How to make a poultice for wounds

Hey guys!!

so as many of you may know, I stabbed my hand last night whilst making a wand. -_- Next time, I should listen to my inner voice aka my spirit guide, because the whole time I was thinking, "I should put some gloves on."
What can I say, I'm stubborn. And let this be a lesson to all of you, being stubborn=pain.

Anyways, my wound went all the way to/through muscle so I cannot move my thumb very much without being in EXTREME pain.

No worries though, I already got my tetanus shot a few weeks ago (funny how life works huh?) so I'm not at risk for any tetanus, and I'm keeping a close eye out for blood poisoning.

Now lets move on to the tutorial.

Let me start by saying, it is so important you make sure there are no pesticides on  the plants. You are running a HUGE risk of poisoning if pesticides have been sprayed. Its also a good idea to wash the plants before using them.

Also, although it is of the earth, there still is a chance for you to be allergic to the plant. If you know of any plant or pollen allergies, please just use some anti bacterial soap and whatever a doctor gives you.

Continuing, in no way shape or form am I guaranteeing that this will work for you. I've used daisies in the past for a wound and it worked wonderfully. This is my first time using ribwort, so hopefully it will be equally as awesome.

Here is what you need:
A mortar and pestle- I suggest ceramic.
wild daisies-I say wild because the kind you buy in a store are most likely guaranteed to have pesticides.
ribwort
scissors
water
bandage


So take your daisies and ribwort and cut them up. Put the cuttings into the mortar.
drip some water into the mixture-use a little, you can add more later.
use the pestle to grind all the goodness up.
when its to a "paste"like consistency youre done.

Put the mixture on your wound, cover with a bandage. ta-da done.

Leave the mixture on for a little while and afterwards you should see an improvement in the color of the wound (should be less redness). If not, thats ok!! Just keep changing the mixture!

Here are some handy dandy facts about daisies and ribwort.
 Ribwort Plantain  makes an effective treatment for wound bleeding. It contains epidermal growth factor, stimulating the repair of damaged tissue. Leaves extract has antibacterial properties. (plus many many other wonderful things!)

Its external use, as a poultice or addition to bath, can help in cases of wound healing, rashes, wounds and skin inflammations.  
(again, it does so much more than just this!)


here's a video I made if you want to watch and follow along!


http://youtu.be/omn4KhpHdc8

WitchCrafts-Runes

Hey guys!
This WitchCraft will be runes!

There are TONS of ways to make runes, from pieces of cardboard to marbles all the way to the harder handcrafted ways such as wood and stone.

For the easiest you will just need:
Cardboard
scissors
a marker

Cut the cardboard into squares or circles..really any shape you want. Then draw the runes on the cardboard. DONE!!

The second way is to use  glass marbles you can find at the dollar tree.  After that all you need is a marker and again just draw the rune on. DONE!

The third way, which requires a bit more work, is a salt dough recipe. Here it is:
1 cup salt

2 cups all purpose flour

1 cup luke warm water

Preheat oven to about 275 and cook for around 20 minutes, or until the dough turns golden. **this is an estimate depending on your oven!** keep an eye on it, you dont want it to burn or you know catch on fire.

Just roll them into little balls, flatten them so they’re..well.. flat. Bake them and when they have cooled draw the runes on. DONE!

The fourth way is great if you are a water sign or you have an affinity for water! Use clam shells or cowry shells. I suggest these because they have two sides, unlike say olive shells.
Anyways, take your shell and on one side draw the rune and DONE!

these last two ways are a little bit more complex.
For the wooden runes you will need:
a branch
a coping saw
a wood burner (you can substitute this for paint or a marker)
wood stain*optional

Cut the branch into pieces-carefully-with the coping saw.
use your wood burner to burn the runes into the wood. OR you can substitute this step and just paint or draw the rune on.
After youre done drawing the runes on, stain them. This is optional. I like the look of them stained as well as the natural look!

This last way is the hardest of all.
You will need:
stones
a dremel tool
diamond coated blades
paint

It is a must to have diamond coated blades, the regular blades are not strong enough to cut through the rock and will simply shatter.
 PLEASE TAKE ALL NECESSARY PRECAUTIONS TO MAKE SURE YOU DON’T GET HURT!

All you do is cut the runes into the stones-VERY CAREFULLY the diamond blade is EXTREMELY sharp! You don’t want to cut any fingers off!

When you’re done just fill the groves with paint and ta-da DONE!


here is a video where I talk about different types of runes.
in a later video I will discuss how to read the runes.
 

http://youtu.be/id5bsJ29hCg

Familiars

Many witches choose to share their lives with familiars — spiritually attuned creatures to whom the witch turns for insights into nature's lessons, and for help in working magick. Black cats, of course, are commonly associated with witches, but dogs, birds, rabbits, and, yes, even toads can fulfill the role of familiar. In the Harry Potter stories, Harry purchases an owl as his familiar while his poorer friend must be satisfied with a rat. In actuality, the witch doesn't necessarily choose his familiar, so much as the animal and the witch seem to discover and bond with each other.

No matter what kind of creature it might be, the familiar is no mere pet. Rather, the animal is a respected partner and companion, who reveals truths and offers the characteristics inherent to its nature to the witch for magickal purposes. Birds, for instance, often carry messages between humans or between the earth and the spirit world.

According to global lore, nearly any creature can become a familiar. In Lapp, Finnish, and Norwegian stories, for example, flies are familiars. Amphibians — specifically, sea snakes — similarly show up in New He brides stories. And among the Zulu, familiars can be made from reactivated animal corpses.

If a witch seeks a familiar, he usually puts out a call through a spell or ritual. This ritual typically takes place outdoors, near the home. The witch begins by creating sacred space, then he meditates, prays, and places the request in the hands of nature. During the meditation the witch visualizes his own living space, so the right creature can easily find its way to the door.

Cats, for instance, are notorious for showing up unexpectedly. But sometimes you might have to seek out your familiar. One witch tells how her feline familiar called to her psychically — she actually heard the words “Come to the animal shelter.” The command was so clear and insistent that she immediately drove to the local shelter where the cat was waiting for her. Trust your intuition. You'll know your familiar instantly when you encounter him or her.

Because animals tend to be more sensitive than humans in many ways, your familiar can provide signals and guidance, especially regarding other people. Observe your pet's reactions to visitors and friends — Fluffy or Fido could give you information you might not have picked up on your own. Animals are demonstrably good at predicting earth and weather changes, too, and they often sense impending danger long before a human could. They can also see things people can't, including nonphysical beings such as faeries and ghosts.

