as flowers. This way the essence will not
be “boiled off”.

Another method is called maceration. This means to soak in a liquid to get the
essence of the herb. It us usually done in one of two ways. The first is soaking
in oil, the result is an “oil”, the second is soaking in alcohol, and called a
tincture.

Oils are made by filling a bottle with the herb, pouring oil over the herb to
fill the bottle. Let it stand for a week or two, shaking daily, then strain the
used herbs out. If the oil is not strong enough, add more herb to the bottle or
jar and pour the same oil over it. Repeat as often as necessary.

The same method is used for tinctures and is an excellent way to extract certain
oils that can be damaged by boiling. Place the herb in a jar or bottle, pour
alcohol over the herb. Note: do not use rubbing alcohol, or wood alcohol. These
are very poisonous. Wood alcohol is made from just that and can cause blindness
and brain damage. Rubbing alcohol or other “denatured” alcohols are denatured by
adding things such as acetone. Use alcohol which is manufactured to drink. I
use Vodka, and I buy the plain label brands or the cheapest brand.

To make salves, put a large amount of herb in a bowl. Add 1 pound of lard or
other semi-solid fat, plus 2 to 3 ounces of bees wax (for firmness). Place in a
low-medium oven, 250-300 degrees for 3 hours. Strain, bottle and cool.

There are many more types of herbal preparations that are not listed here, they
may be found in many herbal books. I would suggest a good herbal book, such as
“The Herb Book” by John Lust. In regard to Herbal Books, some books have very
valuable information, but others have information that can be harmful. Be
cautious, check several sources. Some Herbal Books such as “Culpeppers Herbal”
base their information on planetary considerations, or the “doctrine of
signatures”. Planetary rulership of herbs is useful for magical purposes, but
may get you into trouble when used for other purposes. The “doctrine of
signatures” in essence says that Herbs heal parts of the body that they look
like, such as: Broad Leaf Plantain looks like the sole of the foot, therefore is
for healing feet, or Toothwort and Dandelion (Dent = tooth, of the Lion) is for
teeth because they look like teeth, or Boneset for setting bones because the
opposing leaves are joined at the stalk.

I hope that the above information will be of some help, and happy Wortcunning.

 

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Indoor Herbs

Indoor Herbs

Indoor plants need a lot of light; most of them will prefer a good 6-8 hours of
natural sunlight per day, so try to position them near windows or under skylights. If you can’t get enough natural light for them, consider installing a
grow-light. Most herbs prefer humid surroundings, so if the air in your house is
dry, keep a little mister nearby and use it regularly. They like it warm, but
keeping them right near a heater, stove or heating duct will be far too dry for
them. One of the best places for culinary herbs is your kitchen windowsill,
where they’ll get some sunlight and will be near the tap to be watered
regularly.

Herbs which can be grown indoors include mint, basil, lavender, scented
geranium, sage, rosemary, chives, sage, lemon verbena, thyme, parsley, marjoram.

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WOTC Extra – A Simple Herbal List

Witchy Comments & Graphics
WOTC Extra – A Simple Herbal List

I’ve compiled a short list of some very beneficial herbs to keep in your Witches’ Cupboard if you have one, or if you want to start one.

I’ve also listed “The Witches’ 3 X 3” – a list of nine healing herbs, indicated by an (***) sign.

CAMPHOR

Pain reliever, heals skin – lips, nose, burns. Sacred to the Godess, used in full moon rituals as an offering to the Goddess, purification, promotes celibacy, heightens physical energy.

CATNIP***

treats colds, reduces fever, aids indigestion, curbs flatulence. Strengthens the psychic bond between humans and animals; for courage, true love, lasting happiness.

CAYENNE***

Very important first aid herb. Does not burn the skin or inner tissues, but feels hot. Helps coagulate blood, internally and externally. Can be sprinkled directly onto a bleeding cut. Good for heart disease.

CHAMOMILE***

Soothing to the body & mind, sedative before bed as a tea, mind pain reliever as a compress/ For good luck or changing your luck, prevents lightning strikes to your house or person, prosperity, meditation aid.

CLOVE

Eases toothache pain, calms stomach pain, relieves gas. Banishes hostility or negative energy, increases personal gain, clears a cloudy mind, increases friendship or love.

