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Back in those primordial days there were many species of Ginkgo, but they were all swept away in the successive waves of mass extinctions that repeatedly wiped the life from the surface of our planet. All, but Ginkgo biloba, which today is the only species in the only genus of the prehistoric order of ginkgo plants.
Ginkgos are neither deciduous nor coniferous, they actually form a distinct order of their own. Throughout their ancient history they have managed to survive by virtue of their adaptability. Yet, had it not been for Buddhist monks in Japan and Southeast Asia, who held these trees sacred and tended them in their temple gardens, Ginkgoes would be extinct today. Although once upon a time they were widespread throughout the temperate climate zone, today they only survive in cultivated stands. They made their comeback to Europe some 200 years ago and after it transpired that this tree is extremely resistant to environmental toxins and even to radiation the world of science is lavishing new attention on this grandfather tree. In Hiroshima 800 meters from the epicenter of the world's most devastating nuclear explosion, a Ginkgo tree which was believed to have been destroyed like everything else in its surroundings, began to sprout a fragile sprig of hope just one year after the cataclysmic event. Today that sprig has grown into a tree once more, symbolizing hope and the immortal power of nature and life.
Medicinal: In China Ginkgo is well known as a tonic that ensures longevity and vitality. It is an excellent stimulant for the circulation, particularly the peripheral circulation and the flow of blood to the brain, which has proven to be of great service to age related conditions, such as memory loss, loss of nerve function, e.g. ocular degeneration and tinnitus. Numerous pharmaceuticals for age-related conditions today are based on Ginkgo, which are among the most frequently prescribed drugs. Gingko is a powerful antioxidant which kills free radicals and can thus help prevent many conditions that are at least partly caused by these scavengers. In China Ginkgo is also considered very helpful for respiratory conditions and is often prescribed for asthma and allergies. The nuts, which are edible, are considered aphrodisiac, although the effect is more tonic than stimulant
. Magical Considering the survival skills of this ancient tree, it is not surprising that it should have come to symbolize longevity, the undying life-force and hope against all odds. The split nature of its leaves imply a symbolism of duality as opposites are united in one form. Ginkgo nuts are considered an elixir of life and are used to build potency, stamina and virility and are also associated with fertility, More than any other tree, Ginkgo has become the beloved tree of philosophers and poets.
This plant is very aptly named, for it is indeed a golden rod when the stem is beset with its golden flowers.
The Latin name, Solidago means 'makes whole', which alludes to the plants former primary use as a wound herb. Back in the Middle Ages various different wound herbs were all bunched together under this generic term. Linné gave Golden Rod its by-name 'virga aurea' which means - golden rod, and these days is often shortened to virgaurea.
There are various different species of Goldenrods, several of which are used medicinally, while others are used as a tea herb to make a simple herbal beverage. However, S. virgaurea is quite bitter
. The golden flowers are like sunbeams caught as flowers, yet not everybody is happy to see them - Goldenrod, often gets the blame as one of the worst offenders during hay fever season. Probably unfairly so, as it is much more likely that Fleabane is the real culprit - Goldenrod on the other hand, is indicated as a healing herb to soothe the symptoms of asthma and hay fever.
Medicinal
The old herbalists praise this herb for its wound healing abilities, for which it was used inwardly and outwardly. It staunches bleeding and speeds the healing process.
It has been used to treat the symptoms of a cold and as a gargle for sore throat.
But what this herb really excels in is the treatment of kidney and bladder conditions. It appears to be a specific for the kidneys and can restore them like no other herb. It acts as a strengthening, cleansing tonic that purifies bladder and kidneys in case of infection and can even clear stones and gravel.
It is also indicated to treat oral or vaginal thrush caused by candida as it appears to have antifungal properties that are active against this yeast.
Magical:
The rods once used to be used as dowsing rods to search for water veins or hidden treasures. Incidentally they were also said to mark the spot (grow) where treasure had been hidden.
