Root / Bark / Wood

Root, Barks, and Wood
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Mimosa Bark - Mimosa hostilis

Native Use:
The Aztecs already knew of the Mimosa tree during pre-Columbian times. The name Tepeszohuite, which is now common in Mexico is derived from the Aztec tepus-cuahuitl “metal tree,” a reference to the tree’s extremely hard wood. Until recently it was thought that the Jurema cult had died out, but it is now experiencing a great renaissance.

For many centuries, the Aztecs and other indigenous groups used the Mimosa hostilis/tenuiflora root bark to treat skin burns and wounds. They also used it to make tea.
Mimosa hostilis/tenuiflora also is an excellent body paint or natural coloring agent for textiles.
This tree has played a major role in the traditions of different indigenous tribes in both South, Central and North America.

Medicinal aspects:
This species came to the attention of scientists just over 150 years ago, although it was hardly studied until the 1980s. Now much is known about this tree.
Currently, Tepezcohuite / Jurema is used throughout the world as the subject of medical, pharmacological, preclinical and clinical research on its various healing effects, antibiotic and regenerative effects on epithelial cells and for the elaboration of different medicinal products and standardized extracts. It has been combined within sophisticated formulas to produce cosmetic and entheogenic products
. In recent years, Mimosa hostilis has been popularly used as an important element for the preparation of modern analogs of Aya brews.

Common names: Jurema, Tepezcohuite, Jurema Preta, Calumbi, Yurema, Ajucá, Cabrero, Jurema negro, Tapescahuite, Vinha da jurema, Espineiro, Tepescohuite, Veuêka, Carbon.
1 Oz
Out of Stock
$10.00
Nettle Root - Urtica dioica

Nettle has been in use since the time of the famous first century Greek physicians Dioscorides and Galen.
Today, it remains an important, time-proven herb for men who want to promote and maintain prostate and urinary tract health.
Nettle root preparations are an accepted herbal approach to promoting urinary tract health, as well as for providing soothing support for prostate and bladder functions.

Magical:
Nettles are often mentioned in association with love potions.
Especially the seeds are said to have aphrodisiac properties.
Nettles are also used for protection - worn as amulets or hung above stable doors they ward off evil witches and demons
. In particular, Nettles are often used to protect milk or beer from turning sour during a thunderstorm.
A wide range of conditions was addressed by various sympathetic folk-medicine practices that involved Nettles.
It is a classic spring cleansing herb and sacred foods such as Nettle pudding, Nettle soup and Nettle beer not only act physically restorative, but also confer protection against disease and are said to attract good fortune for the entire year.

1 Oz
$3.00
Orris Root - Iris X Germanica var. Florentina

Orris root derives from the much loved ornamental garden flower known as Iris. The French call it 'fleur-de-lys', which long ago became stylized and adopted as an emblem of the French monarchy. Its ancient origins are rather mystical. The story goes that an Iris was used at the crowning of King Clovis I or, alternatively, that God himself had sent a vial of oil directly from heaven to anoint the sacred king. The Iris soon became associated with Mary and the Virgin, and served as a symbol of purity. Conversely, according to another legend it had sprung from Eve's tears of sorrow after her and Adam had been expelled from the Garden of Eden. Another legend attributes Iris to Hera, the wife of Jupiter, although the name clearly links her to Iris, Goddess of the rainbow. It seems that this beautiful and regal flower symbolized archetypal purity and sanctity and thus became associated with many different female deities.

Medicinal:
Orris root is used in treatment of dropsy and other water retention problems. It is also used sometimes for bronchitis, coughs, and sore throat; for colic; and for congestion in the liver. Relieves shortness of breath, resists poisoning, starts menses as a uterine stimulant, and reduces bruises if used externally.

Magical:
Orris root is popular in love charms and used in sachets, powders or amulets designed to attract the opposite sex. In Japan, it was used to ward off evil spirits. In incense blends it can be used to invoke the Goddess Iris, who helps the souls of the departed on their journey across the rainbow bridge to the land of the blessed.

