Fruit Peel / Berries

Allspice berries derive from a tropical member of the myrtle family. It seems as though this tree couldn't quite make up its mind as to how it wanted to smell and so combined a bit of Clove with a bit of Cinnamon and a touch of Pepper. The combination works very well and Allspice smells beautifully spicy, yet less overpowering than either Clove or Cinnamon.

In its native Caribbean and South American homelands, Allspice leaves and berries have long been used as a kitchen spice and herbal remedy. It was the first spice that was ever brought back to Europe from the New World. It soon gained popularity in the Old World too, and not just as a spice. Up until the last century it was official in the European pharmacopoeias. Herbal medicine rarely uses it now, but aromatherapy is bringing it back to public awareness.

Allspice is used for indigestion, intestinal gas, abdominal pain, heavy menstrual periods, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, colds, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. It is also used for emptying the bowels.

Magical:
Allspice can be used to break spells and protect against evil influences. It can help break bad habits or inertia and generally boosts willpower, courage and energy. It may help clear energy blockages and can be used to potentate any work of magic. It stimulates the base chakra and can be used in sex magic. It can also be used in healing rituals and for money spells.

Caxixanath - mysterious flower' is the Maya name for the sacred Vanilla vine. Vanilla is a climbing orchid species, native to the rainforests of Central America. It drapes itself around its host tree in a hugging embrace. The flowers, which only remain open for 24 hours, are fertilized by a tiny species of hummingbird and by the stingless Mexican bee. The ensuing pod is not actually fragrant until it is fermented, which can take up to six months after they are picked. The Mayans have always regarded the rich, sensuously alluring aroma as an aphrodisiac and used it as a stimulating perfume. When the Spaniards 'discovered' Vanilla they quickly caught on to its use and when they brought it back to the Old World, they touted it as a highly potent aphrodisiac. It also became popular as a spice, but the high cost made it a luxury item for chefs, which it still is today. Modern technology has made it possible to synthesize Vanilla artificially, but neither the scent, nor flavor or effect are quite the same as those of the real thing.

Medicinal: Western herbalism no longer uses Vanilla beans medicinally however In Central America Maya healers consider it a powerful aphrodisiac that relaxes the nerves and stimulates the senses. Thus it is given in cases of hysteria, mental or sexual exhaustion, as well as for tension and free floating anxiety.

Magical: Vanilla can be used as a perfume to honor the Great Goddess of Love and for sex magic. It may be included in love philtres, lotions and potions to attract a lover or to rouse passion. It also stimulates the mind and may be used to enhance creativity.

**NOTE: These have been roasted but they are unsweetened (closer to a bakers chocolate) . If you desire more sweetness we suggest adding Stevia or Sugar as well.

These are all single-source, straight from Ecuador, made from the cacao beans of older, "original" cacao plants, organic and raw.

Just as importantly, this is perhaps some of the finest cacao you will ever taste in the world. It is one of life's "bucket list" experiences to ingest this plant and tune in to how it is interacting with your body and mind. These have absolutely no sweeteners, no filler, no preservatives, no GMOs, no soy, no wheat... nothing! Just pure, raw high-grade cacao from Ecuador to you.

Premium Ecuadorian Superior Cocoa Nibs are a nutrient dense superfood, high in health-promoting flavonoids, flavanols, zinc, protein and minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium, and chromium (helps balance, control, and even help lower blood sugar levels and reduce appetite). High Source of Antioxidants, including polyphenols (good for teeth, helps prevent cavities and tooth decay), catechins and epicatechins.

Great food for Cardiovascular system and can enhance energy.. theobromine, a stimulant naturally present, maintains energy levels all throughout the day unlike the dreaded caffeine crash.

Versatile Kitchen Ingredient - Use in cookies, brownies, baked goods, candy and cake, as an alternative to chocolate chips. Make your own healthy snacks or granola bars, blend in smoothies, shakes, desserts, ice cream, cereal, yogurt, drinks, green drink mixes or even sprinkle on salads and normal hot foods for a savory treat. Use in cookbook recipes as you would conventional chocolate chips.