COLTSFOOT***

Pain relief, allergy & cough suppressant. Used in spells for wealth, prosperity & love.

COMFREY***

Very nutritious. Sooths the stomach, heals sprains, strains, fractures, sores, arthritis. Used in protection spells and safety when travelling.

DIAMIANA

Aphrodisiac, improves digestion, relieves cough. Use in sex magick spells, for clairvoyance, divination.

DEVIL’S SHOESTRING

Protection, luck, for a raise or new job; invisibility.

FENNELL

Aids digestion, can be chewed or brewed to tea for weight loss, gas relief, halitosis. Imparts strength & sexual virility. Prevents curses.

GALANGAL ROOT

Cleanses system internaly. Take at the onset of colds or flu. Doubles money in gambling, use to win in court. Sex magick, hex breaking, aids psychic powers.

GARLIC***

Good for hair, skin, digestion, lungs, blood health. Lowers cholesterol & blood pressure. Good for ear infections. Heals colds, flu. Tincture by steeping in olive oil. Use for magickal healing, protection, exorcism.

GINGER***

Relaxing stimulant! Use after large meals to settle stomach, induces perspiration while sweating out a fever, aids the liver. Powerful aphrodisiac when sprinkled in steeping raspberry leaf tea.

GINSING

Rejuvenates & promotes longevity. Andi-depressant. Use with St. John’s Wort. Equalizes blood pressure & digestion. For use in love spells, beauty & healing spells.

HEAL ALL

All purpose healing. Gargle with cold brew for a sore throat, use as a poultice for cuts, abrasions, minor contusions. Use in spells for success in gambling.

HIBISCUS

Ant

i-spasmodic. Remedy for itchy-skin or mild hives. Apply fresh brew or tonic to skin. Sweetens breath. Attracts love. Use for dream work or divination.

HIGH JOHN THE CONQUEROR

To conquer any situation. To win at gambling, in court. For good luck, money, love, health, protection. To find lost items.

JASMINE

Calmes nervous tic, use as a poultice for snakebite. Attracts money & love. For use in divination, charging crystals, moon magick.

KAVA KAVA

Powerful when used as an aphrodisiac. Potion to induce visions, use in astral travel work, for protection in travelling.

LAVENDER

ALL PURPOSE. Stomach problems, nausea & vomiting (used as a tonic) healing, inner peace, peace of mind, anti-stress, finding love, money, protection, attracting good spirits & faeries, purification, peaceful sleep, headache relief, menstrual cramp relief (when inhaled).

LOBELIA***

~~POISONOUS – USE EXTREME CAUTION~~ FOR USE IN SMALL DOSES ONLY!

Anti-spasmodic, anti-convulsive for epileptic seizures or temper tantrums. Calms pain in small doses, muscle spasms, tension headaches, menstrual cramps. Helps to end addictions & sooth withdrawls symptons.

MUGWORT

Appetite stimulant, digestive aid. Visions, dreams, clairvoyance, protection, strength in travelling. To consecrate divination tools, to add or boost power in tools of scrying.

PATCHOULI

Reverses spells, peacefully gets rid of trouble makers. Use in clairvoyance, divination, sex magick. Use to manifest & draw money.

PENNYROYAL

~~CAUTION – USE IN SMALL DOSES ONLY~~

Repels insects, calms skin itch or nervous itch. Treats & soothes nausea, treats colds & flu. Use in consecration rituals, exorcism.

PEPPERMINT

Soothes nausea & upset stomach, heartburn, colds, flu. Calming, good for motion sickness. Promotes peaceful sleep, visionary dreams. Boosts psychic abilities.

PLANTAIN***

Blood detoxifier for treatment of poison ivy, snakebite, bee stings, mosquito bites, etc. Apply juice of crushed leaves to bites & stings. Reapply often, drink brew of leaves made into tea, eat & chew on fresh leaves.

RASPBERRY LEAF

for kidney strength, infections. Diarreah, nausea, colds and flu. Calming to the nerves as a tonic. Promotes peaceful sleep. Use for visionary work, protection, love spells.

ROSEMARY

Nerve stimulant, digestive aid. Aids memory, soothes headache, eases depression when inhaled. Use for protection, exorcisms, purification, healing, stimulate lust. Powerful fumitory.