Also Called: Florentine Iris, Queen Elizabeth Root
1 Oz
$4.00
Osha Root - Ligusticum porteri

Osha, a member of the parsley family that is also known as ‘bear root’, is native to the Rocky Mountains.
The plant grows extremely slowly, as it is dependent on a symbiotic relationship with certain soil fungi. Attempts to cultivate it outside its natural habitat have failed.

According to a Navajo legend the Navajo learnt about the use of this plant from the bears, who seek it out, eat the roots and also rub themselves with it.
The whole plant is edible and has a pungent and complex celery-like flavor. However, it can easily be mistaken for Poison Hemlock and Water Hemlock, which share the same habitat.
The older the roots, the more pungent and powerful they are. The roots must be dried before use, as they can cause blistering when fresh.

Traditional
Native healers considered Osha a power plant.
As it is only partially water soluble it is best chewed or taken as tincture.
Osha Root induces profuse sweating, so can be used as a diaphoretic to ward off infections such as influenza.
It soothes sore throats and as a syrup, it can be used to treat bronchitis and asthma.
The tea makes a good stomachic bitter that can be used to soothe indigestion and similar complaints.

Magical
This root is said to show the real meaning of love when used as well as attract love, expand your social circle and help you travel safely. Adding a piece of the root to your bathwater will help you feel more attractive and open to receiving love. Once you know you are special you will project that energy out and people will start responding accordingly. Bathing in the water also opens you up deeper spiritually.
You can place a small bit in your shoe or tied to your shoelace during travel to ensure safety and also help with fatigue.

1/2 Oz
$12.00
Pau D' Arco Bark - Handroanthus impetiginosus (Lapacho)

Pau d'Arco, also known as Taheebo, Palo d'Arco or Lapacho is at home in the tropical regions of Central and South America. As a member of the Bignoniaceae or Trumpetflower trees, it is related to the Catalpa, which is a commonly grown decorative garden species, appreciated for its beautiful flowers.

Native tribes of Central and South America have long valued this tree, not only for its strong, fungus and insect resistant wood, but also as a medicine. The Guarani Indians fashion their hunting bows from the wood in the hope that the tree's vigor will be transferred to both, bow and hunter.

The medicinal use of Pau d'Arco is most common in Brazil where it is regarded as a virtual panacea.
Medical practitioners began to take note, when a hospital doctor started to treat his dying brother, who was suffering from cancer, with this herb. Apparently, his treatment was successful and soon other doctors at the clinic joined his empirical research.
Subsequent clinical research has focused on isolated constituents of Pau d'Arco, as these can be more easily standardized and patented. However, these studies produced unsatisfactory results and were soon dropped.
Since then reports on the efficacy of Pau d'Arco have varied widely, ranging from miracle claims, to warnings about potential dangers, leaving even the most discerning user somewhat baffled.

One of the reasons for such variant reporting may be due to the fact that the supply of commercially available Pau d'Arco is not subject to stringent controls. Thus, a number of related species, some of which have no medicinal uses at all, are all sold as Pau d'Arco and processed into a variety of products, since the inner bark shavings of the red Pau d'Arco tree are a by-product of the timber industry.

Medicinal:
Pau d'Arco is said to have anti-fungal, anti-microbial and immune stimulating properties, which are employed in the treatment of numerous conditions ranging from the common cold to HIV.

Most commonly Pau d'Arco is used to treat Candida, an intestinal yeast infection that often causes vaginitis. It is also used in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome.

The immune response stimulating properties seem to be most prominent at low doses. Not all active constituents of Pau d'Arco are easily soluble in water and the bark must be prepared properly as a decoction. Even so, some herbalists claim that pills or tincture are more effective.

