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Allspice
Proper name: Pimento officinalis
Folk Names: Eddo, Madere, Basheen, Kouroubaga
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Powers: Money, Luck, Healing
Medicinal Uses: Pimento is an aromatic stimulant and carminative to the gastro-intestinal
tract, resembling cloves in its action. It is employed chiefly as an addition to
tonics and purgatives and as a flavoring agent.
Magical Uses: Allspices is burned as an incense to attract money or luck, and is also
added to such mixtures. Allspices is also used to promote healing.
Basil
Proper name: Ocymum basilium
Folk Names: Alahaca, American Dittany,Our Herb‚St. Joseph's Wort, Sweet Basil,
Witches Herb, Njilika, Balanoi, Felsien
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Powers: Love, Exorcism, Wealth, Flying, Protection
Medicinal Uses: The infusion relieves gas and stomach pains. Reputedly abortive, it can
help expel the placenta. A warming herb, it is used for colds and flue, constipation,
vomiting, headaches and menstrual cramps. Steep two teaspoons per cup of water for
twenty minutes; take up to one and a half cups per day.
Magical Uses: Basil is used to mend lovers quarrels and in love spells. Basil attracts
money and brings good luck to a new home. Use it in rites of exorcism and in the ritual
bath. Sprinkle the powder over the heart area to promote fidelity. The scent brings
happiness to the home and will protect you in crowds.
Bay Leaves
Proper name: Laurus nobilis
Folk Names: Baie, Bay Laurel, Bay Tree, Daphne, Grecian Laurel, Laurel, Laurier d
Apollon, Laurier Saurce, Lorbeer, Noble Laurel, Roman Laurel, Sweet Bay
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Sun
Element: Fire
Powers: Protection, Psychic Powers, Healing, Purification, Strength
Medicinal Uses: The leaf and berry are used in salves for itching, sprains, bruises, skin
irritations, and rheumatic pain as a salve. The fruit and leaf are simmered until soft and
made into a poultice with honey for chest colds. Bay leaf and berry teas makes a bath
additive that helps the bladder, bowel, and female reproductive organs. Use two
tablespoons per cup and steep for forty five minutes; add to bath water.
Magical Uses: Bay leaves were used by the Delphic priestesses to induce a prophetic
trance. An herb of the sun, bay brings the light of summer into the darkest time of the
year. Carry the leaf or place it in the home to ward off illness and hexes.
Blessed Thistle
Proper name: Carbenia Benedicta
Folk Names: Holly Thistle
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Powers: Purification, Hex-breaking
Medicinal Uses: Blessed thistle was known to the ancients as a liver tonic. It strengthens
the memory, helps with depression, and is useful in migraine headache. Combine it with
peppermint, elder flowers, and ginger for colds, fevers, and backache. The leaf is used to
promote breast milk. It can be eaten raw in sandwiches and salads, or taken powdered in
wine or tea. Use two teaspoons per cup and steep for twenty minutes; Take a quarter cup
four times a day.
Homeopaths use this for nausea, left sided stomach pain, gallstones, surging of blood,
homesickness, intermittent fever, and enlarged liver, especially when eye symptoms are
present and there is a sensation of contraction in many parts.
Magical Uses: Blessed thistle is an herb of protection used in the ritual bath. It is also
used to counteract hexing. Thistle brings spiritual, physical and financial blessings. Carry
one to bring joy, energy vitality and protection. A shirt with thistle fibers woven into it will
protect the wearer from any evil spell. Thistles make men better lovers. The herb has
been used to make magical wants and to conjure or communicate with spirits.
Cinnamon
Proper name: Cinnamomum Zeylanicum
Folk Names: Sweet Wood, Ceylon Cinnamon
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Sun
Element: Fire
Deities: Venus, Aphrodite
Powers: Spirituality, Success, Healing, Power, Psychic Powers, Lust, Protection, Love
Medicinal Uses: Carminative, astringent, stimulant, antiseptic; more powerful as a local
than as a general stimulant; is prescribed in powder and infusion but usually combined
with other medicines. It stops vomiting, relieves flatulence, and given with chalk and
astringents is useful for diarrhea and hemorrhage of the womb.
Magical Uses: Cinnamon, when burned as an incense, raises high spiritual vibrations,
aids in healing, draws money, stimulates psychic powers and produces protective
vibrations, Cinnamon is also used in making sachets and infusions for these purposes.
Cloves
Proper name: Eugenia Carophyllus
Folk Names: Mykhet, Carenfil
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Jupiter
Element: Fire
Powers: Protection, Exorcism, Love, Money
Medicinal Uses: extremely powerful antiseptic and used for toothache. The shell and
lining of the shell contain the highest percentage of essential oils.
