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The regal Mullein demands attention - tall and upright, with bold, furry leaves and an impressive flowering spike it towers above most common herbs and seems to be keeping a watchful eye. The flowering spike is densely covered with bright yellow flowers that greet the weary walker with a myriad of eyes. Dipped in tallow or wax this spike used to be much used as a simple torch. The furry leaves on the other hand, were used to line shoes for extra warmth and comfort. Mullein is an ancient magical herb that played an important role in folk-medicine. It was usually the centerpiece of the '9 herb bundle' around which the other herbs were arranged. Its obvious solar attributes made it a favorite herb for St. John's /midsummer rites. Ceremonial Mullein torches were lit after dark and paraded around the village to scare off evil creatures. Hung in the stables it protected the animals against the evil works of witches and demons and against thunder and lightening.

Medicinal: Mullein is not just soft on the outside - it is also softening by virtue of its inner nature. Applied externally, compresses of the leaves, which contain mucilage properties, are said to soften tumors, hardened swellings and inflammatory conditions of the skin. The leaves and flowers are highly recommended as a cough remedy, especially for a dry, hacking cough, asthma, bronchitis etc. It is also sometimes given for kidney complaints. The tea must be strained! (Or alternatively use a tea ball or strainer to infuse the leaves)

Magical: Mullein is an ancient sacred plant that can be used in the midsummer celebrations. Flares are made with the flowering spikes that serve as a representation of the Sun god. Mullein protects against all evil, and in particular, against lightning. However, bringing Mullein into the house for no good reason is said to cause lightning to strike.

Dried Nettles may feel a little prickly, but they do not sting and they yield their nutritional benefits without much further ado.
Nettles are very cleansing on both, the digestive tract and the kidneys, from which they remove waste materials in a thorough, yet undramatic way. Nettles have the ability to flush out uric acid crystals from arthritic joints and will eliminate them via the kidneys. Thus, they can be used as a supportive blood cleansing remedy for skin conditions such as eczema or for rheumatic and arthritic conditions. They are strongly diuretic and can be helpful in cases of edema or to support the treatment of bladder and kidney complaints.
Nettles are very rich in iron and provide good nutritional support for women
, especially during pregnancy or menstruation.
They are styptic and will help to inhibit internal and external bleeding. They also have an anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine effect, which, in combination with other herbs, is used to control hay fever and other allergic reactions.
The leaves can stimulate the production of mother's milk, while the seeds are said to increase sexual potency in men.

Magical Uses:
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.

Shamanic Magical Uses: This is the herb of Muspellheim, the burning land, and its power is aggressive defense. Nettle is an aggressive defender, in the sense that it will not only absorb any harmful magic that is thrown at you or the space, it will strike back if you let it.
Due to its difficult nature, it's nearly impossible to handle fresh in ritual, but dried or cooked nettle will lose its sting - physically, anyway. Nettle keeps its rabid-guard-dog energy when burned, or sprinkled dry around an area. You can drink it in tea in preparation for any kind of guardian duty. Sometimes Nettle's aggressive defensiveness will slip over into offensiveness, so it's not a bad herb to use before any duty where you're going to be armed and going into danger.
Because of its association with Muspellheim, Nettle likes being burned, but throwing it into a fire may make the fire burn longer and hotter, perhaps dangerously so. Take care that you have plenty of water around before infusing your little campfire with the power of the Fire World. On the other hand, it can be a symbolic substitute for fire in a place where you aren't allowed to actually light a flame.

Oat straw is the aerial part of Oat grass, which also supplies us with one of the most nutritious and popular breakfast cereals.

Oat straw used to be used for stuffing mattresses, which was of particular benefit to people who suffered from rheumatism. Oat straw is often fed to horses, which is said to make them energetic and spunky. Some say that when fed to men it will do the same thing.

Medicinal: Oat straw is highly nutritious for the nervous system and can be prepared as a tea for states of general debility and for nervous exhaustion. Oat straw is a good relaxing nervous system tonic and can be used for insomnia and anxiety when these are due to stress. It is diuretic and acts as a tonic for a weak bladder and for kidney problems. It also brings relief for liver and gallbladder problems. For external use, it can be added to the bathwater to treat skin sores and eczema and that can reduce itchiness. An Oat straw bath also soothes rheumatic and gouty pains.

