Root / Bark / Wood
Cramp bark, also known as Guelder Rose is a very decorative shrub, which is often grown in gardens for their showy white flowers and pretty leaves, which turn bright red in the autumn. The red berries persist into the winter. There are about 150 species in this genus. Viburnum opulus is called 'European Cramp Bark' to distinguish it from its close relative Viburnum opulus var. americanum. There are also a number of other closely related Viburnum species that are at home in North America and which have long served in as Native American remedies.
In medicine it is usually the bark that is used, although the berries are very rich in vitamin C and have sometimes been made into a kind of medicinal jam, their taste when eaten raw is rather bitter. The tart flavor and the looks of the berries have also earned this plant the nickname of highbush cranberry, although of course it is in no way related with real cranberries. Instead, it is a distant cousin of the elder tree
. In Siberia, a liquor is distilled from the berries. Upon drying the berries turn black and can be used to make ink. Native Americans have been known to smoke the bark of Viburnum and occasionally add it to their kinnikkinnik mixture.
Traditional
Cramp bark is an excellent relaxant remedy, with anti-spasmodic action on the smooth and striated muscles. It can be used in all conditions where tension needs to be eased to give pain relieve, e.g. in crampy painful menstruation, colic and other spasmodic digestive troubles such as stomach cramps or liver and gallbladder colic. It can be used in cases of threatened miscarriage and also in excessive bleeding as a symptom of menopause. Native Americans also used Cramp bark as a diuretic and diaphoretic and employed it to reduce swollen glands as in cases of mumps. They also used the fruits and leaves to treat bladder inflammation, scurvy and diabetes. However, the berries may cause diarrhea and vomiting.
Magical
Cramp bark is deeply relaxing. It can be used as an aid to meditation, to let go of the stress and tension of the day in order to reach higher ground and a more relaxed and detached perspective. When one is feeling all uptight and tied up in life's problems and anxieties cramp bark loosens the shackles of angst.
Dandelion is probably the most commonly recognized wild flower - every child knows the sunny blobs that appear in early spring and sprinkle the fields with floral sunshine. Their sight delights the heart, for they are a sure sign that spring is near. Only gardeners look upon it with dismay, for their profuse seed disposal and rampant roots that won't be defied not matter how hard one digs at them. From the tiniest bit left in the ground new Dandelions will sprout. But instead of cursing them we should be grateful for their profusion, for there are few more healthful herbs so easy to come by!
Its name Dandelion is an adaptation of Dent de Lion - Lion's tooth, in allusion to the fearsomely jagged profile of the leaf margins. Its other French derived name 'Pis-en lit - 'Piss-a-bed', is not particularly charming, but tells us something about the leaves effects. Children love playing with all parts of this little flower, weaving garlands, or running water through their hollow stems, or blowing their beautifully delicate globe of helicoptered seeds to the winds. Some country folk still remember the healthy virtues of this plant in spring and use it as a vegetable - eating the leaves as salad, roasting the roots as vegetable or as a coffee substitute, and making wine from the flower heads.
Medicinal:
If Dandelion leaves are a tonic for the kidney, the roots are a tonic for the digestive system, liver and gall bladder. Their bitterness stimulates the flow of all digestive juices and bile, but don't use if the gallbladder duct is somehow blocked. The roots dug in the autumn are particularly rich in inuline and are highly beneficial for diabetes. The liver toning properties of dandelion help to clean the blood of impurities and are thus also very helpful as a supportive remedy for skin conditions. Together, dandelion leaves and roots make the best overall spring cleansing herb.
Magical:
Children divine all kinds of oracles by blowing on the seeds - depending on how often they have to blow until the last seed has been taken by the wind they determine the time of day, the number of years until one will be married, how many children one might be blessed with etc. This use of Dandelion as a flower clock certainly explains kid's odd sense of timing. In the old days Dandelion was an important herb in spring rites, many of which were cleansing and protection rituals - it was included in the 9 herb bundle and it was considered essential to eat Dandelion on Maudy Thursday in order to prevent sickness for the rest of the year. Witches are known for their evil doings, such as stealing the milk from innocent cows, but Dandelion in their diet would is sure to restore it. Dandelion is a herb of prosperity, health and protection, and anybody would do well to honor it.
The root with the sinister name provides blessed comfort for joint, muscle and connective discomforts. Devil's Claw contains harpagoside and other active compounds, which fight joint stiffness & supports healthy inflammatory response.