Gotu Kola is an inconspicuous herb that likes to grow in tropical swamps. It is not absolutely certain where it originated, but some sources suggest it may have traveled from Africa, via Madagascar to India, where it is a highly revered household herb with a great reputation as a panacea. Gotu Kola is one of those Elixirs of Life, that is said to stimulate Chi, the life force. Gotu Kola is said to increase longevity, vitality and potency and Ayurvedic doctors often prescribe it to the elderly to counter the effects of aging. It has also long been held sacred and valued as a meditation aid, as it enhances the ability to concentrate. Due to a mistaken association with Kola nuts, it is sometimes suggested that its effects are due to caffeine, but Gotu Kola does not contain caffeine and is not related to Kola nuts. Unfortunately its beneficial effects are not shared by the common European species Centella vulgaris.
Traditional:
Gotu Kola can be used for many different conditions. It is an excellent supportive herb for the elderly, which aids mental and nervous functions and counteracts memory loss. It can also be given to hyperactive children to increase their attention span. It is an overall tonic which appears to increase the haemoglobin levels in the blood. It is also richer in B vitamins than any other plant - the B vitamins play a significant role in the health of the brain and nervous system. Gotu Kola has also shown amazing effects on wound healing and regeneration of connective tissues. It is traditionally used to treat ulcers, leprosy and skin conditions and has recently shown good results on cellulites and varicose veins. In Ayurvedic medicine it is also used for stomach ulcers, indigestion and as an anti-inflammatory in rheumatoid conditions. It may be useful in Lupus and ME, but more studies need to be done.
Magical:
Gotu Kola is an excellent herb to aid meditation as it clears the mind and enhances the ability to concentrate. It is a great elixir of life and can be used for longevity, virility and fertility. It is said to enhance sexual stamina and may be useful in tantric practices and sex magic.
Once upon a time, Ground Ivy as well as many other aromatic herbs were used for brewing ales. Brewing recipes varied, depending on the season. Ground Ivy was especially linked to midsummer brews. It is claimed that it enhances the inebriating effect. Ground Ivy was also regarded as a magical herb of protection. In particular it was used as counter-magic against bad spells that affect the cattle's ability to give milk.
Medicinal:
Ground Ivy is a wonderful, gentle tonic and blood cleansing herb. It stimulates the endocrine system and the metabolism, which is why it was always included in spring cleansing diets and elixirs.
It has traditionally been used to clear chronic or acute congestive conditions of the head and upper respiratory tract, including ear troubles and tinnitus that originate from unresolved ear infection or congestive head colds.
Externally it has also been used as a wash to treat slow healing, festering wounds and sore gums.
Magical:
Ground Ivy increases perceptive powers, and enhances extrasensory perception: auras may become visible, energy fields may be felt, ghosts, spirits and other inhabitants of the Otherworld may become apparent.
Hawthorn has been used since the Middle ages, with some accounts going back as far as the first century to Greek herbalist Dioscorides. It was later used by Swiss physician Paracelsus (1493–1541 CE). Considered to be a particularly symbolic tree with many folktales and magical myths surrounding it, hawthorn was "sacred tree medicine" to the ancient Druids, and was said to house fairies, specifically when growing with oak and ash trees. However, it was unlucky to bring the flowers into the house, quite possibly because they would bring the fairy folk with them. Hawthorn twigs and flowers were incorporated in the marriage wreath symbolizing chastity and insuring prosperity at Greek weddings and were also used to decorate alters worshipping the goddess of marriage, Hymen. In Ireland, couples desiring hawthorn's blessing would dance around it at marriage ceremonies. The sprigs were attached to newborn's cradles to protect them from evil, and also used to decorate the maypole for the May Day or Beltane ceremony, which celebrated fertility and renewal. The blooming of this tree coincided with the first day of summer which occurred in May. In the traditional medicine of Europe all parts of the tree were appreciated and utilized: leaves, berries, flowers, and the wood. The blossoms were used as a heart tonic and a diuretic, and the berries and leaves were made into an astringent tea to soothe throats. The bright red sumptuous berries were also made into a tasty brandy cordial. Additionally, the wood was carved into smaller objects such as boxes and combs and burnt as fuel producing wood fires that were extremely hot.
