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Two parts of benzoin resin One part gum mastic A Half part lavender A Quarter of wormwood One pinch of mistletoe

https://solitarypaganism.com/herbal-magick/basil-harvesting-storage/ The best time to harvest is on a warm, sunny day, just after the dew has dried and just before the flowers form. But you can harvest basil as you need it. Harvest by pinching off leaves as needed once the plant is strong enough to handle it. If taking a large harvest, leave at least two shoots intact. It will grow back in a few weeks. Hang upside in bunches or lay flat on drying rack to dry. Ensure proper ventilation to reduce the chance of mold. Store in an airtight container away from heat or light for up to one year. The flavor of dried basil is not as good as fresh basil. To maintain better flavor, chop fresh basil and freeze in ice cubes to drop into sauces. Use within one year. You can also freeze whole leaves in a plastic bag. Rub the leaves with olive oil before freezing. Or try mixing chopped basil with butter and then freezing. This is good for fish. Basil can also be preserved by using it to make pesto, herbal butters, and vinegar or make and can sauces while your basil is still fresh. Basil leaves can also be packed in jars of olive oil. Simply stuff as many leaves as you can into a wide-mouthed jar and top with oil and leave in a sunny spot for a week or so, shaking periodically. Then store in a cool spot.

Basil is sacred to Vishnu, Tulasi and Erzulie, masculine in nature, and associated with the element of fire and the planet Mars. Basil helps steady the mind, brings happiness, love, peace, and money and protects against insanity. Use basil in spells to attract love and in preparation for astral projection or to bring luck in physical journeys. Apparently carrying a leaf in your pocket or wallet will attract money. Placing one in your cash register will attract money there too. Soak basil in water for three days and then sprinkle the water over the threshold of your place of business to bring in customers and keep away thieves. (Haiti) Dust the upper half of your body, especially over your heart, with powdered basil to keep your lovers eyes only on you. (S. America) Keep a bit of basil in each room to protect the home and family. To protect you when leaving the house, rub some basil on your forehead. (Hindu) Also used in peacemaking spells and to make up after a fight.

Basil, Healing Attributes https://asolitarypaganwitchesgrimoire.com/herbal-magick/basil-healing-attributes/ Basil tea after a meal is said to aid digestion and prevent flatulence. It is used for many stomach complaints, where a calming affect is desired, such as stomach and abdominal cramping due to gas or other reasons and also for digestive ailments. It has a mild sedative action and is also useful for nervous headaches and anxiety. Holy Basil is used in Ayurvedic Medicine to increase the body’s resistance to stress, to enhance adrenal function and for physical and mental endurance and to balances the chakras. The oils of basil have antibiotic and antifungal properties.

https://asolitarypaganwitchesgrimoire.com/herbal-magick/culinary-use-of-basil/ Used in many Italian, Mediterranean and Thai dishes. The main ingredient in pesto and one of the herbs in chartreuse. It’s excellent with most meats, beans, tomato dishes, pasta, rice, eggs, cheese, soups and stews. It adds interest to mildly flavored vegetables. It blends well with thyme, garlic and lemon. Heat reduces basil’s flavor and aroma, so always add it near the end of cooking. The seeds of several types of basil, soaked in water until they become gelatinous, are used in Asian desserts. Try basil mayonnaise or herbal butter. The best sandwich in the world consists of soft goat cheese spread on toast and several slices of fresh, homegrown tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Serve the bread on the side and drizzle with balsamic vinegar and you have the best salad in the world.