Natural Source of Anandamine. Great Mood Enhancer. Calms anxiety, stress levels and makes you feel good.

"Arriba" actually refers to a geographic region within Ecuador where high-grade cacao plants were grown and harvested, but it also became synonymous with the high quality of cacao from that region in much the same way that "Bordeaux" is actually a wine-producing region of France that soon become synonymous with a specific variety of wine, whether or not it was from the Bordeaux region.

For that reason, the term "Arriba" means different things to different people, even within the cacao industry, to some, it's a genetic variety of older cacao trees, to others, it's a geographic region. I'm using it here to refer to a higher-grade cacao from older Ecuadorian cacao trees, most of which (but not all) originated in the Arriba region near the Guayas River. This is widely considered to be the finest cacao from Ecuador, harvested from older cacao trees growing just the way they grew thousands of years ago.

In comparison, virtually all the Chocolate used in candy bars, chocolate chips, chocolate cakes, breads and so on is derived from a new, genetically divergent plant called CCN-51 -- a pale shadow of the original cacao tree it was supposed to replace.

Most consumers have no idea the chocolate they've been eating is made with what is effectively a weakened cacao variety. And if you've been eating that variety of chocolate all your life, you're in for a real surprise when you get your hands on what I'm calling "Arriba Nacional" cacao, which has a deeper, more complex and "floral" flavor profile than common cacao varieties.

*****Caution: Agnus Castus should not be used during pregnancy.***

More bush than tree, this graceful bush looks a bit like a cross between a buddleia and a hemp plant, with its purple flower cones, and soft, five-fingered leaves.

Nomen est Omen, as the saying goes, and this is certainly true of this misconceived member of the Vervain family. Its common names, 'chasteberry', 'monkspepper' and 'chaste lamb tree', all suggest its virtuous nature and possible use to quench the desires of the flesh. Indeed, historical records are full with such recommendations, albeit, some make claims to the contrary. Monks used it to suppress all wicked urges and nuns would line their bedding with the leaves in the hopes that the herb would help them maintain their innocence and withstand their own sexual desires. Funny though, that in Morocco the very same herb was used to the opposite effect.

In order to penetrate the mystery it is necessary to examine the historical context: In the days of antiquity Agnus Castus played an important role in the female mysteries of Demeter and Persephone/ Kore celebrated during the festival of Thesmophoria, which honored the cycles of renewal and fertility. During the 3 day 'women's only' festival it was customary to use Agnus Castus leaves as bedding since they were thought to increase fertility and enhance a woman's receptivity to the life-giving powers of the Goddess. Due to the fact that men were absent from these festivities Agnus Castus later became wrongly associated with chastity, rather than fertility. Dioscorides even goes so far as to suggest the plant's ability to induce chastity was due to its scent, which he surmised, would keep any potential suitors at bay.

Furthermore, the classical Greek name 'agnos' had a similar ring as the word 'hagnoacute;s', which translates as 'chaste', and so the conclusion that 'agnos makes hagnos' followed quite naturally. When translated into Latin this word spins a further association - 'agnos' to Roman ears sounded very close to their 'agnus', which translates as 'lamb' and in turn conjured up the image of an innocent, chaste little lamb, which enjoys continued popularity as one of the best loved popular icons of Christianity, and from which Agnus Castus derived its other, curious common name 'Chase Lamb Tree' - a convoluted path of mistaken identity for herb that was originally associated with fertility magic.

Traditional Despite this 'chastity' connotation, Agnus Castus always enjoyed the reputation as a well respected woman's herb that was known to regulate the ups and downs of the monthly cycle. It appears that it does so by influencing the pituitary gland, which in turn regulates the reproductive hormones. The German Commission E confirmed this historical use and classifies Agnus Castus as a safe herb to use in any conditions that are caused by hormonal imbalances, such as PMS, bloating, tender or painful breasts, moodiness, depression, headaches, acne etc as well as menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats. Studies have also shown that women who have difficulties conceiving because of hormonal disturbances may benefit from the use of Agnus Castus.