Pau d'Arco is also used as a supportive remedy in kidney and bladder infections and to treat rheumatism and arthritis. Some people appear to have had good results when using this herb as an anti-cancer agent, though it is difficult to verify such reports.

Magical:
Native shamans use Pau d'Arco in energizing aphrodisiac concoctions and as an adjunct plant in Ayahuasca brews. It is used in healing rituals and is generally regarded as rejuvenating tonic.

1 Oz
$3.00
Poke Root - Phytolacca americana

Traditional
Due to its powerful and potentially dangerous nature it is best to use this herb only under professional guidance.

It is considered a potent immune system stimulant and lymphatic decongestant.
Native Americans predominantly used this herb as an external remedy for various skin conditions, sores, ulcers and even cancer and other tumors

. For internal use it is taken in miniscule doses to stimulate the immune system to fight infectious diseases (e.g. flu, strep throat etc.) and to clear congestion in the glands and lymphatic system. It has been noted to be useful in cases of mastitis and breast cancer.

Magical
The root can be worn as an amulet for protection.

NOTE: Do not use during pregnancy.
1 Oz
$3.50
Red Willow Bark

Red willow bark is a primary ingredient in most native smoking mixes. This bark is the basic ingredient of traditional Plains Indian smoking mixtures.
Known as the “canasa” to the Lakota, Red Willow Bark is a spiritually important herb within the Native American culture.

Red Willow Bark is seasonal, and is only gathered after hard freezes in the fall and only until the first Thunder sounds in the spring or when the trees sap production decreases. It comes from the inner bark of the Red Osier Dogwood tree. The bark has a sweet woodsy aroma.

Native American uses of Red Willow Bark

  • Smoking Mixture: Red Willow can be smoked by itself or blended with tobacco and other herbs like bearberry, osha, and sumac. Used alone*, the bark produces a mild and pleasant smelling smoke; when mixed with tobacco**, this woodsy smelling smoke adds depth to the overall aroma.
  • Sacred Pipe: When combined with tobacco and smoked in a sacred pipe, this dried bark has been used to end conflicts between individuals or seal agreements between leaders of different groups. Used with the sacred pipe, Red Willow can also be used to make offerings to the spirits during times of prayer.
*Red Willow smoke is not addictive like tobacco. It has not been found to cause mood alteration or other psychogenic activity.

Ideal season for Red Willow Bark: Winter
Red Willow Bark is an especially popular herb at this time of year, as it is usually gathered during the winter months “when thunder is not present” (or when the tree’s sap production decreases); typically between the first frost and the first thunderstorm of the spring.

Medicinal Uses of Red Willow Bark
Red willow bark is a popular medicinal plant used by Native Americans in many forms. It can be made into tea or tincture, or can be chewed raw. It can also be smoked or puffed like a tobacco or cigarette for effects in the lungs, air passage, stomach, eyes, ears and the bloodstream. Although the effectiveness and safety of red willow bark has not been proven, many Native Americans regularly make use of the plant.

  • Remedy for Coughs, Colds and Fevers: The red willow bark is often made into tea as a remedy for colds. It is also used as an emetic for coughs and fevers. The bark is boiled in water, then the decoction is strained and drunk warm.
    According to Fredda Paul, a member of the Passamaquoddy who practices traditional tribal medicine, smoking red willow rolled into a cigarette is effective in cleansing the body and relieving coughs and colds as it goes directly into the lungs and into the bloodstream.
  • Relieving Headaches and Migraines: As a relief for headaches and migraines, the red willow bark is usually mixed with wild sage then smoked a couple of puffs at a time every two hours. It can also be taken as a tincture or tea. Apart from relieving headaches and migraines, its relaxing effects help those suffering from insomnia to get a good night's sleep.
  • Relieving Nausea: Whether ingested or smoked, red willow bark opens the liver and digestive organs, allowing the settling of a queasy stomach almost instantly. A couple of puffs can help relieve nausea. It is also used by people who just underwent chemotherapy to relieve nausea and promote a better physical state.
  • Eye and Ear Medicine: Chewing on the dry bark of red willow can be an excellent medicine for the eyes. It can help heal pink eye or conjunctivitis, as well as improve eye function for those suffering from cataracts and macular degeneration. The bark can also be infused into extra-virgin olive oil. The oil mixture is strained carefully and refrigerated prior to use, then one drop is used to massage the eye or eyelid every morning and evening.
1/2 Oz
Out of Stock
$17.00
Rhodiola rosea

