Rose Hips: Herb of month
If you leave the flower on your rosebush, the petals will fall off after it finishes blooming, and a small red fruit will form – that is the rose hip.
Rose hips form on any sort of rose shrub, even a hybrid tea or floribunda, but the hips most commonly used in foods and beverages are harvested from wild roses.
Rose hips have been an important food for all Native tribes where any kind of roses can be found.
Rose hips are strung and worn as love-attracting beads.
A tea drunk before sleep induces prophetic dreams.
Rose petals and hips are also used in healing spells and mixtures, and a rose-water saturated cloth laid to the temples will relieve headache pain.
What is Mugwort?
Past Contributor: Juniper
Have you always wondered what the herb Mugwort was used for? If you have ever watched the movie Practical Magic, they give you the impression it is used to treat bruising of the skin, so that’s what I always thought it did. It sounds good, but it’s not necessarily true..
Mugwort ( Artemisia Vulgaris) is also known by several other “folk” names such as Muggons, Artemis Herb, Naughty Man, Old Uncle Henry or Felon Herb. This herb is actually of the feminine gender and is associated with the Goddesses Artemis (Goddess of the Hunt) also known as the Goddess Diana. It is from the Artemis plant. The herb Mugwort is associated with strength, psychic powers, protection and prophetic dreams and even aid in astral projection.
There are many magical uses for Mugwort. If you grow it yourself, it should be picked before sunrise. If you need endurance during long walks or runs, you can place some of the herb in your shoes to gain strength.
If you are searching for prophetic dreams, create a small sachet and fill it with Mugwort and place it under your pillow while you sleep. Placed next to your bed, it is said to also aid in astral projection. This herb can be used during divination by either burning it with sandalwood during scrying rituals or you can even drink it like a tea infusion, but I suggest you sweeten it with honey to soften the bitter taste.
You can place Mugwort around the base of your crystal ball to aid in psychic workings. According to ancient readings, if you carry Mugwort, you cannot be harmed by poison or evil from entering your body. In certain countries, they hang it over doorways to prevent evil from entering, a kind of Feng Shui.
Since Mugwort is associated with the feminine and with Diana, it is also said to aid in fertility and to increase lust. Once again, consult your physician before taking any herbal supplement as it may have adverse drug interactions with certain medications you may be taking.
References: Cunningham, Scott, “Cunninghams Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs", 2003.
Herb of the Month: Bistort
The Herb Bistort
Bistort (polygonum bistorta) is also known as Dragonwort, Easter Giant, Osterick, Passions, Patience Dock, Red Legs, Snakeweed, Sweet Dock and Knotweed.
Bistort is a feminine plant who falls under the planet Saturn. It’s element is earth and it is known for it’s psychic powers and powers of fertility.
Magically, it is said if you carry Bistort with you, it will aid in conception. See May 19th in the Spell A Day section for a spell utilizing this herb.
You can also burn Bistort with frankincense incense to increase your psychic abilities or when using divination.
It is also said that if you spread droplets of a Bistort infusion around a building in which poltergeists are said to reside, that it will drive them out.
Bistort is also a common ingredient in money attracting sachets and added to wealth and money incenses.
To grow Bistort, you must have full sun to partial shade. The soil must be rish and kept moist. This herb will ggrow to approximately two feet tall, good for borders and hedges. Bistort can be seeded or grown by propagation in the spring or autumn.
Medically, some herbalists say that Bistort may be helpful in treating diarrhea, hemorrhoids and cuts.
This herb is a common food source in much of Northern Europe. The leaves are plesant tasting and is often used in salads.
References: Cunningham, Scott; The Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, pg 57.
Hutchison, Francis, Ed.; Encyclopedia of Herb Gardening, pg 243.
Mabey, Richard; The New Age Herbaslist, pg 97.
Herb of the Month: Nettle
Herb of the Month: Nettle
Botanical Name
Urtica dioica (Common perennial Nettle; Stinging Nettle).
Urtica urens (Annual Nettle; Dog Nettle; Small Nettle)
Urtica gracilis, Urtica californica, and Urtica holosericea, which are used interchangeably with Urtica dioica.
Other Names
Stinging Nettle, Net Plant, Hidgy Pidgy, Devils Leaf
Family
Urticaceae
Parts Used
Above ground, roots and seed.
Overview and Mythology.
Urtica comes from the Latin verb urere, meaning “to burn,” because of its urticate (stinging) hairs. The species name dioica means “two houses” because the plant usually has either male or female flowers During World War II, Nettles were used as green camouflage paint. Medieval monks would flagellate themselves with Nettle for penance. This was also done by Roman soldiers to warm themselves and help them better adapt to the cold, damp, English climate.
Urtica is also a medieval term for ‘hive’. Nettle is a great companion plant, strngthening other plants in the area as does a tea of nettle Plants growing close to Nettle tend to be stronger in their volatile oils. When added to the compost pile, it hastens breakdown. When lactating animals are fed Nettles they produce more milk, and chickens produce more eggs.
Rudolph Steiner called the Nettle plant ‘Heart of the world’ because it radiated healing energy to people and the plants around it. Lelord Kordel said about Nettles ‘The sting of Nettles is but nothing compared to the pain that it heals’. The sting of Urtica urentissima is said to last a year. Fortunately, this claim is untrue.
Astrology: Scorpio influence
Nettle is ruled by Mars, Moon, Saturn
Chakra
Affects 2nd, 3rd and 4th
Ref: herbsorganic.co
Frankincense and Myrrh
Frankincense
Latin Name: Boswellia carterii
Folk Names: Olibans, Olibanum, Olibanus
Gender: Masculine, Hot
Planet: Sun
Element: Fire
Deities: Ra, Baal
Part Used: Gum
Powers: Protection, Exorcisms, Spirituality, Purifications, Consecrations
Ritual Uses: Burnt at dawn to honour the arising Sun God Ra.