The traditional African root also offers vital support for upset stomach, gas, and bloating. Devil's Claw stimulates the secretion of digestive enzymes and beneficial stomach acids that enhance digestion and help to break down protein and fat.
Magical:
: A Powerful Exorcism and Purification Herb, it is burned on charcoal to cleanse your house of negativity, or when casting a Magic Circle to clear any residual negative energy and create pure space for your magical work.
This is a great herb to burn when moving into a new home to remove the residual energies of previous tenants.
It has powerful protective qualities and as an amulet, placed near door ways, may protect against unwanted intruders.
The seed pods of Devil’s Claw, named for their threatening shape, make excellent protective charms. The shape of the pods is suggestive of protection.
An herb with a common name that has many species ! We use Tephrosia virginiana which is Goat's Rue
Devil's Shoe String was used by various Native American tribes such as the Cherokee and Catawba for a wide variety of purposes. It's most notably used today to promote intestinal cleansing and as a mild stimulant tonic. Devil’s Shoestring is a very powerful herb The roots of Devil’s Shoestring is sometimes used medicinally as an antispasmodic, especially to ease menstrual cramps.
Devil’s Shoestring is said to bring luck against any sort of attack when being carried with you. Commonly used in Hoodoo conjure works, it is a multipurpose herb that can be used when bringing luck for a new job, or for “tripping up the devil” by protecting one from harmful energies. Carry Devil’s Shoestring in a white medicine pouch to protect against negative energy or in a green medicine pouch for good luck and fortune. It can also be placed in a bundle above a doorway or fireplace to protect your home. It is said that in the past, Devil’s Shoestring was sometimes worn as an anklet to prevent being “poisoned through the feet”.
Echinacea is widely used to fight infections, especially the common cold and other upper respiratory infections.
The people who use echinacea to treat symptoms have the right idea. Research to date shows that echinacea probably modestly reduces cold symptoms, but it’s not clear whether it helps prevent colds from developing.
It is also used against many other infections including the flu, urinary tract infections, vaginal yeast infections, genital herpes, bloodstream infections (septicemia), gum disease, tonsillitis, streptococcus infections, syphilis, typhoid, malaria, and diphtheria
Carrying Echinacea will provide inner strength during trying times. It can also be grown around the house or brought into a house and placed in a vase to draw prosperity into the home and protect the family from suffering from poverty. Echinacea is an appropriate flower for offerings, especially to place spirits and river Goddesses.
Including Echinacea in any spell or charm will increase its effectiveness.
This tall, showy herb of the compositae family never plays hide and seek, its presence is obvious. Its large leaves can't be overlooked and although its sunflower-like blossoms are not all that big, they immediately draw attention. Thus Elecampane has been welcomed in our gardens, not just as a useful medicinal herb to have at hand, but also as an ornamental garden herb. Inula is said to have derived its second name, helenium, from Helena, who, according to legend, had her hands full of the herb when Paris came to take her to Phrygia, or alternatively, that it sprang from her tears. The ancients were already very familiar with it and both Pliny and Dioscurides mention it. Pliny describes how to make medicinal oil and wine from the root and the Roman poet Horace praised it for easing an uncomfortable stomach after one has eaten too much. In fact, the root has sometimes been candied and given as a digestive aid. Others prefer to eat it like a vegetable, which is particularly beneficial for those who suffer from diabetes, as the root is rich in inuline.
Medicinal:
Elecampane is diuretic and diaphoretic as well as expectorant. In short it, it gently stimulates the channels of elimination. In practice it is mostly used for conditions of the respiratory system and can be added to any cough blend. Messegue even relates stories of its effectiveness for whooping cough and tuberculosis. Apparently it has an antiseptic component, which indeed makes it effective for this disease. This explains its use as an anti-pest medicine in former times. It was also used in diphtheria, phthisis, flu and other feverish infections. It is a toning and gentle, yet effective remedy which can be used for chronically weak patients, the elderly or children. It also stimulates the appetite and aids digestion.
NOTE: Do not use during pregnancy.
Magical:
In Denmark Elecampane is associated with elves and fairies. It can be used to appease the fairies and win their favor, but also to break their spells. It is also used for its protective powers and as a good luck charm. In particular, it protects against the demons of disease.
This is the real deal... European Mandrake - Mandragora officinarum from Spain ....
