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Special selection of herbs used for protective magic!

Contains:

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

Incredible purifying herb collection for your sacred space use as a sacred smudge to cleanse negative energy

Contains:

• Elderflower
• Sage (white)
• Fumitory
• Feverfew
• English Lavender

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.

NOTE: Sweet Basil is NOT the same as Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum).

Probably originating in the East, Basil (Tulasi) is considered sacred in India, where it is grown around the temples and placed on the altars. Although it arrived in the West in the days of antiquity, the ancients seemed to have felt ambivalent towards its use. Invariably it is associated with demons, dragons and scorpions. Some say it protects against the effects of bites from such venomous beasts, whilst others claim that there is no hope for him who had eaten Basil and was unlucky enough to subsequently be stung by a scorpion. Others deem that scorpions could grow from chopped up basil, while Culpeper even claims that a scorpion would develop in the heads of those who merely smelled the herb too frequently. Basil certainly had an ambivalent reputation.
In Egypt it was associated with the cult of the dead and used in embalming rituals as well as laid on the chest of the deceased. Basil was also placed or grown on the grave. On the other hand Basil symbolized tragic love - 'love washed in tears', while in Italy girls decorated their hair with a sprig of the herb to signal their willingness to a potential suitor.
It is said that Basil would only grow well if sown under a barrage of swearwords, which is why recent writers concluded that Basil is associated with hate. However, in the old days swearing was a kind of protection spell, in the same vein as we might say 'break a leg' to wish someone luck. Swearing, or saying the opposite to what was intended was a 'deception maneuver', thought to avert unseemly attention from the eyes of jealous demons by making a plant, animal or child seem worthless, so they could grow in peace, without becoming the target of envy. Basil is also associated with courage and with money magic, and in Central America it is used as magical wash/ cleansing lotion to attract benevolent spirits.

Traditional
Most of us are unaware of this rich folklore and magical history when we enjoy our tomato salad decorated with fragrant basil leaves. It is as spice that we are most familiar with it. As such, it adds not just flavor, but also its carminative benefits to a dish, dispelling nausea, flatulence and intestinal parasites. Therapeutically it is said to calm nervous excitement and depression and may be useful in states of anxiety and insomnia. Mothers appreciate it for its galactagogue properties. Externally it helps to soothe insect bites and acts as an insect repellent. Basil has proven antibacterial properties.

Magical
Sprinkled around the temple or house, or used in cleansing rites prior to ritual it will attract good spirits and give courage to the practitioner. Basil can be used in the last rite of passage to easy the journey of the soul to the Otherworld. It can also be used to confer courage to the novice during initiation rites. Basil is associated with money magic. Sprinkle the place of business or the till with basil oil or carry some leaves in your pocket to attract money. It can also be included in love philters and potions to attract lovers, though the unions that ensue may be fiery and short-lived.

Tea Tree Leaf is a natural bioactive exfoliant used in personal care products, especially: gentle facial cleansing; bath and shower gels and soaps; hand, leg and foot care soaps; and scrubs.

Our Bundle of Herbs Sacred to Thor !

Contains:

• Juniper (Berries)
• Vervain (Verbena)
• Blessed Thistle
• Burdock Root
• Hawthorn Leaf

The least conspicuous plants are often the most precious. Thyme creeps low across the ground, closely hugging the body of Mother Earth and clothing her in fragrant robes. Yet, its tiny leaves are barely noticeable lest it is in flower. When Thyme springs into blossom, the countryside is transformed, at least in those dry and inhospitable places where it prefers to make itself at home. Each year in early spring, the arid Mediterranean hillsides burst into a pinkish purple, sweet scented wonderland, abuzz with delirious bees that are lapping up the copious nectar.

In ancient times it was customary for Ladies to embroider scarves depicting a sprig of Thyme with a bee hovering above. These they would present to their knights - presumably as an alluring symbol of natural attraction. Thyme was thought a fitting scent even for the Gods. Its very name derives from the Greek word 'thyein', which means 'to burn as a sacrifice', implying its ancient use as incense.

Thyme may seem humble and lowly, but it is packed with power and was once thought to convey courage, strength and bravery. It was used as a strewing herb and as fragrant bedstraw, especially for women in childbed. Yet, it also had associations with the Otherworld and the realm of fairies. The 'hillside where the wild thyme blows', was thought to conceal the entrance to their lovely realm. Thyme was also often planted on graves and used in embalming lotions. Sprigs of Thyme are worn for remembrance and to alleviate grief and sorrow. Although Thyme is no longer revered as it once was, it is still considered very important as a culinary herb and as a source of Thymol, one of the best and most effective antiseptics known. Even now it is widely used as a wound dressing and cleansing agent.

Traditional
Thyme is one of the best agents for respiratory infections such as sore throat, laryngitis or tonsillitis and is one of the best herbs for a tickly, dry cough. It is even said to be effective for whooping cough. Thyme is a powerful antiseptic for both lungs and stomach. It also disinfects the urinary system and can be used for cystitis and urethritis. Thyme may be used as part of a worming regime - worms hate thyme and drinking thyme tea for several days before using a worming agent will so weaken the parasites that they will be easy to dispel.