Rhodiola is a member of the stonecrop family, known for its fleshy leaves and hardy nature - a characteristic they share with the related sedums. It is at home in mountainous regions throughout Eurasia. In Europe, it can be found at about 2500 msl, an altitude at which few plants can survive. In the Himalaya, it climbs even higher, to an elevation of about 3500-5000 msl.

The root has a golden-yellow skin, which has given rise to its alternative name, ’Golden Root’. But beneath the outer skin the root is pinkish in color, and has a rose-like scent, alluded to in its species name. Although Diosocorides had mentioned Rhodiola in his Herbal, ‘De Materia Medica’, which dates back to about AD 50-70, the plant has not been widely used in Central European herbal medicine. (The related Houseleek was more common and more frequently used). Its remote habitat and scarcity meant that it was difficult to obtain, and supplies were uncertain. Its use in folk medicine was, however, very much established in Scandinavia, Siberia, as well as in the Himalayan regions of Asia, where it is more common.

Medicinal
In Chinese medicine, Rhodiola is known as Hong Jing Tian, which translates as ‘Red’ Heavenly View’ alluding to its color and its growing range in the high mountains. In TCM, its character is described as ‘cool, dry and bitter’. It is said to have an affinity with the liver, and the lungs, which is why it is used as a blood tonic, and to balance the yin and yang energies of the human body. It is considered a useful remedy to treat inflammatory conditions of the lungs. As a blood tonic, it is used to boost endurance, and stamina in times of stress. Modern western herbal medicine values it as an ‘adaptogen’, a class of tonics that affect the endocrine system in such a way as to adjust the homeostasis of the body when it has become unbalanced due to physical or mental stress.

Magical
Rhodiola is nothing if not resilient, choosing its ecological niche in some of the harshest environments on earth. Thus, it can be used as an agent of resilience, imparting its strength and endurance to those that are taxed by mental exhaustion and fatigue. It is also said to bring restful sleep and to disempower the demons of nightmares.

Synonyms: Rose root, Hong Jing Tian

20g
$5.00
Rowan Bark

The Rowan tree has a long, sacred history.
Since ancient times people have been planting a Rowan beside their home as in Celtic mythology it’s known as the Tree of Life and symbolizes courage, wisdom and protection.

Another legend tells us how the Rowan tree bent over a fast-flowing river and rescued Thor from being swept away into the Underworld.

The wood is strong and resilient, and has, since ancient times, been used to make protective crosses tied with red thread. The Rowan tree’s timber has also been used for carving rune staves, walking sticks, and was especially treasured for its divining properties.

The bark is used much like Witch Hazel for its Astringent Properties. .a decoction (tea) of the bark is given for diarrhea and used as a vaginal injection in leucorrhoea, etc. It also was used to treat Fevers and as an anti-malarial

1 Oz
$2.00
Sandalwood (Pure) - Powdered

NOTE: This is pure Yellow Sandalwood Powder!

Sandalwood Benefits for Skin:
There is a wide range of medicinal properties of sandalwood that makes it the best and most reliable of home remedies for face and all types of skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and ringworm rash treatment.

  • Anti-tanning Property – Sandalwood paste is one of the best clear skin remedies that can be used to sooth harsh sunburns and clear skin tanning. The natural oils in sandalwood naturally clear skin complexion and add a healthy glow to it.
  • Anti-aging Property – The toning effect of sandalwood helps in shrinking skin pores that provides an even skin texture and prevents sagging and aging skin. It tightens the drooping skin tissues in order to provide a supple and youthful appearance to the skin.

