HERBAL 101
HERBALISM 101
The Garden of life is full of magic.
Join me as I explore the world of supportive herbs, flowers and roots. Returning home to my work and craft, this project has been long in the making. I do not claim to know it all, in fact, I am here just like you, to learn. Much like cooking, my first passion, we will revisit the methods and recipes used in the Witchy Kitchen, while getting better acquainted with the ingredients as we use them.
Let's dig in and get to know some familiar and not so familiar garden friends. Below you will find an A-Z list of herbs, flowers and roots I use in the shop. Weekly, more herbal allies will be added to the list, check for updates. Next month we will get our hands dirty and hopefully start preparing a few herbal remedies to have ready this coming spring!
Methods & Preparation will be updated and released January 15th!
GROUPS OF HERBS, FLOWERS & ROOTS
Herbal Teas & Tisanes
A warm or cold cup of tea is a great place for any new herbalist to start.
Teas and tisanes (tea-less herbal infusions and decoctions) are fairly safe and simple ways to take advantage of numerous plant allies. Brewed hot or enjoyed cold, these methods of preparation are fast unless you use the sun as your source of heat (best for cold teas and tisanes). Black teas can be brewed longer than green teas and depending on the herbs, flowers, or part of the plant used, some tisanes (mainly bark & root decoctions) can be brewed or simmered for a while before tasting bitter. Getting familiar with plants via teas and tisanes gives you a chance to taste fresh or dried plant allies alone or mixed together while receiving all the magical support you'd find in a tincture without all the work. I prefer teas and tisanes to help support daily needs, energy, colds, flu, anxiety and even before bed as a sleep aid.
Medicinal Plants
These plant allies are great for any Kitchen Witch looking to build up their natural wellness cabinet.
Globally, our ancestors utilized many herbal allies to help support, treat and even prevent all kinds of mental, physical, emotional and spiritual diseases. For 1000's of years, these so called "alternative forms of medicine" were used as the first supportive methods of care. Connected to the land, early humans knew of the healing powers within these plant allies and made them available to others through travel and trade. Plants and herbs were so valued they were even used as early forms of money. Most plant magic and healing was passed down through oral tradition which is slowly being lost to the devastation of land all over the world where indigenous people still live. Modern science is continuously trying to catch up and mimic or replicate many plant allies synthetically so they can patent and sell these chemical cocktails as "medicine." The FDA does not approve of natural remedies because health and wellness you can grow virtually for free would disrupt the $1.3 trillion dollar pharmaceutical industry.
28 Powerful Medicinal Plants to Grow...
Medicinal Herbs for Cold & Flu
Prevention is key when it comes to unlocking health & wellness!
Sure, it's great to have supportive cold and flu remedies on hand to help with the symptoms associated with a viral infection. Since it won't be easy to make these remedies in your time of need, you could prepare them seasonally or even just yearly. Prevention is best though to staying happy and healthy all year long. Using immune boosters and vitamin rich plant allies that best suit you is important. Those with immunodeficiency disorders may or may not react well to immune stimulants and those with autoimmune diseases may not react well to immune stimulants like echinacea, reishi is an excellent alternative.
7 Spring Alterative Herbs to Know and Use...
Sleep & relaxation herbal allies
What goes up, must come down...but for some of us it's hard to settle down.
We as a society are over stimulated mentally, physically, emotionally and especially electronically. All of this stimulation, aka stress on the body and mind, can make it hard to unwind. It's no wonder sleep and relaxation tinctures are my top selling offerings. Whether it's an overactive mind or restless leg syndrome, these calming nervine and adaptogens may help support restorative relaxation and even deep sleep or rest.
For years I was restless and often mad at myself for not being able to sleep soundly like others. Through the use of herbs and creating a sleep routine, I have changed my relationship with sleep and rest. I stress the idea of rest because rest is important for training the body to sleep. If you are unable to rest or relax you may struggle when it comes to sleeping. I have found that taking certain herbal allies nightly at the same time every day has dramatically helped. And for those extra restless nights I take additional herbal supplements as needed.