Magical: Oat straw is used for making corn dollies that feature in harvest rituals. The modern practitioner can make use of its great for rejuvenating properties in the form of a ritual bath or as a ritual cup to invoke inner peace, enhance mental powers, concentration and endurance. For money magic and fertility rites the seeds are more useful than the straw.

Passion Flower does not, as the name might suggest, rouse passion - quiet to the contrary. Instead, Passionflower received its name from the zealous missionaries who overran South America. They perceived the beautiful flower as a symbolic representation of the Passion of Christ. The styles are seen as the nails with which Christ was nailed to the cross and the 3 anthers may represent the hammers used to drive them in - or the holy trinity. The corona, the colorful filaments are interpreted as the crown of thorns - or as Christ's halo, while the corolla is said to represent the 10 apostles without Judas and Peter. Interpretations may vary, but they all follow along these lines. Passiflora is a highly divers genus of mostly tropical species. However, some few varieties also thrive in temperate climates, including the strikingly beautiful Passiflora incarnata.

Traditional
Passionflower is a wonderful, safe sedative and relaxing herb. It is not narcotic and non-habit forming, rather, it is a nervine, that acts to relax and soothe an overactive, stressed or worried nervous system. It is excellent in cases where persistent anxieties disturb sleep patterns. It also has a spasmolytic action and can be used to treat conditions such as Parkinson's, hysteria, cramps and spasms. It can be combined with other herbs to add such a relaxant component to a compound remedy, e.g. to treat menstrual discomfort or pain.

Magical:
Passionflower plays a role in Christian plant symbolism as a representation of the Passion of Christ. Natives of the Amazon however, saw a helpful plant ally that is at times mixed into Ayahuasca brews to intensify the visions. Passionflower can be used for meditation, to help calm an overactive mind and finding inner peace. It may also be used for dream work.

Patchouli is inextricably linked to the flower children of the 60s, for whom it was the perfume of choice. The musky, earthy, sweetish smell is one of those scents that is either loved or hated.
In its native India the herb is a first aid remedy for snake bites and the stings of various poisonous insects. It is also used in moths balls and sachets that can be placed in laundry cupboards to ward off insects and moths.
Its peculiar smell is also used in various aphrodisiac formulas for massage and bath oils and perfumes, but it only works on people who LIKE the scent. Its fixative qualities may be useful in any natural perfume blend, however, it must be used sparingly so as not to overpower other, more subtle fragrances

.

Medicinal use
In Ayurvedic medicine Patchouli is used for various skin conditions, such as acne, eczema and cracked skin. Its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and anti-fungal properties also make it useful in the treatment of athlete's foot. Traditionally it has also been used in hair-care products, to alleviate dandruff and to help maintain the natural hair color and prevent greying. Patchouli is also said to be relaxing for the nervous system and can soothe headaches and depression.

Magical use
Patchouli features prominently in various love philtres and amulets to attract love. However, as noted above, this magic only works on people who like the smell.

Most pennyroyal incidents involve the use of pennyroyal essential oil (generally used for therapeutic or homeopathic purposes or as an insect repellent), which is so potent that it should be considered a poison. In the interest of safety, never use pennyroyal essential oil for anything unless you are familiar with working with it.

Obviously, there are good reasons to leave pennyroyal oil alone. However, the pennyroyal plant itself, as the most pungent member of the mint family, may have several good uses around your house.

Pennyroyal is one of the most powerfully aromatic mints. The Latin name 'pulegium' hints at its earlier use as an insecticide, especially for fleas, (Pulex is Latin for 'flea'). Once upon a time it has also been used for culinary purposes, especially in hogs stuffing, but modern tastes have changed and it is no longer considered very palatable. Pennyroyal yields an essential oil, but this has been mostly withdrawn from sale since it was deemed too dangerous. Pennyroyal has always had symbolic sexual connotations and was once commonly used as a lewd metaphor for female pubic hair and illicit sexual affairs. It is reported to have been included in the ritual drink known as Kykeon, the sacramental brew served during the celebrations of the Elysian mysteries in ancient Greece.