Candles: color and meaning

This candle color chart is to be used as a guide or a reference ONLY. This list is one of many. No list is more right or wrong than any other. Whatever color guide you choose to use is your personal preference. FOR EXAMPLE: Green may NOT represent money to you, perhaps gold or silver represents money in your opinion. If that is the case then those are the colors you should use in your candle magick. You must always feel comfortable with your magickal workings. DO NOT feel pressured to follow a list or anothers opinion. Follow your heart and what makes you comfortable.White: truth, purityRed: love, health, sex, strengthGreen: money, luck, fertilityBlack: discord, evil, negativity, confusionBrown: neutrality, uncertainty, hesitationPink: love, morality, honorPurple: power, business progress, ambitionOrange: attraction, stimulationGreenish Yellow: jealousy, anger, discordGray: neutrality, stalemate, negativityLight Blue: tranquility, patience, healthDark Blue: depression, changeabilityGreen:Abundance, growth, money, success, wealth, physical healing, health, marriage, fertility, employment, balance, Stimulates growth, healing, financial success, good luck, new job, good harvest, nature appreciation, love.Yellow:Intellect, wisdom and honor, action, inspiration and creativity, studying and intelligence, concentration, memory, logic, learning, attraction, confidence, Mental powers, intellect, inspiration, concentration, retention of memory, energy, cheerfulness, sunny disposition, changes, endurance, stability and security.Yellow strengthens the imagination and concentration in a ritual. Is used in rituals in which the trust of a person is gained or in which one wants to convince someone.Red:Energy, vitality, and strength, health, passion, sex, love, protection, fire, fertility, fast action, strength, potency, lust, blood, Physical love and passion, courage, warmth, energy, attraction, magnetism, desire, action, physical strength, power, willpower.Strengthens magnetism in a ritual, creates Ram and Scorpio energies.White:The Balance of all colors: Spiritual enlightenment, cleansing, clairvoyance, healing, truth-seeking, purity, innocence, clarity and unity, Dawn, purification, peace, truth, protection, spirituality, General work, cleansing, repels negativity; use to bring peace, spiritual strength, truth, purity; heals emotions, and provides protection.Note: White can be used in place of any other candle color and is suitable for any ritual.Pink:Devotion, love, tenderness and faith, friendship, romance, honor, spiritual healing, caring, affection, forming partnerships, peace, emotional healing, Universal love, purest form of love, love that is unconditional, spiritual love without sex connotation, raises vibrations, sensitivity, healing.Designed to attract attention and achieve a purpose in rituals. The color of femininity, Honor, Pleasantness – enhances joyful and lively conversation.Gold:Enlightenment, protection, success, wealth, money, masculinity, playfulness, luck, divination, victory.Enhances communication and attracts the power of cosmic influences; Useful in rituals which are designed to gain fortune or moneyLavender:Mother consciousness, manifestation and selflessness, Spirituality, compassion, understanding, inspiration, make contact with Higher-Self, attract spiritual assistance, very calming.Blue:Communication, truth, peace, calm, loosing weight, wisdom, understanding, protection, harmony, inspiration, truth, patience, health and happiness, luck, communication, loyalty, peaceful, cooling, contentment, healing, idealism, harmony, devotion, meditation,Orange:Cleanses negative attitudes, situations and places, Happiness, business deals, attracting good things, success, career, goals, stimulation, attraction, power, luck, sudden changes, Warmth, energy building, enthusiasm, attracts success and prosperity, emotional healing, attracts friends, courage and ambition.Brown:Earth, a balanced color. Rituals for material gain, eliminates indecisiveness, furthers powers of concentration, learning, telepathy. Expands financial success, finds lost items. Material prosperity, Home, friendships, balance, animal magic, earth magic, concentration and studying, wealth, success, intuition, psychic powers and ESP. Protecting pets, Said to help find lost items.Purple:Use with white candle to neutralize effects of karma and ego. Ancient wisdom, the third eye, psychic powers, meditation, spirituality, success, confidence, hidden knowledge, protection, divination, All forms of expansion, expands what you already have, spiritual protection, power, wisdom, healing, recognition, enhances psychic ability, Recognition in work, contact with spirit world.Rose:Compassion for self and others, higher mystical powers, humor, Love, romance, opening the heart, forgiveness, compassion, healing, joy, creativity, endurance, strength, stability and security.Peach:restoration and rejuvenationViolet:Strength, Success, Idealism, psychic revelation; Ideal for rituals which are designed to secure Ambition, Independence and financial success or to establish contact with the other, spiritual world; Enhances Neptune energy.Ivory:(beige): neutrality, balance and harmlessnessBlack:Burning black with any other color dissolves negative energies! Protection, hex-breaking, reversing, banishing, destroying evil or negativity, binding, and repelling. Also used for healing very powerful illnesses.Silver: (Light Grey)Victory, Stability, meditation, DevelopingPsychic Ability, Removal of Negative Power, Repelling Destruction,Cancellation, Neutrality, Stalemate.Silver is primarily associated with female deities.Colors and Their MeaningsWhite: A balance of all colors; Spiritual enlightenment, cleansing, clairvoyance, healing, truth seeking; Rituals involving lunar energy' May be substituted for any color candle.Yellow: Activity, Creativity, unity; brings power of concentration and imagination to a ritual; use in rituals where you wish to gain another’s confidence or persuade someone, or in rituals that require solar energy.Gold: Fosters understanding and attracts the powers of cosmic influences; beneficial in rituals intended to bring about fast luck or money, or in rituals needing solar energy.Orange: Creativity, ability to speak one's mind, ambition, career matters and the Law, self-confidence. Solar color and also stands for Leo.Pink: Promotes romance, friendship; standard color for rituals to draw affections; a color of femininity, honor, service, brings friendly, lively conversation to the dinner table.Red: Health, passion, love, fertility, strength, courage, will power; increases magnetism in rituals; draws Aries and Scorpio energy.Silver: Removes negativity and encourages stability; helps develop psychic abilities; attracts the influence of the Mother Goddess.Purple: Power, success, idealism, psychic manifestations; ideals for rituals to secure ambitions, independence, financial rewards, or to make contact with the spiritual other world; increases Neptune energy.Magenta: Combination of red and violet that oscillates on a high frequency; energizes rituals where immediate action and high levels of power or spiritual healing are required.Brown: Earthly, balanced color; for rituals of materiel increase; eliminates indecisiveness; improves powers of concentration, study, telepathy; increases financial success; locates objects that have been lost.Indigo: Color of inertia; stops situations or people; use in rituals that require a deep meditational state; or in rituals that demand Saturn energy.Royal Blue: Promotes laughter and joviality; color or loyalty; use to attract Jupiter energy, or whenever an influence needs to be increased.Light Blue: Spiritual color; helpful in devotional or inspirational meditations; brings peace and tranquillity to the home; radiates Aquarius energy; employ where a situation must be synthesized.Blue: Primary spiritual color; for rituals to obtain wisdom, harmony, inner light, or peace; confers truth and guidance.Emerald Green: Important component in Venusian rituals; attracts love, social delights, and fertility.Dark Green: Color of ambition, greed, and jealousy; counteracts these influences in a ritual.Green: Promotes prosperity, fertility, success; stimulates rituals for good luck, money, harmony, and rejuvenation.Grey: Neutral color useful when pondering complex issues during meditation; in magic, this color often sparks confusion; it also negates or neutralizes a negative influence.Black: Opens up the deeper levels of the unconscious; use in rituals to induce a deep meditational state, or to banish evil or negativity as in un-crossing rituals; attracts Saturn energy.COLORS-ELEMENTS-MEANINGSRED-FIRE:Energy, Strength, Passion, Courage, Career Goals, Fast Action, Lust, Blood of the Moon, Vibrancy, Driving Force, Love, Survival,Love, Passion, Emotion, Courage, Sex, Lust, Strength, Power, Anger, Fire, EnergyORANGE:Business Goals, Property Deals, Ambition, Career Goals, General Success, Justice, Legal Matters, Selling, Action, Attraction, Encouragement, Stimulation, Quick manifestation, Fire, CourageCOPPER:Passion, Money Goals, Professional Growth, Fertility in Business, Career ManeuversGOLD-GOD:Wealth, God, Promote Winning, Safety and Power of the Male, Happiness, Playful Humor, The "masculine" Aspects of the Divine, the Sun, Prosperity and AbundanceYELLOW:The Sun, Intelligence, Accelerated Learning, Memory, Logical Imagination, Breaking Mental Blocks, Selling Yourself, Attraction, Charm, Confidence, Happiness, Joy, Abundance, Money, HealthPINK:Romantic Love, Planetary Good Will, Healing of Emotions, Peace, Affection, Romance, Partnerships of Emotional Maturity, Caring, Nurturing, Honor, Love, Romance, Compassion, Femininity, Friendship, Sexual AttractionGREEN-EARTH:Earth Mother, Physical Healing, Monetary Success, Abundance, Fertility, Tree and Plant Magick, Growth, Personal Goals, Fertility, Prosperity, Love, Growth, Luck, Healing, Purifying, HappinessBLUE-WATER:Good Fortune, Opening Blocked Communication, Wisdom, Protection, Spiritual Inspiration, Calm, Reassurance, Gently Moving, Creativity, Success, Material/Earthly Destiny, Patience, Communication, Clarity, WisdomPURPLE:Influencing People in High Places, Third Eye, Psychic Ability, Spiritual Power, Self Assurance, Hidden Knowledge, Spirituality and Spiritual destiny, Power, Peace, Royalty, ConcentrationSILVER-GODDESS:Telepathy, Clairvoyance, Clairaudience, Psychometry, Intuition, Dreams, Astral Energies, Female Power, Communication, The Goddess or Lady of the Moon, Prosperity and Abundance, Clairvoyance, Astral Traveling.BROWN:Influence Friendships, Special Favors, To Dispel Sorrow, Grounding, For Growing Plants and GardensBLACK:Protection, Repelling Negativity, Binding, Shape shifting, Returning Bad Vibes, The Void, Pure Potential, Protection,Negates All Colors and Energies, InvocationWHITE-AIR:Spirituality, The Goddess, Peace, Higher Self, Purity, Virginity (as in the woman's mind is owned by no man), a substitute for any other color, Purity and Oneness, Contains and reflects All colors, Peace, Purifying, Healing

