Infusion: This is made like a tea. Cover 30 g of dried herb, or 60 g fresh, with 500 ml of boiling water. Cover and leave to steep.
Decoction: Instead of leaving the herb to steep, simmer it gently in the water.
Poultice: Bruise the plant matter and pour just enough boiling water over to wet it. Apply the botanical to the affected part and cover with a cloth or piece of gauze which has been wrung out in hot water. When the cloth cools, replace it with a hot one.
Please see your health care practitioner before making any changes to your method of health care.
Acacia, Gum / Alfalfa / Allspice / Aloe Vera / Angelica / Anise / Apple / Arnica / Ash / Balm / Balm of Gilead / Basil / Bay Laurel / Benzoin / Betony / Blackberry / Borage / Burdock / Calendula / Chamomile / Caraway / Carnation / Carrot / Catnip / Cayenne / Celandine / Celery / Cinnamon / Cinquefoil / Clary Sage / Clove / Clover / Coltsfoot / Comfrey / Coriander / Cowslip / Cypress / Daisy / Dandelion / Dill / Dragon's Blood / Echinacea / Elecampane / Elder / Eucalyptus / Eyebright / Fennel / Fern / Feverfew / Frankincense / Garlic / Ginger / Golden Seal / Hawthorn / Hazel / Henbane / High John The Conqueror / Holly / Honeysuckle / Hops / Hyssop / Ivy
Acacia, gum
(Acacia senegal): also called gum arabic.
Dissolved in water to make a mucilage which is edible and soothes irritated
mucous membranes, so is used in cases of coughs, sore throats and catarrh.Back to the herb list
Alfalfa
(Medicago sativa): can be drunk as a tea to improve
the appetite. Is supposed to aid in cure of peptic ulcers. Considered a
diuretic - will rid the body of retained water.Back to the herb list
Allspice
(Pimenta officinalis): the dried berry is supposed
to have anaesthetic effects when used in baths. Allspice water is helpful
in cases of flatulence.Back to the herb list
Aloe Vera
(Aloe vera): the juice from the fresh leaves
is an ideal soother for sunburn and other minor burns, insect bites, and
minor irritations. Also said to draw impurities from a wound and hence
speed its healing. A tea made from the dried juice can be used as a wound
wash.Back to the herb list
Angelica
(Angelica archangelica): Drink the tea to stimulate
the appetite, relieve flatulence, and as a diuretic to stimulate kidney
action. Also a general tonic for weakness and nervous headache. The tea
is supposed to bring on menstruation and dispel afterbirth. The powder
of the root is useful to prevent infection when fasting (3/8 tsp at a time)
and a tea or decoction of the root can be useful for stomach and intestinal
problems, including ulcers and nervous vomiting. In large doses can have
adverse effects on heart, blood pressure and respiration, so use with caution.
Externally, a decoction of the root can be used for scabies or itching
skin.Elements of Sun and Fire. The root carried in a blue cloth bag is a protective talisman. Was considered to be under the guard of angels and therefore a good preventative charm against the plague. Put the whole root in a blue or white cloth bag and hang in the window as a protection against evil.
Back to the herb list
Anise
(Pimpinella anisum): Internally, relieves colic,
stomach cramps, nausea and flatulence. Promotes digestion and improves
the appetite. Is said to aid milk production in nursing mothers. Externally,
makes a soothing eye compress. Can also be used for coughs. A few seeds
in a glass of hot milk before bed is said to be beneficial for insomniacs
and to promote sleep.Elements of Jupiter and Air. Used for protection. A pillow stuffed with anise seeds is reputed to keep away nightmares.
Back to the herb list
Apple
(Pyrus malus): Elements of Venus and Water.
Used in love spells for hundreds of years. Cider can be used in place of
blood or wine where called for in ancient spells and rites. The wood is
made into wands used for love spells and rituals. In Cornwall, a large
apple was given to each member of the household to be eaten at Samhain
(Halloween) for good luck.Back to the herb list
Arnica
(Arnica montana): For external use only as it can
be an internal irritant. A salve or very dilute tincture of arnica helps
to promote healing of bruises and bumps. Tincture must be very dilute (1
or 2 tablespoons to a cup of water) as neat it can cause inflammation.
Lotion can be made by heating equal quantities of arnica flowers and olive
oil over a low heat for several hours, then straining through several layers
fine cheesecloth.Back to the herb list
Ash
(Fraxinus excelsior): Elements of Sun and Water.
A protective tree used to make brooms and healing wands. Ash leaves beneath
the pillow are reputed to induce psychic dreams. In England, is believed
to be a dangerous tree to shelter under during storms, as it draws lightning.
