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The ancients ascribed this herb to Jupiter in Cancer, probably due to its healing effects on the digestive system. The bitter principles of Agrimony are well suited for treating indigestion and mild diarrhea, but they are even more useful for afflictions of the liver and gallbladder. It is considered an excellent blood cleanser that tones the entire digestive system and aids the assimilation of food. In the old days, it was often used as a spring tonic and blood cleanser, effective in clearing skin of eruptions caused by liver congestion and sluggish digestion.
Medicinal:
Agrimony is also most useful for flushing out kidney gravel and uric acid deposits in conditions such arthritis and gout.
It is anti-inflammatory and styptic and can be used to stop internal bleeding or to dress external wounds, which is a use that goes back to Anglo Saxon times and continued in France, where it served as one of the ingredients of 'arquebusade water.' This was a special concoction applied to wounds that were incurred by a type of firearm known as 'arquebus.'
Native Americans successfully used it to treat fevers, while Europeans employed it in herbal teas for colds and coughs, especially if accompanied by sore throat and hoarseness.
Magical:
It's essential to refrain from using metal tools when gathering or preparing Agrimony for magical purposes. If collected on St. John's Day (or Solstice) it may be used as an amulet to attract a lover. In the Middle Ages, it was also believed to be effective for curing snake bites and that, if placed under the head, it was thought to induce a deep and heavy sleep. In Germany, Agrimony was highly revered for its protective properties and is often mentioned as an ingredient of the sacred 'nine herb bundle', which was used as a panacea for practically all kinds of physical or metaphysical afflictions.
Our Collection of herbs to honor the Goddess of Love!
Contains:- Orris Root
- Cinnamon Chips
- Rose Petals
- Linden Leaf
- Sweet Basil
Culpepper has this to say: It is of a cold nature; in some it causeth sleep; in others madness, and, shortly after, death. – Culpeper’s Complete Herbal
So what exactly is the deal with it?
According to WebMD, the way belladonna works is that it has chemicals that block nervous system functions. Belladonna was in the past used in small doses as a sedative, to ease bronchial spasms and as a cold and allergy remedy. It's found in remedies for ointments used for joint pain, sciatica and nerve pain. It's been used to control excessive sweating and been found in hemorrhoid suppositories. It's currently being explored in its potential for treating Parkinson’s, nerve problems and some other conditions.
Atropine is used as a poison treatment because it can block or reverse some of the more adverse effects of certain medicines and pesticides. It's ironic how nature works in letting us derive a poison antidote from a highly poisonous plant.It's also used in medicines to dilate the pupils. In fact, this particular use may be how the plant got its name belladonna, which means “beautiful woman” – young ladies of ancient Rome would use it to dilate the pupils to make their eyes alluring and bewitching
Magical:
The name “Atropa” is from “Atropos”, one of the Greek Fates. It is she who would cut the thread when it was time to end a man’s life.
Because of its toxic nature, belladonna has been used in many death potions, hexes and curses. It's closely associated with the underworld, and used to consecrate and charge tools used to commune with spirits, or in incenses to attract the dead (never burn belladonna indoors and never directly inhale-- in fact, it's best to skip it and use a safer alternative).Belladonna was also occasionally found in beauty spells and potions. There's a legend from the Middle Ages that says the plant was actually an enchanted being and on certain nights it would transform into a beautiful woman who would then lure men to their deaths.
The most well-known use by far, however, is its use as an ingredient in so-called ‘flying ointments’. Folklore tells us these ointments were used by Witches to fly on sticks (or more modernly, broomsticks); however, in reality it is suspected that these ointments were used by ancient shamans and Witches to induce a trance state and astral projection-- a whole different type of 'flying'.
Some say that it was applied vaginally by use of a broomstick handle-- though I question that claim. First because witches weren't even associated with brooms (look at all the paintings and sketches pre-18th century; they're on sticks, not brooms). Second, because it just sounds like an awkward way to apply a lotion.
A lot of these flying ointment recipes have survived until today, with other poisons such as datura and henbane. I recommend you do not use them as these plants can make you permanently mad (if they don't kill you first). There are much safer alternatives to promote astral projection.
