Herbs, Flowers, and Trees

Oak Moss through Ylang Ylang

Oak Moss (Evernia prunastri):
• Element: Earth
• Planet: Jupiter
• Deities: Cernunnos, Herne, Woodland Gods.
• Properties: Money drawing

Oak (Quercus petraea):
Spirits of the forest known as dryads favored the oak in Greek mythology, and offerings were given to secure their favor and obtain their occult knowledge. Oak was the traditional wood used for the Yule log, and oak was burned in the Midsummer bale-fires. The goddess Brigid was associated with oak groves and with sacred springs. The Druids held the oak in high reverence, and sacred oak groves were employed for ritual and religious observances. A sacred oak once stood in Diana’s grove at Lake Nemi, guarded by the mystical character known as Rex Nemorensis. Egeria, a water nymph of the sacred spring at Nemi, was ritually wedded to the Oak God. The oak grove at Dodona in Greece was sacred to Zeus. A priestess attended the shrine whose spring was considered an oracle. It was her duty to interpret the words of Zeus within the sounds of running water. Herodotus reported that the oaks at Dodona possessed oracle powers. The oak tree, according to time honored superstition, offered shelter from both evil spirits and witchcraft. Anyone standing under an oak, or keeping boughs of oak in the home, was deemed safe from magical interference. Some people wore oak leaves for the same purpose or kept a few acorns in the house to ward off lightning. Cornish witchlore suggested that by hammering a nail into an oak tree a person could get relief from the pain of toothache, while Welsh witches advised that by rubbing sores on a piece of oak bark on Midsummer’s Day the skin would quickly heal. Couples unable to have children or patients suffering from hernias were recommended to embrace the oak so as to benefit from its magical powers. Oak trees planted at crossroads were considered to be the most magically potent.
• Element: Fire
• Planet: Sun
• Properties: The Oak is a sacred tree in many cultures. A witch will often seek out a grove of Oak to perform rites. It has always been considered unlucky to cut down an Oak. After getting permission from the tree’s Dryad, burn oak leaves for purification of ritual spaces. Oak is often used for all-purpose wands and they imbue great power. The acorns have been carried to increase fertility in women and to increase sexual appeal by men, preserve youth and to banish illness. Hang Oak over windows and doors to protect your house from evil spirits.

Olive Tree (Olea europaea):
Is a sacred tree in southern European paganism and witchcraft. In Aegean/Mediterranean mythology Athena/Minerva created the olive tree in a competition against Poseidon for mastery of an important seaport (Athens). Therefore the olive tree was considered sacred to Athena/Minerva. As a sacred item, olive oil was used as a fuel for temple lamps. The Greeks, Etruscans, and Romans carved many of their deity statues from olive wood. The olive, though primarily a symbol of peace, was also a Greek symbol of war in its association with Athena. Victory wreaths often sported both laurel and olive leaves. However, the olive was more noted as the symbol of the goddess Pax (latin for peace), under whose name messengers and other individuals often requested asylum. In ancient times, the olive tree was believed to be the dwelling place of the moon, and therefore it came to symbolize the moon. This symbolism tied the olive to the ancient Moon Virgin race, the prize being an olive branch. This race was an archaic form of the hieros gamos, the divine marriage of the sun god and moon goddess.

Onion:
• Element: Fire
• Planet: Mars
• Properties: Protection and healing. Place cut onions in a sick persons room to absorb the illness. Leave them overnight and throw away in the morning.

Orange (Citrus sinensis):

Common Names: Bigarade Orange, Portugal Orange, China Orange, Citrus dulcis

• Element: Fire, Water
• Planet: Sun, Jupiter
• Properties: Divination, Love, Luck, Money, Harmony, Joy, Warmth. The dried and powdered peel is added to love and fertility charms.

Orris Root (Iris germanica florentina):

Common Names: Florentine Iris, Queen Elizabeth Root

• Element: Water
• Planet: Venus
• Deities: Aphrodite, Erzulie, Venus
• Properties: Love, Attraction, Harmonious Relationships. Use in charms, amulets, sachets, incenses and baths.

Parsley (Petrosellinum sativum):
• Element: Air
• Planet: Mercury
• Properties: Fresh parsley leaves in tea form are a treatment for cramps, while dried root decoctions ease urinary infections and arthritis. Externally, crushed leaves relieve insect bites, and may be applied in poultice form to sprains.
• Uses: Widely used as a culinary herb.

Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata):

Common Names: May Pops, Passion Vine, Purple Passion Flower, Grandilla, Maracoc

• Element: Water
• Planet: Venus
• Deities: Hypnos, Hestia, Yemaya
• Properties: Peace, Sleep, Friendship, Calming

Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin):

Common Names: Pucha-pot, Patchouly

• Element: Earth
• Planet: Saturn, Venus
• Deities: Gaia, Saturn, Pan
• Properties: Fertility, Lust, Money, Protection, Divination. Aphrodisiac and attractant of lovers for either sex.

Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium):

Common Names: Lurk-in-the-Ditch, Mosquito Plant, Run-by-the-ground, Squaw Mint

• Element: Fire
• Planet: Mars
• Deities: Demeter
• Properties: Strength, Protection, Peace. Weariness, deters insects. Avoid Pennyroyal while pregnant.

Black Pepper (Piper nigrum):

Common Names: Piper

• Element: Fire
• Planet: Mars
• Properties: Protection, Strength, Irritation, Lust, Warding Charms, Protection Charms.

Peppermint (Mentha piperita):

Common Names: Brandy Mint, Lammint

• Element: Fire
• Planet: Mars
• Deities: Zeus
• Properties: Love, Psychic awareness, Lust, Mental Stimulant, Energy

Periwinkle:
• Element: Water
• Planet: Venus
• Properties: Protection against evil influences. Hang around doors and windows.

Pimpernel:
• Element: Air
• Planet: Mercury
• Properties: Wear to detect falsehood to prevent or know when others are lying to you.

Pine (Pinus pinaste):
• Element: Air
• Planet: Mars
• Deities: Atemis, Astarte
• Properties: Healing, Protection, Exorcism, Fertility, Money. Attunement to nature, centering, cleansing, productivity, purification against illness, a good winter incense.
• Uses: Pine buds prepared by decoction act as an expectorant and antiseptic. This same mixture can be used for inhalation for head colds, although it is easier to toss some needles in hot water. Green cones and needles can be added to bath water to ease muscle pains and swelling. For magic, pine is best suited for its aromatic qualities of bringing one back into balance, and enhancing connection with the natural world.

Plumeria (Plumeria acutifolia):

Common Names: Graveyard Flowers, Melta, Temple tree

• Element: Water
• Planet: Venus
• Deities: Buddha
• Properties: Love

Poppy (Papaver somniferum):

Common Names: Opium Poppy, Mawseed

• Element: Water
• Planet: Moon
• Deities: Venus
• Properties: Love, Lust. Eat poppy seeds as a fertility charm, just don’t take a urine test at work for a few days afterward. Carry the seeds or dried seed pod as a prosperity charm.

Primrose (Primula vulgaris):

Common Names: English Cowslip, Butter Rose, Password

• Element: Earth
• Planet: Venus
• Deities: Freya
• Properties: Protection, Love

Raspberry (Rubus idaeus):
• Element: Water
• Planet: Venus
• Deities: Innana, Isis, Oshun
• Properties: Love, Protection

Red Clover Tops (Trifolium pratense):

Common Names: Honeystalks, Shamrock, Trefoil, Trifoil

• Planet: Mercury
• Deities: Rowan
• Properties: Luck, Protection, Success, Anti-hexing, Love

Rose (Rosa centifolia):
The name rose comes for the Celtic rhodd, which means red, from which derived the Greek rhodon, which is the origin of the Latin rosa. This name remains much the same in all European languages. There are no doubts about the ancient origin of this flower. The first historical evidence of the rose is from the time of the Sumerians: their King, Sargon the First, who lived in 2684 BC, talks about “trees of roses” which he brough back from an expedition beyond the river Tauro. A common but beautiful flower with occult meanings and spiritual significance, ranging from beauty, to love, to blood. Among the Rosicrucians it is said to be a symbol of transcendental spirituality. A prevailing theory among occultists holds that the petals and fragrance of the rose are a terrible bane to all evil, including witches, werewolves, and vampires. Its aroma repels them, and its flowers burn them like acid. In Romania, specifically in Transylvania, a branch of the wild rose was placed across the body to prevent its return as a vampire. Placed upon a grave, the rose will supposedly trap a vampire within the earth.
• Element: Water
• Planet: Venus
• Deities: Adonis, Aphrodite, Aurora, Cupid, Hulda, Freya, Eros
• Properties: Love, Beauty, Psychic Powers, Divination, Healing, Luck, Protection
• Uses: Conserves of roses or rose petals in honey are often recommended for nausea and sore throats. Roses are high in Vitamin C.
• Practical Information: There are over one hundred species of roses which are found wild and they are also widely cultivated all over the world. Red roses are considered best for medicinal uses: as astringent, gastric, for headaches, for sore throats, as a heart and nerve tonic and as a blood purifier.

