Herbal Magick

Centuries ago, our ancestors used herbs for more than just seasoning soup. As a matter of fact, herbs were used for healing and Magick long before they were used as seasonings. But the Witches and the Wise Ones all knew the Magickal use of herbs. They used herbs in potions, incenses and amulets to ward off evil, attract prosperity, protect children and women in labor, and to heal illnesses.

When herbs were added to foods, they were primarily included for their Magickal or medicinal properties, rather than for their flavor. Much of this lore was forgotten, but fortunately for our generation, not all of it has been lost, and much that had been lost has now been either relearned through experimentation or rediscovered through research of ancient books. This is an exciting time to be alive, because the Internet has given people even in remote areas access to books that once would be found only in a few libraries, out of reach of the average Witch.

Because of today’s awareness of Earth’s fragility, we modern Witches, Pagans and Wise Ones are once again focusing on the gifts that the Mother has given us.

Just what is Magick? Most of us are familiar with contemporary styles of prestidigitation, sleight-of-hand, illusion, and stage-magic, performed by such greats as Siegfried and Roy, (our personal favorites.) These performers are wonderfully entertaining, and a true delight to the mind and the eye.

Real Magick, on the other hand, is much more than illusory stage tricks. Magick influences the environment by using the natural energy that surrounds us, focused by the disciplined will of the Mage or Witch. Just as our minds, bodies and spirits work together and influence each other, the physical plane and the psychic or astral planes are linked. The astral can influence the physical as easily as the physical can the astral. They all come together in beauty, within the Laws of Nature.

There are many earth-oriented, goddess-oriented and pagan religions that practice Magick, however, Magick in and of itself is not necessarily a religious practice. Some traditions believe that Magick should always be a religious rite and there are others that use Magick as a tool for everyday living, with no religious implications at all. We have no desire to get into a debate on the merits of these two approaches.

Unlike some others, we at Wolf Moon Coven do not believe that we have the only true path to “higher truth.” However, our tradition holds that Magick should only be worked for good. We believe in the Three-Fold Law that says that whatever we send out, will come back three times over. So if we work Magick for good, good will come back to you three times over! But if our work harms another, then Goddess help us!

And, since not all of us are perfect, to say the least, some of us have had occasion to see this in action, though it is much better to learn from observing the payback to another than to experience it in person!

For example, I know of a High Priestess who became angry with another over a purely business matter, having nothing to do with the Craft. She acted irresponsibly, making numerous false accusations against the other. But none of this triggered the Three-Fold Law.

It was not until she, and several members of her coven, tried to attack the other High Priestess with Magick that the Law kicked in. And trust me when I tell you that the Goddess was swift and terrible to watch as they were taught a lesson in justice, honor and keeping their oaths.

But our purpose here is not to preach, but simply to provide information. We want to discuss the properties and uses of herbs in Amulets, Ceremonies, Charms, Potions and Rituals.

Supplies Needed for Herbal Magick

Please Note ~ True Magick comes from the inherent properties of the herbs, combined with the intent of the Mage or Witch. If, for example, one is tired and lacking in energy, no matter how talented the Witch, Chamomile and Valerian are poor choices for herbal Magick to enhance alertness and wakefulness.

The traditional choices of ritual tools for herbal Magick would include:

Boline ~ The Witch’s “White Handled Knife.” This should be a ritually consecrated knife, used only for the practice of Magick. It can be used to harvest the herbs, to chop herbs which you would not want to grind, or for a variety of other Magickal purposes.

Mortar and Pestle ~ Used to grind herbs. The bowl-shaped mortar represents feminine energy, just as the phallic-shaped pestle represents masculine energy. Using the two together imparts a balance of energies, and the energy of the Witch in grinding by hand adds much Magickal energy to the herbs being ground. It goes without saying that the Witch should be concentrating and focusing his or her intent throughout the grinding process. Grinding the herbs while sitting on the couch watching TV just doesn’t add a thing.