The winged seeds of the ash, ash-keys, can be carried to prevent overlooking
or ill-wishing. Ash leaves are considered lucky, but an even ash leaf (one
with an equal number of divisions on either side) is especially lucky.
An even ash leaf should be gathered with the following rhyme: 'Even ash,
I do thee pluck/ Hoping thus to meet good luck/ If no good luck I get from
thee/ I shall wish thee on the tree'. Carried in a buttonhole or in the
pocket, the leaf is supposed to bring good fortune.Back to the herb list
Balm
(Melissa officinalis): Should be used fresh rather
than dried. The tea is useful for all kinds of nervous complaints, hysteria
and being over-emotional. Also induces mild perspiration and therefore
relief to the feverish. Also helps relieve sleepiness of colds and flu.
Will attract bees to the garden where it's grown. In earlier times was
drunk to ease melancholy, comfort the heart and make the drinker merry.
The crushed leaves or the juice thereof can be applied to wounds, sores
and insect bites.Back to the herb list
Balm of Gilead
(Populus candicans): Element of Saturn. The buds can be carried to mend a broken heart. Can be added to
love and protection charms.Back to the herb list
Basil
(Ocimum minimum or O. basilium): Internally can
be used for headache, stomach cramps and general pain, and nausea. Externally,
can be used as an antiseptic.Element of Mars and Fire. Used in wealth and prosperity rituals. Carrying basil in your pockets is supposed to attract money into them. A wife can supposedly stop her husband being unfaithful by dusting her upper body with powdered basil.
Back to the herb list
Bay Laurel
(Lauris noblis): Elements of Sun and Fire. The leaves can be burned or chewed to induce visions. Worn as an
amulet to ward off negativity and evil. Leaves under the pillow are supposed
to induce prophetic dreams. Can be used in protection and purification
rituals. Growing near a house, it was supposed to protect those within
from infection and storms. Z. Budapest gives a spell using bay laurel for
use in games of chance: take three laurel leaves and three pieces of parchment.
Write on each paper the names of the Triple Goddess: Diana, Isis, Hecate.
Keep the leaves and parchment in a red flannel bag in your pocket, and
before starting your game of chance say: 'Isis of the Thousand Breasts,
make my chance the best one yet'.Back to the herb list
Benzoin
(Styrax benzoin): Elements of Sun and Air.
Used in purification incenses. A few drops of tincture of benzoin helps
to preserve oils and preparations.Back to the herb list
Betony
(Stachys officinalis): Elements on Jupiter and Fire. Add to incenses of protection and purification. Sleep on a pillow
stuffed with betony to prevent nightmares.Back to the herb list
Blackberry
(Rubus villosus): A tea or decoction of the
leaves and roots has been used for centuries as a home remedy for diarrhoea.
Also drunk for colds, flu, sore throat, and anaemia. Leaves can be chewed
for bleeding gums. Back to the herb list
Borage
(Borago officinalis): Good for reducing fever and
for convalescing from illness. The tea is drunk for feverish colds, to
increase milk for nursing mothers, and to treat minor lung problems.Back to the herb list
Burdock
(Arctium lappa): A decoction of the leaves can
be used to cool and heal sores, acne, swellings and irritated skin. A decoction
of the root and seeds is used as a blood purifier.Back to the herb list
Calendula
(Calendula officinalis): Also known as pot marigold.
A tea of the flowers can be used for gastro-intestinal problems such as
ulcers, cramps and diarrhoea. Also taken internally for fevers and to reduce
vomiting. A salve or dilute tincture made from the flowers is also useful
for bruises, bumps, sprains, sore muscles and boils. The fresh juice can
be applied directly to get rid of boils, warts and pimples. Press a fresh
bruised leaf on a pimple several times a day to make it go down.Back to the herb list
Chamomile
(German - Matricaria chamomilla, Roman - Anthemis
noblis): If drunk before bed, the tea will aid sleep. Used to soothe
nightmares and nervousness, for hysterical conditions, and to quiet fever
and restlessness in children. Also drunk for colic, stomach ache, diarrhoea,
heartburn. Aids digestion. Can be used as a gentle healing wash for sores
and wounds. The oil, diluted in a carrier oil, or a salve made from simmering
the flowers in oil, can also be used as a rub for rheumatism, painful joints
and strained muscles. Externally camomile makes a soothing bath additive
and can be used in a footbath to relieve sweaty feet.Elements of Sun and Water. Use in prosperity charms and rituals. Induces sleep. The tea brings peace and tranquility for those times when you need to do a ritual but are seething with anger or hurt. If you wash your face and hair with chamomile, it will attract a lover.