How to Fix Your Sleep Schedule...
Herbal Remedies for Migranes
Great for headaches and even ascension symptoms, these herbal allies offer soothing support and relief.
Nervine herbs effect the nervous and limbic systems. Most often headaches, migraines and ascension symptoms can be caused by an overstimulation mentally, physically or even emotionally & spiritually. These herbs support your body's responses to stress and stimuli. Seasonally our allergies can flare up and nervine herbs can also be used to help support our body's reactions to known allergens.
Alterative Herbs
Circulate Your Heart, Mind, Body and Soul with these naturally detoxifying herbs.
Alterative herbs are a great way to support your overall health and wellness. As a secondary action, little is known in the way of how these herbs actually work on the body. Gradually, overtime though with regular use, alterative herbs can restore body functions. Supporting elimination of toxins, waste and unnecessary buildup via the kidneys, liver, lungs or skin, these herbs essentially alter the metabolism and may stimulate digestion. As they support cleansing and clearing within the body they naturally increase health and vitality.
7 Spring Alterative Herbs to Know and Use...
METHODS & PREPERATIONS
Baking & Cooking
Teas & Tisanes
HERBS A-Z
Medicago sativa L.
Alfalfa
May help with/ support: Cancer Prevention, Candida/yeast, Cholesterol, Female Hormones, Longevity Tinctures, Menopause, Osteoporosis, Some Pets, Spring Tincture.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Alfalfa can be taken in capsules, teas or eaten as fresh raw sprouts that have been rinsed thoroughly to remove mold. Alfalfa tea is mild and good tasting, and it blends well with many other tonic herbs like nettle, mints, and citrus."
"Alfalfa Side Effects: If you have lupus or are in remission, you shouldn't consume alfalfa seeds. Use alfalfa only during its prebloom stages of growth. Alfalfa seeds should never be eaten unless sprouted because they contain high levels of the toxic amino acid canavanine."
-https://www.anniesremedy.com/medicago-sativa-alfalfa.php
"Use alfalfa in magical practice for good fortune and prosperity or to encourage recuperation."
-The Herb Crafter's Tarot
"Gender: Feminine, Planet: Venus, Element: Earth
Prosperity, Anti-hunger, Money. Brings in money and protects against financial misfortune. Harvest a small quantity at the full moon. Dry and burn in the cauldron. Place ashes in an magickal amulet."
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsa-g.html
Angelica archangelica
Angelica root
May help with/ support: Abdominal Cramps, Amenorrhea, Colds, Congestion, Cough, Depression, Digestion, Dysmenorrhea, Hypertension, IBS, Menstruation, Pregnancy/Childbirth.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: The entire plant is used, roots, stems, fruit and leaves, but the resinous root is the part used most often in herbal medicine. The fresh bruised, or dried roots can be taken as a decoction, are made into extracts, and are the source of the essential oil. A magnificent plant to grace your garden, the hollow stems can be candied as well. Angelica tea is warming to the soul and body bitter but not unpalatable."
-https://www.anniesremedy.com/angelica-archangelica-root.php
Angelica Side Effects: Because of its coumarin content, it may interfere with anticoagulant drugs. Angelica is a strong emmenagogue (a substance that induces menstruation) and should not be taken by pregnant women.
-https://www.anniesremedy.com/angelica-archangelica-root.php
"Masculine. Sun. Fire. Deity: Venus.
Exorcism, Protection, Healing, Visions. Use in all protection and exorcism incenses. Angelica protects in two ways: it creates a barrier against negative energy and fills you with good, radiant energy. Removes curses, hexes, or spells that have been cast against you. Enhances the aura. Gives a joyful outlook on life."
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsa-g.html
Arnica montana
Arnica
Helps with: Bruises and Pain.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Arnicated oil, (Arnica flowers infused in oil), or extracts. Arnica is often used in homeopathy and should only be taken internally in the extremely diluted form common to homeopathic remedies."
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/arnica-montana.php
"Arnica Side Effects: Repeated applications can cause skin irritation, which makes it unsuitable for longer term use. Not for use on open and bleeding wounds."