Hand Scythe (Sickle) ~ For the purist, this crescent-bladed knife is considered the perfect tool for harvesting herbs. The ancient Druids used Gold Sickles to harvest the holiest and most Magickal herb of their tradition, the Mistletoe.

It might also be nice to keep on hand a special basket to hold herbs while drying them, and a special glass or glazed ceramic container to hold your brews.

Can one practice herbal Magick (or other kinds) without special tools? Of course we can.

The whole purpose of using special tools is similar to the purpose for wearing ritual robes and special jewelry for celebration of Magickal rites. From the moment one begins to prepare to perform Magick, every step brings one closer to the proper state of mind.

We have used plain, ordinary kitchen knives for cutting, slicing and chopping. We’ve used pottery or wooden bowls and the backs of spoons for grinding. We have even used blenders and food processors.

But there is no question that using special implements, blessed and consecrated, enhances the effectiveness of the work. And it must be remembered, that once a tool is consecrated for any Magickal purpose, it should never be used for anything else!

Harvesting Herbs

If at all possible, you should grow and harvest your own herbs. But realistically, this is simply impossible for many of us. For example, our Coven is located in the Fort Lauderdale, Florida area, where it is possible to harvest a number of wild herbs, and to grow many others.

However, there are many herbs which grow only in dry climates, or which require a cold, dormant period.

Spanish Moss and Bay leaves, for example, can be harvested in the wild here. Mistletoe cannot. Many of us live in large cities and sprawling urban areas where there is more asphalt than topsoil.

The saving factor is that today’s Witch has access to dried herbs from anywhere in the world. Just be sure that the herbs are either wild-harvested or organic. The last thing you would want is to brew up a wonderful healing potion using herbs that have been laced with pesticides or chemical fertilizers.

Herbs For Protection

The herbs that are most normally used for protection are those that have powers to disperse evil and create a protective barrier when burned, carried on your person, or hung wherever protection is needed. Because these herbs contain positive energy they are able to repel, or bounce back negative vibrations or energy.

Protection spells should be done during a waxing moon, suggested colors are red and white. The following herbs are generally considered protective in nature (this is certainly not a complete list!):

Angelica, Balm of Gilead, Basil, Betony, Dill, Elder berries, Fennel, Garlic (of course), Horehound, Hyssop, Mistletoe, Mugwort, Mullein, Rose Geranium, Rosemary, Rue, St John’s Wort, Tarragon and Vervain.

One of the simplest protective spells is to make a charm using three of the above herbs, mix them together and place them in the center of a red or white piece of cloth. (One made of Elderberries, Rosemary and Tarragon has a really delightful fragrance if it is to be used indoors.) Gather up the corners, tie and charge the sachet saying words like:
“By Water, Earth, Fire and Air,
Protect that for which I care!”

Repeat the chant three times, with greater strength and authority each time. Carry the charm with you. To protect the home, place it in the highest point of the house or near the hearth (the kitchen if you don’t have a fireplace). To protect you and your car while driving, place the charm under the driver’s seat.

Herbs For Purification

Ever felt a sensation that something just wasn’t right? Your house didn’t seem like home anymore, a visitor left and didn’t take their bad energy with them? Maybe purification is in order. There are many herbs with purifying properties: Bay, Mugwort, Yarrow, Rosemary, Sage, Angelica, Basil, and Juniper to name a few.

Powder the herbs you wish to use (use 3, 7 or 9 different herbs, or multiples of these) and make a purification incense. As you charge the herbal mix, visualize a crisp, clean breeze blowing all the negativity out of the house. Then light the incense and carrying it through every room in the house. As you go from room to room, visualize the incense driving away any leftover negativity. This should be done with all the windows open and pets and other people out of the house.

It is good to purify a new home, before you move in, just to make sure the previous tenant didn’t leave any nastiness behind. A favorite is to brew up some rosemary tea (nice and strong) and dip a branch of rosemary, rue or yarrow into the tea and thoroughly asperge (sprinkle) every room in the house. While doing this visualize washing away of all negative influences. The rosemary is a wonderful odor-chaser as well; it leaves a clean, fresh smelling house to return to.

