Posts Tagged ‘Herbs’

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Medicinal Monday – Eucalyptus Oil

Monday, March 5th, 2012

Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus is a genus of the plant family Myrtaceae, and most likely first discovered by the Aborigines, the native inhabitants of Australia. (There are more than 700 species of Eucalyptus) The essential oil is obtained from the branches and leaves. A steam distillation process is used to extract the oil from the tree parts, and some 110 pounds of plant material is required to produce about 2 pounds of eucalyptus oil. The medicinal properties of eucalyptus oil is an effective remedy for skin problems and fever, and has long been called the “fever tree”. Modern herbalists rely on eucalyptus oil to treat colds, fever, respiratory diseases, joint and muscle pain, migraines and bladder problems. The oil has strong germicidal and antibacterial effects.

Photo by pizzodisevo

For Mental Fatigue:
The essential oil stimulates the nervous system and promotes concentration. Combined with lemon oil in a diffuser, it is ideal for mental exhaustion and listlessness.
  • 4 drops eucalyptus oil
  • 2 drops lemon oil
Therapeutic effects:
The principal ingredient in eucalyptus oil is eucalyptol, which has strong germicidal and disinfectant properties.
  • As a diuretic, it lowers blood sugar and helps to relieve cough and fever.
  • As an effective analgesic, it is often used in preparations designed to relieve muscle, nerve and joint pain.
  • On a psychological level, it helps to combat exhaustion and dispels mental sluggishness.
For a sense of well being:
  • Blend a few drops of eucalyptus oil and massage oils for a cooling and stimulating effect on both mind and body. (Apply to pulse points)
To purify the sickroom:
It is an ideal essence to use in a sickbed environment.
  • Five drops of the oil in a diffuser will kill germs in the air and reduce the number of airborne bacteria. (This helps keep germs from spreading)
For wounds and abscesses:
The STRONG germicidal effect can help heal wounds, burns, ulcers and insect bites or stings.
  • Place a few drops of the oil on a dressing or bandage before covering the area with it.
To suppress coughs:
  • A chest compress with eucalyptus and massage oils will help loosen phlegm and improve lung function.
To improve the sauna:
Get the best detoxifying effects of a sauna.
  • Place 3 drops of the oil in a ladle fulL of water and pour over the hot stones.
Applications:

External use:
  • Lower a fever with a eucalyptus calf wrap; Add 5 drops of eucalyptus oil to 1 qt. of lukewarm water, soak linen or cotton cloths in the mixture. Wrap the cloths around your calves and secure with dry cloths. (Calf wraps should be used only when the feet are warm)
  • To get rid of dandruff; Mix 10 drops of eucalyptus oil with your shampoo and massage well into your scalp. (Wait a few minutes before rinsing)
  • To alleviate cold symptoms; Place a few drops of eucalyptus oil on a handkerchief and deeply inhale.
  • To relieve sinus and chest congestion; Combine 5 drops of eucalyptus oil with 1 drop of peppermint oil. Add crushed eucalyptus, peppermint, coltsfoot and comfrey herbs. Place ½ oz. of mixture in a clean sock, knot the end and place inside your pillowcase overnight.
  • For relief from muscular aches and pains; Mix 10-15 drops of eucalyptus oil and 2 oz. of sweet almond or grapeseed oil, massage into muscles.
Tips:
Insects dislike the odor of eucalyptus oil.
  • Add a few drops of the oil to massage oil.
  • Place a few drops in a diffuser to keep the room pest free.

Warning: Too much eucalyptus oil can irritate the skin, be sure to use the exact amount specified in the preparations listed here. Combining eucalyptus oil with massage oil reduces the chance of irritation. Keep eucalyptus oil away from children.

References:

  • The Complete Guide To Natural Healing

Note: Consult with a Physician or certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all, have a great day!

Lisa

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Hump Day Herbs – Oak

Wednesday, January 25th, 2012

Oak

Botanical Name: Quercus Alba

Folk Names: Jove’s Nuts, Juglans (Latin)Duir, White Oak

The oak is revered as a sacred tree, to the Greeks, Romans, Celts, Slavs and Teutonic tribes it was associated with the supreme god in their pantheon. Also, sacred to Zeus, Jupiter, Dagda, Perun and Thor, each of these gods had dominion over rain, thunder and lightning. It is no coincidence that oak trees seem to be more prone to lightning strikes than other trees, whether it be because of the wood’s low electrical resistance or the fact that they are often the tallest in the landscape.

