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Calendula officinalis
[ka-LEN-dew-luh oh-fiss-ih-NAH-liss]

Family: Asteraceae (Composite)

Names: Pot Marigold, Summer's Bride, Husbandman's Dial, Holigold, Marybud,
Marygold, Bride of the Sun, Spousa Solis, Golds, bull flower; butterwort, care, cowbloom, death-flower, drunkard, golden flower of Mary, gouls, goulans, kingcups, holygold, sun’s bride, water dragon, yolk of egg, poet’s marygold, publican and sinner, ruddles, Scotch marigold, shining herb, solsequia, Gold; Ringelblume, Studentenblume, Totenblume, Goldblume (German); souci (French); calendula (Italian); Nagietek lekarski (Polish); goedsbloemwratten-
kruid (Dutch); calendula gialla, fiorrancio, calenzola (Italian); calendula, flamenquilla, maravilla, flor de muerto (Spanish); maravilhas, marianas (Portuguese); ringblomma (Swedish); nogotki, lekarstvennye (Russian); chin-chan-hua (Chinese); janvah, azariyunah, azarboya (Arabic)

Description: Native to Asia and southern Europe and was brought to America by early settlers. Introduced to Britain by the Romans. Calendula is a flowering annual that grows to a height of twelve to eighteen inches. The stem is slightly fuzzy and the leaves are soft, long (growing to 6"), pale green. The root is a long spindly taproot. Flowers may be yellow or orange. The flowers are about one and one-half inches in diameter, consisting of concentric rows of ray florets  surrounding the smaller ones making up the center disc.

Cultivation: Direct seed in the garden once the last chance of frost has past or plants can be put out before the last frost being careful not to injure the long taproot when transplanting. Germination is 7-10 days at a very high percentage if the seed is of good quality. The young seedlings are susceptible to damping off so take care to have good drainage and ventilation. Prefers a moderately healthy soil with average drainage and a pH of 5-8 but will grow in a wide range of soils. They prefer full sun or partial shade. A second planting can be made at the beginning of July to ensure a fall harvest. Thin plants to 12 inches apart. If you dehead the plant religiously in spring and summer it may produce more flowers as the weather turns cooler. Irrigation needs are on the high side so it’s  recommended to water once or twice a week depending on the temperature, humidity and soil type. Cultivation should be done soon after transplanting and probably one more time before it becomes unnecessary due to the short life of the crop in the field. Pests include blister beetles, aphids and cucumber beetles. Best way to deal with pests is to pick the flowers often so there is little time for the pests to feed. Cucumber beetles are extremely difficult to deal with except with strong botanicals like rotenone.

Flower harvest can start as early as late May in warm areas. You can pick a particular planting three times a week until productivity goes way down, which is usually after 6-8 weeks. Harvests start to diminish in the late plantings after the first frost. The best time to pick is in the heat of the day when the resins are highest and the water content the lowest. Never let the flowers develop to the point where the seed is forming or you will greatly diminish your harvest totals.
The flowers should be dried as soon as possible as they tend to heat up and decompose if kept in the sun or in your harvest bucket. The petals dry quickly but the receptacle does not so you can expect a total drying time of 10 days or more at 90 degrees or so. Some growers advocate quick drying at high temperatures of 120 degrees which dries them in 5-7 days. They must also be sorted carefully as they reabsorb moisture readily. Dry flower yields of 400-600 pounds per acre can be expected. An acre would require a crew of 3-4 picking nearly every afternoon for 3-4 months.
History: The word calendula is derived from the Latin calens meaning the first day of each month because the Romans claimed they bloomed the first of each month. Christians called it "marygold" and "marybud" because it bloomed at all the festivals celebrating the Virgin Mary, also because people believed by constant association with the flowers they could ward off evil. It should not be confused with Tagetes also called "marigold". Known as the "herb of the sun" because the flowers open in the morning and close in the evening. Mentioned as such in Shakespeare's A Winter's Tale. The French name gauche-fer, meaning left-hand iron, was coined because the brilliant yellow marigold flower was thought to resemble the polished shield worn by warriors on the left arm. The culinary use of calendula dates back to ancient Rome. Common people couldn't afford to buy saffron and they discovered that powdered calendula petals were an excellent substitute which is why it has been called "poor man's saffron".

There are many stories about calendula. One is the story of the four wood nymphs who fell in love with Apollo, the sun god. The nymphs became so jealous of one another they began neglecting their duties to Apollo's sister, the goddess Diana. She turned them into four dull-white marigolds, which distressed Apollo, but his only recourse was to send down his most brilliant rays to color them gold. In German folklore, rain was predicted if the flowers remained closed after 7 am. In India, Buddhists held pot marigold sacred to the goddess Mahadevi, who carried a trident emblem adorned with the flowers, while her followers crowned themselves with marigolds at her festival. Marigold was commonly used as an aphrodisiac, and thought to have great significance in love. Planting marigold in the footsteps of a loved one was supposed to tie him to his beloved. An old legend held that if a maiden touches a pot marigold with her bare foot she would be able to understand the language of birds. In the Middle Ages in Europe it was believed that those who wore marigolds would have a vision of anyone who had robbed them. Spanish sorcerers were said to wear it as a talisman. Traditionally it was picked when the Sun entered the sign of Virgo and the picker had to carry a wolf’s tooth wrapped in a bay leaf. In Mexico it is thought to be a flower of death and is believed to have spring from the blood of the Indians killed by the Spanish invaders.