Metaphysical:
its most endearing use is as a fragrant base of numerous incense blends. It is said to balance the chakras and to enable the soul to reach the highest spiritual planes in meditation.

1 Oz
$3.50
Sarsaparilla Root (Wildcrafted) - Smilax medica (Smilax ornata)

This plant is a member of the Greenbrier family and native to tropical and temperate parts of the world and comprises about 210 species worldwide.
It is native to South America, Jamaica, the Caribbean, Mexico, Honduras, and the West Indies.
The name sarsaparilla is not surprisingly a derivation of the Spanish words that describe the plant; zarza (bramble or bush), parra (vine), and illa (small)—a small, brambled vine.

For centuries, indigenous people around the world used the root of the sarsaparilla plant for treating joint problems like arthritis, and for healing skin problems like psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis. The root was also thought to cure leprosy due to its “blood-purifying” properties.

It is reported to have anti-inflammatory, testosterogenic, aphrodisiac and progesterogenic effects.
Sarsaparilla was also commonly used to flavor Root Beer after the use of Sassafras was discontinued.

1 Oz
$4.00
Sassafrass Bark of Root - Sassafras albidum
1 Oz NOTE: Our Sassafras is the whole, unprocessed form, which contains safrole, this is not recommended for long term internal use by the FDA
$8.50
Slippery Elm - Ulmus rubra

Slippery Elm derives from the inner bark of an American species of Elm known as Red Elm.
Although Elm was also used in Europe and is even mentioned by Dioscorides, the use of this plant is more common in the United States and the UK, where it was introduced via the Native American Materia Medica.
Elms have become quite a rare sight since the outbreak of the Dutch Elm disease wiped out huge populations of these trees. The fact, that it is the inner bark that is collected for medicinal use, which effectively kills the trees, does not bode well for their future, especially since Dutch Elm disease has also ravaged large populations in the United States and Canada. At present Red Elm is being considered for inclusion in the CITES list, so recent conservation efforts to ensure a sustainable harvest don't come a moment too soon.
Slippery Elm was one of the original herbs included in the famous Essiac mixture, the herbal anti-cancer formula devised by the Canadian nurse Rene Caisse.

Medicinal:
The main benefit of Slippery Elm is its soothing mucilaginous quality, which is equally comforting for a range of inner conditions as it is as an external application.

Internally Slippery Elm soothes a sore throat like no other herb and can be a veritable life saver for singers. It is also excellent as a pacifier for the digestive system when this is in a state of upheaval. It lines the entire length of the mucous membrane of the tract thus reducing any possible irritation, such as may occur when stomach juices come in contact with ulcerated tissue. Thus it can be used in all types of irritable bowel or stomach conditions, ulcers, colitis and similar complaints.
Slippery Elm powder also has actual nutritious properties, which makes it suitable as a food for convalescence, either by itself or mixed with other foods, which it will help to keep down.
Slippery Elm also soothes an irritated urinary tract and may be helpful in inflammatory conditions of the bladder and kidneys.

Externally, Slippery Elm is an excellent herb for poultices to soothe sore and inflamed skin conditions such as diaper rash and sores. Native Americans also use it in combination with other herbs as a wound dressing or to treat burns, boils and ulcers.

Magical: There are no specific magical uses associated with Slippery Elm, however it may be of great service when attending ceremonies that demand long hours of chanting and praying.

1 Oz
$6.00
Soapwort Root (Powdered) - Saponaria officinalis

Soapwort is a pretty little wildflower of the Carnation family that commonly grows in wet meadows and ditches. Native to Europe and Britain, it came to the United States with the first settlers, who most likely used it as a soap plant where it quickly spread and naturalized in its new habitat.