Magical Uses: Burned as an incense, cloves attract riches, drive away hostile negative
forces, produce spiritual vibrations, and purify the area. Cloves are burned as in incense
to stop others from gossiping about you. Worn or carried, cloves attract the opposite sex
and bring comfort to the bereaved.
Copal
Proper name: Bursera Odorata
Folk Names:
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Sun
Element: Fire
Powers: Love, Purification
Medicinal Uses: Vary according to species
Magical Uses: Added to love and purification incenses, especially in Mexico. A piece of
copal can represent the heart in poppets. There are over 300 copals available around the
world and perhaps a handful are commonly available in the US. All copals have a certain
light sweetness in common and are therefore often used in love spells. Each of the
commonly available copals has unique properties. The spiritual vibration of this resin is
extremely strong.
Dragon's Blood
Proper name: Daemonorops Draco
Folk Names: Blood, Blume, Calamus Draco, Draconis Resina, Sanguis Draconis,
Dragon's Blood Palm
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Powers: Love, Protection, Exorcism, Potency
Medicinal Uses: Inert
Magical Uses: This resin from a palm tree is burned to entice errant lovers to return. This
is usually done by women seated near an open window, looking outside, at night. A stick
of dragon's blood placed under the pillow or mattress will cure impotency. The dried resin
is a powerful protectant when carried, sprinkled around the house, or smoldered as an
incense. It will also drive away evil and negativity when burned. A pinch of dragon's blood
added to other incenses increases their potency and power.
Elder Flower
Proper name: Sambucus Canadensis
Folk Names: Alhuren, Battree, Boure Tree, Bour Tree, Eldrum, Ellhorn, Frau Holle, Old
Gal, Old Lady, Pipe Tree, Rob Elder, Sureau, Sweet Elder, Tree of Doom, Devil's Eye
Gender: Feminine
Planet: Venus
Element: Water
Deities: Holda, Venus
Powers: Exorcism, Protection, Healing, Prosperity, Sleep
Medicinal Uses: The black elder can be used as an insecticide in the garden or to repel
insects from the face and body. A simple infusion of the fresh leaf is made for this
purpose. It can also be poured down mouse and mole holes. The berries are used for
jam, wine, pies, and syrups. Medicinally, they help coughs, colic, diarrhea, sore throats,
asthma, and flue. A pinch of cinnamon makes the tea more warming. The leaves are
added to salves for skin conditions as a salve. The flowers are infused for fevers, eruptive
skin conditions such as measles, severe bronchial and lung problems. A classic flue
remedy is a mixture of elderflower, yarrow and peppermint teas. Keep the patient well
covered, as the flowers promote sweating. Use two teaspoons of the herbs per cup of
water, steep for twenty minutes, and take up to three cups a day.
Magical Uses: Panpipes are made of elder stems. A dryad Elder Mother is said to live
in the tree; she will haunt anyone who cuts down her wood. Stand or sleep under an
elder on Midsummer Eve to see the King of the Fairies and his retinue pass by. The
flowers are used in wish-fulfillment spells. The leaves, flowers and berries are strewn on
a person, place or thing to bless it.
Frankincense
Proper name: Boswellia Carterii
Folk Names: Incense, Oilbans, Oilbanium, Oilbanus
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Sun
Element: Fire
Deities: Ra, Baal
Powers: Protection, Exorcism, Spirituality
Medicinal Uses: A tree resin from southern Arabia, according to Pliny it is an antidote for
hemlock poisoning. Avicenna advocated it's use for tumors, fevers, vomiting, and
dysentery. Chinese herbalists use it in powder form and in teas for rheumatism and
menstrual pain. And externally as a wash for sores and bruises. The dose is three to six
grains in a glass of wine; or twenty drops of the tincture. Frankencense is highly
antiseptic and the scent is said to calm and clear the mind.
Magical Uses: Sacred to the Sun God Ra, frankincense is burned in rites of exorcism,
purification and protection. It is said to accelerate spiritual growth. Rosemary may be
used as a substitute.
Garlic
Proper name: Allium Sativum
Folk Names: Ajo (Spanish), Poor Man's Treacle, Stinkweed
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Deity: Hecate
Powers: Protection, Healing, Exorcism, Lust, Anti-Theft
Medicinal Uses: An extremely powerful topical and internal antiseptic. Syrup of Garlic is
an invaluable medicine for asthma, hoarseness, coughs, difficulty of breathing, and most
other disorders of the lungs, being of particular virtue in chronic bronchitis, on account of
its powers of promoting expectoration. It is made by pouring a quart of water, boiled hot,
upon a pound of the fresh root, cut into slices, and allowed to stand in a closed vessel for
twelve hours, sugar then being added to make it of the consistency of syrup. Vinegar and
honey greatly improve this syrup as a medicine. A little caraway and sweet fennel seed
bruised and boiled for a short time in the vinegar before it is added to the Garlic, will
cover the pungent smell of the latter.
