Category: Oils & Ointments

A Quicker Method to Herbal Infused Oils

A Quicker Method to Herbal Infused Oils


Items You Will Need:
2 – 3 oz. dried herbs or 3 – 4 oz. fresh
1 1/4 cups unblended vegetable oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
A heat-proof container with a tight-fitting lid (jam jars work well)

Chop the herb and put it in the container with all the oil. Put the container in a pan filled with water to within 1 inch of the top of the container of oil. Simmer slowly for 2 hours.

After 2 hours, allow the oil to cool, and strain well. Discard the spent herbs (makes lovely compost). Refill the canister with the remaining herbs and return to the water bath (remember to replace the lid). Simmer for another 2 hours. Be sure to check the water level occasionally so as to not burn the oil.

When the oil has cooled enough to work with, pour it through a jelly bag or sieve lined with cheesecloth. If using fresh herbs, there may be a watery liquid at the bottom of the oil.

This must be separated and discarded, or else it will spoil the oil over time. This oil can be used as a base for ointments, creams, or salves, or as a massage oil.

Essential Oils and Their Magickal Properties

SCENTED OILS AND THEIR MAGICKAL POWERS



ACACIA: Possessing high spiritual vibrations, this oil is worn to aid meditation and to develop psychic powers. Some also use it to anoint their altars, censers, and candles.

ALL-SPICE: Very vitalizing. Gives added determination and energy, excellent for convalescents. Anoint daily.

ALMOND: Almond oil, the symbol of wakefulness to the Egyptians, is used in prosperity rituals (anointing candles, money, etc.) and also added to money incenses.

ANISE: A boon to clairvoyance, it is often added to a ritual bath preceding any attempt at divination. It is also worn during divinatory rituals.

APPLE BLOSSOM: Wear to promote happiness and success. Anoint candles during love rituals. Add to bath to aid relaxation.

BASIL: The scent of basil causes sympathy between two people so wear to avoid major clashes. It creates harmony of all kinds. Prostitutes used to wear it in Spain to attract business.

BAYBERRY: Anoint green candles for prosperity in the home. Brings “luck to your home and gold to your pocket.” A magnetic oil to be worn by men.

BENZOIN: This oil brings peace of mind. It is used in purification ceremonies. A drop or two smoldering on a charcoal block will effectively clear the area with billowing clouds of smoke.

BERGAMOT: Used in protective rituals and also in drawing prosperity. Wear on the palm of each hand.

CAMPHOR: Wear to strengthen psychic powers. Also anoint yourself when you have decided to break off with a lover, or when they have done so with you and you find it hard to let go.

CARNATION: This is an oil of power. It is used as an energy restorer after exertion, as an aid to healing, and in consecration ceremonies. Should be worn when extra energy for a ritual is desired.

CINNAMON: A high-vibration oil, used for personal protection. It is also a sexual stimulant in the female. Added to any incense, it increases its powers. Mixed with powdered sandalwood, it makes an incense suitable for all religious or spiritual magic. God for meditation, illumination, and so on.

CINQUEFOIL: Protective, strengthens the five senses. Also “five lucks”- love, money, health, power and wisdom, so is often used to anoint amulet and charm bags.

CLOVE: An aphrodisiac, worn to attract lovers. Inhaled, the oil helps memory and eyesight.

CORIANDER: A love oil used to anoint candles.

CUMIN SEED: Brings peace and harmony to the home. Anoint all doorways once a week just before sunrise when the household is asleep ad all is quiet.

CYCLAMEN: Worn to ease childbirth by the expectant mother. Also used in love and marriage spells.

CYPRESS: An oil of blessing, consecration and protection. It is a symbol of the Earth-element, as well as of death. When attending a funeral of a friend or loved one, wear this oil so that you will be uplifted by the meaning of death as the doorway to but another life. It also effectively screens out the negative vibrations of the mourners. Wear on Samhain to become aware and remember those who have passed on.

EUCALYPTUS: A healing oil, very useful in recuperation after long illnesses. Cures colds with daily application to the throat, forehead and wrists, and by adding it to healing baths. Also used for purifications.

FRANKINCENSE: One of the most sacred of all oils, used to anoint magical tools, the altar, etc. A strong purifier used in exorcisms, purification rituals, and blessings.

GARDENIA: Wear to attract love. A powerful feminine magnetic oil. Protective.

GINGER: A tropical aphrodisiac. Induces passion.

HELIOTROPE: High spiritual vibrations, drenched with the energies of the Sun. Aids in clairvoyance.

HONEYSUCKLE: An oil of the mind, it promotes quick thinking and is often used as a memory aid by dabbing on the temples. Also used in prosperity rituals.

HYACINTH: Brings peace of mind to the mentally disturbed. A very relaxing oil.

HYSSOP: Increases finances, and is added to the bath to create a purifying atmosphere. An excellent oil to wear during all types of magical rituals.

JASMINE: Symbol of the Moon, and of the mysteries of the night. Jasmine oil is used to attract love. The scent helps one relax, sleep, and also facilitates
childbirth. It is sometimes used for meditation and general anointing purposes.

This is a purely spiritual oil.

LAVENDER: Used in healing and purifying rituals, and also to arouse sexual desire in men. Prostitutes wore it extensively to advertise their trade and to attract customers.

LEMON GRASS: An aid to the psychic powers. Wear on the forehead. Spiritualists and mediums use it, for it helps make contact with spirits.

LILAC: Induces Far Memory, the act of recalling past lives. It is also useful in inducing clairvoyant powers in general. Brings peace and harmony.

LOTUS: The sacred oil of the ancient Egyptians, lotus oil has a high spiritual vibration and is suitable for blessing, anointing, meditation, and as a dedicatory oil to your god(s). It is also used in healing rituals. One who wears lotus oil is sure of good fortune and much happiness.