Hawthorn or 'shanzha' has been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) since ancient times, however most historical uses were related to digestion until recently. It is considered energetically slightly warm, associated with the spleen, stomach, and liver meridians, and reflects both sweet and sour tastes. Presently, it is used to support the cardiovascular system as well, and in fact, in China, the berries are so popular that they are made into hawthorn candies that are similar to the 'fruit roll-ups' in the West. Hawthorn is considered a superior heart tonic by many herbalists. However, its effects on the heart are manifold. Many consider hawthorn to be transformational for the emotional or spiritual heart as well. Herbalist Matthew Becker suggests that hawthorn is specifically helpful for women with "broken hearts" i.e. for those " feeling wounded and hurt." Often the flowers and leaves are made into floral essences to address these types of emotional issues.
Our Special collection of herbs honoring the Norse Goddess of the Underworld!
Contains:- Elder Leaf
- Wormwood
- Mugwort
- Ground Ivy
- Atropa Belladonna Herb
The green powder, commonly known as 'Henna' and used as a natural dye for hair derives from the leaves of a small tree or large bush that belongs to the Myrtle family. It is at home in the dry regions of northern Africa and India, where it is widely cultivated, mostly for cosmetic use. The red color results by means of a fermentation process that is activated when the powdered leaves are mixed with water and left in a hot, moist environment. The different shades of color are derived by admixture of other substances, such as tea or other dye plants. Natural Henna never dyes black. All black Henna products, as well as most commercially available Henna powders contain chemical additives to ensure an even pigmentation. In recent years Henna tattoos, a traditional body decoration usually applied ceremonially at major rites of passage, such as birth, marriage, circumcision and funerary rites, have become popular in the West. However, so called black Henna has been indicated to produce very intense allergic reactions that are due to the chemical additives mixed in to produce the artificial black dye. Red Henna, which has been traditionally used for this purpose does not result in allergic reactions, on the contrary it has some beneficial effects on the skin.
In India, Pakistan and Northern Africa Henna is not only used cosmetically but also for medicinal purposes. The white flowers produce a delightful fragrance and have been distilled to produce an essential oil and flower water which are used in perfumery. It is often planted as a hedge plant since its spiny thorns deter animals and intruders.
To dye hair red with natural Henna, mix the powder with hot water until it has the consistency of creamy spinach. Apply thoroughly to the hair, taking care not to rub it into the skin below the hairline, as it will dye the skin as well. Wear plastic gloves to protect your hands as well. Natural red Henna is beneficial for the hair, adding luster and volume. The color wears off over a period of time.
Medicinal:
Henna has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, which have been used medicinally to treat athlete's foot and other skin diseases, boils, burns, bruises and inflammatory conditions of the skin as well as chickenpox, small pox and leprosy. The medicinal use of Henna is widespread in Ayurveda, Unani and traditional folk medicine of India, Pakistan and Northern Africa, where seeds and roots as well as the leaves are used internally for various conditions, from diarrhea, to enlarged spleen or as a contraceptive.
Magical:
The red dye of Henna traditionally represents the color of life and is thus associated with all rites of passage: birth, circumcision, marriage and death. It is considered protective against evil influences, malevolent spirits and the evil eye. Henna has also traditionally been associated with love and sexuality, its fragrant flowers adding a seductive perfume to its protective shade.
For small animals (<150lbs) 1 Dropper a day until crisis is over. Maintenance dose 1 Dropper once a month For larger Dogs and Animals >150 lbs please contact us for larger quantities
While related to the more well-known Ocimum basilicum, the basil used in cooking, Holy Basil is a medicinal herb used to make teas and extracts. It's known as a sacred plant in India.
All parts of the holy basil plant act as an adaptogen. An adaptogen is natural substance that helps your body adapt to stress and promotes mental balance. The concept of an adaptogen is a holistic approach. But scientific research shows that holy basil has pharmacological properties to help your mind cope with many types of stress.
According to the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, holy basil has antidepressant and anti-anxiety properties comparable to diazepam and antidepressant drugs. One study found that people who used holy basil once a day felt less anxious, stressed, and depressed. People also felt more social.