Incense and meanings

About Incense Meanings

If there is anything that dates back thousands of years and is yet modern and contemporary, it is incense. These versatile biotic substances not only add fragrance to your life, but also heal your mind and body in a delightful manner. Incense meanings can be best understood by studying their history and the effects they have had on people of all ages. Below, we will also describe incense and the different meanings to which it is burned.

History

It is believed that incense was first used in ancient China as long back as the Neolithic times. Its popularity continued as people found out more about incense meanings and their uses. These were produced from plants and herbs like cinnamon, sandalwood or cassia and used during religious ceremonies.

For the ancient Egyptians incense meanings had a new dimension. They found these efficacious to ward off evil spirits and also counter unpleasant odours.

In the Indus valley Civilisation, people used essential oils along with herbs to produce incense.

The Babylonians, Greeks, Romans and many other ancient civilisations had their own incense meanings and purposes. In the medieval churches, incense was used to mask the scent of tired and unwashed pilgrims who congregated during various occasions. Large incense burners were used for this purpose; these were either kept on stands or hung from ceilings.

Materials used

Although the words incense and fragrance are used synonymously, incense actually refers to the material that goes into its production, not the aroma itself.

If you have to understand incense meanings, you need to know about the materials that go into making it. Frankincense, Patchouli, Balsam, Sandalwood, Myrrh and Labdanum are some of the most commonly used materials in incense.

Locally available herbs and roots were mostly used in incense preparation. But with the passage of time and advent of civilisations, sage and cedar from North America or sandalwood and cinnamon from India migrated to all parts of the world and captured the hearts of millions. This popularity led to the emergence of new incense trade routes.

Effects

For different users, incense has differing meanings. This is related to the effects they create on the user and the ambience.

People have been known to burn African violet, chamomile or sandalwood to create an ambience of a sacred sanctuary within their house.

Lavender, lemon, lilac and pine are known for their ability to bring a spiritual well being and inner peace in individuals.

To some individuals, incense is a medium through which courage, strength and confidence is infused in the soul. Rose, peppermint, musk, gardenia and frankincense are some such incense.

Traditionally, allspice, aloes, basil, cedar wood, sage, poppy, oak moss, nutmeg and mint have been believed to be harbingers of prosperity and wealth.

In many of the ancient civilisations, incense had been synonymous with powers to ward off evil spirits and negative forces and create a protective wrap around homes. Bergamot, carnation, eucalyptus, juniper, frankincense and ginseng root are some of them.

One person wrote:

Cleansing: Cedar, Clove, Dragon's Blood, Elmi, Frankincense, Gold Copal, Hyssop, Iris, Juniper, Laurel, Lavender, Pine, Rosemary, Sage, Sweet Grass, White Sage.

Creativity: Benzoin, Cassia, Clove, Dream Herb, Elemi, Frankincense, Gold Copal, Hops, Juniper, Mastic, Star Anise, sweet grass.

Dreams: Aloeswood, Dream Herb, Hops, Laurel, Mastic, Mugwort, Sage.

Meditation and Prayer: Aloe, Aloeswood, Benzoin, Black Copal, Cedar, Dammar, Dragon's Blood, Elemi, Frankincense, Galbanum, Juniper, Laurel, Mastic, Myrrh, Sandalwood, Sandarac, Spikenard, Storax, Balsam.

Relaxation: Aloe, Aloewood, Amber, Anise, Benzoin, Black Copal, Cinnamon, Galbanum, Gold Copal, Marjoram, Sandalwood, Spikenard, Storax Balsam, Sweet Grass, Vetiver.

Sensuality. Balsam, Benzoin, Black Copal, Cassia, Clove, Iris, Musk seeds, Myrrh, Patchouli, Propolis, Rose, Sandalwood, Spikenard, Vanilla, Vetiver.

Sleep. Aloe, Amber, Cinnamon, Dream Herb, Galbanum, Myrrh Saffron, Sandalwood, Spikenard.

Strengthening. Amber, Calamus, Cedar, Clove, Dragon's Blood, Elemi, Frankincense, Galangal, Iris, Juniper, Laurel, Lavendar, Mugwort, Pine, Rose, Rhododendron, Star Anise, Sweet Grass, Tyhme.

Source: http://www.paganspace.net/forum/topics/lists-of-incense-and-their

Like to know more? There's quite a comprehensive list here.

Incense is a rejuvenator and a healer. Incense meanings, as you have already found out, differ from one user to another. Understand your own incense, get it from a reliable store and feel its magical touch on your heart and soul

Common Symbols.

Wiccans Pagans and Witches of all pasts and traditions use symbols for many things such as rituals, spells, ceremonies and in everyday life. There are many different symbols with many different meanings. Each symbol has a basic meaning but they all mean different thins and represent different feelings and actions to different people.

This is not a full list but a list of common symbols.

The five-pointed star within a circle is the most common Pagan symbol, and it is typically used to identify oneself as a Pagan or Wiccan. The five points represent the 4 elements plus the spirit, and the circle connects them all. A five-pointed star without the circle is sometimes called a pentagram, rather than a pentacle. Based on numerology, the five points means the pentacle symbolizes the Earth element and can be used as an Earth symbol on an altar.

The inverted (or upside down) pentacle is a symbol of some reputation. It is typically associated with Satanism, though that is not a completely accurate description. The true emblem of the Church of Satan is the sigil of Baphomet, which is a symbol with a goat's head and an inverted pentacle. Within Wicca, the upside down pentacle stands for the 2nd degree in some traditions.

Yes, this is the symbol from the popular TV show "Charmed". Why they chose the triquetra for their Book of Shadows, I would say for the protection the symbol carries, or possibly because it's exotic without being threatening. Like the triskele, this Celtic symbol embodies the sacred number 3, as seen in the 3 phases of the Goddess (maiden, mother, crone) and the 3 elements of nature (land, sky, sea). During the period of early Christianity, the triquetra took on further meaning as the Holy Trinity. This symbol is also seen with a circle going though it.