Today, many believe that the Yule log should be made from it. When it is but ashes, those are strewn on one’s land to bring good fortune and wealth in the coming year. Oak leaves’ connection with rainfall is also survived in more recent folklore in a rhyme about which tree’s leaves appeared first, such as the Irish saying:

If the oak before the ash,
Then we’ll only have a splash.
If the ash before the oak,
Then we’ll surely have a soak!


Photo by Tie Guy II

“A tree as long-lived and strong as the oak naturally offers magical protection.”

Deities: Cybele, Dagda, Dianus, Erato, Hecate, Heme, Janus, Jupiter, Pan, Rhea, Thor, Zeus

Element: Fire (Courage, Exorcism, Health, Lust, Protection, Strength)

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Jupiter (Money, Prosperity, Legal Matters, Luck, Protection)

Powers: Protection, Health, Money, Healing, Potency, Fertility, Luck

Magical Uses:
Decorate altars with leaves as early as Lammas and Samhain.

  • Acorns are beaded and worn for fertility
  • Carrying any piece of the oak draws good luck.
  • Plant an acorn in the dark of the Moon to receive money.
  • Carrying an acorn increases fertility and strengthens sexual potency.
  • If you can catch a falling oak leaf you shall have no colds all winter.
  • The bark may be gathered and dried, then ground and used as an incense to invoke or honor any of the deities associated with the it.
  • The oak’s association with Vesta and fire festivals lends itself to working with this herbal tree in conjunction with elemental fire.
  • When a person is sick, place oak wood in the fireplace to “draw off” the illness.
  • Make a charm from oak. Take two equal lengths of twig or of a small branch and bind them together in a cross. This represents keeping one’s self in balance with the four elements. It can also be hung in the house for protection.
  • Acorns may be adapted into amulets and tokens. (Highly appropriate for the Samhain celebration)
  • It is believed there is no wand as sacred as one made of oak.
  • Collect an acorn and empower it throughout the winter, then plant it before the snow melts so that the new tree will be one of magic and power.
  • Acorns placed in windows guard the entrance against lightning, and a piece of oak wood, carried, protects its bearer from all harm.
  • Oak is used to bring protection against the ferocity of the elements and the dangers of life, and we use oak to ask for divine assistance in having our needs met.

Ritual Uses:

  • Include oak in the fire for your Midsummer ritual.
  • The bark may be dried and powdered and used to unite one with the gods and goddesses.
  • The Druids (traditionally) would not meet for rituals unless an oak was present, and the very words “oak” and “Druid,” some say, are related. Religious idols were fashioned from oak wood, and Witches often danced beneath the tree.

Medicinal Uses: Native Americans used White oak medicinally, it was valued for its antiseptic and astringent properties and used in the treatment of many complaints. The inner bark contains 6 – 11% tannin, and can be boiled and the liquid drunk in the treatment diarrhoea, intermittent fevers, coughs and colds, consumption, asthma, lost voice etc. The bark has been chewed as a treatment for mouth sores. Externally, it is used as a wash for skin eruptions, burns, rashes, bruises, ulcers etc and as a vaginal douche. It has also been used as a wash for muscular pains. The bark is best collected in the spring.

References:

  • Catherine Yronwode: Hoodoo Herb and Root Magic
  • umm.edu
  • Paul Beyerl: A Compendium of Herbal Magick
  • Scott Cunningham: Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of magical herbs

Note: Consult with a Physician or certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all and have a great day!

Lisa

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Medicinal Monday – Chamomile Tea

Monday, January 23rd, 2012

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile is one of the most widely used flowers and effective medicinal teas known. The gentle action of this herb makes it suitable for children and adults, and can be safely used on a regular basis. It is widely used for stomachaches, insomnia, sore throats, cramps and teething children. Matricaria recutita, or German chamomile contains the highest concentration of the essential oils responsible for giving chamomile its healing power. The medicinal use of chamomile dates back to the Romans, who relied on its antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also said that the Egyptians dedicated Chamomile to their sun god and valued it over all other herbs for its healing qualities. Except for the small risk of allergy, Chamomile is one of the safest herbs to use.


Photo by Justin and Elise

Preparation of Tea:

  • In a teapot, place 1 tsp. of chamomile flowers per cup of water.
  • Boil the water, then let it cool slightly (using boiling water will cause the various therapeutic compounds in chamomile to evaporate).
  • For best results, steep the tea less than 5 min.