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/arnica-montana.php
-https://blackmagicwitch.com/magic-herb-glossary/herbs-magic/
Withania somnifera
Ashwagandha
Supports: Desire, Hypertension, Libido, Liver, Longevity Tinctures, Lupus, Rheumatoid arthritis, Stress.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Mildly warming. Ayurvedic physicians prescribe the root as an all-purpose tonic, a grounding herb that stabilizes mood."
-https://www.anniesremedy.com/withania-somnifera-ashwagandha-root.php
"Ashwagandha Side Effects: Not recommended during pregnancy, except under the care of an experienced herbal practitioner."
-https://www.anniesremedy.com/withania-somnifera-ashwagandha-root.php
This is a masculine plant related to fire and Mars, it is good for love spells, sex magic and strength.
Eupatorium perfoliatum
Boneset
Helps with: Bronchitis, Colds, Flu, Immune.
"This Native American remedy for colds and fever was adopted by early settlers to America. The name refers to the plant's use to treat breakbone fever, (dengue), a viral infection that causes such intense muscle pain that sufferers feel their bones will break. Only the advent of aspirin displaced boneset as the popular choice for home remedies. Boneset is still one of the best herbal remedies for the flu and fevers.
Preparation Methods & Dosage: Whole herb in capsules, teas, and tinctures. Boneset tea is very bitter."
-https://www.anniesremedy.com/eupatorium-perfoliatum-boneset.php
"Boneset Side Effects: Consumption of large amounts can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Those allergic to chamomile, feverfew, or ragwort should not use. Safety in pregnant women is not established"
"Boneset guides ghosts elsewhere, attracting protective, benevolent spirits instead. Boneset may also be used to protect people and animals from "ghost sickness," the illness that some believe may emerge after extended contact with the dead."
-https://shirleytwofeathers.com/The_Blog/magickal-ingredients/boneset-magick-and-lore/
"Feminine, Saturn, Water,
Protection, Exorcism."
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsa-g.html
Calendula officinalis
Calendula
Helps with: Acne, Beauty, Cuts & Wounds, Dental/Oral Care, Eyes/Vision, Insect/flea Bites, Skin Care.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Calendula is most often applied to the skin in creams, lotions and oils, but can be taken as an herbal tea, used as a tincture, and applied as a poultice."
-https://www.anniesremedy.com/calendula-officinalis-calendula.php
"Can bring about prophetic dreams when tucked under your pillow. Brings the ability to see fairies and for psychic powers."
- http://www.ancient-wisdom.com/herbsaz.htm
"Masculine. Sun. Fire.
Protection, Prophetic Dreams, Legal Matters, Psychic Powers. Aids visionary sight and helps find stolen property by producing a vision of the thief in the mind and the location of the stolen property. Dried petals may be used alone or mixed with dried incense to consecrate divination tools. Petals may be macerated in sunflower oil to make an oil of consecration. Adds a special, loving magick to rituals of death and dying. Carry marigold petals with a bay leaf to quiet gossip."
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsh-o.html
Nepeta cataria
Catnip
Helps with: Abdominal Cramps, Anxiety, Children, Colds, Dysmenorrhea, Insect Repellent, Some Pets, Sleep/Insomnia.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: …Glycerin-based tinctures are also good for both humans and cats. The leaves are sometimes smoked recreationally."
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/nepeta-cataria-catnip.php
"Catnip Side Effects: Not for use during pregnancy."
-https://www.anniesremedy.com/nepeta-cataria-catnip.php
Feminine. Venus. Water. Deity: Bast.
"Cat Magick, Love, Beauty, Happiness. Give to your cat to create a psychic bond between the two of you. Use in love sachets with rose petals. Attracts good spirits and great luck. Used in beauty and happiness spells. Large pressed leaves are used for bookmarks in magickal texts. Mix with dragon's blood in an incense to rid oneself of bad habits or behavioral problems."
This Feminine plant is related to Venus, Water and Bast.
"...Attracts good spirits and great luck."
