The Herbal Encyclopedia
MEDICINAL: The gel of the inner part of an aloe leaf is used to treat burns,
skin rashes, and insect bites, as well as chafed nipples from breastfeeding,
when applied to the affected area externally. Internally it can be used to keep
the bowels functioning smoothly, or when there is an impaction, although it can
cause intestinal cramping when taken internally, and there are other herbs that
do this job better. It aids in healing wounds by drawing out infection, and
preventing infection from starting. The fresh gel is best to use, rather than
"stabilized" gels found in the stores. The fresh gel was used by Cleopatra to
keep her skin soft and young.
MAGICKAL: Growing an aloe vera plant in the kitchen will help prevent burns and
mishaps while cooking. It will also prevent household accidents, and guard
GROWING: Best grown indoors in pots. Those living in the deep South, as in
southern Texas or southern Florida, can grow aloe outdoors. Remember that Aloe
is a succulent, not a cactus, so it needs water to keep the leaves fleshy and
MEDICINAL: Amaranth is used to battle stomach flu, diarrhea, and
gastoenteritis. It was used by Native Americans to stop menstruation and for
contraception. Applied externally, it can reduce tissue swelling from sprains
and tick bites. Not to be used by pregnant or lactating women.
MAGICKAL: Amaranth is used to repair a broken heart. It is also associated
with immortality, and is used to decorate images of gods and goddesses. It is
sacred to the god Artemis. Woven into a wreath, it is said to render the wearer
invisible. Also used in pagan burial ceremonies.
MEDICINAL: Angelica is a good herbal tea to take for colic, gas, indigestion,
hepatitis, and heartburn. It is useful to add in remedies for afflictions of
the respiratory system. Angelica should not be used by pregnant women or
MAGICKAL: Grow it in your garden as a protection for garden and home. The root
is often used as a protective amulet, and has been used to banish evil by
burning the leaves. It is also used to lengthen life, and is used in protection
against diseases. Adding it to a ritual bath will break spells and hexes.
GROWING: Angelica needs rich, moist garden soil in partial shade. It prefers wet
bottomlands and swamps. Prefers the cooler northern regions to grow best. It is
a perennial that can reach up to 6 feet tall.
MEDICINAL: Another good herb for colic, gas, and indigestion. It can also be
used in herbal remedies for coughing, as it aids in loosening phlegm. It is the
mildest of the herbs used for these purposes.
MAGICKAL: Anise mixed with bay leaves provides an excellent bath additive prior
to ritual. Using anise in potpourri around the house wards off evil, and anise
in your sleeping pillow at night will chase away the nightmares. The essential
oil is used in ritual baths prior to any divination attempts. It is believed
that hanging an anise seed head on your bedpost will restore lost youth.
GROWING: Anise likes warm, sunny areas with well-drained, rich sandy soils. It
is suitable for all areas of North America. It is an annual, and grows 1-2 feet
high. It needs 120 days to produce fully ripened seed heads.
MEDICINAL: Apples are used to treat constipation. The pectin in fresh apples can
help to lower cholesterol levels, an aid in treating heart disease. Crushed
apple leaves can be rubbed on a fresh wound to prevent infection.
MAGICKAL: Apple blossoms are used in love and healing incenses. An apple
should be given to a lover as a present - you should eat one half, the over the
other. It is given as an offering on Samhain to the dead, since it is a symbol
of immortality. Apple wood is used to make magickal wands. Pouring apple cider
on the ground in your garden before you plant gives the earth life.
GROWING: Apple trees grow over most of North America. They need a cool winter
period, making them unsuitable for low desert or tropical regions. Check with
your local nursery for varieties best suited to your area and growing
MEDICINAL: Astragalus strengthens metabolism and digestion, raises metabolism,
and is used in the healing of wounds and injuries. It is often cooked with
broths, rice, or beans for a boost tot he healing energies during those
illnesses that prevent one from eating normally.
MEDICINAL: Basil is used to treat stomach cramps, vomiting, fevers, colds, flu,
headaches, whooping cough, and menstrual pains. It is also used to reduce
stomach acid, making it a valuable part of any treatment for ulcers, and a
valuable addition to any recipe using tomatoes for those with sensitive
stomachs. Externally, it can be used for insect bites, to draw out the poisons.
It has been used in other countries to eliminate worms from the intestines, and
the oil from basil leaves is applied directly to the skin to treat acne.
