Juniper
MEDICINAL: Juniper has been used to clear uric acid from the body. It is high in natural insulin, and has the ability to heal the pancreas where there has been no permanent damage. It is useful for all urinary infections and for water retention problems. Juniper is used externally as a compress to treat acne, athlete's foot, dry skin, and dandruff.
MAGICKAL: Juniper is used to protect from accidents and theft. Grown at your doorstep, it will offer your home protection. It is used in incenses for protection.
GROWING: Junipers of all species are adaptable to many growing conditions. They are low-maintenance plants. Choose a species suited to your landscape needs, to avoid problems later, as some folks plant them with no regard for their eventual size, and sometime find they have a nuisance on their hands as the plant matures. If you want berries, you must plant a male and a female juniper.
Kava Kava
MEDICINAL: Used to treat insomnia and nervousness. Relieves stress after injury. Used as a tea for pains associated with nerve and skin diseases. Large doses can cause a buildup of toxic substances in the liver.
MAGICKAL: A tea of kava kava is drunk to offer protection against evil and to invite good luck. Sprinkle the tea around the home and property for the same uses.
Kelp
MEDICINAL: Kelp is used to strengthen and promote the glands. It controls the thyroid and regulates metabolism. It is a sustainer to the nervous system and the brain, and is a terrific boost for pregancy and the developing child. It contains over 30 minerals and vitamins.
GROWING: Best found in stores, as this is a seaweed that grows in the ocean.
*Lavendar
MEDICINAL: Lavendar tea made from the blossoms is used as an antidepressant. It is used in combination with other herbs for a remedy for depression and nervous tension and stress. It is also used as a headache remedy. It also can be used to aid digestion and calm nerves.
OTHER USES: A wad of cotten moistened with Lavender will keep moths away and freshen a room. Also used to repel insects such a flys and mosquitos.
MAGICKAL: Lavendar is used in purification baths and rituals. It is used in healing incenses and sachets. Carrying the herb will enable the carrier to see ghosts. The essential oil will heighten sexual desire in men. Lavendar water sprinkled on the head is helpful in keeping your chastity. The flowers are burned to induce sleep, and scattered throughout the home to maintain peaceful harmony within. Carrying lavendar brings strength and courage.
GROWING:Lavendar likes light sandy soil and full sun. It grows to 2-3 feet tall 3 feet wide. It should be mulched in colder climates for winter protection for this perennial.
Lemon Balm
MEDICINAL: Lemon Balm is used in treating headaches, colds, and nervous or upset stomachs. Externally the crushed leaves can be applied to wounds and insect bites to speed healing.
MAGICKAL: Lemon Balm is used in spells to bring success, and in healing spells. It is often used in spells to find love and friendship.
GROWING: Lemon Balm is a perennial that can reach up to 3 feet high. It needs full sun and rich soil with regular watering. Plant where you can enjoy the lemon scent of the leaves from a porch, deck, or open window.
Licorice
MEDICINAL: Licorice Root is a great source of the female hormone estrogen. It is used for coughs and chest ailments. It is an important herb to use when recovering from an illness, as it supplies needed energy to the system. Used as a remedy for stomach and heart problems, indigestion, and most respiratory ailments. Helps to normalize and regulate hormone production. Should not be used by pregnant women as it can sometimes lead to high blood pressure with prolonged use.
MAGICKAL: Licorice root was buried in tombs and caskets to help the soul pass easily into the Summerland. Chewing on a piece of the root will make you passionate. It is added to love sachets, and an ingredient in spells to ensure fidelity.
GROWING: Licorice is a perennial that reaches 3 to 7 feet tall. Hard freezes will kill it, so it grows best in warm sunny climates.
Lovage
MEDICINAL: Lovage root eases bloating and flatulence. It is also used with other herbs to counteract colds and flu. MAGICKAL: Lovage is added to baths to clean the pysychic portion of the mind. Added to baths with rose petals will make you attractive to the opposite sex.
GROWING: Lovage is a perennial that grows 3 - 7 feet tall. It is adaptable to many conditions, and does best in full sun.
Mandrake
MEDICINAL: Mandrake is a very strong gland stimulant. It is used to treat skin problems, digestion, and chronic liver diseases. It is most often combined with other herbs. It is very powerful and should be used with caution, as well as in very small small dosages. Pregnant women should not use this herb. It is potentially very toxic to anyone if improperly used. Do not use this herb without the proper guidance from a professional!
