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FLEA REPELLANT PILLOWS
2 parts pennyroyal 1 part thyme 1 part wormwood
Herbs may be cut or whole; construct a pillow for your pet to sleep on and then stuff it
with the pennyroyal, thyme, wormwood. This makes a nice gift for those favorite
dogs in your life. These herbs help to repel fleas naturally and without harsh chemicals.
INSECT REPELLENT SACHET
Combine together in a bowl:
4 parts Tansy 4 parts patchouli 2 parts lavender 1/2 of 1 part powdered orris root.
Mix the ingredients together fill cloth bags made from remnants. Tie off with a bow.
These make great craft show items, inexpensive gifts or neat items for gift baskets.
BASIL: PROPERTIES AND USES
Basil is a stimulating and antidepressant oil which relieve mental fatigue, clears the mind,
and improves concentration. It is expectorant and antiseptic, used for all types of chest
infections, also good for congested sinuses, chronic colds, head colds and whooping cough.
The antispasmodic and carminative properties of basil help to relieve abdominal pains,
indigestion, and vomiting. It works well on tired muscles, especially in massage oil used
after hard physical work or strenuous exercise, it also eases arthritis and gout.
It is reputed to be one of the best nerve tonics among all essential oils.
JEWELWEED SALVE RECIPE
First make an infused oil using the Jewelweed.
2 ounces of dried herb or 4 ounces fresh herb and 2 cups of any vegetable oil-
(you can use olive oil, almond oil, sesame oil, soy oil).
combine ingredients in a double-boiler on low heat and let the herb "cook" for 1 to 2 hours.
Strain into a sterilized jar. (If your not going to use the oil right away to make salve, then
add 1/4 tsp. Vitamin E oil or Tincture of Benzoin for preservative).
To make the salve:
Gently heat 4 ounces of the infused oil in the top of a double-broiler type pan.
Add approximately 1 Tbsp of beeswax or paraffin. Let melt.
Add 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon Vitamin E oil or Tincture of Benzoin to act as a preservative.
Mix well. Pour or spoon into a jar. Let cool and cap.
This is great stuff! You can purchase dried Jewelweed
Herb from a Health-Food Store or by mail-order.
HERBS FOR EVERY SIGN
Herbs can be mixed and combined to produce a "recipe" that's just right for each of us.
Since the Sun sign you were born under has such an amazing influence on your health and
well-being, using the herbs that correspond with that sign alone can be a tremendous help in
times of stress or illness. Here's a short list of herbs that seem to be tailor-made for each of the
signs, due to their associations with both the planetary ruler and the positive qualities of that sign.
Aries - Mars
Allspice, basil, cayenne, garlic, ginger, mustard, onion, pepper.
It's no secret that Aries is the astrological equivalent of a bullet.
It's a red-hot burst of energy that's capable of overcoming any
obstacle by charging straight for it. The ruler of Aries is Mars, the "red"
planet, the ancient god of war who was known for his equally fiery
temperament. No wonder, then, the herbs that correspond with your sign
are also a bit "hot" to the taste. Use them in cooking to raise your
endorphins, the substance Mars loves best.
Taurus - Venus
Apple, apricot, blackberry, cherry, heather, hibiscus, raspberry, rose.
Taurus is the sign that's fondest of the pleasures that life inside
these bodies can provide. Whether it's a blazing sunset, a symphony by
Mozart, or a delicious meal, you folks are experts at enjoying the
physical delights of the senses. It's no surprise that the herbs you'll
enjoy most are the sweet ones, since your planet, Venus, is the
purveyor of sweetness. Use each of them to satisfy that sweet tooth.
Gemini - Mercury
Clover, eyebright, fennel, lemongrass, lemon verbena, marjoram, parsley.
Your quick-witted, fleet-footed energy just loves variety - in fact, the
expression "variety is the spice of life" was written with you in mind.
Each of these herbs provide a different type of taste, and most can be
combined in a light, aromatic tea you can sip on the run. Use clove or
slippery elm to protect against gossip and to keep your thoughts and
actions grounded.