MAGICKAL: Basil protects from evil and negativity, and aids in attracting and
keeping love. It is used for purification baths, and in wealth and prosperity
rituals. Carrying a basil leaf in your pocket brings wealth, and if powdered
basil is sprinked over your mate while they sleep, it is supposed to eliminate
infidelity from your marriage.
GROWING: Basil will grow in any well-drained, fairly rich soil, and full sun.
It can be grown throughout most of North America. It is an annual, which
reaches 2-3 feet tall. Pinch off the tips to promote bushiness and flower buds
MEDICINAL: Bayberry, taken in small doses, increases the vitality of your total
body systems, improving circulation. It can also be used as a poultice over
varicose veins to strengthen the blood vessels. A douche made of the tea is used
for vaginal infections. Tea made of Bayberry is a good gargle for sore throat
MAGICKAL: The oil of Bayberry will bring prosperity and luck.
MAGICKAL: The leaves are burned to enhance psychic powers and to produce
visions. Worn in an amulet, it will provide protection from evil and negativity.
The leaves are used as decorations during the Yule season, and placed in your
windo it will protect against lightning striking your house. Write a wish on a
bay leaf and then burn it if you want the wish to come true.
Sprinkling the crushed leaves in your cupboards will keep out cockroaches and
MEDICINAL: Bistort root, when ground and mixed with echinacea, myrrh, and
goldenseal, is a great dressing for cuts and other wounds. It is also a
powerful astringent, used by mixing a teaspoon in a cup of boiled water, and
drunk several times a day, as a treatment for diarrhea and dysentery. The same
mixture can be used as a gargle for sore throats. Bistort is good to drive out
infectious disease, and is effective for all internal and external bleeding.
MAGICKAL: An amulet fashioned of the root of Bistort is carried when one wishes
GROWING: Bistort prefers damp soils, such as in cultivated fields. It is native
to Europe, but has been grown in Nova Scotia and as far south as Massachusetts.
It is a perennial that reaches up to 30 inches tall. Sprinkle an infusion of
bistort around your home to keep out unwanted visitors of the mischievous
variety, such as poltergeists, sprites, etc.
MEDICINAL: Black Cohosh is useful in all conditions dealing with arthritis. It
improves blood circulation, and is used in treating delayed and painful
menstruation, and is often used in conjunction with other herbs in treating
menopause symptoms. It should not be used during pregnancy. Black Cohosh can be
poisonous in large doses. It contains a chemical much like estrogen, so those
advised by their doctor's not to take the Pill shoud avoid using this herb.
MAGICKAL: Black Cohosh leaves laid around a room is said to drive away bugs, and
to drive away negativity.
GROWING: Black Cohosh grows in open woody areas. It needs good soil and partial
to mostly shade to do well. It has been grown as far south as Georgia, and as
far west as Missouri. It is a perennial which reaches 3 - 8 feet tall.
MEDICINAL: Blessed Thistle is used to strengthen the heart, and is useful in
all remedies for lung, kidney, and liver problems. It is also used as a brain
food for stimulating the memory. It is used in remedies for menopause and for
menstrual cramping. Blessed Thistle should never be taken alone, nor should it
be used during pregnancy.
GROWING: Blessed Thistle is generally found along roadsides and in wastelands.
It is an annual, and reaches to 2 feet tall. Most folks consider this a pesky
weed, so cultivation is not common. Try gathering some for yourself from the
MEDICINAL: Blue Cohosh is used to regulate the menstrual flow. It is also used
for suppressed menstruation. Native Americans used this herb during childbirth
to ease the pain and difficulty that accompany birthing, as well as to induce
labor. This herb should not be taken during pregnancy, and should be taken in
very small amounts in conjunction with other herbs, such as Black Cohosh.
GROWING: Blue Cohosh grows best in deep, loamy, moist woodlands. The berry of
this plant is poisonous, and the plant itself can irritate the skin. The root is
the part used in herbal medicine. It has a range from southern Canada, as far
south as the Carolinas, and as far west as Missouri. This herb is best purchased
from the stores, rather than cultivated.
MEDICINAL: Burdock Root is used to treat skin diseases, boils, fevers,
inflammations, hepatitis, swollen glands, some cancers, and fluid retention. It
is an excellent blood purifier. A tea made of the leaves of Burdock is also used
MAGICKAL: Used to ward off all sorts of negativity, making it invaluable for
protective amulets and sachets. Add to potpourri in the house.
MEDICINAL: Caraway aids digestion, can help promote menses, can increase a
mother's milk, and is good to add to cough remedies as an expectorant.