MAGICKAL: Mandrake is used in the home as a powerful protection. It is carried to promote conception, and men carry it to promote fertility and cure impotency.
Marigold
MEDICINAL: Marigold is a great first aid remedy. It relieves headaches, earaches, and reduces fevers. It is excellent for the heart and for the circulation. It is also used externally to heal wounds and bruises.
MAGICKAL: Fresh marigolds in any room heightens the energy within. Placed under the pillow before bed, it induces clairvoyancy. Planted in rows with tomatoes, it will keep pests from them and other vegetables. Planted near the porch/deck, it will keep mosquitoes away. It is also used to attract and see the fairies. Scattered under the bed, they protect during sleep. Add to bath water to win the respect of everyone you meet.
GROWING: Marigold is an annual plant that comes in many sizes and colors. It is adaptable to many soils. Give plenty of water and full sun.
Marjoram
MEDICINAL: Marjoram is useful for treating asthma, coughs, and is used to strengthen the stomach and intestines, as well as used with other herbs for headaches.
MAGICKAL: Marjoram should be added to all love charms and sachets. A bit in each room will aid in protection of the home. If given to a grieving or depressed person, it will bring them happiness.
GROWING: Marjoram is a perennial herb growing 1 - 3 feet tall. It likes all kinds of soils, and prefers full sun and rich soil. It is grown as an annual or wintered indoors in cold regions.
Marshmallow
MEDICINAL: Marshmallow aids in the expectoration of difficult mucous and phlegm. It helps to relax and soothe the bronchial tubes, making it valuable for all lung ailments. It is an anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory for joints and the digestive system. It is often used externally with cayenne to treat blood poisoning, burns, and gangrene.
GROWING: Marshmallow needs marshes and swamps to grow. It is a perennial growing to 4 feet tall.
Mugwort
MEDICINAL: Mugwort is used in all conditions dealing with nervousness, shaking, and insomnia. It is used to help induce menses, especially combined with cramp bark. Often used to stimulate the liver and as a digestive aid. It should not be used by pregant women.
Poison Ivy
MAGICKAL: Add to divination incenses. It is carried to prevent poisoning and stroke. Fresh leaves rubbed on magickal tools will increase their powers. An infusion made of mugwort is used to cleanse crystals and scrying mirrors. Placed beneath your pillow, or in a dream pillow, it will promote astral travel and good dreams.
Mullein
MEDICINAL: Mullein is a terrific narcotic herb that is not addictive or poisonous. It is used as a pain killer and to bring on sleep. It loosens mucous, making it useful for treating lung ailments. It strengthens the lymphatic system.
MAGICKAL: Mullein is worn to give the carrier courage. The leaves are also carried to prevent animal attacks and accidents when in the wilderness. In a sleeping pillow it will guard against nightmares. Use as a substitution in old spells for "grave dust".
GROWING: Mullein is adaptable to many soils. It prefers full sun. It is a biennial plant growing to 8 feet tall. It is a prolific self-sower.
Myrrh
MEDICINAL: Myrrh is a powerful antiseptic, being a remedy second only to echinacea. It is a strong cleaning and healing agent, soothing the body and speeding the healing process. It is often used with goldenseal. It is most often used in mouthwashes, gargles, and toothpastes for fighting and preventing gum disease.
MAGICKAL: Myrrh is burned to purify and protect. It is used to consecrate and purify ritual tools and objects needing to be blessed. It is a standard magickal herb to be included in the tools of everyone.
Myrtle
MEDICINAL: Myrtle is used to treat bronchitis, bruises, bad breath, wounds, colds, sinusitis, and coughs.
MAGICKAL: Myrtle is burned as an incense to bring beauty, to honor Diana and to Venus, and is a symbol of glory and happy love. Myrtle tea will make you look beautiful to your loved one. A distillation of the leaves and flowers combined will make a wonderful beauty wash for the face, and is known as "angel water". It is used in spells to keep love alive and exciting. Grow on each side of the house to preserve and protect the love within.
GROWING: Myrtle is an evergreen plant that prefers warm climates. It has small pointed leaves, and grows to about 12 feet high. Its blossoms are small, white, and in clusters. The leaves are gathered and dried for use in August.