All species of Mandragora contain highly biologically active alkaloids, tropane alkaloids in particular this makes the roots and leaves of the plant highly poisonous
Medicinal properties are included as part of the historical use ..internal consumption is not recommend....
The root is hallucinogenic and narcotic. In sufficient quantities, it induces a state of unconsciousness and was used as an anaesthetic for surgery in ancient times. In the past, juice from the finely grated root was applied externally to relieve rheumatic pains. It was also used internally to treat melancholy, convulsions, and mania.[When taken internally in large doses, however, it is said to excite delirium and madness.
In the past, mandrake was often made into amulets which were believed to bring good fortune, cure sterility, etc. In one superstition, people who pull up this root will be condemned to hell, and the mandrake root would scream as it was pulled from the ground, killing anyone who heard it. Therefore, in the past, people have tied the roots to the bodies of animals and then used these animals to pull the roots from the soil.
Mandrake is masculine, ruled by Mercury and fire and associated with Circe, Hecate, Diana, Hathor and Saturn. A dried mandrake root placed on the mantelpiece will protect and bring happiness and prosperity to the household. It will also prevent demons from entering. Placed on top of money, it will make the money multiply.
A mandrake root can be used as a poppet for sympathetic magic. It can also be carved into various shapes for magical use.
The berries as well as the root are used in charms to increase fertility. Carried, it is said to attract love. It is also used in aphrodisiac spells.
Mandrake intensifies magick in any situation.
!!!!DO NOT INGEST EVER!!!!
Medicinal Uses:
As with Ginger, the obvious uses for galangal are as a warming, soothing carminative stomach ally that aids indigestion, flatulence and nausea, especially from travel sickness.
Galangal is more powerful than that. It appears to be effective in the treatment of ulcers (though some sources warn against this use) and be able to fight candida albicans.
During the Middle Ages, it had a reputation for heart complaints, which was long considered superstition. However, recent research has shown it to be extremely effective in inhibiting platelet aggregation, which under the wrong circumstances can cause blood clots that block arteries and can lead to heart attacks. Thus, it would probably not be a good idea to use this herb excessively if one is already on blood thinning medication.
Magical Uses:
Galangal nurtures the fire within. It burns away the wishy-washy thoughts of every day affairs and is thus an excellent concentration aid that will help the practitioner to focus his or her intentions.
It promotes clarity of vision and helps focusing visualizations.
It is also an excellent aphrodisiac that may be useful in sex magic and tantric rituals.
Ginger has been used for food and medicine for so long that nobody knows exactly where it originally came from. The oldest documented use dates back to China in about 2000BC. In all likelihood it was there that Ginger was first cultivated. It is not only one of the most ubiquitous spices of Asian cuisine, but it is equally valued as a medicine. The English name 'Ginger' seems to have derived from Sanskrit 'shringavera', which means 'antler shaped root'. Ginger is in fact a rhizome rather than a root, which proved very handy as it can be transported in a dormant state, ready to be planted even in our northern climes. However, it is not winter hardy and dies at the slightest hint of frost. Grated Ginger was freely available in pubs to spice the ale. The idea was later marketed as a separate concoction, which became known as ginger ale. Ginger has a longstanding reputation as an aphrodisiac and is sometime used in the treatment of impotency.
Medicinal:
Ginger is very stimulating and warming. It acts as a digestive aid, warms the stomach and dispels wind. It is one of the best herbs for nausea, motion or morning sickness. It stimulates appetite and improves digestion. Its warming qualities are also used in the treatment of colds and catarrhs, coughs, respiratory congestion, sinusitis and sore throats. It is diaphoretic and can be useful for treating coughs, colds or feverish conditions. Ginger stimulates the circulation and can help to increase the flow of blood to the extremities and may soothe chilblains. It boosts energy levels and can be used for nervous exhaustion, general weakness, malaise and fatigue.
Magical:
Ginger 'energizes' all magical works and may help focusing on the intent. It is used for courage and concentration. Its aphrodisiac properties make it well suitable for use in sex magic and tantric rituals. Ginger may also be included in love philtres and potions. It sensitizes the third eye and can be used as an energy transmitter in spiritual healing.
At home in the tropical regions of West Africa, the Kola tree is a relative of the Cocoa tree, which can grow up to a stately height of 65 m. The nuts are arranged in seed pods similar to those of cacao.