Many people like to purify by smudging. Sage is a very commonly used smudge. If you can gather and dry your own wild sage for smudging, do so. Just light a sprig of dried sage (You can carry a little tray or saucer under the lit sprig, in case some burning bit drops) and carry it from room to room, visualizing any negativity being replaced by the purifying fragrance of the sage. One can also make a protective sigil at each window and doorway, thus purifying and protecting in one fell swoop!

Follow up your purification with a new protective charm, and you should be good to go for several months. Many witches and pagans do a purification and protection sequence every full moon, others every quarter and some only when needed.

Charm Bags

Making charms for a variety of purposes is both easy and effective. And what’s more, it is even fun! Here are a few simple but powerful charms: (Note: All chants are to be said three times, and after the third, conclude with “So Mote it Be!”)

Prosperity

For a prosperity charm, for example, take a small bag of green cloth, place three bay leaves and a small piece of lodestone inside, then anoint the outside of the bag with a drop of sweet almond oil. As you anoint the bag, say:
“Fortune smile on me this day,
May all I need come my way.”

Do this after the New Moon, and carry the bag on your person every day until the Full Moon, then bury the bag on your own property. (If this is not possible, then in a park or even in a planter.)

Romance

To attract a romantic lover, begin with a small bag of pink or white cloth. Add a piece of rose quartz and fill the remainder of the bag with lavender and pine needles. Anoint the bag with sweet patchouli oil. As you anoint the bag, say:
“By Air, Earth, Fire and Sea,
Bring my one true love to me.”

Do this while the moon is waxing, but do not try it between the Full Moon and the New Moon. Sleep with the bag under your pillow until you get results.

Passion

If you are more interested in a passionate lover than a romantic one, follow the above formula, but add a stick of cinnamon and two whole nutmegs to the bag, along with the lavender, and anoint the bag with cinnamon oil. As you anoint the bag, say:
“Blazing passion, my desire,
Come and set my heart on fire.”

But be careful what you wish for. You just might get it! Remaining steps are the same as Romance, above.

Protection

To protect oneself from negative energy, take a small white bag; place a small piece of smoky quartz and one of clear quartz inside. Take five leaves of oleander and add them to the bag, being extremely careful not to get any sap on you. If you do come in contact with the sap, remember that it is highly toxic, so wash up immediately and thoroughly. Handling the leaves with rubber gloves is not a bad idea. Anoint the bag with Frankincense oil, saying:
“Minions of the Dark now quit this place,
For only Light will I embrace.”

Do this during the waning phases of the Moon, visualizing your surroundings being filled with a pure, white and golden light, driving out any darkness from every corner. At the New Moon, burn the bag, being careful to be upwind of the smoke. Remember: Oleander is deadly. Be very careful!

Health

To attract good health, use a small blue or purple bag. Add a small piece of amethyst, then fill the bag with lavender, white sage and a little St. John’s Wort. Anoint the bag with Amber oil, saying:
“Keep my mind and body strong and fit,
Strengthen both my heart and wit.”

Do this during the waxing phase of the moon, and sleep with the bag under your pillow at night. This one can be kept as long as necessary, but if you wish to dispose of it, do so with respect, either burning or burying it.

All these Charm Bags may be used in combination with Candle Magick, as well as other methods.

The Charms, Amulets and Talismans discussed in this class are only enough to scratch the surface. If you feel called to these types of Magick, you will need both study and inspiration. And don’t be afraid to experiment. The intent of the user is the primary source of the strength of the spells and rituals used. When you do experiment, however, keep detailed written records of exactly what you did, the time of day (or night), the date, the phase of the moon, and your results. Over time, you could develop a style of Magick all your own.

For help in choosing the herbs, oils and stones to use in your own charm bags, you can find a lot of help in many of Scott Cunningham’s books, including “Earth, Fire, Air and Water,” “Encyclopedia of Magickal Herbs,” and others. Study. Learn. Enjoy.