Magical Uses: extremely potent as a protection herb and for absorbing diseases. Also
used to protect against theft.
Ginger
Proper name: Zingiber Officinale
Folk Names: African Ginger
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Powers: Love, Money, Success, Power
Medicinal Uses: Stimulant, carminative, given in dyspepsia and flatulent colic excellent
to add to bitter infusions; specially valuable in alcoholic gastritis; of use for diarrhea from
relaxed bowel where there is no inflammation. Ginger Tea is a hot infusion very useful for
stoppage of the menses due to cold.
Magical Uses: Eating ginger before performing spells will lend them power. Since you
have been heated up by the ginger. This is especially true of love spells in which ginger
is much-used. Whole ginger roots are planted and grown to attract money, or the
powdered root is sprinkled into pockets or onto money for this purpose. Ginger is also
used in success spells, or to ensure the success of a magical operation. In the Pacific the
Dobu islanders make used of ginger in their magic. They chew it and spit it at the seat
of an illness to cure it. And also spit chewed ginger at an oncoming storm, while at sea, to
halt it.
Hemp
Proper name: Cannibis Sativa
Folk Names: Chanvre, Gallowgass, Ganeb, Ganja, Grass, Hanf, Kif, Marijuana,
Neckweede, Tekrouri, Weed, Reefer
Gender: Feminine
Planet: Saturn
Element: Water
Powers: Healing, Love, Visions, Meditations
Medicinal Uses: The principal use of Hemp in medicine is for easing pain and inducing
sleep, and for a soothing influence in nervous disorders. It does not cause constipation
nor affect the appetite like opium. It is useful in neuralgia, gout, rheumatism, delirium
tremens, insanity, infantile convulsions, insomnia, etc.
The tincture helps parturition, and is used in senile catarrh, gonorrhea, menorrhagia,
chronic cystitis and all painful urinary affections. An infusion of the seed is useful in after
pains and prolapsus uteri. The resin may be combined with ointments, oils or chloroform
in inflammatory and neuralgic complaints.
The drug deteriorates rapidly and hence is very variable, so that it is best given in
ascending quantities to produce its effect. The deterioration is due to the oxidation of
cannabinol and it should be kept in hermetically-sealed containers.
The action is almost entirely on the higher nerve centers. It can produce an exhilarating
intoxication, with hallucinations, and is widely used in Eastern countries as an intoxicant,
hence its names 'leaf of delusion,' 'increaser of pleasure,' 'cementer of friendship,' etc.
The nature of its effect depends much on the nationality and temperament of the
individual. It is regarded as dangerous to sleep in a field of hemp owing to the aroma of
the plants.
Magical Uses: Love spells, divinitation
Juniper
Proper name: Juniperus Communes
Folk Names: Enebro, Gemeiner, Wachholder, Geneva, Gin Berry, Ginepro, Gin Plant
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Sun
Element: Fire
Powers: Protection, Anti-Theft, Love, Exorcism, Health
Medicinal Uses: Use the berry and young twig. Primarily a diuretic, the berries help
digestive problems, gastrointestinal inflammations, and rheumatism. The berries are
taken as a tea, jam or syrup in water, milk or herb tea. The try berries can be chewed;
three times a day is sufficient. Caution: Pregnant Women and people with weak kidneys
should not use the berry.
Magical Uses: Juniper when burned is a purifying and protective herb. Men use the
berries to increase potency. The herb enhances psychic powers and attracts love.
Knotweed
Proper name: Polygonum Aviculare
Folk Names: Armstrong,
Centinode,Cowgrass,Hogweed,Knotgrass,Nine Joints, Ninety Knot,Pigrush,Pigweed,Red Robin,Sparrow's Tongue,Swynel Grass
Gender: Feminine
Planet: Saturn
Element: Earth
Powers: Binding,Health
Magical Uses: To 'bind' woes and miseries, hold some knotweed in your hand.Pour your problems into the herb;see it absorbing them and then burn it.When carried,knotweed strengthens and protects the eyes.