The triple moon is a Goddess symbol that represents the Maiden, Mother, and Crone as the waxing, full, and waning moon. It is also associated with feminine energy, mystery and psychic abilities. You often see this symbol on crowns or other head-pieces, particularly worn by High Priestesses.

The short and traditional meaning for the ankh symbol is "everlasting life". This symbol is a hieroglyph seen in countless ancient Egyptian carvings, usually held in hand by Gods and pharaohs to show how they preside over life (in other words, are immortal). In these images, the ankh is held by the loop rather than the base. The ankh is a popular symbol among Pagans, likely due to the similarity to a Christian cross which makes the ankh much less shocking to others, as compared to a pentacle.

The seven pointed star has a few names: septagram, septacle, Elven star or fairy star. The number seven corresponds to the spirit realm, which is why this symbol is associated with elves or fairies. There are no set representations for each of the points, but they are sometimes labeled: earth, air, fire, water, above, below and within. The septagram is also associated with astrology because the classical view of the sky contained seven planets.

The unicursal hexagram is a variation of the 6-pointed star. The more traditional way of drawing a 6-pointed star is in the double triangles of the Star of David. But Aleister Crowley created his own design, to create a symbol that could be drawn in one continuous line. The number 6 represents unity and balance, specifically balance between man and the Divine.

This maze-like symbol is associated with the triple aspect of the Greek goddess Hecate. She is considered a 'dark' goddess by some, and rules over cross-roads and the Underworld. Hecate is also known as the Goddess of the Witches. This isn't a particularly common symbol among Wiccans, but you do see it occasionally.

The Eye of Horus can be a bit of a confusing symbol. It is seen sometimes as the right or sometimes as the left eye. The left eye is Eye of Horus and is connected with the moon. When it's the right eye, it's the Eye of Ra, and associated with the sun. Though some sources say there is no distinction at all. The Eye represents the eye that was lost by Horus when he fought with Seth over the murder of his father, Osiris. The symbol is worn for protection and to ward off evil spirits.

There are many variations on the basic triskele (or triple spiral) symbol. The one illustrated here is very simple to illustrate the basic look of the symbol. The triskele is a Celtic symbol, and symbolizes the power of life and rebirth. It combines the spiral (often used to illustrate the cycle of life) and the number 3 is a sacred number, as seen in the phases of the triple Goddess. This symbol is also referred to as a

the elements

A fundamental aspect of Wiccan belief is the set of Four or Five Elements of Nature. Some hold to the earlier Greek conception of the four classical elements (air, fire, water, earth), while others recognize five elements: earth, air, water, fire, and spirit (akasha). Some see the points of the pentagram symbol as representing the five elements. The elements are commonly invoked at the beginning of rituals or used in their physical forms to symbolically purify the ritual circle. Each element has associated symbols, rituals and meanings, which are outlined in the chart below. (Note: Systems of the elements vary by tradition and the associations below are not used by all Wiccans.)

Element

air

fire

water

earth

spirit/ether

Celtic Name airtdeasiartuathaethyr

Direction

EastSouthWestNorthCenter

Color

yellowredbluegreenviolet, white or black

Tool

wandathamechalicepentaclecircle, cauldron

Time

mornings noon twilightmidnightall times Seasonspringsummerautumnwinter all seasonsGoddessMaidenMother Crone Darkall deities

Symbolizes

mind, intellect, reason, sciences, travel, youthstrength, passion, energy, transformation, will, sex, energyemotions, intuition, daring, wisdom, clarity, healing stability, order, grounding, silence, birth, death, beginnings, endings, fertility immanence and transcendence, everything and nothing Ritual Representations incenseincense, candles watersalt, soil fulfilled by presence of practitioners and deities

Sabbats and Esbats

There are 8 Sabbats that make up the Wheel of the Year. The Sabbats are solar,seasonal and represent the cycle of birth, life, death and rebirth. These days areSamhain, Yule, Imbolc, Ostara, Beltain, Litha, Lughnasadh, and Mabon. Sabbatsare celebrated in honor of the God, since it is His sacrifice of birth, life, death andrebirth that are represented by the Sabbats.

Esbats are the celebration of the 13 full moons that occur every year. The Esbats are lunar and represent the Goddess at her height of power. These are the times when Her magick is more potent than on any other day of the month. To see a list of the dates for the Full Moons.

SamhainOther Names: Witch's New Year, Summer's End, All Hollow's Even Date: October 31 (Greater Sabbat/Cross Quarter) Celebration of: The Lord dies and awaits his rebirth at YuleRelated Holiday: HalloweenColors: Orange & BrownSymbols: Fall fruitsNotes: This is the day that the veil between the world of the living and the world of the dead is at its thinnest. This is a good time for divination. At dinner, remember to set a place for your loved ones that have past this year. Leave an offering of food and drink on your door step for those souls that may still wander.

YuleOther Names: Winter SolsticeDate: December 21 (there about)Celebration of: The Goddess gives birth to the GodRelated Holiday: ChristmasColors: Purple or Dark GreenSymbols: Holly, mistletoe, pine branches, pine cones, wreathNotes: Shortest day of the year. Yule log is decorated with evergreen & holly strands before being lit at sunset and is burned until sunrise. Celebration of family and friends. Celebration of peace, love and positive energy.

ImbolcOther Names: Imbolq, Olmeic, Candlemas, Brigits Day, Bride Day Date: February 2 (Greater Sabbat/Cross Quarter)Celebration of: The God is a young child growing in size and strengthRelated Holiday: Valentine's DayColors: Pink or Pale GreenSymbols: The Candle Wheel, Evergreens, Willows, Grain DollyNotes: First planting of spring. Ritual fires are burned. A time for birth, healing and inspiration. This is a popular time for vows of dedication or consecration.

OstaraOther Names: Spring Equinox, EostreDate: March 21 (there about)Celebration of: The God and Goddess begin their courtshipRelated Holiday: EasterColors: Light GreenSymbols: Spring flowersNotes: Light overtakes the dark. Rebirth of life. Contemplate new beginnings and fresh ideas. Serious mediation on your hopes and dreams for the coming year. Solar festival of fire, light, and fertility.

BeltainOther Names: Beltane, May Eve, May Day, SamradhDate: May 1 (Greater Sabbat/Cross Quarter)Celebration of: The Lord and Lady consummate their relationshipColors: White, Red and PinkSymbols: Spring flowers (especially the rose).Notes: Fire and fertility festival. Jumping over the balefire was said to insure protection. Dance around the May Pole. Ring bells to scare away bad spirits. Time for appreciation and affection for all that you have been given in your life. End of spring planting. A time for new beginnings, concepts and ideas.

LithaOther Names: Summer Solstice, MidsummerDate: June 21 (there about)Celebration of: The Goddess is pregnant with the GodRelated Holiday: Feast of John the BaptistColors: White and Pale YellowSymbols: Spear (God) and Cauldron (Goddess). Summer flowers, St. John's Wort, birch, white Lilly'sNotes: Longest day of the year. The God is at his peak strength. Midpoint of the year. Light large bonfires after sundown. Peak of magickal power. Remember that nothing lasts forever. Celebrate abundance, fertility, virility, beauty, and the bounty of our earth. Good time for handfasting, workings for empowerment and consummation.

LughnasadhOther Names: Lammas, Lughnasad, Lugnassad, LunasaDate: August 1 (Greater Sabbat/Cross Quarter)Celebration of: A Festival of not only life and bounty, but of harvest and death, the complete cycle of life.Colors: Gold and Bright YellowSymbols: Summer flowers, nuts and grainsNotes: Fire and light festival. First grain harvest. Feast dedicated to Earth Mother. Count your blessings.