Xochiquetzal, the Aztec love goddess, taught her people the message of the  marigold, the petalled book of the cycles of life, of seed to leafy stem, of leafy stem to bud, of bud to flower open to the Sun, of flowers to drying petals that were the womb for the seed – to complete the cycle. Offerings of marigold petals were made to her. In the early days of this country dried marigold petals were sold in country stores out of a wooden barrel just like other herbs. The practice of coloring butter made from autumn and winter milk--low in vitamin A and pale
compared to spring butter--with skin-healing calendula was so common that butter became widely known as a burn ointment. The pigmentation of ornamental fish in captivity can be intensified by adding Calendula to regular fish food.
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Constituents: essential oil, carotenoid;flavanoids; sterol; mucilage; saponins;carotones; bitter glycosides; triterpenes; resin

Character: slightly bitter, pungent, drying, gently cooling

Meridians/Organs affected: liver, heart,lungs

Key Actions: anti-inflammatory; relieves muscle spasms; astringent; prevents hemorrhaging; heals wounds; antiseptic; detoxifying; mildly estrogenic

Cosmetic Use: The yellow or orange flowers produce a dye for the hair which women used in 16th century Europe. Marigold water is soothing to the eyes and the flowers provide a face cream which leaves the skin smooth and silky. When infused in water, marigold blooms make a tea that, when sipped, tones up a lazy circulation. It is also said to alleviate varicose veins. Since the blooms have healing properties the cooled infusion is valuable as a skin tonic for oily, blemished complexions. It can also be used as a rich skin moisturizer, a hair shampoo and a rinse, the latter being particularly useful in highlighting the tints in brown and reddish hair.

Medicinal Uses: Throughout the ages, tinctures made from calendula blossoms have been used to treat headaches, toothaches and even tuberculosis. The ancient Romans used calendula to treat scorpion bites and soldiers in the American Civil War found it helped stop wounds from bleeding. There is nothing better for sore or inflamed eyes than to bathe them in marigold water. (Place a large handful of flowers in a saucepan and add 1/2 pint water. Simmer for 20 minutes, strain and use while slightly warm.) Calendula is a popular salve and cream ingredient because it decreases the inflammation of sprains, stings, varicose veins and other swellings and soothes burns, sunburn, rashes and skin irritations.

Laboratory studies show it kills bacteria and fungus such as ringworm, athlete's foot. It is gentle enough to be applied as a tea to thrush in children's mouths. Taken internally, it has been used traditionally to promote the draining of swollen lymph glands, such as in tonsillitis and as part of the therapy for uterine or breast cancer, both as a poultice and as a tea. Herbalists report success in using a swab of calendula preparation or calendula boluses to treat abnormal cervical cells. Some antitumor activities have been observed in scientific studies. The infusion or tincture helps inflammatory problems of the digestive system such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, regional ileitis and colitis. Calendula has long been considered a detoxifying herb, and helps to treat the toxicity that underlies many fevers and infections and systemic skin disorders such as eczema and acne. The herb is also considered cleansing for the liver (promotes bile production) and gallbladder and can be used to treat problems affecting these organs. Makes a healing mouthwash for gums after tooth extraction.

Calendula has a mild estrogenic action and is often used to help reduce menstrual pain and regulate menstrual bleeding. The infusion makes an effective douche for yeast infections. Calendula oil is extracted from the petals by maceration. It is healing and rejuvenating, used in many skin preparations and in aromatherapy.
Applications: Infusion is taken for menopausal problems, period pain, gastritis and for inflammation of the esophagus Tincture is taken for stagnant liver problems, including sluggish digestion and also for menstrual disorders, particularly irregular or painful periods.

Homeopathy: Homeopaths use Calendula officinalis as a local application to open wounds, to stop bleeding after dental work, and internally for cancer. It is indicated especially for excessive pain and a tendency to be chilled, especially in damp weather. Veterinary Use: St. Hildegard von Bingen praised calendula as a remedy for animals, recommending it to treat flatulence in sheep caused by bad feed. For this purpose, give the sheep fresh calendula juice. For cough in cattle
or sheep, spray freshly pressed calendula juice into the nostrils of the affected animal. I have had great success using calendula salve on animals for wounds, injuries and inflammation. Fox this, mix together equal amounts of calendula and comfrey salves. Calendula tea is also suitable for washing wounds.

Emotional Uses: Marigold is said to comfort the heart and spirit. It is used for people who are nervous and easily frightened, who have low defences, pick up illnesses easily and feel themselves in need of protection. It is associated with shock and trauma and the expression of strong emotions, particularly anger. A solar herb, marigold is used to temper the excesses of Mars; that is, anger, impatience and pent up energy. It is good for hotheadedness; in the form of headaches with stabbing pains and for rashness, intolerance and foolhardiness. It has a smoothing effect, like that of unruffling feathers and soothes prickliness. Buy some marigold flowers and keep them wrapped in a white cloth. Carry them with you. When you feel in need of protection, hold the bag and feel the warm solar energy radiating through you.

Aromatherapy Uses:
EXTRACTION: an absolute by solvent extraction from the flowers. The real calendula absolute is produced only in small quantities and is difficult to get hold of.

CHARACTERISTICS: A dark greenish-brown viscous liquid with an intensely sharp, herbaceous odor.

BLENDS WELL: oakmoss, hyacinth, floral and citrus oils

CONSTITUENTS: The absolute contains calendulin, waxes and volatile oil

USES: Skin care: burns, cuts, eczema, greasy skin, inflammations, insect bites, rashes, wounds, cracked nipples, varicose veins Flower Essence: The Calendula flower imparts a warm, golden light of healing for those souls who must learn to use “the Word” as a truly creative spiritual force. It is especially indicated for personal relationship work, and for all healing and teaching work when the art of communication must be intensively developed as a soul force. Calendula gives great forces of warmth and benign compassion to the human soul, especially helping to balance the active and receptive modes of communication.

Ritual Use: Gender - Hot; Planet - Sun; Element - Fire; Basic Powers: Love,  Clairvoyance. Place the flower beneath the head at night to induce clairvoyant dreams. A vase of these flowers in any room immediately brings a renewed surge of life to everyone in it. Sometimes added to love sachets. It should be gathered at noon. In the 16th century, those who drank a potion made from marigolds were
reputed to be able to see fairies. Sun Magic, carried into court for positive outcomes in legal matters, prophesy, simple joys.