In Christian folklore, the devil loved belladonna so much he would guard it most of the year. The only safe time to harvest or kill the plant without enduring his wrath was on May Eve, when he was called away for the 'witches sabbats'.
By some accounts, belladonna was sacred to Bellona, the Roman Goddess of war. This may be another possible root of the plant’s name. Priests of Bellona would drink a belladonna infusion before prayers and meditations-- which no doubt gave them a number of visions (mostly hallucinations, I’m guessing).
By other accounts, it was sacred to Circe, an enchantress or (in some depictions) a Goddess of magic, who was widely known for her expertise with potions and herbs. She was known for using her herbs to transform people who crossed her into animals. If you've read the Odyssey of Homer, the crew comes across Circe's island in their travels. She feeds them but it's laced with potions that turns them into swine.
Contains:
- St. John's Wort
- Valerian Root
- Chamomile
- Calendula
- Mistletoe
NOTE: 1/2 Oz Increment!
Medicinally, the leaves of the Laurus Nobilis tree, also known as Sweet Laurel, have been used since the ancient times to treat problems associated with the liver, stomach, and kidneys. They were also used for treating bee and wasp stings. Nowadays, herbalists use bay leaves for treating various health complaints.
Here are some ways in which bay leaves are used today:
A study was conducted by the Department of Human Nutrition, Pakistan, to test the effect of bay leaf on type 2 diabetes. Forty people with type 2 diabetes were chosen for the study. They were divided into four groups and each group was given different quantities of bay leaf. At the end of the 30-day study, it was observed that all the subjects showed a marked increase in serum glucose. The conclusion was that using bay leaf reduces risk of cardiovascular diseases and Type 2 diabetes.
A similar study was conducted at the Department of Medical Technology, Zarqa Private University, Jordan. Similar to the above study, all subjects showed a remarkable decrease in levels of plasma glucose. Bad cholesterol levels also dropped. The conclusion of this study was that bay leaf not only improves insulin function, but also reduces cardiovascular disease risks.
Magical:
Sacred to Apollo, god of healing, poetry, music, light, prophecy, and surprisingly, plague. It is sometimes called Daphne because of the ancient Greek story featuring Apollo. The nymph Daphne was the daughter of the earth, Gaia, and the river, Peneus. She admired the goddess Diana and, like her, enjoyed the woods and hunting. She refused all suitors and wished to remain unmarried, as Diana did. Her father supported her in this. Apollo fell in love with her, but she did not want him. The more he pursued her, the more she ran from him. When he was about to catch her, she asked her father the river for help, and he turned her into a bay tree. Apollo said that if he could not have her for his love, he would have at least the leaves of the tree to decorate his harp and wear as a crown. That's why in ancient times, crowns for military victors were made of bay leaves.
It was used to roof the Temple at Delphi, which was the location of the famous oracle. In modern times, people will inhale the scent of these burning leaves is said to help increase psychic ability. Witches often stuff dream pillows with bay to help encourage divinatory dreams.
This herb makes a nice incense when mixed either with sandalwood (Mercury) or with other Sun substances like frankincense or cedar.
Because of bay leaves' association with love, they are also combined with various other herbs to make a handfasting incense, and it is said to attract lovers, especially men, probably because of the myth about Daphne.
You can make a good oil for dressing candles or blessing musical instruments (which are ruled by Apollo) by crumpling or grinding the herb and infusing them in Sun-warmed oil (sunflower would be a nice Sun oil to use--add a couple drops of vitamin E to help preserve it). Bay leaves are protective of the home and person (when worn as an amulet).
During the waxing moon, wishes can be written on the leaves, which are then burned on the Full Moon to empower the wish.
Contains:
- Ground Ivy
- St. Johns Wort
- Rosemary
- Angelica
- Cinquefoil
A humble, and common herb of the Mint family, it is difficult to comprehend the ancient's adoration for this herb. Culpeper recommends it for practically every disease under the sun and a little pamphlet dedicated to Wood Betony ascribed to Antony Musa, Caesar Augustus' personal physician, mentions its use for no less than 47 diseases. (However, some doubt the author's identity and deem the text to be much younger). Popular sayings, such as 'Sell your coat and buy betony' (Italy) are also widespread and it was widely believed that a house where Betony grew was protected against all evil, particularly that arising from snakes.
