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Eyebright

Sun, 01/06/2008 - 22:49 — kitchenwitch
Botanical Name:

Euphrasia officinalis

Zones:
hardy to zone 6

Eyebright is an annual that is common to dry fields and pasture lands in its native Britain and also in the US where it has become naturalized.

Propagation:

Eyebright prefers alkoline soil and does not do well in perfect well-tended beds. It prefers to grow weedlike in the shadow of other plants. It doesn't transplant well, so scatter the seeds randomly among your other plants in your herb garden. It is notoriously difficult to grow in the garden and prefers to the wild grasslands. You could try growing it in your lawn if you have a section you won't be mowing. Good luck!

Eyebright is best harvested in late summer when it is in full bloom. Cut the full herb and hang upside down to dry. Use within one year. The leaves and flowers are all used together.

History and Folklore:

The name Euphrasia is taken from the name of one of the three Greek Graces, Euphrosyne, meaning gladness. According to legend, the linnet, a bird whose Greek name comes from the same root, first used this plant to clear the sight of its young and then passed the knowledge on to mankind.

Spenser, Milton and other poets mention Eyebright in their poems.

In the time of Queen Elizabeth, Eyebright Ale was a beverage believed to cheer the spirit.

Harvesting & Storage:
Household Use:

Eyebright is an ingredient in British Herbal Tobacco and makes a decent smoke.

Magical Attributes:

Eyebright is of masculine nature and associated with the element of air, the sun, and Leo. It is named after one of the three Graces of the Greek Pantheon, Euphrosyne, Goddess of Joy and Mirth. It is also associated with the Tower Tarot card.

Place a few drops of infusioni of eyebright on your eyelids before sleeping to have prophetic dreams and during the day to see that which is normally unseen.

Use in spells to help you (or others) see situations clearly and objectively, to avoid or remove deception and metaphorical cloudiness.

Use also in spells to help rise above difficult situations and to see the silver lining on dark clouds.

Appropriate for all rituals and celebrations of thanksgiving and any rituali associated with the Graces or any joyous event, especially one that marks the end of one era and the beginning of another.

It is appropriate for offerings of thankgiving.

Healing Attributes:

Eyebright, as its name implies, is traditionally used for just about any ailment of the eye. An infusioni of one ounce of herb per pint of water is an excellent all-purpose eyewash good for removing dust, debris and relieving irritation caused by allergies and mild conjunctivitis. Just put it in an eyewash cup and perform the eyewash as you would normally. (Read the directions that came with the cup)

For external eye irritations and inflammations, and to reduce general puffiness and dark circles, make the infusion with milk instead of water and apply to the eyelids and surrounding area with a cotton ball.

Eyebright can also be smoked to help relieve chronic bronchial inflammation.

Eyebright tea may be drunk as needed for general allergy symptoms, dry coughs and sinus infections. This is also said to enhance memory function.

Dimming of eyesight can result from prolonged us, or use of strong concentrations of eyebright.

None of the traditional uses of eyebright have ever been officially studied.

Because the safety of eyebright's use during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established, it is best avoided during these times.

Infusioni of eyebright is a must-have for your herbal first aid kit.

Culinary Use:

Eyebright can be added to teas.

Practical Kitchen Witchery:

Crocus

Sun, 01/06/2008 - 20:51 — DawnBlack
Botanical Name:

Crocus spp.

Zones:
Most
Other Names:
Spring blooming crocus, spring crocus, early crocus, snow crocus, autumn crocus, saffron crocus

Crocus are members of the iris family native to Central and Eastern Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia and western China.

Propagation:

Most crocuses like full sun and well drained soil, though there is quite a bit of variation between species. Be sure to do your research for the specific species you have.

Crocuses grow from corms, which are planted in autumn about 2-3 inches deep. They will pop up from beneath the snow like daisies (why do they say pop up like daisies- they don't pop. Crocuses do!) in the early spring. They can be killed by a late frost though.

Squirrels like to eat crocus corms.

In areas colder than zone 6, autumn crocuses may not do well in cold winters. After the first couple of frosts, but before winter has really set in, they should be dug up and stored covered with sand or peat moss in a cool dry place, about 50 degrees until after the danger of frost has passed in the spring.

After about 4 to 6 years, your crocuses will need to be divided. Do this by digging up the corms right after the foliage has faded and replanting them right away or storing them in a box of sand or peat moss until autumn planting time.

