Posts Tagged ‘Medicinal’

Medicinal Monday – Yoga (Self Healing Techniques)

Monday, August 12th, 2013

Yoga

Have you ever taken a few brief moments to breathe deeply or gently stretch your body? Then you actually practiced some natural yoga. Yoga originates from ancient East Indian philosophies and is more than 6000 years old. It can alter consciousness in its pure form. Originally, the goals of yoga were the liberation of the body from earthly desires, as well as cleansing and quieting of the mind. Yoga is a primary source of all mind body fitness programs, it’s a discipline unifying mind, body and spirit.  Hatha yoga (yoga for strength) is most commonly practiced today. It consists of a combination of body postures, gentle stretching, breathing exercises, meditation and relaxation techniques. This helps to balance and attune opposing energy forces in the body generating improved health, well being and inner peace.

The eight paths:
The body, mind, and soul gradually transforms and generates a new strength. The consistent practice of yoga is said to give you greater health and wisdom. Yoga follows 8 guidelines summarized in the 8 paths:

  • Yama – correct moral code, ethical standards and sense of integrity
  • Niyama – self discipline and spiritual observances
  • Asana – postures
  • Pranayama – breathing, connection between the breath, the mind, and the emotions
  • Pratahara – moving inward toward the self, direct attention internally
  • Dharana – concentration
  • Dhyana – meditation, a state of stillness
  • Samadhi – being one with the universe, fulfillment, bliss, ecstasy

The treatment:

  • Begin postures with proper breathing and relaxation techniques.
  • There are more than 80 basic postures, which are held from a few seconds to several minutes.
  • Begin the exercises cautiously and consistently, stretch until you reach a comfortable limit.

Effect:

  • You will notice surprising changes in yourself if you practice yoga regularly, even after a short period of time.
  • Yoga strengthens mental and spiritual balance.
  • You will become more content and composed.
  • It will help you to cope better with daily demands, stress, and worries will recede.

Yogic breathing:

  • Regular, relaxed deep breathing plays an important role in the effectiveness of yoga postures. Life energy is taken into the body along with the breath, according to ancient yoga texts. This energy reaches all regions of the body, giving them strength. Life energy flows through the body of a well composed, healthy human. You may feel sick if this flow is obstructed. Yoga postures remove obstructions, enhancing energy, well being, and inner peace are restored.
  • The best time to practice yoga are in the morning before breakfast and in the evening before dinner.
  • Yoga is effective for alleviating muscle tension, joint problems, chronic pain, nervousness, anxiety and sleep disorders, as well as strengthening the body, mind and spirit, and promoting spiritual balance and focus.

Types of Yoga:

  • The best type of yoga can be determined with the help of a certified instructor. Classes can generally be found in fitness centers or schools.

Hatha Yoga:

  • Hatha yoga is great for beginners. It is slow-paced, gentle, and focused on postures, breathing, and meditation. Some teachers of this technique focus on physical poses while others concentrate more on relaxation, breathing and meditation. It relieves stress, provides physical exercise, and improves breathing.

Vinyasa:

  • Vinyasa is much like Hatha, it covers basic poses and breath-synchronized movement. This variety of Hatha yoga emphasizes on the Sun Salutation, a series of 12 poses where movement is matched to the breath. It helps improve strength and flexibility, tones the abdominal muscles, and reduces the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes

Raja Yoga:

  • Raja is more meditative, focusing less on strength. Its objective is to further one’s acquaintance with reality, and achieve awakening, and eventually enlightenment

Ashtanga yoga:

  • Ashtanga is a form of yoga combines both the physical and cognitive elements. It’s fast-paced and intense with lunges and push-ups, and considered a form of power yoga. Great for relieving stress, improves coordination, and helps with weight loss.

Bikram:

  • Bikram, also known as hot yoga, is practiced in a 95 to 100 degree room. It’s typically a series of 26 poses that allows for a loosening of tight muscles and sweating. It speeds up recovery from an injury, enhances flexibility, and cleanses the body.

Kundalini and Tantra Yoga:

  • Kundalini and Tantra yoga focus on activating the energy centers of the body called chakras.

Hatha yoga positions:

Diamond sitting position:

  • This position may be used for meditation exercises, it also improves poor circulation in the feet and lower legs, stimulates digestion and combats tension and sleep problems.
  • Kneel on the floor with knees close together, slowly sit back on your heels.
  • Stretch your upper body erect and place your hands on your knees and close your eyes.
  • Holding the posture, slowly take several deep breaths in and out, focusing on the steady rise and fall of your abdomen.