Medicinal: Pennyroyal can be used as a digestive aid to relax the stomach and intestines and soothe colic pain and flatulence. It is also a powerful diaphoretic and can be used at the onset of a cold or flu. However, Pennyroyal is most famous for stimulating the uterus and for bringing on delayed menstruation. It has a reputation as an abortifacient.

NOTE: Do not use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Magical: This herb can be used to celebrate the mysteries of Demeter and Persephone.

Pines embody the essence of resilience and determination, an arboreal image of 'mind over matter'. Growing among rocks and stones in inhospitable places where there is almost no soil, exposed to wind and weather, they inspire us to rise above difficulties and persist against the odds. Their resinous aroma elevates the spirit, clears the mind and makes the feet move lightly along the path. Their crowns waving gently in the sky above, they exude a lofty air of serenity and spread a sense of inner peace, tranquility and calm.

Those who are worn with fatigue and stress should make ample use of the refreshing and invigorating power of pines. In mythology Pines are commonly associated with the dwellings of fairies and gnomes. They symbolize humility, good fortune and prosperity, fertility and protection. Their evergreen needles are a certain indication of a potent life force. In the olden days, farmers sought to transfer this vital energy and protect their animals and kin by pinning some branches above the doors to ward off witchcraft, misfortune, disease and even lightning.

Infused into oil the needles are good for muscle aches and pains, rheumatism and arthritis, neuralgia, stiffness etc.

As a Tea they are also useful for respiratory problems like sinusitis and make a wonderful addition to a bath at the onset of a cold or flu, especially when one is feeling achy.

They stimulate the circulation and is useful for numbness, nervous exhaustion, fatigue and listlessness.

Both Broadleaved Plantain (Plantago major) and Ribwort Plantain (Plantago lanceolata) are among the most common weeds and frequent found roadside companions. Originally an herb of temperate Europe, they seized the opportunity to travel with the European explorers as they set out to conquer the world. So closely did the two become associated that native people from North America to New Zealand named the new herb 'White man's Foot print', for it grew wherever the Europeans had set foot. Unlike some of the other new herbs though, the Native people appreciated this newcomer for its healing virtues, which they had soon figured out. Somewhat more respectfully they started to call it Snake Plantain for its ascribed power of healing the bites of venomous snakes (rattlesnake). A piece of the root carried as an amulet was hoped to prevent being bitten, but failing that it would be handy as a remedy in case of a mishap. In Burma a bunch of the herb was fastened to a pole, which was carried on long journeys as a magical means of protection against all evil that may be lurking by the wayside.

Medicinal:
Both Plantains are used medicinally, although modern practice tends to use Broadleaf Plantain externally for bites, stings, burns and minor cuts and wounds as well skin afflictions. The juice can be applied directly, or the herb may be prepared as a plaster to treat boils, carbuncles and tumors. Ribwort Plantain tends to be used for internal afflictions of the respiratory system, asthma, cough, catarrh congestion etc. It is also used for diarrhea or afflictions of the urinary tract. It has a soothing action and astringent action on the mucous membranes.

Magical
Plantain is the protector and companion of the journeyman. Worn as an amulet it protects against the hidden dangers of travel - such as snake bites and insect stings. In Ireland it is associated with St. Patrick, patron saint of Ireland - interestingly, St. Patrick is also associated with averting snakes.

Shamanic Magical Use:
This is the plant of Helheim, the land of the Dead. Its shamanic uses are many and varied and rather subtle. First, it can create a certain amount of invisibility for a short period of time. Notice how the weedy plantain manages to make itself so inconspicuous? That's a power that you can harness, especially if you are journeying or path walking. Second, it can be used in recels to speak to the ancestors, or to find your way to the Helvegr. Its name "waybread" echoes this usage - waybread will help you find the way.
If you actually manage to get yourself astrally wounded, plantain is the plant to resort to. In some cases, it can even save you from astral death, if your body is still healthy. Its regenerative gift of bringing flesh back to life doesn't work on the physical plane, but I suspect that it works on other planes.