History and Folklore:

The name crocus is krokos in Greek, karkom in Hebrew, kurkama in Aramaic, and kurkum in Arabic and Persion. It means yellow, presumably referring to the saffron spice obtained from the autumn saffron crocus although this flower is actually purple! Saffron is an extremely expensive ingredient made from the sexual organs of Crocus sativa that also produces a fabulous yellow dye.

Although many of our garden crocuses are "Dutch", they are not native to the Netherlands but were first brought there by an ambassador from the Holy Roman Empire.

Homer referred often to the Goddess Eos as saffron-robed.

Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world. Some sites claim that saffron is $200-300 per ounce. I've seen it at $90 an ounce, but this may not have been the good stuff. It was used to dye the robes of royalty and was once a symbol of status and wealth.

Harvesting & Storage:

You can pick any crocus and put it in a vase to bring its beauty into the house.

Crocus sativa is an autumn blooming crocus that provides saffron. The finest saffron is made from the stigmas. The next finest grade is fram the stamens. The petals can be eaten as a vegetable. Harvest the stigmas and stamens (there are 3 of each, if there aren't, you've got the wrong flower) on a sunny day when the flowers are fully open. You can pick the whole flower, or simply pluck out the parts you want with your fingers or a pair of tweezers.

Lay your stigmas flat on a bit of waxed paper in a warm place to dry and store in an air tight container.

Household Use:

Saffron can be used to make a fabulous bright yellow dye, paint or ink. You need to use a mordant such as alum to make the saffron colorfast or the color will be gone the first time you use it. It can also be used to color eggs. Use vinegar in the water to set the color.
I will experiment more with this and get back to you.
Next year, after my saffron has grown.
If I don't kill it.

Magical Attributes:

Spring crocus is associated with Venus, Eos and Aphrodite, water and Mercury and Venus.

Saffron is associated with Eos and with Venus and Aphrodite. It is also associated with the Sun and mars, Leo and fire. For centuries, saffron has been associated with wealth, power and rarity. This makes it an excellent offering for any deity and is a traditional ingredient in crescent moon cakes made in honor of the Phoenician Goddess Ashtoreth.

It is also useful in spells aimed toward wealth and recognition, to bring strength. It can also be infused into holy wateri and burned in censors for various rituals.

It is also proported to be an aphrodesiac. Hot date? Two words. Indian food.

An infusioni of saffron is also said to help enhance psychic abilities.

Rinsing bedlinens in an infusion of saffron (or possibly a whole crocus) is said to help bring strength to the body while one sleeps.

Spring crocus is a traditional decoration for early spring festivals such as Imbolc and Ostara. It is also useful for all spells related to new beginnings.

Any crocus (autumn, spring, whatever) can be used in spells for love, friendship, settling disputes, peace and divinationi.

Healing Attributes:

Saffron has been used for treating a variety of illnesses including measles, bladder, kidney and liver disorders and diabetes. Modern studies show that it may be useful in treating cancer by helping to fight tumers and easing the discomfort associated with chemotherapy. It has also been used to treat recovering alcoholics and is said to help repair damage done to the brain by alcoholism. An infusioni of saffron is said to help relieve depression.

Culinary Use:

Stigmas gathered from Crocus sativa (and only this one, no other species!) is a common flavoring in many ethnic dishes. The red-orange threads should be soaked for 20 minutes in whatever liquid you are using for your recipe and then added early in the cooking process.

Saffron is especially good with rice and is a traditional ingredient in many rice dishes.

Practical Kitchen Witchery:

You only need to use a few threads of saffron for cooking. Its flavor is not strong, but it doesn't get stronger if you use more, it just wastes money.

Be sure if you are eating a crocus (petals, stamen, stigmas) that you are eating Crocus sativa. It will have six petals, three bright orangish red stigmas and three similarly colored stamen and 6-9 grasslike leaves. The petals will be violet in color, darker at the throat and somewhat vieny.

Chamomile

Sun, 01/06/2008 - 19:53 — kitchenwitch
Botanical Name:

Chamaemilum nobile and Matricaria recutita

Zones:
4-9
Other Names:
(German Chamomile) Wild Chamomile, Scented Mayweed, Hungarian Chamomile, (Roman Chamomile) Garden Chamomile, Ground Chamomile, Low Chamomile, Whig Plant, English Chamomile

Chamaemilum nobile- Roman Chamomile

Propagation:

Roman chamomile is usually propagated by division.
German chamomile is usually grown from seed. Sow directly into soil in the spring. It will reseed itself each year if you allow the heads to go to seed.