Back to the herb list
Caraway
(Carum carvi): The oil can be used as an anaesthetic
for toothache - soak a tiny bit of cotton in the oil and place in the cavity.
Can also be used for flatulent colic and to settle the stomach after taking
medication.Elements of Mercury and Air. Used in love charms to attract a lover.
Back to the herb list
Carnation
(Dianthus caryophyllus): Elements of Sun and Fire. Once worn by witches to prevent capture and hanging. Produces
added energy in ritual when used in incense.Back to the herb list
Carrot
(Daucus carota): Carrot juice can be drunk to ease
heartburn and stomach acidity. A soup made of carrots is supposed to be
an effective and easily digested remedy for diarrhoea.Back to the herb list
Catnip
(Nepeta cataria): The tea is used to treat colds,
chills and fever, as it produces mild perspiration and induces sleep without
increasing the fever. Also soothes nervous headaches, and will promote
sleep. Can be taken for stomach pain and flatulence. Believed to bring
on menstrual flow. Good to treat nervousness and restlessness, especially
in children, and can also be used for colic.Elements of Venus and Water. Creates a psychic bond between cat and 'owner'. Used in love charms and incenses.
Back to the herb list
Cayenne
(Capsicum minimum): Can be used to relieve colds
and coughs, and is a local stimulant. Mrs Grieve recommends it in cases
of alcohol addiction, as it reduces the dilated blood vessels.Back to the herb list
Celandine
(Chelidonium majus): Elements of Sun and Fire. Helps the wearer escape unfair imprisonment and entrapment. If worn,
cures depression.Back to the herb list
Celery
(Apum graeolens): Helpful in the prevention and
treatment of arthritis, especially when cooked in milk. Also useful for
alcoholism, as celery sodium is a neutraliser in the body. Can be eaten
as a nervine and a diuretic. Eaten as a salad vegetable or drunk as a tea,
is supposed to help clear up acne and other skin conditions.Back to the herb list
Cinnamon
(Cinnamomum zeylanicum): In tea form, makes an
excellent digestive aid. Will check nausea, diarrhoea and vomiting. Is
a mild stimulant. Externally, can be used as a skin astringent and antiseptic.
Elements of Sun and Fire. Use in incenses for healing, clairvoyance, high spiritual vibrations. Reputed to be a male aphrodisiac. Use in prosperity charms.
Back to the herb list
Cinquefoil
(Potentilla canadensis): Elements of Jupiter and Earth. Hang on house entrances as protection. Use in spells and
charms for prosperity, purification and protection.Back to the herb list
Clary Sage
(Salvia sclarea): Carminative, can be used
to improve appetite and for cases of digestive disorder. Also used in cases
of hysteria..Back to the herb list
Clove
(Eugenia caryophyllus or Caryophyllus aromaticus):
The oil can be inserted in a tooth cavity as a local anaesthetic and is
purported to stop vomiting if a few drops are taken in water. The oil is
also antiseptic. In tea form, aids digestion and relieves nausea and flatulence,
is stimulating and carminative, and makes a good expectorant for colds.
Elements of Sun and Fire. Worn to drive away negativity and stop gossip. Cloves strung on a red thread can be worn as a protective charm.
Back to the herb list
Clover
(Trifolium spp.): Element of Mercury.
Associated with the Triple Goddess. Used in rituals for beauty and youth.
Four-leaved clovers are carried to see fairies, heal illness, avoid military
service, avoid madness, and as a general good-luck charm. To dream of clover
is considered very fortunate, especially for young people.Back to the herb list
Coltsfoot
Tussilago farfara): Long used for diseases
and infections of the lungs. Used in many herbal cough mixtures, as it
can both soothe a dry, irritated cough and encourage the expulsion of phlegm
trapped in the lungs. Also reputed to help expel dust, tar and other pollutants
from the lungs, and a weekly dose of coltsfoot tea can be beneficial to
smokers, people with dust allergies or anyone who works in a polluted environment.
the leaves and flowers have been used in herbal tobacco.Back to the herb list
Comfrey
(Symphytum officinale): A demulcent and astringent
with great healing qualities. Contains allantoin, a cell proliferant which
helps wounds heal and bones knit back together. As a poultice it may be
applied to wounds, sores, cuts, bites and burns to allay infection and
aid healing. May also be eaten, steamed, as a vegetable.Elements of Saturn and Earth. A herb of Hecate, used in rituals to honour the Goddess in her Crone aspect.
Back to the herb list
Coriander
(Coriandrum sativum): Elements of Mars and Fire. Used in love spells and charms. An old coriander spell is to
take seven grains of coriander and grind them in a mortar, saying 'Warm
seed, warm heart, let them never be apart' three times. Drop the seeds
into wine and share with your lover.Back to the herb list
Cowslip
(Primula veris): Element of Venus.