MabonOther Names: Autumn Equinox, Harvest Home, Pagan ThanksgivingDate: September 21 (there about)Celebration of: The God now sleeps within the womb of the GoddessColors: Dark Brown and RedSymbols: Harvest FoodsNotes: Second harvest festival. Celebration of thanks for the crops that were harvested. Dark overtakes the light.

herbs-Cara

Herbs

Most people are not aware that Wiccans use herbs and fewer still understand the reason why. Wiccans understand that herbs, like people have gender, are ruled by a plant, work with an element and are offered to the God or Goddess. Herbs are an important element in Wiccan Magickal spells and most grow their own herbs in their personal garden.

Wiccan Ways to use Herbs

Charms and sachets - Fill a small bag, of the correct color or material, with herbs to make a charm or sachet. You can carry the charm with you, hang it in the house or car, or bury or burn it, depending on the purpose, and the spell you are performing.

Incense- Herbs can be burned as a ritual incense, such as the sage smudge used to clear negative vibrations from a space.

Bath - Make a sachet, and place it in your ritual or healing bath. Fragrant herbs like lavender make a very relaxing bath, and you can use certain herbs to alleviate skin and other conditions, such as using eucalyptus in a bath when you have a cold or flu.

Oils - Place herbs in an oil, let them steep for a few days, then strain. You can make annointing oils for you ritual work, beauty oils for your hair, skin and nails (try coconut or jojoba), or flavor oils for cooking and seasoning, such as steeping rosemary in olive oil.

Teas- Use herbs to make teas for healing illness. Some herbs can be used to mildly alter consciousness, such as valerian or kava kava which can facilitate trance like states.

Smoking- You can make herbal smoking mixtures which will also facilitate altered states of consciousness.

In spellwork, herbs can be sprinkled or placed around or within boundaries (such as your home, altar, or magick circle) to define a "territory" for your magick to work.

Cooking-Of course, you can always use flavorful herbs in cooking and seasoning your food. There are many healthful benefits, and they taste great! Always give all plant life respect, where ever you are- remember, the word "weed" is simply a value judgement! Dandelion, for instance, has many, many healing and nutritional qualities which are extremely beneficial not only to the wildlife which feeds on it, but to you, too! Learn to recognize the herbs around you- even in a city, there are many wonderful herbs growing wild, which you can gather and use. Herbs are Nature's gift- use them with wisedom and joy!

Below are more than 60 herbs commonly found in the kitchen, and the most popular and useful herbs in Wicca.

Angelica Root

Sun Fire Masculine Use in protection and exorcism incense, and also carry the root in a pouch as a protective talisman. Add to bath to remove hexes. Smoking the leaves can cause visions. Angelica protects by both creating a barrier against negative energy, and by filling it's user with positive energy. Removes curses, hexes, or spells that have been cast against you. Enhances the aura, giving a joyful outlook. Relieves tension headache, diuretic, beneficial to the stomach and digestion. Relieves buildup of phlegm due to asthma and bronchitis. Use with caution- Large doses can negatively affect blood pressure, heart, and respiration. If pregnant, can cause miscarriage.

Basil

Mars Fire Masculine Use in love and prosperity spells. Carry to attract wealth. Sprinkle basil over your sleeping lover to assure fidelity. Use it in a ritual bath to bring new love in, or to free yourself of an old love. Also used for purification baths. Sprinkle on the floor for protection, and burn as an exorcism incense.

Bay Leaves

Sun Fire Masculine Use in potions for visions, clairvoyance and wisdom. Place under your pillow to induce prophetic dreams. Carry to ward off evil, and scatter or burn for exorcism. Add to cleansing teas and baths. Scatter on the floor, and then sweep out for protection. The priestesses at Delphi are said to have chewed bay leaves to induce their visions and prophesies.

Blessed Thistle

Mars Fire Masculine Purification, hex-breaking, protection from evil- removes unwanted influences, particularly of malevolent intent. Strew to cleanse buildings or rooms, beneficial in healing spells. Strengthens liver function, combat hepatitis, aids memory purifies the blood stream. Good fof migraine, nausea, and gallstones.

Burdock

Venus Water Feminine Used in protection incenses and for healing, especially the feet. Carry as a protection sachet or burn for purification of a room. Rinse with a root decoction for ridding oneself of a gloomy feeling about yourself or others

. Bramble (Blackberry) Leaf

Venus Water Feminine-Powerful herb of protection, and used in invocations to the goddess Brigit, who presides over healing, poetry, sacred wells, and smithcraft. Also used to attract wealth. If twined into a wreath with rowan and ivy, will keep away evil spirits. A bramble patch is a favorite hiding place for faerie folk, use to invoke and attract faerie spirits.

Cacao (Chocolate)

Venus Water Feminine The Aztec's Food of the Gods. An aphrodisiac, a mild euphoric, and helps to heal depression. It is extremely effective in love potions and spells. Cacao is a required offering during Day of the Dead, can be used to appease restless spirits, or attract passed loved ones during seance.

Camellia

Moon Water Feminine Brings riches and luxury, expresses gratitude. Place fresh blossoms in water on altar during ritual to attract money and prosperity. Used in traditional Chinese medicine for treating skin conditions.

Caraway

Mercury Air Masculine Carry for protection against spirits who mean harm, especially Lilith. The seeds can be used to ensure faithfulness, and can be used in spells to attract a lover. Used in cooking, will induce lust.

Carob

Mars Fire Masculine Often used as a chocolate substitute, but although the flavor is similar, the correspondences are opposite. Useful for protection and prosperity (the dried pods were once used as currency). Can be burned as an incense to attract spirit helpers and familiars, or to deter poltergeists.

Catnip

Water Venus Feminine Animal magick and healing pets, increases psychic bond with animals. Use as a tea for happiness and relaxation. Can also be used during meditation, increases psychic abilities. Useful in love magick- try burning dried leaves for love wishes.

Cayenne Pepper

Mars Fire Masculine Use in hexes, or to break a hex. Use in love or separation spells. The fire or spark of the spirit, it adds power to any spell. Contains capsaicin, which acts as a stimulating digestive aid. Apply externally for joint pain. Aids circulation, blood pressure, and colds. Those with ulcers or chronic bowel disorders should avoid using in large quantities.

Cedar

Sun Fire Masculine Healing, purification, money, protection, love. Cedar smoke is purifying and can cure nightmares. Keep cedar in your wallet or purse to attract money, and use in money incense. It can also be used in love sachets or burned to induce psychic powers. Use to draw Earth energy and grounding.

Chamomile

Sun Water Masculine Chamomile tea is a great relaxer. Prosperity wishes, use to attract money, use as an amulet for prosperity. Use in sleep and meditation incense. Prepares body and mind for magick. Add to a bath or use to wash your face and hair to attract love. Bathe children in chamomile tea to protect from the evil eye, useful in breaking curses cast against you.

Cinnamon

Sun Fire Masculine Spirituality, success, healing, psychic powers, lust, protection, love. Burn cinnamon as an incense or use in sachets and spells for healing, money-drawing, psychic powers, and protection. Mix with frankincense, myrhh and sandalwood for a strong protection incense to be burned every day. A male aphrodisiac.

Cloves

Jupiter Fire Masculine Protection, exorcism, love, money, good luck. Use in incense to attract money, drive away negativity, purify, gain luck or stop gossip. Wear to attract the opposite sex or for protection. Worn or carried to repel negative energies around you, also said to protect babies in their cribs if hung over them strung together.