It is included in some of the ritual incenses used by the Catholic Church.
Magickal Uses: When burned uplifts vibrations and energizes but also aids in
driving out ‘evil’ and negativity. It is also burned to assist in meditations
and visulizations [vision quests]. Added to sachets for luck, spiritual growth
and protection.
Myrrh
Latin Name: Commiphora Myrra
Folk Names: Gum Pyrrh, Karah, Mirra Balsom Odendron
Gender: Feminine
Planet: Moon
Element: Water
Deities: Isis, Ra, Adonis, Marion
Part Used: Resin
Powers: Protection, Exorcism, Healing, Spirituality
Ritual Uses: Myyrh was burned for Ra at Noon,
and was also fumed in the Temples of Isis.
Magickal Uses: Myrrh, in combination with Frankincense,
is burned to purify an area, lift the vibrations and create peace.
Myrrh is rarely burned by itself. Myrrh increases the power
and effectiveness of the incense to which it is added.
It is also used in sachets.
Frankincense and Myrrh are often considered two of the gifts
presented to the Baby Christos by the Wise Men of ther East.
It is not known exactly whom these traveling Wise Men were
but since they had - at that time - the rare and valuable spices
Frankincense and Myrrh they could possibly have been
Traders or Monks/Priests from the East - even possibly China.
Many ancient predictions and prophesies were purportedly
fulfilled by the Bethlehem Nativity. Not all of the predictions
and prophedies were Biblical.
References:
1) Cunningham Encyclopeadia of Magickal Herbs
Scott Cunningham
Second Edition
© 1988 Scott Cunningham & 2000 Scott Cunningham Estate
Lewellyn Publications
www.llewellyn.com
Herb Garden: Onion
By Staff Writer: Paganus Greybeard
Latin Name: Allium Cepa
Folk Names: Oingum, Onyoun, Unyoun, yn-leac
Gender: Masculine, Hot
Planet: Mars
Deity: Isis
Element: Fire
Parts Used: Bulb, Flowers
Powers: Protection, Purification, Exorcism, Healing, Money, Prophecy, Lust
Ritual Uses:
Reportedly in Ancient Egypt the onion wa worshipped and was invoked while
taking ceremonial oaths. The onion is sacred to the Moon - and is used in Lunar rituals.
Magickal Uses:
A small white onion stuck full of black-headed pins placed in a window will guard the home
and household against the intrusion of evil. The flowers are protective as well as decorative
and can be dried for protective amulets.
Grown in garden pots they also shield against evil.
Halved or quartered onions placed in the home and household will absorb evil,
negativity and disease.
Do not throw onion skins and peelings on the ground.
You are throwing away your prosperity.
Burn them in a fireplace or cookpot to attract riches.
An onion placed beneath the pillow can produce prophetic dreams.
When faced with a decision, scratch your choices and options on an onion.
One option and choice to each onion.
Place them in the dark.
The first one to sprout is the answer.
Magickal knives and swords are purified by rubbing their blades with fresh cut onions.
Healing (Magickal) Uses:
Rub the cut edge of an onion against aflicted part of body - viisualizing affliction going into
the onion. Then burn or bury the onion.
Strings of onions - much like strongs of garlic - hung over doorways guard against infections.
A large red onion tied to the bedpost protects the occupants against sickness and aids in
recovery.
References:
1) Cunningham Encyclopeadia of Magickal Herbs
Scott Cunningham
Second Edition
© 1988 Scott Cunningham & 2000 Scott Cunningham Estate
Lewellyn Publications
www.llewellyn.com
Wanna Make A Bet? Lucky Hand Root
Wanna Make A Bet? Lucky Hand Root
For those that gamble or make their way with placing bets, this is the root of choice to be carried in a Mojo Bag.
The Luck Hand Root or Hand of Power is in fact the female root of orchids. The root is usually around 1″ in size and fits well in small conjure or mojo bags. The Lucky Hand Root resembles a hand hence its name. It is also associated with Five Fingers Grass with its potency. Although it is in no way any association with Five Finger Grass. Lucky Hands are often called Five Finger Root, as it is an inexpensive substitute for Five Finger Grass. Remembering they are not one in the same and nor do they come from the same plants.
This is said to be one of the most powerful additions, to a gamblers or actually anyone that wishes more personal power, to thier Mojo Bag. Carried with them while placing bets or events of winnings this is a potent charm.
Widely used in New Orleans and proclaimed as one of the most powerful magical plants to be had. Marie Laveau was infamous for giving this root to those that wished to win at gambling and winnings. Not to be forgotten she knew the importance of placing this in bags for employment as well. Using this root for gaining and keeping a job. For those that needed luck and success the Lucky hand along with Lodestone dusted with magnetic sand was placed in their conjure bags.
Not limited to gambling alone this root has been claimed to aid against evil spirits and protecting the holder from all types of ills and bad events.
Suggestions for the use of the Lucky Hand Root
Personal Power: In order to gain personal power place the Lucky Hand Root along with John the Conqueror Root in your mojo/conjure bag.
While using Psalm 23 use the root while praying for what you need or wish to obtain.
For those future uses, place a few of the roots in Rose oil and let them soak fermenting. When a root is needed take out of the jar and place in your bag. Generally though one should use this root over their heart for certain desires. For money place one of the roots in your wallet to enable you to receive more.[1]
Easy to use, easy to get.
Other Information:
Gender: Female
Planet: Venus
Element: Water
Uses: Protection from evil, money, gambling, travel employment and luck[1]
References and materails used:
[1]Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs
Wolf’s Bane
By Staff Writer: Paganus Greybeard
POISON!
Do not touch or handle without proper protective gloves.
Do not eat.
Wolf’s Bane is a virulent poison.