https://asolitarypaganwitchesgrimoire.com/herbal-magick/preparing-herbs-for-use/ Capsules Use all natural gelatin capsules when using powdered herbs. Many herbs have a bitter taste, this often is the medicinal value in the herb, but makes teas unpleasant. Capsules can be used to take herbs quickly and pleasantly. Decoction This is a preparation made by boiling herbal substances in water for a considerable period of time, usually about 30 minutes. Hard materials such as pieces of roots, bark, seeds, etc. are usually prepared in this way as they require longer subjection to heat in order to extract their active principles. Generally 1 ounce of the botanical substance is placed in 1 pint of cold water. the container is then covered and the solution allowed to boil for one-half hour, after which it is then strained, cooled and ready for use. However, since some of the water boils away, may herbalists prefer to use 1 1\2 pints of water so that when the boiling period has ended, the decoction measures approximately 1 pint. Fomentation Dip cloth in the infusion or decoction, wring it out, and apply locally. Infusions Infusions are frequently called teas, and are generally prepared in the amount of 1 ounce of the plant substance to 1 pint of water. However, sometimes plants contain very active principles, and little less herb is sufficient. Bring the water to a boil and pour over the herb, in a covered container, let the solution steep (stand) for 15 minutes (stirring occasionally). When the steeping has ended, strain the infusion and use. Infusions can be prepared by placing 1 teaspoon of the plant substance in a cup and pouring boiling water over it. It is then covered with a saucer and allowed to steep for 15 minutes, after this, it is strained and used. Sometimes a little honey is added to make the infusion more palatable. INFUSIONS ARE NEVER ALLOWED TO BOIL. Ointments or Salve An easy method to make a salve or ointment is to take approximately eight parts of vaseline or vegetable shortening and two parts of the herb you are wanting to use. Heat on low heat and stir occasionally for 20 minutes. Let cool, strain into glass or porcelain container with a wide opening, for easy assess. Poultices Poultices are used to apply moist heat to draw or soothe. Fresh leaves of the particular herb called for is bruised and steeped in boiling water (only enough to moisten) for a short time. The leaves are then spread between two pieces of cloth and applied as hot as possible, then, covered with a dry cloth to retain heat. A second poultice is prepared while the first one is still being used. It is to replace the first poultice the moment it begins to noticeably lose heat. The powdered herb of a plant may be substituted for the fresh leaves. Use enough of the powdered herb to make a paste. The paste is then spread between two pieces of cloth, applied and renewed, several times. Syrup Boil tea for 20 minutes, add 1 oz. glycerin, and seal up in bottles, as you would fruit. The small juice bottles bought at the `quick stops’ are just the right size for this. Tincture These are spirit preparations made with pure or diluted alcohol (not rubbing alcohol), brandy, vodka, or gin is the best. Tinctures are used because some herbs will not yield their properties to water alone, or may be rendered useless bay application of heat. In other instances, and herb will more readily impart it’s active principles when prepared as a tincture. Usually, 4 ounces of water and 12 ounces of alcohol is mixed with 1 ounce of the powdered her. The mixture is allowed to steep (stand) for 2 weeks, the bottle should be shaken thoroughly every night. After the 2 weeks are up, the clear liquid is strained off carefully, so as not to disturb the sediment. Strain and discard the sediment. The tincture is then bottled for use.

https://asolitarypaganwitchesgrimoire.com/.../recipe-for.../ Now, here’s my recipe for comfrey salve (at least my latest version of it; I keep modifying it each time I make it). Use the following to make the oil base using the directions indicated above. 1 pound comfrey leaves ¼ pound calendula herb 1 gallon virgin olive oil Add 8 ounces of melted beeswax to the strained and heated oil and beat as it cools as described above. When the oil and beeswax mixture has barely started to thicken add the following: 8 ounces lanolin ½ cup glycerine ½ ounce peppermint oil This makes a wonderful salve for minor injuries like cuts, scrapes, bruises, diaper rash, burns and so forth.

https://asolitarypaganwitchesgrimoire.com/herbal-magick/making-herbal-salves/ Herbal salves are fun to make and use. This article will give you the general instructions for making any herb into a salve, then provide you with a recipe for our favorite, comfrey salve. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the process. I’ve had a lot of fun trying different herbs and ingredients. If you come up with a good recipe yourself put it in the database for the rest of us. Step 1: Selection of Herb(s) The first step in making an herbal salve is to decide which herb or herbs you want to use in your salve. The herb(s), of course, will be selected based on what you want the salve to do. My favorite herb to use in a salve is comfrey because of its tissue healing nature. Other herbs that might be used in salves include: calendula, yarrow, gum weed, yellow dock, golden seal, burdock, pau d`arco and so forth. The herbs may be used fresh or dry. The dry herbs are easier to use, however, the fresh herbs may have healing qualities missing in the dry herbs. Step 2: Making an Herbal Oil Once you have the selected herb(s) you will need to process them into an herbal oil. This is done by extracting the chosen herb or herbs in a high quality oil. Because of its healing properties I usually use pure olive oil, although other oils will work as well. Even lard could be used in a pinch. The formula for this is very easy to remember. Use about one to one and a half pounds of dried herbs per gallon of oil. Adjust this ratio downward depending on how much herbal oil (and eventually) herbal salve you want to mak (1/2 gallon oil equals ½ to ¾ pound of herbs, and so forth). For fresh herbs, simply stuff as much of the fresh herb into the oil as you can and still have the oil cover th herbs. Place the oil and the herbs in a large stainless steel or enamal container (Never use aluminum, teflon or cast iron) and put the container in the oven. Now, set the oven to the lowest temperature setting possible (usually around 100 to 120 degrees) and leave the herbs in the oven to extract in the oil. When using dry herbs you should leave them in the oven for at least 12 hours. You can leave them up to 24 if you like. When extracting fresh herbs, you will need to leave them in for at least 24 to 36 hours. The fresh herbs must remain in the oven until the herbs are crisp. This is to ensure that all the moisture in the fresh herbs has evaporated out of the oil. If the water from the fresh plant juices is mixed in you salve, it will spoil (go rancid) very rapidly. I know, I did it once. To speed the evaporation, you may want to prop the oven door open slightly with a wooden spoon. After the herb has been extracted in the oil, you will need to remove it from the oven and strain it. It is best to strain the oil while it is still warm, but let it cool long enough that it won`t burn your hands to handle it. Strain the oil through several layers of cheese cloth if you are using large pieces of herb. Powders will need to be strained through a fine cloth (a piece of cotten sheet for example). Once you have strained most of the oil out of herbs you can let the remainder drip out by suspending the herb material in your cheesecloth or cloth over a container to catch the drips. You now have an herbal oil. This oil can be used just as it is as a wonderful topical healing agent, but it is somewhat difficult to use because it is so runny that it doesn`t stay in place ver well. Hence, it is best to harden it slightly into a salve. Step 3: Hardening the Oil To harden the oil you will need some beeswax (in a pinch one could sustitute pariffin for beeswax). You will need at least ½ pound (8 oz) of wax per gallon of olive oil. Eight ounces of wax per gallon makes a soft salve. If you want a harder salve add a couple more ounces of wax. Place the wax in a clean, empty tin can and place the tin can in a pan of water on the stove. This is a makeship double boiler that you will use to melt the wax. The tin can saves you from having to clean wax out of your cooking pans. Bring the water in the pan to a slow boil and simmer the can of wax until the wax is melted. Meanwhile, you should also warm the oil. If you try mixing hot wax with cool or cold herbal oil, the wax will not blend smoothly and evenly, but will tend to get lumpy, like bad gravy. When the oil is warm and the wax is melted, pour the wax into the oil and begin beating the oil with a hand-powered egg beater. Do not use an electric beater, it will whip too much air into the salve. You will need to gentle beat the salve, peridocially scrapping the sides until the salve begins to cool to ensure that the oil and wax blend smoothly. To hasten the cooling process, you can set the pan into a sink full of cold water. (Be sure to scrape the sides, as the salve will tend to cool around the outside edges first. Step 4: Add Final Ingredients As the salve begins to cool you can add other ingredients which might have been destroyed by heat or which may enhance the salve`s healing ability. Such ingredients might include: volatile oils (for fragrance and preservative qualities), vitamin E (for healing and preservative qualities), vitamin A & D (or cod liver oil for the healing qualities of these vitamins), glycerine and/or lanolin (for their soothing and healing properties) and so forth. Step 5: Put in Containers When the salve starts the thicken it is time to pour it into small jars and containers for easy use. Don’t worry if the salve is still quite runny when it is poured. It will thicken (like wax does) as it cools. Clean up your pots and tools with lots of hot soapy water. That’s all there is to it.