Therapeutic Effect:

  • The healing effect of chamomile is primarily due to the chamazulene and alpha-bisabolol in its essential oil.
  • Chamomile has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and antibacterial effects.
  • It calm the nerves and induces sleep.
  • Chamomile tea can be used in healing compresses or added to bathwater.

For treatment of gastric problems:

  • The essential oils in chamomile combined with other ingredients, such as sulfur and calcium, help relieve gastrointestinal inflammation.
  • To ease pain and stimulate the digestion, drink 3 or 4 cups of freshly prepared tea daily for a period of several weeks.

For relief of intestinal cramps:

  • The flavonoids in chamomile tea can prevent gas and relieve cramps.
  • For menstrual cramps, a chamomile tincture is better because its flavonoid concentration is a third higher than that of the tea.

Medicinal Uses:

For eye problems:
A Chamomile tea compresses helps relieve eye pain, eye strain and eyelid inflammation.

  • Soak 2 cotton pads in lukewarm tea and place them on the eyes for a few minutes.

Warning: Strain the tea thoroughly to remove any pieces of chamomile flower.

For inflammation, restlessness and insomnia:
A chamomile tea bath provides quick relief from skin inflammations, restlessness and insomnia.

  • Add 1 qt. of chamomile tea to a bathtub full of warm water.
  • For insomnia, take the bath before bedtime.

For menstrual cramps:
A chamomile tincture can alleviate menstrual cramps.

  • Add 2/3 oz. of chamomile flowers to 1 ½ oz. of 100 proof alcohol and let it steep for 1 week.
  • Strain and store in a dark vial.
  • Take 10 drops in a glass of water.

For flu and cough:
The germicidal effect of a chamomile vapor helps destroy the germs that cause flu and alleviates coughing.

  • Pour 2 qt. of hot water over 2 cups of chamomile flowers.
  • Cover your head with a towel and inhale the vapors.

Warning: Do not use if you suffer from cardiovascular disease.

Healing Tea mixtures:

For gastric complaints:

  • 1 oz. chamomile
  • 2/3 oz peppermint
  • 1 oz. caraway seeds
  • 2/3 oz. angelica

Use 1 tsp. of the mixture per cup of hot water. Steep the mixture 10 min and strain. This soothes the gastro intestinal tract and stimulates digestive activiy, making it useful for stomachaches or a too full feeling.

For Cystitis:

  • 1 oz. chamomile
  • 1 oz. yarrow
  • 1 oz. sage

Use 1 tsp. of the mixture per cup of hot water. Steep the mixture 5 min and strain. The anti-inflammatory components relieve bladder pain and urinary discomfort. Drink as much as you wish daily until the inflammation has healed.

For skin problems

  • 1 oz. chamomile
  • 1 oz. dandelion
  • 2/3 oz. fennel

Use 1 tsp. of the mixture per cup of hot water. Steep 5-10 min and strain. This medicinal tea blend stimulates metabolic activity, which helps promote the healing of inflammatory skin conditions, such as abscesses, boils and acne.

Warning: Chamomile has been known to cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to ragweed or other members of the daisy family.

References:

  • The Complete Guide To Natural Healing

Note: Consult with a Physician or certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all and have a great day!

Lisa

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Hump Day Herbs – Nettle

Wednesday, January 11th, 2012

Nettle

Botanical Name: Urtica Dioica

Folk Names: Ortiga Ancha, Stinging Nettle


Photo by Anni&John

Nettle, is a perennial herbaceous, native to Europe, Asia, northern Africa, and North America, and is best known as a member of the genus Urtica. It has several hollow stinging hairs called trichomes on its leaves and stems, which act like needles that inject histamine and other chemicals that produce a stinging sensation when in contact with humans and animals.

Nettles have been associated with death and burial customs. During the Bronze Age, burial cloths have been found that were woven of its fibers. In the highlands and the islands of Ireland, people believed that nettle grew from the bodies of the dead. The Welsh believed, if fresh Nettles were put under the pillow of a sick person and stayed green, the person would live, if they turned yellow, that person would die. In Denmark, people thought that nettles grew from the blood of innocent victims.