Latin Names:
Aconitum Napellus, Arnica Latifolia, Arnica Montana
Folk Names:
Aconite, Cupid’s Car, Dumbledore’s Delight,
Leopard’s Bane, Moonshood, Storm Hat,
Thor’s Hat, Wolf’s Hat.
Gender:
Feminine.
Deity:
Hecate.
Element:
Water.
Powers:
Protection & Invisibility
When added to magickal protection sachets,
Wolf’s Bane offers security against vampyres and
werewolves. It is also puportedly used by werewolves
to heal themselves. The seed, when wrapped in a
lizard’s skin, allows magickal invisibility at will.
For further information:
1)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aconitum
2) http://www.drugdigest.org/DD/DVH/HerbsWho/0,3923,4075%7CWolf%2527s+Bane,00.html
3) http://www.healthtouch.com/bin/EContent_HT/altCareMedShowLfts.asp?fname=00009&title
=Wolf’s+Bane%2C+See+%7CARNICA+%7C+&cid=HTALT
4)
http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/a/aconi007.html
Cunningham Encyclopeadia of Magickal Herbs
Scott Cunningham
Second Edition
© 1988 Scott Cunningham & 2000 Scott Cunningham Estate
Lewellyn Publications
www.lewellyn.com
Bryony - Working
Bryony - Working
Place the herb - a small gourd - in a small
wooden bowl and place the bowl and gourd near
the front entrance of the residence.
Bowl and gourd should be placed on a moderately high
shelf - such as an upper level bookshelf - because
the herb is considered poisonous….
Goddess:
Greetings!
Hail & Well Met!
Hello Again - My Eternal, Infinite Cosmic Lady!
Accept this herbal offering.
>From the soil and ground of this world this
herb - this gourd - has lived and grown.
This is Your herb - Your gourd.
This is Your world.
These are Your Sons and Daughters.
Hold safe this residence and its inhabitants.
Hold safe Your Children.
Let not anything dark or negative happen here to
this residence or its inhabitants.
May Your Children who live here find safety, security
and prosperity.
May Your Children who live here live long and prosper.
So thus it was -
So thus it is -
So thus it be….
Vervain: Protection and Peace
Vervain: Protection and Peace
By: Mistress Ravenfyre
Vervain has been a herb that is widely used for many areas. Depression, spastic pains in the gastro intestinal tract and for all manner of female reproductive system problems when associated with melancholy or anxiety. An early PMS herbal treatment. One of the reasons that this herb was used for depression was due to its bitter taste. Maybe the old adage if it tastes bad it must be good for you rang true with this herbal use.
This herb in our magickal realm may be used in the following areas: Love, protection, purification, peace, money and youth.
Youth? Yes you read it correctly. This herb has been used as an everlasting herb for youth. The person who wishes this places vervainunder their bed, hang it around their necks. I guess that those that used this aren’t around today to tell if it worked or not. So goes another stay young remedy.
There are a few astounding usages for this herb. There is one way that you are able to tell if a person who is ill is going to die or not. Place a bit of vervain in your hand placing this onthe person in a place that they do not see. Wait a few moments, then ask them how they feel. If the ill person says they feel fine, they will live. IF they proclaim they do not feel well, call the mortician they are a goner. **Please note: This is an old wives tale. Do not rely on this for a true reading on an ill person.
Planting vervain in your yard or in your home is said to bring wealth to flow in your home. While the wealth is flowing your plants will thrive. So that is a two-fold usage. Good for both kinds of greenery!
Are you planning on going celebate but afraid those desires you have will just be to strong for you to control? Or better yet, have an ex that you would like to get back at? Gather vervain before sunrise, press outthe juices and drink. The old ones believed by doing this it stopped all sexual desires. Oh, I nearly forgot to tell you. It is supposed to last 7 years.
While doing rituals try wear vervain around your head to add protection from evil spirits.
Priests would use vervain to cleanse altars of Jupiter. They would use small bundles of vervain and sweep off the altar. Try this the next time you are cleaning your sacred space before a ritual. What was good for the old inthis area should be good for the young.
No matter how you use vervain,use wisely. Consult your doctor at all times before taking any herbs or meditcation.
Please use much caution while using this herb.
References: Cunningham, Scott; The encyclopedia of Magical Herbs
vitacost.com
Photo: http://wildflowers.jdcc.edu
Lilac: Evil Be Gone
Lilac: Evil Be Gone
Lilac Particulars:
Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)
Folk Names: Common Lilac
Gender: Feminine
Planet: Venus
Element: Water
Powers: Exorcism, Protection
The herb Lilac is one of the many herbs that aids in dispelling evil away from the person and property.
Planted around your home or other property it is said to keep evil away. This is why in New England they were originally planted in abundance.
For you ghost busters and vampyre slayers keep Lilac on hand when going out to bust and slay.
Ghost Busters, it is said that if you place fresh Lilac in a haunted house it will help clear it. I know not as much fun as running through the house saying all types ritualistic ramblings, but it might be helpful in your line of work.
Vampyre Slayers unite! Use Lilac to fight vampyres. Here is one method:
Place the Lilac in a red flannel bag and hang over front and back doors. You might have your clients do this before you get there for safety precautions before you do the hard core work.
There you have it. Use lilac for exorcism and protection.
REF: Cumming’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs; pg. 140
Anna Riva:The Modern herbal spellbook; pg.53
Dandelion
Written By: By Lady Celestina
It grows seemingly everywhere. It is uprooted and tossed aside
as an unwanted and useless weed. Yet Chinese healers knew
of its magkical and medicinal uses millennia ago.
It’s leaves and blossoms are easily and readily recognized.
A certain chicken hen - safe in her backyard pen - loves the
stems and blossoms as a treat.
Dandelion. It’s official classification name is Taraxacum Officinale.