https://asolitarypaganwitchesgrimoire.com/.../sources-of.../ VITAMIN A ~ Alfalfa, Burdock, Cayenne, Dandelion, Garlic, Kelp, Marshmallow, Papaya, Parsley, Raspberry, Red clover, Saffron, Watercress, Yellow dock THIAMINE B1 ~ Cayenne, Dandelion, Fenugreek, Kelp, Parsley, Raspberry RIBOFLAVIN B2~ Alfalfa, Burdock, Dandelion, Fenugreek, Kelp, Parsley, Raspberry NIACIN B3 ~ Alfalfa, Burdock, Dandelion, Fenugreek, Kelp, Parsley, Sage PYDIDOXINE B6 ~ Alfalfa, Wheat, Corn, Mugwort COBALAMIN B12 ~ Alfalfa, Kelp VITAMIN C ~ Alfalfa, Burdock, Boneset, Catnip, Cayenne, Chickweed, Dandelion, Garlic, Hawthorn Berry, Horseradish, Kelp, Parsley, Plantain, Papaya, Raspberry, Rose Hips, Shepherd’s purse, Strawberry, Watercress, Yellow Dock VITAMIN D ~ Alfalfa, Watercress VITAMIN E ~ Alfalfa, Dandelion, Kelp, Raspberry, Rose hips, Watercress VITAMIN K ~ Alfalfa, Plantain, Shepherd’s purse RUTIN ~ Dandelion, Rose hips, Rue CALCIUM ~ Coltsfoot, Chive, Chamomile, Caraway seed, Cleavers, Dandelion, Dill, Horsetail, Meadow sweet, Nettles, Parsley, Plantain, Poppy seed, Raspberry, Shepherd’s purse, Watercress, Yellow dock CHLORINE ~ Alfalfa, Dandelion, Dill stems, Fennel stems, Goldenseal, Kelp, Myrrh, Nettles, Parsley, Plantain, Raspberry, Uva ursi, Watercress, Wintergreen COPPER ~ Agar-agar, Dandelion, Dulse, Kelp, Liverwort, Nettles, Parsley, Sorrel FLORINE ~ Corn silk, Dill, Garlic, Horsetail, Plantain, Watercress IODINE ~ Garlic, Irish moon, Kelp, Sarsaparilla, Mustard, Parsley IRON ~ Alfalfa, Burdock, Blue cohosh, Cayenne, Dandelion, Dulse, Kelp, Mullein, Nettles, Parsley, Rhubarb, Rose hips, Yellow dock MAGNESIUM ~ Alfalfa, Blue cohosh, Carrot leaves, Cayenne, Dandelion, Dill, Kelp, Mullein, Nettles, Peppermint, Primrose, Raspberry, Walnut leaves, Willow, Wintergreen, Manganese, Agar-agar, Bladderwrack, Burdock, Dulse, Kelp, Nettles, Sorrel, Strawberry leaves, Wintergreen, Yellow dock PHOSPHORUS ~ Alfalfa, Blue cohosh, Calamus, Calendula, Caraway, Cayenne, Chickweed, Dandelion, Garlic, Irish moss, Kelp, Licorice, Parsley, Purslane, Raspberry, Rhubarb, Rose hips, Watercress, Yellow dock POTASSIUM ~ Alfalfa, Blue cohosh, Birch, Borage, Chamomile, Coltsfoot, Comfrey, Centaury, Dandelion, Dulse, Eyebright, Fennel, Irish moss, Kelp, Mullein, Nettles, Papaya, Parsley, Peppermint, Plantain, Primrose, Raspberry, Shepherd’s purse, White oak bark, Wintergreen, Yarrow SELENIUM ~ Kelp, most seaweeds SILICON ~ Alfalfa, Blue cohosh, Burdock, Chickweed, Corn silk, Flaxseed, Horsetail, Kelp, Nettle, Poppyseed, Raspberry, Sunflower seed SODIUM ~ Apple tree bark, Alfalfa, Cleavers, Dandelion, Dill, Dulse, Fennel, Irish moss, Kelp, Nettles, Parsley, Shepherd’s purse, Thyme SULFUR ~ Alfalfa, Burdock, Cayenne, Coltsfoot, Eyebright, Fennel, Garlic, Irish moss, Kelp, Mullein, Nettles, Parsley, Plantain, Raspberry, Sage, Shepherd’s purse, Thyme ZINC ~ Kelp, Marshmallow