Nettle
MEDICINAL: The plant is used for high blood pressure, gout, PMS, rheumatism, and ending diarrhea, scurvy, liver and prostate problems. Externally it is used as a compress to treat neuralgia and arthritis. It is a very high source of digestible iron. Also treats anemia, fatigue, edema, menstrual difficulties, hay fever and allergies.
MAGICKAL: Sprinkle nettle around the room to protect it. It is also burned during ceremonies for exorcism. Stuffed in a poppet and sent back to the sender of a curse or bad spell, it will end the negativity. Nettles gathered before sunrise and fed to cattle is said to drive evil spirits from them.
GROWING: As nettle is considered a bothersome weed, it is best to purchase this herb from a store. The spines on a nettle plant can cause painful stinging, so it is not a good idea to include it in your herbal garden.
*Nutmeg
MEDICINAL: A small amount of nutmeg, about the size of a pea, can be taken once daily over a long period (6 months to a year) to relieve chronic nervous problems, as well as heart problems stemming from poor circulation. Added to milk, and baked fruits and desserts, it aids in digestion, and relieves nausea. Large doses can be poisonous, and may cause miscarriage for pregnant women.
MAGICKAL: Carried, nutmeg will help with clairvoyancy, and ward off rheumatism. It is included in prosperity mixtures. Nutmegs are carried as good luck charms.
Oak
MEDICINAL: Oak bark is used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and bleeding. For external use the bark and/or leaves are boiled and then applied to bruises, swollen tissues, wounds that are bleeding, and varicose veins.
MAGICKAL: The oak is the most sacred of all the trees. The most powerful mistletoe grows in oaks. The leaves are burned for purification, and the branches make powerful wands. The acorn is a fertility nut. It is carried to promote conception, ease sexual problems, and increase sexual attractiveness. The leaves and bark are used in binding spells. Planting an acorn in the dark of the Moon will bring you money. Oak wood carreid will protect from harm, and hung in the home it will protect the home and all within.
*Oats
MEDICINAL: Oats are a traditional food for those recovering from an illness. It also supplies necessary fiber in the diet. Oats made into packs and pastes clear up many skin disorders, such as acne. Oats reducces blood cholesterol levels.
MAGICKAL: Oats are used in prosperity and money spells, and in rituals to the harvest.
GROWING: Oats are an annual grass that grows up to 4 feet tall. Easiest to purchase from a health food store, as much is needed to be beneficial, and takes up more room than the average gardener has available. It does make a pretty ornamental grass in the garden and around foundations.
*Onion
MEDICINAL: Onion is used externally as an antiseptic. Internally, it can alleviate gas pains, reduce hypertension, and reduce cholesterol.
MAGICKAL: Has been used as a charm against evil spirits. Halved or quartered onions placed in the home absorb negativity. An onion under your pillow will give you prophetic dreams. Magickal swords and knives are purified by rubbing them with an onion half.
GROWING: Onion is a perennial herb that grows from a bulb. It prefers rich garden soils and plenty of water. The greens above ground can be used alone, and the bulb harvested by pulling from the ground, and allowing the tops to dry before storing in a dry location, with temperatures between 35 and 50 degrees F.
*Orange
MAGICKAL: The dried peel is added to love charms. The fresh or dried orange flowers added to the bath makes you attractive.The fruit itself hinders or banishes lust. Orange juice is used in rituals in place of wine.
GROWING: Oranges prefer a rich, sandy soil, and warm year-round temperatures. For most of us, that means growing them indoors as house plants.
*Oregano
MEDICINAL: Oregano is used to promote perspiration as a treatment for colds, flu, and fevers. A tea of oregano is often used to bring on menses and relieve associated menstrual discomfort. It is also used in baths and inhalations to clear lungs and bronchial passages.
MAGICKAL: Oregano is used to help forget and let go of a former loved one, such as a former spouse, boyfriend, girlfriend, etc. Burn in incenses or drink the infusion to aid in spells for letting go.
GROWING: Oregano is a perennial that prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline soil and full sun. It is propogated by seed, root division, or cuttings. Harvest just as the plant is about to bloom for medicinal use.
Patchouli
MEDICINAL: Patchouli is used to treat dysentery, diarrhea, colds without fevers, vomiting, and nausea.
MAGICKAL: Patchouli is a powerful oil worn to attract the opposite sex. It is a sensual oil, and it can ward off negativity and evil. It is also burned in incenses to aid divination and clairvoyance.