ROSE HIPS

Very nutritious, high in Vitamin C. Take for colds or flu, reduces fever. Mild laxative, good for acne. For spells concerning good luck, use to summon good spirits.

SAGE

Use as an antiperspirant, healing to wounds. Aids digestion, relieves muscle and joint pain. Gargle to heal sores of the mouth & gums. Healing to colds & flu, reduces fever, preservative. For use in spells for wisdom, healing, money, protection, longevity, powerful fumitory for ritual.

SANDALWOOD

Use a poultice for bruises & minor contusions, reduces fever. For use in clairvoyance & protection spells, purification, meditation. Burned in rituals, aids in magickal work, stimulates sexual urges, aids in healing spells.

SKULLCAP

Tranquilizer & anti-insomniatic. Sedative (mild to moderate) Eases nervous tension, drug & alcohol withdrawl symptoms, eases menstrual symdrome. Use for fidelity, commitment. Relieves anxiety. Promotes relaxation & peaceful feeling.

ST. JOHN’S WORT

Wound healing, immune system booster. Anti-insomniatic, headache relief, eases menstrual cramps. Powerful anti-depressant. Use for protection, exorcism, courage, divination rituals.

TONKA BEANS

~~CAUTION! USE EXTERNALLY!~~

For guud luck, draws money, attracts material desires. Wish magick.

VALERIAN

Calms nerves, sleep aid. Treats nervous conditions. Antispasmodic. Reduces blood pressure. Use in love magick, purification, divination, black magick.

VERVAIN

For minor pains and headache, tooth ache, arthritis, other inflammations. For restful sleep, calming nerves. For protection, purification, consecration, potions for love, creativity.

***************************************************************

Because so many herbs are potentially poisonous in various amounts, take extreme caution when dealing with a plant or herb you’re unsure of. Consult a physician, pharmacist or horticulturist before ingesting anything you are uncertain of!

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Let’s Talk Witch – Herbal Preparations

Witchy Comments & Graphics

Let’s Talk Witch – Herbal Preparations

An herbalist’s definition of an herb differs from that of a botanist. The botanist defines an herbaceous plant as one with a fleshy stem that dies back in the winter. The herbalist, however, considers all medicinal and cosmetic plants as <!=-1″>herbs. This broad definition of <!=-1″>herbs includes trees, shrubs, mushrooms, lichens and, of course, fruits and vegetables that have medicinal properties. In many of my recipes, you will find items that you consider food rather than herbs, such as apple juice or <!=214″>shiitake mushrooms.

There are countless different herbs and combinations of herbs that are used for health and healing. But even the most potent herb can become worthless if not properly prepared. Fortunately, there are only a few basic kinds of preparations that are used in treating illnesses and wounds herbally; these are the delivery systems for the healing powers of <!=-1″>herbs.

These preparations transform dried or fresh herbs into something that can be taken internally, such as a tea or capsule, or applied externally, as in a skin salve or a massage oil. In many cases, more than one preparation is applicable for a specific treatment.

Some preparations, such as tinctures and body oils, can be made from either fresh or dried <!=-1″>herbs. The best method for extracting an herb’s properties varies from herb to herb. For example, <!=222″>Saint-John’s-wort, oat berries and <!=99″>feverfew lose most of their properties when dried. A significant portion of the <!=-59″>essential oils in fragrant herbs such as <!=183″>peppermint and <!=61″>chamomile is lost in even the most careful drying process. On the other hand, herbs that contain a great deal of water-<!=75″>comfrey and <!=54″>calendula flowers, for example-are sometimes best when used in dried form; otherwise, the final product will be too diluted.

Whenever one type of preparation is better than another to treat a specific condition, the reason is explained in that chapter. For example, if an <!=13″>aloe vera lotion is better for a burn than a salve is, you will find out why this is so.

Most of these preparations can be bought ready-made from natural food stores-either as individual herbs or in blends of several different herbs. If you feel ambitious enough to make your own concoctions, I have also provided a number of recipes. When deciding which preparation is the most suitable for you, consider availability, cost, convenience and, of course, effectiveness.