Herbal Minerals & Vitamins in Fresh Vegetables https://asolitarypaganwitchesgrimoire.com/kitchen-witch/herbal-minerals-vitamins-in-fresh-vegetables/ Fresh vegetables provide a cornucopia of goodness and variety adds excitement to your meals. Rotate these winners onto your grocery list and do as your momma says: “Eat your vegetables!” Green beans are a good source of vitamin C, folic acid, iron, and potassium. Dried beans provide protein, B vitamins, folic acid, iron, magnesium, and potassium. Cabbage is high in vitamin C, folic acid, calcium, potassium, and fiber. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, vitamins A and K, and potassium. Yellow corn is high in beta-carotene and lutein.* It also supplies B vitamins, iron, magnesium, potassium, and folic acid. Eggplant is high in fiber, potassium, manganese, and vitamin B1. Leeks are a good source of fiber, iron, and vitamins A and C, and they contain the cancer-fighting phytochemical diallyl sulfide. Okra provides vitamin C and the B vitamins, magnesium, lutein, and potassium. Peas pack plenty of protein, B vitamins, vitamins C and A, manganese, iron, potassium, and lutein. Peppers have lots of beta-carotene; vitamins B6, C, and A; and potassium. Potatoes, with skins, are a good source of protein, iron, vitamin C, and potassium. Shallots are a good source of potassium, vitamin B6, manganese, and folic acid. Summer squash is high in vitamin C, fiber, potassium, and magnesium. Both dark green and yellow squashes are excellent sources of lutein. Sweet potato is an excellent source of vitamins A, B6, and C, iron, fiber, and potassium. Plus, just 1 cup of sweet potato contains four times the recommended daily allowance of beta-carotene!

https://asolitarypaganwitchesgrimoire.com/herbal-magick/herbal-infusions/ As well as magical sachets, you can make herbs into infusions. Add one level teaspoon (5 ml) of coarsely chopped dried herbs or two level teaspoons (10 ml) of freshly chopped leaves or flowers to a cup of boiling water; leave it for five minutes and strain. Once the liquid has cooled, you can sprinkle it round rooms, furniture and personal property or add it to a bucket of water for washing floors. The roots and bark of some plants can be used to make a decoction. Crush and powder two tablespoons (30 ml) of the herb and add to one pint (500 ml) of cold water. Simmer the mixture until the quantity of water is reduced by half and then strain the mixture. Fresh herbs or flowers can be added to your bath in the following way: place them in a net or a piece of muslin – you could even use an old pair of tights – and hang them under the hot tap while you run a bath. Alternatively, allow the bag of herbs to float in the bath for 10 minutes or add a strained infusion to the water. Of course, you can always drink herbs as tea or burn herbal incenses or oils. All these are valid ways of getting the medicinal as well as magical properties from herbs, though you should still charge them magically. However you use them, always bear in mind that herbs are very potent so before you begin you should seek the advice of a trained herbalist or homeopath or read carefully a reliable herbal book

