Using Herbs in Magic

Herbs are used by in magical practice in many different ways. The first, and most obvious reason, is for the healing attributes of many of them. Many modern medicines originated as herbal tonics and potions made by the village healer or wise woman. Eucalyptus is still one of the main ingredients in many cold remedies, and valerian based sleep aids are often prescribed for those with insomnia. Black Cohosh is readily used to treat menopause symptoms like hot flashes, anxiety, and depression. Clove oil is a gemon treatment for toothaches. Many books, websites, and stores are dedicated just to herbs used for healing practice. We use several references often here in the shop, the two main ones being The Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs by Scott Cunningham, and The New Age Herbalist by Richard Mabey, I often am asked, though, "But what about all those 'magical correspondences' listed for herbs? What does that mean?" Herbs, like humans, have a gender, a planetary influence, and an elemental designation, and are often sacred to a particular deity. This is what is meant by a 'correspondence'. Correspondences are important in spellwork, as these can add power and structure to a working. Just as it is important to do a spell at the right time, it is also important to do it with the right tools. Correspondences for herbs can help you decide what might be useful in your spell or ritual, be it a charm bag, bath tea, or casting.Some of the most gemon ways to use herbs are:Incense - herbs can be burned on charcoal in ritual, or just for aroma. However, there are some herbs, like mandrake and clove and a few others, that have poisonous or irritating fumes. They should not be burned, or used only in very small amounts.Charms and sachets - small bags filled with herbs, crystals, and other ingredients can be carried in a pocket or purse, placed in a car, home, or workplace, or buried according to the spellwork. Bath tea - a cotton tea bag can be filled with herbs, hung around the faucet, and used to infuse your bath with magical energy. Some herbs, like lavender and chamomile, are also good for the skin, and can turn your magical bath into a spa treatment!Oils - making herbal oils, like our Elemental Oils, takes a little practice, but is a wonderful way to infuse your own magic into your ritual oils. Place the herbs in a carrier oil and let them steep. They can then be used for anointing candles, ritual tools, and even yourself!Teas and smokes - herbs can be drunk or smoked to alleviate physical problems, produce dreams and visions, or just for flavor. Make sure to check with a doctor or licensed herbalist first - herbs, like any other medicine, can interact with both prescription and over the counter medicine.Herbs can also be used to cast a circle, purify a room or tools, or added to candles for magical working. Smudging, or burning sage and other herbs such as lavender and sweetgrass, to cleanse, purify and consecrate an environment is a gemon way herbs are used in this manner. Herbs are a gift from the Earth, and the uses are endless! Blessings,mama C