Lavender
Proper name: Lavendula Officinate
Folk Names: Elf Leaf, Nard,Nardus, Spike
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mercury
Element: Air
Powers: Love, Protection, Sleep, Chastity, Longevity, Purification, Happiness, Peace
Medicinal Uses: The oil is used for intestinal gas, migraine, and dizziness. Being an
antiseptic, lavender is added to healing salves. A tea of the leaf allays nausea and
vomiting. Steep lavender blossoms in white wine for two weeks to make an anti-depressant
beverage. Lavender and rose petal vinegar is applied to the temples and
brow to ease headache. Lavender oil is added to footbaths, eases toothaches and
sprains, and is used as a rub for hysteria and palsy. Lavender essential oil is also a
supreme treatment for burns, almost instantly deadening pain and healing quickly with
almost no scarring.
Magical Uses: Lavender is strewn into bonfires at Midsummer as an offering to the Gods
and Goddesses. An ingredient of love spells, it's scent is said to attract men. Lavender in
the home brings peace, joy and healing.
Lemon
Proper name: Citrus Limon
Folk Names: Ulamula
Gender: Feminine
Planet: Moon
Element: Water
Powers: Longevity, Purification, Love, Friendship
Medicinal Uses: Lemon juice is probably the best of all antiscorbutics (excellent source
of Vitamin C), being almost a specific in scurvy. It is valuable as a cooling drink in fevers,
and for allaying thirst. The juice may be used in diaphoretic and diuretic draughts. It is
highly recommended in acute rheumatism, and is sometimes given to counteract narcotic
poisons, especially opium. Locally, it is a good astringent, whether as a gargle in sore
throat, in pruritis (severe itching related to urinary infection) of the scrotum, in uterine
hemorrhage after delivery, or as a lotion in sunburn. It is said to be the best cure for
severe, obstinate hiccough, and is helpful in jaundice (yellowing of the skin) and
palpitation of the heart. The decoction has been found to be a good antiperiodic
(preventing the re-occurrence of a symptom of a disease), useful as a substitute for
quinine in malarial conditions, or for reducing the temperature in typhoid. Pure essential
oil can irritate the skin but if taken internally is generally good for helping with
gastrointestinal issues.
Magical Uses: Lemon juice is mixed with water and used to wash and cleanse negative
psychic energies from items. The juice can also be added to a bath during the full moon
for purative effects. The dried flowers and peel are added to love sachets and mixtures,
and the leaves are used in lust teas. A lemon tree grown from a seed which is taken from
a lemon that you have consumed is a highly appropriate gift to a loved one, although
admittedly this is a long process. Lemon pie, served to a spouse, will help strengthen
fidelity, and a slice of fresh lemon placed beneath a visitor's chair ensures that your
friendship will last. Lemons may be used as poppets.
Lobelia
Proper name: Lobelia Inflata
Folk Names: Asthma Weed, Bladderpod, Gagroot, Indian Tobacco, Pukeweed
Gender: Feminine
Planet: Saturn
Element: Water
Powers: Halting Storms, Love
Medicinal Uses: Expectorant, diaphoretic, anti-asthmatic. It should not be employed as
an emetic. Some authorities attach great value to it
as an expectorant in bronchitis, others as a valuable counterirritant when combined with
other ingredients in ointment form. It is sometimes given in convulsive and inflammatory
disorders such as epilepsy, tetanus, diphtheria and tonsillitis. There is also difference of
opinion with regard to its narcotic properties. Where relaxation of the system is required,
as, for instance, to subdue spasm, Lobelia is invaluable. Relaxation can be counteracted
by the stimulating and tonic infusion of capsicum. It may be used as an enema.
Externally, the tincture can be used as a local application for sprains, bruises, or skin
diseases, alone, or in powder combined with an equal part of slippery elm bark and weak
lye-water in a poultice. The oil of Lobelia is valuable in tetanus. One drop of oil triturated
with one scruple of sugar, and divided into from 6 to 12 doses, is useful as an
expectorant, nauseant, sedative, and diaphoretic, when given every one or two hours.
Magical Uses: Stopping storms and attracting love.
Mace
Proper name: Myristica Fragrans
Folk Names: Masculine
Gender: Mercury
Planet: Air
Element: Psychic and Mental Powers
Powers:
Medicinal Uses: Both Mace and Nutmeg help digestion in stomach weakness, but if
used to excess may cause over-excitement. They increase circulation and body heat.
Magical Uses: the outer covering of nutmeg, is burned to increase psychic powers and is
carried to improve the intellect.
Mint
Proper name: Mentha spp.