https://asolitarypaganwitchesgrimoire.com/herbal-magick/guide-to-magical-herbs/ All herbs and plants are magic: they are the pure embodiments of the Earth’s spirit, sustaining themselves with sunlight, vibration, water, and stardust (minerals). Herbs and plants feed us, nourish us, and heal us. Indivisibly, they are a necessary and integral part of our magical and spiritual lives as well. There are certain herbs that, after thousands of years of ancestral practice, seem to possess an innately powerful connection to magic. In every culture and in each climate and terrain, there are huge pharmacopoeias of many different herbs with many different uses, all of them valuable and valid. This piece is written from a perspective that is primarily Western and European in knowledge of history. While the following herbs may not have been used in your ancestral culture (though you may be surprised!), there are many herbs that were, and most likely still are. If this aspect is important to you, I urge you to do some digging, as there is one amazing commonality when it comes to herbs—at one point in time, every culture used plant medicine to survive; every culture used herbs in worship and ritual. How magical is that?

https://asolitarypaganwitchesgrimoire.com/herbal-magick/guide-to-magical-herbs-elder-sambucus/ Elder grows on every continent but Antartica, and has been lovingly used by disparate cultures for many of the same ailments. Every culture with documented use of Elder agrees on this too—it’s exceptionally magic. In many European pagan traditions, Elder magic was regarded as that of the “Guardian of the Gateway” between the magical and the mundane, between life and death, light and darkness—a place where opposites meet. Its branches were often hung at the doorways of dwellings for protection; likewise, a hedgerow of Elder along a perimeter of land will not let invasive weeds past it. It is one of the first blooms of the season, in early Spring, with beautiful, cloud-like white flowers; it’s one of the last to fruit, too, in autumn when it produces copious deep, dark purple berries. The branches of the Elder are pliable, and the cork-like center can be pushed out easily, thus making it ideal wood for flutes and wind instruments as well as wands. The most powerful wand in the world, according to legend and not just the Harry Potter series, is a wand made of Elder. There are claims based on Biblical writings that Judas Iscariot hung himself on an Elder and that the crucifix Jesus hung on was made of Elder. Little people and faeries are thought to dwell in the Elder and an old woman, sometimes called the Elder Mother, is thought to be the spirit of the tree. Like Mugwort, Elder is considered feminine in nature and said to induce lucid dreams, often of the faery world. Medicinally, both Elderberry and Elderflower are potent antivirals used as remedies for influenza and respiratory illness.

https://asolitarypaganwitchesgrimoire.com/.../guide-to.../ Used in ritual by the ancient Druids, this extremely bitter herb is beautiful to behold, with clusters of blue-purple flowers on tall, leafless stalks. Vervain is native to Europe while its cousin, Blue Vervain, Verbena hastata, is native to North America and is more commonly used in herbal medicine. Druids used Vervain for divination, consecration, and the ritual cleansing of sacred spaces; it is said that they harvested Vervain in August during the dark moon, when only Sirius the Dog Star is visible in the night sky. Vervain is also said to inspire poets and aid them in their work, and bards would often drink Vervain before performances or soliloquies. Vervain is also said to be connected to the underworld, and taking a drink of Verain in wine on Samhain (Oct 31st) can open up contact with the dearly departed. In Ireland and the British Isles, Vervain was burned in ritual fires to protect crops and livestock on Beltane (May 1st). During the Summer Solstice (Jun 21st) celebrations, it was scattered over fields and gardens to ensure fertile growth. Roman soldiers also considered it to have protectant properties and carried Vervain with them into battle, and their messengers wore a protective wreath of Vervain as a sign of truce and truth. Likewise, Druidic and old Pagan traditions burned Vervain, sprinkled Vervain tea, or hung the dry herb in dwellings to keep out evil, and sometimes the dried stalks were used as wands for spell work. Medicinally, Vervain helps to clear out build ups such as kidney stones; it’s a bitter antispasmodic herb, so it’s great for cramping and tension as well as having antiseptic properties which make it suitable for cleaning wounds.

https://asolitarypaganwitchesgrimoire.com/herbal-magick/guide-to-magical-herbs-clove-syzygium-aromaticum/ Another staple in the spice rack, Clove is a very well known herb in the modern world. Native to Indonesia, India, and the Middle East, Cloves as we know them are dried flower buds harvested from a tropical evergreen tree. At one time, Clove was among the most sought after spices in the world, with the Dutch attempting unsuccessfully to monopolize the trade. In magical use, Cloves are considered masculine by nature and are ruled by the planet Jupiter. Thus, they are associated with binging good luck, fortune, and prosperity to whomever carries them—they are a favorite talisman of gamblers and betting folk, who may make money drawing sachets with Clove to wear. Exchanging Cloves with friends is said to keep the bonds of friendship strong, and having Cloves present during a social gathering is said to promote kinship and harmony. Cloves can be used in ritual work to energize a spell or to further one’s psychic abilities. Cloves are also considered to be an aphrodisiac, and can be used in love or attraction spells. Burning Cloves can have drawing properties, too, but the smoke will also stop malicious rumors and gossip about you from spreading, and mixed with tobacco, they make a sweet-smelling smoke which is also considered to be good luck. Medicinally, Cloves are very potently antimicrobial and are effective against viruses, infection, and influenza. They are also a wonderful digestive aid, powerful against toothaches, and somewhat numbing when applied to the skin.