The first step in herbalism is to gather the tools you will need, and that is the main point of this first message. I have found the following useful and in many cases vital to learn and practice the use of herbs.

1) A Good mortar and Pestile, one of stone or metal is prefered. If wood is used you will need two, one for inedibles and one for edibles – make sure they do not look identical, as you do not want to accidentally poison anyone!!!

2) Containers. Although you can buy dried herbs over the counter in many places these days, do not store them in the plastic bags they come in, as these are usually
neither reuseable nor perfectly airtight. Rubbermaid style plastic containers are good, but expensive. I have used glass coffee and spice jars/bottles to good effect, as well as some medicine bottles. The more you recycle the better ecologically, just make sure they
have been thoroughly washed and dried before placing anything inside them.

3) Labels. This is vital! None of us in this day and age can possibly recognize each herb in its various forms simply by sight. Always label your containers as you fill them, and if possible date them when they were filled so you don’t keep spoiled stock on the shelf.

4) Tea Ball. A good metal teaball of the single cup size can be very useful in the longrun when your are experimenting, and when you are making single person doses of teas and tonics.

5) CheeseCloth : Useful for straining a partially liquid mixture and occasionnally for the making of sachets.

6) A Good sized teakettle. Preferably one that will hold at least a quart of water.
7) A Good teapot for simmering mixtures. I use one from a chinese import store that has done me well

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8) A good cutting board and a SHARP cutting knife for just herbal work.

9) A notebook of some sort to record the information in as you go, both successes and failures. Always record anything new you try that may or may not work, and also and research information you get from various sources (like this echo!)

10) An eyedropper.

11) White linen-style bandages. Some ace bandages are also useful in the long run.

12) A metal brazier of some sort, or a metal container that can withstand heavy useage and heat from within or without, useful for several things including the making of your own incenses.

13) Reference sources.

Again and again, some herbs seem worth the effort that don’t get nearly enough praise or press . . . in my opinion, anyway. You might want to give them a try if you haven’t already.

10.Pineapple Sage (Salvia elegans)

This tall sage has light green leaves and red, trumpet shaped flowers that bees and butterflies love. It does smell like pineapple and makes a great ingredient in fruit salads and teas.

9.Curry Plant (Helichrysum italicum)

This little grey plant with yellow flowers smells like a curry blend. It doesn’t need much water, so it’s a good choice for xeriscaping. Deers hate it, too. In cooking, sprigs can be added to roasting meats for a mild flavor that’s hard to describe. Its a cross between curry and something flowery or sweet – maple maybe. (Remove the sprigs before serving). It works well with chicken and can also compliment egg dishes when used in small quantities. Less is more with curry plant. It can taste bitter. FYI: This isn’t an ingredient in traditional Indian curry.

8.Paprika (Capsicum annuum)

Paprika is most often used in the U.S. as a seasoning for cold dishes, like potato salad and deviled eggs. Its flavor really shines in hot dishes, though. Paprika is available in a number of varieties, from hot to sweet. Try a few in your garden and you’ll be a paprika convert.

7.Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana)

This little sweetener-that-could is tricky to start from seed, but easy to grow after that. Dried and powdered, it’s an inexpensive low-cal sugar substitute that’s always a conversation starter. The Japanese have been using it for decades.

6.Sweet Marjoram (Origanum majorana)

This first cousin to oregano is milder and a little more delicate in the garden. It’s a great all-purpose seasoning, though, that works with robust sauces and soups as well as all different varieties of meat, foul and fish.

5.Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)

My chive patch comes back year after year, regardless of how brutally cold the winter months get. When green onions are too expensive (or a bacteria risk) I substitute chives. They work great in potatoes, as an egg garnish, and as a garden fresh accent on pizza.

4.Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Even if you don’t have cats, you might want to give catnip a try this year. Catnip oil is kryptonite to termites, and if you have an ailing tree or decaying stump, a catnip plant nearby may prove to be good insurance policy.