Amoung its many folk names are Blowball, Cankerwort, Lion’s Tooth,
Priest’s Crown, Old Yellow Top, Puffball, Swine Snout, White & Wild
Endive. Its gender is Masculine/Hot. Its planet is Jupiter. Hecate is
its Deity. {i}.
Magick can be worked with Dandelion in several ways.
To discover the length of your life you simply blow off the seeds from the blossom.
You will live as long as the number of seeds left on the blossom.
You can also tell the hour of the day by blowing three times at the blossom.
The number of seeds left is the hour. You can even use Dandelion to send a message.
To send a message blow the blossom and visualize the message. {i}.
Unlike many of the herbs in the ‘Herbal Garden’ that carry the warning that they are not
to be taken or used internally Dandelion is a noted - and somewhat solitary - exception.
The root - after drying and roasting - can be used to make either a coffee or a tea.
This infusion may help promote psychic awareness and powers. This same brew -
when left steaming beside the bed - will call spirits.
Ref:
{i}. The dried roots in a crystalline
form - similar to freeze-dried instant coffee - can make a respectable coffee-like beverage.
It won’t cause problems with your liver or keep you awake and wired as does coffee.
Dandelion contains no caffeine. its also useful in capsule form or again as an infusion
for when you are eating meat or a meal with heavy grease. It helps with digestion.
It is also very helpful for alchoholics beginning recovery as a liver cleanser. {ii}.
The leaves are also used as a diuretic. The roots have been used for many centuries to
help cure Jaundice. The flowering blossoms are rich in lecithin, a nutrient very helpful in
treating liver ailments. Steaming the leaves and blossoms as you would do with spinach is
also suggested. {iii}.
Briony/Bryony
Written By: By Lady Celestina
Name: Bryony / Briony
Latin Name: Bryonia Alba, Bryony spp diocia
Folk Name(s): Gout Root, Ladies Seal, Mad Root,
Snake Grape, Tamus, Tetterberry, Wild Hops,
Wild Vine, Wood Vine, English Mandrake,
White Bryony
Gender: Masculine / Hot
Planet: Mars
Element: Earth / Fire
Part of Herb used: Roots
Magickal & Mystical Powers: Image, Money {Prosperity}, Protection
Magickal & Mystical Uses:
The Bryony / Briony root is often used as an alternative or substitute
for the Mandrake root. Money left near the root will increase -
as long the money is left near the root. The root is also hung in
residences and in gardens as a protection against bad weather.
Description of herb: : The herb sprouts long, rough, tender branches.
The leaves are rough and cut into a vine leaf’s five part pattern.
The leaves tend towards a green & white color. The herb has long whitish roots.
It grows on banks, or under hedges.
It flowers in July and August.
Caution & Warning:
Although the herb can be used by highly skilled, experienced and trained
healers & physicians for internal medicinal use - it is strongly NOT
advised or recommended for the common herbal user to attempt to
use this herb internally.
This herb has been classed as and is considered a poison -
internal use is not advised.
Clove
Written By Lady Celestina
Latin Names:
Caryophyllus Aromaticus
Syzgium Aromaticum
Eugenia Carophyllus
Folk Names:
Carenfil
Mykhet
Gender:
Masculine / Hot
Planet:
Jupiter / Sun
Element:
Fire
History & Background:
What we know as the ‘Clove’ is actually the seed bud from a tropical, and highly aromatic evergreen tree. The 30 to 40 foot tree - part of the myrtle tree family - grows in the Molluccan Islands, which are part of the Phillipines. Cloves are also grown and imported from the East & West Indies, Mauritius and Brazil. At the start of the rainy season the long green buds first appear. The flowers have a refreshing & quite strong scent. Each berry has only a single seed. The trees begin to bear fruit around 8 to 9 years after planting. Clove trees absorb a great deal of moisture which makes them an ideal tropical or sub-tropical crop producing tree. Fraudulent spice dealers know this as they have been known to sell the powdered stems as pure cloves. The word ‘clove’ comes from the French ‘clou’ or ‘nail’ which the tiny little bud resembles. It takes 7 to 8 thousand of the little buds to make up a pound of dried cloves. During the drying process the cloves loose 2/3rds of their weight.
Over 200 years ago during the Han Dynasty in Ancient China - 207 BCE to 220 CE - anyone who addressed the Emperor were required to chew cloves to guard against ‘bad breath’. The tiny and humble clove arrived in Europe in the 4th century C.E. Because of the high costs of growing, processing and shipping as well as storage cloves were so valuable they were at one time considered a form of currency. Cloves were also valuable to both Chineese and Indian Ayurvvedic healers. In the 19th Century American doctors ‘discovered’ the clove and its many medicinal and therapeutic properties.
Storage & Handling:
Ground and dried cloves should be sored in a cool and dry location. Heat will dissipate and liquify the essential oils and moisture will cause caking. Containers should be labeled with the date so the oldest stock will be used first. Keep all containers tightly sealed and closed after each use.
Medicinal Healing with Clove:
Clove oil is used by dentists as an anesthetic. it is also used to clean out and disinfect infected root canals. Clove oil is the primary active ingredient in Lavoris mouthwash as well as Benzodent and Numzident topical dental ointments. Clove is also good for digestive troubles. The reason clove oil is medicinally effective is because it is 60 to 90 percent eugenol.
Magickal Healing with Clove:
From Scott Cunningham’s ‘Encyclopedia of Magickal Herbs’ it is learned that - One of the more basic and primal uses of clove in magick is when it is worn around the neck to stop gossip and to drive off negative and hostile elementals and forces. A more specific magical use has cloves burned as an incense. Burning cloves attract riches, drive off dark, negative and hostile elementals and elements and other forces of the Dark. Used as an incense cloves produce positive spiritual vibrations and purify. Worn or carried cloves can attract the opposite sex and aid in the recovery of the bereaved. A necklace of cloves - made with red thread and a needle - can be used as a protective garland for infants or anyone else who might need it. Be sure to hang the garland out of reach of young or not-so-young grabbing and grasping hands!