Special selection of herbs used for protective magic!

Contains:

• Bay Leaf
• Hyssop
• Vervain
• Angelica Root
• Blessed Thistle

Dead Nettle are often one of the first wild flowers of Spring!

It is known in the herbal world as being astringent, diuretic, diaphoretic and purgative. It’s also anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal.

The leaves can be used on external wounds or cuts, or as a poultice, similar to how you would use yarrow or plantain.

It can be made into an infusion or tea, with either fresh plant material or dried. This may be the simplest way to enjoy its benefits, although it may also have a laxative effect if used in large amounts.

It’s good for the kidneys and may even help with seasonal allergies!

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.

Rosemary projects the energy of a stern, yet compassionate teacher. Although it is an herb of the sun, it is not bright and sunny. Rather, it serves as a constant reminder of our highest consciousness and conscience. Rosemary is an herb of memory and so it has become associated with all the things and people we want to keep near and dear in our hearts. It is an herb of love, though it is anything but erotic or sensuous. Instead, it is a reminder of the bond between two souls, the special spiritual tie that is so easily forgotten amidst the ups and downs of day to day life. It is also a funerary herb, thrown on the grave as a last assurance that the soul of the departed will never be forgotten. More mundanely, Rosemary helps students with their studies, or old people with their fading memories. In medieval times it was one of the most important herbs of the still room and it was extensively used in dozens of cosmetic or remedial preparations.
Rosemary is a Mediterranean herb that 'likes to be kissed by the Sea' - although it does not have to 'see' the sea, it never grows far from it in the wild. The leathery, scented leaves look more like evergreen needles than leaves. Early in spring the shrubby bushes are covered with dainty little lilac flowers, which are very popular with bees.
As a culinary herb it is one of the herbs in the 'herbes de provence' blend. It is particularly well suited for greasy meat dishes such as lamb, as the bitter, astringent flavor helps the body to digest heavy fare. It is also rich in antioxidants, which prevent such fats from turning into the cell damaging free radicals. Rosemary yields an essential oil that is commonly used in cosmetic preparations and aromatherapy.

Medicinal: Rosemary stimulates the circulation, especially to the head. It is a good aid for concentration and counteracts forgetfulness, mental fatigue, headaches and stress related conditions. It may come to the rescue in cases of fainting or general debility, but should be avoided by those who suffer high blood pressure. Rosemary is particularly useful in cases where mental stress impacts the digestive system, as its nervine properties help to relax the smooth muscles of the digestive tract. It stimulates the appetite and cleanses catarrhal conditions of the stomach. It also stimulates the liver and gallbladder. It is considered an excellent herb to lift the spirit, especially during times of grieving or when one feels trapped in permanent stress situations. It has been used in mild cases of depression and can be useful as an uplifting stimulant during convalescence. Rosemary macerated in wine used to be a favorite remedy of the old herbalists, not only to fortify the spirits, but also as a cleansing diuretic that could help to reduce edema. Externally, Rosemary has long been used as a hair rinse which is said to stimulate hair growth. Do not use during pregnancy.

Magical Rosemary has a long and intricate history as a magical herb. It is strongly protective and purifying, helping to ward off evil influences and witches and cleansing the atmosphere of bad energies. It has been used as incense to cleanse the atmosphere in sick-rooms too and can be used in healing rituals to help dispel the demons of disease. It can protect against bad dreams and all manner of evil influences. Rosemary aids the student to memorize the teachings and to concentrate on the work. It is used at funerals to keep the memory of the departed. At weddings it serves as a reminder of the timeless bond between the souls and the love that has brought the couple together. Rosemary gives vigor, strength, courage and mental clarity.

Looking at the feathery, bluish-green leaves and umbel-like flowers of this herb one would swear to have made the acquaintance of a type of Artemisia, a member of the compositae family. But appearances can be deceptive; Rue, in fact, belongs to the Rutaceae, which denotes it as a distant relative of citrus trees. It is at home in the eastern Mediterranean and appears to have been in cultivation for at least a thousand years. According to the bible, it was tithed in biblical times, a distinction reserved exclusively for cultivated garden plants.