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsa-g.html
Erythroxylum catuaba
Catuaba
Supports: Desire, Fatigue and Libido.
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/erythroxylum-catuaba.php
"Catuaba Side Effects: Use caution when purchasing catuaba, the bark of many different trees is marketed under this very common name. There are no reported side effects, but as with many popular aphrodisiacs, adulteration is of major concern."
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/erythroxylum-catuaba.php
Used in potions for masculine fatigue. Great for blends to conjure up erotic dreams.
Matricaria recutita
Chamomile
Helps with: Abdominal Cramps, Anxiety, Burns, Candida/yeast, Children, Dental/Oral Care, Depression, Digestion, Ears, Eczema, Facial Care, Gastritis/ulcer, Hair, IBS, Rashes, Skin Care, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Sunburns.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Steep chamomile tea gently for relaxation, longer for digestive upsets. Chamomile tea is yellow, slightly bitter, with a light apple aroma. Chamomile works on all levels of the body/mind, healing both physical distress and calming emotions. Dried chamomile flowers are used to make herbal baths, sleep pillows and poultices. Steeped chamomile flowers in a muslin bag makes an effective hot poultice to reduce swelling, and ease pain for toothaches and earaches. Relax in a bath of chamomile flowers and sooth your mind while you renew your skin."
-https://www.anniesremedy.com/matricaria-recutita-chamomile.php
"Chamomile Side Effects: Chamomile is one of the safest herbs but can cause problems to those who are allergic to the ragweed family. Check for sensitivity before using. Chamomile contains the natural blood thinners known as coumarins, avoid chamomile teas when taking prescription blood thinners."
-https://www.anniesremedy.com/matricaria-recutita-chamomile.php
Masculine. Sun. Water
Money, Sleep, Love, Purification. Sprinkle around property to remove curses and spells cast against you.
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsa-g.html
Turnera diffusa
Damiana
Supports: Desire, Libido, Prostate.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Liquid extracts, encapsulated powder, and most often medicinal herbal teas. Damiana leaf tea is bitter and is often blended with sweeter herbs."
-https://www.anniesremedy.com/turnera-diffusa-damiana.php
"Damiana Side Effects: Damiana leaf tea may lower blood sugars, but tinctures do not. Since one of the traditional uses of the damiana herb was to induce abortion, it should be avoided in pregnancy."
-https://www.anniesremedy.com/turnera-diffusa-damiana.php
"Restore exhausted dreams and pleasures: make damiana incense to awaken your senses.
-The Herb Crafter's Tarot
"Lust, Love, Visions"
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsa-g.html
Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion Root
Helps with: Acne, Alcoholism, Bladder Infection (UTI), Bronchitis, Bruises/sprains, Cholesterol, Colds, Detoxification, Diabetes, Digestion, Hypertension, IBS, Liver, Longevity Tinctures, Osteoporosis, PMS, Pregnancy/Childbirth, Spring Tinctures, Warts.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Drink dandelion root tea to eliminate the toxins that cause skin breakouts and acne. A cup of dandelion tea in the morning to increase regularity. It is a natural diuretic, and gentle laxative that doesn't rob the body of potassium."
-https://www.anniesremedy.com/taraxacum-officinale-dandelion-root.php
"If you make a tea of the roots and place it near your bed you can call the spirits to you so they will answer your questions."
http://www.spiritnow.com/article/horoscopes/the_mystical_magical_healing_properties_of_dandelion_1019
"Divination, Wishes, Calling Spirits"
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsa-g.html
Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea
Helps with: Candida/yeast, Colds, Ears, Immunity, Insect/flea Bites, Sinus, Sore Throat.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Dosage is key. You need to take enough echinacea, and take it frequently enough, to do any good. Capsules are convenient, but not as efficient, and quite often not as potent as tinctures. Echinacea is by no means a good tasting herb for tea, but echinacea tea can be used in compresses and poultices for external applications."
-https://www.anniesremedy.com/echinacea-angustifolia.php
"Echinacea Side Effects: Use with caution if you are allergic to ragweed. If you have an autoimmune disease such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, or a chronic infection such as HIV/AIDS or tuberculosis, you should not use echinacea."
