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The mulberry has a long history of medicinal use in Chinese medicine, almost all parts of the plant are used in one way or another. The white mulberry (M. alba) is normally used, but this species has the same properties. Recent research has shown improvements in elephantiasis when treated with leaf extract injections and in tetanus following oral doses of the sap mixed with sugar.

It acts as a Analgesic, emollient and sedative.

The leaves are antibacterial, astringent, diaphoretic, hypoglycaemic, odontalgic, and ophthalmic. They are taken internally in the treatment of colds, influenza, eye infections and nosebleeds. The Leaves also are used in the treatment of Diabetes.(Type 2)

Since ancient Greek physicians prescribed blackberry for gout, the leaves, roots, and even berries have been used as herbal medicines. The most common uses were for treating diarrhea, sore throats, and wounds.

According to some English folklore, passing under the archway formed by a bramble branch will cure (or prevent) all manner of afflictions, including hernia, ruptures, pimples, and boils. This has also been used as a remedy for “downer” cows. (I have not found a description of this last healing rite, but I suspect it involves passing the archway over the cow rather than dragging a cow under it.)

Celtic lore said that blackberries were fae fruit, and thus bad luck for people to eat (but blackberry wine was somehow still okay!) Mythology relating both Christ and the Devil to blackberries also made them taboo eating.

According to some Christian lore, Christ’s crown of thorns was made of brambles; thus, the berries were turned from red to black.

Another tale says that Lucifer landed in brambles when he was cast down from heaven and thus he cursed them so that they would be ugly. It is said that he hates them so much, he stomps on them on Michealmas Day and after that, it’s unlucky to harvest them. Other folklore says this happens on Halloween.

Even so, blackberries were considered protective against earthbound spirits and vampires. If planted near a home, a vampire couldn’t enter because he would obsessively count the berries and forget what he was about.

The therapeutic Blueberry leaves are well-known for supporting healthy blood sugar levels. They also contain antioxidant compounds, which provide potent free radical protection.

Blueberry leaves gently promote fluid balance, help maintain urinary tract health, and is a source of tannins, natural compounds which soothe gastrointestinal distress

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Metaphysical: Protective and associated w/ treachery and deception. It does not return the treachery - just keeps it from reaching you.

Common Names: Bilberry, Blueberry, Huckleberry, Whortleberry

*****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.

Made from Organic Black Elderberry, Vegetable Glycerin (Palm based), Water, Vitamin E Oil as preservative Elderberry can be one incredible healing powerhouse. When used externally, elder can help heal wounds and when taken internally, it can help fight colds, flus, and respiratory illnesses. It’s being studied as not only for its immune building properties, but also for anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer potential. When a cold or flu feels like it’s about to come on, start taking 1 Tablespoon 3 times a day.

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.

Made from Rye Vodka Extraction of Black Elderberry.

Elderberry can be one incredible healing powerhouse. When used externally, elder can help heal wounds and when taken internally, it can help fight colds, flus, and respiratory illnesses. It’s being studied as not only for its immune building properties, but also for anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer potential.

When a cold or flu feels like it’s about to come on, start taking 1 teaspoon of the elderberry tincture 3 times a day. Dilute in a cup of water to ease the burn of the alcohol and make it easier to drink, if necessary, or for children.

Contains the dry ingredients to make your own Elderberry syrup!

Contains: Elderberry, Ginger, Cinnamon (Cassia), Cloves

Just add water and honey and follow the included recipe !

Makes about 4 Cups

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."

Raspberry leaves are among the most pleasant-tasting of all the herbal remedies, with a taste much like black tea, without the caffeine. Raspberries were said to have been discovered by the Olympian gods themselves while searching for berries on Mount Ida.

Herbalists and midwives continue to copy Red Raspberry’s traditional uses from the Chippewa and other Native American groups: as an effective herbal support throughout all stages of a woman’s life from menstrual discomforts to pregnancy and childbirth.

Red Raspberry is more than just a women’s tonic though, the nutritive herb builds healthy blood (high in iron), soothes gastrointestinal distress and eases digestive discomforts.

Herbalist Hint: Red Raspberry makes a pleasant tasting tea with a black tea like taste and a delicate fruity floral aroma. It blends well with fruity Hibiscus and lemony teas like Lemon Verbena & Lemongrass.

Magical:
Raspberry is served as a love inducing food and the leaves are carried by pregnant women to alleviate the pains of pregnancy and childbirth. Also used for Love and Protection. Raspberry magic is the magic of patience in fertility. First year canes do not produce fruit but are essential to the fertility of the plant, establishing her root system and filling her canes with the strength and energy she'll need. After the cane has weathered a year, she's ready to bloom and fruit. Raspberry reminds us that maturity and proper conditioning are essential to abundant and healthy reproduction.

It is best to be patient, Raspberry councils, when beginning any creative endeavor. Raspberry's thorny canes remind us, too, to be protective of the fruits of our labors. If we truly want to share our work, we would be wise to be picky about who will carry it into the world. Birds, who cover a wide territory and have adapted strong beaks and feet that are undaunted by Raspberry's thorns, are welcomed by thorny Raspberry's canes. Bear, with his delicate claws, thick coat, and wide range is another welcome forager in Raspberry's thicket. Raspberry offers up her bounty knowing her seed will be carried far and wide by friends who have evolved the tools and techniques to pass her thorny test.

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.

Arctostaphylos uva ursi is a plant species of the genus Arctostaphylos (manzanita). The leaves of this small shrub have been used as an herbal folk medicine for centuries as a mild diuretic and astringent, and in the treatment of urinary tract infections such as cystitis, urethritis and nephritis, pyelitis and in pyelonephritis.

Uva Ursi was well-known to the Native Americans, who smoked the leaves either alone or mixed with other smoking herbs in their ceremonial pipes, believing that the smoke carried their wishes to the higher powers. They called the herb "Kinnikinnick," which roughly means "smoking mixture."

Not surprising, then, that the leaves ingested in a tea are believed to increase psychic abilities and divination in modern magic. Powdered herb can be sprinkled around the alter area or into burning candles in divination rituals, and leaves can be made into sachets to help increase psychic powers. Dried leaves can be mixed with tobacco or other smokable herbs and used for meditation and increased psychic abilities.