Deity: Thor

Element: Fire (Courage, Exorcism, Health, Lust, Protection, Strength)

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Mars (Courage, Exorcism, Hex Breaking, Lust, Protection, Sexual Potency, Strength)

Powers: Consecration, Exorcism, Healing, Lust, Protection

Medicinal Uses: Stinging Nettle have been used for hundreds of years to treat painful muscles and joints, eczema, arthritis, gout, and anemia. Today, many people use it to treat urinary problems during the early stages of an enlarged prostate (called benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH), for urinary tract infections, for hay fever (allergic rhinitis), or in compresses or creams for treating joint pain, sprains and strains, tendonitis, and insect bites.

Magical Uses: Brooms made of Nettle are used to sweep out evil and send it back. To remove a curse and send it back, stuff a poppet with Nettle or carry it in a sachet. For healing power, pluck a Nettle up by it’s roots and recite the name of the sick person and his/her parents. Place Nettle leaves into pockets to be safe from lighting. If dry leaves are placed into shoes, it will keep evil from leading one to harmful places. Sprinkle Nettle around the house to keep evil out and send it back. To avoid avoid danger sprinkle in fire, it can also be carried on one’s hand to ward off ghosts.

Ritual Uses: To consecrate an Athame,  plunge  heated blade into an herbal bath with nettles. In the Kawaiisu tribe, children who wished to study witchcraft had to walk through Nettles as practice. It also played a major role in fishing magick, as it was once used for fishing nets. It would be a great herb for knot magic.

Other Uses: Seeds have been known to be be soaked in water for twenty minutes, then used for a final rinse after shampooing.

Warning: Stinging Nettle should not be used by pregnant women and should never be applied to an open wound.

References:

  • umm.edu
  • Paul Beyerl: A Compendium of Herbal Magick
  • Scott Cunningham: Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of magical herbs

Note: Consult with a Physician or certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all and have a great day!

Lisa

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Medicinal Monday – Wild Strawberry

Monday, January 9th, 2012

Wild Strawberry

Botanical Name: Fragaria Vesca

Native Americans used Wild Strawberries in tea for stomach ailments, jaundice and profuse menses, and the botanist Linnaeus is said to have used the wild berries to relive gout. Until recently the plant’s medicinal uses were forgotten. They are also used in love rituals. If a double strawberry is shared with someone, the two will fall in love. The Strawberries are a symbol for Venus, the Goddess of love.


Photo by dnhoshor

Plant fact: Native to North America, Wild Strawberries are a member of the rose family. They grow to about 8 inches high, and begin to develop in June. The berries are very fleshy with an outer skin that contains the plant’s actual fruits, the bard and tiny yellow seeds.

Parts used: The leaves, berries and roots are used for therapeutic purpose. (Keep dried plants parts protected from humidity)

Components:

  • The leaves and roots contain tannin. (which has an astringent action)
  • The leaves are composed of triterpene alcohols, flavonoids, citral (a lemony substance) and traces of essential oils.
  • The berries contain a great amount of vitamin C (60 milligrams per 100 grams fruit), as well as fruit acids and minerals-such as potassium, magnesium, zinc, manganese, calcium and iron.

Indications: Since the leaves provide an astringent action, they can be used to make a tea that reduces inflamed mucous membranes in the mouth. Fresh strawberries, on the other hand, soothe gastritis and are also helpful in curing anemia.

Methods of Administration:

Fresh root decoction:

  • Add 1 gram wild strawberry root parts to about ½ cup of cold water.
  • Heat, and allow to steep for about 30 min.
  • Drink 2 cup daily before meals for diarrhea relief.

Infusion for gargling:

  • Add about ¼ cup of chopped wild strawberry leaves to ½ cup boiling hot water.
  • Step for 30 min.
  • Rinse and gargle several times a day to reduce inflammation of oral mucous membranes.

Infusion:

  • Add about 1/8 oz, of chopped leaves to ½ cup boiling water
  • Steep for approximately 15 min.
  • Three to four cups daily will strengthen the blood.

Soothing bath:

  • Add 2 handful fresh or 1 cup of dried leaves to your bathwater.
  • You’ll find dried leaves at your local natural-food stores.

Poultice:

  • Apply crushed berries to sunburned areas-or other skin inflammations-and cover with a damps cloth.
  • Allow the poultice to work for 10-20 min
  • Gently wash off the berries with warm water.

Tip: The fresh or dried leaves infused in tea offers relief from diarrhea and other digestive upsets.

References:

  • The Complete Guide To Natural Healing

Note: Consult with a Physician if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the information listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all, have a great day!