Chamomile prefers sandy, slightly acidic soil and direct sunlight, but likes a bit of shade if it gets too hot on a regular basis.

History and Folklore:

The word Chamomile comes from the Greek meaning "ground apple", probably because of its apple-like fragrance.

The Romans used Chamomile for incense. Roman Chamomile gained its name, not from ancient Rome, but because a 19th century plant collector found some growing on the ruins of the coliseum in Rome.

Chamomile was used in ancient Egypt for fevers and was dedicated to their Sun God Ra.

To the Anglo Saxons, it was one of the nine sacred herbs.

Harvesting & Storage:

Cut flower tops as they form and hang or spread on cloth to dry.

Household Use:

Chamomile added to the bath is very relaxing. It is especially good for fretful babies.

Chamomile tea is an excellent rinse for brightening blonde hair.

The dried flowers are excellent in potpourri.

Infuse chamomile flowers in milk for a soothing skin cleanser that both fights acne and moisturizes. Use within one week.

Chamomile planted near sick or delicate plants will help them return to or maintain their health.

Water young plants with chamomile tea to prevent "damping off".

Magical Attributes:

Chamomile is associated with the Sun, Leo and the element of Water. It helps cleanse and invigorate the throat chakra (5th). It is associated with various sun Gods, including Ra, Cernunnos, Lugh and others.

It is used in spells for money, peace, love, tranquility and purification.

An infusioni used to wash thresholds (doors and windows) will help keep unwanted energies or entities from passing through. Sprinkle powdered chamomile flowers around your self or home to remove spells cast against you and to prevent fires and lightening strikes. You may also use herbal water, if you prefer.

Use it in a rituali bath before performing spells for any of these purposes. Just a simple chamomile bath while visualizing will increase your attractiveness to the opposite sex. Also, use it in a bath as part of a spelli to release a loved one, or to release feelings of pain, loss or anger.

Washing your hands in chamomile water before gambling will increase your luck.

Add to sachets for luck or money. Or place pressed chamomile flowers in your wallet to attract money to it.

Use in meditationi incense.

Healing Attributes:

German chamomile is most often used in healing in the US, but Roman chamomile works as well.

It relaxes the body and mind and promotes a good night's sleep. It's safe enough to use for children. Also for teething stress and colic. Scientific studies have shown that it acts like leading anti anxiety medications, check with your doctor if you plan to use it this way. For nerves and insomnia, drink warm at bedtime. Can mix with warm milk and honey.

It is also a gentle muscle relaxant, anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory. It can be used, especially in combination with similar herbs, to sooth problems associated with muscle cramps and spasms. Especially useful for menstrual cramps. Drink two or three cups of tea per day.

It aids in digestion and sooths gastric complaints and colitis including irritable bowel problems. It also safely relieves morning sickness and restlessness that comes with pregnancy. For stomach problems, including gastritis, colitis and morning sickness, drink a cup of tea an empty stomach first thing in the morning hot or cold.

When used topically, it speeds the healing of cuts, scrapes, blisters and burns. It is also helpful for rashes, eczema and other skin inflammation. Add it to a salve, rinse the affected area with chamomile tea, or add a few drops of essential oil to bathwater.

Do not use ointments for burns, use compresses or light lotions instead. Oils hold in body heat and don't let the burns heal.

A chamomile tea bag makes a good compress. Chill or use warm.

Eye inflammations can be treated by placing a cool compress soaked in chamomile tea over the eyes.

Chamomile mouthwash helps keep gums healthy and soothes mouth inflammations.

Chamomile Teai- 2 teaspoons German Chamomile flowers to 1 mug of boiling water. Cover and steep five minutes.

Chamomile may cause allergic reactions in those allergic to ragweed.

Chamomile should not be used by people who are already using blood thinners because some constituents may have anticoagulant action.

Culinary Use:

Roman chamomile is most often used in cooking.

The fresh leaves are good mixed with butter or sour cream for potatoes.

In Spain it is used to flavor Mantazilla, a light sherry.

Chamomile flowers were used in Anglo Saxon Europe for making beer until they started using hops.