Rose Geranium (Pelagonium graveolens):
• Properties: Protection, Fertility, Love, Health

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis):
Rosmarinus comes from the Latin ros, dew, and marinus, sea; therefore the name means dew of the sea. The herb, in fact, grows spontaneously by the seaside. Rosemary has always been associated with remembrance, happy memories, fidelity, and love, and has always been used amply in witchcraft, bringing many legends with its history. Was often used to cleanse people and places of evil spirits. Like many other herbs, rosemary was alleged to have a range of supernatural properties including the ability to ward off the evil eye. Witchlore suggested that rosemary might also be administered to cure madness, to guard against nausea and nightmares, and to prevent storms. Many people pinned up a sprig of rosemary at the front door or wore it on their person in order to keep witches and disease at bay. Rosemary was commony used in love potions and in spells concerned with divination. Sleeping with a sixpence and a sprig of rosemary under the pillow on halloween, for instance, was said to draw forth visions of a person’s future partner. Wearing rosemary in the buttonhole also aided the memory and promoted a person’s luck in general.

Common Names: Elf Leaf, Sea Dew, Guardrobe, Polar Plant, Compass Weed, Dew of the Sea, Mary’s Cloak, Stella Maria, Star of the Sea, Incensier.

• Element: Fire
• Planet: Sun
• Deities: Virgin Mary, Elves, Sea Spirits
• Properties: Strega Magic, Mental Powers, Youth, Protection, Love, Lust, Purification, Sleep, Exorcism
• Uses: Promotes healing of wounds, acts as an antiseptic, and can be a mild stimulant. Good in teas for treating flu, stress, and headaches or body aches. Mental and physical booster. Used for treating (oil form) muscular sprains, arthritis, rheumatism, depression, fatigue, memory loss, migrane headaches, coughs, flu and diabetes. Excellent remedy for acne or cellulite. When the leaves are soaked in wine for two weeks, small glasses may be taken as a digestive aid. Oil of rosemary is excellent in hair conditioners, and the flowers of this herb may be added tolotion recipes to improve the complexion. Add to all purification bath sachets, love incenses, and protection incenses. Make a simple of rosemary and use it to cleanse the hands before working magic, if you have no time for a regular ritual bath. Burn rosemary and juniper as a healing and recuperation incense.
• Medicinal Properties: Rosemary is aromatic, digestive, antiseptic, stimulant, and antispasmodic. The branches with leaves are the parts used.

Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia):
Also known as mountain ash. On May 1, animals were passed through a large hoop made of rowan to protect them and ensure fertility. The tree was believed to be the home of benevolent fairies, and its presence near a home protected families from evil spirits. Carrying a bough of rowan was believed to protect anyone from being held captive in a fairy hill. In folk magic, the red berries of the rowan were soaked in water, which was then sprinkled around any area one wished to protect. In folklore the rowan is often paired with the ash tree as its feminine counterpart. In Scandinavian myth the first worman was formed from a rowan and the first man from an ash. The red berries of the rowan were considered sacred in any cultures, connected to themes of blood, life, death, and renewal. In Irish legend a sacred rowan was believed to possess the power to restore lost youth. Rowans were believed to be guarded by serpents and dragons. The rowan was also associated with Brigid and Brigantia, who were said to carry arrows made of rowan wood. Sacred to the Druids, and still respected for its protective properties, the rowan or mountain Ash, was once widely considered a powerful defense against witchcraft and the evil eye and it was therefore frequently planted in gardens and close to houses. In former times, farmers would often fix a bough of rowan wood at the door to the cowshed if they suspected that a witch was stealing milk from the herd by magical means. Individual animals could be protected from witches by fixing rowan twigs to their tails with lengths of red thread, and witches could be prevented from turning milk sour by slipping a stave of rowan wood into the pail. Driving a flock of sheep or other livestock through an arch of rowan was widely thought to ensure their immunity from the threat of witchcraft. Riders of horses sometimes carried whips made of rowan or wore a few sprigs of rowan in their hats for similar reasons. Rowan wood was often kept inside the house all year round in order to prevent evil spirits from entering, the wood being ceremonially replaced on May 3 (Holy Rood Day or Rowan-tree Day). In some cases, rowan wood was actually used for the construction of crossbeams and other parts of the house so that its benevolent effects might be enjoyed for as long as the house itself stood. Small pieces of rowan were also carried on the person or attached to the bedstead so as to deter evil, and rowan trees were often planted in graveyards to prevent witches from disturbing the dead. The power of rowan was best illustrated by the folk belief that if a witch was touched by a rowan stick he or she would be immediately hauled off to hell by the devil himself.