“Working” with Clove:
Light a candle.
Pass the needle through the flame of the candle.
Hold the red thread before the candle.
Hold the cloves before the candle.
Thread the needle with the tread
and string the cloves on the thread.
“Goodess - Bless these cloves in Your Service.
“From the ground came these cloves.”
“From Your earth came these herbs.”
“Goddess - May these cloves guard and protect ____________________ .”
“So this is - So this be….”
Hang the cloves oout-of-reach of an infant or over a doorway in a household.
1) Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magickal Herbs.
2nd edition - 12th printing.
ISBN: 0-87542-122-9
© 1985 & © 2002 by the Scott Cunningham estate
2) Magical Herbalism
3rd Edition - 3rd printing
ISBN: 0-87542-120-2
© 1982 & 1983 by Scott Cunningham
© 2002 by the Scott Cunningham estate
Damiana: Lust & Visions
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
Love life getting a little stale? No zip, zap, zoom? Want something to put some zing back into your lovers zang?
In Mexico, the herb Damiana has been used as a sexual stimulant for centuries. While this is used as a tonic, one should consult their doctor for any side effects that could be harmful to their health, such as alergic reations.
The recipe for this herb to put that zing in the zang is as folows:
Taking the herb and grinding it to a fine mixture to be added to about a cup or so of water.
Over slow heat bring this to a boil. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
As you are simmering (in more ways than one) use the following chant using all the energy that you are able to produce. Sending this into your brew:
Warm leaves, boiling heart,
Let us never be apart
Visualize your lover and you in a most compromising position of passion. The steamier the bettr. The more energy you place in your brew the better!
Add a few drops into your lovers food. Try this over a period of a week to see if there is any enhancement in your private life.
Refridgerate any remaining brew. Shake the container daily. Store for only 7 days.
Damiana may also be used in burning for visions. Placing a small amount onto a charcoal disc. While the smoke is rising inhale deeply. It is said that this is a hallucinatory drug.
Please use much caution while using this herb.
References: Cunningham, Scott; The encyclopedia of Magical Herbs
Ann Riva: The Modern herbal spellbook
Garlic: Protection & Prosperity
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
Garlic reminds one of an old movie, out of the dark shadows enters the Vampyre. The hero of the movie, defending the already bitten damsel, holds up a string of garlic. The Vampyre, shrinks away scared of the cloves he sees. The hero has again rid the world (or the movie) of the deadly force of evil. Of course, we all know this does not work on vampyres so do not waste your time trying .
Garlic has in fact been used for many centuries for healing, protection, cleansing and drawing luck. The most common usage of course is spaghetti sauce, sorry about that, I meant to say protection.
Sailors used the herb garlic while traveling on the seas. The belief was carrying the garlic would help against ship wrecks. Did it work? Check your history books, but I doubt if in the inventory of the sunken wreckage they will have garlic listed under the inventory they have found.
Sailors were not the only military personnel to use garlic for protection. Soldiers in the middle ages wore garlic as a defense in the middle ages. Roman soldiers also used garlic but they would eat it in order to give them courage before going into battle.
A few other suggestions in the use of garlic:
When moving into a new home place a sprig of garlic in the home (Kitchen or front doorway) in order to repel negative energies.
Rubbing garlic on the insides of pots and pans is another way to repel negative energies. Do this before cooking to remove and it is said that by doing so you will remove the energies that may contaminate the food. Using this method in the kitchen gives you a good excuse when a dish is not pleasing to your company or family. Just tell them it was not your fault, but the negative energies that was attracted to the food.
Have a business and want to increase sales? Take a whole clove of garlic and stick nine straight pins in at various angels. Placing a brass tack on the side and a steel nail on the other side . Tie a white cord around the nail and then winding the cord around each pin, one after the other, ending with the brass tack. It will look like a wheel of sorts when you have finished this procedure. After which soak the garlic in King Solomon oil overnight before hanging in your business window. Moisten the garlic weekly with the oil to keep the effectiveness.
Lust and sexual power is important to a lot of people. Eating garlic actually is a lust inducer. Carry breath mints, you will need them.
Garlic is commonly used to protect one against the evil eye and evil spirits. The next time you feel that there is an evil spirit around, take a bite into the garlic that I am sure that you will have in your purse or pocket after this article. Taking a bite will send those meanies away from you in a hurry. Why? Spirits do not like scents that are pungent.
Sprinkling garlic powder on the floors is also a good means in keeping evil spirits away.
Garlic is a good herb to carry in your mojo bag, pockets or any other place to dispel negative energies and to bring good luck your way. Warning: Do not place or rub garlic on your lodestones. This will remove the magnetic draw and power from them.
References: Cunningham, Scott; The encyclopedia of Magical Herbs
Ann Riva: The Modern herbal spellbook
Witch Hazel
Written By Juniper (specialized writer in this section)
Witch Hazel (hamamelis virginiea) is also known as Snapping Hazelnut, Spotted Alder and Winterbloom. This herb is a masculine plant who falls under the Sun. It’s element is Fire. Witch Hazel is known magickally for it’s powers of protection and of chastity.
Witch Hazel gets it’s name from it’s common magickal use of it’s branches being made into divination rods. The bark and twig parts can be used for protection against evil. If carried, witch hazel is said to mend the broken heart and cool the passions.
Witch Hazel is a very common old American Indian rememdy used to treat varicose veins, bruises and as a compress to control bleeding. They also felt it promoted the healing of wounds.
It’s historical uses are probably due to the fact that witch hazel has astringent properties. The Witch Hazel you buy over the counter is distilled witch hazel water. Some herbalists use witch hazel to reduce eye inflammation. It is a common ingredient in eye drops, skin toners and creams.