MAGNOLIA: An excellent oil for meditation and psychic development. It also brings peace and harmony.
MELILOT: Fights depression, or what the old Witches used to call melancholy.

MIMOSA: Used in healing rituals, and also in producing prophetic dreams. Anoint the forehead before retiring.

MINT: Used in prosperity spells, and to increase one’s business. Anoint wallets, etc.

MUSK: The universally accepted “sex scent”. It is also worn to purify and to gain courage. It is a magnetic oil, worn with equal success by both sexes.

MYRRH: A purification, protection and hex-breaking oil. Possesses a high vibratory rate, making it excellent for the more religious rituals of magic. Anoint the house every morning and evening as part of any protection ritual.

NARCISSUS: “Stupidfyer”. This oil brings peace and harmony, soothes the nerves and relaxes the conscious mind. A “narcotic” type oil.

NEROLI: Magnetic women’s oil. Rubbed between the breasts to attract men, or onto the temples to give peace.
NUTMEG: This oil is rubbed onto the temples and the third eye to help in meditation and to induce sleep. It is protective as well.

ORANGE BLOSSOM: To make a person in the mood for marriage, wear this oil. Many women add it to their daily baths to build up their attractiveness. Sometimes known as mantrap.
ORRIS ROOT: Attracts the opposite sex. Douse your clothes with the oil.

PATCHOULI: A very powerful occult oil, one of the magnetic oils to be worn by men. It attracts women. Also wards off negativity and evil, gives peace of mind, and is very sensual.

PEONY: A lucky scent for all who need customers, success in business, or good fortune.

PEPPERMINT: Used to create changes within one’s life. Also used to relax and allow one to unwind.

ROSE: The love oil. Used in all love operations, added to baths, and to induce peace and harmony. Take a handful of rose buds, place them in a silver goblet. Pour one dram rose oil over them. Let soak for a week. After this, on a Friday night, burn them over the charcoal to infuse your house with loving vibrations. This is an excellent “peace” incense, and can be done regularly to ensure domestic tranquility.

ROSE GERANIUM: Oil of protection. Anoint window sills, doors of house. Wear on self. Also imparts courage to the wearer. An excellent oil to use to bless a new home or apartment. A few drops on a charcoal block will release its powerful vibrations throughout the entire house. Also used to anoint censers.

ROSEMARY: A very vitalizing oil, rosemary is used in healing rituals and also to promote prudence, common sense, and self assurance. It aids mental powers when rubbed onto the temples. It is also protective and is used much like Rose
Geranium. Rub onto the temples to ease pain of headache and in all healing rituals.

RUE: To break up negativity and curses, anoint a sprig of dried rue with this oil. Tie up in a red bag and carry for protection. Add nine drops of the oil to the bath every night for nine nights in succession during the waning moon to break a spell that has been cast against you. Salt may be added to the bath as well.

SAFFRON: Wear to aid in the development of clairvoyant powers.

SANDALWOOD: Protective, very healing, this oil is used to anoint. It also aids one in seeing past incarnations. Try anointing the forehead to promote the Sight.

SESAME: Gives hope to one who is sick, discouraged or lonely.

SWEET PEA: One of the most beautiful of all scents, sweet pea oil is worn to attract strangers of all kinds, some of whom may become lovers or friends. Wear as a personal oil.
SPIKENARD: Wear during rituals to the ancient deities of Egypt, also to anoint sacred objects, such as altars, tools, etc.

TUBEROSE: Mistress of the Night, as it is also known, is an excellent aphrodisiac. Promotes peace and also aids in psychic powers. Men wear it to attract women. Very much a physical oil.

VANILLA: A vitalizing oil, said to be sexually arousing in women. Use as an energy restorer. Sometimes used to gain extra power during magical ceremonies.

VERVAIN: Assists in obtaining material objects. It also stimulates creativity. Aids those who desire success in the performing and creative arts.

VIOLET: The oil is used in love operations and is sometimes sexually exciting. However, many people cant’s stand the fragrance of the violet, for some curious reason. Once thought to be sacred to the Fairy Queen. Very healing, added to baths.

WISTERIA: The door between the world of men and the realm of the Gods, the passport to higher consciousness and existence, and to bring illumination. Wear only when in complete serenity.

YLANG-YLANG: Makes its wearer irresistible to the opposite sex. Also soothes the problems of married life. Can help in finding a job. If worn to interviews you will be much calmer and more impressive to the interviewer. Sometimes called “Flower of Flowers.”

Zodiac Essential Oil Blends

Zodiac Essential Oil Blends

Aries-red
rose (main scent) frankincense (main) ginger (minor)
Cedarwood (minor) cinnamon (trace) pine (trace)
Add red jasper or ruby to the bottle.

Taurus-light yellow
rose (main) jasmine (main) patchouli (minor)
Ylang-ylang(minor) thyme (minor) vetiver (minor)
Add rose quartz or emerald to bottle.

Gemini-light blue
lavender (main) lemongrass (main) violet (minor)
rose (minor) bergamot (minor) peppermint (trace)
Add aquamarine or beryl to bottle.

Virgo-indigo blue
lavender (main) patchouli (main) peppermint (minor)
cypress (minor) verbena (minor) bergamot (minor)
Add carnelian or agate to bottle.

Libra-dark crimson
rose (main) rose geranium (main) lavender (minor)
magnolia (minor) violet (minor) marjoram (minor)
Add topaz or opal to bottle.

Scorpio-brown
myrrh (main) pine (main) lemon (minor)
gardenia (minor) verbena (minor) cinnamon (trace)
Add garnet or topaz to bottle.