Soapwort contains saponins, which in conjunction with water create a soft, gentle lather. This property was widely used in times gone by, not just as a ready soap supply for washing clothes, but also as a particularly gentle natural shampoo for dry, easily breaking hair.
Sheep farmers in the Alps also used it to wash their sheep prior to sheering!

Today Soapwort is used in some cosmetics, such as soaps and shampoos, and as a particularly gentle agent for restoring old and fragile textiles.

Traditional:
This herb is no longer used internally in herbal medicine due to the potentially toxic nature of saponins.

In the past it was used as an expectorant, laxative and cholagogue. It was also used for syphilis and other venereal diseases.

Externally it may be used as a shampoo for fragile hair or as a wash for bruises and afflictions of the skin.

Magical:
Soapwort is not noted for any particular magical uses, but it could be employed as cleansing herb to add to a ritual bath or to wash ceremonial apparel.

Other names: Bruise wort, bouncing bet, sweet Betty, wild sweet William, Fuller’s herb, latherwort, lady's washbowl
1 Oz
$6.00
Solomon Seal Root - Polygonatum Odoratum

Magical Attributes
Solomon's Seal is associated with the planet Saturn and the element water.

Solomon's Seal aids one in making difficult decisions and accepting and seeking change. Helps in spell work to aid changing/breaking habits and helps in smooth transitions for changes beyond our control. It is also used in love potions to amplify commitment between partners and to "seal" a spell or a sacred oath or promise.

An infusion of Solomon's Seal, or incense made of Solomon's Seal root can both be used to drive away negative vibrations and malicious spirits. It can also be used to summon helpful spirits and elementals.

The root can be carried as an amulet to ward off malicious spirits and to increase wisdom.

Solomon Seal is appropriate for use during Autumnal Equinox rituals.

Healing Attributes
The fresh root, pounded and applied topically helps fade bruising. (I have not tried this on a hickey, but it might work for that too.) A decoction can also be used as a facial rinse to help fade blemishes or for poison ivy and similar skin problems. An infusion can be used for profuse menstruation and internal bleeding, indigestion and other stomach and digestive complaints including ulcers, bowel problems and hemorrhoids. It is also said to speed the healing of broken bones. Used as a mouthwash, it is said to help strengthen gums.

Solomon's Seal root tea is a good tonic acting on the kidneys, heart and sexual organs as well as soothing the digestive system.

Oil infused with Solomon's Seal root is good to keep on hand for first aid treatment of sprains, strains and broken or bruised bones. (Not to replace, but to enhance modern medical intervention.) Solomon's Seal root tea or tincture aids in the repair of broken bones and may be drunk after a doctor has set the break. It is also great for torn ligaments, dislocations and other issues with joints

1 Oz
$4.00
Spikenard Root (American) - Aralia racemosa

Spikenard was originally used by a number of Native American groups including the Cherokees, Shawnees, and the Micmacs.
Today, this Ginseng relative is commonly used as a respiratory tonic and traditional blood purifier.

Spikenard is an enduring respiratory rescue remedy usually combined with Wild Cherry and Elecampane. The versatile root is also a high valued alternative to Sarsaparilla for promoting healthy skin and is an important cleansing herb.

Magical: Spikenard can be a great healer, and attract good luck. Used with herbs for love, Spikenard will promote fidelity, and incite proposals of marriage.

NOTE: The Spikenard mentioned in the Bible used for anointing is is a different herb (Nardostachys jatamansi)
1 Oz
$6.00
Spikenard Root (Indian ) - Nardostachys Jatamansi

A sacred healing herb of old - Spikenard was considered precious even in Biblical times, when Mary Magdalene used it to anoint Jesus' feet at the last supper. No wonder it was precious, coming all the way from the foothills of the Himalayas, which in biblical times might as well have been somewhere near the gates to the Garden of Eden. Its Hindu name 'Jatamansi' means 'lock of hair' in allusion to the hairy rhizome, which is the source of the essential oil. Spikenard is a member of the Valerian family and in Ayurveda it is used similarly to Valerian in western herbalism. Throughout Asia, Spikenard is highly valued as an incense ingredient. In the West it is still shrouded in mystery and just as precious as it was in biblical times, though not on account of its distant origins. Sadly, its preciousness today is related to its rarity, which stems from the fact that it is being over-harvested in the wild. Luckily some cultivated sources are becoming available, so maybe this ancient sacred herb may have a chance to survive in the wild.