Language of Flowers: sacred affections; joy; remembrance; grief

Other Uses: For an orange dye for wool: tear up 1 pint of marigold flowers for each oz of wool you want to dye. Put the flowers in a large pot, and add enough water to cover. Boil the flowers for 30 minutes; then strain out the flowers and add enough fresh water to make 1 quart of dye solution for each ounce of wool to
be dyed. Wet the wool yarn, fabric or unlined garment in warm water; squeeze out excess water; add the yarn, fabric or garment to the dye bath; and let simmer (do not boil) for about 30 minutes. Now turn off the heat, let the solution cool, remove the yarn or garment and rinse it in cool water until the water runs clear.
Some marigold plants appear to be natural pest repellents that keep insects away
without being poisonous to people or pets.

Culinary Use: The edible part of the calendula blossom is the "petal" as the center of the flower is strong and bitter. To remove petals, grasp the bloom in one hand and gently pull the petals from the disk. Calendulas have long been used to color butters and cheeses. They seem to add more color than flavor to most dishes but they do give a delicate, aromatic, salty bitterness. Petals must be well bruised to
give off any color. The easiest way to do this is to chop the fresh petals finely. The taste vaguely suggests marigold: herbaceous and slightly musky. Calendula petals are most commonly used cooked in rice dishes, custards and puddings, but they are also good added to baked goods and egg dishes, and as a garnish for salads and vegetables. Also add the petals to meat dishes, cream soups, chowders, cream
cheese or yogurt dips and mashed potatoes or turnips. The petals can be dried for use in winter soups and stews. They are best dried on paper, canvas or cheesecloth rather than screens or baskets, as they have a tendency to stick to the surface that they're dried on. Keep in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry place
for use out of season. Before adding dried petals to a recipe, pulverize them.
 
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Mugwort is used for astral projection, divination,psychic powers,clairvoyance, protection to travelers, sleep , strength and healing.

Mugwort, also commonly called wormwood, is a perennial herb known for its slumber and dream assist properties. It dispels nightmares, calms sleeplessness tendencies, and is sometimes used to enhance shamanic astral travel during sleep. A mugwort bundle (leaves and flower tied together) is placed under a bed pillow before retiring for the night. Dried bundles of mugwort can also be used as smudging tools to cleanse areas that need energetic clearing.

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Concecration of divination tools.

Make an infusion of the herb mugwort, while it's still warm, strain it and then bathe the mirror or stone in the infusion, while softly whispering this chant 9 times.

As you do so, invision the mirror or stone awakening to you and your own psychic abilities:

Lovely oracle of magic worth,
fair creature of psychic light,
the truest answers, you shall bring forth,
you shall be my eyes, my sight.


Third eye spell
A spell to open the third eye.

Fill a small purple bag (or a piece of cloth that you can wrap herbs in and tie up) with as many of the following herbs as you can:

--mugwort acacia honeysuckle peppermint rosemary thyme yarrow
--cloves dandelion lilac lavender Calendula - (marigold)

Gather the edges of the cloth and tie a string around it if you are using a cloth, or if you used a small purple bag, tie it shut. (Drawstring bags work best.)
Using a dark violet marker, draw an eye on the front of the bag.
Rub the bag on the third eye Chakra (forehead) whenever performing divination or needing
psychic sight, and sleep with it under your pillow every night.

Protection Oil with Mugwort
Base oil: such as sweet almond oil, jojoba, sesame, etc.
To the oil add any three of the following:

--rue, rosemary, angelica, bay, basil, fennel, sage, mugwort, Vervain.

Use either the whole herb or a pure essential oil.
Allow the herbs to mix and steep in the oil for 1 week
Handle the bottle frequently, projecting protective energy into the mixture.
Recommendation:  make this oil during a waning moon but you can also make your own timing judgement.
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I often wondered what it would be like to be out the of damn closet already.....Many things wander thru my mind, such as, if I came out to my family and friends, I have this silly notion stuck in my head that they all would be so excepting and embrace it, and me for choosing the path I have. That's just what it is, a silly notion.

From the conversation I have had in the past with my family and friends, and the comments they have made about similarly related issues, it would seem to me that ignorance is bliss. Not that my family and friends are by any means "haters", they aren't, far from it actually, it is just, like most people in today's society, they fear that which they don't understand.. Plainly put.

I was raised in a "Lutheran" household. However we never actually were regular church attendees by any means. My father worked to much and my mom had us to take care of. I knew of the teachings so to speak, meaning I knew the whole, there was a god, and the baby Jesus, Mary, immaculate conception thing and Adam and eve, etc etc. Any more than that forget it...LOL

I remember going to summer bible school sort of thing, kind of like catechism, but only for the summer, and I only went once. So you see, my family was far from being bible thumpers. However my dad tried to instill a good belief system in us anyways.

Many years later, ( at the age of 19) I got married and failed miserably at it, sucked actually, we both did. To young, you know the bit. Which led me on my path of "there has to be something more". Divorced 3 yrs later and wondering what the hell did I just do with my 3 wasted years? I turned to wicca/witchcraft, and delved into it. It kept my mind busy, and out of trouble. I began studying gardening, herbalism and the like.

Now, older and wiser, on my second marriage of  9yrs, and having a child of 5. I couldn't be happier. My husband is catholic, raised in a the traditional "catholic ways", i.e. purgatory, hell, all the scary shit, that scares the hell out of a kid. However, he is the most open minded person I have ever met, and fully supports me in anything i do, and my beliefs. So now your probably wondering, when am i going to get to the point? Ok, here it is, I am out of the broom closet, but to only one person, my husband. He knows it, he's ok with it, etc.