Practical Kitchen Witchery:

Bay Laurel

Sat, 01/05/2008 - 21:03 — DawnBlack
Botanical Name:

Laurus nobilis

Zones:
Southern

Bay is an evergreen shrub (often referred to as a small tree) native to Asia Minor and areas around the Mediterranean.

Propagation:

Bay laurel requires mild climates and will only grow well outside year round in zones 8-10. It does make an attractive container plant, however, and doesn't get too big. Folklore says that growing bay laurel as a houseplant will protect your home from lightening strikes and disease. It must have 4 hours of direct sunlight a day and be kept relatively cool. The soil should be rich and well-drained and allowed to dry out between watering, but should receive a little extra water in the springtime. Bugs don't seem to bother this plant too much. It makes an excellent hedge and responds well to pruning.

The plant can be propagated easily from cuttings.

History and Folklore:

The world laurel comes from the Celtic lawr, meaning "verdant" and nobilis from the latin meaning "noble" or of high rank.

The Greek word for Bay is dhafni, after the nymph Daphne who was changed into a bay laurel tree by Gaea (or her father Peneus, or herself, depending on who's telling the story) to protect her from the unwanted advances of Apollo. The tree is sacred to Apollo and it is said that the Oracle at Delphi chewed the leaves and inhaled the smoke when seeking visions. It is also associated with honor and glory and kings, heroes, triumphant athletes, poets and other great men and women were crowned with it to signify their greatness in both ancient Greece and Rome. Garlands of bay laurel were traditionally bestowed upon the winners of the Pythian games in Greece and later the Olympic games (prior to the change, olive leaves were used).

Today, grand prix winners are given wreathes of laurel. The world laureate as in poet laureate and baccalaureate (lit "laurel berry") are additional reminders of the high status of this tree.

Laurel wreaths were worn for their protective properties. They were believed to protect against the anger of sky Gods and the Emperor Tiberius always wore laurel during thunderstorms to prevent his being struck by lightening. Doctors also wore laurel as it was considered helpful in curing nearly everything.

Harvesting & Storage:

Harvest the leaves as needed. This is one herb that's better dried than fresh, as the fresh leaves are much more bitter. They may be pressed to dry, like you would press flowers. Properly dried leaves are bright olive green. Store them in darkness in an airtight container. Throw them out after two years, or when they turn brown, whichever comes first.

Household Use:

Bay leaf is very aromatic and holds it shape and fragrance well when dried making it a nice addition to many potpourris, wreaths and other herbal crafts. It blends well in aromatherapy combinations with bergamot, cederwood, lemon, rosemary, and patchouli.

It can also be added to sachets to keep moths out of your closets. A bay leaf dropped in a bag of flour may also help keep bugs out of that.

It is also a useful addition to shampoos and is recommended for hair loss, dandruff and greasy hair.

Magical Attributes:

Laurel is sacred to Apollo and should decorate any altar to him. Its spicy fragrance, and association with the sun makes it appropriate for any festival of the sun. Bay laurel is also associated with Aesclepius, Ceres, Zeus, Fides, Hermes and Cerridwen. It is considered masculine, and is ruled by Leo, the Sun and the element of Fire.

Bay leaves can be used to sprinkle water during any rituali, a branch of many leaves may be used in a group situation. Dip the branch in the water and wave it toward the group, spraying them with water three times.

Bay leaves may be added to any spelli or potion designed to enhance psychic ability and is a great addition to a psychic dream pillow.

Laurel wreaths may be worn by healers during healing ceremonies and while treating the sick in order to increase the positive healing energy and protect against negative energy that may be hanging around the sick room. Bay leaf can also be burned in the sick room after the illness has passed to purify it and drive out any residual sickness vibes.

It is exceptionally useful as a smudge during banishing and exorcism rites, especially those involving poltergeists. Mixed with sandlewood, it is useful for breaking curses.

When you finally get rid of that roommate, ex-spouse or family member who you thought would never move, smudge the house with bay to ensure they won't return. Even if you aren't really happy about them going, if you know it's best for everyone, cleanse the home of their presence for closure.

Bay laurel may be carried to protect against any number of misfortunes and to bring luck in athletic competitions.

To ensure that you will see your lover again, and neither of you will be tempted to infidelity, go together to a bay laurel tree and pluck a leaf, break it in half and each keep one half.

Write a wish on a dried bay leaf and then burn it and your wish will come true.