Pennyroyal
MEDICINAL: Pennyroyal herb removes gas from the digestive system. It is also used as a tea, taken a few days before menstruation to aid a suppressed flow. It is used in treatments for clods, upset stomach, and to stimulate blood flow to the pelvis area. It's strong minty smell makes its essential oil useful for externally repelling insects such as mosquitoes, fleas, and flies. It should not be taken or used by pregnant women. Large internal doses have been known to cause convulsions and coma. Pennyroyal oil is an effective insect repellant. Pennyroyal oil should NEVER be taken internally!
MAGICKAL: Pennyroyal placed in a shoe will prevent weariness on long walks and hikes, or journeys. It is also added to protection and exorcism incenses. It aids in making favorable business deals. It is given to arguing couples to cease their fighting and restore harmony in the relationship.
GROWING: Pennyroyal is a perennial that grows to 1 1/2 feet high. It tolerates most soils, and prefers direct sun. Grow as you would any member of the mint family.
Peony
MEDICINAL: Peony root treats menstrual cramps and irregularities. It is also used in combination with other herbs to ease emotional nervous conditions.
MAGICKAL: Dried Peony roots are carved and/or made into bracelets and necklaces for protection, as well as for breaking spells and curses. Peonies planted outside the home guard against storm damage and demons. A chain of beads cut from the dried root was worn as a protection against illness and injury, and to cure insanity.
GROWING: Peonies are a perennial shrub-like plant, growing 2 - 4 feet high. They prefer rich, humousy, well-drained soils, and full sun.
*Peppermint
MEDICINAL: Peppermint cleans and strengthens the body. It acts as a sedative on the stomach and strengthens the bowels. It is also mild enough to give to children as needed for chills and colds. Used with bitter herbs to improve their taste.
MAGICKAL: Peppermint is used in charms to heal the sick, as well as in incenses in the sickroom of the patient. It is burned to cleanse the home, and is used in sleep pillows to aid in getting to sleep. Placed beneath the pillow, it can bring dreams that give a glimpse into the future. The essential oil is used in spells to create a positive change in one's life.
GROWING: Peppermint is a perennial grown in full sun, is tolerant of most soil types, and grows to 3 feet tall.
Periwinkle
MEDICINAL: Periwinkle is used made into a tea or salve for external use to treat skin problems such as dermatitis, eczema, and acne.
MAGICKAL: Periwinkle can help restore memory when it is gazed at or carried. It is also hung on a door to protect all within, and to prevent a witch from entering a home.
GROWING: Periwinkle is a perennial plant that spreads by putting out runners, mostly used for a ground cover in partial to full shade. It prefers moist, well-drained soils.
Plantain
MEDICINAL: Plantain is used to clear mucous from the body, and to neutralize poisons. As a mild tea it is used to treat lung problems in children, and as a stronger tea is used to treat stomach ulcers. It is also used for diarrhea, bladder infections, and for treating wounds.
MAGICKAL: Plantain is hung in the car to guard against evil spirits.
GROWING: Plantains are common weeds, some varieties being annual and some perennial. They are found in all soil types, and prefer full sun.
Poppy
MEDICINAL: Poppy is used for pain, insomnia, nervousness, and chronic coughs.
MAGICKAL: Poppy seed pods are used in prosperity charms. The seeds are added to food to aid in getting pregnant. To find the answer to a question, write it in blue ink on a piece of white paper. Place the paper inside a poppy seed pod and put it beneath your pillow. The answer will come to you in a dream.
GROWING: Poppies are perennials that like poor to average soils that tend toward dryness. There are varieties that will grow most anywhere in North America. Their foliage tends to die off by July, after a spectacular showing of flowers in the spring, but the foliage begins rejuvenation around September, which waits until spring to begin growing again.
Queen Anne's Lace
MEDICINAL:Queen Anne's Lace is used for treating gallstones and kidney stones, as well as water retention and strains and sprains.
GROWING: Queen Anne's Lace is found throughout most of North America. It is a wildflower, distinguished by the one red flower in the center of a cluster of many tiny white flowers. It is a biennial that grows to 3 feet tall.
*Raspberry
MEDICINAL: Red Raspberry is one of the most proven female herbs. It strengthens the uterine wall during preganancy, reduces the pain of childbirth, and helps to reduce false labor pains. After childbirth it is used to decrease uterine swelling and cut down on post-partum bleeding. It is used to ease menstrual cramps and to regulate the flow during menstruation. It is also good for vomiting in small children, and dysentery and diarrhea in infants.