Folk Names: Garden Mint
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mercury
Element: Air
Deities: Pluto, Hecate
Powers: Money, Lust Healing, Travel, Exorcism, Protection
Medicinal Uses: Use the above ground portions of the herb. An infusion can be used for
diarrhea and as an emmenagogue (bringing down the menses). It is a classic for
influenza, especially when mixed with elder flowers but be careful, as this remedy will
make you sweat, and you must take care to keep well covered with blankets and
woolens. Stomach flue is helped by mint, elderflower and yarrow combinations in a
standard infusion. Mint is generally helpful in stomach complaints but a strong infusion
will make the patient vomit. Mint tea eases colic and lifts depression. It relieves earaches
when the fresh juice or a few drops of the essential oil are placed in the ear. A few drops
of the oil in water, applied to a cloth, help burning and itching, heat prostration, and
sunburn. Apply it directly to an itchy skin condition or sunburn. For head prostration place
the cool formentation on the forehead and wrists. Try honey with an infusion to ease soar
throat. Caution: no more than two drops of essential oil should be taken at any time, and
no more than two cups a day of the above mixture. Larger doses can be toxic to the
kidneys. Mint clears the mind and can help in relieving headaches.
Magical Uses: Grow in the home as a protective herb. Place it on the alter when working
healing spells. Mint brings easy travel, attracts prosperity, and is placed in the wallet to
draw money
Mistletoe
Proper name: American Phoradendron Leucarpum, European Viscum Album
Folk Names: All Heal, Birdlime, Devil's Fuge, Donnerbesen, European Mistletoe, Golden
Bough, Holy Wood, Lignam Sanctae Crucis, Misseltoe, Thunderbesem, Witches Broom,
Wood of the Cross
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Sun
Element: Air
Deities: Apollo, Freya, Frigga, Venus, Odin
Powers: Protection, Love, Hunting, Fertility, Health, Exorcism
Medicinal Uses: Rich in phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and sulphur. Its proteins,
polysaccharides, and fat substances are strongly tumor-inhibiting. Tumor-inhibiting
bacteria have also been found in the plant. Mistletoe seems to increase killer cells (a
special sell in the immune system), increase cell-medicated cytotoxic activities, and
augment levels of granular lymphocytes.
Many nervous conditions such as convulsions, delirium, hysteria, neuralgia, urinary
disorders, and heart conditions have benefited from mistletoe. It has been used to temper
spasms of epilepsy. Mistletoe strengthens the heart and has been used as a heart tonic
in cases of typhoid fever. It strengthens the glandular system and has helped with
inflammation of the pancreas. It promotes hormonal balances when taken daily for more
than six months.
Mistletoes is recommended for used after a stroke or when hardening of the arteries is
suspected. It will stop pulmonary and intestinal bleeding caused by dysentery and
typhoid. It helps to lower high blood pressure and raise low blood pressure, and it has
been used to ease heavy menstrual flow, heart palpitations, hot flashes, and the anxiety
associated with menopause. The fresh juice has been said to increase fertility in barren
women.
Anthroposophical medicine has produced a remedy, Iscador, which is available from
anthroposophical physicians and pharmacies. Otherwise, one can take the dried leaf
powdered, or in a tea, or as an alcohol tincture. The green plant can be simmered as a
standard decoction. Mistletoe is especially sympathetic to complaints on the left side of
the body. Caution: The berries should not be used for internal consumption. They are
used in salves and washes for wounds.
Magical Uses: Not quite herb, not quite tree, beyond the limitation of classification, freed
from the restrictions of convention, and resembling a constellation of starts suspended in
midair from the bough of a sacred tree such is the spirit of this plant. It belongs to the
in-between times of dusk and dawn, or the extract interval between two seasons. It is the
gateway to something other.
Myrrh
Proper name: Commiphora Myrrha
Folk Names: Gum Myrrh Tree, Karan, Mirra Balsom Odendron
Gender: Feminine
Planet: Moon
Element: Water
Deities: Isis, Adonis, Ra, Marian
Powers: Protection, Exorcism, Healing Spirituality
Medicinal Uses: Astringent, healing. Tonic and stimulant. A direct emmenagogue, a
tonic in dyspepsia, an expectorant in the absence of feverish symptoms, a stimulant to
the mucous tissues, a stomachic carminative, exciting appetite and the flow of gastric
juice, and an astringent wash.
Magical Uses: Bured as an incense myrrh purifies the area, lifts the vibrations and
creates peace. However it is rarely burned alone; usually in conjunction with frankincense
or other resins. Myrrh increases the power of any incense to which it is added.
Myrrh is also included in healing incenses and sachets, and its smoke is used to
consecrate, purify, and bless objects such as amulets, talismans, charms, and magical
tools. Myrrh also aids meditation and contemplation. It is often added to sachets, usually
with frankincense.