Healing Attributes:

Bay laurel has verified bactericidal and fungicidal properties.

The essential oil can be added to massage oils for arthritis and muscle aches and pains. It can also be added to salves for bruises, itching and other mild skin irritations.

A poultice of the leaves and berries, simmered till soft, can be placed on the chest to relieve head and chest colds.

A tea made of the leaves and/or berries aids in digestion, helps to rid the body of impurities and makes a good general health tonic. It is particularly helpful to women who are having trouble urinating after childbirth. Pregnant women, however, should not use bay laurel beyond the little bit we might use in cooking.

Teai can also be used to calm nerves.

Adding bay laurel to your bath tea aids with vaginal infections, perineal healing after childbirth and urinary tract infections.

Never never ever use the essential oil internally.

Culinary Use:

Bay leaf is a popular culinary herb. It is slightly bitter and strongly aromatic. It shouldn't be eaten whole, however, as the leaf has sharp edges that can cut your mouth. Instead, add it to soups, stews, roasts, sauces and other dishes that simmer for awhile and remove it just before serving or add to a bouquet garni. This allows the flavor to infuse into to the dish. For a stronger flavor, the leaf can be crushed and added to dishes. It also makes a good pickling spice.

Laurel berries have a robust flavor all their own and can be used to flavor meats and sauces.

While most herbs should be added at the end of cooking for the best effect, bay imparts the best flavor when simmered for a long time. The leave should be removed before serving.

Practical Kitchen Witchery:

There are many plants that are called laurel or bay that are not. The California bay tree Umbellularia californica is not the same plant, but has a similar flavor and can be used just like common bay laurel in many cases. It is also called California laurel, Oregon myrtle or pepperwood. Indian bay leaf Cinnamomum tejpata looks quite similar, but tastes more like cinnamon. West Indian Bay leaf is allspice.

Some similarly named plants are poisonous and should not be used under any circumstances. Mountain laurel, Kalmia latifolia, is one of these.

Always check the botanical name of any plant you use and never use one you aren't absolutely sure isn't exactly what you want.

St John's Wort

Sat, 12/29/2007 - 12:07 — kitchenwitch
Botanical Name:

Hypericum perforatum

Zones:
5-9
Other Names:
Saint John's Wort, St Joan's Wort

This is a bushy little perennial and very winter hardy. It grows to about one to three feet tall. Leaves are small, stalkless, opposite and pale bluish green growing up long brown stems.

Propagation:

Propagate by runners in the autumn or by seeds in the spring.

Average soil, partial to full sun.

Plants will need to be replaced after 5 years or so, but will spread if not checked. It is a very vigorous grower, spreading by both seeds and runners and should be kept in a pot or raised bed.

History and Folklore:

St. John's Wort has been used in medicine for over 2.400 years. It was used in ancient Greece and prescribed by Hippocrates and others for insanity, among other problems. It was also used in the Crusades to treat battle wounds.

It is associated with St. John the Baptist. It was gathered on St. John's Day and soaked in olive oil to create an anointing oili called the "Blood of Christ". It is said that the red sap "bleeds" in August on the day when St. John was beheaded.

There is much folklore about this plant.

The ancient name Fuga Daemonum (Scare Devil) and the Latin name Hypericum ("over" + "apparition") attests to its usefulness in driving away evil spirits. The latter may also refer to the fact that it was hung over religious icons. It was hung in the home, and carried as a talismani. It was also used to protect from lightening strikes.

On legend says that if you step on a St. John's Wort plant, you will be stolen away by a faerie horse.

St. John's Wort was also used for divinationi of romance and longevity. St. John's Wort was hung over the beds of the members of a household. The sprig that was most wilted indicated who would die the soonest. Keeping a sprig under your pillow is said to grant you a vision of St. John, who will promise that you will live another year. If no such vision comes, however...expect you will soon die.

Alli of these should, of course, be done on Midsummer or St. John's Eve.

It is traditionally burned in the Midsummer Fires. Flowers brought into the house on Midsummer Day are said to protect the household from a myriad misfortunes, including invasion by evil spirits, the evil eye, illness and fire.

Harvesting & Storage:

It is traditionally harvested on St. John's Day (June 24th) or Midsummer's day, early in the day after the dew has dried. Harvest soon after flowering.

Otherwise, harvest flowers and leaves as needed.