Cancer - Moon
Aloe, lemon balm, chamomile, mimosa, lavender, lilac.
Nurturing is your business, Cancer, and you distribute your soothing
touch to one and all. There's nothing you like better than a home that
smells good, too, whether it's because there's something wonderful
simmering on the stove, a vase of fresh flowers on the dining room
table, or a warm, fragrant bubble bath waiting for you upstairs. Each
of the herbs listed above are known for their ability to calm, heal, or
bring a wonderful aroma to the environment. Use aloe to soothe burns
and scrapes and chamomile for a wonderful bedtime tea.
Leo - Sun
Chicory, cinnamon, goldenseal, rosemary, St. John's Wort, sandalwood.
Your planet is the Sun, Leo, the source of life and warmth that keeps
us all alive and provides us with the energy we need to keep pursuing our
life's quest. It makes perfect sense, then, that the bright, cheerful
sunflower would be the perfect representation of your equally bright
and happy sign. Herbs like goldenseal and St. John's Wort are tailor-made
for you, too, since their ability to keep the body resistant to illness
and depression are well known. Mix a bit of chicory with your morning
coffee to help remove any obstacles that come up.
Virgo - Mercury
Caraway, dill, eyebright, horehound, lily of the valley, marjoram, savory.
Your quick-thinking meticulous sign likes nothing better than a mental
challenge, Virgo, whether it's organizing a pile of papers at the
office, solving a puzzle, or learning a new skill. The herbs listed
above are all well known for their subtle abilities to strengthen the
mind, and many can be mixed together in teas to give you a boost you
often need at the end of a long day. The lily of the valley seems
perfect for you, too, with its subtle, "clean" scent and delicate flowers.
Libra - Venus
Catnip, passion flower, persimmon, rose, sugar cane, violet.
There's no sign as fond of pleasing others as yours, Libra, whether it's
by saying just the right thing to bring warring factions together, or by
using your polite charm to draw the object of your desires closer. Of
course, catnip is famous for its effects on our feline friends, but its
also traditionally used in conjunction with rose petals to bring loving
relationships that last forever. Since you're ruled by Venus, you're
capable of being every bit as sweet as the sugar cane - but if you need
a bit of help to attract a beloved, use this potent plant (sugar cane)
that's long been used to conjure love - sweetly.
Scorpio - Pluto/Mars
Ginseng, dill, patchouli, pomegranate, saffron, vanilla.
As fond as you are of intensity and intimacy, Scorpio, it's no wonder
the herbs you'll love best are famous for their use in stirring up
passion. Drink ginseng tea (or offer some to your beloved) to induce a
magnetic physical attraction. Wear patchouli to arouse lust and silently
conjure the magic of the Beltane rituals. Present the object of your
desire with a pomegranate, the fruit traditionally associated with
seductive Pluto, your ruling planet.
Sagittarius - Jupiter
Anise, clove, fig, hyssop, mugwort, myrtle, nutmeg, rosemary, sage.
There's no sign that hangs on to youth with more fervency and
determination than yours Sagittarius. To keep that youthful appearance
and disposition going as you travel the world in search of yet another
experience, drink a tea made of anise, rosemary, and Vervain. To aid in
making your dreams more prophetic than they already are, use mugwort.
Burn clove incense to attract the wealth you'll need to pay for your travels.
Capricorn - Saturn
Comfrey, horsetail, mint, poppy, sassafras, woodruff.
You've always been described as a very "focused" sign, Capricorn, intent
on self-sufficiency and material success. The influence of your planet,
Saturn, gives you the ambition and self-discipline to attain those
goals, and to ensure success and prosperity in business matters, too.
Each of the herbs mentioned above are known for their ability to attract
that success, and most can be mixed together in a tea.
Aquarius - Uranus/Saturn
Anise, bittersweet, citron, dandelion, lemon verbena, rosemary, sage.