3.Lemon Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus citriodora)

Like lemon balm on steroids, lemon eucalyptus is very fragrant, and the dried leaves make an attractive and luscious addition to potpourri. The oil is a natural pest repellent and a luxurious base for your homemade cleaning products.

2.Corsican MintCorsican Mint (Mentha requienii)

Near a downspout or faucet, Corsican mint is the delicate mint that smells like a spring morning. Overwinter it in a tabletop solarium.

1. Saffron (Crocus sativus)

The stigma of this late season crocus is the king of spices, and you might be able to grow it in your own backyard. Saffron crocus flowers in late summer or early fall instead of early spring. A patch of 20 to 30 bulbs could net you enough saffron for a season.

Valerian, native to Europe and North America, has long been used to treat anxiety, stress, muscle tension and insomnia. It contains valerenic acid and valeranon that help the body relax into a calm state so that sleep can come naturally.

What you need to know before taking valerian:

• It should not be taken with any other sleep-enhancing drugs.

• It should not be taken during pregnancy or breast-feeding.

• It can cause drowsiness so should not be taken before driving or during any activity which requires you to be alert.

• It is not suitable for children.

• It can be combined with other herbs such as lemon balm, hops and passionflower.

The humble herb and spice rack in your kitchen today need not be just a decorative feature, although they look quite pleasing to the eye hanging on the wall, in both modern and old fashioned styled homes. They can in fact hold a plethora of natural healing ingredients that can also add great taste to the foods you eat every day.

Of all the herbs and spices you can choose from for flavor, there are 15 that are more powerful than the rest. Below is the list and you may well be surprised to learn of the many diverse conditions for which they’ve proven so very useful.

1. BASIL – Basil is an herbal carminative, that is, it can relieve gas and soothe stomach upsets. One possible explanation for its calming effect is a compound called eugenol, which has been shown to help ease muscle spasms. Research is still preliminary, but laboratory studies also suggest that compounds found in basil may help disrupt the dangerous chain of events that can lead to the development of cancer.

2. CAYENNE – Cayenne pepper is a hot red powder made from tropical chili peppers. It contains alkaloid capsaicin, which relieves pain by blocking the chemicals that send pain messages to the brain. If you eat cayenne at the first sign of any type of headache, with plenty of water as a chaser, this spicy herb may be an effective alternative treatment. Added to food, cayenne perks up appetite, improves digestion and relieves gas, nausea, and indigestion. The herb also thins phlegm and eases its passage from the lungs, thus helping to prevent and treat coughs, colds and bronchitis.

3. CINNAMON – Cinnamon bark contains an oily chemical called cinnamaldehyde that kills a variety of illness causing bacteria, including the dreaded E.coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus aureas. Research shows that cinnamon is also able to stop the growth of the Asian flu virus. Herbalists report that cinnamon bark also helps regulate the menstrual cycle and checks flooding during menopause. Also cinnamaldehyde has a tranquilizing effect that helps reduce anxiety and stress.

4. CLOVE – Oil of clove is 60 to 90 percent eugenol. A potent pain deadening antimicrobal. Clove has earned the official endorsement of the FDA as an effective stopgap measure for tooth pain. Clove is also among the spices that can help the body use insulin more effectively, thus lowering blood sugar somewhat. In one lab study, clove was also found to speed healing of the dreaded cold sores.

5. DILL – Dill has been used to soothe the digestive tract and treat heartburn, colic and gas for thousands of years. In fact, the word dill comes from the Old Norse word dilla, meaning to lull or soothe. The herb has an antifoaming action that suggests why it might help break up gas bubbles. Like parsley, dill is rich in chlorophyll, which also makes it useful in treating bad breath.

6. FENNEL – Rich in volatile oils, fennel is what’s known as a carminative herb, meaning that it can ease bloating, gas pains, and digestive spasms in the small and large intestines. Fennel can also reduce bad breath and body odor that originates in the intestines. Women who are breastfeeding may find that fennel, which works in a way similar to the body’s hormones, increases milk flow.