Sagittarius-purple
clove (main) nutmeg (main) musk (minor)
juniper (minor) rosemary (minor) frankincense (minor)
Add turquoise to bottle.

Capricorn-gray
patchouli (main) cypress (minor) vetiver (minor)
pine (minor) jasmine (minor) myrrh (minor)
Add quartz crystal or garnet to bottle.

Aquarius-bright blue
lavender (main) patchouli (main) jasmine (minor)
cypress (minor) verbena (minor) vetiver (minor)
Add amethyst to bottle.

Pisces-light purple
sandalwood (main) ylang-ylang (main) clove (minor)
jasmine (minor) ambergris (minor) patchouli (trace)
Add jade or aquamarine to bottle.

Cancer-light green
jasmine (main) lotus (minor) gardenia (minor)
sandalwood (minor) myrrh (minor) camphor (trace)
Add moonstone to bottle.

Leo-orange yellow
frankincense (main) sandalwood (minor) orange (minor)
musk (minor) patchouli (minor) cinnamon (trace)
Add tiger’s eye or ruby to bottle.

 

Tuesday’s Magickal Philter – Philter Recipe for Courage

Philter Recipe for Courage


You Will Need:

One small decorative glass bottle, red if you can find it
Base oil, approximately Vs cup (sunflower or almond oil)
Clean dropper
3 drops ginger oil
z drops basil oil or 2 fresh basil leaves
i drop black pepper oil
i small fresh holly leaf
Small red jasper chip
6 inches thin red or black satin ribbon
i small metal protective charm or talisman of your choosing (such as a tiny pentagram, a star, or even the Eye of Horus)
A label and a pen (to list the ingredients and to decorate and mark the bottle)

Pour the base oil into the bottle, enough to fill it three quarters of the way full. Add the essential oils one at a time. Next, add the crystal and the holly leaf. If you used basil leaves instead of oil, add those now. Close up the bottle with the lid, place your fingers over the lid, and carefully shake up the mixture. Hold up the mixture to the sunlight, and allow the light of Tuesday’s sun to illuminate the philter within.

Wipe off the outside of the bottle. Use the label to list the ingredients and the use of this potion. Decorate the bottle by drawing protective symbols on the label or whatever ever else you think would add to the magick. Attach the label to the glass bottle and finish up by threading the metal charm onto the ribbon and then tying the red or black ribbon around the neck of the bottle.

As you finish tying on the bow, hold the bottle in your hands and concentrate on the visualization that your aura is pulsing a deep red, filled with vitality, courage and protection. See it in your mind’s eye and feel it all over your body. Now send all that energy straight into the bottle you hold in your hands. Take a deep breath, hold it for three counts, and then blow it out slowly. Now, repeat the charm below:

Basil, holly, and ginger are associated with Mars
Tap into a warrior’s energy and you will go far
Red and black are the Martian hues of power
My spell begins in this enchanted hour
This Tuesday philter will add valor galore
I am courageous and strong forever more!

Set aside the bottle, and ground and center yourself. Clean up the supplies, then go for a quick walk and firmly reconnect yourself back to the earthly plane. Make sure to store the philter in a dark, dry place and out of the reach of young children.

 

—Book of Witchery: Spells, Charms & Correspondences for Every Day of the Week
Ellen Dugan

 

The Perfect Magickal Philter for Saturday – Magickal Protection Oil

Witching NightMagickal Protection Oil

This recipe will enable you to create your own magickal protection oil. Add this to candles or dab a bit onto a talisman or a sachet bag filled with protective herbs. Put a bit of a cotton ball and rub it on door frames and thresholds to ward your home or office (Don’t go overboard, now—we don’t want to ruin the woodwork or cause someone to slip on a oily surface.) Just a small amount will work beautifully. As with all philter and potion recipes, do not apply it directly to the skin.

• 1 small decorative glass bottle
• Base oil, approximately /8 cup
• Clean dropper
• 3 drops myrrh or cypress oil
• 3 drops patchouli oil
• 1 pansy flower (dark purple or black is best)
• 1 small morning glory leaf or tiny bit of the vine
• A small chip of black tourmaline
• 6 inches each purple and black thin satin ribbon
• 1 small metal pentagram charm or talisman that you feel coordinates with protection
• A label and a pen (to list the ingredients and to decorate and mark the bottle

Pour the base oil into the bottle; fill it three quarters of the way full. Add the essential oils one at a time. Next, add the herbs and the crystal. Close up the bottle with the lid, place your fingers over the lid, and carefully shake up the mixture. Hold up the mixture to the sunlight and allow the light of Saturday’s sun to illuminate the philter for a moment or two

Wipe off the outside of the bottle. Use the label to list the ingredients and the use of this potion. Decorate the bottle by drawing the sigil of Saturn or pentagrams. If you have other magickal symbols that you would like to use for protection, then add those to the label. Attach the label to the glass bottle, and finish up by threading the metal charm onto the ribbon and then tying the two colored ribbons around the neck of the bottle.

As you finish tying on the bow, hold the bottle in your hands and concentrate on the visualization that your aura around your entire body is glowing with a deep and sparkling purple color. Silently call on the god of karma and time, Saturn, and the triple goddess Hecate to ask for their assistance. Visualize that protection is swirling around you, your home, and your loved ones in the best possible way. Now pull all that energy from your visualization into the philter bottle that you hold in your hands. Take a deep breath, hold it for three counts, and then blow it out slowly. Now, repeat the chant below:

Hecate, I call upon you now
This philter with your magick endow
Saturn’s strong energy will circle around
With this potion, only protection is found
Witches’ herbs and crystal add their power
Begin the magick in this hour.

Set the bottle aside and ground and center yourself. Clean up the supplies, and eat a few crackers or do something physical. Make sure to store the protection philter in a dark, dry place out of the reach of yound children.