Coltsfoot

Venus Water Feminine Add to love sachets and use in spells for peace and tranquility. Smoke the leaves to aid in obtaining visions. A soothing expectorant and anti-spasmodic, which can be used to treat bronchitis, whooping cough, asthma, and chronic emphysema. Caution: Do not use if pregnant or nursing!

Cumin

Mars Fire Masculine Burn with frankincense for protection. Mix with salt and scatter to keep away evil spirits and bad luck. Use in love spells. Steep cumin seed in wine to induce lust. Place the seeds on, in or near an object to prevent left. Burn with frankincense for protection.

Red Clover

Mercury Air Masculine Protection, money, love, fidelity, exorcism, success, clairvoyance, beauty. Brings good luck. Induces clairvoyant powers. Use for rituals to enhance beauty and youth.

Comfrey Leaf

Air Saturn Feminine A strong herb for protection against any type of negativity, especially when traveling, and particularly for protection in the astral realms. Very nutritious, beneficial for healing sprains, strains, fractures and sores. Also soothes an upset stomach.

Damiana

Mars Fire Masculine Sex magick, lust, love, visions. Use in lust spells. Use in love baths. Burn to enhance visions. Damiana can be prepared in a tea for use in sex magick. It is a mild aphrodisiac. It produces a marijuana-like euphoria when smoked. Good for enchanting a male lover. Damiana tea is the best thing for hangovers. Use caution with this herb.

Dandelion Leaf

Jupiter Air Masculine Divination, wishes, calling Spirits. Use the root in a tea to enhance psychic powers. Used in Samhain rituals. Sleep, protection, healing. A very nutritious and universally beneficial herb. Use in dream pillows and sachets, the leaves and flowers can be used in tea for healing.

Dill

Mercury Fire Masculine Hang in the doorway to protect your home, or carry to protect your person. Can be used in money spells. Add to a ritual bath to become irresistible to the one you desire. Use in love and lust spells.

Eucalyptus Leaf

Air Moon Feminine Uses include great healing properties, kills germs, infections, eases lung congestion, heart stimulant. Attracts healing vibrations and protection. Use to purify and cleanse any space of unwanted energies. Also useful in dream and sleep pillows.

Fennel Seed

Mercury Fire Masculine Healing, longevity, courage, vitality, virility and strength. Use for protection spells of all kinds. Prevents curses, possession and negativity. Use for purification. Gives strength, courage and longevity. Delicious flavor, purifies breath, aids digestion and weight loss.

Feverfew

Venus Water Feminine Love and protection. Include in charms or sachets. Also a strong herb for health and spiritual healing. Use to ward off sickness and bolster immune system. Protects travelers, keep in your suitcase or car the next time you travel. Excellent treatment for migraine headaches- eases inflammation and constriction of the blood vessels in the head, reduces sensitivity to light and nausea.

Dried Fig

Jupiter Fire Masculine Fertility, love spells- excellent ingredient in spell bags. Divination. Sacred to Dionysus, Juno and many others. Recommended for a Beltane altar. If placed on the doorstep before leaving it will ensure you will arrive home safely.

Flax Seed

Mercury Fire Masculine Use to keep the peace at home- place in a bowl to absorb negative energy. Useful in healing and protection spells. Also, carry flax seeds in your wallet or purse to attract money. Very nutritious, good for cholesterol

. Galangal Root

Mars Fire Masculine Psychic abilities, luck, money. For courage, strength, and for avoiding legal problems. Worn or carried, it protects its bearer and draws good luck. Placed in a sachet of leather with silver, it brings money. Powdered galangal is burned to break spells and curses. It is also carried or sprinkled around the home to promote lust. Worn as a talisman, galangal aids psychic development and guards the bearer's health. A mild hallucinogen- eat about three inches of the root for this effect. Use caution with this plant.

Gardenia

Moon Water Feminine Wear to attract love. Use in healing spells. Use in Moon incense, use to increase spirituality.

Garlic

Mars Fire Masculine Use is in protection spells- traditionally used to ward off vampires. Great healing properties, antiviral, antifungal, strengthening. The ancient Greeks placed garlic on the stone cairns at crossroads as an offering to Hecate.

Ginger

Mars Fire Masculine Love, money, success, power. Use in love spells. Eat before performing spells to increase your power.

Ginseng Powder

Sun Fire Masculine Rejuvenation, longevity and sexual potency. Use the root in spells to attract love, maintain health, draw money and ensure sexual potency. Carry to enhance beauty. Burn to break curses or ward off evil spirits. Make into a lust enhancing tea. Useful as an antidepressant, equalizes blood pressure, and aids digestion.

Hazelnut

Mercury Air Masculine Healing, protection, luck, clairvoyance, divination, inspiration, wisdom, defense, fertility, wishes. Hazel is an ancient Celtic tree of wisdom, inspiration, and poetry. In Celtic tradition, the Salmon of Knowledge is said to eat the 9 nuts of poetic wisdom dropped into its sacred pool from the hazel tree growing beside it. Ancient Irish tales tell of poets and seers "gaining nuts of Wisdom," a metaphor for heightened states of consciousness; this belief may have root in a potent brew ? hazelmead- made from hazelnuts that caused visions. To enlist the aid of plant fairies, string hazelnuts on a cord and hang up in your house or ritual room.

Hulled Hemp Seed

Saturn Water Feminine Healing, love, vision, meditation. Burn as an incense during scrying or to attract spirit guides. Also add to wax when casting candles. Rich in nutrients, add to healing formulas and spells. Also useful in love magick. Hibiscus Flower Venus Water Feminine Useful as an aphrodisiac and in love spells. Also use to induce dreams, and enhance psychic ability and divination. Soothes nerves, antispasmodic. Tea aids digestion, and sweetens breath. Helpful with itchy skin.

Holly Leaf

Mars Fire Masculine Luck, dream magick. An excellent protective herb, keeps away lightning, poison, evil spirits, and other malign forces. The wood is used for all magickal tools as it will enhance any wish you have. A powerful protection. Do not consume, for ritual use only.

Hops

Mars Air Masculine Use in healing incenses and spells. Put inside pillow to induce sleep. Tea helps with a restful sleep. Also drink tea after magickal practices to balance and refocus your energy back to ordinary reality. Use in healing sachets and amulets. Also burned during healing prayers.

Horehound

Mercury Earth Masculine As a tea to increase energy and strength, both physically and mentally- it increases concentration and focus. Carry or burn for protection wishes. Called the "Seed of Horus" by the Ancient Egyptians, it is excellent for blessing one's home. Gather flowering Horehound and tie with a ribbon, then hang it in your home to keep it free from negative energies. The leaves and stems are used in candies, cough drops and syrups. Used to treat asthma, coughs, colds, bronchitis, sore throats, and skin irritations. Also used as a diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant, laxative, stimulant, and stomachic.

Hyssop

Jupiter Fire Masculine An excellent purifying herb. Use in purification baths and spells. Associated with serpents and dragons, and can be burned as an incense to call on dragon energy. Aids in physical and spiritual protection.

Juniper Berries

Sun Fire Masculine Useful for protection magick of all kinds. Makes a nice incense for protection. It can be burned or carried to enhance psychic powers. Attracts good, healthy energies and love. Aids in digestion, intestinal cramps, diuretic, eases arthritis. Banishes energies injurious to good health.

Mandrake Root

Mercury Fire Masculine Protection, love, money, fertility, health. Mandrake intensifies the magick of any spell. To charge mandrake root with your personal power, sleep with it for three nights during the full moon. A hallucinogen when used in tea- it has great power as a visionary herb, empowering your visions and propelling them into manifestation. A whole mandrake root placed in the home will bring protection and prosperity. Carried, it will attract love and couage.