Ayurvedic practitioners recommend drinking holy basil as tea using the leaves. And since it’s caffeine-free, it’s okay and even recommended to drink daily. The act of drinking tea can be ritualistic and as calming as yoga. It fosters clear thoughts, relaxation, and a sense of well-being.
A member of the mint family, White Horehound displays attractive whirls of sweetly scented white flowers - but its pleasant first impression belies its intensely bitter taste. Nevertheless, it has claimed a niche in herbal medicine and found its circle of admirers.
In ancient Egypt it was dedicated to Horus, the God of the Morning Sun, and it was variously known as 'The Seed of Horus', 'The Eye of the Star' or 'Bull's Blood'.
Dioscorides recommends it for numerous conditions, including the bites of venomous creatures and the effects of poisons.
These days it is far less popular than it used to be not too long ago - at one time, Horehound candy could be had on any street corner, an effective remedy for sore throats and persistent tickles.
It also was traditionally used as flavoring for beer or may have been smoked as a tobacco substitute.
Before electricity was commonly installed its stems were floated on oil as wicks for nightlights.
Bees love Horehound and beekeepers took advantage of that fact by putting bunches of flowers beneath their beehive in order to encourage the bees to mate.
Farmers utilized Horehound's appetite stimulating effect by placing wreath of the herb around the necks of their cows, which was thought to stimulate their appetite and thus make their milk flow more abundantly.
Medicinal:
Horehound's primary use is for afflictions of the pulmonary organs. It is one of the best remedies for persistent coughs and bronchitis, especially where there is tough phlegm which proves difficult to expectorate. Horehound apparently loosens the phlegm and makes it more liquid so that it can be brought up more easily. It can even be used successfully for whooping cough and asthma.
The ancients also used it for its bitter principles, to stimulate the liver and gallbladder and aid the digestive processes or to enhance the appetite.
It is an intensely bitter herb and the usual way of administration is in the form of syrup.
Recent studies have found Horehound effective in lowering blood sugar levels and cholesterol, which suggests that it may prove beneficial in the treatment of diabetes, however, so far only preliminary studies have been done and more research is necessary.
Magical:
Horehound has a prominent reputation as a counter-magical herb of protection. It is said to "ward off witches" and protect against their evil doings. It seems to have played a role in the ancient Egyptian mystery cults, though its significance today is lost. Its name 'seed of Horus' implies a lunar connection as Horus' seed gave rise to a lunar disk that was born from Seth's forehead and which became the symbol of Thoth, a lunar/mercurial God of magic.
However, Horsetail is an extremely valuable healing herb that should be treasured instead of eradicated. Its main virtue lies in the fact that it is very rich in silicon. In the old days this property made it not just interesting for healing, but it also provided an excellent cleansing agent, which is still valued by certain craftsmen who use it as very fine sandpaper to give a fine polish to metal and precious stones. In the days when blacksmiths were closely allied with alchemists and knew some of their secrets, Horsetail was valued for giving magical strength to weapons and armor. Although gardeners don't like Horsetails, they might appreciate its fungicidal properties as Horsetail infusions are effective in treating mildew and mint rust on blackspot on roses.
Horsetail is an excellent and valuable healing herb, especially for the connective tissues. When bones, hair, nails or teeth are soft or brittle Horsetail gives extra strength. It can also help repair damage to tendons and cartilages, or, used as a gargle, tighten loose teeth and stop gums from bleeding.
It is a very effective styptic and can stop bleeding almost instantly. Thus it is an excellent remedy not just for external wounds, especially gangrene and bleeding eczema, but also for internal bleeding, e.g. bleeding stomach ulcers, bleeding from the lungs etc. Of course, these are serious conditions and professional guidance must be sought before attempting any self-treatment.
Horsetail is also very valuable for all afflictions of the urinary tract, kidney and bladder inflammation, stones and prostatitis. Its immune system stimulating action supports the diuretic action in the treatment of these conditions. For even greater effectiveness, sitzbaths should be taken alongside the herbal tea. Externally, footbaths, wraps, compresses and such are all highly effective topical treatments to strengthen and heal affected body parts.NOTE: Equisetum arvense should not be used by persons with cardiac or kidney disease. Not recommended for long term use or use by children.