MAGICKAL: Raspberry is served as a love-inducing food. The brambles are hung at the entrance to the home to prevent unwanted spirits from entering.
GROWING: Red Raspberry is a biennial or perennial, depending on the variety, growing 3 - 6 feet tall. They need a cold winter and a long cool spring, so they do not do well in the South. They aren't too picky about soil, so long as they get plenty of water.
*Rose
MEDICINAL: Rose hips are very nourishing to the skin, as well as containing vitamin C. It is used as a blood purifier, and for treatment of infections, colds, and flus.
MAGICKAL: Rose water is used in gourmet dishes and in love potions. Petals are used in healing incense and sachets, and burned to provide a restful night's sleep. The essential oil is used in ritual baths to provide peace, love, and harmony within the self. The hips are strung like beads and worn to attract love. Rose petals sprinkled around the home will calm personal stress and upheavals in the home.
GROWING: Roses of all varieties are adaptable to most soils as long as they have adequate water, and are occasionally fed through the growing season. There are varieties that will grow throughout North America. Plant them where you can enjoy their beauty and fragrance.
*Rosemary
MEDICINAL: Rosemary is a stimulant of the circulatory system. It is used to treat bites and stings externally. Internally it is used to treat migraines, bad breath, and to stimulate the sexual organs. It is also used to treat nervous disorders, upset stomachs, and is use to regulate the menstrual cycle and to ease cramps. Mix the crushed leaves generously into meats, fish, potato salads, etc. at your next picnic to prevent food poisoning.
MAGICKAL: Rosemary in all of its forms is used for protection and banishment. Rosemary leaves under your pillow do away with evil spirits and bad dreams. It is hung on porches and doors to keep thieves out. Rosemary is grown to attract elves.
GROWING: Rosemary is a perennial that prefers mild climates, so it needs to be grown indoors where the winters are harsh, or very heavily mulched. It reaches 2-4 feet in height, and is tolerable of poor soils. Cut back after flowering to keep it from becoming leggy.
Rue
MEDICINAL: Rue is used in small amounts to expel poisons from the system, such as those from snake bites, scorpion, spider, or jellyfish bites. It should not be taken with meals, and it should never be used by pregnant women. Juices from the fresh plant can cause the skin to blister. It is used internally and externally as a remedy for tendonitis.
MAGICKAL: The herb is used in sachets and amulets to ward off illness. The smell of the fresh, crushed herb will chase away thoughts or envy, egotism, and love gone wrong. Rue leaves placed on the forehead will chase away headacahes. Added to baths, rue drives away spells and hexes placed on you. Rue is said to grow best if it is stolen.
GROWING: Rue is a bushy perennial growing to 2-3 feet tall. It is found in in average to poor soils throughout North America, and prefers full sun.
Saffron
MEDICINAL: Saffron is used as a preventative for heart disease, as it prevents the build-up of cholesterol. It is also used to soothe the membranes of the stomach and colon. It is not to be taken in large doses, nor should it be taken by pregnant women.
MAGICKAL: Saffron is used to clean the hands before rituals. It is used in healing mixtures. The essential oil is used to induce clairvoayancy. Thrown into the air, it can bring the winds.
GROWING: Saffron grows from a bulb commonly known as a corm. It is a perennial. Plant in the fall, 3 inches deep in light, well-drained soil where it will receive plenty of sun. The three-pronged stigmas that remain after flowering is the part to harvest for healing use.
*Sage
MEDICINAL: Sage is used to relieve excess mucous buildup. It is beneficial to the mind by easing mental exhaustion and by strengthening the concentrating abilities. In a lotion or salve, it is useful for treating sores and skin eruptions, and for stopping bleeding in all cuts. Chewing the fresh leaves soothes mouth sores and sore throats, as will sage tea. It is good for all stomach troubles, diarrhea, gas, flu and colds. As a hair rinse, it removes dandruff. Sage combined with peppermint, rosemary, and wood betony provides an excellent headache remedy. It is used to regulate the menstrual cycle, to decrease milk flow in lactating women, aids in treating hot flashes, and is used as a deodorant.