In the days of antiquity Rue apparently enjoyed great popularity, despite its rather bitter and not exactly pleasant flavor. It seemed to have played a significant role as a culinary herb, especially in Roman cuisine. Today its culinary use has all but disappeared, though one might occasionally happen upon a dish spiced with it when traveling in Ethiopia, where it is even sometimes added as coffee spice. Here and there it may also still be used in remote cuisines of Italy. It must be said though, that for culinary purposes the fresh herb is preferable since most the essential oils disappear on drying, leaving mostly the bitter taste, rather than the more subtle aromatic component. Even the fresh leaves should only be used sparingly and should be removed after a few minutes. If left simmering too long the sauce or stew will turn bitter.

The ancients also praised Rue for its medicinal and magical uses. One of its alternative common names is 'Herb of Grace', which indicates its use as a sacred herb, which has been adapted by Christianity. Ancient writers report it being used to sprinkle holy water throughout the church to purify it. Rue does indeed seem to have purifying and protective powers, not just against spirit entities but also against the demons of disease. During the time of the plague, four unscrupulous thieves took advantage of the most helpless people - the dead and dying pest victims. They were protected from falling prey to the Black Death themselves by the power of a special herbal concoction, which became known as 'vinegar of the four thieves'. When they were finally caught the secret of their vinegar saved their lives yet again. Rue was part of the blend. Although modern herbalists don't pay too much attention to it, the ancients valued it highly for its power to resist all manner of poisons.

Medicinal:
Although it receives but scant attention from modern practitioners, Rue possesses several interesting actions. Firstly, it has a very pronounced effect on the womb and thus should never be used during pregnancy. Before abortions became a legal and safe option Rue was used for this purpose. But it also tones the muscles of the womb and regulates suppressed menses, especially when associated with tension. It is insect repellent and anthelmintic and will get rid of worms. The ancients deemed it effective against all manner of poisons and used it as an antidote against the venomous bites of various creatures or any other hidden toxins lurking in the depth of their stomachs.

Rue was also said to protect the eyesight. Pliny reports that it was greatly valued for this purpose by artists, who ate the herb in the hope that it would impart clarity and vision. Rue can be used as eyewash, which is said to be particularly helpful in cases of eyestrain, where the musculature has become exhausted. It is used both, internally and externally for sprains and strains, as well as for rheumatic pains. The ancients used it in cases of dizziness, hysteria and epilepsy.

NOTE: Do not use during pregnancy.

Magical:
The ancients revered Rue highly for its powerful protective properties. It was said to be able to ward off even the devil himself. Rue could protect against the evil eye and against the demons of disease. It was used to clear the third eye and enhance inner vision. It may protect against nightmares and may be used to safeguard astral journeys. It can also be used for cleansing or consecrating a sacred space or ritual tools.

Sassafras leaf is traditionally used as a thickening and flavoring agent in Gumbo, as well as other Cajun sauces and soups. The leaves have a lightly spicy and a pleasant aromatic scent and flavor. The fresh young leaves are used in salads.

Magical
Sassafras is considered strongly protective and cleansing. It can be used as incense to ward off evil influences. As a tea it makes a good ritual tonic. It is frequently added to love charms and potions. Its warming, stimulating and aphrodisiac qualities make it very suitable for sex magic and tantric rituals. Native Americans also used to smoke the root bark.

There are some 400 species of Senna, which are mostly natives of the Indian subcontinent. Collectively they are often referred to as Cassia senna. They have been used as an effective and reliable laxative for thousands of years and played an important part in Arabian medicine since the 9th century, where it was imported along with dozens of spices from India and China. Ayurveda and Chinese medicine made the broadest use of Senna, employing not only the pods, but also the leaves for numerous purposes.

Due to its purgative properties it is sometimes included in modern weight-loss programs, but this use is not recommended, as it is habit forming.