Magical Agnus Castus can be used in the celebrations of the female mysteries and to honor the Goddess Demeter and Persephone. It can be used in fertility magic and initiation rituals or to reaffirm one's vows of commitment to the Goddess. It increases psychic receptivity and is supportive magical herb during times of spiritual transformation and renewal, where it will help the practitioner to get in touch with his/her core self.

The Elder-tree is one of the most common and most beloved plants of the old world countryside. The Celts knew it as 'scobiém'and revered it as Mother Elder, an earthly manifestation of the Great Goddess, who presided over both life and death. Her trees represented a gateway to the 'Otherworld' and on Midsummer nights, sensitive individuals could 'see' the little folk- if they sat under an Elder-tree. Lore: Folklore and folk medicine is full of lore about this remarkable tree. It has been called 'the apothecary of the country people', for every part of the plant was used in various ways and in a multitude of remedies. However, the berries are slightly toxic and should not be consumed raw in large amounts. An oil pressed from the seeds is used in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry. The skin of the dark blackish-blue berries contains the pigment Sambicyanin, which has been shown to act as a free radical scavenger. In the old days the pigment was used as a coloring agent for dyeing hair, leather or wool. Today, the berries are widely used for making country wine and hedgerow jam. They have sometimes been used to adulterate port wine - with the unintended positive effect of fortifying the wine and giving it a tonic effect. Medicinal: The berries are very rich in vitamins, minerals and radical scavenging pigments thus they make an excellent immune system boosting elixir and can be used as syrup, soup, juice or alcoholic elixir. Regular doses help to fend of colds and flus and aid the recovery process. They also contain anti-inflammatory agents, which can reduce the painful swellings that characterize rheumatic and arthritic joints. Magical Wine made of Elderberries is an appropriate ritual offering for ceremonies that honor those who have gone before us and to attune to the transformational powers of the Great Goddess, who presides over life and death. The berries can also be used for making magical ink, and as a dye for the altar cloth and rope.

Goji berries have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years. Some legends report that goji berries were eaten by monks in the Himalayan Mountains thousands of years ago and steeped in hot water to help aid meditation and obtain greater health, vitality, longevity, energy and stamina, among other goji berry benefits.

Low in calories, fat-free, a good source of fiber and a high-antioxidant food, goji berry benefits include the ability to help you fight disease, effectively manage your weight and experience better digestion. Usually eaten raw, dried, or in liquid or powder form, versatile goji berries contain a wide range of phytonutrients, vitamins and trace minerals, giving them the name “superfood berries” by many health experts.

In fact, according a study published by the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, goji berry benefits include experiencing …

" increased ratings for energy levels, athletic performance, quality of sleep, ease of awakening, ability to focus on activities, mental acuity, calmness, feelings of health, contentment, and happiness and significantly reduced fatigue and stress."

Grapefruit is a relatively modern fruit, the hybridized offspring that resulted from an illicit affair between a pumelo and an orange tree.

It was first described by Griffith Hughes in 1750, who called it 'the forbidden fruit of Barbados'. Thus, it is a true New World crop. Its cultivation quickly spread north to the warm areas of the United States. The trees are semi-hardy, though they die back in severe frost, they later miraculously recovering and spring back to life without apparent damage. Such 'reborn' trees are even capable of bearing fruit again. Claim to fame as the northernmost fruit bearing grapefruit tree goes to 'Aunt Queeny', which was grown from seed and survives - year round - outside, in a sheltered spot of the Chelsea Physicke's Garden in London.

Grapefruit are primarily valued as a fruit that is very rich in vitamin C content and is said to have cancer protective properties. It also lowers the blood sugar and it is often promoted as a diet aid. The seed extract is strongly anti-biotic and anti-fungal and has become the number one natural preservative. Grapefruits can have interactions with synthetic medicines. The essential oil is extracted by cold pressing of the peel. Grapefruit oil has photosensitizing properties.