Your sign is a cerebral one, Aquarius, and your ability to turn "odd" or
eccentric ideas into strokes of genius is well known. Since
communication (and mass communication in particular) is your specialty,
the herbs above are all associated with the air principle, which rules
the intellectual side of life. To increase your already powerful
intuition, use citron, clover, or rosemary. Above all else, listen to
that intuition. It will seldom prove to be wrong.
Pisces - Neptune/Jupiter
Aloe, bay, cotton, eucalyptus, lavender, Norfolk Island pine, rue.
As the most sensitive and psychic of all signs, Pisces, yours is the one
that requires help to ward off the adverse thoughts and intentions of
others. Since you have no boundaries to keep you separate from others,
you also need protection against negative influences. To that end, use
rue, a powerful herb known to ward off ills of every kind. To stay
positive and healthy keep a lavender plant growing either outside or inside your home.
LAVENDER
Lavendula officinale or L. vera Gender-masculine
Planet-mercury Element-Air
Powers-love, protection, sleep, chastity, longevity, purification, happiness, peace.
Magical uses-love spells and sachets.
Place lavender in clothes draws or attach to clothes to attract love.
A piece of paper rubbed with lavender is excellent for writing love notes.
The scent of it often attracts men (the essential oil was once worn by prostitutes).
It also protects from the cruel treatment at the hands of a spouse if worn.
The flowers are burned or smoldered to induce sleep and are scattered around the home to maintain its peace.
It is so powerful that, if when you are depressed, you gaze upon the plant, and all sorrow will depart.
The odor is conducive to long life, smell it often if this is a concern to you.
It is also used for healing, carried to see ghosts, and to protect against the evil eye.
SOME SNAPPY SUPERMARKET SPELL INGREDIENTS
Chocolate is excellent for money. Spinach can help you get a job.
Bitter foods will make you work harder, sweet foods will ease the pressure on a
workaholic (try honey, not junk food).
Apples are sacred to Aphrodite, so cut one in half and give it to your lover to enrapture them.
Get the one you want out of your life out of it by serving them a bowl of turnips.
They'll leave you-you won't have to do a thing.
Ginger tea, or bathing with ginger will relieve stress.
Oat in a sock, popped in the bath, promotes gentleness and soft beauty.
Herbs
ANEMONE: Protects against sickness
ANGELICA: Lengthens life, protects from disease, exorcises evil
BASIL: Protects from evil, aids love
BORAGE: Generates courage, lifts spirits
CARAWAY: Guards against theft, promotes love
CEDAR CHIPS: Attracts money
CINQUEFOIL: Brings love, aids in divination, protects from evil
CLOVER: Brings luck, wealth, prosperity
COMFREY: Aids healing
CORNFLOWER: Promotes good eye-sight
DILL: Protects from evil
FENNEL: Purification
MARJORAM: Ensures happiness in the afterlife
MUGWORT: Alleviates female disorders, shows the future, protects from wild beasts
MYRTLE: Love and peace
PARSLEY: Protects from poison, promotes long life
PLANTAIN: Cleanses and purifies
ROSEMARY: Loyalty, devotion, love, strength
SAGE: Promotes long life
ST. JOHN'S WORT: Exorcisms, dispels evil
SOLOMON'S SEAL: Heals Wounds
SUNFLOWER: To find a thief
THYME: Courage, chivalry
VALERIAN: Restores peace, harmony, togetherness
VERVAIN: Reconciles enemies, protects from harm, ensures fidelity
WILD THYME: Protects against nightmares.
Dracena
NAMES: Dragon's Blood - Dragon Lily
Dracena means female dragon.
MAGIC:
Planet: Mars
For : protection, inner power, love spells, exorcism, male sex magic Woody-stemmed plants
of the tropical eastern hemisphere. They have orange or yellow roots, a crown of leathery
leaves, and bloom with clusters of small white flowers. Propagated by cuttings or stem
sections, they need moist roots and a warm climate. There are many varieties, some of which
yield a red juice which, when thickened, is said to resemble the blood of dragons.