Many herbal recipes will use as their basic ingredient not herbs, but <!=-59″>essential oils derived from <!=-1″>herbs. These oils carry many medicinal properties of the herbs from which they are extracted. They are easy to use but are also highly concentrated, so they must be diluted and used moderately to prevent overdoses. As a result, they are mostly used externally, and appropriate cautions are given throughout this book. Do not confuse <!=-59″>essential oils with vegetable oils such as olive oil, which are used as carrier oils in skin products.

Treatments are divided into internal preparations and external preparations, as the nature of the ailment generally determines the nature of the treatment.

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Herb of the Day – GINGER

Herb of the Day – GINGER

Acts as an aid to ingestion or colds (tea form). Also in tea form, good for cramps, to stimulate the digestive organs, migraines and nausea, external stiffness. Can be added to the bath as a way to ease pain and increase circulation, but only use a few sprinkles, not too much, like cayenne, ginger quickly brings the blood to the surface of the skin. For pain you can also soak cloths in ginger tea and apply them directly to the painful areas. A good healing tea is made from a pinch of peppermint, a pinch of ginger and either a pinch of clove powder or 2 bruised cloves, add 1 cup of hot water and steep. Ginger tea sweetened with honey can help alleviate cold symptoms.

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Treat Yourself Today

A Little Special Treat Just for You

Relaxing Lavender Honey Bath

Did you know that Honey has a calming effect? Combined with pure essential oil of Lavender it’s a yummy bath treatment. Why not try it tonight!

2oz. of Honey
5 drops Lavender

Combine in a jar, use 1 -2 Tablespoons per bath. Enjoy!

Brought to you by AromaThyme.com 

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Herb of the Day – Heather

Herb of the Day – Heather

Heather (Calluna Vulgaris) aka heath

Feminine.

Planet: Venus.

Element: Water.

Deity: Isis, Osiris, Venus

Protection, Rain Making, Luck. Robert Graves said heather is “a suitable tree for the inititation of Scottish witches.” Brings one in touch with divinity and increases physical beauty. Wearing an amulet of the wood will bring a long physical life and put one in touch with the truly immortal soul. A valuable herb for those who pursue initiatory paths. Unfolds the inner self. Carried, it will guard against rape or other violent crimes or just to bring good luck. (White heather is best here.) When burned with fern will attract rain.

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Herb of the Day – Periwinkle *POISON*

Herb of the Day –  Periwinkle *POISON*

Periwinkle (Vinca minor) aka Sorcerer’s Violet, Blue Buttons *POISON*
Feminine

Venus

Water.

Patron herb of Wiccans. Love, Lust, Mental Powers, Money, Protection. Best when gathered when the moon is one night old, nine nights old, 11 nights old, 13 nights old, or 30 nights old. The dried flowers may be added to any magickal mixture to enhance the working. Banishes negative energy. Makes one feel desirable. Add dried flowers or root to amulets to bring necessary changes to one’s life to attract a loving partner. Plant on graves of children. Helps grieving parents heal from their loss. Keeps memory of lost child alive without unhealthy attachments.

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Herb of the Day – Aconite

Herb of the Day – Aconite

Aconite

(Aconitum Napellus)

Also called wolfsbane, monkshood, blue rocket *POISON* Don’t ingest.
Gender: Feminine

Planet: Saturn

Sign: Capricorn

Element: Water

Deities: Hecate, Medea

Protection, Invisibility. Use this herb with great caution to consecrate the athame or ritual knife. Make an infusion with the leaves or root to banish prior energy from magickal blades and to infuse it with protection. The root or leaves may be burned as incense for the same purpose. Gather the fresh flowers to make a tincture to refresh the power of the knives. Use an infusion as a magickal wash for ritual tools or sacred space. Brings protection and magickal watchfulness against negative energies in ritual. Wash a new cauldron in the infusion or burn aconite in its first fire. Used to invoke Hecate. Wrap the seed in a lizard skin and carry to become invisible at will. Used to poison arrow tips in early times. Also as protection from and a cure for werewolves

List of (B) Herbs and Their Magickal Use In Incense

BALM OF GILEAD

Element is Water and Fire. Inspiration, knowledge, new love, mend broken heart, protection, strength. Planet is Junipter and Venus

BANYAN
Good luck and wealth.