-https://www.anniesremedy.com/echinacea-angustifolia.php
"Echinacea petals can help boost clairvoyant and psychic abilities; its seeds can be used in fertility and abundance spells, and its root provides protective power."
"Strengthening Spells"
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsa-g.html
Hibiscus sabdariffa
Hibiscus
Helps with: Excess weight, Hypertension and Longevity Tinctures.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: The calyx portion of the flower is dried and prepared as a tea."
-https://www.anniesremedy.com/hibiscus-sabdariffa.php
"Burn red hibiscus flowers as incense to increase the passion in the room. Sleep with hibiscus next to your or under your pillow in order to improve the chances of prophetic dreams."
- https://wiccanow.com/magickal-properties-of-hibiscus/
Ocimum sanctum
Holy Basil
Helps with: Colds, Congestion, Flu, IBS, Memory/Focus, Nausea and Stress.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Teas, dried powder, fresh leaf, or mixed with ghee. Holy Basil essential oil is used in skin preparations and cosmetics."
"Make Tulsi incense to increase awareness."
-The Herb Crafter's Tarot
"This plant can be used in rituals for flying, purification, meditation, and guidance."
- https://tamedwild.com/products/holy-basil
Epimedium grandiflorum
Horny Goat Weed
Helps with: Desire, Asthma, Bronchitis, Cardiovascular, Libido, Longevity Tincture, Menopause.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Teas, tinctures and encapsulations."
"Epimedium Side Effects: Do not exceed recommended dose. Overdoses can cause rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure."
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/epimedium-grandiflorum.php
This is a sacred herb that is often used as an offering to the divine masculine and is useful in fertility spell work. It also helps conjure balance and strength.
Jasminum
Jasmine
Lavandula spp
Lavender
Helps with: Acne, Anxiety, Aromatherapy, Beauty, Burns, Candida/yeast, Colds, Cuts & Wounds, Depression, Ears, Facial Care, Fibromyalgia, Headache/Migraine, Herbal Steam, Hypertension, IBS, Insect Repellent, Insect/flea Bites, Lice, Lupus, Nausea, Some Pets, Pregnancy/Childbirth, Skin Care, Sleep/Insomnia.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Lavender tea, tinctures and oils can be made from the fresh or dried flowers. Lavender essential oil should only be used externally, and can be used in massage oils, baths and aroma lamps."
-https://www.anniesremedy.com/lavandula-lavender.php
"Lavender Side Effects: The volatile oils in lavender can be very hard on the liver and kidneys of cats and dogs so no internal use of the herb is suggested for our animal friends."
"Used for protection, healing, love, sleep, purification, and peace. Great addition to sleep pillows and bath spells."
"Love, Protection, Sleep, Chastity (with rosemary), Longevity, Purification, Happiness, Peace"
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsh-o.html
Citrus limonum
Lemon
Helps with: Acne, Beauty, Cellulite, Facial Care, Herbal Steam, Hypertension, Sore Throat, Varicose Veins, Wrinkles.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Lemon juice is a favorite home remedy for treating acne and wrinkles. Use the astringent power of lemon in facial masks and treatments for acne, wrinkles and oily skin. A few drops of lemon essential oil is useful as a water purifier, as is a slice of lemon."
"Used for cleansing. Squeeze a lemon in water to make a washing mixture to remove negative energy from ritual tools and altar."
- https://spells.fandom.com/wiki/Wiccan_Herbs_and_Spices
"Longevity, Purification, Love, Friendship"
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsh-o.html
Melissa officinalis
Lemon Balm
Helps with: Anxiety, Aromatherapy, Beauty, Cardiovascular, Colds, Depression, Dysmenorrhea, Herpes/Cold Sores, Hypertension, Insect/flea Bites, Nausea, Pregnancy/Childbirth, Sore Throat, Sunburns.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Lemon balm Leaf tea, extracts, and the essential oil, melissa are all commonly used. Lemon balm is used to flavor chicken and fish, use it in any recipes that call for a lemon type seasoning."