Lisa

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Hump Day Herbs – Garlic

Wednesday, December 7th, 2011

Garlic

Botanical Name: Allium Sativum

Folk Names: Ajo, Clove Garlic, Poor Man’s Treacle, Stinkweed

Native to Central Asia, garlic is a species in the onion family Alliaceae.

The ancient Greeks placed garlic at cross-roads as a supper for the goddess Hecate, or for protection to ward off demons. Greek midwives would hang garlic cloves in birthing rooms to keep evil spirits away. Athletes would take large amounts of garlic before competition, and soldiers would consume garlic before going into battle. Roman soldiers ate garlic to inspire and give them courage. Egyptian slaves were fed garlic to keep up strength. Tibetan monks were forbidden from entering monasteries if they had eaten garlic. Nicholas Culpeper, (botanist/herbalist/astrologer) linked garlic with the planet Mars. A fiery planet also connected with blood. Dreaming that there is “garlic in the house” is known to mean you will discover hidden secrets.

Deity: Hekate

Element: Fire (Courage, Exorcism, Health, Lust, Protection, Strength)

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Mars (Courage, Exorcism, Hex-Breaking, Lust, Protection, Sexual Potency, Strength)

Powers: Anti-Theft, Healing, Exorcism, Lust, Protection

Medicinal Uses: Garlic has been used to prevent health problems including colds, flu, menstrual pain, high blood pressure, coughs, gastrointestinal problems, atherosclerosis, and bronchitis. It has been proven to kill various fungal infections, viruses, bacteria, and intestinal parasites. Also labeled as an antioxidant, garlic may help prevent certain cancers such as colon cancer and can improve the effectiveness of the immune system. Most popular, garlic is used for its effectiveness of cardiovascular wellness, as well as treating atherosclerosis, high cholesterol, respiratory infections, and triglyceride levels.

Magical Uses: Garlic is known to be extremely protective. It is excellent in a new home, hang braids of garlic to ward off thieves and evil. For protection while sleeping,  place under a pillow or make into a wreath placed above the bed.  Eating and wearing garlic is said to improve agility, courage, and physical endurance.

Ritual Uses: The bulb, stem, and flowers can be used in spells and as an amulet for protection. Burn the powdered herb to break spells and curses. Place with silver in a sachet of leather to bring money. Scatter around the home to promote lust.

Other Uses: Studies have found that concentrated garlic kills ticks within thirty minutes. Dehydrated garlic is used as a nutritional supplement in pet food to repel fleas and ticks.

References:

Note: Consult with a Physician or certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all and have a great day!

Lisa

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Medinical Monday – Echinacea

Monday, October 17th, 2011

Echinacea

(Echinacea Augustifolia)

Echinacea is a Perennial plant from the the daisy family, Asteraceae. Native to North America, it grows to a height of 2-3 feet.

It was widely used by the Plains Indians for its medicinal qualities as a treatment for symptoms caused by the common cold. In the 1930s it became popular in both Europe and America as a herbal medicine.


Photo by BarefootGardener

Echinacea is produced in a variety of forms:

  • Pills, liquid, chewable tablets and instant tea.
  • Echinacea may be combined with other plant extracts to increase their effectiveness.
  • A combination of Echinacea, wild indigo, water hemp and arnica have been proven to be especially effective for boosting immunity.

Therapeutic Effect:

  • Echinacea contains several ingredients that exert an overall stimulating effect on the immune system.
  • It activates the liver, lymph nodes and mucous membranes, that enhances the body’s overall ability to fight infections.
  • Echinacea also contains substances that have wound healing and germicidal properties.

Components: (2 main ingredients)
Store-bought preparations are usually made from the flower, leaves and root.

  • echinacosides (in the flower and root)
  • polysaccharide heteroxylan (in the leaves)

Echinacea compresses
Echinacea possesses germ killing and wound healing properties.

  • Soak a damp cotton cloth in a solution containing 1 part Echinacea to 2 parts water and apply gently to the affected area.
  • A compresses can help to relieve swollen glands, inflammations of the veins (phlebitis), infected cuts, skin abrasions, burns and inflamed insect bites.

Side effects:
There have been no reports of side effects. However, take caution when taking Echinacea. Many preparations contain alcohol to increase shelf life, children should be given pure pressed juice, lozenges or chewable tablets.

Latest research findings:
Extreme physical exertion can weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections. Many sports physicians recommend that anyone undergoing endurance training take Echinacea for a day or so after extreme physical exertion to strengthen the immune system.