Traditional
Senna's action depends on irritating the intestinal tract, which causes the muscles to contract and thus produces a bowel movement. It also binds liquids in the intestines. In Ayurveda it is also used externally for certain skin problems, jaundice, bronchitis and anemia. In Chinese medicine it is used to 'cool the fire of the liver'. Senna leaves can have a very drastic effect. It is best not to boil or simmer them, as this releases substances that produce a cathartic action. The best way to prepare Senna is to infuse with warm water, strain, and allow to cool and drink.
Senna may cause griping (cramping). It can be combined with Ginger and other digestive relaxants to reduce this cramping effect.

Do not use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Magical
Senna is sometimes included in sachets used for love charms.

Shepherd's Purse has become quite a world-citizen: it can be found in just about any patch of land, whether cultivated garden or abandoned wasteland throughout all temperate regions outside the tropics. An herb of the mustard family, Shepherds Purse has typical little white 4 petaled flowers, which turn into tiny heart-shaped pods. When the seeds are ripe they have a fiery bite that can be utilized as a 'wild pepper'. In times gone by it was a much valued remedy, but it is rarely used today. Native North Americans absorbed this herb into their material medica and adapted it to their own uses.

Medicinal:
Shepherd's Purse is strongly astringent and has successfully been used as a styptic for internal and external bleeding. During World War I, when other commonly used styptics such as Ergot and Goldenseal became unavailable, Shepherd's Purse was used as a replacement, and apparently with good success. It can be used for inner bleeding e.g. from the lungs or stomach.
It is also considered diuretic and anti-inflammatory and can thus be helpful in cases of bladder inflammation.
Old herbals recommend it as an aid for women during menopause. Today it is still occasionally used to reduce excessive menstrual flow as well as diarrhea and dysentery. Native Americans used it to kill and expel intestinal worms, to soothe stomach aches, cramps and dysentery and as a lotion to heal the stings of Poison Ivy.

Magical:
Shepherd's Purse was used as a protective charm against bleeding. The seeds were used as an amulet for teething children. Eating the seeds of the first three Shepherd's Purse plants one sees is said to protect against all manner of diseases for the rest of the year.

A member of the Mint family, Skullcap is quite a varied genus with some 90 species that are spread all over the world. America is blessed with some 30 species of which the most commonly used medicinal one is Virginian Skullcap, which is also known as 'Mad-Dog Weed' on account of its supposed ability to cure rabies. This claim was touted far and wide in the early days of its discovery, but was later renounced and the herb fell into disrepute. However, despite its failure to cure rabies Skullcap does have some very valuable healing properties and thus never quite disappeared from the Herbal Materia Medica. It was official in the American Pharmacopoeia between 1863 -1916.

Medicinal Uses:
Skullcap is best known for its excellent nervine properties. It is calming and relaxing and can be used in cases of anxiety, insomnia, stress related conditions and anorexia, panic attacks and depression. It is also said to ally conditions that are marked by involuntary muscle twitching or convulsions, such as restless leg syndrome and mild epileptic seizures. It used to be used for St. Vitus dance when this was a common problem, and even for schizophrenia. It also appears to be useful for fibromyalgia. It can be used for menstrual cramps and Native American women drank it to promote menstruation. It can also help to relax tense muscles, especially when their uptightness is due to stress. A closely related Chinese species is used for Cancer, but more research is necessary to confirm this use.

CAUTION: Do not use during pregnancy.

Magical Uses:
Magically this herb has been used for cleansing in cases where a menstruation taboo has been broken. It also can be used for exorcism and to protect the practitioner on spirit journeys.

Few herbs produce as many variants as the Mint family and each tastes, smells and acts a little bit different. Spearmint is delightful - much less harsh and pungent than the more commonly used Peppermint. This is due to the fact that it contains very little menthol. Spearmint is thus the preferred species for culinary purposes, while Peppermint is favored for medicinal uses. However, that does not mean to suggest that Spearmint does not have any therapeutic use!
. The ancients valued it highly as an herb for students and scholars. They thought a wreath of Spearmint a fitting crown for academics and poets, which was thought to aid concentration and keep the mind clear.
The Romans liked it as a strewing herb and sprinkled their quarters to scent the air with its nice, fresh aroma. >br />Spearmint also lends itself better for cosmetic use than the more pungent Peppermint.>br /> It is very refreshing, relaxing and uplifting, for example when added to the bathwater, where Peppermint would make one feel cold, even if the water was hot. Spearmint is not as stimulating as Peppermint, which makes it also suitable for use at night and it is said to bring happy dreams and restful sleep.