Book of Witchery
Spells, Charms & Correspondences for Every Day of the Week
Ellen Dugan

Magical Properties of Essential Oils

MAGICAL PROPERTIES OF ESSENTIAL OILS

These are in order of Magical Intent.

COURAGE: – Cedar, Musk, Rose Geranium

FERTILITY: – Musk, Vervain

FRIENDSHIPS: – Stephanotis, Sweetpea

HAPPINESS: – Apple Blossom, Sweetpea, Tuberose

HARMONY: – Basil, Gardenia, Lilac, Narcissus

HEALING: – Carnation, Eucalyptus, Gardenia, Lotus, Myrrh, Narcissus, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Violet

HEX-BREAKING:- Bergamont, Myrrh, Rose Geranium, Rosemary, Rue, Vertivert

LOVE: – Clove, Gardenia, Jasmine, Orris, Plumeria, Rose, Sweetpea

LUCK: – Cinnamon, Cypress, Lotus

LUST: – Cinnamon, Clove, Musk, Vanilla

MAGNETIC–TO ATTRACT MEN: – Ambergris, Gardenia, Ginger, Jasmine, Lavender, Musk, Neroli, Tonka

MAGNETIC–TO ATTRACT WOMEN: – Bay, Civet, Musk, Patchouli, Stephanotis, Vetivert, Violet

MEDITATION: – Acacia, Hyacinth, Jasmine, Magnolia, Myrrh, Nutmeg

MENTAL POWERS: – Honeysuckle, Lilac, Rosemary

MONEY: – Almond, Bayberry, Bergamot, Honeysuckle, Mint, Patchouli, Pine, Vervain

PEACE: – Benzoin, Cumin, Gardenia, Hyacinth, Magnolia, Rose, Tuberose

POWER: – Carnation, Rosemary, Vanilla

PROTECTION: – Cypress, Myrrh, Patchouly, Rose Geranium, Rosemary, Rue, Violet, Wisteria

PSYCHIC POWERS: – Acacia, Anise, Cassia, Heliotrope, Lemongrass, Lilac, Mimosa, Nutmeg, Sandalwood, Tuberose

PURIFICATION: – Acacia, Cinnamon, Clove, Frankincense, Jasmine, Lavender, Myrrh, Olive, Sandalwood

SLEEP: – Lavender, Narcissus

SPIRITUALITY: – Heliotrope, Lotus, Magnolia, Sandalwood

VITALITY: – Allspice, Carnation, Rosemary, Vanilla

——————————————————————————-

SOURCE: Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs – by Scott Cunningham

WOTC Extra – Banishing Oil & Short Banishing Chant

Witchy Cat Graphics & Comments
BANISHING OIL

1/2 oz olive oil
7 drops pepper oil (add cayenne pepper to olive oil if you wish)
10 drops peppermint oil – or peppermint essence from icing part of a grocers plus olive oil.
12 drops of rue or rosemary oil. You can add rue or rosemary to olive oil and put in a warm
place for 3 days and strain or buy the essential oil.
Some crushed black peppercorns
15 drops of pine oil or some pine needles stepped in olive oil for 3 days in warm place and strained or pine essential oil.
One obsidian or black onyx stone or a small black pebble.
 

Blend together in an eggcup and put In a clean brown or dark medicine bottle. Some of these oils are volatile. Do not anoint yourself with Banishing oil. You could burn yourself. Wash your hands after using. Charge the stone or stones used after adding it and focus on the person and your intent pouring in energy and emotion. As you dress the candles you make them your magical tools. Charge again as you massage away from you massaging in banishing oil from
middle to the ends of the candle.

 

_________________

Chant For Banishing Evil’s Presence or Negativity

To the Goddess, I do pray
Grant me power, strength to flay
This one’s curse
With these words, I hold thee at bay.

Your Basic Essential Oil Care Kit

Your Basic Essential Oil Care Kit

Essential oils are one of the great untapped resources of the world. The concentrated essences of various flowers, fruits, herbs, and plants have been used for centuries all over the world, but in modern times we have forgotten the power of these ancient medicines of the earth, preferring instead to use the products of perfume and chemical companies which imitate the natural fragrances and medicinal and cleansing properties of essential oils. Because the essential oils are so sweet-smelling, many people suppose their value is essentially one of charm and fragrance – but this is a mistake. Modern scientific research has proven that essential oils are potent with remarkable medicinal properties. These substances are very complex in their molecular structure and very powerful. The essential oil or oregano, for example, is twenty-six times more powerful as an antiseptic then phenol, which is the active ingredient in many commercial cleansing materials.

Unlike chemical drugs, essential oils do not remain in the body. They leave no toxins behind. And essential oils make much more sense as air fresheners than commercial products, as they cleanse the air by altering the structure of molecules creating the smells, rather then masking the unwanted smells. When we are looking for alternatives to toxic products in our homes and in our lives, essential oils are a convenient, practical and pleasant solution.

YOUR BASIC CARE KIT

Lavender – Tea Tree – Peppermint – Chamomile – Eucalyptus – Geranium – Rosemary – Thyme – Lemon – Clove

If I had to choose the ten most versatile and useful essential oils for the average home medicine cabinet, these would be the ones. Although these oils are chosen first for their medicinal properties and their ability to deal with a wide range of health complaints, you will find that they also feature strongly throughout this article and are useful for a diversity of purposes from skin care to gardening and from home care to celebrations.

The treatments outlined in this section are straightforward yet effective. Other useful additions to your care kit would be Aloe Vera – Witch Hazel – Rosewater. Aloe Vera comes from the leaf of the cactus of this name and is a fine healing agent in itself for cuts, inflammations and burns, as well as being a good carrying agent for the essential oils. It can be bought in gel or liquid form. Witch Hazel is extracted from a shrub and is known for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. Rosewater is a by-product of the distillation of the essential oil of roses and is used for its mild antiseptic and soothing properties. But let us now have a brief look at the ten essential oils that
comprise the Basic Care Kit.