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/melissa-officinalis-lemon-balm.php
"Lemon Balm Side Effects: None reported, lemon balm is considered a very safe herb even for babies and the frail."
"Dip a lemon balm posy in sacred water; sprinkle it around to brighten dark, stagnant spaces."
-The Herb Crafter's Tarot
Cymopogon citratus, C.flexuosus
Lemon Grass
Helps with: Aromatherapy, Cellulite, and Insect Repellent.
"In Ayurvedic medicine a preparation of lemon grass with pepper has been used for relief of menstrual troubles and nausea."
The Encyclopedia of Magical Plants mentions that Lemongrass will chase away snakes, enhance sexual satisfaction, deepen your psychic abilities and purify your home.
- https://www.chaidim.com/blogs/chaidims-blog/14761409-lemongrass-tea-has-magical-properties
"Repel Snakes, Lust, Psychic Powers"
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsh-o.html
Althaea officinalis L.
Marsh Mallow Root
Helps with: Bladder Infection (UTI), Bronchitis, Burns, Gastritis/ulcer, Nausea, Some Pets, Sore Throat.
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/althaea-officinalis-marsh-mallow-root.php
"Love, Protection, Exorcism"
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsh-o.html
Avena sativa L.
Oatstraw
Helps with: Anxiety, Cholesterol, Eczema, Fatigue, Libido, Some Pets, Psoriasis, Skin Care, Stop Smoking, Stress, Sunburns.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: …Oat extracts are often used as an additive in skin care products, you can easily make your own by using the liquid from cooking rolled oats…"
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/avena-sativa-oats.php
"Oats Side Effects: …For oatstraw tea, it is best to ensure that it is organically grown. In selecting the dried herb for tea, choose seeds that are green to green-yellow, seeds are stronger medicinally than the stems."
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/avena-sativa-oats.php
"Money"
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsh-o.html
Passiflora incarnata
Passion Flower
Helps with: Addiction, Alcoholism, Anxiety, Candida/yeast, Herbal Teas, Hypertension, Nerve/Back Pain, Sleep/Insomnia, Stop Smoking.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Passionflower can be brewed into teas, made into tinctures, or encapsulated. Makes a great addition to bath blends. Passionflower is combined with hawthorn as a cardiotonic, and with lemon balm, Valerian, and St. John's wort for sedative teas."
"Passion Flower Side Effects: Passionflower may aggravate conditions caused by excessive testosterone (baldness and prostate problems in men, unusual aggression, hair growth, and skin problems in men and women) so this should be evaluated before consuming too much Passionflower. Not for use in pregnancy, can cause uterine contractions."
"Peace, Sleep, Friendship"
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsp-z.html
Mentha piperita
Peppermint
Helps with: Aromatherapy, Bronchitis, Cardiovascular, Colds, Congestion, Fatigue, Flu, Gastritis/ulcer, Halitosis, Headache/Migraine, IBS, Insect Repellent, Lice, Nausea. Nerve/Back Pain, Pain Relief, Sinus.
"Peppermint is a first herb of choice for treatment of colds and flu because it acts to relieve multiple symptoms at once: congestion, headaches and muscle aches, nausea and fever. You can drink a hot cup of peppermint tea, diffuse the essential oil in the sick room to ease the breath and kill germs, and use the oil in chest and throat massages. Peppermint also makes a good additive for a foot bath."
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/mentha-piperita-peppermint.php
"Purification, Sleep, Love, Healing, Psychic Powers"
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsp-z.html
Trifolium pratense
Red Clover
Helps with: Bronchitis, Cancer Prevention, Female Hormones, Longevity Tinctures, Menopause, Osteoporosis.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Red clover makes an excellent tea, especially sweetened with clover honey. You can also take red clover as an extract, or in capsule form. Red clover is often combined with black cohosh in herbal formulas for menopause. Externally a cooled tea or poultice can be applied to dry, itching skin."