Spikenard is an immune system booster; it calms the body and allows it to function properly. Spikenard is a natural hypotensive, so it naturally lowers blood pressure. Elevated blood pressure is when the pressure on the arteries and blood vessels becomes too high and the arterial wall becomes distorted, causing extra stress on the heart. Long term-high blood pressure increases the risk of stroke, heart attack and diabetes.

Using spikenard is a natural remedy for high blood pressure because it dilates the arteries, acts as an antioxidant to reduce oxidative stress and decreases emotional stress. Spikenard also relieves inflammation, which is the culprit for a host of diseases and illnesses.

A 2012 study conducted in India found that spikenard rhizomes (the stems of the plant) exhibited high reduction capability and powerful free radical scavenging. Free radicals are very dangerous to the body’s tissues and have been connected to cancer and premature aging; the body uses antioxidants to prevent itself from the damage caused by oxygen.
Like all high antioxidant foods and plants, they protect our bodies from inflammation and fight free radical damage, keeping our systems and organs running properly.

1 Oz
$7.00
Valerian Root -Valeriana officinalis

Caution is advised during the use of barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and other sedative drugs, as valerian has the potential to increase the effects of some sedatives.

Pliny aptly named this herb 'Phu', a most descriptive term to summarize its scent. However, only the dried root smells 'phu', and even here, it must be said, tastes differ: cats, rats and even trout apparently find it irresistible and go crazy over it. The Pied Piper probably didn't so much lure the rats and mice of Hamlin with his music, but with a secret stash of Valerian that he had hidden in his pockets. According to old angler's yarn, treating bait with Valerian will ensure a good catch.

Valerian is related to Spikenard (Jatamansi), the legendary anointing oil. The ancients called it 'all-heal' and thought highly of its powers as a healing and magical herb. It also figured as a key ingredient of Theriak, the miracle panacea of the Middle Ages, which was used for a wide range of ills. The name 'Valerian' is derived by association with the Germanic smith-god Wieland (aka 'Wayland smithy'), who used this herb for all kinds of healing and magic practices. Folklore has it that if one puts a little Valerian under the tongue and kisses the girl of one's dreams, 'she will surely be smitten' As a powerful magical herb, Valerian was of course also capable of warding off witches and to undo their evil works.

Medicinal:
Valerian is a wonderful herb for the nervous system. It is a relaxing and restorative nerve tonic that brings a sense of cool, calm serenity to the scene.
It is excellent for treating 'the jitters' and even more severe cases such as hysteria, panic, anxiety and shock, as well as insomnia, tension, restlessness and nervous exhaustion.
It can be helpful in tension headaches and promotes a deep, restful sleep. By releasing tension that has become locked in the smooth muscles it can be used in all cases where nervous tension results in cramps and blockage. Thus, it may also be effective in aphrodisiac blends for people who suffer frigidity or impotence caused by fear and inhibition.

Magical:
Valerian can be used for exorcism and counter magic.
It is said to protect against lightning and against the evil sorcery.
Valerian is an herb of peace. If two people drink Valerian infused wine from the same cup they will immediately stop to fight and argue.
Valerian can be used as an offering to the Goddess Bast, and may be the perfect gift to delight your feline familiar or ally.
Valerian is sometimes used as an aphrodisiac, though its action is relaxing rather than stimulating.