Cattle were once hung with cowslips to encourage healthy milk production.
Cowslip flowers were believed to bring luck in love to the wearer. In Suffolk,
milkmaids would wash their faces in milk in which cowslip petals had been
infused on Beltane, believing that it would make their faces glow and attract
their beloved during the Beltane celebrations. Were traditionally woven
into funeral wreaths to be laid on the deceased one's grave at the full
moon, for thirteen moons after his or her death. Posies of cowslips, placed
under the pillow, were said to allow contact with the dead in dreams.Back to the herb list
Cypress
(Cupressus spp.): Elements of Saturn and Earth. Connected with death in all its aspects. Cypress smoke can be used
to consecrate ritual objects. Back to the herb list
Daisy
(Bellis perennis): Daisy leaf tea is drunk as a
spring tonic, an expectorant, and to aid circulation. The leaves may be
moistened, crushed and used as a poultice for bruises. Daisy flower infusion
with a little honey added is reputed to whiten and clear the skin.
Decorate the house with daisies on Midsummer's Eve to bring happiness to the home and to win the favor of the faeries. Daisies should also be worn on the person at Midsummer for luck and blessings.
Back to the herb list
Dandelion
(Taraxacum officinale): A diuretic which can
aid kidney infections, constipation and jaundice. Also drunk to increase
the appetite. The leaves are good in a green salad. The juice of the stem,
applied several times a day and let dry, will remove warts and corns.
Element of Jupiter. A herb of Hecate, used in Samhain rituals. It is said that if you rub yourself all over with dandelion you will be welcome everywhere and all your wishes will be granted.
Back to the herb list
Dill
(Anethum gravolens): The seeds are used to make dill
water, a soporific and carminative syrup used to treat colic in babies.
Element of Mercury and Fire. Used in love charms. Hang in childrens' rooms to protect them.
To make dill water: Crush 25 grams dill seed, and soak in 500 ml hot water for 3 - 4 hours. Strain, sweeten with 1 tablespoon honey. Give a small amount to be sipped.
Back to the herb list
Dragon's Blood
(Daemonorops draco
or Dracaena draco): Element of Mars and Fire. Used in love and protection spells. A piece
under the bed is reputed to cure impotency. Place in drawers and cupboards
you don't want people looking in, with the incantation: 'Dragon's blood,
watch and ward, as the dragon guards its horde'. Carry a piece with you
for good luck. Dissolve a little in the bath for a strong purification
bath.Back to the herb list
Echinacea
(Echinacea angustifolia): An herb introduced to the settlers by Native Americans has proven to be a potent immune booster, strengthening the body's ability to ward off invading infections. This herb has significant immuno-enhancing activity. It helps the body defend against viruses and has been used to help restore normal immune function in patients receiving chemotherapy. It's a probiotic; unlike antibiotics, Echinacea stimulates our immune system rather than destroying the invading organisms. There are hundreds of research papers attesting to its immune-enhancing properties. Additionally, several European studies have shown that Echinacea appears to lessen the severity of colds and flu, and helps speed recovery.
The root is used as a blood purifier. Aids to build up immune system and increase body's resistance
to infection. Useful for all diseases such as boils which are due to impurities
in the system. Also good for fevers in tea form.Back to the herb list
Elecampane
(Inula helenium): Elements of Mercury and Earth. Was said to have sprung from the tears of Helen which fell to the
ground when Paris abducted her. Called elf dock in Denmark. Once used to
raise and sustain the spirits. As an incense, can be burned as an aid to
meditation.Back to the herb list
Elder
(Sambucus canadensis): Elements of Venus and Air. Branches can be used for wands and staves. Stand beneath the elder
to be protected from lightning; sleeping under the elder tree will bring
drugged and dangerous dreams of faeryland, from which one might awaken
either mad, or not at all. In the Middle Ages it was considered unlucky
to burn elder, or to bring it into the house. It was only considered safe
to cut an elder tree if one had first asked permission; the tree dryad
would grant consent by keeping silence. Elder leaves gathered at Beltane
Eve and attached to the door are said to keep away evil.Back to the herb list
Eucalyptus
(Eucalyptus spp.): Leaves and oil are a powerful
antiseptic and stimulant for fevers and colds. Used in a poultice, or as
diluted oil, on wounds as an antiseptic. A useful expectorant for bronchitis.
The oil can be used in a vapouriser to inhale for chest colds and bronchitis.