Traditional:
In modern herbalism Betony is somewhat less revered. It is used for its strengthening and toning properties, particularly for the nervous system and the head. Thus it is indicated for migraines, headache, nervous debility, anxiety and tension. It is astringent and useful for external application to bites, stings, minor wounds and bruises. Internally it stimulates the circulation and is said to be useful for head colds. It was also used for poor digestion and heartburn as well as women's problems such as menopausal hot flashes etc. Children who for some reason fail to thrive, were also said to benefit from this herb.
Magical:
Betony is an herb of protection, especially against scary visions, nightmares and fantasies. It is also said to protect against snakes and is sometimes planted around the house for this purpose. It is also mentioned in connection with love magic, in particular to protect against the unwanted effects of love charms.
Black nightshade is yet another member of the Nightshade family ... our Black Nightshade is wildcrafted.
From Sarah Lawless:
Ruling Deities: Hecate, Isis, Saturn, Hades
Found wild in the woods, desolate spots, hedges, and wastelands, this nightshade is also poisonous, but the well-ripened berries are okay in very small amounts. Black Nightshades are not hallucinogenic. Black nightshade can be found as a food plant in India and Ethiopia although this is not recommended. Can be used as an offering for communion with the underworld spirits and gods.
NOTE: leaves and roots emit toxic fumes when burned... use in a well ventilated area.
Please Note: While considered edible if prepared correctly Black Nightshade does contain solanine which can be poisonous. Also tests the particular Black Nightshade we are selling (this is wildcrafted from an area where Atropa does not grow) in the past has shown positive for Atropine (the toxin found in Belladonna) therefore this sold as curio only
DO NOT INGEST
In the days of antiquity all mallows were highly revered, though most authors reserved their greatest admiration for the healing virtues of Marsh Mallow. Nevertheless, other species of Mallow such as Malva sylvestris, or the closely related Malva neglecta, were also commonly used, especially among country folk, who, depending on local availability, may not have had easy access to true Marsh Mallow. Mallows are humble and gentle herbs, soothing and cooling in nature. The whole herb including roots, leaves, flowers and seeds are useful and edible and in previous times were commonly eaten as vegetables. Not everybody likes their mucilaginous texture though, when they are served as food, except when it comes in the form of Marshmallow candy. Mallow is also said to stimulate a different sort of appetite: Mallow seeds sprinkled on the private parts are supposed to enhance the sexual appetite in men, while eating the seeds is said to act as an aphrodisiac for women.
In Italy and Spain it was said that a daily draft of Mallow tea would preserve one against any illness at all. While this sounds a little bit too good to be true, Mallows do soothe a great variety of conditions and are worth keeping in mind. The flowers contain a blue pigment, which was used as a natural 'blue rinse' for greying hair in the days before chemicals were commonly used in cosmetics and hair care. Mallow flowers make a lovely and colorful addition to bathwater, adding their soothing and softening qualities for the benefit of the skin.
Traditional:
Mallows soothing and softening quality is due to the great quantities of mucilage contained in all parts of the plant. The flowers are particularly useful as a soothing gargle or tea for afflictions of the throat, such as hoarseness or a tickling cough. It is best to make a cold water extract though, as this preserves the soothing qualities of the mucilage compounds much better. A steam inhalation of Mallow, Elderflowers and Chamomile flowers is useful for coughs and pulmonary infections. A steam bath of Mallow flowers is also said to be useful for ear infections. A hair rinse can be prepared that not only serves as a mild dye, but also softens the hair and gives it elasticity, which is especially useful as a tonic conditioner for fragile and easily breaking hair. The rinse can also be used for skin sores, dry or hardened skin, although true Marshmallow may be even more effective in such cases. Mallow softens and moistens anything that is hard and dry.
Magical:
Mallow is cooling and soothing, yet due to its mucilage properties it is also useful for stimulating the heat of passion. It can be used as an aphrodisiac and for fertility rites. It can be added to incense mixtures for protection against disease, to enhance fertility and facilitate easy delivery of healthy babies.