Morning Glory Blossoms

Neptune Water Masculine Happiness, peace, visions. Place under your pillow to stop nightmares and induce beneficial psychic dreams. Sacred to the Aztecs. Do not consume, toxic.

Moss

Jupiter Earth Masculine To ensure good luck, especially with money, carry any type of moss removed from a gravestone. Use in prosperity spells, Gnome magick and spells to Mother Earth. Use in "Witch Bottles" for home and business. Place in your bra When a MALE lover is near to attract sexual attention

Mugwort

Venus Earth Feminine Use in dream pillows for prophetic dreams. Burn with sandalwood or wormwood in scrying rituals. Drink as a tea sweetened with honey before divination. The plain tea can also be used to wash crystal balls and magick mirrors. Leaves of mugwort can be placed around these to aid in scrying.

Mullein

Saturn Fire Feminine Protection and courage. Keeps away demons and nightmares while sleeping, also protects against wild animals. Useful in protection and exorcism spells. Invokes spirits, use on scrying tools to aid divination. This plant is the Original Witch's torch, used to illuminate spells and rites. Useful as an expectorant to clear and heal lungs, stops diarrhea and soothes hemeroids.

Nettles

Mars Fire Masculine Carry to remove a curse and send it back, or sprinkle around the house to keep out evil. Use in purification baths. Highly nutritious for anemia, skin disorders and allergies, restores health, expectorant, stops bleeding. One of the nine sacred herbs of the Anglo-Saxons.

Nutmeg

Jupiter Fire Masculine Luck, money, health. Carry for good luck, and to strengthen clairvoyant powers. Use in money and prosperity spells. A hallucinogen when made into a tea. TOXIC in large doses! Take no more than a pinch!

Orris Root

Venus Water Feminine Love, protection, divination. Use to find and hold love- a powder made from the root is used as a love drawing powder. Protection from evil spirits. Roots and leaves hung in the house, and added to the bath are good for personal protection.

Pau d`Arco

Pluto Fire Masculine Works best during the waning Moon- can be empowered by drawing down the Moon directly into the herb. The active ingredient is xyloidin, a very potent antibiotic and antiviral. Can relieve arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, eczema, gastritis, psoriasis, pyorrhoea, rheumatism, skin and nails, ulcers. Used to treat chronic candida. Potent tonic and cell regenerator, stimulating natural defenses and revitalizing the body. Also a sedative, an analgesic, and a diuretic.

Passion Flower

Venus Water Feminine Promotes emotional balance, peace, attracts friendship and prosperity. Heightens libido, use in love spells. Calming and soothing, promotes emotional balance, aid in sleep. Use to relieve nerve pain and hysteria

. Pennyroyal

Mars Fire Masculine Carry in a green bag to attract money and to aid in business transactions. Burn for protection in meditation and astral travel. Use for ridding negative thoughts against you, carry when dealing with negative vibrations of all kinds. Caution: stimulates menustration when consumed, and can induce miscarriage.

Peppermint

Mercury Fire Masculine Purification, sleep, love, healing, psychic powers. Promotes sleep and visionary dreams. Use in healing and purification baths. Burn as a winter incense. Very useful for stomach upset and heartburn, nausea, and to ease congestion during colds and flu.

Pine

Sun Air Masculine For sacred wisdom. Prosperity,fertility, healing.The Pine tree is an evergreen, its old title was "the sweetest of woods". Its needles are a valuable source of vitamin C and can loosen a tight chest. The scent of Pine is useful in the alleviation of guilt. Burn for strength, and to reverse negative energies

. Raspberry Leaf

Venus Water Feminine Protection, healing, love. Calming, promotes sleep and visions. Useful during pregnancy and childbirth, eases diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Beneficial to the kidneys.

Rose Petals

Venus Water Feminine Love, psychic powers, healing, luck, protection. Use in love spells of all kinds. Drink rose tea before bed for prophetic dreams. Domestic peace and happiness, promotes joy of giving. Helps clear away headaches, dizziness, mouth sores and menstrual cramps. Heart and nerve tonic.

Rose Hips

Venus Water Feminine Rose hips are very high in Vitamin C. Rose hips also contain A, B, E, and K, organic acids and pectin, and have a high concentration of iron. The hips are strung like beads and worn to attract love. A woman should eat rose hips during her menstrual period. A woman's lover should gather roses for this purpose. The earliest known gardening was the planting of roses along the most travelled routes of early nomadic humans.

Rosemary

Sun Fire Masculine Protection, love, lust, mental powers, exorcism, purification, healing, sleep, youth. Burn to purify and cleanse. Use in love and lust incenses and potions. Use for healing of all kinds. A tea of rosemary causes the mind to be alert. Circulatory, digestive and nerve stimulant. Heals headache, depression, and halitosis.

Sage

Jupiter Air Masculine Immortality, longevity, wisdom, protection, prosperity. Use in healing and money spells. Purifying, use as incense during sacred rituals-walk the smoke to the four corners of the room to repel and rid negative energies and influences. Especially good when moving into a new home. Heals wounds, aids digestion, eases muscle and joint pain, colds and fever.

Sea Salt

Saturn Earth Masculine Prosperity, protection, purification, consecration of ritual tools. Sprinkle a few grains around your sacred space to clear it of any unpleasant presences. Some ancient rituals call for pouring dry salt into a receptacle of water to symbolize the dissolving of evil.

Shavegrass

Saturn Earth Feminine Also known as Horsetail. Fertility spells. Nutritious, helps the body absobrb calcium, may help to strengthen bones, hair and nails. Control excess oil on the skin. Diuretic, helps to relieve urinary disorders. May help blood to clot, reduce fevers, and calm nervous tension. Also can be used in snake charming!

Scotch Broom Leaf

Mars Air Masculine A Druid sacred tree. Use in purification and protection spells and scatter to exorcise evil spirits. Burn to calm the wind. The branches are used to make traditional besoms. The tea can induce psychic powers, and its smoke is a sedative. Use in moderation, can be toxic.

Seaweed

Moon Water Feminine Offers protection to those at sea. Summons sea spirits and sea winds. Uses in sachets and spells to increase psychic powers. Scrub floors and doors of business with infusion to attract customers and bring in positive energy. Use in money spells. Fill a small jar with whiskey, add kelp, cap tightly and place in the kitchen window. Ensures a steady flow of money into the household. Helps regulate an underactive thyroid. Relieves the pain of rheumtism and rheumatic joints.

Spanish Moss

Jupiter Earth Masculine Luck, money, banish poltergeists- To ensure good luck, especially with gambling, carry Spanish moss. Use in "Witch Bottles" for home and business. Place around home, or burn to banish poltergeists.

St. John's Wort

Herbs are used to fill charms and sachets, as an incense, a bath sachet, oils, teas, smoking, spellwork and as a food seasoning. There are more than sixty herbs used in Wicca.

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Acacia- Burn on the atar to increase psychic powers and meditation aid.

Agrimmony-Protection, returns spell to the sender, aids sleep.

Allspice- Burn for prosperity

Angelica-Sprinkle about to ward off negaivity and for protection.

Anise- Purification, protection, entices spirits to aid in spells

Apple- Bury in the garden on Samhain as food for the departed spirits, love, share an apple with the one you love, health, attracts unicorns.