Tree position

  • The tree position loosens shoulders and promotes balance.
  • Stand with feet slightly apart and facing forward.
  • Breathe in, place the flat of your right foot against your left inner thigh. Breathe naturally.
  • Slowly raise your arms over your head, palms together, and stretch them straight up.
  • Hold the stretch as you breathe in. As you breathe out, lower arms and leg. Repeat on the other side.

References:

  • The Complete Guide To Natural Healing
Note: Consult with a Physician or certified yoga instructor before trying the above exercises. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the activities listed above.

Thanks for stopping by!

Lisa

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Medicinal Monday – Nutmeg

Monday, August 5th, 2013

Nutmeg


Photo by yumievriwan

Nutmeg is indigenous to the Banda Islands in the Moluccas (or Spice Islands) of Indonesia and the tree can grow up to 66 feet tall.  The peach-shaped fruit is known as the nutmeg apple, which is discarded in favor of the aromatic seed inside. The fruit splits when ripe to expose a pecan sized nut wrapped in a bright red “netting” called an aril. The nut and aril are then separated and dried. The nut is nutmeg, the aril (which turns a yellow as it dries) yields the spice mace. Both spices have a long history of use in both Chinese and Indian medicine, nutmeg is more commonly used. Health benefits include; a calming effect, helps to lower blood pressure and soothes digestive upset. It can be mixed with a neutral oil (for use in a massage) to ease joint pain and inflammation.

Components:

  • Nutmeg is a fragrant spice.
  • Active ingredients in the essential oil are myristicin, elincin, camphene, geraniol and borneol.
  • It also contains fatty substances, starch, protein and some potassium and calcium.

A warming spice oil:

  • Nutmeg can be found as a whole nut, a ground powder and an essential oil.
  • Its healing properties act on both physical and psychological level.
  • Nutmeg oil strengthens the heart and circulation, stimulates digestion, warms the body and banishes fatigue.
  • For joint pain, add a blend of nutmeg, clove and rosemary essential oils to a diffuser.

Therapeutic Effect:

  • Regular use as a seasoning stimulates the cardiovascular system, promotes concentration, acts as an expectorant, reduces joint inflammation and helps the liver remove toxins.
  • It has a warming effect on the digestive system, reduces indigestion, nausea and vomiting and calms diarrhea.

Nutmeg for diarrhea and upset stomach:

  • Fast relief for diarrhea: dissolve 3 pinches of ground nutmeg in a glass of warm milk. Sip slowly.
  • For stomach upset, add a pinch of nutmeg to peppermint tea or sprinkle nutmeg over 1 tsp. of honey.

For joint inflammation:

  • Regular consumption can relieve joint pain and gout.
  • Put 5-6 drops on a sugar cube, or in 1 tsp of honey.
  • Add the sugar to a cup of warm milk and sip throughout the day.

For toothache:

  • place 1 drop of nutmeg oil on a cotton swab.
  • Apply to the gum area around the tooth.
  • Repeat several times a day.

Kitchen Hints:

  • Pre-packaged ground nutmeg can quickly lose its aroma. It’s best to buy whole nuts and use the fine side of a cheese grater to grind to a powder yourself. Do this shortly before using. Whole nuts keep indefinitely.
  • The nuts dipped in lime milk is a sign of high quality.
  • Nutmeg is an excellent seasoning for cooked vegetables, especially cauliflower, potatoes, spinach and winter squash.
  • It’s also an excellent addition to creamy white sauce, pasta fillings and meat dishes. A familiar flavor in pumpkin pie and eggnog.
  • Nutmeg loses its flavor when heated. Add freshly grated nutmeg toward the end of the cooking process.
  • Limit your alcohol intake when eating foods with a good amount of the spice, The effects of alcohol are intensified by nutmeg.
  • Nutmeg is often used in winter drinks, such as tea and hot apple cider. Sprinkle the spice over the hot drink, it adds flavor and helps soothe colds and bronchitis.
  • Nutmeg works well with cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, ginger and black pepper.