Violets are lovely harbingers of spring. Early in the season, when the sun barely warms the ground, they put out their lovely violet flowers, a promise of the coming spring. In mythology, Violets are linked to Jupiter and Io, one of his beloved. Fearing the revenge of his jealous wife, Jupiter changed Io into a Heifer and created Violets so she could feast on this fragrant food. Although these days Violets are not so much used for food or medicine, in the past they were highly respected. Violet syrup and candied Violet flowers were eagerly anticipated seasonal delicacies. Their healing and cosmetic virtues have been equally esteemed since at least the 10th century. Violets yield an extremely rare and precious essential oil which is used in high class perfumery and recently has also found its way into aromatherapy practice.
Traditional
Violet leaves are soothing and cooling and can be used to treat swellings and bruises. They also act expectorant and demulcent and may be used for cough, whooping cough, laryngitis and tonsillitis.
Externally they are indicated for acne, eczema and dermatitis.
Violet can also be used to stimulate circulation and can relieve fibrosis and rheumatism. Grieves reports anticancer and antitumor activity of the leaves. This may prove a very interesting and promising area of research.
Blue Violet promotes the body’s own cleansing action and offers targeted support for a healthy lymphatic function. (The lymphatic system includes the liver, spleen, tonsils and thymus glands. It is involved in white blood cell production and immune health). Blue Violet’s legendary effects are maximized in combination with Red Clover and Vervain (Verbena)
Magical
Violets bring peace. They may be used to dispel anger and to cool heated tempers. They ward off evil spirits and protect against nightmares. Violets are sacred to Dionysus and symbolize abundance and fertility, yet they are also associated with death - particularly the untimely death of children. Thus, they can be used to meditate on the mysteries of life, death and rebirth and on the abundance of the earth womb, where all life is created and to which it will return.
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
.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
Native Americans taught the first settlers the benefits of this herb. The name of this herb is rather misleading. Boneset is not used to mend bones. Rather, the name derives from its use to treat a form of flu that was so severe that it was given the name 'break-bone' - it is for this break-bone influenza that boneset was deemed effective.
Traditional
Native American used Boneset to combat feverish infections, such as the flu, measles etc. In the old days it was highly valued in cases of intermittent fevers, malaria and even syphilis and yellow fever.
Its diaphoretic properties help the body to sweat out the infection while gently stimulating and cleansing the other channels of elimination.
Boneset offers a truly holistic approach to dealing with feverish infections. It is excellent in soothing all the symptoms associated with the flu - congestion of the respiratory tract, pulmonary catarrh, aches and pains, constipation etc. Boneset is also indicated in pulmonary conditions of the elderly where there may be plenty of phlegm, but not enough power of expectoration. It is a gentle aid in cases of muscular rheumatism.
Magical
Not much is known about the magical uses of this herb. It wards of demons of disease and can be used for inner cleansing and protection.
A fragrant bush, native to South Africa and a member of the Rue (Ruta) family, Buchu leaves belong to the traditional material medica of the San and Khoi-Khoi people.
Medicinal:
Buchu leaves have traditionally been used as a digestive tonic and urinary remedy. Externally an infusion was used as a wash for wounds and as an insect repellent. The Dutch settlers adapted the use of this herb and steeped it in alcohol to soothe stomach troubles. It was introduced to Britain in 1821. Today it is mostly used in combination with other herbs to treat inflammation of the bladder, urethritis, and prostatitis.
Magical
In Africa the herb is considered protective and the leaves are sometimes sprinkled around the house to ward off evil influences. Sometimes also worn as an amulet or used as a protection bath.
With its common name, Mexican Dream Herb it is no surprise that this plant has been used traditionally to intensify dreams during sleep states. For centuries, the herb has been used by native Mexicans for divination and the inducement of lucid dreaming. The Chontal Indians are known to use Calea zacatechichi to obtain divinatory messages during dreaming. It is considered a healing plant in general and is known by many tribes as ‘Leaf of God’ for its ability to clear the senses as well as induce visions in dreams.
DREAMING
The leaf has been known to produce a drowsy and relaxed state, that some refer to as dream-like, along with a sense of clarity. A study revealed that C. zacatechichi increased the number of overall dreams experienced, the ability to recall the dreams experienced, and the intensity of hypnagogic imagery experienced while falling asleep. Some reports also state other effects include spontaneous lucid dreams and increased dream clarity and realism
It has been used for thousands of years in traditional folk medicine as an appetite stimulant, cleansing agent, calming agent, laxative, and for treatment of diarrhea, dysentery, fever, skin rashes, swollen scalps, ‘cold stomach’ and headache.