Basil:Protective, good for love spells and promotes wealth if you carry it in your purse or wallet. Use it for healing relationships and to find out if a partner is genuine

BAY  Element is Fire. Wisdom, protection, clairvoyance, purification. Planet is Jupiter and the Sun

BAYBERRY Element is Earth. Money, good luck, peace, harmony, well-being. Planet is Jupiter

BEECH Wishes, divination, happiness.

BELLADONNA Belladonna(Deadly Nightshade):This herb is little used in modern witchcraft, because of its high toxicity. In days gone by, it was used to encourage Astral Projection, and to produce visions, and was probably an ingredient in the legendary flying ointments used by witches in long ago times.(Warning!!! Poison!)

Benzoin:energy, astral projection and purification

BERGAMOT Element is Air. Hex-breaking, Money. Planet is Mercury

Betony: Use in purification incenses. Can be used in herb pillows to help prevent nightmares

BIRCH Protection, exorcism, purification.

Birch Bark: Highly protective. Boil some of the bark in water, then add this water to the bath, to cocoon yourself in protective energy. Can be burned on charcoal to remove negetive energies from the home or place of business. Hang some over the front door to protect the home.

Bistort:Can be carried for purification and protection. Used in magickal formulas, or sprinkled in the purse or wallet, to promote prosperity. Dwellings can be cleared of ghosts by burning the root as an incense or making an infusion and sprinkling about the house.

BLACKBERRY  Healing, money, protection.

Black Sampson(Echinacea):Used in spells and incenses, for gay men to attract a partner. Carry wrapped in red cloth.

Bladderwrack: To attract customers, and bring good vibrations to your business, make a tea of the herb, and wash shelves, doors and floors with it. Also used to summon the spirits of wind or sea.

BLEEDING HEART  Love, attraction, fidelity.

Blessed Thistle:Energizing and protective-wards off thieves. Place in a bowl in the home or work space. Particularly good in sick rooms

BLOODROOT      Love and luck. Bloodroot:Burn on charcoal, or add an infusion of the herb to bath water to counter hexes and negetive spells. Can be carried in black cloth for protection. Can be carried in red cloth for love

BLUEBELL
Luck, truth, friendship.

BORAGE
Courage, phychic abilities. Borage:Its basic powers are to give strength and courage. Carry in yellow cloth whenever extra strength is needed. Borage: Traditionally used in drinks to lift the spirits. Usefull during stressfull times, it brings courage and ‘good heart’ and is very good for fevers and infections. Starflower oil (an alternitive to Evening Primrose oil) comes from borage.

Brimstone(Sulphur):

Used in exorcism rituals. Burn a small amount on charcoal with all windows and doors open, sprinkle over candles and add to bath water. Do not eat!!

BROOM   Purification, divination, prophetic dreams.

Buckeyes(Horse Chestnut):A famous magickal herb used in the magick of drawing money, and making money. Carry in green cloth with 2 gold colored coins. Add powdered nut to any money incense or potions. Can also be carried in the pocket to attract success.

BURDOCK   Element is Earth and Water. Protection, healing, Earth magick. Planet is Venus

Burdock Root:Basic powers of purification and protection. Cast in the home, or ritual space to ward off negativity. Add to all protection sachets.

List of (C) Herbs And Their Uses In Incenses

Calamus Root: Can be used to bind, or strengthen spells. Also has a good reputation for overturning malicious spells or energies. Often used in spells and potions to attract a lover.

Calendula Flowers(Marigold): Basic powers of love and clairvoyance. Can be added to love sachets. Place flowers under the pillow at night to promote clairvoyant dreams.

CAMELLIA Love, healing, protection, riches.

CAMPHOR  Element is Water. Awakens past life memories, stimulates psychic awareness, health, divination. Planet is Moon and Saturn

Cardamon  Used in love or lust spells. Add to love sachets or incense. Add ground seeds to warm wine or mead for a quick lust potion.

Cassia Bark:  Prosperity and love. Can be added to formulas for extra strength. Carry in green cloth to attract money.

CAPER Potency, love, luck, trust.

Cardamon: potency for love

CARNATION Protection, love, strength, healing.

CATNIP:  Used in: Cat Magik, Animals, Dreams, Luck, Healing

Cedarwood: Burned as an incense to consecrate wands, for baby blessings, and wiccanings. Also burned to invoke Odin. Can be carried in the wallet or purse to attract money. Also good in moth repellent sachets

Celery Seed Burn with Orris Root to increase psychic powers, or with a drop of Basil oil to increase psychic powers.