Lavender

Lavender is capable of many important jobs and is a delight to use. Every home should have a bottle of lavender, if no other oil, because it is very effective in the treatment of burns and scalds. Lavender oil is a natural antibiotic, antiseptic, antidepressant, sedative and detoxifier which promotes healing and prevents scarring, and also stimulates the immune system and contributes to the healing process by stimulating the cells of a would to regenerate more quickly. Although not known specifically as a circulatory stimulant, lavender oil certainly seems allay the effects of clinical shock and as a mood tonic and antidepressant it helps to deal with the psychological shock of injury. It also has a multitude of other qualities which make it a truly indispensable oil.

Tea Tree

The antiseptic action of tea tree is thought to be one hundred times more powerful than carbolic acid – and yet it is non-poisonous to humans. The Aborigines have been using this indigenous Australian tree in their medication for centuries and today tea tree is the subject of a great deal of international research. It’s impressive antiviral, antibacterial and anti-fungal properties make it useful in a wide range of conditions. It is used in the treatment of candida and all sorts of infections, for ringworm, sunburn, acne, athlete’s foot, toothache, and pyorrhea, among other things.

Peppermint

Peppermint has been used by many ancient cultures, including the Egyptians, Chinese and American Indians, no doubt because of its extremely useful health-promoting properties. It is an excellent digestive, it helps the respiratory system and circulation, it is an anti-inflammatory, and an antiseptic. These qualities make it a good oil in the treatment of indigestion, flatulence, bad
breath, flue, catarrh, varicose veins, headaches and migraines, skin irritations, rheumatism, toothache, and fatigue. It even helps keep mice, fleas, and ants away.

Chamomile

There are several types of chamomile essential oil. Chamomile German is an excellent variety and its beautiful deep dark blue color, due to its high azulene content, comes as a bonus. Another excellent variety, Chamomile Roman, is particularly good for the treatment of nervous conditions and insomnia. Beware though of Chamomile Maroc (Ormenis multicaulis) which is not a true
Chamomile and cannot be used as such. Although Chamomile is an antibacterial, antiseptic, and disinfectant, it is most valued for its anti-inflammatory properties. These apply to internal
conditions like rheumatism, as well as to external inflammations. Chamomile is indispensable if you have children because it can be sued for teething troubles and in the bath to ease nerves and tetchiness. Chamomile is used in the treatment of burns, including sunburn, psoriasis, eczema, asthma, hay fever, diarrhea, sprains, nausea, fever and all nervous and depressive states. It’s
analgesic, diuretic, sedative and calming properties make Chamomile an extremely desirable oil. For kicking the tranquilizer habit it is invaluable, and in anorexia nervosa it is extremely helpful. As if this weren’t enough, chamomile is used in rejuvenation treatments.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus has been distilled from at least 1788 when two doctors, John White and Dennis Cossiden, distilled Eucalyptus Piperata for its use in treating chest problems and colic. This was in Australia where the Blue Mountains of New South Wales are so called because of the extraordinary blue haze that exudes from the resin of the eucalyptus gum and envelops the entire landscape. In such a powerfully aromatic environment, the medicinal qualities of this ancient tree would be hard to miss. Eucalyptus is a marvelously versatile and useful oil. It cools the body in summer an protects it in winter. Its is anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibiotic, diuretic, analgesic, and deodorizing. Research has proved its antiviral properties as well. It is best known for its effectiveness against coughs and colds but is equally effective in the treatment of cystitis, candida,
diabetes, and sunburn, while also being useful in veterinary care and as an insect repellent. There is a wide range of Eucalyptus varieties, any of which would be a useful addition to a Basic Care Kit.

Geranium

Geranium is one of my favorite oils because it works profoundly on the emotions and is useful in many medical conditions – and smells wonderful while it works so hard. The oil is extracted not from the familiar, brightly colored geranium, but from the species Pelargonium-Geranium Robert or “lemon plant” – which is very often displayed in abundance in Greek restaurants. Geranium will make chilblains disappear overnight and brings a radient glow when used in skin care. More importantly, it is a vital component in the treatment of endometriosis, if very effective for menopausal problems, diabetes, blood disorders, throat infections, and as a nerve tonic, and works well as a sedative. It is reputed to help in cases of uterine and breast cancer and if nothing else, would certainly help the patient to relax and cope with the pain. Geranium has many applications from frostbite to infertility, and its antiseptic and astringent properties contribute to its general usefulness. Its delightful floral fragrance makes it a pleasure to use, either on its own or as a
contributory oil in blends.

Rosemary

Rosemary is both a physical and mental stimulant, which makes it a good oil to have in the morning bath, while also being excellent in the treatment of all muscular conditions, making it the perfect oil for a bath after a long, tiring day. This antiseptic oil is used in the treatment of muscular sprains, arthritis, rheumatism, depression, fatigue, memory loss, migraine, headaches, coughs, flu, and diabetes among other conditions. It is also very useful in beauty treatments being used in hair care and acne and cellulite remedies. For the sportsman, cook and gardener, rosemary is invaluable.