Nutmeg cookies:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 oz. candled lemon peel
  • 9 oz. ground almonds
  • 1-2 tsp. cornstarch
  • ¼ tsp. grated nutmeg
  • 1 small package graham crackers
  • Lemon cake frosting
  • 2-3 oz. chopped pistachios
  • Preheat the oven to 350 deg F
  • Beat the eggs and sugar until frothy
  • Chop the lemon peel. Stir the peel and almonds into the egg mixture. Add some cornstarch to thicken. Fold the nutmeg into the egg mixture.
  • Shape the dough into walnut sized balls and place each ball on a graham cracker.
  • Bake the cookies for 12-15 mins after they have cooled, spread frosting on them and sprinkle with pistachios

Warning:

  • The myristicin and elicin in nutmeg can be toxic in large doses. It may hallucinations or cause miscarriages.
  • Don’t use more than 2 tbsp. of ground spice or 10 drops of essential oil per day.

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!

Lisa

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Medicinal Monday – Herbs & Spices

Monday, November 26th, 2012

Dill


Photo by Fire Engine Red

Dill is a member of the Umbelliferae family, related to carrots and parsley. It is easily spotted in the garden due to the thread-like, feathery leaves. In ancient civilizations,  Dill was so valued that it was accepted as a means of payment. Today, the leaves and the seeds are highly regarded for both medicinal and culinary appeal. Dill’s essential oils found in the seeds make it a versatile naturopathic remedy, it’s great for stomach and intestinal problems, mild insomnia, nervous ailments, flatulence and heartburn. It is also widely prescribed for many diseases of the liver and gallbladder and may be recommended to treat gastric problems in children. In the kitchen, it is a flavorful addition to many dishes and excellent for accenting fish, poultry, potatoes, cucumbers and cheese.

Components

  • Dill leaves have vitamin C, folic acid, beta-carotene and potassium.
  • The seeds have iron and calcium which provides a mild dietary fiber.
  • The curative effect of the seeds is greater then that of the leaves, due to the fact the seeds contain more essential oils.
  • The flavor comes from the oils, with a similar taste to that of fennel, spicy and a little sweet.

Therapeutic effect

  • Dill’s essential oils help calm a nervous stomach, alleviate bloating, flatulence and some liver and gall bladder ailments.
  • A great cure for intestinal bacteria that can cause diarrhea.
  • A tea mad from dill seeds helps stimulate the milk in nursing mothers and can soothe colic in babies.
  • Be sure to eat dill in moderation, excess amounts can impede kidney functioning.

For hiccups
Dill has been used as a hiccup remedy. Hiccups are caused by involuntary contractions of the diaphragm muscle. A tea made from the seeds can relax the diaphragm.

  • Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 tsp. of dried dill leaves.
  • Cover the cup, let the tea steep about 10-15 min.
  • Sip slowly once the infusion is cool.

For insomnia

  • Pour boiling water over 1 teaspoon of crushed dill seed and 1 teaspoon of mixture herbs, steep and strain.
  • Drink right before bedtime.

Dill butter

  • 1 tsp. finely chopped dill leaves, 4 tsp. butter, lemon juice, salt, white pepper
  • In a small bowl, cream the dill and butter.
  • Add lemon juice to taste, season with salt and white pepper.
  • It’s excellent on bread or melt over vegetables.

To promote lactation

  • 2 oz. dried dill leaves, 2 oz. anise seeds, 2 oz. alfalfa, Honey
  • Mix all the herbs is a container. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 tsp. of the mixture, steep for 15 min.
  • Use honey to sweeten.
  • Drink 2-3 cups of per day.

To ease bloating
An infusion made from dill seeds is an effective remedy for bloating and stomach discomfort. It also helps promote bowel function and has a diuretic effect.

  • Combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of wine and 2 tsp. of crushed dill seeds.
  • Boil the mixture, and then let sit for 3 hours.
  • Drink up to 2 cups per day.
  • Store no longer than 2 days.

Kitchen hints

  • Store Freshly cut dill in perforated foil pouches in the freezer for up to 4 weeks. Dill completely retains its flavor and aroma when frozen.
  • Dried dill is often used to pickle cucumbers, cabbage and other vegetables. Use to flavor steamed vegetables.
  • Dill loses much of it’s flavor in drying, it must be used in greater quantities than when fresh.
  • Excellent for making vinegar. Pour 1 qt. of white wine over 2 oz. of fresh dill, let stand for 3-4 weeks.
  • Dill is great in mayonnaise Blend some mayonnaise with dill seeds or fresh dill, add a few drop of lemon juice, black pepper and a bit of mustard.
  • The leaves and seeds can prevent bloating. They are a great addition to a cabbage dish, the dill can prevent the bloating that cabbage causes.
Tip: Dill seeds are excellent breath fresher. The essential oils disinfect the mouth, which kills the bacteria. Chew on a small amount of seeds between meals.