It can also be used for the treatment of coughs, sneezing, hoarseness, sore throat, tonsillitis, sinus infections, skin inflammations, minor wounds, bladder or kidney infections, gynaecologic infections and general immune deficiency.

Duration of use:
Continuous use is not advised. Some studies suggest that it is only effective up to 10 days.

Tip: As soon as fever blisters begin, treat with Echinacea. Place a few drops of pressed Echinacea juice on a cotton ball or swab and gently apply  to the infected area. This remedy can halt the progression of the lesions or prevent them all together.

References:

  • The Complete Guide To Natural Healing

Note: Consult with a Physician if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the information listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all and have a great day!

Lisa

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Hump Day Herbs – Mace

Wednesday, October 5th, 2011

Mace

Botanical Name: Myristica Fragrans

Folk Names: Jatiphala, Jatiphalam, Jatikosha, Jatipatri, Jatipatra, Jaiphal, Jayapatri, Javitri, Bicuiba Acu, Qoust, Sadhika, Wohpala


Photo by yumievriwan

Mace is the the bright, red aril which surrounds the nutmeg seed. Nutmeg is known for it’s abuse as a popular recreational psychoactive drug. Based on human study, mace extract, when used as part of a chewing gum, is said to decrease plaque and gingivitis. Not well studied in humans, mace extract may also have antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. It is also popular in India, for treating measles. Not only is it used for medicine, but also in the kitchen and magic.

Deities: Ochun, Oya

Element: Air (Mental Powers, Physic Powers, Visions, Wisdom)

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Mercury (Divination, Mental Powers, Physic Powers, Wisdom)

Powers: Mental & Psychic Powers

Medicinal Uses: Mace has been used in many Chinese and Indian traditional medicines to treat the nervous and digestive system. The compounds in this spice, myristicin and elemicin have stimulant properties on the brain.  The oil contains eugenol, and in dentistry, has been used to relieve toothaches and bad breath. It is also used to reduce muscular and rheumatic pain in joints. A fresh decoction with honey has been used to relieve nausea, gastritis, indigestion ailments.

Magical Uses: Carry Mace blade’s in a charm/sachet for luck, or to improve the intellect. Burn in incense to increase psychic power, or for creative work.

Other Uses: Mace has a delectable flavor, and will give a saffron-like orange-red color to the food items.

Warning: Mace is safe to take in small doses. In large amounts, it may result in hallucinations and can even cause cancer.

References:

Note: Consult with a Physician or a certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all, have a great day!

Lisa

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Medicinal Monday – Garlic

Monday, August 15th, 2011

Garlic

(Allium Sativum)

Garlic has been valued for its healing properties and ability to increase the body’s strength and energy, and is said to help prevent heart disease, stroke and hypertension. The essential oils in garlic have strong, antibiotic, anti-fungal and antiviral properties. The medicinal benefits make a delicious seasoning for so many foods, just add chopped raw garlic to cooked meats, poultry and vegetables or use it in salads. Crushed garlic in oil is excellent for a dressing or pickle whole garlic cloves for a condiment. Garlic in salve form helps ease neuralgia, joint pain, sprains, corns and other skin afflictions.

The ancient Greeks placed garlic at cross-roads as a supper for the goddess Hecate, or for protection to ward off demons. Greek midwives would hang garlic cloves in birthing rooms to keep evil spirits away. Athletes would take large amounts of garlic before competition, and soldiers would consume garlic before going into battle. Roman soldiers ate garlic to inspire and give them courage. Egyptian slaves were fed garlic to keep up strength. Tibetan monks were forbidden from entering monasteries if they had eaten garlic. Nicholas Culpeper, (botanist/herbalist/astrologer) linked garlic with the planet Mars. A fiery planet also connected with blood. Dreaming that there is “garlic in the house” is known to mean you will discover hidden secrets.


Photo by Sebastian Mary

Help for colds:

Fresh garlic mixed with honey is an excellent home remedy for colds, hoarseness and inflammation of the throat.

  • With a press or a mini food processor, crush 1 oz. of fresh garlic cloves.
  • Mix garlic with 1 cup of honey.
  • Let the mixture sit for 1 hr to infuse the honey with the garlic’s essential oils.
  • Store in a cool place.

The first sign of a cold, take 1-2 tsp. of the mixture. (repeat every hour thereafter) This  remedy is also effective for relieving severe chest congestion and painful coughing.