Household Use:

Flowers are used to produce a yellow dye. Stem produces a red dye.

In the garden St. John's Wort attracts bees. It does not produce nector so few adult butterflies are attracted to it. The Grey Hairstreak butterfly's larvae feeds on its seeds and the the Gray Half-Spot moth's larvae feeds on its foliage, so it may still be a useful addition to a butterfly garden.

The flowered stems are great for weaving into wreathes.

Magical Attributes:

St. John's Wort is linked with the Sun and Leo, Midsummer's Day, or St. John's Day.

St. John's Wort can be added to the fires for Midsummer celebrations and used to make garlands. The infused oil might be useful for an anointing oili for Midsummer rituals and exorcism. It's bloody red color also lends it well to death and rebirth rituals and celebrations of women's mysteries.

It can also be used for smudgingi during rituals of exorcism, especially of poltergeists.

Healing Attributes:

The most popular use of St. John's Wort medicinally is for depression. Studies of various constituents of this herb suggest that there is indeed something to the claim of its effectiveness against mild depression. It does not seem to be at all effective against severe depression.

St. John's Wort tea is also used for rheumatism, neuralgia, sciatica, shingles and symptoms of menopause. It is also a soothing muscle relaxer for when you overdo it (not for chronic problems).

The oil rubbed into joints may ease rheumatism. It is also used for minor wounds, burns and to help fade scars.

Infuse olive oil for topical use by stuffing a wide-mouthed jar with herb, then covering with olive oil and sealing. Place in a sunny window and shake a few times a day for six weeks. It will be bright red when done.

Culinary Use:

Makes a pleasant, slightly bitter tea.

Practical Kitchen Witchery:

St John's Wort can render birth control pills and similar forms of contraception useless. Do not rely on these methods of birth control if you are using St. John's Wort!

St. John's Wort should also not be taken by patients using Indinavir, a drug often given to AIDS patients, Cyclosporin, an immunosuppressive drug given to transplant patients, and Warfarin, an anticoagulant.

Side affects of St. John's Wort may include dizziness, dry mouth, fatigue, gastrointestinal discomfort, skin rash and photosensitivity. When using St. John's Wort, take extra care with sun protection.

If you are using St. John's Wort for depression, it is prudent to also seek therapy. Do not combine it with pharmaceutical anti- depressants.

Women who are pregnant or breast feeding should not use St. John's Wort as it may cause miscarriage and side affects for nursing infants are unpredictable.

Rosemary

Fri, 12/14/2007 - 22:50 — DawnBlack
Botanical Name:

Rosmarinus officinalis

Zones:
9-10
Other Names:
Polar Plant, Compass-weed, Compass Plant, Rosmarinus coronarium, Incensier

An evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean, rosemary has spruce-like leaves which are green on the top and whitish beneath.

Propagation:

Rosemary may be propagated by cuttings taken in early summer from a non-flowering branch.
Alternatively, rosemary can be cultivated from seed.
Choose a sheltered spot with full sun and well-drained soil. Rosemary tolerates clipping well and can be easily pruned into a pleasing shape. If there is ever a danger of freezing, the plant should be brought indoors until the danger has passed.

The leaves can be plucked, or the branches cut at any time. Rosemary likes regular pruning.

Rosemary is a good companion plant for cabbage, beans, sage and carrots. It helps to keep away moths, bean beetles and carrot flies.

History and Folklore:

The word Rosmarinus is from the Latin meaning "dew of the sea".

Christian folklore says that rosemary will grow for 33 years, until it reaches the height Christ was when he died, and then it will grow no more. Apparently, Rosemary's flowers picked up their blue color and acquired their fragrance when Mary spread her blue cloak over a rosemary bush to dry while they were on their way fleeing to Egypt. I seem to remember a similar tale about Aphrodite, but I can't seem to find another reference to it.

Rosemary was used to ward off evil spirits and nightmares. The wood was used to make musical instruments.

Rosemary branches were often woven into wreaths worn by brides at weddings and decorated rosemary branches were presented as gifts to wedding guests. In Wales, it was distributed to funeral guests to throw into the hole as the coffin was lowered.
Rosemary was also given as a gift for New Years', along with an orange, stuck with cloves and it was used with holly and mistletoe to decorate for Yule.

An old saying says "Where Rosemary flourishes, the Woman rules" and in England it was believed that rosemary could not grow in the garden of the home unless the mistress was the master.