Magical:
Horsetail strengthens resolve and defines boundaries. It can be used to make affirmations and commitments firm and to protect one's psychic space against unwanted intrusions. It helps to cleanse unwanted emotional rubble and debris from the system. It is an herb of Saturn.
Contains: Jasmine Flowers, Rose Petals, Red Clover, Birch, Korintje Cinnamon
Irish Moss is an exceptional soothing agent that coats the throat, bronchial & respiratory passage. It also provides comforting support for the delicate tissues of the digestive and gastrointestinal tract
Like most seaweeds, Irish Moss is overflowing with vitamins, minerals and trace minerals, including iodine, vitamins A, D; as well as the electrolyte minerals calcium, magnesium, sodium & potassium.
But Irish Moss has a beauty bonus too! It strengthens nails, soothes & moisturizes skin, and is traditionally added to baths, soaps and skincare blends.
Magical Uses - Irish moss can be carried or placed beneath rugs to increase luck and to ensure a steady flow of money into the house or pockets of the person.
Irish moss can also be carried while on trips for protection and safety, or used to stuff luck or money sachets.
Thyroid support And so much more! This is an herbal iodine source, supports thyroid function, and boosts metabolism.
Let Kelp unlock the secrets to a healthier, more beautiful you! The nutrient-packed sea vegetable supports thyroid and glandular health, raises energy levels, and promotes healthy hair, strong nails, and a beautiful complexion.
Kelp is a gift from the ocean that provides valuable iodine and important minerals and sea nutrients. Try this amazing seaweed in vegetable juice, soups, and salads; add to your own custom super green food blend.
Nutritionist Hint: Dr. Susan Smith Jones suggests Kelp Granules as a seasoning instead of salt. Sprinkle on food or mix with Cayenne and Garlic for a spicy seasoning blend! You can also add Kelp Granules to tomato juice, vegetable juice, soups and salads.
Traditional:
Kelp can be regarded as a nutritive agent. It is very rich in minerals and iodine and thus has the ability to restore and re-mineralize the body. The high iodine content has a stimulating effect on the thyroid gland which affects the metabolism. It has been used to tackle obesity caused by sluggish thyroid function. Its demulcent properties help to keep arteries supple and may ease digestive disorders, heartburn, bronchitis, and emphysema. It has been used in the treatment of arthritis and rheumatism, for both internal and external applications.
Magical uses:
Includes healing, protection, travel protection, psychic powers, business success, attracting customers, and any type of water/sea/wind magic. Also Called: Sea Grass, Seaweed, Bladderwrack, and Seawrack
Lady's Mantle is an intriguing little herb of the Rose family that is mostly admired for its lovely foliage rather than its inconspicuous flowers. The velvety leaves are almost star-shaped, with folds that are reminiscent of a Lady's cape. The flowers on the other hand are barely noticeable, tiny little clusters of yellow-green flowers growing in bunches on a tall stalk. Nevertheless, they are rich in nectar and attract plenty of bees.
Alchemilla - the "little alchemist" was highly revered by the great alchemists, who went out early in the morning to collect the magical dew from the leaves of this plant - for this was no ordinary dew. Lady's Mantle "sweats" crystal clear pearls of water, which collects in the center of its funnel-shaped leaves. These pearls of magical dew were deemed essential to the Alchemist's "Great Work": to produce the Philosopher's Stone.
On a more mundane note, women also sometimes collected the dew - not in search of the philosopher's stone, but in search of eternal beauty: they believed that to moisten the skin with the sacred dew would impart a special radiance of elfin allure.
Medicinal:
As the name suggests, Lady's Mantle is a woman's herb and used for many female complaints. Lady's Mantle is a powerful astringent that can stop undue flows such as excessive menstruation or leucorrhoea. It is also said to regulate the female cycle. It is given to strengthen the uterus and is believed to thus increase fertility.
Its tightening qualities were also applied externally to female genitalia "to make them more virginal". In a similar vein some women applied compresses to their breasts in order to make them more firm.