Most varieties can be grown indoors.
Dracena draco - Dragon Tree
MAGIC:
Exudes dragon's blood, a dark red resin that burns with a bright flame.
Large palm-like tree of the Canary Islands that grows to 70 feet tall and 45 feet around.
The trunk and lower branches are bare; a rosette of thick, stiff, rigid, pointed fleshy leaves
grows from the top of the tree. The leaves, with translucent edges that are sometimes outlined
in red, grow to 2 feet long. It blooms with greenish-white flowers that look like clusters of lilies.
The fruit is an orange berry. Dragon's blood seeps from cracks in the trunk of the tree.
Propagated by seed, it dislikes isolation and excessive humidity. Dragon trees live very long;
a tree in Tenerife was reputed to be over 6000 years old. Ancient trees have a slight fragrance.
It can be grown as a houseplant.
MEDICINE: The tree has medicinal applications
USES: Resin is used to color varnishes
Dracena marginata- Madagascar Dragon Tree
Branching, slow-growing, tree-like plant with slender, twisting,
cane-like trunks that grows to 12 feet. It has rosettes of fleshy, deep olive
green leaves that are edged in red.
Dracena ombet
NAMES: Arabic: Om Beit (Mother of the House)
Small tree-like plant with sword-shaped leaves. The stem and branches
are forked. It blooms with pannicles of delicate pink flowers. The fruit
is a round berry.
Dracena goldieana
NAMES: Dragon Queen - Queen of Dracenas
African plant with thin canes that grows to 10 feet. It has a rosette of glossy, deep green, leathery
leaves with pale green markings. Dragon Queen blooms at night with fragrant white flowers.
It needs porous soil and a humid climate.
Dracena fragrans - Dragon Lily
Rare plant that grows in the mountains near Sudan. It is often cultivated as a houseplant.
Dracena goddsefiana - Gold Dust Dracena
Shrubby plant with whorls of thin, leathery, deep green leaves that are
glossy and have yellow spots. It blooms with greenish-yellow flowers. The fruit is a red berry.
ROSE DEW
Dew should be collected from organically grown roses.
Non organic roses are frequently sprayed with highly toxic chemicals, some will cause allergic
reactions or worse! They aren't safe even if you have never seen them being sprayed either,
systemic poisons are injected or placed around the roots of the plant and will result in the same
exposure to these toxins. Even organically grown roses are occasionally sprayed with sulfur and
other solutions to keep fungi at bay, so this will affect the working. Sulfur will actually oppose this
working with its repelling tendencies. Ideally, the roses will be your own, or from a garden you are
familiar with so you know that it has been at least two weeks since any sprays have been applied.
To collect the dew, have a very clean, well wrung out, natural sea sponge or
color-free cellulose sponge. Armed with your sponge and a small bottle, go to the roses late at
night or very early in the morning, during the waxing moon is best. Dab the dew from the flowers
and some leaves and occasionally wring the sponge out into the bottle.
This shouldn't take long, maybe 15 minutes to collect what is needed, (depending on the
humidity in your area) but get extra as long as you are there for future use.
Separate the excess from what you will be using for any immediate workings.
To the bottle that you will be putting up for storage add:
3 drops of ethyl alcohol, brandy, or rubbing alcohol or 9 drops of commercial vanilla extract
and a small pinch of sea salt.
This will keep it fresh for several months, and refrigerate as well.
Exposure to light will ruin the solution, as with many extracts and infusions, so keep it in the dark
or in an amber or cobalt glass vial. If you cannot collect Rose Dew in this manner, substitute
rose water in your spells. Rose water can be readily purchased from most grocers, drug stores
or Mediterranean food markets.
SOME HERBS AND THEIR USES FOR INCREASING LUCK
ALLSPICE is burned as an incense to attract money or luck, and is also
added to such mixtures.
ALOE is hung over houses and doors in Africa to bring good luck.
BAMBOO placed over the door is lucky, since its wood never changes color.
BANYAN TREES bring good luck when sat under or looked at.