Nutmeg
Proper name: Myristica Fragrans
Folk Names: Qoust, Sadhika, Wohpala, Bicuiba Acu
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Jupiter
Element: Fire
Powers: Luck, Money, Health, Fidelity
Medicinal Uses: Powdered nutmeg is rarely given alone, though it enters into the
composition of a number of medicines. The expressed oil is sometimes used externally
as a gentle stimulant. The properties of mace are identical to those of the nutmeg. Both
nutmeg and mace are used for flatulence and to correct the nausea arising from other
drugs, also to allay nausea and vomiting.
Magical Uses: Long carried as luck charms, and are strung with star anise and tonka
beans for a potent herbal necklace. Specifically, nutmegs are carried to ward off
rheumatism, cold sores, neuralgia, boils, and sties. Sprinkle onto green candles to bring
wealth. Offer in ceremony for fidelity.
Parsley
Proper name: Petroselinum Crispum, Petroselinum Sativum
Folk Names: Devil's Oatmeal, Percely, Persil, Petersilie, Petroselinum, Rock Parsley
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mercury
Element: Air
Deity: Persephone
Powers: Lust, Protection, Purification
Medicinal Uses: The second-year roots, the leaf and the seed are used. Parsley is a
diruretic and helpful for gravel and stone as well as for edema, jaundice, and kidney
problems. The root is the most powerful part. The oil of the seed has been used to bring
on menstruation. The seed, when decocted, has been used for intermittent fevers.
Parsely leaves (with violet leaf and figwort herb when possible) are used in poultices for
cancer. A parsley poultice will help insect bites, stings, and sore eyes. Parsley tea is used
for asthma and coughs.
Magical Uses: Generally used in funeral rites by the Greeks. When eaten, parsley
provokes lust and promotes fertility, but if you are in love don't cut parsley you'll cut
your love as well.
Thought the plant has associations with death and is often regarded as evil, the Romans
tucked a sprig into their togas every morning for protection. It is also placed on plates of
food to guard it from contamination.
Parsley is also used in purification baths, and those to stop all misfortune. A wreath of
parsley worn on the head prevents (or delays) inebriation.
Peppermint
Proper name: Mentha Piperita
Folk Names: Brandy Mint, Lammint
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mercury
Element: Fire
Deity: Pluto
Powers: Purification, Sleep, Love, Healing, Psychic Powers
Medicinal Uses: The characteristic anti-spasmodic action of the volatile oil is more
marked in this than in any other oil, and greatly adds to its power of relieving pains. From
its stimulating, stomachic and carminative properties, it is valuable in certain forms of
dyspepsia, being mostly used for flatulence and colic. It may also be employed for other
sudden pains and for cramp in the abdomen; wide use is made of Peppermint in cholera
and diarrhea. It is generally combined with other medicines when its stomachic effects
are required, being also employed with purgatives to prevent griping. Oil of Peppermint
allays sickness and nausea, and is much used to disguise the taste of unpalatable drugs,
as it imparts its aromatic characteristics to whatever prescription it enters into. It is used
as an infants' cordial. It is most commonly used as an infusion. Peppermint is good to
assist in raising internal heat and inducing perspiration, although its strength is soon
exhausted. In slight colds or early indications of disease, a free use of Peppermint tea
will, in most cases, effect a cure.
Magical Uses: Used in healing potions and mixtures. Peppermint also has a long history
in purification spells. The fresh leaves rubbed against the head are said to relieve
headaches. Peppermint worn at the wrist assures that you will not be ill. It's presence
raises vibrations of an area. Fresh peppermint on the alter will call good spirits to be
present and aid you in magic. Smelled, it compels on toward sleep, and placed beneath
the pillow it sometimes offers one glimpses of the future in dreams. It is rubbed against
furniture, walls and floorboards to cleanse them of evil and negativity. Pliny stated that
peppermint excites love, and so can be added to this type of mixture.
Peppermint is also used in travel spells. Its bright green leaves and crisp scent leads to
its use in money spells and in prosperity spells, the easiest of which is to place a few
leaves in the wallet or purse, or rub where your money is kept.
Rosemary
Proper name: Rosemarinus Officinalis
Folk Names: Compas Weed, Dew of the Sea, Elf Leaf, Guardrobe, Incensier, Libanotis,
Polar Plant, Sea Dew
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Sun
Element: Fire
Powers: Protection, Love, Lust, Mental Powers, Exorcism, Purification, Healing, Sleep
Medicinal Uses: The leaf and flowers are stimulating to the liver and digestion. For this
reason rosemary is a classic herb for migraine headache when associated with the liver
or stomach torpidity. Rosemary stimulates the circulation and slightly raises blood
pressure when taken as an infusion. Use rosemary in salves for eczema, wounds, and
sores. The oil benefits stomach and nerves. Steep the herb in a white wine for one week
and strain. Rub the rosemary wine into gouty and paralyzed limbs. Taken internally, the
wine quiets the heart and stimulates the kidneys, brain, and nervous system. Rosemary
tea relieves depression. Rosemary and coltsfoot are smoked as herbal tobacco to relieve
asthma and lung conditions. Caution: when used as an infusion, the dose should not
exceed one cup per day. Overdose can cause fatal poisoning.