MAGICKAL: Carry Caraway in an amulet for protection. Carrying caraway seeds
promotes the memory. It can also guard against theft. It is said to promote lust
when baked into breads, cookies, or cakes.
GROWING: Caraway can be found in meadows, woods, and rocky areas. It prefers a
rich soil. Native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, it also grows wild here in North
America. It is a biennial that reaches 1 1/2 - 2 feet high.
MEDICINAL: Catnip is effective alone or in herbal remedies for colds, flu,
fevers, upset stomach, and insomnia. Particularly good for children with upset
stomachs in a very mild infusion.
MAGICKAL: Use the large leaves, well dried, to mark pages in magickal books.
Use in conjunction with rose petals in love sachets. It will also create a
psychic bond between you and your cat. Grow near your home to attract luck and
GROWING: Catnip will grow in most soils, and tends to enjoy a bit of the dry
spells once it is established. It grows throughout North America, and is a
perennial reaching to 3 feet high.
MEDICINAL: Cayenne, also called capsicum, is very effective added to liniments
for all sorts of arthritis and muscle aches. It benefits the heart and
circulation when taken alone or added to other remedies. It is also used to
stimulate the action of other herbs. It will stop bleeding both externally and
internally, making it excellent for use with ulcers. It is used in antibiotic
combinations, for menstrual cramps, and as a part of treatment for depression.
MAGICKAL: Cayenne pepper scattered around your house will break bad spells.
Adding it to love powders will ensure that your love will be spicy, and can
inflame the loved one with passion.
GROWING: Cayenne pepper plants like a good, rich soil, plenty of water, and full
sun. The peppers are dried after ripening. For herbal use, the peppers are
usually ground into a powder and mixed with other powdered herbs in capsules.
MAGICKAL: Cedar chips used in rituals or burnt attracts money, and is also used
in purification and healing. It is a symbol of power and longevity. Hung in the
home it will protect against lightning. Juniper can be used in place of cedar.
MEDICINAL: Use the tea for nerves and menstrual cramps. The tea is also useful
for babies and small children with colds and stomach troubles. Also used to calm
the body for inducing sleep in insomniac conditions. It is also a good wash for
sore eyes and open sores.
MAGICKAL: Chamomile is used in prosperity charms to attract money. Added to
incense, it will produce a relaxed state for better meditation. Burned alone it
will induce sleep. Added to a ritual bath, it will attract love. Sprinkle it
around your property to remove curses and bad spells.
GROWING: Chamomile is an annual that adapts to most soils, likes lots of water
and full sun. It grows up to 20 inches tall.
MEDICINAL: Add cinnamon to remedies for acute symptoms, as this herb is a
stimulant to other herbs and the body, enabling herbal remedies to work faster.
It is also a blood purifier, an infection preventer, and a digestive aid. Do not
MAGICKAL: Burned in incense, cinnamon will promote high spirituality. It is also
used to stimulate the passions of the male. It should also be burned in incenses
used for healing. The essential oil is used for protection.
MEDICINAL: Red Clover is used as a nerve tonic and as a sedative for
exhaustion. It is used to strengthen those children with weak systems, and is
used with children for coughs, bronchitis, wheezing, as it is mild to their
systems. It is often used in combination with many other drugs in the treatment
of cancer. It is also used for skin eruptions (acne).
MAGICKAL: Clover brings luck, prsperity, and health. Carrying a three-leaf
clover gives you protection. Worn over the right breast it will bring you
success in all undertakings.
GROWING: Grow clover as you would lawn grasses. Clover is an excellent cover
crop, planted in fallow areas and turned under in the fall, it makes an
excellent fertilizer for poor soils.
MEDICINAL: Clove oil will stop a toothache when it is applied directly to the
cavity. It is very warm and stimulating to the system, and is very useful with
people who have cold extremities. Cloves will promote sweating with fevers,
colds, and flu. It is often used in remedies for whooping cough. Cloves are also
safe and effective for relieving vomiting during pregnancy.
MAGICKAL: Cloves worn in an amulet will drive away negativity and hostility,
and stop gossip. It is often carried to stimulate the memory, and can be added
to attraction sachets. Clove oil is also worn as an aphrodisiac, and the buds
when eaten are said to stir up bodily lusts. It is placed in sachets with mint
and rose to chase away melancholy and to help one sleep soundly. Carried, it can
also bring comfort to the bereaved and mourning.
