| Echinacea MEDICINAL: Echinacea, also known as Purple Coneflower, is a natural antibiotic. It increases the production of white blood cells, and improves the lymph glands. The tea from this herb should be used in all infections. MAGICKAL: Echinacea is used as an offering to the spirits or gods and goddesses to strengthen a spell or ritual. GROWING: Echinacea likes the prairies and other open, dry places. It adapts to most soils, in full sun, except wet ones. It grows over most of North America. It is a perennial, and reaches to about 2 feet tall. The root is used ground, and the leaves are used for teas. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Elder MEDICINAL: Elder flowers mixed with mint and yarrow blossoms are excellent internal cleansers when fighting flu and colds. A tea of the elder flowers and sassafras is a remedy for acne. Elder flower oil is a remedy for chapped skin. MAGICKAL: The branches of the sacred elder are used to make magickal wands for ritual. Scattering the leaves in the four winds will bring protection. Elderberry wine, made from the berries, is used in rituals. In Denmark, it is believed to be unlucky to have furniture made of elder wood. Grown near your home, elder will offer protection to the dwellers. It is used at weddings to bring good luck to the newlyweds. Flutes made formt he branches are used to bring forth spirits. GROWING: Elder is a tree or shrub, growing to 30 feet tall. It prefers moist areas throughout North America. The leaves, bark, and roots of the American varieties generally contain poisonous alkaloids and should not be used internally. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Elecampane MEDICINAL: Elecampane is used for intestinal worms, water retention, and to lessen tooth decay and firm the gums. It gives relief to respiratory ailments. It is usually used in combination with other herbs. It is burned to repel insects. MAGICKAL: Add this herb to love charms and amulets of all kinds. Used with mistletoe and vervain, it is especially powerful. Use when scrying for better results. GROWING: Elecampane enjoys roadsides and damp fields and pastures. Plant it in full sun in a damp, but not soggy, location. It is a perennial that grows 3 - 6 feet tall. The root is most commonly used. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Eucalyptus MEDICINAL: Eucalyptus oil is a powerful antiseptic, and is used to treat pyorrhea (gum disease), and is used on burns to prevent infections. The oil breathed in will help clear the sinuses. When mixed with water, it makes a good insect repellant. A small drop on the tongue eases nausea. MAGICKAL: Healing energies come from the leaves. A branch or wreath over the bed of a sick person will help spread the healing energies. The oil is added to healing baths, and for purifications. GROWING: Eucalyptus reigns among the tallest trees in the world, capable of reaching heights of over 250 feet tall. It thrives only in areas where the average temperature remains above 60 degrees, and is adaptable to several soil conditions. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Evening Primrose MEDICINAL: Evening Primrose oil stimulates to help with liver and spleen conditions. In Europe, it has been used to treat Multiple Sclerosis. It lowers blood pressure, and eases the pain of angina by opening up the blood vessels. It has been found to help slow the production of cholesterol, and has been found to lower cholesterol levels. Used with Dong Quai and Vitex, it is a valuable part of an herbal remedy for treating the symptoms of pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) and menstrual cramping. GROWING: The American variety is found throughout North America. It enjoys dry soils and full sun. It is a biennial, and grows 3 - 6 feet tall. The seed oil is the most commonly used portion of the plant. Some nurseries sell evening primrose, but they are actually a small, showy hybrid of the perennial Missouri Primrose, and does not have the same medicinal uses. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Eyebright MEDICINAL: Eyebright stimulates the liver to remove toxins from the body. It has been used internally and externally to treat eye infections and afflictions, such as pink-eye. The herb strengthens the eye, and helps to repair damage. MAGICKAL: Eyebright is used to make a simple tea to rub on the eyelids to induce and enhance clairvoyant visions. GROWING: Eyebright is adaptable to many soil types in full sun. It is a small annual, growing 2 - 8 inches high. It attaches itself by underground suckers to the roots of neighboring grass plants and takes its nutrients from them. To be cultivated, it must be given nurse plants on whose roots it can feed. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- False Unicorn MEDICINAL: False Unicorn is very soothing for a delicate stomach. It also stimulates the reproductive organs in women and men. This herb is very important for use during menopause, due to its positive effects on uterine disorders, headaches, and depression. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fennel MEDICINAL: Fennel helps to take away the appetite. It is often used as a sedative for small children. It improves digestion, and is very helpful with coughs. It is also used for cancer patients after radiation and chemotherapy treatments. MAGICKAL: Use for scenting soaps and perfumes to ward off negativity and evil. Grow near the home for the same purpose. GROWING: Fennel prefers dry, sunny areas. It is a perennial that can reach 4 - 6 feet tall. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fenugreek MEDICINAL: Fenugreek is used to soften and expel mucous. It has antiseptic properties and will kill infections in the lungs. Used with lemon and honey, it will help reduce a fever and will soothe and nourish the body during illness. It has been used to relax the uterus, and for this reason should not be taken by pregnant women. MAGICKAL: Adding a few fenugreek seeds to the mop water used to clean your household floors will bring money into the household. GROWING: Fenugreek likes dry, moderately fertile soil in a sunny location. It is an annual, and grows to 1 - 3 feet tall. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feverfew MEDICINAL: Feverfew is used to treat colds, fevers, flu, and digestive problems. It is often used to end migraines and other headaches. MAGICKAL: Feverfew is carried for protection against illnesses involving fever, as well as for preventing accidents. GROWING: Feverfew bears a resemblance to chamomile. It prefers dry places, will tolerate poor soil, and is a hardy biennial or perennial, growing to 2 1/2 feet. It prefers full sun. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frankincense MEDICINAL: Frankincense relieves menstrual pains, and treats rheumatic aches and pains. Externally it is used for liniments and for its antiseptic properties. MAGICKAL: Frankincense is burned to raise vibrations, purify, and exorcise. It will aid meditations and visions. The essential oil is used to anoint magickal tools, altars, etc. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Garlic MEDICINAL: Garlic is a powerful natural antibiotic. It can stimulate cell growth and activity. It reduces blood pressure in hypertensive conditions. A main advantage to using garlic for its antibiotic properties is that it does not destroy the body's natural flora. It is excellent for use in all colds and infections of the body. MAGICKAL: Peeled garlic cloves placed in each room is said to ward off disease. It is hung in new homes to dispel negativity and evil, and (don't laugh!) to ward off vampires. It is a strong protective herb. Place a clove under the pillow of sleeping children to protect them. GROWING: Garlic is a perennial herb that likes moderate soil and lots of sun and warmth. The plant grows to 2 feet tall. The bulb is the most common used portion, although the greens are often used in salads. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ginger MEDICINAL: Ginger is an excellent herb to use for strengthening and healing the respiratory system, as well as for fighting off colds and flu. It removes congestion, soothes sore throats, and relieves headaches and body aches. Combined with other herbs, it enhances their effectiveness. It is also very effective in combatting motion sickness. MAGICKAL: Ginger is used in passion spells, to "heat up" the relationship. It is used in success spells, and to ensure the success of spells. GROWING: Ginger grows through most of North America. It reaches to 6 inches high, and is a perennial. The dried ground root is the part used for healing. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ginseng MEDICINAL: Ginseng stimulates the body to overcome all forms of illness, physical and mental. It is used to lower blood pressure, increase endurance, aid in relieving depression, and is a sexual stimulant. The dried root is used for healing purposes. It has been used throughout ancient times to the present day for use in conjunction with most herbs in treating all sorts of illnesses. MAGICKAL: Ginseng is carried to guard your health and to attract love. It will also ensure sexual potency. Ginseng can be a substitute for mandrake. GROWING: Ginseng can be very difficult to grow. Germination of disinfected seeds (to kill mold, which plagues ginseng at all stages of growth) can take up to a year or more. Plant in early autumn in raised beds of very humus-rich soil. Plants must be shaded at all times. Roots are not harvested until the plants are at least 6 years old. Take care during harvesting and drying not to break off any of the "arms" of the root. Dry for one month before use. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Goldenseal MEDICINAL: Goldenseal is another natural, powerful antibiotic. It should not be used by pregnant women. The herb goes straight to the bloodstream and eliminates infection in the body. It enables the liver to recover. When taken in combination with other herbs, it will boost the properties for the accompanying herbs. MAGICKAL: Goldenseal is used n properity spells, as well as healing spells and rituals. GROWING: Goldenseal prefers rich soils in partial shade. It is a perennial herb that grows 6 - 18 inches high. The dried ground root is the part most often used, although the dried leaves are used in teas. It is difficult to grow successfully, and the plants need to be at least 6 years old before harvesting. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gotu Kola MEDICINAL: Gotu Kola is and excellent mental stimulant. It is often used after mental breakdowns, and used regularly, can prevent nervous breakdown, as it is a brain cell stimulant. It relieves mental fatigue and senility, and aids the body in defending itself against toxins. MAGICKAL: Gotu Kola is used in meditation incenses. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hawthorn MEDICINAL: Hawthorn is effective for curing insomnia. Hawthorn is used to prevent miscarriage and for treating nervousness. Hawthorn has been used for centuries in treating heart disease, as regular use strengthens the heart muscles, and to prevent arteriosclerosis, angina, and poor heart action. MAGICKAL: The leaves are used to make protection sachets. They are also carried to ensure good fishing. In Europe, Hawthorn was used to repel witchcraft spells. Bringing branches of it into the home is supposed to portend death. It is incorporated into spells and rituals for fertility. It will protect the home from damaging storms. GROWING: Hawthorn is a deciduous tree or shrub, that can reach 40 feet tall. It grows throughout North America. It is tolerant of most soils, but prefers alkaline, rich, moist loam. Consult a nursery for the best species to use in your area. The fruit is the part used in healing. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hazel MAGICKAL: Hazel's forked branches are used for divining, and the wood makes wonderful wands. Hazel nuts hung in the house will bring luck, and can be carried to cause fertility. Eaten, the nuts bring wisdom. GROWING: Hazelnut trees do best when planted in a well-drained, fertile, slightly acid soil. They do best where the winter temps are above -10. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Heather MEDICINAL: A tea made of heather blossoms is used to suppress coughing, and as an aid for sleeplessness. MAGICKAL: Heather is carried as a guard against rape and violent crime. In potpourri, it adds protection. When burned with fern, it will bring rain. GROWING: Heather prefers rocky or sandy soils and full sun. It is an evergreen shrub that grows 1 -2 feet tall. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Henbane MEDICINAL: Henbane stops pain, and lessens perspiration. Henbane is very toxic, so it should not be used by pregnant women or the weak or children, and should be used in only extremely small amounts for external use only, and not on a regular basis. A poultice of leaves is used briefly to remove pain from wounds. MAGICKAL: Henbane is sometimes thrown into the water to bring rain. In olden times, it had many more uses, but is seldom used today due to its poisonous nature. GROWING: Henbane grows wild throughout temperate North Americal. Due to its toxic nature, it is not advisable to grow in the home garden. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Holly MAGICKAL: Holly is used as a protective plant, and used as decoration during the Yule season. Planted outside the home, it will also afford protection. Sprinkle holly water on newborn babies to protect them. GROWING: Holly likes slightly acid soils, and can tolerate poor, sandy soil. It needs full sun, and grows to about 4 feet tall. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hops MEDICINAL: Hops is a sedative. Therefore, it is useful in treating insomnia and nervous tension. It is mild and safe. It is used in brewing beer and ales.It also removes poisons from the body. MAGICKAL: Hops is used in healing incenses. Sleep pillows often include hops to induce sleep and pleasant dreams. GROWING: Hops prefers full sun, and will adapt to many soils. It is a perennial vine that reaches to 30 feet in length. The portion of the plant used in healing are the dried flowers. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Horehound MEDICINAL: Horehound is used in children's cough remedies, as it is a gentle but effective expectorant. It acts as a tonic for the respiratory system and stomach. In large doses it acts as a laxative. MAGICKAL: Horehound is used in incenses for protection. It is also used in exorcisms. GROWING: Horehound likes dry sandy soils and full sun. It is a perennial (except in very cold climates) that reaches to 3 feet tall. It is a vigorous grower and can become a pest if not carefully controlled. It needs little water, tolerates poor soils, and does best in full sun. It blooms during its second year. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Horsetail MEDICINAL: Horsetail is used in treating urinary tract infections. It aids in coagulation and decreases bleeding. It will also help broken bones heal faster, and will help brittle nails and hair, due to its high silica content. It has also been used as part of a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. Do not use if pregnant or nursing. MAGICKAL: Whistles made form the stalks of Horsetail are used to call the spirits. GROWING: Horsetail needs swamps and damp places to grow, in full sun to partial shade. It grows to 1 - 2 feet tall. The plant itself is used in healing. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hyssop MEDICINAL: Hyssop is used in treating lung ailments. The leaves have been applied to wounds to aid in healing. The tea us also used to soothe sore throats. It has been used to inhibit the growth of the herpes simplex virus. MAGICKAL: Hyssop is used in purification baths and rituals, and used to cleanse persons and objects. GROWING: Hyssop prefers dry conditions, tolerates most soils, and full sun. It is a member of the mint family. It is a perennial shrubby plant growing to 3 feet tall. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Iceland Moss MEDICINAL: Iceland Moss, a lichen, has been used for centuries to treat all kinds of chest ailments. It is used to nourish the weak, elderly, and weakly children. GROWING: Iceland Moss grows in cold, humid mountain areas and wooded areas. It grows to 4 inches tall. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ivy MAGICKAL: Ivy is grown to grow up the ouside of the home to act as a guardian and protector. It is worn by brides to bring luck to the marriage. GROWING: Ivy has many different varieties, and most will adapt to many different soil and growing conditions. It grows throughout North America. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
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