7. GARLIC – Intact garlic cloves contain an odorless, sulphur-containing amino acid called alliin. When the garlic is crushed, alliin becomes allicin. Research shows that allicin helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure and also helps prevents blood clots. Garlic can also reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). Compounds in this familiar bulb kill many organisms, including bacteria and viruses that cause earaches, flu and colds. Research indicates that garlic is also effective against digestive ailments and diarrhea. What’s more, further studies suggest that this common and familiar herb may help prevent the onset of cancers.

8. GINGER – When it comes to quelling the queasiness of motion sickness, ginger has no equal say herbalists. In fact, researchers have demonstrated that ginger beats dimenhydrate, the main ingredient in motion sickness drugs such as Dramamine, for controlling symptoms of seasickness and motion sickness. Ginger stimulates saliva flow and digestive activity, settles the stomach, relieves vomiting, eases pain from gas and diarrhea, and is effective as an anti-nausea remedy. This aromatic herb also helps lower cholesterol. Herbalists have also found it to be useful as a pain reliever.

9. MINT – Herbalists the world over use mint, as a premier stomach tonic, to counteract nausea and vomiting, promote digestion, calm stomach muscle spasms, relieve flatulence, and ease hiccups. Menthol, the aromatic oil in peppermint, also relaxes the airways and fights bacteria and viruses. Menthol interferes with the sensation from pain receptors, thus it may be useful in reducing headache pain.

Scientific evidence suggests that peppermint can kill many kinds of micro-organisms, and may boost mental alertness. In one study, people who inhaled menthol said they felt as if it relieved their nasal congestion, although it didn’t increase their measurable air flow.

10. OREGANO – Oregano contains at least four compounds that soothe coughs and 19 chemicals with antibacterial action that may help reduce body odor. The ingredients in oregano that soothe coughs may also help un-knot muscles in the digestive tract, making oregano a digestive aid. This familiar spice also contains compounds that can lower blood pressure too.

11. PARSLEY – Diuretic herbs such as parsley prevent problems such as kidney stones and bladder infections and keep our body’s plumbing running smoothly by causing it to produce more urine. They also relieve bloating during menstruation. Also there’s a reason for that parsley on the edge of the diner plate, its not just there for fancy decoration; it’s an effective breath freshener because it contains high levels of chlorophyll.

12. ROSEMARY – Rosemary is one of the richer herbal sources of antioxidants, which have been shown to prevent cataracts, and contains 19 chemicals with antibacterial action that help fight infection. Traditionally used to ease asthma, this common culinary ingredient has volatile oils that can reduce the airway constriction induced by histamine, that chemical culprit of asthma and other allergy symptoms. Herbalists think that rosemary may also help ease breast pain by acting as a natural drying agent to fluid filled cysts.

13. SAGE – The oils found in sage are both antiseptic and antibiotic, so it can help fight infections. Sage is effective for symptoms of menopause, night sweats and hot flashes, because of its estrogenic action and because its tannins can dry up perspiration. There’s also compelling evidence that sage may be of value to people with diabetes for whom the hormone insulin does not work as efficiently as it should. Lab studies indicate that sage may boost insulin’s action.

14. THYME – Thyme contains thymol, which increases blood-flow to the skin. The warmth is comforting, and some herbalists believe that the increased blood-flow speeds healing. An anti-spasmodic. Thyme relaxes respiratory muscles and is endorsed for treating bronchitis by Commission E, the expert panel that judges the safety and effectiveness of herbal medicines for the German government. Aromatherapists say that thyme’s scent is a mood lifter.

15. TURMERIC – Many clinical studies agree that curcumin in turmeric has anti-inflammatory effects, including a significant beneficial effect in relieving rheumatoid arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome. Curcumin, which gives this spice its familiar yellow pigment, may also lower cholesterol. Turmeric is also packed with antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, and E, which have been shown to prevent cataracts. Turmeric should not be used by people with gallstones or bile obstruction. Though turmeric is often used by pregnant women, it is important to consult with a doctor before doing so as turmeric can be a uterine stimulant.