Dioscorides praises this herb mostly for its ability to stop bleeding, which makes it an excellent wound herb that can be applied both, externally or internally.
Magical:
Lady's Mantle is an important plant in the Great Work of Alchemy. The 'dew' drops can also be used to cleanse the third eye to make it more acute to perceive visions and the magical dimension. Originally an herb of Freya, this herb is used in fertility magic and for protection. Lady's Mantle is also associated with Fairy lore - it is said that the Fairies too appreciate the sacred dew, which they collect and drink as a magical elixir.
Sometimes the humblest of herbs bear the greatest treasures. Melissa is a common garden herb and spreads so liberally that some people consider it a weed. No showy flowers, nor pretty seeds, yet its essential oil is precious, indeed. The ancients praised Melissa as 'an herb of Jupiter that gladdens the heart', the Prozac of antiquity it seems, which Paracelsus thought capable of entirely restoring a man's vitality. Other writers admire its ability to strengthen the mind and memory. Melissa is a great herb for students as well as for old people whose memory begins to fade. It brings cheer to those who feel burdened. Lemon Balm is sacred to the Great Goddess and her honey bees, in fact, the name Melissa means 'bee' in Greek, and even in Britain Melissa is sometimes called 'bee balm'. Bee keepers rub their hives with the herb to ensure that their bees will always come back. Similarly, in times gone by, Melissa was used as a strewing herb to keep the home scented sweet and welcoming.
Medicinal:
An excellent herb for the nervous system. It strengthens the vital spirits and eases heart and mind. It can be used for all kinds of nervous conditions such as depression, nervous tension, mental exhaustion, anxieties, phobias, hypochondria and even hysteria. It helps regulate menstrual problems and is helpful for PMS and menopausal problems.
It is also useful for the digestive system and can relief cramps and colic due to wind. Old herbals recommend simmering the herb in white wine instead of infusing it with water.
It is a wonderful herb for insomnia and ideal for deep relaxation after a stressful day. It takes away gloominess, tension and depression and gladdens the heart.
Melissa is also known as a premier antiviral agent, which, among other things, is effective for treating Herpes simplex.
Magical:
Melissa enables the student to absorb knowledge more deeply and to commit to memory what has been learned, while refreshing the mind and keeping spirits up. It is also a great herb for dispelling the demons of depression and loneliness. It is very useful for meditation as it helps centering and brings peace to heart and mind. It can be used to open or balance the heart chakra. Melissa may help the practitioner connect with the cosmic flow of prosperity and help gain an understanding of the laws of giving and receiving. Melissa is also well known as a 'dream herb'. It may induce prophetic dreams and can be used for astral journeys
Lemon Verbena originates in Peru and Chile and was first introduced to Britain in 1784. In the 18th and early 19th century it was a common garden plant that was valued for its beautifully fragranced leaves, but it has since then fallen out of fashion. In Mediterranean countries it has escaped from cultivation and can sometimes be encountered in the wild. In Latin America, and to some degree in Spain as well, it was appreciated for its medicinal and therapeutic values - as relaxant and carminative herb. Some sources ascribe it aphrodisiac properties though this is not so much due to any direct, stimulant action, but rather the result of its ability to relax an overly excited mind and to awaken sensual awareness. Lemon Verbena is often confused with Vervain, a herb that belongs to the same family, but otherwise bears little resemblance as far as energy or attributes are concerned.
Traditional:
Lemon Verbena is refreshing, yet soothing and calming. A very pleasant tasting tea can be made as a digestive tisane. It also soothes the mind and make a good relaxing bed time tea that brings deep and peaceful sleep. Thus Lemon Verbena can be included in blends for all sorts of stress related conditions, especially those that affect the stomach. Lemon Verbena stimulates creativity and may help to overcome inertia and listlessness. It and may also help those who have difficulties enjoying sensual pleasures.
Magical :
Lemon Verbena is well suited to connecting with the inner child. It opens the mind to experiencing familiar things in a new light. It can be used for creative endeavors and for festivals that celebrate the gifts of Mother Earth. It is may be included in love philtres and potions and for rites of sacred union. It may also be used for astral travel and prophetic dreams.