Chamomile: As an incense Chamomile creates a peaceful atmosphere and helps with centering. Sprinkle it around the house for protection, health and wealth. Good for purifing, it can be burnt to break bad habits and drive out negative thoughts. The tea helps digestion, nervousness and sleep, when cooled use as a rinse for fair hair. Chamomile in hot water used as a facial steam helps acne and greasy skin

Chamomile Flowers:  Used to promote restful states of sleep. Can be used in sleep pillows, with Hops and Lavender. Can also be used in perosperity charms and incense

Chaparell: Highly protective. Can be used in spells and charms, or scattered around the home, or ritual space, for protection.

CHERRY Love, direction, magickal potency, money, lust.

Cinnamon: Good for spells for love, success, psychic ability, healing and cleansing. Use in charms for prosperity, cinnamon oil makes a good oil for anointin

Cinnamon Bark: Burn to raise high spiritual vibrations, and to aid clairvoyance. Also used for prosperity

CLOVER Money, protection, potency, love.

COLTSFOOT Love and visions.

Comfrey: Used for travel and spells for wealth and healing. Comfrey honours the Godess’ Crone state. Don’t eat or drink comfrey as some parts may be toxic and especially dangerous to the liver.

Coriander: Protects the home and is used to promote peace. Good for love spells and to encourages long life.For personal worth and esteem

Cowslip: Brings luck in love, and helps induce contact in dreams with loved ones who have passed away

Cumin: exorcism and protection

CYPRESS Longevity, healing, protection, comfort.

 

List of (A) Herbs And Their Uses In Incenses

ALFALFA Element is Earth Abundance and fertility. Deities Green Goddess, Demeter, Ogun, Venus Planet is Jupiter and Venus

Alum: (Destroys Negativity) Alum can be placed in a dish, in a room infested with negative energies, as it absorbs the watery energy they live in. Can also be used in magickal inks. Not to be eaten.

Alum Root Herb: (Protection, Sleep) Profoundly protective. Can be carried in red cloth, added to bath water, or made into an infusion and sprinkled about the home or ritual space. Strew herb beneath the bed for protection while sleeping.

Amber Resin Element is Earth. Stability, self-confidence, protection, peace. Planet is Junipter and moon

Anise: Used in: Divination, Fertility, luck, Happiniess, Love, Meditation, Prosperity, Protection

Asafoetida (Devils Dung): (Protection,                                    Exorcism, Purification) An appropriately named, legendary magickal herb. Asafoetida is one of most potent ingredients to destroy negativity. It is said to destroy psychic attacks, curses, hexes, jinxes, and nasty spirits cannot stand the stuff.(Neither can most humans..so it is usally a last resort!)

Angelica: Protects, the dried leaves are burnt during exorcisms. Angelica root can be carried as an amulet.

Apple: Great for making wands, used in love spells and for charms to bring good luck.

ASH (es) Protection, prosperity, fertility, loyalty and fidelity.

ASPEN (esp) Clairvoyance and healing.