Magical Uses: As an herb of purification, rosemary can be a substitute for frankincense.
Rosemary (sometimes in conjunction with Juniper berries is burned for protection against
disease. Place in books and drawers to repel moths.
Sage
Proper name: Salvia Officinalis
Folk Names: Garden Sage, Red Sage, Sawge
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Jupiter
Element: Air
Powers: Immortality, Longevity, Wisdom, Protection, Wishes
Medicinal Uses: Sages is a drying agent for the body. The tea of the leaf will dry up night
sweats, breast milk, and mucus congestion. It benefits the nerves and minstrel cycle as
well. Being astringent, it helps with diarrhea. Use it as a sore throat gargle and as a
poultice for sores and stings.
Magical Uses: Tradition holds that those who eat sage become immortal both in wisdom
and in years. Sage is used in wish manifestations, healing spells and to attract money.
Sandalwood
Proper name: Santalum Album
Folk Names: Sandal, Santal, White Sandalwood, White Saunders, Yellow Sandalwood
Gender: Feminine
Planet: Moon
Element: Water
Powers: Protection, Wishes, Healing, Exorcism Spirituality
Medicinal Uses: The fragrant heartwood is a classic for bladder infections. It is taken to
help in the passing of stones, in kidney inflammations, and in prostatitis. The oil is cooling
to the body and useful for fevers and infections when used as a massage. The scent is
calming to the mind. Sandalwood has been used internally for chronic bronchitis and to
treat gonorrhea and urethral discharge that results. Use as a decoction or tincture. It's
also used homeopathically for aching in the kidneys.
Magical Uses: Sandalwood oil placed on the forehead aids in focusing the mind. The
scent opens the highest spiritual centers and so makes an appropriate incense for rituals,
exorcisms, and healings. The powdered wood is strewn to the directions as an offering to
the fire to bring protection and consecration to any ceremony. Mix it with lavender to
enhance contact with the spiritual world. Mix it with frankincense for the highest spiritual
octave.The scents of frankincense and sandalwood have some of the highest
vibrations inherent in any plant. They will resonate with aspects of ourselves or with the
Devic/Angelic beings of the highest order. Rose is another herb used with that level of
frequency, thus attracting or eliciting the highest spiritual vibrations from within ourselves
and the cosmos.
Slippery Elm
Proper name: Ulmus Fulva
Folk Names: Indian Elm, Moose Elm, Red Elm
Gender: Feminine
Planet: Saturn
Element: Air
Powers: Halts Gossip
Medicinal Uses: Used externally in poultices for wounds and inflammations. As an
infusion, it is used for sore throats, bronchitis, diarrhea, urinary problems, and dysentery.
It is incorporated into suppositories, enemas, and douches because of its soothing
nature. It tends to bunch when mixed with water. Add only small amounts at a time if
using powdered slippery elm.
Magical Uses: Used to stop gossip and slander. Make a charm to be worn about the
neck of a child to help with learning speech and to be a persuasive speaker later in life.
Thyme
Proper name: Thymus Vulgaris
Folk Names: Common Thyme, Garden Thyme
Gender: Feminine
Planet: Venus
Element: Water
Powers: Health, Healing, Sleep, Psychic Powers, Love, Purification, Courage
Medicinal Uses: Use above ground portions of the herb. Thyme is an excellent lung
cleanser. Use it to dry up and clear out moist phlegm and treat whooping cough. It makes
a good tea for the mother after childbirth, as it helps expel the placenta. A natural
antiseptic, thyme is often used in salves for wounds, swellings, sciatica, and failing eyes.
The tea relieves gas and colic.
Magical Uses: Thyme is burned in incense to purify an area. It is worn or added to the
ritual cup to aid in communing with the deceased. A place where wild thyme grows will be
a particularly powerful energy center on the earth. It is also said that carrying thyme will
help see into the 'otherworld'.
Tobacco
Proper name: Nicotiana
Folk Names: Tabacca, Tabak, Taaba
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Powers: Healing, Purification
Medicinal Uses: Although it is commonly smoked, it is a highly poisonous plant. The
alkaloid nicotine is a virulent poison producing great disturbance in the digestive and
circulatory organs. It innervates the heart, causing palpitation and cardiac irregularities
and vascular contraction, and is considered one of the causes of arterial degeneration.