https://asolitarypaganwitchesgrimoire.com/herbal-magick/guide-to-magical-herbs-bay-laurel-laurus-nobilis/ This tree-like herb is native to Asia and the Mediterranean, but you might have some in your spice cabinet, as it’s sold in stores worldwide today for use as a seasoning in soups and sauces. In Greek mythology, Bay Laurels are said to be the embodiment of Daphne, a nymph who fled from Apollo’s unwanted advances and became a Bay tree to evade him; the Bay is now said to be sacred to Apollo. At The Oracle of Delphi, Bay leaves were smoked and chewed to promote fortune telling and prophecy. Additionally, Bay leaves were made into wreaths to crown victors and distinguished folk in ancient Roman and Greek cultures; triumphant athletes of the Pythic and Olympic games were crowned with laurel as well as the Poet Laureate and Baccalaureate— the term “laureate” comes from Bay Laurel. Bay is believed to have protective qualities, and was worn to prevent lightning strike and by ancient doctors as it was considered a panacea. Bay is a wonderful herb to use for purification, and it is said water can be sanctified by extinguishing a burning Bay leaf in it. Bay has also traditionally been used in banishing spells, and it is recommended to burn after a negative person has left your home to ensure they never return, or after an illness. Writing a wish on a Bay leaf, then burning it, is said to guarantee the wish comes true. Medicinally, Bay is antifungal and antibacterial; a tea can be made of the berries and leaves and consumed for internal infection or applied topically. The tea is also said to be calming and somewhat pain relieving. Bay is especially useful for urinary and uterine issues when added to a bath.

https://asolitarypaganwitchesgrimoire.com/wp-admin/post.php?post=16317&action=edit The active constituents of plants have only relatively recently been isolated. The active constituents in plants are the chemicals that have a medicinal effect on the body. They have been divided into 16 main groups: Alkanoids These plants contain a nitrogen-bearing molecule that makes them particularly effect as medicines. An example is Deadly Nightshade. Anthocyanins Blackberries contain anthocyanins. These plants maintain blood vessel health. Anthraquinones Plants like Chinese Rhubarb that have this active ingredient, stimulate the large intestine, causing contractions and bowel movement. Bitters These plants can be recognised by their disagreeable, astringent or acrid taste. The active ingredient stimulates the flow of saliva and gastric juices, thereby improving appetite and digestive function. Examples are Wormwood and Devil’s Claw. Cardiac Glycosides This powerful constituent is found in plants like Foxgloves. They have a strong direct action on the heart and support and strengthen the rate of contraction. Significantly diuretic, these plants help lower blood pressure. Coumarins Coumarins are multi-tasking constituents that thin the blood, relax smooth muscle and can act as a sunscreen all at once. You can find this active constituent in plants like Celery. Cyanogenic Glycosides These active constituents are found in Elder plants, amongst others. They have a sedative and relaxing effect on the heart and muscles. Flavonoids Flavonoids are found in lemons and are anti-inflammatory, but also maintain healthy circulation. Glucosilinates When plants like Radish, which contain Glucosilinates, are applied as a soft, moist mass onto painful joints, they increase blood flow to the area. This aids in healing as it helps remove the build-up of waste products. Minerals Mineral-rich herbs like Dandelion, can act as mineral supplements in their own right. Mucilage This constituent soothes inflammation and stops irritation and acidity, by lining the mucous membranes of the digestive tract. You can find mucilaginous ingredients in herbs like the Slippery Elm. Phenols If taken internally, phenol-rich plants such as Thyme, are antiseptic and can reduce inflammation. But if used externally on the skin, these plants can have an irritant effect. Saponins There are two types of this constituent, namely steroidal saponins and triterpenoid saponins. The latter are strong expectorants. Expectorants are agents that increase bronchial secretions and facilitate their expulsion through coughing, spitting or sneezing. These agents can also aid in nutrient absorption. Steroidal saponins have a marked effect on hormonal activity. Plants like Liquorice contain saponins. Tannins Tannin-rich plants like the Oak tree can contract the skin’s tissue, thereby improving the skin’s resistance to infection. Vitamins Plants like the Dog Rose, have enough vitamins to contribute to one’s daily intake. Volatile oils These oils are extracted from plants to produce essential oils, which impart the characteristic odours of the plants. Volatile oils from plants like Chamomile, have many therapeutic effects and are used in perfumes, food flavourings and aromatherapy.