The rest of my family, not so much as I explained before. The reason? Well it isn't because of what you might think really...it's the fear that they will think I will be setting my daughter up for relentless teasing and ridicule at school. Which, in all honesty, the thought has crossed my mind alot. It is one of the concerns of my husband as well. They would worry that because of my beliefs, that she would be an outcast of sorts. Kids can be so fickle, we all know this. I wouldn't want this for her at all. Any mothers out there can sympathize with me on this one regardless of how they feel about their own beliefs.

I really wouldn't care what they thought of me, it is her I worry about. My husband and I both have talked about this subject over and over. He wants her to have a "base" religion. Of course it is catholic. She was baptized catholic and more than likely going to be attending catechism (shudders). I'm hoping this will be put off as long as possible really...LOL I have told him that I really don't want her to be scared shitless with the catholic teachings. You see my husband still doesn't sleep naked, (for fear of the angels laughing at him...yeah....I can thank his grandmother for this), not to mention the "mamoonas", "purgatory" ,"burning off all your sins, before being allowed into heaven" and other such terrifying thoughts. I could go on and on. My husbands family really put a whammy on his head when he was younger and it carried over into his adult life, but as time goes on he has had time to come to his own conclusions of things and isn't that bad anymore. You know the "older and wiser thing".

Anyways, he is ok, with me teaching her my beliefs, as long as I don't refer to it as "magik" or "spells", he prefers the terms "herbalism and prayer"...which is fine by me. I told him when she is old enough, I will teach her magik and spells, and about the gods and goddess', how I believe all things are connected with nature, etc, etc. but for now, yes..herbalism and prayer. Besides she is to young right now anyways.

But this is why I am not out of the broom closet yet. Not for fear of what people might think of me, but for what people might do or say to my daughter. It's sad really that it has to be this way, I struggle with this thought everyday. The thought of following the norm..ya know. If she goes to catechism, believes in the catholic teachings, or other christian teachings, she will be considered, well, normal. Isn't that ridiculous? Anything outside the box is abnormal...I hate that about our society. I asked my husband this question, "what if when she gets older she doesn't want to be catholic, she wants to follow the pagan path? He replied, that's fine. I just want her to be able to defend herself, if the situation arises. Right now she is to young and doesn't know any better."
I thought i had better not push the issue farther than it needed to be at that point in time. I often wonder if any other pagan moms have thought of these many questions in their minds as well? Have they had similar struggles? Have they not come out of the broom closet for the sake of their child?  I wonder..... if I am alone with my thoughts, I so very much wonder.
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Artemisia vulgaris

Family: Compositae

Names: By Foot, felon herb, St. John’s Plant, Maiden Wort, Mother’s wort, womb’s wort, Mugwurz, powerwort, solstice girdle, thorwort; Echter Beifuss, Mugwurz, Gánsekraut, Belfuss, Beifuβ (German); armoise, armoise commune, herbe de St. Jean, Ceinture de Saint-Jean (French); artemisia, assenzio, amarelle, erba di San Giovanni, amarelle, campaccio, assenzio selvatico (Italian); zona diri Johannis, Artemisa común, ajenja, artemisia, hierba de San Juan (Spanish); Hao-shu, ai-hao, ch’i-ai, i-ts’ao, k’iai, chih-ts’ao, chiu-ts’ao (Chinese); bijvoet (Dutch); Harilik puju (Estonian); Berendjasef (Farsi); Pujo (Finnish); Liath lus (Gaelic); Fekete üröm, Anyafû, Taplóüröm (Hungarian); Nat (Laotian); Bylica pospolita (Polish); Gråbo (Swedish); artemisia verdaderia (Portuguese); afsantin-e-hindi (Arabic)

Description: A single-stemmed plant with floppy leaves. The height is up to 6 feet and a width of 1-2 feet. The flowers are tiny, redbrown, wooly, clustered on stem tips. The leaves are elongated oval, but deeply toothed on end into points; green top with fuzzy silver white underneath, to 4 inches long. Blooms from July to August. Native to Europe and Asia and naturalized in the US

Cultivation: This is a perennial to Zone 2-3. It germinates in 10-24 days. Space 1 foot apart in a soil with temperature of 65-70F. Soil preferred is dry or moist and it likes nitrogen and a pH of 5-8.5. Needs full sun. Can be propagated by seed or dividing clumps. In moist garden soil, it will spread rapidly by runners. Harvest stems to be used for moxa sticks from July to September when Mugwort is flowering. Cut plants a little above the ground and hang them singly upside down to dry in an airy, shaded spot. When dry strip the leaves and flowers from the stems. Mugwort root is best dug up in November.
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Constituents: Volatile oil containing linalool, 1,8-cineole, B-thujone, borneol, nerol, neryl acetate, linalyl acetate, myrcene, vulgarole, cadinenol, muurolol, spathulenol and others; Vulgarin, a sesquiterpene lactone; flavonoids: quercitin-3-glucoside, quercitin-3- rhamnoglucoside and 5,3’-dihydroxy-3,7,4’- trimethoxyflavone; coumarin derivatives: 7,8- methylendioxy-9- ethoxycoumarin; triterpenes such as 3B-hydroxurs-12-en-27,28-dionic acid, B-amyrin, B-sitosterol

Actions: bitter digestive tonic, uterine stimulant, stimulating nervine, menstrual regulator, antirheumatic, anthelmintic, antispasmodic, carminative, choleretic, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, orexigenic, stomachic, vermifuge

Character: bitter, pungent, drying, quite cold.