MEDICINAL: A poultice of comfrey heals wounds, burns, sores, and bruises. It is
a powerful remedy for coughs, ulcers, healing broken bones and sprains, and is
used in treating asthma. Large amounts or dosages can cause liver damage, but
there are no problems with using it externally. Used internally, it is best and
safest to use a tea, rather than capsules.
MAGICKAL: Carrying comfrey during travel will ensure your safety. Put some in
your luggage to prevent it being lost or stolen. It will also bring luck to the
GROWING: Comfrey prefers well-drained soils and partial shade. It grows from
Canada to Georgia, as far west as Missouri, in the wild. It is a perennial that
grows to 3 feet high. It can be started form seed, but you wil be more
successful with cuttings. Once established, it will spread vigorously. Harvest
leaves when the flowers bud, and roots in the autumn after the first frost.
MEDICINAL: Juices from the stems of this plant are used externally to treat
MAGICKAL: Cornflower is used to promote and enhance phsychic sight, as well as
GROWING: Cornflower is adaptable to many soils and conditions. It is an annual
that grows 1 - 2 feet tall.
MEDICINAL: Cramp Bark is one of the best female regulators in the herb world.
It is a uterine sedative, aiding in menstrual cramps and afterbirth. It helps to
prevent miscarriage, as well as internal hemmorhaging.
MEDICINAL: Damiana is used to regulate the female cycles. I t is also used to
stimulate the sexual appetite. It is good for urinary problems and nervousness,
MAGICKAL: Damiana is used in infusions to incite lust, and is burned to produce
MEDICINAL: Dandelion benefits all aspects of the liver. It clears obstructions
and detoxifies poisons. It will also promote healthy circulation. The juice
froma broken stem can be applied to warts and allowed to dry; used for 3 days or
so it will dry up the warts. It is also used to treat premenstrual syndrome, as
MAGICKAL: It is a sign of rain when the down from a ripened dandelion head falls
without wind helping it to do so. To blow the seeds off a ripened head is to
carry your thoughts to a loved one, near or far.
GROWING: Dandelion is a common yard, garden, and roadside weed. Do not gather
where chemicals have been used, and don't gather those near roadsides, as they
have been contaminated from exhausts.
MEDICINAL: Dill is used to treat colic, gas, and indigestion.
MAGICKAL: Dill is used in love and protection sachets. The dried seed heads
hung in the home, over doorways, and above cradles provides protection. Add dill
to your bath to make you irresistible to your lover.
GROWING: Dill grows in most regions of North America. It needs sun and a well-
drained soil, and frequent waterings. It is a hardy annual, biennial in the deep
southern regions, that reaches 2 - 3 feet tall. Dill matures quickly, and self-
sows for the following year. Plant in six week intervals for a season-long
MEDICINAL: The resin of Dragon's Blood is used externally as a wash to promote
healing and stop bleeding. Internally it is used for chest pains, post-partum
bleeding, internal traumas, and menstrual irregularities.
MAGICKAL: Added to love incenses and sachets, it increases the potency of other
herbs used. A piece of the plant is often used under the mattress as a cure for
impotency. It is also used in spells to bring back a loved one. A pinch added to
other herbs for magickal purposes will increase their potency.
MEDICINAL: Echinacea, also known as Purple Coneflower, is a natural antibiotic.
It increases the production of white blood cells, and improves the lymph
glands. The tea from this herb should be used in all infections, and has been
used in treating skin cancers and other cancers.
MAGICKAL: Echinacea is used as an offering to the spirits or gods and goddesses
to strengthen a spell or ritual.
GROWING: Echinacea likes the prairies and other open, dry places. It adapts to
most soils, in full sun, except wet ones. It grows over most of North America.
It is a perennial, and reaches to about 2 feet tall. The root is used ground,
and the leaves are used for teas.
MEDICINAL: Elder flowers mixed with mint and yarrow blossoms are excellent
internal cleansers when fighting flu and colds. A tea of the elder flowers and
sassafras is a remedy for acne. Elder flower oil is a remedy for chapped skin.
Should not be used internally by pregnant or lactating women.
MAGICKAL: The branches of the sacred elder are used to make magickal wands for
ritual. Scattering the leaves in the four winds will bring protection.