https://asolitarypaganwitchesgrimoire.com/magick-recipies/meadowsweet-sorbet/ Meadowsweet sorbet is a special treat. Its relaxing flavor will have you oohing and ahhing with your loved ones. 4 handfuls of Meadowsweet flowers½ pound brown caster sugar3 juiced lemons1 thinly grated lemon rind3 cups of water Directions:Put sugar into water, stir and bring to a boil. Rapid boil the sugar water for 10 minutes to produce a light syrup. Remove the pan from the heat. Now add the juiced lemons and the thinly grated lemon rind. Stir. Next add the Meadowsweet flowers. Stir. Allow to infuse until the syrup is cool/cold. Strain the syrup through a muslin and freeze in a plastic container overnight. Now take out your frozen Meadowsweet syrup (it won’t be that frozen), and blend with a hand-blender until smooth. Then put back in the freezer for 24 hours. Take out and blend again, then freeze for a further 48 hours. Enjoy. Meadowsweet Elixir (From Rosemary Glasdstar) 2 cups meadowsweet flowers2 cups vodka (50% is best)½ cup (scant) glycerin Directions:Place the meadowsweet flowers in a jar. Add the vodka and glycerin to the jar. Shake well. Let this macerate for 4-6 weeks and check on it often. You may find that as the flowers soak up the alcohol and glycerin, the liquid will no long cover the herb. To remedy this you can take a clean stone or weight and use it to weigh down the flowers below the liquid. If necessary, you can add a bit more alcohol to cover the herb. I opened my jar frequently and pushed down the flowers and that seemed to work just fine. Once you are done macerating the herb, it’s time to strain off the mixture. The easiest way to do this is strain it through a cheese cloth which you then squeeze the dickens out of until you get all the moisture from the flowers. Once it is strained you can bottle and label it. Meadowsweet is safe for most people. However, it should be used with caution for the following people children under 16 who have the flu or chickenpox symptoms (because of the rare but serious Reye’s syndrome) people with asthma (may stimulate bronchial spasms) people who are allergic to aspirin As with many herbs Meadowsweet should be avoided when pregnant or breastfeeding.

https://asolitarypaganwitchesgrimoire.com/herbal-magick/meadowsweet/ Meadowsweet is a member of the rose family and can easily be found growing wild along streams and rivers, as well as damp woodlands. It is a high altitude plant that can grow as high as 3,300 feet. It is native to Europe and Asia and was successfully introduced and naturalized in North America. It has a tuberous root that is the key to its scientific name. The name meadowsweet is an Anglo Saxon name, which comes from the fact this herb was used to make mead, and drink made from fermented honey. Another strewing herb, tossed on the floor in the 16th century to warm and scent the floors and keep infections at bay, this was a favorite of Queen Elizabeth the I who preferred it in her bedroom. Gerard, an early herbalist, believed it outranked all other strewing herbs because the scent was delightful and did not cause headaches by being over powering. It was a traditional plant of druids and was in the most sacred category along with mistletoe, watermint and vervain. The sap contained in the branches of Meadowsweet contains a chemical called salicylic acid. Isolated in 1853 by an Italian professor, Bayer formulated acetylsalicylic acid in 1899, they called it aspirin after the old botanical name for Meadowsweet, Spirea ulmaria. The herb is considered much less harsh to the stomach than aspirin. Meadowsweet is especially suited to headaches in which the person has a hot head and feels a pounding sensation in the head. Meadowsweet is cooling and it promotes circulation, which can relieve stagnant energy in the head. Besides having the ability to relieve pain, meadowsweet is also anti-inflammatory in nature. Taken daily as a tea or tincture it can help relieve chronic arthritic pain and inflammation. Stomach aches and acid reflux. My favorite herbs for stomach aches and nausea are ginger, peppermint and meadowsweet. Meadowsweet shines as an herb for stomach aches, nausea and poor digestion and is especially helpful for those who find herbs like ginger to be too warming. Meadowsweet removes stagnation (like when you eat a meal and it stays in your stomach too long) and relieves discomfort in the stomach. To GrowThis hardy perennial grows 2 to 4 feet in height with a spread of 2 feet. Clusters of strong scented creamy-white flowers in mid-summer. The leaves are deeply veined and appear in groups of two to five. All meadowsweet variety are hardy in Zone 4. The seed can be stratified, but is not required. To stratify the seed you need to to place them in a situation where extreme cold will break down the seed coat and end their period of dormancy. Placed in a plastic bag filled with damp sphagam moss or a damp paper towel for a couple of weeks usually does the trick. If in a hurry, run the seeds over a nail file to break the seed coat before planting. Sow prepared seed or plug trays in the autumn. Cover lightly with soil and winter outside under glass (a cold frame would work perfectly. Check from time to time and water as needed when dry. Germination should take place in the spring. When the seedlings are large enough to handle, plant out 12 inches apart into a prepared location. You can also propagate by division. The golden and variegate styles must be propagated by division. In the fall, dig up established plants and tease the plantlets apart; they separate easily. Replant in a prepared site or place in pots. A soil of bark, peat and potting soil works perfectly.The plant prefers sun and semi shade and a moisture retaining soil. If your soil drains well, you will need to add rotten manure or vegetative compost and leaf mold and plant in a more shaded area. Once a plant is established you will need to lift and divide it every 3 to 4 years in the fall to keep it vibrant. To Use Gather young leaves for fresh or dry use before slower appear in mid-summer. Pick flowers just as they open and use fresh or dry. Meadowsweet leaves and flowers can be made into an herbal vinegar that is sweet and lovely for salad dressings. You can also make fritters with the flowers or use them to flavor mead and beer or to make wine. The whole plant is a traditional remedy for an acidic stomach. The fresh root is used in homeopathic preparations and is effective on its own in the treatment of diarrhea. The flowers, when made into a tea are a comfort to flu victims. A black dye can be obtained from the roots when used with a copper mordant, while the flowers can produce a greenish-yellow dye and the leaves and stems make a blue dye. One can also use the dried leaves and flowers in potpourri.A tea made with leaves and flowers will help the body of excess fluid and alleviate heartburn. It is also a treatment for feverish colds and mild diarrhea. It even works as a mild sedative and painkiller. Use one teaspoonful of dried flowers and/or leaf blend to each cup boiling water. Infuse for 10 minutes and drink warm. Add honey and cinnamon to improve taste and soothe sore throats To make a meadowsweet beer; boil 2 ounces each of meadowsweet, betony, raspberry leaves and agrimony in two gallons of water for about 15 minutes. Strain and add 2 pounds of white sugar, stirring to dissolve. Bottle when nearly cool. Add the leaves to soup for a unique and interesting flavor. You can add the flowers to jams and stewed fruit which lends a slight almond flavor.