Grapefruit Peel is derived from Citrus paradisi - the same common grapefruit that you have eaten at breakfast for years. It is not a true herb, but rather the dried peelings that are commonly discarded as a waste product, used for commercial cattle feed, or converted into ethanol. Despite the fact that Grapefruit Peel is not particularly exotic nor glamorous like some herbs, it is nonetheless a very useful herbal supplement.

Like its relatives, the orange, lemon, lime and kumquat, Grapefruit Peel is a rich source of Vitamin C and antioxidant nutrients. Using a lemon zester, Grapefruit Peel can be made into thin strips, cooked in a sugar syrup and made into a unique and actually nutritious form of candy that is not overly sweet and is fine for an after-dinner treat with strong black coffee.

Grapefruit Peel is also a rich source of pectin, which is used in the making of jams and other fruit preserves. Grapefruit Peel derived from the pink and red varieties are particularly rich in the antioxidant known as lycopene. Grapefruit is primarily used for its effect on cellulites and water retention. It is also valued in aromatherapy skin care products for its skin toning and cleansing properties, which are especially useful for oily or congested skin and acne. It is also great to lift the spirit and provide support in stress related conditions, fatigue, depression and nervous exhaustion.

Magical As a 'newcomer', Grapefruit does not have a long established history in magical aromatherapy, which does not mean to say that it is not potent. On the contrary, Grapefruit can be used like other citrus fruit, but will provide even more 'punch'. It is energizing and purifying and can be used for ritual cleansing and healing rites. It awakens the senses and promotes mental clarity. It signifies inner strength and resilience in adversity and is an appropriate for initiation rituals to aid the renewal of the soul.

Hawthorn trees are one of those 'in between' species, that can't quite decide whether to be a bush or a tree.
Old trees can grow quite tall, up to 12 m, but Hawthorn is most commonly found in hedges, where it rarely grows above 5m.
Thanks to its thorny branches they make an effective natural barrier, warding off intruders while simultaneously providing a protective wildlife habitat.
Some trees are said to have reached the ripe old age of 500 years, but even relatively young ones often give the impression of being ancient grandmother trees.
A heady, almost narcotic and somewhat musky scent exudes from the flowers, as anyone who has ever held a siesta underneath a Hawthorn tree will recall.
By autumn the flowers have turned into bunches of red glowing, oval fruit that superficially resemble rosehips. These berries are smaller though, and their taste and texture is rather dry and floury.

Hawthorn has long been regarded a sacred tree in Britain and Ireland, where it was considered a terrible offence to cut a thorn tree down.

In Britain it figures prominently in the Glastonbury Holythorn legend of Joseph of Arimathea, an uncle of Jesus Christ. When he came to Glastonbury he struck his Hawthorn staff into the ground at Wearyall Hill, whereupon it immediately started to set roots and began to flower.
Joseph of Arimathea proceeded to found the first Christian Church in Glastonbury and planted a sprig of this Holy Thorn in the church grounds, where descendants of this very tree can still be seen today.
His Hawthorn had the unusual habit of flowering twice a year, once in May, as all Hawthorns do, and once at Christmas, Christ's birthday. Christian lore also has it that the crown of thorns was made of Hawthorn (this is doubtful however as Hawthorn is not known to grow in the Middle East).
The Druids also held the Hawthorn sacred and associated it with the White Goddess and the month of May.

Medicinal:
Hawthorn berries are an excellent strengthening tonic for the heart and circulatory system.
It can regulate the blood pressure, whether it is too high or too low, and helps in conditions such as mild palpitations, angina pectoris, tight chest and angst resulting from it, as well as for arteriosclerosis.
It improves the circulation, especially the peripheral circulation and thus is an excellent tonic that can help to bring extra oxygen to the head, improving mental and nervous functions.
It may be helpful in cases of tinnitus, dizziness, blurred vision and forgetfulness. However, while Hawthorn is a safe tonic and can be used long term, especially as a strengthening remedy for the elderly, it must be stressed that serious heart problems should always be treated by a qualified medical practitioner.
Hawthorn is also indicated for nervous indigestion and insufficient bowel activity and for kidneys and bladder stones.