Therapeutic effects:
The sulfur in garlic’s essential oil makes a good defense for killing germs. Once garlic is ingested, it is absorbed into the blood stream and then diffused through various organs. The skin, intestines, lungs and urinary system profit highly from it’s healing properties.

Components:
Garlic is high in essential oils, the principal active agent is allicin. This is what gives garlic it’s scent, as well as healing properties. Garlic also contains calcium, selenium, potassium and zinc.

Fighting heart disease and stroke:
Garlic lowers LDL (“the bad cholesterol”) and raises HDL (“the good cholesterol”), this helps prevent buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries. It also helps blood clots from forming. This is what protects against heart attack and stroke.

Pickled Garlic:

Ingredients:

  • 5 or 6 bulbs of garlic
  • 1 small ginger-root
  • 1 tbsp. salt
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 4 peppercorns
  • 3 tbsp. plus 1 tsp. sugar
  • 1 cup white wine vinegar

Preparation:

  • Peel the garlic.
  • Peel and slice the ginger.
  • Place 1 qt. of water in a saucepan, add the salt and bring to a boil.
  • Add the garlic and simmer for 3-5 min; drain well.
  • Place the garlic, bay leaf and peppercons in a small jar with a screw on cap.
  • In the same saucepan, combine ½ cup of water with the ginger, sugar and vinegar. b(boil the mixture)
  • Immediately pour it over the garlic.
  • Store the closed jar at room temperature for 1 week.

For intestinal Upset:
Garlic has been used to help treat ulcers. Eat 7-9 cloves of garlic throughout the day, with milk or spread on bread. (not recommended for pregnant women or nursing mothers)

For infections:
For athlete’s foot, warts, skin infections and acne, rub (freshly mashed) garlic over the affected area with a piece of gauze.

Kitchen Hints:

When buying garlic:

  • choose solid, firm bulbs.
  • The outer skin should be taut, unbroken and white or violet in color.
  • Avoid bulbs with soft or damp spots.
  • Store garlic in a cool, dry place. (it will keep for several weeks)
  • A ceramic garlic keeper is best for storage because it lets air circulate.

Braided strands of garlic are more likely to spoil before use. It loses its antibacterial effect when cooked or aged for more than 24 hrs hrs. (garlic is best eaten when raw)

If not prepared properly, garlic in oil preparations can cause botulism. When making homemade garlic oils, refrigerate and keep no longer than 10-14 days.

Tip: Chew parsley, thyme, or peppermint immediately after eating garlic to avoid bad breath.

References:

  • The Complete Guide To Natural Healing

Note: Consult with a Physician if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the information listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all and have a great day!

Lisa

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Hump Day Herbs – Lady’s Mantle

Wednesday, August 10th, 2011

Lady’s Mantle

Botanical Name: Alchemilla Vulgaris

Folk Names: Bear’s Foot, Leontopodium, Lion’s Hook, Nine Hooks, Stellaria


Photo by amortize

Folklore: The dew gathered from the leaves, (which is said to be a key ingredient in several alchemical formulas) was used as a beauty lotion. Lady’s Mantle’s first association with the worship is that of the Earth Mother, but as Christianity spread, (like many pagan symbols) it was absorbed and eventually became associated with the Virgin Mary.

Deities: Kanaloa, Kane, Lono

Element: Water (Fidelity, Friendship, Healing, Love, Meditation, Prophetic Dreams, Purification, sleep)

Gender: Feminine

Planet: Venus (Beauty, Fidelity, Friendship, Love, Youth)

Powers: Love

Medicinal Uses: Lady’s mantle is used for treating stomach ailments, diarrhea, excess water retention, muscle contractions and diabetes. It is also used as a gargle to relieve inflammation of the mouth and throat. Other uses include relieving painful menstruation and symptoms of menopause. Lady’s mantle is also used on the skin for treating wounds, ulcers and rashes, as well as to stop superficial bleeding. Some use lady’s mantle in bath water for alleviating lower abdominal problems.

Magical Uses: Lady’s mantle is used in love spells, potions and amulets.

Ritual Uses: Place a single flower in your hair or weave in a crown to find love. (Visualize the flowery connection to the Goddess of love.)

Other Uses – Lady’s mantle is most famous today as a garden plant. It is also used in homeopathy.

References:

  • Scott Cunningham: Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of magical herbs

Note: Consult with a Physician or a certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all, have a great day!

Lisa

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