https://asolitarypaganwitchesgrimoire.com/herbal-magick/threatened-magical-herbs/ While many witches and other magic-users enjoy wild crafting for the ingredients for their rootwork, elixirs, spells and healing preparations, some herbs are threatened by over collection or loss of habitat and should never be collected in the wild. Some are threatened only in certain places and grow in abundance elsewhere. Always check your local DNR’s website to see what herbs are protected in your area and, of course, always get permission before collecting. If an herb is protected, consider using an alternative. There is often another herb you can use in its place with good results. If you really want to use a threatened herb, consider growing it in your yard. Many wild plants will do well if you take the care to recreate their natural habitat. Some localities have native plant societies that conduct plant rescues, retrieving threatened native plants from land slated for development. These may be offered for sale to the public for planting in gardens. Many threatened species are slow growers and take a long time to multiply, but the time and effort you put into it will be reflected in your magic, even if it’s many years later. Note that this list may not be comprehensive and may not reflect the situation in your area. Check with your state’s Department of Natural Resources for the information most pertinent to your locality. Arnica – Arnica spp. Black Cohosh – Actaea racemosa Bloodroot – Sanguinaria canadensis Blue Cohosh – Caulophyllum thalictroides Butterfly Weed – Asclepias tuberosa Cascara Sagrada – Frangula purshiana Gentian – Gentiana spp. Ginseng – Panax quinquefolius Echinacea – Echinacea spp. Eyebright – Euphrasia spp. False Unicorn Root – Chamaelirium luteum Goldenseal – Hydrastis canadensis Kava Kava – Piper methysticum Maidenhair Fern – Adiantum pendatum Mayapple – Podophyllum peltatum Lady’s Slipper – Cypripedium spp. Lobelia – Lobelia spp. Peyote – Lophophora williamsii Sandalwood – Santalum spp. Slippery Elm – Ulmus rubra Trillium, Beth Root -Trillium spp. Unicorn Root- Aletris farinosa Virginia Snakeroot – Aristolochia serpentaria White Sage – Salvia apiana Wild Yam – Dioscorea villosa, D. spp.

Folk Names: Beaver Poison, Herb Bennet, Keckies, Kex, Musquash Root, Poison Hemlock, Poison Parsley, Spotted Corobane, Spotted Hemlock, Water Parsley Gender: Feminine Planet: Saturn Element: Water Deities: Hecate Magical Uses: Another poisonous plant, hemlock was once used in magic to induce astral protection, and in spells to destroy sexual drives. Its juice was rubbed onto magical knives and swords to empower and purify them before use.

Ashwagandha,an ancient medicinal herb, is an evergreen shrub that grows in Asia and Africa. Commonly used for stress, it’s an analgesic that soothes the nervous system from pain response

https://asolitarypaganwitchesgrimoire.com/herbal-magick/herbal-cures-for-anxiety-st-johns-wort/ Used for nerve disorders for over 2,000 years, St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum L) is a perennial, with bright yellow flowers, which grow wild in Europe, Asia, and America. A number of studies have shown St John’s Wort to have a beneficial effect on those who suffer from mild anxiety and depression, although it is not exactly clear how. It is thought that the substance has the ability to prolong the effects of serotonin – a chemical in the body that, when in short supply, can lead to a mood imbalance. What you need to know before taking St John’s Wort: • It can be bought over the counter without a prescription. • It can interfere with other medications, including contraception and anti-depressants, so you should always consult your GP before you take it. • It should not be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding. • It can increase your sensitivity to the sun.