Elderberry wine, made from the berries, is used in rituals. In Denmark, it is
believed to be unlucky to have furniture made of elder wood. Grown near your
home, elder will offer protection to the dwellers. It is used at weddings to
bring good luck to the newlyweds. Flutes made formt he branches are used to
GROWING: Elder is a tree or shrub, growing to 30 feet tall. It prefers moist
areas throughout North America. The leaves, bark, and roots of the American
varieties generally contain poisonous alkaloids and should not be used
MEDICINAL: Elecampane is used for intestinal worms, water retention, and to
lessen tooth decay and firm the gums. It gives relief to respiratory ailments.
It is usually used in combination with other herbs. Externally it is used as a
wash for wounds and itching rashes. It is burned to repel insects.
MAGICKAL: Add this herb to love charms and amulets of all kinds. Used with
mistletoe and vervain, it is especially powerful. Use when scrying for better
GROWING: Elecampane enjoys roadsides and damp fields and pastures. Plant it in
full sun in a damp, but not soggy, location. It is a perennial that grows 3 - 6
feet tall. The root is most commonly used.
MEDICINAL: Eucalyptus oil is a powerful antiseptic, and is used to treat
pyorrhea (gum disease), and is used on burns to prevent infections. The oil
breathed in will help clear the sinuses, as will the steam from boiling the
leaves. When mixed with water or vegetable oils, it makes a good insect
repellant. A small drop on the tongue eases nausea.
MAGICKAL: Healing energies come from the leaves. A branch or wreath over the bed
of a sick person will help spread the healing energies. The oil is added to
healing baths, and for purifications.
GROWING: Eucalyptus reigns among the tallest trees in the world, capable of
reaching heights of over 250 feet tall. It thrives only in areas where the
average temperature remains above 60 degrees, and is adaptable to several soil
MEDICINAL: Evening Primrose oil stimulates to help with liver and spleen
conditions. In Europe, it has been used to treat Multiple Sclerosis. It lowers
blood pressure, and eases the pain of angina by opening up the blood vessels. It
has been found to help slow the production of cholesterol, and has been found to
lower cholesterol levels. Used with Dong Quai and Vitex, it is a valuable part
of an herbal remedy for treating the symptoms of pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS)
GROWING: The American variety is found throughout North America. It enjoys dry
soils and full sun. It is a biennial, and grows 3 - 6 feet tall. The seed oil is
the most commonly used portion of the plant. Some nurseries sell evening
primrose, but they are actually a small, showy hybrid of the perennial Missouri
Primrose, and does not have the same medicinal uses.
MEDICINAL: Eyebright stimulates the liver to remove toxins from the body. It
has been used internally and externally to treat eye infections and
afflictions, such as pink-eye. The herb strengthens the eye, and helps to repair
MAGICKAL: Eyebright is used to make a simple tea to rub on the eyelids to induce
and enhance clairvoyant visions.
GROWING: Eyebright is adaptable to many soil types in full sun. It is a small
annual, growing 2 - 8 inches high. It attaches itself by underground suckers to
the roots of neighboring grass plants and takes its nutrients from them. To be
cultivated, it must be given nurse plants on whose roots it can feed.
MEDICINAL: False Unicorn is very soothing for a delicate stomach. It also
stimulates the reproductive organs in women and men. This herb is very important
for use during menopause, due to its positive effects on uterine disorders,
headaches, and depression.
MEDICINAL: Fennel helps to take away the appetite. It is often used as a
sedative for small children. It improves digestion, and is very helpful with
coughs. It is also used for cancer patients after radiation and chemotherapy
MAGICKAL: Use for scenting soaps and perfumes to ward off negativity and evil.
Grow near the home for the same purpose.
GROWING: Fennel prefers dry, sunny areas. It is a perennial that can reach 4 -
MEDICINAL: Fenugreek is used to soften and expel mucous. It has antiseptic
properties and will kill infections in the lungs. Used with lemon and honey, it
will help reduce a fever and will soothe and nourish the body during illness. It
has been used to relax the uterus, and for this reason should not be taken by
MAGICKAL: Adding a few fenugreek seeds to the mop water used to clean your
household floors will bring money into the household.
GROWING: Fenugreek likes dry, moderately fertile soil in a sunny location. It
is an annual, and grows to 1 - 3 feet tall.
MEDICINAL: Feverfew is used to treat colds, fevers, flu, and digestive
problems. It is often used to end migraines and other headaches.
MAGICKAL: Feverfew is carried for protection against illnesses involving fever,
as well as for preventing accidents.
GROWING: Feverfew bears a resemblance to chamomile. It prefers dry places, will
tolerate poor soil, and is a hardy biennial or perennial, growing to 2 1/2
feet. It prefers full sun.