Avens- Purification, love

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Basil- Protection, walth, love, repels negativity

Bay- Burn for psychic powers, purification , wish magic

Benzoin- Burn for puricication, prosperity

Bergamot- Success

Betony-Burn at Litha for purification, protection, to be rid of nightmars (put in a pillow uner your own pillow to send away despair (spirinkle around doors and windows, psychic awareness

Blackthorn- Returns evil to the sender

Borage- Tea aids psychic powers, carry leaves for protection

Broom- Purification (sweep the circle) Hang indoor for protection- Faires do not like this jplant and by working with the devas, you aly also come to dislike the musty sent of the broom.

Burdock-Wards of negativity, purifies, protects, Can be used in whasing floors or wear the dried root strung on a red thread.

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Cardamon- Burn for love spells, use in love sachets

Carnation- Protection, altar offerings for Goddess, strength

Cassia augustifolias-Do not use tea during menstration or pregnancy for it will induce both menses and diarrhea and if used to bring on menses or to overcome constipation, may be folowed up after the desired effect with a tea of China Black, chamomile and rose hips. Also called Indian Senna Leaf.

Catnip-Love and eat magic

Chamomile- Meditation, rest (drink in tea), purification, calimness, prosperity, incense for the God.

Cinnamon- Burn for spiritual and psychic powers, proteciton, success

Cinquefoil-Prosperity, proteciton, puification, divination, dreams

Chives-Bury for wealth

Clove- Burn for wesalthk , purification and ward off negativity.

Colesfoot

Comfrey-Root or leaves for healing, carry for safe travel

Corlander-Health

Cumin- Prevents theft, burn for protection.

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Dandelion

Dianthus-

Dill-Seed draws money, leaves for proteciton, flowers for love

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Elecanpane

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Fennel-Protection, sacred to the God, hung over doos at Litha

Ferns- Burn indoors for protection, outside for rain

Feverfew- Wards sickness, wards accidents in travel

Foxglove- Caution, Poisonous, although digitalis comes from it. Grow in the garden for protection of house and yard

Frankincense- Proteciton, blaessing, spirituality, mediation, power

Furze/gorse- Burn at Ostara for proteciton and as prpartation for any confict.

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Garlic- Sacred to Hecates, flowers for altar offering, cloves for protection.

Gentian

Ginger- Love, success

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Hops- Health, aids sleep

Hyssop-Purification, wards negativity

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Kelp-Wind spells, protection, psychic powers

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Lavender-Attracts elves, burn for purificaiton, peace, used in bath for purification;, burn at Litha as offering, love, psychic awareness.

Lemon balm- Success, health, love,-soak in iwne for three hours, remove and serve wine.

Lemon Verbena

loosestrife- Purple restores harmony and brings peace. Can be sprinkled in the cornrs of rooms or given as a gift to bring about an accord.

Lovage

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Mace-Burn for psychic power

Marigold- Marriage speells, clairvoyant dreams when put in a pillow. Mixed with water and rubbed over the eyelids to see faireis, protection enhanced psychic pwoers, pick in full sun.

Marjoram-Love- protection, wealth

Mint- Proection prosperity, altar offering for helpful spirits

Moonwort-Divination, love prosperity

Mugwort- Divination. Rub fresh herb on crystal balls and magic mirrors to increase their strength, pick on full moon night.

Mullein-Protection, divination, health, courage

Mustard- health, protection and fertility]

Myrrh- Protection, ward of negativity, burn for purificaiton and consecrations, usually combined with frankincense.

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Nastartium

Nutmet- Burn for prosperity

Nuts and cones- Use to tip wands for fertility magic

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Oats- Wealth, offering for the God

Orange- Peels for love, incense for good fotune, divination

Oregano-

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Parsley-Purification, protection

Patchouli- Insence for drawing money, fertility, earth, underworld

Pecan- prosperity

Pepper- use in amulets or grow for protection, wards negativity

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Rose

Rosemary-Burn for purification, wands negativity, protection, love, health, gorwn to attract elves, blessing, consecration.

Rowan- Wands and ammulets for knowledge, incense of leaves and berries for diviation, fires to call upon spirits for help, gow for protection of the home, inspiration.

Rue-Blessings, consecration, protection, use in altar oil, health

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Sage- Protection, wisdom, health

Sandalwood- Burn for protection, full moon Esbats, Wards negativity, spirit offering.

Savory

Solomon's Seal- An offering to the elemental for their aid, protection

Star anise- Burn for psychic power and good fortune

St. John's Wort- (Sealroot- Dropberry) Burn at Litha to send away negativity, wear for invincibility, health, willpower, gathered at Litha

Straw- Attracts feries. Do no burn magic infued straw as thqt will bring ill fortune. Can be used as an image to protect an area and when no long needed, release and spread to the winds.

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Tansy- Health

Terragon

Thyme- Wards negativity, Burn for purification and healing spells.

Trefoil- Decorate altar, proteciton , luck, when making one, leave a bit of ginger or milk poured into the ground as payment to the faries.

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Valerian

Vervain- (Verbena)-Gather/burn at Litha, altar offereing, love, purification, draws riches, creativity, wards psychic attack

Vetivert- Love, money, wands, negativity

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Wheat- Fertility, wealth

Woodruff- Add to Beltane wine to clear away bnarriers, protection, success, changes, psychic awareness.

Wormwood- Caution- Poisonous-If burned, use in well ventilated area, perferably outdoors. evocation, divination and scrying, stronger when combind with mugswort, a Sanhain, protection, sacred to the moon.

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Y

Yarrow-Divination, love, happy marriage, a wedding bouquet wards negativity, defense, proteciton, gahter at Letha.

Yaw- Caution- Poisonous. Yule symbol of death and rbirth. Used for dagger handles.

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Trees and Bushes

Alder-Whistles entice the Elemental Air-Water magic, strength

Apple- Love, Spirit food

Ash- Wnnds, protection. Use leaves for prophetic dreams and prosperity, study, health, enhances magic, besom, stang

Birch- Protection, purification, wards negativity, blessing, health, beginnings, besom

Blackberry- Protection, health, prosperity, pies for Lughnassadh

Briar- Add to tea for clairvoyant dreams

Cherry- Chips burned at Sabbats, creativity

Elder-Caution- Seeds are poisonous. Wards negaive thoughts when used as wind chimes, blessings, wood not to be burned as it is sacred to Hecates, See fairies in these trees at Litha. Flowers may be used as an altar offring, berries may be made into Esbat wine, the flowrs may be added to a candle spell address to Hecate during the new moon. Cleansing, offering

Fir/Pine- Prosperity, birth and rebirth, stang

Foxglove- Caution- Poisonous although digitalis comes form it. Grow in the garden for protection of house and yard.

Hawthorn-Powerful wands, fertifity magic, protection, Purity, proteciton, wand, attracts fairies

Hazel-String the nuts on a cord and hang it in the house or ritual room to invite the help of plant fairies, used for wands, healing, protection and luck. Wisdom, all around Witch's wand

Heather- Red to start or end an affiair- White- for potection, putple for spiritual development, use at 'Samhaim to invite spirits to visit.

holly- Enhances magic

Ivy- Fertility, love

Lime Tree-(Linden)- Bark used for protection, leaves and flowers for immortality, good fortune, sleep and love

Mountain ash, (Rowan)Proection, enhances magic, stang

Oak The God, wands, burn leaves to purify the atmosphere, use galls in charms, acorns draw money, burn wood for good health.- Fertility, power, balance, protection, success, stang

Poplar- Success

Rowan- see Mountain Ash

Vine- Grape- happiness

Willow-Burn bark with sandalwood for divinition, love protection Moon magic, wishing, spirits,death passsage, besom

Yew- Caution- Poisonous- Yule symbol of death and rebirth used for dagger handlesm ostcguc awarebessm spirits, death passage.