Thyme

There are many types of thyme, some of which can be used safely in all situations and some which cannot. Thyme has notable antiviral, antibiotic, antiseptic, and diuretic properties and should be ‘used with great care’. Overuse of it can stimulate the thyroid gland and lymphatic system. Like many good things, it must be used in moderation. It should never be applied to the skin undiluted and should not be used on children unless it is within the chemotype Thyme Linalol. Thyme is a vital component of the Basic Care Kit because of its powerful antiviral properties. When flu is around it is a wonderful oil to have on the room diffuser. It assists in the elimination of toxic wastes from the body. It is used in the treatment of a wide range of conditions including whooping cough,
warts, rheumatism, neuralgia, fatigue and acne. It is also extremely useful in antiseptic powders, hair and skin care regimes, and cooking. Just to make it a perfect all-rounder, thyme will discourage all manner of parasites and insects from invading your home.

Lemon

When our adventurous seafaring ancestors sailed the high seas, fresh lemons saved them from getting scurvy. For modern stay-at-homes, the essential oil of lemon is just as useful as a water purifier. This antiseptic and antibacterial oil will perform many tasks when used in blends, including treating verrucas, insect bites, and tension headaches. It has a tonic action on the lymphatic system and a stimulating action on the digestive system. It will assist you to slim, help disperse cellulite, and keep wrinkles at bay. Its contribution to synergy makes it particularly useful in blends, while it is indispensable as a fragrancing and flavoring agent.

Clove

Clove oil is antibacterial, antiseptic, and analgesic and is a good oil for the prevention of disease and infection. Being a spice it can easily be incorporated into your cooking. It is best known as a quick cure for toothache although it is equally useful in digestive problems and muscular disorders. It can be used in the treatment of asthma, nausea, and sinusitis, and as a sedative. Clove is a
powerful oil that has been used for the sterilization of surgical instruments. It should not be used undiluted on the skin.

WARNING…

Not all natural plants or plant products are beneficial to health. Deadly nightshade can be poisonous and stinging nettles sting. The following essential oils should NOT be used under any circumstances:

Bitter almond
Boldo leaf
Calamus
Yellow Camphor
Horseradish
Jaborandi leaf
Mugwort
Mustard
Pennyroyal
Rue
Sassafras
Savin
Southernwood
Tansy
Thuja
Wintergreen
Wormseed
Wormwood

Goddess Recipes: Oils, Perfumes, Etc.

GODDESS RECIPES: OILS, PERFUMES, ETC.

MOON PRIESTESS PERFUME:

1 Drop Queen of the Night Oil
3 drops rose oil
1 drop lemon verbena oil
4 fl. oz (120cc) white spirit

Blend the three oils in a bottle. Add the white spirit, and shake all vigorously. A cologne can be made by adding another 1 FL. oz (30cc) of white spirit and 3 fl. oz (90cc) of distilled water.

MOON PRIEST COLOGNE:

1 fl. oz (30cc) lemon verbena or Lime oil
2 fl. oz (60cc) coriander oil
1/2 fl. oz. (15cc) camphor or myrrh oil
1/4 fl. oz. (7cc) white spirit
3 3/4 fl. oz. (105cc) distilled water

Blend the oils in a bottle, add the spirit and water and shake all vigorously. Increasing the myrrh oils gives a darker perfume; increasing the camphor, a lighter and more spicy one. All perfumes ‘behave’ differently on different skins, so it is worth experimenting to find your own balance.

EARTH MOTHER PERFUME:

Musk oil
Patchouli oil
Rose Oil

Blend in equal parts, bottle and shake well.

ISIS PERFUME:

Rose oil
Blue Lotus Oil

Blend equal parts, bottle and shake well.

SUN GODDESS PERFUME:

Cinnamon Oil
Lemon Verbena Oil
Ylang-Ylang Oil

Blend equal parts, bottle and shake well.

OIL FOR THE DARK OF THE MOON:

2 fl. oz.(60cc) tincture of myrrh
1 fl. oz.(30cc) oil of cinnamon
1/4 fl. oz.(7cc) Queen of the Night Oil
1 fl. oz.(30cc) oil of rose

Blend, bottle and shake well.

OIL FOR THE RITES OF ISIS:

7 drops oil of rose
2 Drops oil of Camphor
2 drops tincture of myrrh
3 drops oil of blue hyacinth

Blend the oils of rose, camphor, and blue hyacinth during the waxing moon. Bottle and keep till the Moon wanes. Add the Myrrh

KALI INCENSE:

This is an individual and personalized incense, for attunement to your own Dark of the Moon.

1 oz (30gm) sandalwood chips
1 oz (30gm) Dried jasmine flowers or 6 drops jasmine oil
1/2 oz (15gm) dried rose petals
2 drops of your own menstrual blood

Blend and use for private meditation during the onset of your menstruation.

MORRIGAN INCENSE:

1 oz. (30gm) musk amberette
1/2 oz. (15gm) dragon’s blood (resin used in violin staining)
4 drops patchouli oil
4 drops civet oil
4 drops of blood from your own finger

Blend at the dark of the Moon, put in a jar and bury in the earth for 6 weeks (a flower pot of peat in a cool cupboard will do).

ATHENA OIL & INCENSE:

The olive is sacred to Athena, so use pure olive oil as an anointing oil in particular, rub between the palms of your hands and anoint your feet, forehead
and lips. For the Incense:

1 oz. (30gm) Cedar wood chips
1/2 oz. (15gm) camphor
7 drops musk oil
Female sweat (as much as possible)
6 olives unstuffed and preferably black
Blend the first four ingredients well, at the full moon, and add the olives. Put in a jar and leave for one month to mature. Then remove the olives (Which will have imparted their essence to the rest) and throw them away. Stuffed olives, both black and green, are an obvious food for a ritual of Athena, also stuffed vine leaves, a very Athenian dish. If possible, of course, the wine should be
Greek – especially retina, though that is an acquired taste.