Everybody has heard of Kola, yet few are aware of it. Kola in fact contributed the stimulating action of its seeds to the original Coca Cola recipe, though today all natural substances have been removed and replaced by artificial ingredients. Thus, today all there is left of Kola in the famous beverage is half of the name.
In West Africa, Kola enjoys a much revered status as a sacred plant. 'Kola brings life' is a common saying in West Africa where Kola nuts are ceremonially shared as a sign of peace and honor, to welcome friends or strangers, to seal agreements and even to seek favor with the family of one's bride to be. These customs are particularly common among the tribal people, but e.g. in Nigeria the ceremonial sharing of Kola nuts is a respected sign of peace and concordance at all levels of society.
Traditional
Kola nuts are rich in caffeine and are used for their stimulating effect, e.g. in cases of mental or physical exhaustion, mental strain while studying, or as an energy booster. They also suppress feelings of hunger and thirst and may be used as a diet aid.
In West Africa, Kola nuts are used as a digestive aid. A little piece of nut chewed before the meal is not only said to improve digestion but also makes the meal taste better.
It may help allay headaches and migraines and has diuretic and astringent properties.
Magical
Kola nuts can be used to enhance concentration and mental clarity during long rituals and meditation. They can energize prayers or spells. Kola nuts are generally considered as a bringer of peace and may help reaching a decision or agreement among a group of people. It also has a reputation as an aphrodisiac, probably thanks to its energy boosting effect.
Kudzu is a vine. Under the right growing conditions, it spreads easily, covering virtually everything that doesn't move out of its path. Kudzu was introduced in North America in 1876 in the southeastern U.S. to prevent soil erosion. But kudzu spread quickly and overtook farms and buildings, leading some to call to kudzu "the vine that ate the South.” Kudzu's root, flower, and leaf are used to make medicine. It has been used in Chinese medicine since at least 200 BC. As early as 600 AD, it was used to treat alcoholism.
Today, kudzu is used to treat alcoholism and to reduce symptoms of alcohol hangover, including headache, upset stomach, dizziness, and vomiting. Kudzu is also used for heart and circulatory problems, including high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and chest pain; for upper respiratory problems including sinus infections, the common cold, hay fever, flu, and swine flu; and for skin problems, including allergic skin rash, itchiness, and psoriasis.
It is also used for menopause symptoms, muscle pain, measles, dysentery, stomach pain (gastritis), fever, diarrhea, thirst, neck stiffness, and to promote sweating. Other oral uses include treatment of polio myelitis, encephalitis, migraine, deafness, diabetes, and traumatic injuries.
Who is not familiar with the sticky black confectionary known as licorice?
A popular sweet and flavoring agent, licorice has been well known and widely used throughout Britain and northern Europe since Medieval times and has been cultivated in England since 1560, though it naturally prefers hotter climes.
It originates in southern and south-eastern Europe, but has spread throughout the near and middle East and even as far east as China, where the local variety serves as one of the most popular ingredients of Chinese compound medicines.
Licorice is a medium sized shrub that belongs to the pea family, but it is the rhizomes of 3-4 year old plants that are used for flavoring and medicine. The roots are shredded and boiled until a thick black syrup results, which upon cooling solidifies into the familiar black substance. Natural Licorice is 50 times sweeter than sugar and as a flavoring agent it is usually mixed with Aniseed.
It is popular in certain baked goods, but most importantly, it lends its flavor to mask other, less pleasant medicines, while the powder is used to reduce the stickiness of pills.
Traditional:
Licorice has long been valued as a soothing agent for the throat and bronchi and is used by itself or in combination with other herbs, such as Fennel and Aniseed.
It is mildly laxative and makes a great additive to bitter laxative teas such as Cascara Sagrada. Recent studies point to a far more powerful and interesting use of Licorice though.
It has been discovered that Licorice is strongly anti-inflammatory and has a marked effect in conditions such as arthritis and gout.
It also appears to have a powerful effect on the glandular system and the liver.
It gently stimulates and balances the adrenal glands, which may be very useful in cases of chronic fatigue syndrome.
It is also estrogenic and reduces testosterone. Thus, it may be helpful in regulating certain hormonal imbalances caused by estrogen deficiency.
Licorice has also shown a protective and healing effect on the stomach and liver. It is indicated for stomach ulcers as well as for cases of chronic liver inflammation (hepatitis) and even cirrhosis. However, due to the possibility of certain adverse drug interaction it is mandatory to consult a qualified practitioner before attempting self-treatment.