1 Oz
$5.00
Vetiver Root - Vetiveria zizanioides

Related to the family of fragrant grasses that also gives us Citronella and Palmarosa, Vetiver surprises with the depth and darkness of its scent, which some people love, but others find offensive.
Indian poets liken its scent to the smell of the first monsoon rains that rejuvenate the earth. It certainly smells earthy and acts grounding on those who walk with their heads in the clouds.
It aids concentration and heightens awareness.
In Ayurveda it is mostly used for skin care preparations.
In the West it is not employed in herbal medicine, but is widely used as a fixative in perfumery.

Medicinal:
Effective for vomiting, diarrhea etc. and is cooling and refreshing. It purifies blood, removes body odor and excessive sweating
. Beds made of vetiver root can be used for patients suffering from rheumatism and back pain.

Magical Use:
Vetiver is an excellent grounding herb that protects those who do a lot of channeling and psychic work from loosing touch with reality and the more earthy aspects of life.
Vetiver can be used to meditate on the laws of manifestation and prosperity. It can be used for meditation to increase awareness and aid concentration.

1 Oz
$4.50
White Ginseng Root - Panax Ginseng
** NOTE 1/2 Oz **

The Chinese have cherished this plant, which they believe holds the keys to the secret of life, for thousands of years. The root is considered a panacea, a tonic for the whole system that ensures vitality, longevity and increased sexual vigor. Modern science, although begrudgingly acknowledging the beneficial effects of Ginseng, cannot actually find the 'active compound' that is supposed to be responsible for these life enhancing qualities. Instead, it has found a great number of apparently contradictory saponin triterpenoid glycosides called 'ginsenosides', which seem to cancel out each others actions. Western researchers thus conclude that Ginseng 'can't possibly have any beneficial effects'. The Chinese doctor on the other hand, concludes that this represents proof of Ginseng's balanced yin and yang forces, which are able to restore equilibrium by balancing any deficiency in either yin or yang within the body, as needed. In other words, they consider it an adaptogen. Almost all Chinese herbal compounds contain Ginseng. Experts indulge in a veritable 'science of ginsengology' claiming different uses and actions for each part of the root and method of preparation, of which there are many: dried, sugared, boiled, steamed, extracted with alcohol or even added to soups, to name but a few. Ginseng - the 'man root' is a true elixir of life.

Medicinal: Ginseng is a tonic that not only improves a wide variety of ailments, but also acts as a preventative. Chinese medicine includes Ginseng in numerous formulas for its overall balancing effects. Ginseng is used whenever the body is exposed to environmental, emotional or mental stress. Stress has many negative effects on the body, but one of the worst and most insidious ones is the over-stimulation and subsequent exhaustion of the adrenal glands. When stress exerts its negative effects for too long the adrenaline levels become depleted and the gland's ability to produce it is also diminished. As a result the body lacks the energy it needs to face even ordinary stress situations, becomes fatigued, unable to concentrate, emotionally unstable and easily depressed while simultaneously the immune system is also weakened. The normal sex drive is reduced and the individual shows neither lust nor luster.

Ginseng improves the function of the adrenal gland and thus helps the body to cope with these manifold symptoms of stress. Ginseng also improves the circulation and strengthens the heart. Improved circulation means improved blood supply and better functioning of the organs. All of these properties show that Ginseng's reputation as an overall tonic is more than justified.

In Chinese medicine it is often given in compound mixtures that address a particular part or function of the body, e.g. Ginseng and Ginkgo are said to be an ideal combination for mental stress, and to improve memory and the ability to concentrate. Ginseng is especially recommended for ailments associated with old age, but in this day and age where stress has become a way of life, it would be a good choice for anybody that wants to offset the negative effects of the rat-race before serious long-term consequences have actually started to manifest as chronic conditions.

It can be taken on a daily basis as tolerance is generally considered very good.

Magical Ginseng is used in healing rituals and as an amulet for good health, vitality, stamina, endurance and longevity. It is also said to bring good luck, fertility and abundance.
1/2 Oz
$10.00
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