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/trifolium-pratense-red-clover.php
"Red Clover Side Effects: Safe in normal amounts but consult a physician if you are pregnant or nursing. Pregnant animals have had miscarriages after grazing heavily on clover."
Masculine. Mercury. Air.
Protection, Love, Money, Fidelity, Exorcism, Success.
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsa-g.html
Ganoderma lucidum
Reishi
Helps with: Alcoholism, Allergies, Anxiety, Bronchitis, Fatigue, Hypertension, Immune, Liver, Longevity Tinctures, Stress.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Tea from the dried mushroom, Powdered sprinkled on food or in beverages, as a liquid herbal extract (non-standardized), and as an encapsulated (non-standardized) product from whole mushroom tops."
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/ganoderma-lucidum-reishi-mushroom.php
"Reishi Side Effects: Though rare, side effects including dry throat, nosebleeds, stomach upset have been reported after three to six months of continuous use."
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/ganoderma-lucidum-reishi-mushroom.php
Taoists believe reishi can help align with you with your personal powers or gifts. It is great to use in spells for removing blocks and obstacles.
Rosa spp
Rose
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Rose bark and rose petals make an astringent skin care wash that can help cleanse wounds and stop bleeding. Rosewater can be used on its own as a facial toner and forms the basis for rose cold creams and facial lotions. A few drops of rose oil adds depth, and an unmistakable fragrance to any skin care remedy. Both rose petals and rose hips can be used in herbal teas and as bath infusions, rose hips have the stronger flavor."
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/rosa-spp-rose.php
"Arrange rose thorns and petals together on your altar to cultivate vulnerability and strength."
"Love, Psychic Powers, Healing, Love, Divination, Luck, Protection"
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsp-z.html
Rosa rugosa Thunb
Rose Hips
Helps with: Desire, Aromatherapy, Beauty, Cuts & Wounds, Facial Care, Herbal Steam, Nutrition, Skin Care.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Rose bark and rose petals make an astringent skin care wash that can help cleanse wounds and stop bleeding. Rosewater can be used on its own as a facial toner and forms the basis for rose cold creams and facial lotions. A few drops of rose oil adds depth, and an unmistakable fragrance to any skin care remedy. Both rose petals and rose hips can be used in herbal teas and as bath infusions, rose hips have the stronger flavor."
"Arrange rose thorns and petals together on your altar to cultivate vulnerability and strength."
"Love, Psychic Powers, Healing, Love, Divination, Luck, Protection"
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsp-z.html
Eleutherococcus senticosus
Siberian ginseng
Helps with: Excess weight, Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, Immune Support, Kidney, Libido, Memory/Focus and Stress.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: The dried root is often taken in capsules, or brewed into tea, or made into tinctures."
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/eleutherococcus-senticosus-eleuthero-root.php
"Eleuthero Side Effects: In general, side effects with Siberian ginseng are rare and milder than those that occur with American and Korean ginseng. The Commission E notes a contraindication for hypertension. However, the glycosides contained in eleuthero have been shown to lower blood pressure (McGuffin et al., 1997) Not for use by pregnant women"
Love, Wishes, Healing, Beauty, Protection, Lust
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsa-g.html
Scutellaria lateriflora
Skullcap
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Skullcap is most often taken as a tea or tincture but is also found in capsule form. Tinctures made from the fresh herb are the optimal choice. Teas should be drunk hot."
"Skullcap Side Effects: Avoid if pregnant. Safe in normal amounts, overdose can cause confusion and giddiness, possible seizures. Select a high-quality, reputable product with an assurance that it contains only Scutellaria. In the past, real skullcap was adulterated with Teucrium canadense, or pink skullcap."
"Love, Fidelity, Peace"
- http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsp-z.html
Hypericum perforatum
St. John's Wort
Helps with: Anxiety, Aromatherapy, Arthritis, Bed Wetting/incontinence, Burns, Congestion, Depression, Ears, Fibromyalgia, Flu, Herpes/Cold Sores, Lupus, Nerve/Back Pain, PMS, Rheumatoid arthritis, Skin Care.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: St. Johns can be taken in teas as a general nervous system tonic, standardized capsules and tinctures are most often used in treating depression. St. John's Wort oil is used as an external skin treatment."
