I have always been interested in the use of herbs in magic, my own pet theory is
that they were first used in a medicinal manner, and from there evolved their magical
usage, and that the two are closely linked. I have several books on herbs, magical and medicinal, and would advise anyone planning on using herbs to do the same. NEVER use herbs without first checking that they are safe do do so, especially if making teas or draughts, even handling some can be dangerous. Having said that, there are so many uses for herbs in magic, that I am going to include some recipes on this page. ( credits are given where available) |
Broom - piece of broom is worn in a cap because its ancient reputation as a plant both useful to witches and against them. Was also used as a magic sleep enhancer and as a power in love spells. |
Cinquefoil (Latin: Potentilla) - meant "small and powerful". Hung in doorways to keep out evil spirits. A main ingredient in Witch potions and ointments. |
Lavender-has an old reputation as an anaphrodisiac- an inhibitor of sexual arousal.
It is used as a stimulant to psychic and visionary senses, and can be used for
magical dream work, and meditation. |
Mugwort - known alternatively as St. John's Herb and was considered to be the "Mother of Al Herbs." Some believed that St. John the Baptist wore a girdle of Mugwort in the forest where he lived. Was cured in the Midsummer bonfires and hung up over doorways to keep evil at bay. Also used to keep travelers from getting too weary. |
Rosemary - was dropped into coffins as a way of letting the dead know that you'd not forget them. Also very protective against physical injury and thunder/lightning. Could renew youth and help 'special' enterprises to grow and succeed. |
Sage - ancient reputation as a healing plant and thought to confer long life. Tradition says that if the plant lives or dies so will a business owner's livelihood thrive or fail. |
Cold Remedy Infusion An infusion is a tea. They can be made for drinking, put into baths, used for washing crystal balls, etc. The following infusion is used for drinking, but it can also be added to a bath. For the following infusion, use a good amount of herbs. You can omit any of the following herbs from this infusion that you wish. For example, if you don't have these symptoms or are allergic to some of these herbs. Also, using the following method you will have enough herbs for 4 cups of tea. You can do one of two things. You can make yourself a cup at a time and save the rest of the herbs in a bag or jar. Or, you can use this method. Make 4 cups of tea, put it in a thermos and place it somewhere close to your bed. Simple, easy, efficient. Ingredients: 1 tsp. angelica (colds and fevers) 1 tsp. vervain (coughs) 1 tsp. coltsfoot (headaches) 1 tsp. eyebrite (congestion) 1 tsp. passion flower (insomnia) 1 tsp. rose hips (high source of vitamin C) 1 tsp. echinacea (rids the body of bacterial and viral infections) Preparation: Enchant the herbs then crush them in mortar. Boil 5 cups of water. Pour water into a large bowl, add herbs and stir well. Steep for an hour, but stir the herbs every 15 minutes. At the end of the hour, strain infusion into a large microwavable container. Microwave infusion until it comes to a boil. Pour into a thermos that holds 4 cups. Note: You will have to use 5 cups of water to come out with 4 cups as the herbs will absorb 1 cup of water. Also, this tea is a little bitter and medicinal so add a lot of sugar or honey to it. |
As you can see this is a short list of commonally available herbs, in fact I rarely
use more than lavender, rosemary, mint, and mugwort, lavender and rosemary can
substitute for most herbs in magical work and to heat up a spell to give it
extra ooomph, i use ginger. |
Headache Remedy. Take mint and rub it in your hands. Cup your hands over your nose and breathe deep. Do this a few times and your headache will be gone. |
Lilac Ashes Pain Killer - Soak 1/2 teaspoon of dried willow bark in 2 cups cold water overnight. Bring to a boil and simmer for 20 minutes. Strain, cool, and bottle. Dosage is 1/4 cup, to be sipped slowly as needed for pain. It can be added to juices or teas if you wish. |
Sprain and Aching Muscles Treatment - Mix together 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup of linseed oil, and 4 tablespoons witch hazel. Use as a massage. |
Protection bottle- Small glass bottle Sea or rock salt Rosemary Small pieces of broken mirror. Place all the ingredients in the bottle and cork tightly, charge them in any way you choose, and carry in your purse or pocket as a protection charm. |
prosperity sachet- Mint A piece of silver Cinquefoil Basil A small bag sewn of green silk Add all the ingredients to the bag, charge as you prefer, and carry to attract money and luck |
Herbs and why I use them |