Common Names: Mountain Ash, Delight of the Eye, Quickbane, Ran Tree, Rowanberry, Thor’s Helper, Wicken-Tree, Wiky, Wild Ash, Witch Bark, Witchwood

• Element: Fire
• Planet: Sun
• Deities: Aphrodite, Druidic deities, Thor
• Properties: Protection, Psychism, Magical Power, Success, Anti-haunting

Rue (Ruta graveolens):
Rue traces its name to the Greek word ruta, meaning repentance. It has long been a symbol of sorrow and repentance and was called “herb of grace”, after the god-given grace that usually follows true repentance. Greeks used it to combat the nervousness they experienced when they had to eat with foreigners who were often suspected of evil powers. In Rome they used it to improve eyesight. Is one of the sacred herbs. The name of this herb is derived from the Greek reuo which means “to set free”. Rue was also known as the “Herb of Grace”-a spray of rue was used to sprinkle holy water at High Masses during the Medieval Period. In Italian Witchcraft it is associated with the Harvest Lord and is called the bitter essence of the God. In magic, it is often used as an herb of protection from the powers of darkness. In ancient times, rue had a reputation as a protection against harmful magic and the evil eye. The Greeks believed it had the power to neutralize evil potions. The Romans placed it upon their sacred altars as an offering. Pliny states that rue can strengthen weak eyesight. Italian witches used it to strengthen psychic vision, and as a protection against enchantment.

Common Names: Goats-Rue, Herb of Grace, Garden Rue, Mother of Herbs, Rewe, Ruta

• Element: Fire
• Planet: Sun, Mars
• Deities: Aradia, Pan, Diana, Hecate
• Properties: Mental Powers, Protection, Love, Curse-breaking, Reversing
• Medicinal Properties: Once they were used to remove warts, but even that practice resulted quite harmful. Rue should not be used medicinally without the supervision of a doctor. Also, when using it for magic, one must be very careful not to absorb the plant, either by drinking it or by putting it in close contact with the skin. The parts of this plant used medicinally are the tops; they are mostly used to cure palpitations in women going through menopause.

Saffron:
• Element: Fire
• Planet: Sun
• Properties: Prosperity, healing and sexual prowess in men.

Sage (Salvia officianalis):
The name salvia comes from the Latin salvare, to heal, for the curative properties of the plant. Sage was very highly considered in the Middle Ages, so much so that it was believed it could defeat death. This was partly due to her antiseptic qualities which enabled some who rubbed it on their skin to escape the contagion of the plague. Contrary to rosemary, it was said that when sage is flourishing outside a house, it is the man who is the boss of the household.

Common Names: Garden Sage, Red Sage

• Element: Earth, Air
• Planet: Jupiter, Saturn
• Deities: Consus, Obatala, Chiron
• Properties: Wisdom, Animal Guides, Wishes, Immortality.
• Uses: Can be used in an infusion to aid digestion, or as part of a honey wine to fight colds and fever. When applied in compresses it can ease many skin discomforts, including dandruff. If made into cream it is good for muscular pain, and if dried and smoked sometimes gives relief to asthma.
• Medicinal Properties: Sage stimulates the activity of the intestine and has a balsam effect on the respiratory system. It is digestive and aromatic, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, tonic and astringent. The parts used are the leaves and the flowery tops.

St. Johns Wort:
• Element: Fire
• Planet: Sun
• Properties: Protective charms, ward off fever and illness, a banishing or exorcism incense, the tea increases courage and will power. Gather on Midsummer’s Eve, pass through the smoke of bonfires to purify, and hang in the house as protection and to prevent nightmares.