If you want to explore your own consciousness, experience more vivid dreams, lucid dream or deepen your relationship with yourself, then Calea Zacatechichi is a must!
The use of catnip leaves and flowers in herbal teas was documented at least as early as 1735 in the General Irish Herbal.
Medicinally, the plant has been used to treat intestinal cramps, for indigestion, to cause sweating, to induce menstruation, as a sedative, and to increase appetite.
It is gentle and is very useful for children and infants with digestive or emotional disturbances.
Magical Uses:
Cat Magic, Love, Beauty, Happiness. Give it to your cat to create a psychic bond between the two of you.
Use in love sachets with rose petals.
Attracts good spirits and great luck.
Used in beauty and happiness spells.
Large pressed leaves are used for bookmarks in magical texts.
Mix with dragon’s blood in an incense to rid oneself of bad habits or behavioral problems.
This pretty little herb is named after Chiron, the Centaur of Greek mythology, who was known throughout the ancient world for his exceptional healing skills. Even though he was an immortal God, he had a unique gift of empathy for human suffering, as he himself suffered an incurable wound, which accidentally had been inflicted on him by means of an arrowhead that bore the deadly poison of the Hydra. Centaury herb came to Chiron's aid and so the ancients praised it as a miraculous wound herb and for its efficacy in treating snake bites. In German, Centaury, is known as 'Tausendguldenkraut', which literally translates to '1000 guilder herb', a reference to its preciousness
Traditional
Connoisseurs of Vermouth recognize Centaury as one of the key botanical ingredients. Herbal enthusiasts know the bitter tonic as a primary herb for invigorating digestive and stomach functions.
Centaury has an outstanding record for supporting digestive health. Research shows it increases the stomach secretions, which promotes better breakdown and assimilation of nutrients. For an effective bitter tonic, try sipping the tea approximately ten minutes before meals. Centaury can be combined with Chamomile, Peppermint or Ginger to improve the taste and effectiveness.
The commission E approves Centaury as a stomachic, to ease digestive discomfort and to stimulate the appetite. Accordingly, in modern herbal practice it is mostly used as a digestive system tonic. Culpeper praises it as a deobstruent, and says that it possesses the power to clear obstructions from the entire digestive tract, stomach, liver, gallbladder and spleen. He also says that '˜it expels the dead fetus, brings on women's courses and eases the pain of the womb'. The ancients' uses of Centaury as wound herb and first aid remedy for snake bites have today become all but forgotten.
Native to the Southwestern US, chaparral is one of the oldest plants on earth, with a stand in the Mojave desert estimated to be over 11,000 years old.
The stems and leaves of the bush are covered with a sticky resin that screens leaves against ultraviolet radiation, reduces water loss, and poisons or repels most herbivores. This resin is used in herbalism and to protect wood from insects.
It received its name "creosote bush" due to the smell that comes from it when it rains. Its extremely bitter taste keeps it safe from animals that would otherwise graze upon it. It is also regarded as one of the most adaptable desert plants in the world; it was one of the first to grow back in Yucca Flats after the 1962 nuclear bomb tests done there.
Native Americans in the Southwest held beliefs that it treated many maladies, including sexually transmitted diseases, tuberculosis, chicken pox, dysmenorrhea, and snakebite.
The Coahuilla Indians used the plant for intestinal complaints and tuberculosis.
The Pima drank a decoction of the leaves as an emetic, and applied the boiled leaves as poultices to wounds or sores. Papago Indians prepared it medicinally for stiff limbs, snake bites, and menstrual cramps. The shrub is still widely used as an herbal medicine in Mexico
Due to concerns over potential Kidney and Liver issues it is recommended that it only be used externally.
Magical:
Chaparral is sacred to Native American peoples of the southwest. It is burned alone or as part of a greater smudge ritual to cleanse the home or working area. Because the resin of the Chaparral bush prevents other species from growing near it, it can be used for protective magic especially for protecting a home.