MEDICINAL: Frankincense relieves menstrual pains, and treats rheumatic aches
and pains. Externally it is used for liniments and for its antiseptic
MAGICKAL: Frankincense is burned to raise vibrations, purify, and exorcise. It
will aid meditations and visions. The essential oil is used to anoint magickal
MEDICINAL: Garlic is a powerful natural antibiotic. It can stimulate cell
growth and activity. It reduces blood pressure in hypertensive conditions. A
main advantage to using garlic for its antibiotic properties is that it does not
destroy the body's natural flora. It is excellent for use in all colds and
infections of the body. When ingesting the raw cloves, a sprig of parsley chewed
immediately after will freshen the breath.
MAGICKAL: Peeled garlic cloves placed in each room is said to ward off disease.
It is hung in new homes to dispel negativity and evil, and (don't laugh!) to
ward off vampires. It is a strong protective herb. Place a clove under the
pillow of sleeping children to protect them.
GROWING: Garlic is a perennial herb that likes moderate soil and lots of sun and
warmth. The plant grows to 2 feet tall. The bulb is the most common used
portion, although the greens are often used in salads.
MEDICINAL: Ginger is an excellent herb to use for strengthening and healing the
respiratory system, as well as for fighting off colds and flu. It removes
congestion, soothes sore throats, and relieves headaches and body aches.
Combined with other herbs, it enhances their effectiveness. It is also very
effective in combatting motion sickness.
MAGICKAL: Ginger is used in passion spells, to "heat up" the relationship. It is
used in success spells, and to ensure the success of spells.
GROWING: Ginger grows through most of North America. It reaches to 6 inches
high, and is a perennial. The dried ground root is the part used for healing.
MEDICINAL: Ginseng stimulates the body to overcome all forms of illness,
physical and mental. It is used to lower blood pressure, increase endurance, aid
in relieving depression, and is a sexual stimulant. The dried root is used for
healing purposes. It has been used throughout ancient times to the present day
for use in conjunction with most herbs in treating all sorts of illnesses,
including cancers, digestive troubles, and memory.
MAGICKAL: Ginseng is carried to guard your health and to attract love. It will
also ensure sexual potency. Ginseng can be a substitute for mandrake.
GROWING: Ginseng can be very difficult to grow. Germination of disinfected seeds
(to kill mold, which plagues ginseng at all stages of growth) can take up to a
year or more. Plant in early autumn in raised beds of very humus-rich soil.
Plants must be shaded at all times. Roots are not harvested until the plants are
at least 6 years old. Take care during harvesting and drying not to
break off any of the "arms" of the root. Dry for one month before use.
MEDICINAL: Goldenseal is another natural, powerful antibiotic. It should not
be used by pregnant women. The herb goes straight to the bloodstream and
eliminates infection in the body. It enables the liver to recover. When taken in
combination with other herbs, it will boost the properties for the accompanying
MAGICKAL: Goldenseal is used n properity spells, as well as healing spells and
GROWING: Goldenseal prefers rich soils in partial shade. It is a perennial herb
that grows 6 - 18 inches high. The dried ground root is the part most often
used, although the dried leaves are used in teas. It is difficult to grow
successfully, and the plants need to be at least 6 years old before harvesting.
MEDICINAL: Gotu Kola is and excellent mental stimulant. It is often used after
mental breakdowns, and used regularly, can prevent nervous breakdown, as it is
a brain cell stimulant. It relieves mental fatigue and senility, and aids the
body in defending itself against toxins.
MAGICKAL: Gotu Kola is used in meditation incenses.
MEDICINAL: Hawthorn is effective for curing insomnia. Hawthorn is used to
prevent miscarriage and for treating nervousness. Hawthorn has been used for
centuries in treating heart disease, as regular use strengthens the heart
muscles, and to prevent arteriosclerosis, angina, and poor heart action.
MAGICKAL: The leaves are used to make protection sachets. They are also carried
to ensure good fishing. In Europe, Hawthorn was used to repel witchcraft
spells. Bringing branches of it into the home is supposed to portend death. It
is incorporated into spells and rituals for fertility. It will protect the home
GROWING: Hawthorn is a deciduous tree or shrub, that can reach 40 feet tall. It
grows throughout North America. It is tolerant of most soils, but prefers
alkaline, rich, moist loam. Consult a nursery for the best species to use in
your area. The fruit is the part used in healing.
MAGICKAL: Hazel's forked branches are used for divining, and the wood makes
wonderful wands. Hazel nuts hung in the house will bring luck,