Witch hazel can be grown in full sun to partial shade. The tree will usually grow 8-15 feet in height and is distinguishable by its scented yellow autumn flowers. This tree is very hardy to frost but must be grown in moist, humus-rich garden soil. To start, plant seeds outside in early autumn and keep the seeds moist.
AS always, consult your physian or pharmacist before taking any herbal medications.
References: Cunningham, Scott; The encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, pp 259-260.
Hutchison, Francis, Ed.; Encyclopedia of Herb Gardening, pg 219.
Mabey, Richard; The New Age Herbalist, pp 63, 142.
The Herb Bistort
Writtern By Juniper (specialized writer for this section)
Bistort (polygonum bistorta) is also known as Dragonwort, Easter Giant, Osterick, Passions, Patience Dock, Red Legs, Snakeweed, Sweet Dock and Knotweed.
Bistort is a feminine plant who falls under the planet Saturn. It’s element is earth and it is known for it’s psychic powers and powers of fertility.
Magically, it is said if you carry Bistort with you, it will aid in conception. See May 19th in the Spell A Day section for a spell utilizing this herb.
You can also burn Bistort with frankincense incense to increase your psychic abilities or when using divination.
It is also said that if you spread droplets of a Bistort infusion around a building in which poltergeists are said to reside, that it will drive them out.
Bistort is also a common ingredient in money attracting sachets and added to wealth and money incenses.
To grow Bistort, you must have full sun to partial shade. The soil must be rish and kept moist. This herb will ggrow to approximately two feet tall, good for borders and hedges. Bistort can be seeded or grown by propagation in the spring or autumn.
Medically, some herbalists say that Bistort may be helpful in treating diarrhea, hemorrhoids and cuts.
This herb is a common food source in much of Northern Europe. The leaves are plesant tasting and is often used in salads.
References: Cunningham, Scott; The Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, pg 57.
Hutchison, Francis, Ed.; Encyclopedia of Herb Gardening, pg 243.
Mabey, Richard; The New Age Herbaslist, pg 97.
The Dirt on Dirt
Written By Juniper (Sepcialized writer for this section
Spring is one of the best times to think about fertilizer. But when you get to the fertilizer isle in the store are you confused?
The typing on the bottles are small and the ingredients are sometimes unpronouncable let alone understandable. Where do you start? The first thing when comparing fertilizers is to known what the initials N-P-K stand for. This ratio compares the percentage of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Most complete fertilizers will contain all three elements.
Plants need 6 main elements to grow. These three, nitrogen,phoshorus and potassium, all come from the soil and must be restored periodically. The other three elements, carbon, hydrogen and oxygen occur naturally in the air and water.
Nitrogen is necessary as it promotes the growth of leaves and stems. The Phosphorus helps in early root and bud growth. Potassium is necessary for overall vigor of the plant.
Fertilizing involves more than just laying down a layer of ferilizer. You must first make sure your plants are in the right Ph soil, the right temperature and the right amount of water and light. You also want to make sure the soil around the plant is loose and crumbly to allow in moisture and air. A Ph of around 6.5 is best for most perennials. You can buy a Ph kit at most garden stores. Most plants will come with a tag that tells you in what climate the plant will grow best in. If not, you can always check your local library for a book on horticulture or check the web.
Reference: Texas Monthly; April 2005, pg 26.
Herb-The Blackberry
Written By Juniper (Specialized writer for this section)
The Blackberry is considered an herb as well as a delightful fruit. The Blackberry (Rubus villosus) is also known as Bly, Bramble, Cloudberry, Dewberry and Thimbleberry.
The Blackberry is a feminine plant whose element is water and falls under the planet Venus. The diety associated with the blackberry is Brigit. It’s magical powers are associated with healing, money and protection.
In historical Europe, the blackberry was once considered to be sacred and was used in the worship of Pagan dieties, especially Brigit. Even today, blackberry pies are often baked on Lughnasadh (August 2) by some Wiccans to celebrate the upcoming harvest.
Magically: A blackberry bush that form a natural arch is considered beneficial in magickal healing. It is said that if you crawl through the arch on a warm sunny day backwards and then forwards three times going as nearly east to west as you can, that this will heal ailments from rheumatism to whooping cough to blackheads. Of course, watch the prickly brambles!!
You may also see blackberry as a common ingredient in wealth and protection spells.
One common spell to heal scalds is: Dip none blackberry leaves in spring water then lay then against the burn while chanting three times to each leaf (yes, that’s 27 times):
“Three ladies came from the east,
One with fire and two with frost.
Out with fire, in with frost.”
This spell is actually an ancient invocation to the Celtic Goddess Brigit, known for her poetry, healing and smithcraft.
Growing and Harvesting: Most blackberries grow well in full sun in an area without high winds. You can grow bushes from seeds planted in the spring, however, blackberries are known to be high in viruses, it is receommended you buy only certified disease free plants from quality nurseries. Usually, the blackberry plant will not flower the first season. Pruning each year will increase your chance for a fruitful season.
Harvest the leaves just prior to the plants flowering. The leaves can be used for herbal teas. The blackberry fruit can be eaten fresh or made into syrups, cordials or wine.
There are no real medical uses for the blackberry, however, some state it is good for the digestive tract. It’s culinary uses are endless.
References: Cunningham, Scott; Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, pg 58-59. Hutchison, Francis, Ed.; Encyclopedia of Herb Gardening, pp. 249.
The Herb-Burdock
Written By Juniper (Specialized Writer for this section)
Burdock (Arctium lappa) is also known by the folk names Bardona, Beggar’s Buttons, Burrseed. Cockleburr, Hardock and Personate. It is a feminine plant who falls under the element of Water. Burdock also falls under the planet Venus and is known for it’s powers of protection and healing.