Traditional
Spearmint can be used much like Peppermint. It is relaxing and antispasmodic. It aids digestion and alleviates nausea. It may be a useful calming and soothing remedy for PMT. In general its medicinal action is not as strong as that of Peppermint and its taste is milder, which is why it is usually preferred for culinary uses. Due to its milder action it is also generally thought more suitable for children's troubles, such as 'rumble-tum', nausea, insomnia, colic or feverish conditions. Added to the bathwater it is relaxing and restorative, soothing and clearing for the mind.

Magical
Spearmint can be used when studying and at times of intense mental concentration. It can be used for cleansing and protection rituals, for healing and aura cleansing. It protects the practitioner on his astral journeys and during dream work. It enhances mental clarity, concentration and focus.

NOTE: Do not use if you suffer from Depression or BPD as it can exacerbate symptoms

St. John's Wort is one of the most important herbs in herbal medicine and herbal magic. Its flowering time coincides with the zenith of the midsummer sun and for this reason, as well as for its obviously sunny disposition it has long held a place of honor as a summer solstice herb. The radiant flowers resemble little suns, while the reddish oil resembles blood, the sacred juice of life, which in the olden days was sacrificed at summer solstice to ensure the continuity of life throughout the coming season, when the sun slowly goes into retreat. Some sprigs were cast on the ceremonial bonfires, others were blessed and hung above the stable and barn doors. It was thought that St. Johns Wort offers protection against the hazards of excessive sun, fire, lightening and droughts, and to scare off witches and demons. The Church did not manage to demonize this sacred herb and so opted to assimilate it instead. They dedicated it to St. John, whose Saints day is just after the summer solstice and is often celebrated in a similar, though perhaps tamer fashion. It became an anti-demonic herb that could ward off all evil witchcraft and daemons. St. John's Wort was also used in witch-trials to force the accused to 'speak the truth'. It was thought that in the presence of such an upright, open and radiant herb no evil could persist.

Medicinal:
St. John's Wort is a tonic for the whole body. It is a gentle cleansing remedy that improves overall function and tones the vital body systems. It strengthens and regulates the metabolism and gently stimulates stomach, liver and kidneys thus helping to clear the body of metabolic waste matter. It is also an excellent nervine with a calming and sedative effect on the nervous system. It is an old remedy for headaches and migraine and can also be used to treat anxiety, melancholy and irritability, especially during menopause or in cases of PMT. It is said to be effective for bedwetting in children, especially when due to a nervous disposition or anxiety. For this purpose, 1 tablespoon of the infusion given at bedtime is said to suffice. The tea is effective for indigestion. Externally a compress can be applied to wounds, cuts, bruises, varicose veins and burns.

Magical:
The Doctrine of Signatures identified St. John's Wort as an herb of the sun. Its sunny, upright character was thought to dispel daemons of depression and melancholy, while its punctured leaves and red oil signified its usefulness for treating wounds, cuts and burns. It is also used as a talisman to identify witches. As an amulet it was also thought to protect against wounds inflicted by sharp objects such as swords, knives and bullets, while hung above barn and stable doors at midsummer protects the cattle against the evil-doings of witches and demons.

Stevia Leaf has been in the news in the last few years because it offers a naturally sweet taste with no calories, making it very useful for those trying to watch their weight as well as their sugar intake. Stevia Leaf, also known by the botanical Latin name of Stevia rebaudiana, goes by the common names of sweetleaf, honey leaf, sweet herb of Paraguay, Kaa he-he and sugarleaf. It is commonly used as a sugar substitute. The Stevia plant is an annual that enjoys sunny weather and moist soil in order for it to grow well.

A 2016 study reported that dried stevia leaf powder significantly lowered blood sugar levels in people with diabetes (Type 2), both while fasting and after eating. The study participants also experienced a reduction in their triglyceride and cholesterol levels.