Magical:
Magically Hawthorn symbolizes protection and hope. It wards off evil spirits and protects against witches. However, it is also sometimes regarded as a tree of witches, who sometimes may take its shape or rest in thorn trees to prepare themselves for the flight to the Sabbath. Hawthorn establishes a firm boundary between inner world and outer world and may be used by those who have difficulties 'drawing a line' and those who are psychically vulnerable.

According to some paleo ethnobotanists Juniper has been our closest magical plant ally since Neolithic times. Juniper was mentioned in the ancient Egyptian papyri; its fragrant wood, needles and berries were used as incense and medicine.

Juniper is said to have the power to ward off evil. No demons or devils could withstand its power, not even the demons of disease: fumigating a space with Juniper will kill off germs and purify the air in a sick room. When the Black Death ravaged Europe, Juniper was one of the most promising and effective protectors. Yet, it was also considered a guardian of the threshold between this world and the next.

Like Yew, it was thought to nurture the souls of the dead until they were ready to reincarnate. For this reason they were often planted on graves. In Egypt they also played a role in the mysteries of the dead. Juniper berries were found in the sarcophagi and even in the hand of one of the pharaohs, as if he had intended to pay the ferry man with these seeds.

Country folk respected Juniper so highly that they would tip their hats in passing. All sorts of magical powers were ascribed to it: It was said to retrieve lost objects, protect against venomous beasts and guard against spells of faintness and weakness, to name but a few.
Some of these old folk uses certainly are based on empirical evidence. Juniper indeed repels biting bugs and its stimulating properties can "preserve the spirit" and prevent dizziness and weakness. But today, it is another kind of "spirit preservation" Juniper is best known for: it contributes its unique flavor to Gin.
Juniper is not frequently encountered in the kitchen these days, though previously it was a common spice, particularly favored for greasy meats.

Medicinal:
Just as Juniper smoke is purifying and cleansing, the berries cleanse the body and protect against infection. The berries act diuretic and diaphoretic. They are specifically indicated for urinary problems and edema, though it should be avoided in cases of acute kidney inflammation.

Juniper is particularly useful for the treatment of arthritis and rheumatism, neuralgia and muscle aches and pains. They strengthen and cleanse the stomach and digestive tract.

Juniper may be used to stimulate menstrual flow, to relieve menstrual cramping and other PMS related symptoms. Juniper is very energizing and restoring and can help coping with nervous exhaustion, mental fatigue, angst and other stressful conditions.

Avoid use during pregnancy.

Magical:
Juniper is a purification plant par excellence. It can be used to cleanse ritual spaces or magical tools. It is strongly protective and dispels negative energies and entities. It is often used as incense in healing rites and to purify the sick room.

During meditation it helps focusing and concentration. It has also been associated with prophecy and divination. Juniper can be used in rites of passage and as a protector on shamanic journeys to the Otherworld. It is an excellent herb for getting in touch with the deities and spirits of nature.

If sunshine could be captured in a fruit it would be a lemon. The zesty aroma just bursts with vibrancy, tickling the soul like a beam of sunlight. The scent of Lemon instantly reminds us of sunny climes and spreads a little bit of Mediterranean ambiance. It is difficult to determine the exact origin of Lemon, so widespread has been his wanderings. It is believed to have originated in India or Southeast Asia, spreading at first to China, where it was cultivated for about 4000 years. From there it found its way to the Arab world, and eventually, to the Roman Empire. Northern Europeans probably first encountered them by the returning Crusaders. By the Middle Ages, Lemons were well known even in England. Yet, their true value as a life-saving antiscorbutic remedy was not realized until the age of the great sea voyages, when it was discovered that sailors who had access to lemons did not fall prey to scurvy. Thus, it became a standard provision to carry Lemons on every long-term sea journey, which is why British sailors became known as 'limeys'.