Thyme also is an excellent stomachic herb, disinfecting the stomach and clearing stomach catarrh. Thyme's well known antiseptic properties make it very effective as a wound dressing and for treating inflamed skin conditions, acne, abscesses, boils and the like. It also soothes insect bites and dispels lice, fleas and other creatures. As a compress it can be used as a circulatory stimulant for arthritis, rheumatism, muscle aches and gout. It detoxifies and can be helpful for water retention and cellulites. It stimulates the uterus and promotes menstrual flow.
Do not use during pregnancy.

Magical
Thyme can be used for protection and cleansing and as an incense offering to the Gods. It imparts strength, courage and bravery and can aide with difficult tasks. Thyme strengthens memory and concentration and may be helpful for those engaged in studies. It can be used as a sign of remembrance and love, especially at funerary rites. Thyme has an affinity with the fairy realm and may attract these elusive beings or help finding access to their world.

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.

It is hard to fathom why this inconspicuous herb with its tiny blue flowers set on squarish spikes has attracted such a phenomenal amount of attention throughout the ages - but it has. From the ancient Egyptians to the Greek and Romans and even to the Druids, this herb was revered like few others. It was said to cure everything and for many centuries it was used by every priest, magician and witch. The ancients regarded it as an herb of Isis or Venus, the Great Goddess, mother of the universe, Goddess of magic and the mysteries of life and death.

The Romans used it as a cleansing herb to sweep and purify their altars. Messengers wore a protective wreath of Vervain as a sign of truce and truth. It was said to protect against all evil and even ward off the devil himself. That did not stop witches and magicians from using it as a magic wand in just about any spell or ritual. The Druids seemed to associate Vervain with Sirius and according to Pliny the Elder, they ritually harvested the herb in August, when the dogstar is visible, but neither the sun nor the moon could be seen in the sky.

In the modern era, panacea herbs like Vervain have often been dismissed, simply because they seemed too good to be true. Thus Vervain is rarely used in herbal medicine today, although Edward Bach, inventor of the Bach flower remedies, brought it back from the brink of oblivion and created a Vervain flower remedy. He recommends it for highly strung individuals who are self-righteous and fanatical about their beliefs and wish to steam-roll the rest of the world with their 'mission'. Vervain flower remedy is used to bring as sense of calm perspective and openness of mind to such people. From all these associations and uses it seems as though Vervain's nature is as a conductor and communicator plant that can clear obstructions and assist the flow of energy in the physical, spiritual and mental spheres.

Medicinal:
The list of conditions and uses for Vervain is inexhaustible. However, it can be summed up as an herb that supports the clearing of obstructions e.g. in the kidneys, liver, gallbladder and spleen. It is said to be helpful for liver congestion and jaundice and is even reputed to break up the stone
. It is a nervine that calms and relaxes tense nerves and thus alleviates a host of stress related symptoms such as mental exhaustion, migraines, depression and headaches. It is also a useful digestive system relaxant, where stress causes indigestion and cramps. It can be helpful in cases of PMT and during menopause.
Externally it can be used to cleanse wounds and putrid ulcers. It is also used as a gargle and mouthwash for infections of the gum and throat.
It can be used for convalescence or as a preventative tonic for numerous stress-related complaints.

Magical:
Vervain is a wonder herb with a very versatile set of magical uses. It clears stagnant energy and can be used for cleansing and consecrating a sacred/ ritual space and to cleanse the auras of the participants. It can be used to conduct and direct magical energy and intentions and also to open the psychic channels. It aids communication with human and spiritual beings. It protects the practitioner against evil forces and manipulative entities.

Medicinal Uses: Breaks fevers, diuretic, expectorant, use for pain from inflammations. Used for snakebite. Seeds were decocted and mixed in wine "to comfort the heart and drive away melancholy"; i.e. as an antidepressant.

Traditional Magical Uses: Keeps away snakes.
Culpeper's Complete Herbal describes Viper's Bugloss as follows:

"It is a most gallant herb of the Sun; it is a pity it is not more in use than it is. It is an especial remedy against the biting of the Viper, and all other venomous beasts, or serpents; as also against poison, or poisonous herbs. Dioscorides and others say, That whosoever shall take of the herb or root before they be bitten, they shall not be hurt by the poison of any serpent."

Shamanic Magical Use:
This is the plant of Jotunheim, the land of giants and trolls. It is a land of great mountains, great storms, great beasts, and great hunters, and this is the herb that hunts down sickness. To use, charge the plant with a spell of seek-and-destroy. I find that this is best done with a song (you don't have to be a great singer or carry a tune, Atterlothe doesn't care) which describes to the plant the nature of the prey, why this prey is its natural enemy and deserves to die, and gives it praise