PRE-RITUAL BATH SCENTS:

To cleanse and relax the body before a ritual, and to energize the psychic centers. Fill small sachets of muslin cloth with equal amounts of the following herbs:

Basil (for psychic energy)
Borage (to strengthen the inner self)
Lavender (to banish mental and emotional stress)
Centaury (a traditional witch herb)
Rue (a traditional bathing herb)

Put a sachet into your bath five minutes before you get in, to give the aromatics time to work.

DIANA OF THE MOON INCENSE:

It is recommended that it be made in the hour and the day of the Moon – i.e. the first or eighth hour after sunrise, or the third or tenth hour after sunset, on a Monday.    Thoroughly mix equal amounts of the following:

Gum mastic
Jasmine
Mandrake
Orris root

Add a few drops of wintergreen oil and moisten with a little clear mineral oil

AINE of KNOCKAINE INCENSE:

1/2 oz. (15gm) Meadowsweet flowers and leaf (gathered when the plant is in full bloom and dried)
1/2 oz. (15gm) finely chopped pine needles
1/2 fl. oz. (15cc) lemon verbena oil

By the way, Meadowsweet blossom also makes a delicious

Magical Properties of Essential Oils

MAGICAL PROPERTIES OF ESSENTIAL OILS

These are in order of Magical Intent.

COURAGE: – Cedar, Musk, Rose Geranium

FERTILITY: – Musk, Vervain

FRIENDSHIPS: – Stephanotis, Sweetpea

HAPPINESS: – Apple Blossom, Sweetpea, Tuberose

HARMONY: – Basil, Gardenia, Lilac, Narcissus

HEALING: – Carnation, Eucalyptus, Gardenia, Lotus, Myrrh, Narcissus, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Violet

HEX-BREAKING:- Bergamont, Myrrh, Rose Geranium, Rosemary, Rue, Vertivert

LOVE: – Clove, Gardenia, Jasmine, Orris, Plumeria, Rose, Sweetpea

LUCK: – Cinnamon, Cypress, Lotus

LUST: – Cinnamon, Clove, Musk, Vanilla

MAGNETIC–TO ATTRACT MEN: – Ambergris, Gardenia, Ginger, Jasmine, Lavender, Musk, Neroli, Tonka

MAGNETIC–TO ATTRACT WOMEN: – Bay, Civet, Musk, Patchouli, Stephanotis, Vetivert, Violet

MEDITATION: – Acacia, Hyacinth, Jasmine, Magnolia, Myrrh, Nutmeg

MENTAL POWERS: – Honeysuckle, Lilac, Rosemary

MONEY: – Almond, Bayberry, Bergamot, Honeysuckle, Mint, Patchouli, Pine, Vervain

PEACE: – Benzoin, Cumin, Gardenia, Hyacinth, Magnolia, Rose, Tuberose

POWER: – Carnation, Rosemary, Vanilla

PROTECTION: – Cypress, Myrrh, Patchouly, Rose Geranium, Rosemary, Rue, Violet, Wisteria

PSYCHIC POWERS: – Acacia, Anise, Cassia, Heliotrope, Lemongrass, Lilac, Mimosa, Nutmeg, Sandalwood, Tuberose

PURIFICATION: – Acacia, Cinnamon, Clove, Frankincense, Jasmine, Lavender, Myrrh, Olive, Sandalwood

SLEEP: – Lavender, Narcissus

SPIRITUALITY: – Heliotrope, Lotus, Magnolia, Sandalwood

VITALITY: – Allspice, Carnation, Rosemary, Vanilla

——————————————————————————–
SOURCE: Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs – by Scott Cunningham

How To Make Essential Oils

HOW TO MAKE ESSENTIAL OILS

Witches often ask about how to make essential oils. I don’t know exactly how you produce essential oils from herbs. What I do know is that it’s a laborious process, and that most of the time you will want to dilute the essential oils anyway, so that fragrant, blended oils consisting of a carrier oil and a herb are often more versatile. In addition to that they are quite easy to manufacture. This is how I do it.

 

The Kitchen Magic School’s Fragrant Oils

This is what you need
=====================
A carrier oil. The intended use decides which one. Edible oils are sold in super-markets everywhere, and can often be used for other purposes than just eating. In herbal cosmetic shops like the Body Shop you can buy pure or blended oils for special purposes like bathing and massage. You can experiment with different oils for different purposes, but never ingest any oil that wasn’t specifically made for the purpose. It’s important that you use new oil with the best before date well ahead, as fragrant oils don’t keep as well as essential oils. Wheatgerm oil can be used as preservative if you find that your oils don’t keep well.

The herb. For this purpose it doesn’t matter if it’s fresh, dried or even frozen. Herbs are sold in many places. Occult shops often have quite an assortment, but the super-market in your area may sell some of these much cheaper. Super-markets often have herbs in either the spice department (notably fennel and cardamon), the health food department (notably rosehips and buckwheat) or even the hot drinks department (notably chamomile and cocoa). Specialized health food stores and natural cosmetics boutiques often have herbs too.

Growing your own herbs can be a very satisfying experience, and it doesn’t take a lot of skill to do with the most common ones. You can buy plants at a nursery or raise your own from seeds. Seeds are available in super-markets, garden centers and nurseries. There are often quite adequate instructions on the seed envelope. If you are new to growing things, start out with easy growers like
mint, heartsease and dill and grow them in pots.

Which herb to choose is a science in itself. If you want to use the oil for magickal purposes, you will probably want to choose it according to its correspondences. At the end of Starhawk’ _Spiral_Dance_ there is a substantial list of common correspondences, and the classic Culpeper’s Complete Herbal lists herbs and their uses and correspondences. Of course if you follow a specific
tradition you will want to consult it, so you don’t use inappropriate herbs. Many eclectic witches like to make up their own correspondences following their intuition. If you will use the oil on your skin, make sure that it won’t irritate or cause allergic reactions. You may want to consult a book on
aromatherapy if you are using fragrant oils for healing. Some oils are considered aphrodisiacs, and can be quite fun to use for massage.