In France, Rosemary was burnt, along with Juniper berries in sick rooms and hospitals to purify the air.

During the Middle Ages, it was hung around the neck to protect from the plague. Carrying a twig protected from the evil eye.

Rosemary is believed to attract faerie and good energies. Rosemary in twigs hung over cradles prevented faeries from stealing infants.

A man who is indifferent to the fragrance of rosemary is unable to give true love to a woman and those who smell rosemary frequently will retain their youth.
It was an embalming herb and sacred in Egypt. It was also a sacred herb to the Greeks.

Harvesting & Storage:

Use fresh or hang to dry in bunches still on the branch. Dried rosemary should be added early in the cooking so the flavors can infuse the dish.

Rosemary also makes good oils and vinegars.

Household Use:

Rosemary branches are wonderfully easy to work into wreathes when fresh and hold their fragrance and color well when dry.

Sprigs of Rosemary can be placed in your dresser drawers to protect your clothes from moths.

Magical Attributes:

Rosemary is male in nature and ruled by Leo, the element fire and the Sun (or Moon, depending who you ask)

It's sacred to Hebe and the Virgin Mary.

Rosemary can be used in spells for fidelity and remembrance as well as to dispel jealousy.

Rosemary is useful for rituali baths, and for making sacred herbal water for ritual cleansingi, blessing and purification.

Use rosemary in spells to enhance memory, including those spells for success in school and for remembering past lives. Also use for spells to retain youth.
Place rosemary under your pillow to help you to remember your dreams and to keep away nightmares and unwanted nighttime visitations.

Rosemary may be used in hand fasting ceremonies in a variety of ways.

Burn rosemary and juniper together to aid with healing, and to smudge a sickroom to drive out the negativity associated with disease.

Wear Rosemary oil on those occasions that you want to make a lasting impression.

Healing Attributes:

An infusioni of rosemary makes an excellent hair rinse, gradually covering gray hair, and adding strength and shine to any color hair. It also helps reduce dandruff and stimulate hair growth. Rosemary oil rubbed into the ends of hair will also help reduce split ends.

Rosemary oil massaged into the scalp is believed to prevent baldness and stimulate hair growth.

Massaging the body with rosemary oil will increase circulation, relieve aches and pains and warm the limbs.

Used as a toner, rosemary will help bring blood to the surface of the skin and acts as an antiseptic and astringent.

Cautions

Rosemary should not be taken in large doses. Rosemary should not be used medicinally by pregnant women, but it is okay for them to use it as a food seasoning.

Culinary Use:

Rosemary is excellent with chicken, lamb and vegetables. It is especially good with potatoes. Dried rosemary should be added early in the cooking.

Practical Kitchen Witchery:

Scientific evidence suggests that rosemary does in fact stimulate the memory centers of the brain. So use a sprig of rosemary as a bookmarker and wear rosemary oil when studying and on test day to help you remember what you need to know.

Give a dear friend a rosemary bush, or a rosemary wreath as a parting gift, as a symbolic promise that you will never forget him, or her.

As a symbol of fidelity, a rosemary bush, or crafts made of rosemary are suitable wedding gifts.

Keep some Rosemary oil on hand to dab behind your ears on those days that you wish to make a lasting impression, such as opening night, a job interview or a hot date. Wear rosemary oil whenever you want to be unforgettable!

Motherwort

Thu, 10/25/2007 - 19:59 — kitchenwitch
Botanical Name:

Leonurus Cardiaca

Zones:
3-8
Other Names:
Lion’s tail, heartwort; Agripaume, Herbe battudo, Agripalma, Melissa, salvatica, Aartgespan, Hartgespan, yi mu cao, yakumos

Motherwort is an interesting and distinctive member of the mint family (Lamiaceae). It grows on a single, tall square stem decorated from top to bottom with opposite leaves. The leaf shape varies somewhat by location, but are generally lobed and palmate.

Propagation:

Motherwort is an attractive accent plant that adds interest to the herb garden. It also attracts bees and butterflies. I have never had to plant motherwort myself. It is a volunteer in my yard forming a beautiful natural flower bed along with burdock and pokeweek in the back corner of my yard behind my altar. However, it can be easily grown from seed just like any other mint. If allowed to set seed at the end of the year, it will reseed and return year after year. Take care, as it can be invasive. Cut the stalks before seeds drop to prevent invasion.