During the renaissance, the attractive citrus trees with their sweet-scented flowers became very popular with the aristocracy and it became fashionable to grow them far beyond their natural range. Special conservatories had to be built just to shelter the sensitive trees from the harsh northern European winters.

Columbus introduced Lemons to the New World; he took some seeds and planted them in Hispaniola - which may well have been his best deed. Some scholars believe that Lemons might have been the 'Golden Apples of the Hesperides'. Others favor peaches - the final verdict on this question is still to be decided.

Lemons, along with Myrtle, Willow and Palm, play a role in the Jewish festivities of the Tabernacle. In Jewish tradition Lemons symbolize the heart.

Traditional Lemon peel contains high amounts of Vitamin C and calcium and thus helps in improving and maintaining bone health. It also helps in preventing bone related diseases like inflammatory polyarthritis, osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Lemon Peel is antibacterial when diffused and due to its fresh scent, lends itself particularly well to diffusion in sick rooms, killing germs and simultaneously brightening the patient's spirit.

Lemon is not only an antidepressant, but also helps concentration. Its stimulant action on the circulation is excellent for those, who perform detail oriented tasks or who work creatively.

Magical Lemon is associated with the solar plexus chakra, the center of the will and self-image, from which confidence and power radiates. It is a great pick-me-up, especially for those lacking confidence, or easily get down on themselves. Lemon can be used to meditate on the sun as a source of creative energy. It is purifying and refreshing, helping to clear an overburdened mind. It is also stimulating and can be used to initiate new projects. It radiates a sparkling kind of compassion that makes it impossible to hang on to the dark clouds of doom and gloom.

Citrus sinensis is a major natural source of vitamin C, along with antioxidants and pectin.

Orange Peel is harvested from the ripened fruit of the Orange tree. Orange is among the most popular of fruits. First grown in Asia, they are now grown in many warm locations around the world, such as Florida, California and Brazil. Oranges, once considered a great delicacy, are now quite plentiful throughout the world. Orange Peel is believed to be one of the healthiest natural products due its large amount of vitamin C.

Orange Peel is where most of the vitamin C in an orange is located, so if you're eating just the fruit, you're missing out on a lot of it.

Magical: The high-energy scent of oranges is said to communicate the joy of angels to human beings. Orange peel is great for embodying the Sun in a mixture, whether potpourri, tea, sachet, charm, etc. Like the Sun, orange peel lifts those who are down, helps the confused find direction, and gives new life to spiritual yearnings. Its scent is good for dealing with obsessive thinking and Sun-like, for turning us back to what is important.

Orange peel is nice in Yule celebrations, reminding us of the promise of Sun even in the middle of winter. You can also mix it with cinnamon, frankincense, nutmeg, and juniper berries to make a nice potpourri in honor of Leo or put into a centering, uplifting ritual bath combined with other Sun herbs.

I have seen this magic herb recommended as an incense ingredient, but it doesn't smell good when burning. If you want to use it in an incense recipe, mix it together as usual, but instead of burning the incense on charcoal, put it into an oil burner with a bit of water or neutral oil and let the warmth release the scents.

The scent of orange peels mixes nicely with bay leaves, cinnamon, pepper, cloves, coriander, frankincense, juniper, lemon, patchouli, sandalwood, vetiver, jasmine, and rose. Cunningham considered equal parts of lemon and orange peel to be a viable substitution for citron, also a member of the citrus family.

Oranges, because of their color, also make a handy symbol for gold in spell work

Whether you are living the vegan, paleo, keto, or Mediterranean lifestyle, this whole food powerhouse has got you covered.
Pumpkin powder is comprised of mostly protein and fats with high-quality nutrient-rich fiber, essential minerals, and antioxidants.

Beyond its delicious taste, pumpkin is nutritious and linked to many benefits. Pumpkin is packed with nutrients and yet has under 50 calories per cup!

Pumpkin is high in vitamins, fiber, and minerals while being low in calories. It’s also a great source of beta-carotene, a carotenoid that your body converts into vitamin A.