Sandalwood (Santalum spicatum):
• Element: Water
• Planet: Moon, Sun
• Deities: Venus
• Properties: Spirituality, Protection, Wishes, Healing, Exorcism

Sassafras (Smilax ornata):
• Element: Fire
• Planet: Jupiter
• Properties: Health, Money

Saw Palmetto Berries (Serenoa repens):

Common Names: Dwarf Palm Tree, Cabbage Palm, Sabal

• Deities: Shango

Scullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora):

Common Names: Helmet Flower, Madweed, Hoodwort

• Element: Water
• Planet: Saturn
• Deities: Hera, Obatala
• Properties: Love, Relaxation, Peace, Fidelity

Slippery Elm Bark (Ulmus rubra):

Common Names: Sweet Elm, Indian Elm, Moose Elm, Red Elm

• Element: Air
• Planet: Saturn, Mercury
• Properties: Anti-gossip, Persuasion

Spearmint (Mentha spicata):

Common Names: Green Mint, Garden Mint, Lamb Mint, Mismin, Yerba Buena

• Element: Water,
• Planet: Venus
• Deities: Mercury
• Properties: Healing, Love, Mental Powers, Money

Spikenard (Aralia racemosa):

Common Names: Bitter Root, Nard, Nardo

• Element: Water
• Planet: Venus
• Properties: Good Luck, Fidelity, Health, Attraction

Stonecrop:
Flowering plant which often grows among rocks or on walls and was once reputed to ward off witches and other evils. Stonecrop was often brought inside the house in order to prevent witches from entering and to protect the inhabitants from fire and lightning. Witchlore also recommended extracts of stonecrop for the treatment of ulcers, piles, eye problems, scrofula and ague.

Strawberry (Fragaria vesca):
• Element: Water, Earth
• Planet: Venus
• Deities: Freya
• Properties: Love, Luck, Beauty, Divination

Sunflower (Helianthus annus):
Helianthus comes from the Greek word elios, sun, and anthos, floewr; that is “flower of the sun.” Annus means annual. InEurope, the sunflower was grown for the first time in 1562, in the royal garden of Madrid, from seeds imported from Peru and Mexico, where Atahuapla, the King God of the Incas had as his symbol a solid gold sunflower. In fact, the Incas believed the sunflower to have magical properties because of its geometrical perfection.
• Element: Fire
• Planet: Sun
• Properties: Welcomes and invites the blessings of the Sun into the garden. The seeds are eaten by women to increase fertility.
• Practical Information: Originally from Peru, the sunflower was introduced in Europe around 1600. It is now widely cultivated for its seed production but also for its use as an ornamental plant. Its seeds and flowery tops are also used medicinally. The seeds are good for nervous conditions and headaches and colds. The tops are diuretic and aid the digestion.

Sweet Pea:
• Element: Water
• Planet: Venus
• Properties: Friendship, Courage, Strength

Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus):
Fig-like fruit grows upon the stalk of the tree rather than on the branches, and therefore it is associated with Artemis of Ephesus, the many-breasted Mother Goddess. The fruit of the sycamore produces a milky fluid; the tree has been called the Mother tree and the Tree of Life.

Tangerine (Citrus reticulata):
• Element: Fire
• Planet: Sun
• Properties: Psychic powers, Mental Powers

Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia):
• Properties: Healing, Anti-fungal

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris):
The name thyme comes from the Greek thymia which means perfume. In the Middle Ages it was believed that sleeping on a pillow stuffed with thyme would dispel melancholy. It was also believed to inspire courage. According to another legend at midnight on Midsummer’s night, the king of the fairies and his followers dance on beds of wild thyme.

Common Names: Garden Thyme, Common Thyme

• Element: Water
• Planet: Venus
• Properties: Health, Courage, Purification, Attracting Faeries
• Uses: Powerful antibacterial, antibiotic, and diuretic properties. It helps eliminate wastes from the body. It is used in treating whooping coughs, warts, rheumatism and acne. A strong antiseptic which when prepared by infusion is useful for poor digestion, exhaustion, colds, and infections, and with honey is an effective treatment for sore throats. Also used in tea form as a fever breaker, headache reducer, and to be rid of intestinal worms, and can be used as a mouthwash. Also, a great insect repellent. Use both the leaves and flowers. This tea works best for headaches when taken cold. Take a magical cleansing bath in the spring of thyme and marjoram (Used in tea form or whole herbs). A pillow stuffed with it cures nightmares.
• Medicinal Properties: Thyme disinfects the digestive and respiratory apparatus, tones the entire system and stimulates the appetite and the digestion; therefore it is used for throat and bronchial problems, for gastritis and lack of appetite. It is also used as a mouthwash, and to make a purifying face mask. In the bath water, it improves bruises, swellings, and sprains. The whole herb is used.

Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum):
• Element: Fire
• Planet: Mars
• Properties: Banishing

Tonka Beans (Dipteryx odorata):

Common Names: Tonqua, Wish Beans, Coumaria Nut, Tonquin Bean

• Element: Water
• Planet: Venus
• Properties: Love, Luck, Money, Courage, Wishes

Tulip (Tulipa):
The word tulipa seems to be a degeneration of the name by which the Turks called the headdress of the Slavonian, which is tlban or turban. In fact the origin of this flower is in the East, and there it started its career about a thousand years ago. It grew wild in Persia. It was introduced in Europe around 1500.
• Practical Information: Tulips are available all year round in shops. They are also quite easy to grow.

Tumeric:
• Uses: Added to warm milk to regulate menstrual cycle.

Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis):

Common Names: Garden Heliotrope, Graveyard Dust, Phu, Setwell, Vandal Root.

• Element: Water,Earth
• Planet: Venus, Pluto, Mercury
• Deities: Obatala
• Properties: Sleep, Love, Mending quarrels
• Uses: Use the dried, powedered root. Promotes relaxation while counteracting the effects of insomnia, anxiety, nervousness, headaches, pre-menstrual syndrome and menstrual cramping. For sleep, before bed take 1 teaspoon of herb to 1 pint of water and simmer. Also acts as a good substitute for catnip. Use the fresh herb in spells of love, also to get fighting couples together. Used in the purification bath sachet.

Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia):
• Element: Water, Fire
• Planet: Venus, Jupiter
• Properties: Magical powers, Mental Powers, Love, Lust, Rejuvenation. The bean is used in love charms, the oil is worn as an aphrodisiac.

Vervain (Verbena officianlis):

Common Names: Brittanica, Enchanter’s Plant, Herba Sacra, Juno’s Tears, Holy Wort, Lemon Verbena, Van-Van.

• Element: Earth, Air
• Planet: Venus
• Deities: Aphrodite, Aradia, Artemis, Cerridwen, Hecate, Hermes, Innana, Isis, Juno, Jupiter, Kali, Mars, Thor, Venus, Zeus
• Properties: Love, Protection, Purification, Peace, Money, Youth, Healing. Ritual cleansing or sacred space, magical cleansing baths, purification incenses. Hang over the bed to prevent nightmares. Love and protection charms. Vervain is also excellent for use in prosperity charms and spells as it brings good luck and inspiration.

Vetivert (Vetiveria zizaniodes):

Common Names: Khus-Khus, Van-Van Root

• Element: Earth
• Planet: Venus
• Deities: Pan, Aphrodite
• Properties: Hex Breaking, Peace, Luck, Love, Protection, Exorcism, Voudoun magic

Violet (Viola odorata):

Common Names: Sweet Violet, Wild Violet, Blue Violet

• Element: Water, Air
• Planet: Venus
• Deities: Faeries, Io
• Properties: Animal guide work, Beauty, Wishes, Peace, Love, Luck, Lust, Protection, Transformation. Mix with lavender for a powerful love charm. A violet and lavender compress will aid in eliminating headaches. The flowers are carried as a good-luck charm. The scent will soothe, clear the mind and relax the wearer.

Sweet Violet (Viola odorata):
In Athens, violets were used to embellish homes and temples, and the Romans used it in enormous amounts to decorate banquets since they believed that violets had the power to defend them against drunkenness. In Athens, it was customary to cover the dead with violets to symbolize the beauty and the fragility of life. In Rome, violets were put on the graves of children, as a symbol of purity and modesty.
• Practical Information: Sweet Violet is a small European plant that is commonly cultivated and also grows wild in meadows, thickets, hedges, and along roadsides, and the edges of woods. Flowering time is March to May. The rootstock and flowers of this plant are also used medicinally. Garden Violet is primarily a herb for respiratory problems. A tea made from the leaves is a soothing gargle and relieves headaches. It is also used as a calming agent for insomnia and hysterical or nervous problems. The rootstock is collected in spring or autumn; the flowers, as soon as they come out in March.