Elements of the Moon and Air. Used in healing rituals and charms of all kinds. Surround blue candles with the leaves and burn for healing vibrations. Hang green pods around the neck to cure colds and sore throats.
Back to the herb list
Eyebright
(Euphrasia officinalis): elements of Sun and Air. Anoint eyelids with the infusion daily to induce clairvoyant
visions.
Back to the herb list
Fennel
(Foeniculum vulgare): A digestive aid, relieves
flatulence. The tea is a safe, effective diuretic. Sometimes employed as
an appetite suppressant.Elements of Mercury and Earth. Connected with mother's milk and breastfeeding; traditionally brought for new mothers and hung near the cradle to keep away flies.
Back to the herb list
Fern
: Elements of Saturn and Earth. Extremely powerful
protectants; grow in the house and include in vases of cut flowers. Are
supposed to protect any house that contains them from damage by storms.Back to the herb list
Feverfew
(Pyrethrum parthenium): A tea of the flowers
is useful to relieve nervous headaches, migraine and hysterical conditions.Back to the herb list
Frankincense
(Boswellia carterii):Sun, Fire. A very powerful scent which aids meditation and induces a spiritual
fram of mind. Burn as a general protective incense.Back to the herb list
Garlic
(Allium sativum): Used for thousands of years to
increase immunity, ease colds, lower tension, improve circulation, prevent
intestinal worms and increase the healthy bacteria in the system. If nothing
else is available the juice of garlic, heavily diluted, will disinfect
wounds (but it stings!) A stimulant and carminative, and natural antibiotic.
Elements of Mars and Fire. Extremely protective herb. Carry the bulb with you on trips over water to prevent drowning. Hang in the home to protect. Also used in exorcisms.
Back to the herb list
Ginger
(Zingiber officinale): Hot ginger tea can be sipped
for the relief of colds and flu, and can also be used for upset stomach,
menstrual cramps, and diarrhoea.Back to the herb list
Golden Seal
(Hydrastis canadensis): Non-toxic, non-irritating
antiseptic, both internal and external. Used to treat alcoholism, esp.
in conjunction with cayenne. Can be used as a wash for sore mouths and
skin irritations such as eczema. Used as a tonic for disorders of the digestive
system.Back to the herb list
Hawthorn
(Crataegus oxyacantha): Elements of Mars and Fire. Used in protection sachets. In ancient Greece and Rome, was
associated with happiness in marriage and carried by brides; the Romans
put hawthorn leaves into babies' cradles to protect them against evil.
Sitting under a hawthorn tree on Beltane, Midsummer's Day or Samhain supposedly
puts one in danger of being abducted by fairies. It is considered ill-omened
to fell a hawthorn. Burn hawthorn berries as an incense when you feel the
need for energy and dynamism in your life, and meditate on the areas of
life that need changing.ritations such as eczema. Used as a tonic for disorders of the digestive
system.Back to the herb list
Hazel
(Corylus spp.): Elements of Sun and Air.
Good wood for all-purpose wands. Forked branches can be used as divining
wands. Tie two hazel twigs together with red or gold thread to make a solar
cross as a good-luck charm.Back to the herb list
Henbane
(Hyoscyamus niger): Elements of Saturn and Water.
Poisonous! Carried to attract the love of a woman.Back to the herb list
High John The Conqueror Root
(Impomoea purga): Elements of Saturn and Earth. Add to candle anointing oils, charms and sachets
to increase their potency.Back to the herb list
Holly
(Ilex aquifolium): Elements of Mars and Fire.
If planted around the house acts as good protection. Leaves and berries
can be carried to heighten masculinity.Back to the herb list
Honeysuckle
(Lonicera caprifolium):
Elements of Jupiter and Earth. Use in prosperity spells and charms. Back to the herb list
Hops
(Humulus lupulus): Elements of Mars and Water.
Used in healing incenses and charms. Hops in a pillow will induce sleep.
It is unwise to use hops if depressed, since they are believed to engender
melancholy.Back to the herb list
Hyssop
(Hyssopus officinalis): In tea form, used as an
expectorant for colds and catarrh. Said to expel intestinal worms. The
fresh leaves, or a decoction of them, can be applied to wounds to cure
infection and promote healing.Elements of Jupiter and Fire. Use in purification baths and protection spells. Was a common strewing herb during the Middle Ages, and used in the consecration of Westminster Abbey. Associated with serpents and dragons, and can be burnt as incense or thrown on the fire to tap into dragon energy.
Back to the herb list
Ivy
(Hedera spp.): Elements of Saturn and Water.
Guards and protects the houses it grows over. Often given to newlyweds,
in conjunction with holly, as good-luck charm.Back to the herb list