Nicotine is very like coniine and lobeline in its pharmacological action, and the pyridines
in the smoke modify very slightly its action. Tobacco was once used as a relaxant, but is
no longer employed except occasionally in chronic asthma. Its active principle is readily
absorbed by the skin, and serious, even fatal, poisoning, from a too free application of it
to the surface of the skin has resulted. The smoke acts on the brain, causing nausea,
vomiting and drowsiness. Medicinally it is used as a sedative, diuretic, expectorant,
discutient, and sialagogue, and internally only as an emetic, when all other emetics fail.
The smoke injected into the rectum or the leaf rolled into a suppository has been
beneficial in strangulated hernia, also for obstinate constipation, due to spasm of the
bowels, also for retention of urine, spasmodic urethral stricture, hysterical convulsions,
worms, and in spasms caused by lead, for croup, and inflammation of the peritoneum, to
produce evacuation of the bowels. The leaves in combination with the leaves of
belladonna or stramonium make an excellent application for obstinate ulcers, painful
tremors and spasmodic affections. Externally nicotine is an antiseptic. It is eliminated
partly by the lungs, but chiefly in the urine, the secretion of which it increases. Formerly
Tobacco in the form of an enema of the leaves was used to relax muscular spasms, to
facilitate the reduction of dislocations. A pipe smoked after breakfast assists the action of
the bowels.
Magical Uses: Held sacred by several tribes of Native Americans. It is used to produce
visions and to communicate with the spirits. Burning tobacco as an incense purifies the
area of all negativity and spirits (both good and bad), and to cure earaches tobacco
smoke is blown into the ear. Tobacco is a magical substitute for sulphur , as well as
datura and nightshade, both of which are related to tobacco.
Vervain
Proper name: Verbena Officinalis
Folk Names: Brittanica, Enchanter's Plant, Herba Sacra, Herb of Enchantment, Herb of
Grace, Herb of the Cross, Holy Herb, Juno's Tears, Pigeon's Grass, Pigeonwood,
Simpler's Joy, Van-Van, Verbena, Vervan
Gender: Feminine
Planet: Venus
Element: Earth
Deities: Kerridwin, Mars, Venus, Aradia, Isis, Juniper, Thor, Juno
Powers: Love, Protection, Purification, Peace, Money, Youth, Chastity, Sleep, Healing
Medicinal Uses: Vervain is renowned for its ability to purge gravel from the bladder. An
infusion is used to increase breast milk and is helpful in lowering fever, especially of the
intermittent type. It will benefit eczema and other skin eruptions, and it is a kidney and
liver cleanser. Jaundice, whooping cough, edema, mastitis, and headaches fall under its
sphere.
Externally it is used in poultices for ear infections, rheumatism and wounds.
Vervain is an emmenagogue and soothes the nerves. It is reputed to have aphrodisiac
properties. It is a powerful lymphatic detoxifier and has a cleansing effect on the female
organs. Blue Vervain (the American variety) is a natural tranquilizer and is helpful with colds and
fevers, especially when the upper respiratory tract is involved. It will eliminate intestional
worms and is used externally for wounds. It is distinguished from the European variety by
its deeper blue flowers and denser, bristly flower spikes. It is also used as an infusion,
tincture or poultice. Homeopathically it's used as a cure for poison oak.
Magical Uses: This is a profoundly magical herb belonging to the sphere of Venus.
Roman priests and priestesses used it as an alter plant. Vervain is most potent when
picked at the rising of the Dog Star, at the dark of the moon, just before flowering. The
spiritual vibration of this plant is on par with that of Frankincense and Myrrh.
Wormwood
Proper name: Artemisia Absinthium
Folk Names: Absinthe, Old Woman, Crown for a King, Madderwort, Wormot
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Deities: Iris, Diana, Artemis
Powers: Psychic Powers, Protection, Love, Calling Spirits
Medicinal Uses: The leaves and flowers are used in a light infusion to help digestion,
flatulence, and heartburn. Wormwood improves circulation and stimulates the liver. An
infusion is said to help relieve labor pains. A formentation of the leaves and flowers
soothes bruises and sprains. The oil relieves arthritis. Caution: The oil is for external use
only. Prolonged used of wormwood can lead to nerve damage.
Magical Uses: Burn as an incense to increase psychic powers. Burned in a graveyard, it
is used to summon the spirits of the departed. Sometimes it is mixed with sandalwood for
this purpose.
The information presented in this document is a combination of information listed in A Druids
Herbal, Scott Cunningham's Encyclopedia and information listed on Botanical.com
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