Walnut (Juglans regia):
Is sacred in Roman mythology to Proserpina, Hecate, and Diana. In ancient Aegean/Mediterranean culture the walnut tree was believed to possess and impart the gift of prophecy. It was also believed to grant fertility, and traditionally a walnut tree was planted when a female was born to a family. When the daughter married the tree was cut and made into her marriage bed. A walnut liquore known as nocello has long been a traditional drink sipped on the summer solstice. In Perigord, from Peyrat to Terrasson, excavations have brought to light petrified shells of nuts that were roasted during the Neolithic period, more than 8,000 years ago. Around 2000 b.c. in Mesopotamia, the Chaldeans left inscriptions on clay tablets revealing the existence of walnut groves within the famed Hanging Gardens of Babylon. The walnut and the oil extracted from it, therefore, have been known since ancient times. Theory has it that the walnut may have disappeared in parts of northern Europe during the glacial period but was then reintroduced by barbarian invaders and by Greco-Roman conquerors. Once the tree was reestablished, the exploitation of its products spread steadily through increasing trade. In common with many other species of tree the walnut was reputed to have the power to ward off witches, though it was also claimed that some covens arranged to meet under walnut trees in foul weather (perhaps because the tree was supposed to be immune from lightning). Superstition had it that by placing a few walnuts under a chair any witch who sat in it would be immediately deprived of all power of movement. Walnuts had various uses in witchlore and folk remedies. Stewed walnuts were reputed to improve fertility in ancient times; in later centuries it was claimed that, if a person walked three times round a walnut tree at midnight on halloween and then looked up into the branches and asked for some nuts, the face of their true love would appear among the leaves. It was deemed dangerous, however, to fall asleep under a walnut tree, as the person concerned might fall into a sleep from which there was no awakening.
• Element: Fire
• Planet: Sun
• Properties: Carry the nut as a charm to promote fertility and strengthen the heart.

Whitethorn (Crataegus laevigata):
A species of hawthorn, with white flowers, possessed of potent anti-evil properties. It has been carved into stakes and has been placed in coffins with garlic to ensure that a corpse remains free of vampiric infection. Whitethorn was used in the latter fashion during the 1725 epidemic caused by Peter Plogojowitz in Kisolova.

Wild Cherry Bark (Prunus serotina):

Common Names: Sweet Cherry, Chokecherry, Virginian Prune, Black Cherry

• Planet: Venus
• Deities: Aphrodite, Freya, Kwan Yin
• Properties: Love, Romance, Seduction, Compassion

Willow (Salix alba):
Is a tree long associated with Witches and with Underworld goddesses such as Proserpina and hecate. The willow was also associated with the serpent, perhaps due to its slender branches, and the serpent was likewise sacred to Proserpina. The willow was also sacred to Ceres, Belenus, Artemis, and Mercury. The willow is a tree found near streams, rivers, and swamplands. The willow was associated in superstition with sorrow and lost love, but it also had some significance in witchlore. Although many people claimed it was unlucky to bring willow catkins into the house or to burn willow wood on the domestic hearth, it was agreed that certain varieties would ward off witches and the threat of the evil eye. Those particularly nervous of interference by witches were advised to carry a ‘sally rod’, a switch made of the great sallow, which was reputed to be immune to enchantment and was therefore a deterrent to evil. It was, however, unwise to thrash children with willow sticks as this would stunt their growth. Willow was much favored by sorcerers and witches as a wood for the making of magic wands as it promoted success in the casting of spells. In folk medicine, infusions of willow were reputed to be beneficial in the treatment of ague and against rheumatism (modern aspirin is based on salicylic acid, after salix, the latin name for the willow genus). Children suffering from rickets and other ailments were sometimes passed through a fork in a willow tree to effect a cure.
• Element: Water
• Planet: Moon
• Properties: Willow wands can be used for healing. The Willow will bring the blessings of the Moon upon those who plant it or have it on their property. Willows can be used to bind together witch’s brooms and a forked willow branch is widely used in water witching and dowsing.

Witch Hazel:
• Element: Fire
• Planet: Saturn, Sun
• Properties: Protection, Chastity, Healing the heart
• Uses: In tincture form it is good as a mouth rinse and to ease hemorrhoids. As a compress, witch hazel can be applied to insect bites and other skin irritations.

Witches Grass (Agropyrum repens):

Common Names: Couch Grass Rhizomes, Twitch-grass, Scotch Quelch, Quick-grass, Dog-grass

• Planet: Jupiter
• Properties: Happiness, Lust, Love, Exorcism

Wolfsbane:
Also wolfsbay, any of several plants of the aconite genus Aconitum, including A. napellus, providing a poisonous alkaloid used in medicine, with several colorful garden varieties, and A. lycoctonum, with hood shaped purplish-blue flowers. Credited with definite antievil powers, the plant has been wielded against vampires in certain parts of Europe, especially in Germany, and used in a manner similar to garlic-for example, placed in front of doors or windows.

Wormwood (Artemisia absintium):
The name artemisa comes from the Greek artemis, good and healthy, referring to the beneficial properties of the plant, and apsinthion, not liked, because of its bitter taste. In the Middle Ages, wormwood was recommended for magical practices. It was believed that a sprig of the herb hanging from the ceiling would preserve the house from evil. Yet in the Bible, this herb is called to represent all sins in the world because of its unpleasant taste.