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/hypericum-perforatum-john-wort.php
"Craft oils and elixirs with St. John's wort to invoke the healing powers of the light during dark times."
Valeriana officinalis
Valerian Root
Helps with: Addiction, Cardiovascular, Cough, Cramps/abdominal, Headache/Migraine, Some Pets, Sleep/Insomnia, Stop Smoking.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Valerian can be made into tea, taken in capsules, or used as an extract."
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/valeriana-officinalis-root.php
"Valerian Side Effects: Generally considered safe, large amounts can cause stomach upsets. In about 5 percent of the population, valerian acts as a stimulant, be aware of this effect if you are new to the herb."
"Love, Sleep, Purification, Protection"
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsp-z.html
Salix Alba
White Willow Bark
Helps with: Arthritis, Colds, Cramps/abdominal, Cuts & Wounds, Excess weight, Fibromyalgia, Headache/Migraine, Lupus, Osteoporosis, Pain Relief, Rheumatoid arthritis.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Often taken in capsules, a suggested dosage is 225 mg of white willow bark four times daily but follow package directions on capsules and tinctures. It is hard to judge the amount of salicin in the bark, a bark tea can normally be taken 3 to 4 times daily, a daily cup or two of willow bark tea would probably provide the equivalent of the low aspirin dose recommended for heart attack prevention. Use the chopped bark, not the powdered bark to make your tea. Add ginger, anise, or cinnamon to enhance the flavor. Tinctures of willow bark (1-2 dropperfuls/1-2 ml) are highly effective way to take the herb. White willow is best when used over long periods of time."
White Willow Side Effects: Do not take willow bark if you are allergic to aspirin, are currently taking anti-platelet or anticoagulant drugs as this may increase the chance of stomach bleeding.
"Love, Divination, Protection, Healing"
-http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsp-z.html
Achillea millefolium
Yarrow
Helps with: Colds, Cuts & Wounds, Dysmenorrhea, Hypertension, Menorrhagia.
"Preparation Methods & Dosage: Tea can be made from both fresh and dried cut leaves and flower heads. The bitter taste can be masked with sweeter herbs and a bit of honey. Fresh leaves also can be used as a poultice to stop bleeding and chewed to relieve a toothache. Yarrow essential oil is used for external application for many of the same purposes. Yarrow can also be taken as an extract."
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/achillea-millefolium-yarrow.php
"Yarrow Side Effects: Avoid in pregnancy, can cause allergic skin reactions in sensitive people who suffer from allergies related to the Asteraceae family. Moderation is the key to safe use, the thujone content can be toxic over an extended period of time"
- https://www.anniesremedy.com/achillea-millefolium-yarrow.php
"Craft a powder of dried yarrow leaves to stop bleeding. Use it in magical practice to heal wounds that cut to the bone."
"Courage, Love, Psychic Powers, Exorcism"
- http://www.earthwitchery.com/herbsp-z.html
Pausinystalia johimbe
Yohimbe
Helps with: Desire and Libido.
"While Yohimbe herb is often thought of for male erectile dysfunction support, most people don't realize that yohimbe is also effective in women. This herb increases blood flow to the genitals of both males and females giving women an enhanced sensation and engorgement of genital organs. However, keep the dose low to prevent the yohimbe side effects.
Preparation Methods & Dosage: Commonly found in a standardized supplement containing 8 to 16 milligrams of yohimbine, or yohimbe tincture. Also suitable for a decoction."
Yohimbe Side Effects: …Not recommended if you have severe kidney or liver disease. Not to be taken if you are currently on blood thinning medication, and it is not recommended to be taken for extended periods of time. Side effects can include anxiety, dizziness, rapid heart rate, insomnia, and nausea. Extremely high doses can cause hallucinations and cause muscular dysfunction - do not exceed recommend dosage! The herb contains compounds capable of elevating and also lowering blood pressure to a possibly dangerous level."
Great for spell work and crafting centered around love.