References:

  • The Complete Guide to Naural 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!

Lisa

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Hump Day Herbal Magic – Rose

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Rose (Rosaceae)

Powers: Healing, Love Divination, Luck, Protection, Psychic Powers

ROSE buds and petals are a symbol of love, romance and sexual attraction, as well as to draw good fortune in matters of the heart. ROSE hips are symbols of overall luck. ROSE oil appears in many love formulas and in some for luck.


Photo by alfaneque

Deities: Aphrodite, Adonis, Aurora, Cupid, Demeter, Eros, Harpocrates, Hathor, Hulda, Isis, Venus

Element: Water (Dreams, Fidelity, Friendships, Healing, Love, Meditation, Prophetic Dreams, Purification, Sleep)

Gender: Feminine

Planet: Venus (Beauty, Fidelity, Friendships, Good Fortune, Love, Money, youth)

Magical and Ritual Uses:

  • Roses represent all aspects of the Goddess, and may be used in rituals to honor the Goddess or used when Drawing Down the Moon.
  • For Luck and Protection, rose hips can be used as bringers of good fortune. They can be dried and placed in a green conjure bag with PYRITE and a selection of other money-drawing herbs. They can also be placed in a red flannel bag with FLAX seeds for protection from harm.
  • The rose is also associated with Hand-fastings and rituals of union. They are often worn by the participants and guests, and are strewn to bring divine blessings to the couple’s love.
  • Rose petals bring luck in love affairs and remove any kind of love-jinxing. Scatter fresh or dried ROSE petals on your altar when burning candles and praying, this will increase sexual passion, bring back a lover, enhance marital happiness, or for aid in breaking a jinx in crossed love affairs.
  • To make a Love-Drawing mojo bag, keep a whole QUEEN ELIZABETH ROOT in a red conjure bag with ROSE petals, LAVENDER, RED CLOVER, DAMIANA, and CATNIP, and dress it with Love Me Oil.
  • Select any nine non-toxic love herbs, being sure to include ROSE PETALS, RED CLOVER, and CATNIP. Steep the herbs in hot water for nine minutes, as you pray.
  • A rosewater soaked clothe laid on the temple will help relieve headache pain.
  • Rose petals are said to attract Fairies, and are best when stolen.
  • Drink a tea of rosebuds before sleep to induce prophetic dreams.
  • Spread rose petals around the house to calm stress, or any problems that may have manifested in the home.
  • When consecrating jewelry, set with an emerald or empowering stone for magickal work, the emerald/stone should be dressed with rose oil.
  • Roses are often brought into sabbat rites, usually white for the Autumnal Equinox, yellow for Eostara, red for Midsummer and any color for Beltane!

References:

  • Catherine Yronwode: Hoodoo Herb and Root Magic
  • 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 fruit listed above.

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

Lisa

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Hump Day Herbal Magic – Quince

Wednesday, May 23rd, 2012

Quince (Cydonia Vulgaris)

Powers: Happiness, Love, Protection

Quince is a member of the genus Cydonia and native to Asia in the Caucasus region. It’s a small, deciduous tree, growing 5–8 m tall and 4–6 m wide. Related to apples and pears, and like them has a pome fruit. When mature, it is bright golden yellow and pear-shaped, ranging about 7–12 cm long and 6–9 cm broad.

Quince is sacred in many cultures, the Greeks believed it to be sacred to Aphrodite, and Pliny the Elder recorded that it warded off the evil eye. The Roman counterpart to Aphrodite, Venus, is often shown holding a quince, it is said, it was given to her by Paris to show his love. This association was later transferred, in some areas, to Mary, mother ofJesus. In Pompeii, the quince was often found in artwork and tile mosaics, and frequently shown in a bear’s paw. The oldest record of it’s religious use is with Hebrews. Grieves believed it sacred to these peoples and writes in A Modern Herbal that many ”consider that the Tappuach of Scripture, always translated apple, was the Quince. It is also supposed to be the fruit alluded to in the Canticles, ‘I sat down under his shadow with great delight and his fruit was sweet to my taste.’”