Meridians/Organs affected: liver, spleen, kidneys

History: Once known in Europe as the Mother of Herbs or Mater Herbarum, mugwort appears in ancient lore long before Dioscorides praised it in the 1st century. It was one of the 9 healing herbs of the Anglo-Saxons and is thought to be the girdle worn by St. John the Baptist in the Bible. When black tea prices rose in early-19thcentury Cornwall, England, it became a popular tea. Roman centurians reputedly placed it in their sandals to keep the soles of their feet in
good shape. The origins of its name appear to be as confused as the intoxicated state mugwort produces. Some suggest it originated with mygge, meaning “midge”—any small insect, such a a gant—or with the old English magat, or “maggot.” However, it is the wool moth that mugwort deters, and a better possibility would be mothe, Anglo-Saxon for “moth.” On the other hand, a few authors claim it comes from the Irish mugan, a mug that holds beer— mugwort beer. Dioscorides recounted that the goddess Artemis (who inspired the plant’s genus name) was believed to give succur to women in childbirth. A 13th century Welsh herbal The Physicians of Myddfai recommended “If a woman be unable to give birth to her child let the mugwort be bound to her left thigh. Let it be instantly removed when she has been delivered, lest there should be haemorrhage.”

An 18th century Spanish herbalist, Diego de Torres, recommended the application of a mugwort plaster below the navel as an effective method of inducing labor. In Poland, Mugwort collected from nine different fields would increase a woman’s fertility. A baby was bathed in mugwort and thyme in order to give the child strength. It was tucked in the eaves of the house in order to
protect it against “uncleanliness” on St. John’s Eve. Both mugwort and wormwood were placed in the coffin in the belief that it would delay decomposition of the body. A few long branches were sprinkled with sour milk and hung from a beam generally near the ceiling of the house. The flies then clustered on the branch and stopped plaguing the inhabitants. When enough flies had settled on the branch, two people cautiously approached it with an open sack and captured the insects. The sack would then be taken outside and disposed of.
Villagers wiped their hands in mugwort in order to keep the bees from stinging. .
Throughout the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and into modern times, European practitioners used mugwort almost exclusively as a woman’s remedy. A few who describe the healing properties are Hildegardof Bingen, Paracelsus and Culpepper. It was used to increase fertility, ease birth, stimulate the afterbirth, alleviate menstrual pains and balance menstrual irregularities. Mugwort is included in the bunch of herbs offered for Mary’s blessing on the Day of the Assumption in the southern Catholic regions of Germany. Some people burn Mugwort as incense in the stables on Assumption Day to protect the animals from disease. The name “by foot” comes from the belief that when bound to the legs it takes away the tiredness of travelers. One other intriguing sentiment about Mugwort is that it can aid in the magick of criminal detection.
A "superstition" exists that in Japan, placing a cone of Moxa in the footprint of a thief would cause the thief to get a "hot foot", that is he would feel a burning sensation as if the cone were on his foot.
During the Middle Ages, Russian physicians used it against epilepsy, while the Mongols massaged it into their calves to prevent cramping and muscle fatigue caused by horseback riding for a long time. During this time in all Northern European countries, on the feast day of St. John, dancers would leap around a fire wearing a crown made from mugwort to protect them from disease during the coming year. The French name armoise is taken from the Greek goddess Artemis who represents the emancipated woman. Language of Flowers: Happiness, tranquility, travel, “be not weary”
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Medicinal Uses: A digestive and tonic herb, mugwort has a wide variety of traditional uses. Milder in action than most other Artemisia species, it can be taken over the long term at a low dose to improve appetite, digestive function, promotes liver detoxification and absorption of nutrients. In addition to encouraging the elimination of worms, mugwort increases bile flow. Mugwort has long been used in the West to promote menstruation (yet is found in Chinese formulas to prevent miscarriage). Use a standard infusion of two teaspoons per cup of water steeped for 20 minutes, take ¼ cup flour times a day. A tea or compress was used to speed labor and help expel the afterbirth. Mugwort decreases external inflammation and, in both China and Europe, a poultice is traditionally placed on rheumatic and arthritic pains.

In Russia, it is extracted in vodka for swellings, wounds, and various skin problems. It is also a fairly effective poison oak treatment. Mugwort is also an antiseptic and has been used in the treatment of malaria. Mugwort is known to serve as substitute for tobacco, bearing the folk name, "Sailor's Tobacco". Likewise, it has been considered as a substitute for cannabis, in the sense that it has very mild relaxing, rather than inebriating properties, and the ability to offset symptoms of withdrawals from various substances of abuse. It is often cited as a herbal treatment for opium addiction. Additionally, it tends to have aromatic properties when burned that are reminiscent of cannabis when burned, therefore adding to its potential as a cannabis substitute. It makes a good foot bath for tired feet and legs. Cleansing to the liver, it promotes digestion. Mugwort is an emmenagogue, especially when combined with pennyroyal, blue cohosh, or angelica root. It is helpful in epilepsy, palsy, and hysteria and is useful for fevers.

Toxicity: Avoid large amounts or continued consumption which can adversely affect the nervous system. Don’t use while pregnant

Ritual Uses: Mugwort is prominent among many women’s covens to express adoration of the goddess Diana. It is said to protect travelers from fatigue, sunstroke, wild animals, and evil spirits. When cleaning a child’s room, mugwort water might be aspurged to protect one’s children. When your home is battered by a storm or when your life feels threatened by impending danger, it is believed that dried mugwort should be tossed into the hearth fire to keep you safe. A crown of it is worn at Midsummer. It is also used as a bathing herb prior to the shortest night offering many blessings. Bunches of dried mugwort from the previous year’s harvest may be tossed into the Midsummer fire.

A tea or a pillow of it brings vivid prophetic dreams and helps one to contact the astral realm. Use the tea and incense to help in scrying. Mugwort is used in magick to activate instruments of divination- crystal balls and magic mirror- although it is sometimes phrased that the role of Mugwort is to "cleanse" the instrument. Mugwort’s most striking claim to fame being magnetic in character, however, is that it is often known as "compass plant", owing to the fact that it’s leaves tend to arrange themselves with the North-South lines of the earth’s magnetic field. Worn as an amulet, the herb’s root bestowed strength and health.

*Material contained herein, is not intended to treat or diagnose, always use caution and educate yourself before using anything medicinally.
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I have been meaning to get this book for quite some time now, it arrived this past Monday, and I read it from front to back in about 4 hours. Yea, it was that damn good!