A practical consideration is the availability of a given herb. Herbs may be unavailable for many different reasons. Maybe it isn’t traditionally used in your part of the world, it may be illegal for a number of reasons, it could be surrounded with superstition or it can simply be out of season.

A bottle. Fragrant oils are sensitive to light so try avoiding crystal clear bottles. You will often want to use just a spoonful of the oil, so a squirt cap is useful. Shampoo bottles can often be used, as they are generally about the right size and have caps which are made so you can easily take a small amount without having oil run down the outside of the bottle. Plastic bottles will often be found to take on some of the aroma of the contents, so you may want to throw them away after one use, or always keep the same oil in the same bottle. Some occult shops sell amber glass bottles, too. Of course it’s neat to have all your oils in identical bottles instead of having an array of brightly colored shampoo bottles, but they’re a lot more expensive than saved up shampoo bottles. Label all your bottles carefully with the name of the herb, carrier oil and date of manufacture!

This is how to do it
====================
The basic principle is easy: put the herb in the oil, and wait.

If you are bothered by herb particles in the finished product, you can use a tea egg or a small bag of muslin or nylon suspended by string in the bottle, and remove them when you find the fragrance strong enough. This requires a bottle with a wide opening. If you don’t have such a bottle, you can strain the oil in a wire-mesh tea sieve instead. If you aren’t bothered by herb particles, you can
often leave the herb in the oil until you’ve used it all up. This works particularly well with antiseptic herbs like peppermint, but can in other cases make the oil go stale.

The time it takes for an oil to become pleasantly fragrant depends on the herb and the oil, what you consider pleasant and the conditions you keep them under. You will have to experiment with concentration, stirring, and time to find out which works best under your circumstances. With some herbs crushing can speed up the process. Seeds like fennel are among those. Many herbs vary quite a lot in strength depending on a range of factors, so sometimes you will have to adapt your recipes. The best thing is probably to develop your intuition with regards to herbs. As a rule of thumb, two weeks to three months should be adequate.

Suggested uses for fragrant oils
================================
Bathing:
Many oils can change your mood when used in a bath. Try out different ones, like thyme and heartsease.

Caveat 1: Some herbs are skin irritants, and you may be allergic to some without knowing this. If your skin gets irritated during or after a bath, immediately take a shower and wash yourself all over with hypoallergenic soap. Then dry yourself and use a hypoallergenic body lotion. This should take care of most skin irritations. If it doesn’t, seek a doctor. Carefully note which herbs cause skin irritations in you, and avoid them. If you know that your skin is sensitive, avoid herbs which are known to cause skin irritations or allergic reactions in many people. Some of the more common ones are mint, vanilla and of course all hot spices like pepper.

Caveat  2: Never use psychoactive herbs in a bath, this includes sleep inducing herbs.
You can drown yourself quite easily that way.

Anointing:
Fragrant oils are much milder than essential oils, and can often be used directly for anointing on your skin. If you are using fragrant oils for magickal purposes, you may want to take into account the correspondences of the carrier oil, too.

Vaporizing:
Vaporizing means that you heat the oil so that it gives off its fragrance. This is useful in its own right, but can also serve as a substitute for incense when you or members of your household object to incense for medical or other reasons. Vaporizers can be bought in occult stores, shops for herbal cosmetics, interior decoration boutiques or even in the department store. The most common ones are a terra-cotta ring that you suspend on a lightbulb, and more elaborate structures with a house for a tea-candle and a shallow pan suspended above it. The fragrant oil has to be quite strong for this purpose.

Massage:
Massage is a fine art and healing in many ways. You may want to experiment with using edible oils for this purpose. Caveat 1: The oil used for massage enters the skin even more forcefully than the one used in a bath. Make sure you aren’t allergic beforehand. Vigorously rub in a tad of oil on a sensitive place like the inside of the arm just above your wrist. If the skin is irritated after an hour, don’t use that oil on your skin again. Caveat 2: Massage is often a part of lovemaking. If you use a condom for birth control, don’t use massage oils. The reason for this is that the oil make microscopic holes in the rubber, and renders it useless.

Cooking:
Fragrant oils of spices like oregano or basil can be used in cooking. You can use it as a marinade, or to brush on meat before you grill it. How about making your own curry oil? Caveat: Use only oils specifically made for ingestion for this purpose.

Libations:
We often use wine or water for libations, but we know that for instance the Minoans on Crete offered their deities oils as well as wine and honey.

Further suggestions
===================
You can use this method with other mediums than oil; shampoo and liquid soap for instance. Find fragrance free products, and make your own herbal cosmetics. I like to use chamomile shampoo, so I blend 100 ml of fragrance free shampoo with 1 gram of chamomile flowers from a teabag. After one week the liquid starts to turn yellow and smell of chamomile, and is ready for use. I use a hair
conditioner (again fragrance free) to make sure I rinse out all chamomile particles from my hair. The same can be done with rosemary if you have dark hair, and other herbs if you have problems with your hair or scalp. Lavender produces a soothing soap, and pine needles an invigorating one. Again, make sure you aren’t allergic to herbs used on the skin or in the hair in this way.

 

Copyright Ceci Henningsson 1994. This article may be freely copied and distributed, provided this copyright notice is included.

Making An Ointment

Making An Ointment

This method involves mixing the herb(s) with a fixative such as petroleum jelly or vegetable fat. This is done by heating the fixative until it is quite warm and adding the ground herbs to it. Once mixed up the mixture can be heated more than once and allowed to cool, Once you are satisfied that all the goody has been removed from the herb the whole mixture should be strained and put into a storage container then allowed to cool. This is the same procedure used to make salves.