MAGICKAL: Sage is used in healing amulets, incenses, and sachets, and is also used in the same manner for bringing prosperity. Sage burned at the altar or in sacred space consecrate the area. Burned in the home, it removes impurities and banishes evil, as well as providing protection.
GROWING: Sage is an evergreen perennial, growing to 2 feet tall. It does best in sandy, limey soil in full sun.
*St. Johnswort
MEDICINAL: St. Johnswort is useful for bronchitis, internal bleeding, healing wounds, and for dirty, septic wounds. It is used to ease depression, headaches, hysteria, neuralgia, shingles, as well as symptoms that occur during menopause. It is useful in swellings, abcesses, and bad insect stings. Studies are showing that it may be effective in combatting AIDS by increasing the immune functions of the body. DO , NOT GO INTO THE SUN if using this herb, as it causes blistering sunburns, especially in fair-skinned people.
MAGICKAL: St. Johnswort is hung around the neck to prevent fevers. Wearing the herb aids you in war and other battles, including those of the will and indecision. Burnt it will banish evil and negativity. Hung in the home or carried, it will prevent spells of others from entering, and it is used in exorcisms. If you pick the plant on the night of St. John and hang it on your bedroom wall, you will dream of your future husband.
GROWING: St. Johnswort is a perennial reaching 32 inches tall. It is grown throughout much of North America. It prefers rich to moderately rich soils, and full sun. It is not long-lived, so replant every few years. Harvest the leaves and flower tops as they bloom and store in air-tight containers.
Sandalwood
MEDICINAL: Sandalwood oil is used to cool the body during fevers and heat stroke. It is also used to aid in the passing of kidney and gall stones, and for infections in the urinary tract.
MAGICKAL: Sandalwood oil is massaged on the forehead and between the eyes to help center and calm the mind. It is used in healing oils and sachets. It is burned as a purifiying agent in every room of the home, and as a protective agent.
Saw Palmetto
MEDICINAL: Used for all wasting diseases. Also very useful for all diseases of the reproductive glands and organs. It is also used for the mucous membranes, as well as for treating bronchitis and lung asthma. It's most popular current use is for treating enlargement of the prostate gland.
Scullcap
MEDICINAL: Scullcap is a food for the nerves. It supports and strengthens as well as giving immediate relief from all chronic and acute diseases that affect the nerves. It is used to regulate sexual desires, and is very useful in remedies for feminine cramps and menstrual troubles. It reduces fevers and aids in easing insomnia and restlessness. It is also used to lessen the affects of epilepsy.
MAGICKAL: Scullcap is used in spells that bring about peace, tranquility, and relaxation.
GROWING: Scullcap prefers moist well-drained soils. It is a perennial that reaches to 3 feet in full to partial shade. It is not long-lived, so replant every few years.
Slippery Elm
MEDICINAL: Slippery Elm is used to neutralize stomach acids. It is used to boost the adrenal glands, draws out impurities and heals all parts of the body. It is most useful for the respiratory system. Externally it is an excellent healer for burns, skin cancers, poison ivy, and wounds.
MAGICKAL: Slippery elm is burned to stop gossip.
GROWING: The inner bark of the slippery elm is the portion used for healing. It is a deciduous tree that grows 50-80 feet tall. It needs full sun and good soils. It is found from Canada to Florida, west to the Dakotas and Texas.
Solomon's Seal
MEDICINAL: Solomon's Seal is used to treat tuberculosis, diabetes, and wasting diseases. It is also used as a kidney tonic, and as a healer of broken bones.
MAGICKAL: It is added to protection sachets and incenses. It is also used for exorcisms and cleansing mixtures.
GROWING: Solomon's Seal is a perennial herb that grows from 1 - 3 feet high. It prefers moist woods, thickets, and roadsides. It prefers full to partial sun.
*Spearmint
MEDICINAL: Spearmint is a valuable herb for stopping vomiting during pregnancy. It is gentle enough to use for colic in babies, while aiding in curing colds, flu, and gas.
MAGICKAL: Spearmint is added to healing incenses and sachets to aid in healing lung diseases and other afflictions. Place some in a sleeping pillow for protection during sleep.
GROWING: Grow Spearmint as you would any other member of the Mint family. It is a perennial growing to 3 feet tall and is tolerable of many different growing conditions.
Squawvine
MEDICINAL: Squawvine is most beneficial in childbirth. It strengthens the uterus, helps prevent miscarriage, and relieves congestion of the uterus and ovaries. Its antiseptic properties make it valuable for treating vaginal infections, and is a natural nerve sedative. It is most often used in combination with Raspberry.