Passed down to us by our forefathers and countless generations throughout the world, these food additives and enhancers are just a selected few that are currently known to have medicinal and beneficial properties, yet represent the more commonly used. By including these herbs and spices into your daily cooking or diet on a regular basis, you will greatly enhance your quality of life.

In the practice of magical herbery, the collections of what might be considered “herbs” is far greater than in the study of medicinal herbology. Magic can encompass so many thing, the possibilities are virtually endless.

The following are generally considered “herbs” when dealing with most forms of herbal magic.

All leaf varieties of plants, both edible and non-edible.

All fruits and vegetables.

Spices and nuts.

Trees, shrubs and ground-level plants.

Weeds, both domestic (lawn weeds) and wild (meadow “weeds”)

An herb, in the practice of spell-casting and magic, can be the single item which pushes magic to its purpose, if the practitioner is in tune with the herb, leaf, plant or fruit he/she is using.

Each herb has a different molecular vibration. This is not magic, but science.

Molecules which make up a thing, vibrate to maintain the bond with surrounding molecules. When that vibration slows dramatically and ceases, the thing dies. However, the energy (soul, spirit, essence, chi) that inhabited that thing leaves its residue behind and the item maintains the signature of its former inhabitant, but not its frequency. The frequency is the rate at which the living active molecules general vibrate. The frequency of a plant with its roots firmly and healthfully imbedded in the earth has a higher frequency of vibration than that of the dried herbs in the cupboard. In each case though, we can sense or “read” the signature regardless of frequency, just as we know that the dried basil in the cupboard is the same basil cut from the garden a few months ago.

It is the signature of the herb which lends its power to magic work.

The history of magical herbery is as old as this planet. Earth has maintained living growth throughout its life, even in the Ice Age when the smallest organisms and cellular growth took place.

Before human beings evolved from the primordial soup, plant life maintained the health and healing of the beasts which roamed the planet. Animals instinctively seem to know which herb is necessary to make them feel better. They seek out that healing power by smell or recognition. Dogs will chew regular lawn grass. Annoying as that may be to the dog’s human, either in lawn care or cleanup after the animal, the dog only knows that the grass relates to his upset digestive tract and will relieve the pain or digestive block. Grass is a basic fiber (plant with heavier strings or strands of fiber running through it) and aids the dog’s digestive process.

Assuming that the first cognitive human beings watched animal behavior very closely, they would naturally try the same herbs and plants, leaves and shrubs that the animals used to heal their ills. From that practice evolved general use and experimentation with plants.

Jean Auel makes a wonderful and very believable hypothesis, set in fiction, in her series beginning with Clan Of The Cave Bear. Her primitive characters have maintained a certain “ancestral memory” which enabled them to continue adding to their stores of knowledge. As humans became more human-like and less ape-like, the ancestral store of memories was lost.

The Earth in its pure evolution, was a balanced world of equal components. For every illness or condition, there was a cure, through plant life or minerals. Pollution, erosion and overpopulation have knocked that delicate balance off kilter.

Almost instinctively, humans attune themselves to the vibrations of herbs and use them in an automatic way. As an example, basil is an herb which strengthens love, lust and feelings of romance and closeness. Have you ever wondered why romantic dinners often involve a pasta dish? Basil is most-often a key ingredient in Italian cooking.

In using herbs for magic, you must become aware of the aspects of the herb itself. Awareness is the ENTIRE key. It is vital that you take the time to look and really see, feel and really experience, smell and really recognize. With practice these are very possible.

An herb’s potential in your magical work is endless. It will interact with your key vibrations based on your intent and effort. It will expand with you as you fill with energy. Once you begin to recognize and experience the herb as a unique thing, your magic will naturally grow more powerful.