Common Names: Absinthe, Old Woman, Crown for a King, Green Ginger

• Element: Fire
• Planet: Mars, Moon
• Deities: Isis, Artemis, Diana, Lakshmi, Aida Wedo, Sif, Innana
• Properties: Psychic powers, Animals, Calling spirits, Protection, Love, Transformation. Wormwood is burned to gain protection from wandering spirits. Used in divinatory and clairvoyance incenses, initiation rites and tests of courage. Enables the dead to be released from this plane so they may find peace.
• Medicinal Properties: The leaves and the flower tops are the parts of this plant used medicinally. It stimulates the nervous system and gives vitality and appetite, thus helping the liver and the stomach in their functions. It must be used with caution as it can be dangerous.

Wych Elm:
Otherwise called the ‘witch elm’, this tree was supposed to have various magical properties. The tree was widely regarded as lucky, and carrying a stick of wych elm was reputed to ward off all manner of evil. In order to prevent witches from interfering with the churning of butter,one defence was to slip a twig of wych elm into the churn.

Yarrow:
Herb that was once highly valued for its alleged magical properties, which included an ability to deter witches. Variously known as soldier’s woundwort, nose bleed, milfoil, devil’s plaything, thousand weed and bad man’s plaything, yarrow was believed to be a protective against evil, probably because in Christian legend it was the first herb held in the hand of the infant Jesus. Consequently, anyone who carried a little of it on their person was presumed safe from witchcraft. Witchlore suggested that anyone who slept with a little yarrow beneath their pillow would enjoy visions of their future partner in love, providing they first intoned the following ryhme:

Good night, fair yarrow,
Thrice good night to thee,
I hope before tomorrow’s dawn
My true love I shall see.

Yarrow taken from the grave of a young man was held to be the most magically potent. It was also believed to be useful in the treatment of nosebleeds and stomach upsets.

Yarrow Flowers (Achillea millefolium):

Common Names: Arrow Root, Bloodwort, Death Flower, Devil’s Nettle, Lady’s Mantle, Soldier’s Woundwort, Thousandleaf, Millefoil, Achillea, Carpenter’s Weed, Knight’s Milfoil, Sanguinary

• Element: Water, Earth
• Planet: Venus, Saturn
• Deities: Oshun, Yemaya
• Properties: Courage, Happy Marriage, Love, Psychic powers, Exorcism, Longevity.
• Uses: A very potent healer, it intensifies the medicinal action of other herbs taken with it. Helps eliminate toxins (good for colds). Most useful in its abilities to staunch blood flow. In poultice form, it is useful against infections and swelling. In magic there is evidence that yarrow was often used as a component in incantations. The tea drunk prior to divination will enhance one’s powers of perception (a touch of peppermint brightens this brew up and always works better). Also drink the tea to stop arthritis symptoms such as swelling and inflammation associated with weather divination and generally end all aching, sore muscles, or stiff joints or back pain. A powerful incense additive for divination and love spells.

Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis):

Common Names: Mate, Green Mate, Paraguay Te

Yerba Santa (Eriodictyon californicum):

Common Names: Bear Weed, Consumptive’s Weed, Gum Bush, Holy Herb, Mountain Balm, Sacred Herb, Tarweed

• Element: Earth
• Planet: Saturn
• Properties: Beauty, Healing, Psychic Powers, Protection, Spiritual strength

Yew:
Evergreen tree long associated with life after death and therefore also with the supernatural in general. Often planted in graveyards, the yew, with its poisonous leaves and dense timber, was believed to provide protection against witchcraft and to keep people safe from ghosts, the reason why it was also frequently planted close to houses. It has even been suggested that many churches were originally built in spots where they would be close to an existing yew tree, to enjoy the benefits it offered. Because of such notions it was thought unlucky to cut down a yew tree, as it was to bring any of its foliage into the house, for evil spirits might enter with it. Yew wood was formerly much favored for the making of dowsing rods and magic wands, although the fact that it was used for weapons of various kinds increased its reputation as an essentially malign tree. Young girls consulting witches to obtain a glimpse of a future partner in love, were sometimes advised to sleep with a sprig of yew under their pillow, with the proviso that the girl picked the sprig herself from a graveyard that she had never before visited.

Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata):
• Element: Water
• Properties: Faery Magic, Love, Lust, Peace

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