BLUEBELL brings luck when it is picked up and the following words recited:
Bluebell, bluebell, bring me some luck before tomorrow night. Slip it into
your shoe to seal the spell.
CALAMUS brings good luck to the gardener when grown.
COTTON, placed in a sugar bowl will attract good luck, as it will if cotton is thrown over
the right shoulder at dawn. In the latter case, the good luck will come before the day is over.
DAFFODIL plucked and worn next to the heart will bring good luck.
FERN brings good luck to the person who breaks the first fern frond of Spring.
HOLLY is carried to promote good luck, especially by men, since the holly
is a 'male' plant. (Ivy is the corresponding plant for women.) It is also hung around the
house for good luck at Yule.
IRISH MOSS is carried or placed beneath rugs to increase luck and to ensure a steady
flow of money into the house or pockets of the person.
JOB'S TEARS: Three seeds are carried for good luck.
KAVA-KAVA tea is drunk to offer protection against evil and to invite in good luck in Polynesia.
LUCKY HAND (hand of Power, Hand Root, Helping Hand, Salap) is the root of an orchid plant
and is one of the most famous New Orleans magical botanicals. It has long been placed in
sachets and conjure bags for luck and general success...
MOSS, taken from a gravestone and carried in your pocket, is a good ensure of luck, especially financial luck.
OLIVE leaves, worn, bring luck.
ORANGE peel is added to prosperity powders, incenses and mixtures, and the Chinese
have long considered oranges symbols of luck and good fortune.
PERSIMMON: If you wish to have good luck, bury green persimmons.
PINEAPPLE, dried, is placed in bags and added to baths to draw good luck to the bather.
STRAW is lucky, hence it is often carried in small bags. For a home luck talisman, take a
used horseshoe and some straw, sew up into a small bag, and place it above or below the bed.
VETIVERT is carried to attract luck.
VIOLET flowers are carried to bring changes in luck and fortune.
WOOD ROSE is carried to attract good luck and fortune.
Also place some in the home to ensure it is lucky as well.
ABOUT THE COMMON HERBS
Aloe (Aloe vera) : Called the "Burn Plant" because of its effect on burns of all
types. It is the best herb for sunburn. Aloe is also effective in spells for
preventing accidents involving fire or heat. A charged Aloe growing in your
kitchen affords not only it's healing properties, but also protection against
kitchen burns and fires.
Anise (Pimpinella anisum) : A daily cup of anise tea will preserve youth. Anise
burned on charcoal before bed will promote prophetic dreams.
Balm (Melissa officinalis) : Bathe in a bath of Balm to attract love. Add to
incense and sachets for love and to promote healing.
Barley (Hordeum spp.) : Sprinkle Barley around the perimeter of your yard [or
on windowsills] to ward off evil. A few grains under your doormat will offer
protection and repell negativity and evil that would enter.
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) : Basil oil rubbed on a green candle before burning
will attract wealth. The incense smoke is beneficial for the same, plus
banishing, exorcising and for protection. It also makes one hell of a spagetti sauce!
Blackberry (Rubus villosus) : To work your way through a bramble of
blackberries is damn near impossible - but it is rumored to dispell, and protect
from, all disease and evil.
Caraway (Carum carvi) : Use in your wedding cake, and throw caraway seeds
after the ceremony. It promotes lust and fidelity. Of course - it doesn't have to
be your wedding night/cake.
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) : Well, we've seen it's effect on our feline friends...
giving your cat this herb can help create the psychic link needed for a familiar.
Add catnip to your sachets to attract love [but keep it away from your cat].
Cayenne (Capsicum annuum) : Eat a meal hot with cayenne before a night of
Bacchanalian celebrating - it will curb drunkeness.
Chamomile (Anthemsis nobilis) : Ancient Egytians assiciated Chamomile with
Ra for its healing powers. Even other plants in your herb garden will benefit
from this herb, as it repells insects & promotes healing. Chamomile also has the
properties of attracting wealth.
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