Photo by Public Domain Photos

Deities: Aphrodite, Venus

Element: Earth (Employment, Fertility, Healing, Money, Prosperity)

Gender: Feminine

Planet: Saturn (Endings, Exorcisms, Longevity, Visions)

Magical and Ritual Uses:

  • Carry seven Quince seeds in a flannel bag, hang around your wrist to protect from harm.
  • A desirable fruit to bring into a Handfasting, it has a history for blessing a union. It can be part of the feast and layered into the cake. The sprigs with flowers can be included in the ritual flowers. The sharing of the fruit before the Great Rite and removing the chord (once alone) would be appropriate to affirm the vows.
  • Use quince to repel negative energy from others. When a target of other’s negative energy, spread Quince on your morning muffin to keep their negation from manifesting in your life.
  • Quince is sacred to the bear to certain Romans. It you use a bear as your totem, keep a jar of quince preserves on hand.

Medicinal Uses:

  • Quince is good for weight loss, being rich in fiber.
  • It has antioxident properties, which helps the body fight free radicals and reduces the risk of cancer.
  • It has been found, Quince is helpful to those suffering from gastric ulcer.
  • Aids in digestion and helps lower cholesterol.
  • The potassium in Quince helps maintain blood pressure.
  • The presence of Vitamin C reduces the risk of heart disease.
  • It is said it is beneficial for those suffering from tuberculosis,  hepatic insufficiency, diarrhea and dysentery.
  • It is also beneficial to those suffering from liver diseases and eye diseases, if consumed on a regular basis.

References:

  • Catherine Yronwode: Hoodoo Herb and Root Magic
  • 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 fruit listed above.

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

Lisa

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Medicinal Monday – Herbs & Spices

Monday, May 7th, 2012

Borage

Botanical Name: Borago Officinalis


Photo by madlyinlovewithlife

In the late Middle Ages, Physicians recommended Borage; they believed it supplied courage, confidence, cheerfulness and restoring life. Today, we know that it stimulates the production of adrenaline, which prepares the body to handle stress (the medieval beliefs were well founded). Other names for Borage: “good cheer”, “dear friend” and “sparkling eyes”. This reflects borage’s ability to brighten the mood. Rich in a polyunsaturated fatty acid, Borage seed oil is used to address metabolic problems from obesity to premenstrual complaints. It also promotes lactation, helps break a fever by inducing a sweat and breaks up phlegm while easing sore throats and coughs.

Help for viral infections:

  • A Borage and Echinacea tea have a calming effect.
  • Reduces fever and induces sweating.
  • Helps combat measles, mumps, chicken pox, colds and flus.
  • Mix equal amounts of fresh borage leaves and powdered Echinacea root. Brew in hot water, steep for 10 min. and sweeten with honey. Drink 1 cup 3 times per day.

Therapeutic Effect:

  • Borage leaves are diuretic, it increase sweat and urine.
  • It acts as an adrenal stimulant, useful for countering stress and lingering effects of steroid therapy.
  • Tea made from Borage soothes sore throats and irritated coughs.

Components:

  • The seed oil contains gamma linoleic acid. Found primarily in vegetable oils and used as a dietary supplement for treating problems with inflammation and auto-immune diseases.
  • The acid is used to to treat metabolic disturbances, including obesity, premenstrual syndrome, eczema, high blood pressure and alcoholism.
  • Recent evidence suggests Borage may be useful for treating heart disease and cancer.
  • The leaves are a good source of vitamin C, organic calcium and potassium, essential oils, tannins and mucilages. It’s also has saponins that strengthen resistance and flavonoids that prevent infection.
  • The silicic acid in Borage stimulates hormone production and balances mood swings.

For lactation:

  • A Borage tea will help promote healthy milk flow while you’re nursing.
  • Add a generous handful of fresh Borage leaves to ½ gal. of lemonade, or to the same amount of a mild hot tea, which ever flavor you enjoy – chamomile, fennel, nettle and violet blossoms are Excellent choices.
  • Let steep for at least 20 minutes, then strain through a paper filter. Drink a cup 3-4 times a day for best results.

From your garden

  • Borage is hard to find commercially. If you plan to make it a regular part of your diet, plant it in your garden. It attracts honeybees, ensuring pollination of other plants.
  • Plant the herb in sandy soil in which water drains rapidly. Sow in mid-or late spring, in full sun or partial shade, and again in early and midsummer.
  • Borage is an annual, it will die at the end of the season, but self sown seedlings germinate for replacement plants.
  • For medicinal use, the leaves are best gathered before the flower buds appear. The plant is easily bruised, so handle gently and use right away. The young leaves have a prickly texture that are edible.