Rosehips are the hard, bright red little gourd-shaped fruits of the dog-rose, which is commonly encountered as a hedgerow plant. Compared to the more beautiful and exuberantly fragrant cultivated varieties, Dog-rose is a bit of a doormat plant. Yet, its fruit are jam-packed with vitamin C and provide an excellent source of this nutrient, especially during the winter months. Rosehips are rarely considered medicinal these days, but are a common ingredient in fruit teas to which they add a refreshing zest. Other traditional Rosehip preparations such as Rosehip spreads and syrups have recently found new fans among an increasingly health conscious public. Generations of schoolchildren have long appreciated Rosehips for the fine hairs and tiny seeds concealed within their 'belly', which they employ as itching powder. Scientists, however, have recently discovered a better use of the seeds: rosehip seeds contain nutrient rich oil, which has become a highly sought after cosmetic ingredient.

Medicinal: Though rarely considered medicinal today, Rosehips once played a role as a freely available herb tea for various conditions, especially among country people. The fruits (including the seeds) are diuretic and have been recommended as a remedy for kidney and bladder conditions such as gravel and stones. The seeds, boiled for at least an hour, are helpful in rheumatic, gouty and arthritic conditions. The fruits are refreshing and rich in vitamin C and make an excellent tea for feverish conditions. Rosehips are soothing and gently cleansing for the digestive system. Rosehip tea makes a tasty, safe and refreshing children's beverage.

Magical: Rosehips belong to Jupiter and may be used as a charm to attract health and wealth. The belly-shaped fruit, packed with seeds, is a symbol of prosperity and fertility. The fruits placed beneath the pillow protect the sleeper against nightmares and nasty spirits that seek to disturb the nightly peace.

Saw Palmetto is a creeping palm that is native to Florida, parts of Mexico and the Caribbean. Native Americans used it as food and medicine and made medicine collection baskets from the leaf stalk fibres. The leaves were also used to thatch houses and for weaving mats and hats. The olive like berries provided deliciously sweet treats that were appreciated by wo/man and animals alike. For medicinal purposes, Native Americans mostly used the root bark and leaves, unlike modern phytotherapy, which utilises the berries. The uses of the berries have mostly been studied in Europe rather than the US. Saw Palmetto has recently caught the attention of the press as some questionable US studies claim that Saw Palmetto does not live up to its reputation to alleviate the symptoms of benign prostate enlargement (which is in stark contrast to dozens of European studies).

Traditional: Native Americans used the roots of Saw Palmetto as a lotion for sore eyes, or made a decoction for kidney trouble. The dried root was used for high blood pressure. Boiled with bramble briar it was a remedy for stomach ache. They also considered it aphrodisiac. Modern phytotherapy has discovered a whole different range of applications for the berries, which have long been used as an effective remedy for stage I and stage II benign hyperplasia of the prostate gland, a condition which affects 50% of men over 50 and 80% of men over 80. It is marked by frequent urge to urinate, yet inability to completely empty the bladder. Saw Palmetto fruit eases these symptoms, though the effects are not immediate. Rather, they become noticeable after about 45 days of continued use. The effectiveness is said to be the same as that of standard medication. Side effects are rare, but some individuals have reported minor digestive troubles. Saw Palmetto can also help women: Due to hormonal substances present in the fruit it is said to reduce uterine cysts, increase breast size and reduce female facial hair growth (hirsutism). Men may also benefit from the aphrodisiac effect. It has been used for bronchitis and cough and is also given as a tonic for general malaise or as an aid for convalescence.

Magical: Saw Palmetto berries can be enjoyed as an aphrodisiac. In the Caribbean an aphrodisiac liqueur is made by macerating the berries in Gin. Various spices may be added and sweetened with honey. Liqueurs like this can be enjoyed as a ritual cup for sex magic or tantric rituals. The berries may also be used in charms for love and lust.

Organic dried sour cherries are unsweetened to let all of nature’s delicious tart cherry flavor shine through!

Anyone with a taste for tartness will find these irresistible.

These unsweetened dried cherries are CCOF Certified Organic