Magickal Substitutes for Herbs

Magickal Substitutes for Herbs

Acacia – Gum Arabic
Acacia Gum – Gum Arabic
Aconite – Tobacco
Arabic, Gum – Frankincense, Gum Mastic
Ammoniac Gum – Asafetida
Asafetida – Tobacco, Velerian
Balm of Gilead – Rose Buds, Gum Mastic
Belladonna – Tobacco
Benzoin – Gum Arabic, Gum Mastic
Camphor Oil – Eucalyptus Oil, Lavender Oil
Carnation – Rose Petals
Cassia – Cinnamon
Castor Beans – Four Drops of Castor Oil
Cedar – Sandalwood
Cinquefoil – Clover, Trefoil
Citron – One part Orange and One part Lemon Peel
Clove – Mace, Nutmeg
Clover – Cinquefoil
Copal – Frankincense, Cedar
Cowbane – Tobacco
Cypress – Juniper, Pine Needles
Deers Tongue – Tonka bean, Woodruff, Vanilla
Dittany of Crete – Gum Mastic
Dragons Blood – 1 part Frankincense and 1 part Red Sandalwood
Eucalyptus Oil – Camphor Oil, Lavender Oil
Frankincense – Copal, Pine Resin
Galangal – Ginger Root
Grains of Paradise – Black Pepper
Gum Ammoniac – Asafetida
Gum Bedllium – Copal, Pine Resin, Dragon’s Blood
Hellebore – Tobacco, Nettle
Hemlock – Tobacco
Hemp – Nutmeg, Damiana, Star Anise, Bay
Henbane – Tobacco
Hyssop – Lavender
Ivy – Cinquefoil
Jasmine – Rose
Juniper – Pine
Lavender – Rose
Lemon Grass – Lemon Peel
Lemon Verbena – Lemon Grass, Lemon Peel
Mace – Nutmeg
Mandrake – Tobacco
Mastic Gum – Gum Arabic, Frankincense
Mint – Sage
Mistletoe – Mint, Sage
Mugwort – Wormwood
Neroli Oil – Orange Oil
Nightshade – Tobacco
Nutmeg – Mace, Cinnamon
Oakmoss – Patchouli
Orange- Tangerine Peel
Orange Flower – Orange Peel
Patchouli – Oak Moss
Peppermint – Spearmint
Pepperwort – Rue, Grains of Paradise, Black Pepper
Pine – Juniper
Pine Resin – Frankincense, Copal
Red Sandalwood – Sandalwood and Dragons Blood
Rose – Yarrow
Rose Geranium – Rose
Rue – Rosemary, w/pinch of Black Pepper
Saffron – Orange Peel
Sandalwood – Cedar
Sarsaparilla – Sassafras
Sassafras – Sarsaparilla
Spearmint – Peppermint
Sulfur – Tobacco; Club Moss, Asafetida
Thyme – Rosemary
Tobacco – Bay
Tonka Bean – Dear Tongue, Woodruff, Vanilla Bean
Trefoil – Cinquefoil
Valerian – Asafetida
Vanilla – Woodruff, Deer Tongue, Tonka Bean
Vetivert – Calamus
Wolfsbane – Tobacco
Wood Aloe – Sandalwood w/Ambergris Oil
Woodruff – Deer Tongue, Vanilla
Wormwood – Mugwort
Yarrow – Rose
Yew – Tobacco

Current Moon Phase for Jan. 7 – First Quarter Moon

First Quarter Moon

(waxing/45% of Full)

Emotions begin to stir coupled with recognizing that the new beginnings you are making must also increase personal security to be worthwhile over the long haul. This is a time when it’s appropriate to get in touch with your gut instincts and begin to guide your life more deliberately, with an awareness of using your “sixth sense” as well as your enthusiasm. Obstacles may emerge that require you to reevaluate how to better integrate yourself into your immediate environment.

Herb of the Day – Apple

Herb of the Day – Apple

Apple(Pyrus spp.) aka Silver bough, silver branch, tree of love
Feminine. Venus.

Element: Water

Deities:: Pomona, Venus, Dionysus, Olwen, Apollo, Hera, Athena, Aphrodite, Diana, Zeus, Iduna

Love, Healing, Garden Magick, Immortality. Use apple branches to make wands ideally suited for emotional and love magick. The apple branch will gain one admittance to the faery underworld. For healing, cut an apple into three pieces, rub on the afflicted part of the body, and bury outside. Do this during the waning moon to banish illness. Apples can be used for poppets or the apple wood carved into a poppet. Powder dried seeds and bark to burn as incense. (Caution: more than a few apple seeds can be poisonous). Apples are associated with the dead and Samhain, which is often called the Feast of Apples.

Herb of the Day – Agrimony

Herb of the Day – Agrimony

Agrimony

(Agrimonia eupatoria) Also called Church steeples, cocklebur, stickwort, sticklewort

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

Protection, Sleep.

Agrimony is best known for its sleep-inducing qualities, therefore it is excellent in dream pillows, especially mixed with mugwort. Enhances magickal healing. A wash or oil increases effectiveness of all forms of ritual healing, psychic healing, or distance healing. Anoint hands with oil to cleanse auras. Creates a barrier against negative energies. Use if you feel to be under psychic attack. A counter-magick herb, it not only breaks hexes, but sends them back to the hexer.