Your Responsibility In Magic

In any action, there is a reaction. This is a basic universal law. What you do with your magical work has a direct effect on the world, in some form or other. Good intent creates strong magic. An herb’s signature is neither positive or negative, but just IS. It is the intent which you place in your work that steers the energy to its intended goal.

Be responsible in your magic. Care for all things. Herb magic, nor any other form of magic should be used in the harming of others. What you send out, WILL return to you, in a different form and with a different face. You can ensure positive return if you maintain a positive intent.

Be happy in your work, take joy in your interaction with herbs and be content that you have done your best.

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris): Mugwort is well known as the premier herb for dreamwork. The silver on the underside of the leaves shows an affinity for the moon and the female reproductive system. Mugwort tea and essential oil help ease PMS symptoms. The essential oil also helps to relax the brain, improve circulation and aids in delivering nutrients to brain cells. It is a stimulant which helps keep the female hormones functioning properly. Mugwort itself gets its name “mug weed” because it used to be used to flavor ale/beer before the use of hops became popular. Moxa, which is used in acupuncture, is made from dried Mugwort. In the nine herbs charm Mugwort was named “Una,” the oldest herb. ​

Plantain (Plantago major): Plantain was called “waybroad” in ancient herbal texts for its propensity to grow where the earth was most densely packed: trails and roadways. Plantain is well known for its ability to pull nutrients from the soil, and draw out infections and foreign bodies from people. Have a splinter or step on some broken glass? Use plantain oil to help remove it. I like to call it Nature’s bandaid. It makes a great field poultice if you’ve been stung by a bee or other insect, it’s very soothing to cuts and abrasions and can ease discomfort caused by poison ivy. Plantain is also great for soothing dry sinuses and the digestive system. Plantain was referred to as the “mother of herbs” in the 9 Herbs Charm.

Watercress (Nasturtium officinalis): Incredibly high in Vitamin C, this delicious herb has been used both medicinally and as food for centuries. It has a mustard-like taste and is great in soups, sandwiches, salads and as a pot herb. Because of its high vitamin and mineral content, it is a valuable remedy for chronic illnesses. It is also a natural diuretic. In the Nine Herbs Charm it is called “Stune.”

Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis): A wonderful nervine, chamomile is also a great herb for the digestive system, helping to soothe upset stomachs. Chamomile tea is a soothing remedy for menstrual cramps and also helps with insomnia. Distilling German chamomile yields a wonderful blue essential oil which is one of the few oils safe to use “neat” or directly on the skin. I have successfully eased burns with a drop of chamomile essential oil. It seems to have regenerative properties as no scarring is evident. The Saxon word for Chamomile is “Maythen.”

Nettle (Urtica dioica): Nettle is a fabulous herb, one of the most mineral-rich plants. Great in teas, stir fry and soups, Nettles is also good for hypothyroidism and adrenal fatigue. It is a “trophorestorative” meaning that it is a great restorer for any system in the body. To help ease seasonal allergies start drinking nettles tea about two weeks before spring buds pop. Nettles support extremely compromised kidneys. Nettle root helps with prostate issues, especially enlarged prostate. It is a stimulating herb that also energizes. Nettles was known as “Wergulu.”

Crab Apple (Pyrus malus): This is the original wild apple. It is believed all apples developed from the Crab Apple. It has long been a source of vitamins and nutrients, and helps to clean teeth and increase energy.

Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium): A traditional spring tonic in Central Europe, this popular French culinary herb’s seeds have been found in ancient Egyptian tombs. It is carminative (prevents gas), helps purify the blood and lowers blood pressure. It is a diuretic. The juice of the fresh plant applied to eczema dries it up. It helps with abscesses. It is also a popular culinary herb in French cooking. To the Saxons, it was once the go-to remedy to restore the will to live.

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare): Fennel is also a carminative. It is a wonderful herb for the digestion. A mix of fennel essential oil and a carrier oil like apricot kernel oil, when rubbed on the stomach will ease discomfort. Many sources say that it was believed that fennel helped with longevity, and imparted both strength and courage. It has a pleasing aroma