Magickally: Burdock is a common ingredient in protective incenses and spells. It is also cast around homes for protection.
Medically: Western and Chinese Herbalists have stated that Burdock is “capable of favorably altering unhealthy conditions of the body". It has been said that it’s actions are anit-bacterial, duiretic, anti-pyretic, a detoxifier and a mild laxative. Historically, it has been used to treat chronic skin conditions, such as eczema, and rheumatic ailments. However, often due to poor quality control, serious side effects can occur with this herb such as blurred vision, increased pulse, abnormal behavior and skin irritations can occur. As always, be sure to consult your physician or pharmacist before taking any herbal supplement.
Dosage: Dried root: 2-6 g three times a day
Liquid extract (1:1 in 24% alcohol) 2-6ml three times a day
Growing and harvesting: Burdock is native to Asia and Europe but has found it’s way to North America. It should be grown in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. This bienniel is short lived and has large, wooly leaves with purplish red thistle-like flowers and a long edible root. The seeds of the Burdock are said to lower blood sugar levels.
Seeds should be sewn shallow in early spring or autumn. It can be grown indoors or outdoors. Transplantation is difficult but it thrives easily as it self-seeds. Flowers mature to seed heads that can then be harvested. Harvesting is done at the end of the season and involves digging up the roots, scrubbing them and then slice open to dry on paper in the sun. Store dried roots in airtight containers. Store the seeds in the same manner.
The stalks can then be cooked like celery and the roots eaten raw in salads.
References: Boon, Heather and Smith, Michael; 50 Most Common Medicinal Herbs, pg. 44-46. Cunningham, Scott; Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, pp. 68. Hutchison, Frances, Ed.; Encyclopedia of Herb Gardening, pg 185.
The Herb Gardenia
Written By Juniper (Specialized Writer in this section)
Not only is Gardenia one of the most sweetest smelling flowers, it is also a common healing spell ingredient.
Gardenia (Gardenia Jasminoides) is a feminine plant who falls under the planet Moon. It its element is water and it is known for its powers of love, peace, healing and spirituality.
Magical Uses:
Fresh blossoms are often placed in sickrooms or on healing altars. The dried petals can be added to healing incenses and mixtures.
You can also scatter dried Gardenia petals around a room to achieve peace. Gardenias are frequently used in love spells and to attract good spirits during rituals. There is a handfasting oil that contains Gardenia that is given to the Witch couple on the eve of their handfasting for peace and harmony.
Medical Uses:
There are few medical uses for Gardenia today. However, certain cultures have been known to use Gardenia for jaundice, hemorrhage, hepatitis, toothaches, wounds, sprains and skin conditions.
Growing Guidelines:
Gardenia plants like humid conditions and should be planted in full son to partial shade. The soil must be kept moist.
The best time to plant a Gardenia is during Spring and Summer.
References: Cunningham, Scott; Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, pg 122.
Cunningham, Scott; Magical Herbalism, pg 105.
Hutchison, Frances, Ed.; Encyclopedia of Herb Gardening, pg 216.
The Herb Dill
Written By Juniper (Specialized Writer for this section)
Dill (Anexhum graveolens) is also known as Aneton, Dill Weed, Dilly, Chebbit, Sowa, Keper, Hulwa and even Buzzalchippet.
Dill is a masculine plant who falls under the planet Mercury. It’s element is Fire and it’s known for its powers for protection, money, lust and love.
Magical Uses:
For protection, carry Dill in a sachet or hang it at your door. If you hang it over your door, no one evil or envious of you can enter your home.
Place it in a cradle to protect an infant.
Due to the number of seeds a Dill plant produces, it is often used in money spells. Dill is said to stimulate lust if eaten or smelled (which is why Dill pickles are so popular). Dill is also a common ingredient in Love sachets.
Medical Uses:
It is said that smelling Dill can cure hiccoughs. Dill is not only used in cooking for it’s flavor, it is said to improve appetite and digestion.
Growing and Preparation:
Dill can be sown in your outdoor garden as soon as the last frost is over. Dill grows best in sunny, sheltered areas. Sow the seeds shallow and about 10 inches apart. Growing your own gives you the opportunity to have fresh leaves whenever you desire. Fresh leaves can be kept in the refrigerator for one week.
Dill is also an excellent plant to grow on balconies and in courtyards.
To dry Dill, gently tie together the stem ends and carefully place the seed head into a paper bag. Tie the open end around the stem ends. This way no seeds will be lost during the drying process. You may then dry these bags in direct sunlight. When dry, shake or roll the heads between your fingers to remove the seeds.
As always, check with your physician or pharmacist before taking any herbal supplements.
References: Cummingham, Scott; encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, pp 102-103.
Cunningham, Scott; Magical Herbalism, pg 36, 157.
Hutchison, Frances, Ed.; Encyclopedia of Herb Gardening, pg 40, 43, 182.
Mabey, Richard; The New Age Herbalist, pg 117.
The Herb Copal
Written By Juniper (Specialized Writer for this section)
A reader has requested information on Black Copal Tears.
Copal (Bursera odorata, B. fugaroides) is a masculine herb who falls under the Sun. It’s element is obviously Fire. It is known only in magickal circles. It is known for its powers in love and purification.
Copal is most well known in Mexico for love and purification incenses. A piece of Copal can also be used to represent the heart in poppets. It can be burned to promote spirituality. Copal is a white, pale yellow or yellowish orange gum resin. When smoldered on charcoal, it produces a rich, delicious fragrance. It is native to Mexico and Central America but can be considered equivalent to North America’s frankincense. This herb can be traced back to use by the ancient Mayans.
Although there are over 300 different kinds of copals all over the world, there are only a few that are available in the United States. Each different kind of Copal has a unique scent. Aztec, or Black Copal has a distinct pine scent. Manilla Copal is light and sweet. Mayan and Golden Copals are also available today.