Soil should be light, slightly alkaline and well drained. Motherwort likes a sunny spot, but will tolerate some shade and will germinate once temperatures reach 65-75 degrees farenheight.

History and Folklore:

Motherwort was first used by the Greeks to soothe the anxiety of pregnant women. This use continued and spread and gave the herb its common name. The botanical name, Leonurus cardiaca also comes from the greek. Leon=lion, ouros=tail and kardiaca refers to the heart.

Historicallly, the herb has been associated with longevity. An old legend states that there was once a town whose spring ran through a patch of Motherwort. Alli the local townspeople got their daily drinking water from that spring and all of them lived to be over 100 years old. Its association with longevity was widespread throughout Europe and Asia.

Traditional herbals suggest motherwort for "hysterical" conditions and "meloncholy".

In the Victorian language of flowers, motherwort symbolized concealed love.

Harvesting & Storage:

The plants should be harvested while in full bloom. Cut the entire plant at the base of the stalk and hang upside down to dry. Be sure to leave a few stalks to self seed. Once dry, store in an air-tight glass container away from light and heat.

The fresh leaves and flowers can also be preserved as a tincture immediately after harvest.

Household Use:
Magical Attributes:

Motherwort energies promote inner trust and confidence that the ultimate outcome will be best for all involved in the fullness of time. It is also used for counter-magic and associated with immortality and spiritual healing. It is a protective herb, especially in spells designed to protect pregnant women and their unborn children.

Motherwort can be smoked to promote astral projection, but smoking too much can cause reperatory arrest. It is therefore perhaps best used as a smudge or burned as inscense in these cases. It is especially good in combination with mugwort.

Motherwort is associated with Frigga (Freya, Frige, Fricka, Frija) and Ogun
It corresponds to the energy of Leo, Venus, and the element of Water.

Healing Attributes:

Motherwort, as its name implies, is a woman's herb. It has been used in Asia to prevent pregnancy and regulate menstrual cycles. It is used by midwives to help expell the afterbirth, to help get the uterus back into shape after childbirth, to prevent uterine infections and to ease symptoms of post partum stress and depression. Some herbalists recommend drinking motherwort tea during pregnancy, but its other uses indicate that this would probably put the pregnancy at risk of premature termination, so caution is advised. This use of motherwort is only indicated in cases of extreme anxiety during pregnancy when the risk posed by the mother's stress is greater than the risk posed by a cup of motherwort tea. It is most often used in late stage pregnancy and during labor, however, one must take into account the affect the herb may have on the fetal heart rate. Many women swear by Motherwort tea as a treatment for cramps, bloating and irritibility associated with PMS and hotflashes. It is also used in cases where a woman's cycle is disturbed due to stress.

Motherwort is a relaxant that acts on the smooth muscles and vascular system. It is particularly effective in helping to slow the heartbeat that is revved up due to stress.

Motherwort should not be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women or by anyone under treatment for a thyroid condition. It could interfere with thyroid medications. Individuals who take digoxin should not use motherwort as it can intensify the action of the drug causing heart rate to slow down too much for safety. Also, do not take motherwort in conjunction with other herbs that affect the heart such as ginger, hawthorn, mistletoe, ginseng, pleurisy root, and squill. Motherwort has also been reported to interfere with blood clotting and shouldn't be used by those with blood clotting issues.

Motherwort can cause diarrhea and stomach irritation in large doses. Prolonged use may lead to photosensitivity, so if you use motherwort on a regular basis, be sure to cover up and use sunscreen!

Motherwort may cause drowsiness. Do not operate heavy machinery while under the influence of this herb. If you take any drugs that have a side effect of drowsiness, be aware that motherwort will most likely intensify this effect. This includes over the counter drugs such as diphenhydramine or doxylamine and over the counter sleep aids. Caution should also be taken in combining motherwort with sleep inducing herbs such as catnip, hops, kava, St. John's Wort and valerian.

Use 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb in 1 cup of boiling water no more than twice per day or up to 1 teaspoon of tincture per day. Motherwort should not be given to young children.

Motherwort tea is very bitter. Sweeten with honey.

Culinary Use:

Young shoots can be cooked like any other green.

Practical Kitchen Witchery:

Serve motherwort tea in moments of family crisis. It helps sooth the physical symptoms of stress (and panic) so that you can focus on solving the problem.

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