GROWING: Squawvine is a perennial evergreen creeper that grows on forest floors.
Taheebo
MEDICINAL: Also known as Pau d' Arco. Taheebo is found in South America. It is a powerful herb with antibiotic and virus-killing properties. It gives the body the energy needed to defend itself and to help resist diseases. It is used in South America to battle cancer and leukemia. It is useful in aiding all chronic diseases.
*Thyme
MEDICINAL: Thyme is a powerful antiseptic. It is used in cases of anemia, bronchial ailments, and intestinal disturbances. It is used as an antiseptic against tooth decay, and destroys fungal infections as in athlete's foot and skin parasites such as crabs and lice. It is good for colic, flatulence, and colds.
MAGICKAL: Thyme is burnt to purge and fumigate magickal rooms and spaces, as well as to bring good health. Thyme in a sleeping pillow repels nightmares.
GROWING: Thyme is a perennial that loves warm, sunny fields, and is found throughout North America. It grows to 15 inches tall, and makes an excellent ground cover on dry slopes. Trim it back after flowering to prevent it from becoming woody.
Uva Ursi
MEDICINAL: Uva Ursi strengthens and tones the urinary tract. It is especially useful for kidney infections, bladder infections, and inflammatory disease of the urinary tract. It is used as a diabetes remedy for excessive sugar in the blood. It is used for postpartum women to return the womb to its natural size, as well as to prevent infection of the womb after childbirth. It should not be used by pregnant women.
MAGICKAL: Add to sachets to increase psychic powers.
GROWING:Uva Ursi rarely grows more than a few inches tall. It is best propogated from cuttings. It takes an unusually long time to root, so consider instead buying small plants from nurseries. It does poorly in rich soil, as it prefers poor soils in full sun. Once established, it spreads and becomes an attractive, hardy ground cover, surviving temperatures of -50.
Valerian
MEDICINAL: Valerian is a relaxer, and is very effective for insomnia. It is often used as a tranquilizer, but it leaves no sluggish effects on the user. It is used for nervous tension, pain relieving, and for muscle spasms. It should not be taken over a long period of time, as it can cause mental depression in some people after long-term steady use.
MAGICKAL: Valerian is used to get fighting couples back together, in spells of love, and in purification baths.
GROWING: Valerian is a perennial plant that grows to 3 feet tall. It prefers full sun, and average to rich well-drained soil. Root cuttings are best for propogation, and once the plants are established, they self-sow and spread by root runners. Valerian has a similar effect on cats as catnip, so you may need to protect your patch with chicken wire. Harvest roots for medicinal use in the fall of their second year.
Vervain
MEDICINAL: Vervain is used to treat the liver and diseases related to the liver, as well as painful or irregular menses. It will also help increase the flow of a mother's milk.
MAGICKAL: Vervain is used for cleansing incenses and baths. Buried in a field, it will make your crops abundant. It is burned to attract wealth, and hung above a bed to prevent nightmares, and above a baby's crib (out of reach!) to offer protection for the little one, and will enable the child to grow up with a love of learning and a happy outlook. Hung in the home it offers protection from negative spells, and is used as a pledge of mutual faith when given to a friend.
GROWING:Vervain is a perennial herb that grows 1-2 feet tall. It prefers full sun, average to rich soils, and is grown throughout temperate North America. It is rather short-lived, but self-sows. Harvest leaves and flower tops as the plants bloom.
Violet
MEDICINAL: Violet is effective in healing internal ulcers. It is used both internally and externally for pimples, abscesses, tumors, and swollen glands. It is useful in treating malignant growths, as well.
MAGICKAL: Violet in a pillow will help ease headaches away. Carrying the flowers brings a change in luck, and mixed with lavendar makes a powerful love sachet.
GROWING: Violets are a perennial, prefer partial shade, average to rich well-drained soil, and grow to 8 inches tall.
Vitex
MEDICINAL: Vitex is a normalizing herb for the reproductive system. It is most commonly used in treating infertility, PMS, menopausal problems, and hormonal imbalances. It is most effective when taken over a period of time, and in conjunction with other herbs used for the same purposes. It is also known as chaste tree fruit, or chaste berry.