If you need Copal, and none is available, you can substitute Dragon’s Blood or pine resin instead.
There are no medicinal uses for Copal.
See Copal Love Spell Feb. 6
References: Cunningham, Scott; Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, pp 90-91.
Cunningham, Scott; The Complete Book of Incense, Oils and Brews, pp. 30, 210.
The Herb Tarragon
Written By Juniper (Specialized Writer for this section)
In addition to it’s appetizing taste, often compared to the taste of licorice Tarragon is also known for many wonderful properties.
Tarragon is also known by the Folk Name Little Dragon. It is known for it’s protective properties and is often found is the making of protection sachets and spells.
Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus) can be used in sauces, dressings, green salads, in vinegar and a wonderful culinary herb frequently used by the French in many chicken dishes.
To grow Tarragon, you must grow it from basal cuttings of another Tarragon plant. The only Tarragon that can be grown from seed is the Russian Tarragon. Otherwise, it must be grown from basal cuttings of another Tarragon plant.
Magickally, Tarragon is used to access a woman’s primal psychic powers. To use, make an infusion of Tarragon and Mugwort and pour boiling water over this, then add to your bath waters to aid in psychic abilities.
Medically, Tarragon was formerly used in the treatment of toothaches.
This herb was presented as a request by one of our readers.
Ref: Burnie, Geoffrey; The Little Guides: Herbs, pg. 249. Cunningham, Scott; Magical Herbalism, pg 51, 233. Illes Judika; The Element Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells, pg. 945. Mabey, Richard; The New Age Herbalist, pg.44
With This Spoon I Stir - Dandelion
Written By Staff Writer: Paganus Greybeard
It grows seemingly everywhere. It is uprooted and tossed aside
as an unwanted and useless weed. Yet Chinese healers knew
of its magkical and medicinal uses millennia ago.
It’s leaves and blossoms are easily and readily recognized.
A certain chicken hen - safe in her backyard pen - loves the
stems and blossoms as a treat.
Dandelion. It’s official classification name is Taraxacum Officinale.
Amoung its many folk names are Blowball, Cankerwort, Lion’s Tooth,
Priest’s Crown, Old Yellow Top, Puffball, Swine Snout, White & Wild
Endive. Its gender is Masculine/Hot. Its planet is Jupiter. Hecate is
its Deity. {i}.
Magick can be worked with Dandelion in several ways.
To discover the length of your life you simply blow off the seeds from the blossom.
You will live as long as the number of seeds left on the blossom.
You can also tell the hour of the day by blowing three times at the blossom.
The number of seeds left is the hour. You can even use Dandelion to send a message.
To send a message blow the blossom and visualize the message. {i}.
Unlike many of the herbs in the ‘Herbal Garden’ that carry the warning that they are not
to be taken or used internally Dandelion is a noted - and somewhat solitary - exception.
The root - after drying and roasting - can be used to make either a coffee or a tea.
This infusion may help promote psychic awareness and powers. This same brew -
when left steaming beside the bed - will call spirits. {i}. The dried roots in a crystalline
form - similar to freeze-dried instant coffee - can make a respectable coffee-like beverage.
It won’t cause problems with your liver or keep you awake and wired as does coffee.
Dandelion contains no caffeine. its also useful in capsule form or again as an infusion
for when you are eating meat or a meal with heavy grease. It helps with digestion.
It is also very helpful for alchoholics beginning recovery as a liver cleanser. {ii}.
The leaves are also used as a diuretic. The roots have been used for many centuries to
help cure Jaundice. The flowering blossoms are rich in lecithin, a nutrient very helpful in
treating liver ailments. Steaming the leaves and blossoms as you would do with spinach is
also suggested. {iii}.
With This Spoon I Stir
Hello and Welcome.
I’m Lady Celestina.
What you dearies see beside me is my Cauldron.
It’s big, black and bubbling…..
As you can clearly see I’m holding a large wooden spoon.
I prefer wooden spoons. They just work better.
Let’s see what is happening with the Cauldron…..
With a few quick stirs to the left and right
we can see that the Cauldron is bubbling quite nicely.
We are very close to boiling. We do not want the water
to boil. So we turn down the heat. Yes. We are
cooking on a stove top. Modern Stove tops are so
wonderful and convenient. Cooking on a modern electric
or gas stove is so much easier than piling up the twigs
and branches and lighting off the pyre. You can control
the heat and it is not a point of conversation with the
nosey neighbors!
Now that we have turned down the heat we can add the oatmeal.
Yes. Oatmeal. We witches cannot endure and survive on just
potions, brews, veggies and herbs you know. Especially here in
Alaska. Everybody does remember the group “Three Dog Night"?
That’s how the Innuit - Please do not call them Eskimo - know how cold
it is. It’s either a one, two or three dog night. Here sleeping with
the dogs means you stay warm at night. Your familiars like it too!
The water is bubbling much less now. We now slowly stir in the oatmeal.
Slow and steady stirring gets it done. We don’t want lumpy oatmeal -
now do we?
We can now turn down the heat completely and the let the oatmeal simmer
using the residual heal from the stove.
We can now check on the coffee - or tea. The water there is now boiling
so we can turn it down now also. We don’t want to make either coffee or
tea with boiling water. We wait just a short moment- so when we pour it
the
water is not splashing and splurting everywhere. We pour the water into
the
tea pot or Fresh Press for the coffee. We set out the bowls for the
oatmeal.
I prefer these large, oversized mugs. These are good because you can
hold them and get warmed.
The oatmeal is done and we can serve it up into the mugs now.
I like raisins and some cinnamon and brown-sugar. You can season
to your own tastes.
There you go.
Fresh oatmeal from the Cauldron.
Hot coffee and Tea.
And you thought we witches only served up potions!
Tootles!
Lady C.
Written By Staff Writer: Lady Celestina