Magical:
Magical use of Licorice is not well documented. Culpeper ascribes the herb to Mercury. Its effects can be classified as balancing and thus may help the practitioner to maintain the middle path without being led astray into extreme forms of practice (over indulgence or asceticism and abstinence).
In Germany the herb was regarded as life-giving and has been used in fertility rites, especially for women.
Lovage is used as “irrigation therapy” for pain and swelling (inflammation) of the lower urinary tract, for prevention of kidney stones, and to increase the flow of urine when urinary tract infections or fluid retention is present.
Lovage is a flowering plant in the same family as carrots, parsley, and dill. Its dark green leaves resemble cilantro, while the stalks resemble celery. The herb is sweeter but stronger than celery.
Brought from Europe as both a food and as a medicinal, it now grows wild in the United States in New England, the Great Lakes states, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico.
For centuries, it has been thought of as a good ingredient to add to love potions. During the 1800s, a cordial made from lovage, tansy, and yarrow was widely available as a folk remedy for an upset stomach.
Random Historical Fact: Charlemagne was said to have liked the sight of lovage so much so that he had the grounds of his estate populated with it.
Both the root and leaf can be used.
NOTE: Not for use in pregnancy, except under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner.Metaphysical:
Main uses: love, passion Other uses: beauty, cleansing, consecration, money, protection, psychic protection, purification.
Black (Male Vitality / Stamina / Energy)
Maca helps promote energy & stamina, has been used as a traditional libido tonic, and is incredible for supporting hormone balance
The 2,000 year-old Peruvian vitality secret is out! The legendary Maca root boosts energy and stamina, enhances libido and helps your body adapt to physical and mental stress.
The restorative tonic is also a powerhouse of amino acids, fiber, minerals and other phytonutrients. No wonder, Maca Root is a popular herbal food to boost athletic performance and overall vitality!
Magnolia is an ancient genus of plant having evolved even before bees appeared on the timeline. The giant blossoms on this tree developed to encourage pollination by beetles first. Some fossilized specimens have been found to date back approximately twenty-million years!
In ancient China where the plant was called Yu-lan (Jade Orchid), only the Emporer was entitled to own a Magnolia and he would occasionally give a root as a sign of imperial favor. The ancient Aztecs also knew of the Magnolia tree, naming it Eloxochitl or "Flower with Green Husk". One superstition tells that a blossom placed in the bedroom will kill anyone who sleeps there.
In flower symbolism, the Magnolia represents nobility, perseverance and a love of nature. Indeed, this plant has been known to survive ice ages, mountain range formations and continental drift and still rises regally among other flowering trees with some of the most magnificent foliage. Dreaming of Magnolia symbolizes beauty, grace and elegance. It can also represent a need to feel protected and safe, or to be recognized.
Wands made from Magnolia will help to encourage a regal but gentile demeanor. There is an almost hypnotic and languid quality to this wood that is at once commanding but unhurried. It will help the practitioner to make wise decisions and develop patience and endurance. Magnolia will inspire a graceful and elegant application of will and encourage one to see the beauty of nature everywhere.
The most impressive health benefits of magnolia include its ability to treat menstrual cramps, improve respiratory health, detoxify the body, boost cognition, soothe the digestive system, stimulate the appetite, reduce stress, and protect against severe allergic reactions
TCM: In traditional Chinese medicine (known as Hou Po), the bark is used for regulating Qi (life-force) and resolving stagnation. It helps with coughing, vomiting and bloating.
Medicinal Uses:
Marshmallow root is an excellent mucilage herb to soothe an irritated digestive tract. It has been recommended for stomach or duodenal ulcers, gastritis and irritable bowel syndrome. The mucilage will line the stomach and intestinal walls and thus form a barrier against harsh stomach juices that irritate inflamed mucous membranes. However, it should be noted that this mucilage barrier may delay the effects of other drugs that depend on the absorption via the digestive system. Marshmallow root can also be used for the same purposes as Marshmallow leaves, to soothe irritated mucosa of the respiratory system and the urinary tract. It may be particularly helpful when kidney gravel or sand are being passed, as it will help to soothe the irritation.
Magical Uses:
Mallow is cooling and soothing, yet due to its mucilage properties it is also useful for stimulating the heat of passion. It can be used as an aphrodisiac and for fertility rites. It has also been added to incense mixtures for protection against disease, to enhance fertility and ensure the easy delivery of healthy children.