For those of you who, at one time or another, have been screwed over, pushed around, stepped on and belittled in life, and found that being a "Good Witch" just wasn't cutting it, then this book will open your eyes a bit. When I was reading Dorothy's intro, I knew I had the right book, because what she says, is how I have always felt. Always.

She covers much.....You know, those topics we don't ever want to talk about for fear of the related bad karma coming your way if we even udder a bad word? LOL Dorothy is a kick-ass woman who tells it like it is, and isn't afraid to write about it. Every self respecting, powerful, take matters into your own hands, hell hath no fury, witch, should and definatly NEEDS to have this in their arsenal. Out of every book I could ever recommend, this is the one, without a doubt.

When reading it, don't get squeemish...She covers alot of taboo topics. BUT it is very humorous as well. Dorothy even goes on to tell you why she began exploring different avenues to get a problem solved using magic. I dont want to spoil it, so that's all I'm gonna say!

Happy reading!!!!!!!
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The project that I had started a few months back is finally finished...thank Goddess! I can safely say I will not be doing another one of these...ever!!!!! Me, being the optimistic gal, figured I could complete this in a matter of weeks, not months....yea right. My attention for detail always puts a wrench in things I guess. Just when I am happy with it, I stand back and think, oh, i'll add this here, or that there. (sigh) My husband finally had to tell me no more, otherwise it will look to "busy".

Anyway, here it is, all 15 pounds of it. May not seem like much, but it is when you're going to hang it on a wall...hahahaha! Well I'll leave that problem to my dear hubby. hehehehe

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Here is a spell that comes truly from the heart. I had used this spell when my Grandfather fell ill with pneumonia, then it progressed into everything else. As it always seems to go. His lungs kept filling up with fluid and the doctors had run a battery of tests, and tried every possible thing they could to find out why. The last resort was a special surgery we all knew he would not make it out of. Long story short, I got my things together and started.

I worked this spell long and hard. All the way until he was better and then some just to be sure. In the end, the doctors couldn't find out what was wrong, but he got better on his own, and was able to come home after a month stint in that hospital. He was thrilled and so was I. Was it my spell? I believe it helped my grandfather along, after all, belief and faith in everything you do, proves results. It worked for me, and got my gramps back home. I hope you can use this spell to help either yourself, or someone you love.

You will need:

a small piece of paper
a pencil
1 cinnamon stick
a picture of yourself or of the person you which to send healing energies to.
a cotton cloth ( I used a flour sack kitchen towel)
1 white tea light candle
eucalyptus essential oil
lighter or matches
any herbs associated with your/the person affliction,( i.e. my grandfather had lung issues, so my healing herbs of choice, mullein, plantain, red clover, rosemary)
and most importantly, your strength and healing energies!!!!!

let's begin:

Cast your circle for spell work, but it is not needed, (as sometimes we need to do healing spells immediately.)
Take the picture of you or the person you wish to send healing energy to, and wrap the picture in your peice of white cotton cloth. Like a blanket, wrapping them in soft comfort.
next take the small piece of paper and write your/the persons name on it ( in my case Grandpa Levi)
Take the cinnamon stick and wrap the piece of paper around it, more towards the back of the stick because you will burn a little bit of the end of the cinnamon stick.

Light the cinnamon stick, and let it smolder a bit. Cinnamon boosts immunity and also is a ritual incense, it also gives correct frame of mind when doing healing work, increase your concentration, clairvoyance, and is an all around magikal healing herb. Which is why i used it, in the beginning of this spell to set the tone.
Next place any of your healing herbs on the picture and under the white cotton "blanket" to assist in the healing.

Get your white tea light candle out, and before lighting it, add to the candle, a few drops of eucalyptus. (Eucalyptus is an all around healing herb. It cleanses, and purifies, not to mention helps with breathing clear!) Place the candle on the affected body part which needs healing. (my case, my grandfather had lung issues, so I placed it on his chest.
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Next, with lighter in hand repeat this:

In the name of the Lord and Lady who breaths life into us all, (light the candle here) and say: I charge this candle as a magical tool for healing.

Then visualize you or the person you which to heal, being released of the pain, being released from the sickness that afflicts them or you. ( I visualized my grandfather, in his hospital bed, laying there sick, but slowly getting his energy back, laughing smiling, breathing easy, and I also pictured the sickness in his lungs pulling out of him, in a bluish haze, slowly floating away out the window into the air to be carried away from him. I took deep breathes, giving him my breath, helping him breath.

Visualize anything that will make your spell work for you!
The chant after you have a clear picture in your mind is as follows:

Magik mend, while this candle burns
Sickness will end and health return.
Wrap thee in cotton, bind thee with love.
Protection from pain, surrounds like a glove.
May the brightest of blessings, surround thee in light.
For thou art cared for, healing thoughts sent in flight.

Repeat chant 3 times.

then at the ending of the chant, end with: Harm to none, so mote it be.
Let the candle burn for 15 minutes. then blow out.
Repeat this spell for as long as you feel the need to, and then some, just to be sure.
I did this spell everyday, for a week and a half, for my grandpa.
Blessed be!
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Therapeutic Benefits of Eucalyptus


Eucalyptus Benefits for the Skin
Your skin mirrors what's going on inside your body, reflecting the performance of such major organs as the kidneys and liver. Eucalyptus is amoung those herbs that detoxify and cleanse the kidneys and liver, helping these organs to function efficiently, which in turn benefits the skin. Drinking 3 cups of eucalyptus tea a day can clear up acne and minor bacterial infections. Applied topically, the tea may produce healthier looking skin.