Kitchen Hints

  • Preserve Borage in vinegar or in an alcohol tincture. It does not dry or freeze well.
  • Capture the flavor of Borage over the long term by making a blue vinegar from the blossoms or an emerald green vinegar from the leaves. These vinegars make wonderful gifts in decorative bottles.
  • “Cucumber herb” is another name for borage, and complement plain and pickled cucumbers. It adds flavor to salads, soups and summer stews. Try with eggs and fish.
  • The pretty blue blossoms are also edible. Remove the green sepals on the undersides before using, then sprinkle the flowers over soups and salads.
  • Freeze the flowers in ice for a garnish for punches and other summer drinks.
  • For cooking, use young leaves that are no larger than a half dollar. For teas, the bigger leaves are fine.
  • Borage is an essential ingredient to many Italian dishes. Borage risotto is very popular, as is ravioli stuffed with borage.
  • To enhance the flavor of dishes, sprinkle Borage leaves or stir them in before serving. It loses much of it’s flavor and aroma, once cooked.

Tip: Cut borage leaves into thin strips and mix into strawberry punch. Strain the punch through a paper filter before serving.

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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Hump Day Herbs – Garlic

Wednesday, March 30th, 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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Hump Day Herbs – Fennel

Wednesday, March 16th, 2011

FENNEL

Botanical Name: Foeniculum vulgare

Folk Names: Samar, Sheeh, Sweet Fennel

Fennel is a Perennial herb from the Apiaceae family. Native to the Mediterranean and Southern Europe, it grows to the height of 2-6 feet.

Fennel was hung above doorways and on rafters in order to ward off  evil in the Middle Ages. The seeds were placed inside keyholes to prevent ghosts from entering the house. In 470 b.c. the Greeks defeated the Persians at Marathon. They fought on a field of fennel and this led to the belief that fennel inspired courage and strength. Greek and Roman soldiers chewed fennel seeds before entering battle.

Deities: Dionysus, Prometheus

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

Gender: Masculine

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

Powers: Healing, Protection, Purification

Medicinal uses: All parts of the Fennel plant are used. Fennel is known to relieve digestive problems, increases lactation, relax spasms and reduce inflammation with expectorant, carminative and aromatic properties. Sweet Fennel oil is used in aromatherapy (it contains anethole, fenchon, limonene and a-pinene, while the seeds contain various flavonoids and furanocoumarins ).

Magical Uses: Hang over doors and windows with St. John’s Wort to repel evil spirits. Grow around the house, scent soaps and perfumes to ward off negativity and evil.

Ritual Uses: Use in spells and sachets for protection, healing, and purification. The oil can be used to enhance personal courage and strength, as well as love.

Other Uses: Syrup from fennel juice was given for chronic coughs. It is known to drive away fleas, powdered fennel has been used in kennels and stables.

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

During the Middle Ages, fennel was hung above doorways and on rafters in order to ward off the devil. Fennel seeds were also placed inside keyholes in order to prevent ghosts from entering the house; In 470 b.c. the Greeks defeated the Persians at Marathon. They fought on a field of fennel and this led to the belief that fennel inspired courage and strength. Greek and Roman soldiers chewed fennel seeds before entering battle.

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Hump Day Herbs – Echinacea

Wednesday, March 9th, 2011

ECHINACEA

Botanical Name: Echinacea Augustifolia

Folk Names: Black Sampson, Coneflower, Rudbeckia

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.

Deities: Athena, Venus, Cerridwen

Element: Earth (Employment, Fertility, Healing, Money, Prosperity)

Gender: Male

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

Powers: Healing, Strengthening Spells

Medicianl Uses: Studies suggest that Echinacea contains active substances that enhance the activity of the immune system, relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and have hormonal, antiviral, and antioxidant effects. Professional herbalists may recommend Echinacea to treat urinary tract infections, vaginal yeast infections, ear infections, athlete’s foot, sinusitis, hay fever, as well as slow-healing wounds.

Magical Uses: Echinacea is often used to strengthen the power of spells. It was also used by the Native Americans not only to strengthen their spells, but as an offering to spirits.

Ritiual Uses: Echinacea can be used to strengthen the power of charms, blends or sachets and burned as incense. It’ s also an excellent root to use in money magic.

Other Uses: It has been used as a general immune system enhancer, as well as treating various ailments (poisonous insect and snake bites, toothaches, mumps, small pox, blood purifier, measles). Research has shown that taking Echinacea at the first sign of a cold can decrease the duration and intensity.

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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