Walnut
MEDICINAL: Walnut bark is used to treat dysentery and skin diseases. The nut is used to promote strength and weight gain. The hull of the nut is used to treat skin diseases, herpes, head and body lice, and internal parasites. Walnut leaf is used to treat eczema, hives, and boils.
MAGICKAL: The nut still in its shell is carried to promote fertility. To discover if a Witch is in your midst, legend has it that you should drop a walnut still in its shell into the lap of the person suspected, and if that person is truly a Witch, they will be unable to rise from a sitting position as long as the walnut is in their laps.
GROWING: Walnuts are trees that grow to 60 feet tall. They prefer full sun, deep and well-drained soil, and regular water. They grow well in areas such as the eastern and midwestern United States.
Wild Cherry
MEDICINAL: Wild Cherry Bark is a very good expectorant. It is therefore useful for all ilnesses that have related lung congestion. The bark is boiled down into a syrup, which is safe to use even for children.
GROWING: Wild Cherry grows throughout North America in moist areas, and along riverbanks. It is either a tall shrub or small tree, depending upon growing conditions of the area.
Wild Yam
MEDICINAL: Wild Yam is helpful to the liver and the endocrine system. It is also used in regulation of the female system, particularly during menopause and menstrual distress, as well as used in treating infertility. Used with chaste berry and dandelion it is an effective treatment for morning sickness.
GROWING:Usually found wild in the eastern half of North America, it is a perennial plant that is a low creeper, and occupies average to poor soils and full sun.
Willow
MEDICINAL: Willow works like aspirin. In fact, aspirin was derived from willow bark. It is also used to cleanse and heal eyes that are infected or inflamed. It is safe to use, and is mild on the stomach and leaves no after-effects.
MAGICKAL: Willow trees are planted near the home as a guard. Its branches have been used for the bindings on a witch's broom, and as healing wands. It is also used to bring the blessings of the moon into your life.
GROWING: Willows prefer damp, low spaces, as a long rivers and streams, or areas that receive regular water. They grow throughout North America. It grows to 70 feet or more.
Witch Hazel
MEDICINAL: Witch Hazel is used externally for insect bites, burns, bleeding wounds, hemorrhoids, and varicose veins. Internally it will stop bleeding from internal organs, treats bronchitis, flu, and coughs as well as promotes healing of stomach ulcers. It is often used as a mouthwash for conditions of the mouth and throat, and for bleeding gums.
MAGICKAL: The forked twigs of the Witch Hazel are used for divining. It will help heal a broken heart and cool passions when carried.
GROWING: Witch Hazel is a shrub or small tree that grows 5 - 15 feet. It ranges throughout the eastern half of North America. It prefers full sun, and average soils.
Wormwood
MEDICINAL: Wormwood is used for all problems within the digestive system, as well as liver and bladder ailments. It promotes menstruation and will help with menstrual cramps. Do not give to small children, and use only in very small quantities for very short periods of time, as the FDA considers this a poisonous plant.
MAGICKAL: Wormwood is burned to raise your spirits to a higher level, enabling easier divination and clairvoyance. Thrown on the fire at Samhain, it will protect from the spirits that roam that night.
GROWING: Wormwood grows mainly in temperate regions of the eastern portion of North America. It is a perennial shrub that reaches to 4 feet tall, and prefers full sun and average to poor soils.
Yarrow
MEDICINAL: Yarrow is used to stimulate and regulate the liver. It acts as a blood purifier and heals the glandular system. It has been used as a contraceptive, and as a part of diabetes treatment, as well as treating gum ailments and toothache. Also is used in formulas for treating colds, flus, and fevers. It arrests internal and external bleeding during childbirth. It is used to stop the bleeding of external wounds.Pregnant women should avoid this herb.
MAGICKAL: Since Yarrow has the ability to keep a couple together for 7 years, it is used in love sachets as well as a gift to give to newlyweds. When worn it wards off negativity, and if held in your hand it repels fear. Yarrow added to the bath protects from harm.
GROWING: Yarrow is a perennial, and its various varieties range from 8 inches to 3 feet tall. It prefers full sun, and average to poor dry soils.
Yellow Dock
MEDICINAL: Yellow Dock is a powerful blood purifier and astringent. It is used in treating all diseases of the blood and skin It is very high in iron, making it useful for treating anemia. It nourishes the spleen and liver, detoxifies the liver, and cleanses and enriches the blood.
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Monthly Moon
Phase Guide
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