Eucalyptus Benefits for the Gums
The tissue-constricting tannins in eucalyptus make it an effective remedy for bleeding gums. Rinse with the tea two to three time daily.
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Eucalyptus Benefits for Steam Bath for Bronchitis
Bronchitis and sinus congestion can be eased by inhaling the steam from eucalyptus tea. Pour 1 quart of boiling water over 1 tablespoon of dried eucalyptus leaves., cover to seal in the volatile oil, and steep for 5 minutes. Drape a towel over your head and shoulders to form a tent over the tea. close your eyes and for 10 minutes, breathe in the steam. Use this facial steam daily until your symptoms abate. Caution: Do not leave young children unattended with the hot tea!

Eucalyptus Benefits for Compress for Inflammation
A traditional folk-medicine remedy, a eucalyptus compress is effective in treating painful joints, minor burns and sore muscles. the compress is particularly suitable for stiffness and swelling due to arthritis. Soak a clean cotton cloth in the cooled tea, wring out and apply 2 - 3 times a day for relief.

Eucalyptus Benefits for Gargle for Sore Throats
Make a cup of healing eucalyptus tea from equal parts of dried eucalyptus leaves and dried calendula flowers. The tannins in eucalyptus help reduce inflammation while calendula soothes. Let the tea cool, and then use it as a gargle 2 - 3 times a day until symptoms subside.
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Eucalyptus globulus
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Family: Myrtaceae

Names: blue gum, fever tree, Tasmanian blue eucalyptus, Tasmanian blue gum, Blue Gum Tree, Compact Blue Gum Eucalypt, Eucalipto, Eucalypt, Okaliptus, Stringy Bark Tree; Qahich’a waavu’it

Description: Tall, attractive tree growing to 195 feet or 115 in cooler climates. The trunk is smooth and cream colored with a covering of grayish-blue bark that peels off in narrowstrips. The narrow, leathery, sword-shaped leaves have a prominent mid-rib. They are studded with oil glands, fragrant and greenishblue color. Creamy-white flowers are borne on short flat stalks, followed by fruit that is concealed in an aromatic, camphor-scented, woody cup. It is hardy to zone 9. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to August. The scented flowers are hermaphrodite and are pollinated by bees.

Cultivation: Prefers a sunny position in a moderately fertile well-drained moisture retentive circum-neutral soil. Succeeds in most soils, tolerating poor and dry soils, especially those low in mineral elements. Established plants are drought tolerant. Plants should not be grown in frost pockets or windy sites. Requires a sheltered position, disliking cold, dry or desiccating winds. Eucalyptus species have not adopted a deciduous habit and continue to grow until it is too cold for them to do so. This makes them more susceptible to damage from sudden cold snaps. If temperature fluctuations are more gradual, as in a woodland for example, the plants have the opportunity to stop growing and become dormant, thus making them more cold resistant. A deep mulch around the roots to prevent the soil from freezing also helps the trees to survive cold conditions.
The members of this genus are remarkably adaptable however, there can be a dramatic increase in the hardiness of subsequent generations from the seed of survivors growing in temperate zones. Trees have been planted in marshy areas where they have the ability to reduce the wetness of the land (because they transpire so much water) thus getting rid of mosquitoes that were breeding there. Eucalyptus monocultures are an environmental disaster, they are voracious, allelopathic and encourage the worst possible attitudes to land use and conservation. A very fast growing tree, new growth can be up to 2.5 metres per year. Trees are gross feeders and can severely stunt the growth of nearby plants. Trees are very amenable to coppicing. Plants are shallow-rooting and, especially in windy areas, should be planted out into their permanent positions when small to ensure that they do not suffer from wind-rock.
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They strongly resent root disturbance and should be container grown before planting out into their permanent position. The flowers are rich in nectar and are a good bee crop. Seed - surface sow February/March in a sunny position in a greenhouse. Species that come from high altitudes appreciate 6 - 8 weeks cold stratification at 2°c. Pot up the seedlings into individual pots as soon as the second set of seed leaves has developed, if left longer than this they might not move well. Plant out into their permanent positions in early summer and give them some protection from the cold in their first winter. The seed can also be sown in June, the young trees being planted in their final positions in late spring of the following year. The seed has a long viability. Harvest the bark, roots, and leaves as needed.History: The “eu” and “kalypto” is of Greek origin, meaning “well” and “cover” referring to the covered stamens. The Australian Aborigines called it “Kino” and bound the leaves around serious wounds and it is still highly valued by both orthodox and herbal practitioners for its strongly germicidal, expectorant, and decongestant properties. It was introduced into Europe as an ornamental species around 1788 and was found to inhibit the growth of other plants in surrounding areas due to secreting a chemical poison into the soil.

Introduced into California in the 19th century and quickly used by desert Indians. Eucalyptus can store quantities of water in its roots, and for this reason, the tree was planted in swampy ‘fever districts’ to dry up the marshes and prevent outbreaks of malaria. Eucalyptus oil is commonly found in proprietary throat lozenges, while steam inhalations are particularly beneficial for clearing the head and chest of mucus and catarrh. Eucalyptus plantations destined for paper pulp have provoked severe criticism from environmentalists as some virgin forests have been cut down to make way for this fast-growing, water-loving species. This species is the national emblem of Tasmania.

Constituents: essential oil with cineole, pinene, limonene, cymene, phellandrene, terpinene, aromadendrene, ellagic and gallic acid, biter principle, resin, tannin

Properties: expectorant, stimulant, antibiotic, antiseptic, rubefacient, Antibacterial; Antiperiodic; Antispasmodic; Aromatic; Deodorant; Febrifuge; Hypoglycemic

Energetics: spicy, warm
Meridians/Organs affected: lungs, kidneys

Medicinal Uses: Eucalyptus leaves are a traditional Aboriginal herbal remedy. The leaves are distilled to produce eucalyptol, which is used internally to treat bronchitis, tuberculosis, and nose and throat inflammations. Vapor made by boiling the leaves, bark, or roots, or distilling them in water has been used as an inhalant for diphtheria, coughs, and respiratory ailments. Leaf poultices have been used to bring abscesses to a head. The leaves have been prepared for internal use to treat intestinal worms. A tea made from the leaves is a good treatment for coughs, colds, flu, croup, pneumonia and asthma. The essential oil found in the leaves is a powerful antiseptic and is used all over the world for relieving coughs and colds, sore throats and other infections. The essential oil is a common ingredient in many over-the-counter cold remedies. Extracts of the leaves have antibacterial activity. The antibiotic properties of the oil increase when it is old, because ozone is formed in it on exposure to air. It has a decided disinfectant action, destroying the lower forms of life. The oil can be used externally, applied to cuts, skin infections etc, it can also be inhaled for treating blocked nasal passages, it can be gargled for sore throat and can also be taken internally for a wide range of complaints.

An oleo- resin is exuded from the tree. It can also be obtained from the tree by making incisions in the trunk. This resin contains tannin and is powerfully astringent, it is used internally in the treatment of diarrhea and bladder inflammation, externally it is applied to cuts etc. The oil is one of the most powerful antiseptics. It may be combined with olive or sesame oil. As an ointment, rub it directly on the chest or back to relieve congestion in the

lungs. An emulsion is made by combining equal parts of the oil with powdered slippery elm or gum Arabic and water. After being well shaken, the mixture is taken internally in teaspoon doses for tuberculosis and other infections and inflammations of the lungs. The oil is rubbed over aching muscles or trauma sites to stimulate circulation and relieve pain and blood congestion.

Aromatherapy Uses:
Extraction: Essential oil by steam distillation from the fresh or partially dried leaves and young twigs.

Characteristics: A colorless mobile liquid (yellow on aging), with a somewhat harsh camphoraceous odor and woody-scent undertones
Blends well with: thyme, rosemary, lavender, marjoram, pine, cedarwood and lemon
Uses: Skin Care: burns, blisters, cuts herpes, insect bites, insect repellant, lice, skin infections, wounds Circulation, Muscular aches and pains, poor circulation, rheumatoid arthritis, sprains, etc.
Respiratoryasthma, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, sinusitis, throat infections

Genito-urinary System: cystitis, leucorrhea

Immune System: Chickenpox, colds, epidemics, flu, measles

Nervous System: Debility, headaches, neuralgia

Safety: Externally non-toxic, non-irritant (in dilution), non-sensitizing. Internally as little as

3.5ml has been reported as fatal.

Toxicity: Eucalyptus oil should be used infrequently since it is difficult to eliminate through the kidneys. Contraindicated for women who are pregnant or breast-feeding as well as anyone suffering from low blood sugar. Commission E says it is also contraindicated for persons suffering from inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and bile ducts, as well as severe liver disease.

Other Uses: The leaves and the essential oil in them are used as an insect repellent. The trees can also be planted in wet areas where mosquitoes abound. The ground will be dried out by the trees, making it unsuitable for the mosquitoes to breed. The essential oil is also in spot removers for cleaning off oil and grease. A yellow/brown dye is obtained from the young leaves. It does not require a mordant. Grey and green dyes are obtained from the young shoots. A dark green dye is obtained from the young bark. Wood - heavy, durable, fire resistant. An important timber species, it is used for construction, tool handles etc. It is also used as a source of pulp for paper.

Ritual Uses: Herb of the Moon and Pluto. Eucalyptus may be used to purify any space, whether preparing the temple or cleansing a home of unwanted energies.

Eucalyptus Tea Recipes
To make eucalyptus tea, pour 1 cup of boiled water over up to 1/2 teaspoon of the dried eucalyptus leaves, which can be found at most health-food stores. Cover and steep for 10 minutes; strain. Sweeten with honey, to taste. You can drink up to 2 - 3 cups a day.

Caution: In large doses eucalyptus can cause nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Don't use more than 1/2 teaspoon per cup of water.

Herbal Tea Recipe for Asthma & Bronchitis

1/2 ounce dried eucalyptus leaves
1 ounce dried coltsfoot leaves
1 ounce dried thyme leaves

Use one teaspoon of this herbal mixture per cup of boiling water. Make this tea mixture to help open a tight respiratory tract and congested lungs. The herbal ingredients in this tea are known for their antispasmodic and disinfectant properties.

Herbal Tea Recipe for Acne
1 ounce dried eucalyptus leaves
1 ounce dried dandelion roots and leaves mixture
3/4 ounce dried licorice root
3/4 ounce fennel seeds

Use 1 teaspoon of this herbal mixture per cup of boiling water. You can drink this herbal tea as prescribed above, or use it as a facial wash. Either way, it is effective in healing such skin conditions as acne.

Eucalyptus Tea Recipe for Head Colds
1/2 ounce dried eucalyptus leaves
1 ounce dried peppermint leaves
1/2 ounce dried chamomile flowers

Use 1 teaspoon of this herbal mixture per cup of boiling water. Sweeten with honey to taste. These herbs are prescribed for their decongestant and expectorant effects. Eucalyptus is antiseptic, as well, and is very helpful for a head cold, sinus congestion and the flu.
These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure or prevent any disease.
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I really just can't say enough about Scott's books. I love each and every one that I have bought. In this book, lots of folk lore, and spells for your house hold. I love folklore, and love how some of the "sayings" from different cultures are very similar to the old wives tales past down from my grandparents and my husbands grandparents.

For example, my husband and I were discussing some of the things we grew up hearing. He told me that his grandmother told him if he seen a ghost in the house to slam the door 3 times, this way the ghost would get caught in the door and the frame and leave. Sure enough, it was in this book as well. Different saying, but the same principal.

Scott covers every aspect of the home. Plants, pets, and even the garage, anything associated with your home is in this book. Clearly written and easy to understand. He starts off the chapter with the folklore associated with that particular part of the house, i.e. "thresholds/doorways." gives a few spells in that chapter then moves onto the next. At the end of the book, and in the very last chapters, is where all the goodies lie. Spells and charms to protect your home and loved ones. A truly engaging book. A must have for every Kitchen Witch!
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