Magickal Preparations for Winter

Posted on October 23, 2014 by Amythyst Raine

1. Cleanse each room of energy debris…The negative stuff, the dark and ugly energy lurking in the corners and beneath the couch and chairs, the energy that hides in the cubbies and closets and scares those children who sense it…smudge, incense, burn candles, and bring out that magickal broom– sweep, sweep, sweep that space clean. Leave a wee bit of something behind to keep this space clear, to let the Dark Ones, the Spirits, and Ghosts know that you’ve reclaimed this space, that it is yours— a mojo bag of protection and deflection, some cleansing & protective herbs tied up in pretty bundles and tacked to the ceiling here and there, over the windows, or door frames. And never assume that cleansing this space once will keep it clear forever. Every once-in-a-while, light some candles & incense, send positive energy through this space. Keep your guard up, keep your magickal energy pure, draw your magickal lines in the sand.

2. Gather your harvest of herbs…As I write this, we’re just nine days out from Samhain. In my neck of the woods we’ve been incredibly lucky with the weather so far. We’ve had a couple really cold nights, only one where I had to cover anything, and we still have a lively garden. So now is my time to Gather Those Magickal Herbs & Plants!!. In the stillness of the Indian Summer days, I will clip and snip, tie and bind, hang and dry a variety of plants that will be tacked to my kitchen ceiling, crushed and added to bottles and jars, or arranged in pretty glass bowls. This is the season for the Green Witch to reap the harvests of Mother Earth, to restock her magickal cabinet. Hurry, before winter descends and the snow flies.

3. Put your garden to rest for the season, magickally speaking…The nature spirits have spent all summer fluttering about your garden, gracing it with health and a wealth of blossoms and buds. But it’s time now for nature to retreat into the depths of winter; it’s time for the plants to finish their final cycle; it’s time for the soil to rest. On a quiet still autumn day, take a white candle and some incense into your garden, thank the fairies and spirits for their care and presence and magick. Bid them adieu, until we meet again in spring. Scatter to the four corners of this magickal space crushed rosemary and sage, allow the candle to burn in the center of the garden, sending out healing energy for Nature, as well as a last flame of light before the darkness of winter descends. It’s sort of bitter-sweet, this process for me; but you can leave your garden with a wistful smile, knowing that this is only a temporary good-by, a temporary sleep. When spring comes, you’ll rejoice with the flowers and herbs and shrubs once more.

4. Prepare your vehicle for winter travel…Just like most people check the tires, change the oil, and mundanely “winterize” their vehicles in anticipation of severe winter weather conditions, so you will want to magickally “winterize” your vehicle, making sure there is a powerhouse of positive protective energy surrounding the vehicle itself and everyone who travels in it. This is an ongoing thing at our house. I use stone talismans created personally, decorated with symbols and words related to specific deities invoking their energy for protection. I use mojo bags filled with calamus root and plantain– one of the strongest combinations of herbs for safe travel– along with a tiger eye stone and even hair clippings from the car’s owner and people who will be routinely traveling in this vehicle. Smudge the vehicle with sage or a favorite incense; asperge (sprinkle) the vehicle with salted water for purification and blessings; anoint the four sides of the vehicle with Mars Astrological Ointment, dipping your finger in the oil and drawing an invoking pentagram discreetly near the bottom of the car doors. Settle into the coming winter months with the security of knowing that you’ve done all you can possibly do to assure safe travel for you and your family members

Rate this:

Green Witchcraft: Herbs & Planetary Connections

Posted on June 30, 2014 by Amythyst Raine

Old school Witchcraft 101…those of you who’ve thrown some magickal energy around (in a good way, of course), cast a few circles, chanted a few chants, those who have walked this path for any length of time and tapped into the magickal realm of witchcraft and wizardry, are going to be familiar with the information in this blog post, but be patient with me. This post is for the new kids on the block. (Better than being patient, why don’t you add your magickal two cents to this post with a comment by leaving some of your own wisdom for new witches to pick up on, things you’ve learned through your own experience and practice…thank you in advance.)

Below are the planets and their special energies and ten of my favorite herbs for each planet:

MOON— Day/Monday– this is the planet that is immersed in the energy of the goddess, feminine energy, intuition, inner mysteries, dreams, the filmy ethereal world of fairies and mythical creatures, and the element of Water

The herbs: calamus, lemon balm, gardenia, passion flower, jasmine, lotus, moonwort, myrrh, sandalwood, poppy, camellia

MERCURY— Day/Wednesday– this is the planet connected to communication and creativity, it centers on intelligence and wonderful lucid moments of awareness, and the element of Air

The herbs: fennel, lavender, lemongrass, marjoram, peppermint, almond, bittersweet, flax, horehound, lily of the valley

VENUS— Day/Friday– this is the planet connected to love and romance, beauty and luxury, it’s bathed in the warm glow of healthy narcissism and mutual attraction, sexuality, warm and fuzzy friendships, and the element of Water

The herbs: apple, aster, magnolia, hibiscus, foxglove, geranium, blackberry, corn, lilac, willow

MARS— Day/Tuesday– this is the harsh, hot, in-your-face energy of the warrior, it encompasses strength, it protects, it challenges, it sets boundaries and patrols the parameters of our world, on the watch for negative energy, and it is connected to the element of Fire

The herbs: cumin, garlic, ginger, holly, pine, tobacco, wormwood, coriander, allspice, hawthorn

JUPITER— Day/Thursday– this is the planet of growth and expansion, it touches and influences the financial commercial world we inhabit, it infiltrates the judicial system, the institutions that keep our society running smoothly, and it’s influenced by the element of Earth

The herbs: anise, dandelion, sage, nutmeg, witch grass, clove, honeysuckle, hyssop, maple, fig

SATURN— Day/Saturday– the dark side, the shadow world is found here, the place that so many tend to tip-toe through, but the energy so often needed, this is the planet that will bring the truth to light and punish those who have harmed others, and it’s connected with the element of Earth and Fire

The herbs: skullcap, slippery elm, wolf’s bane, morning glory (devil’s guts), hemlock, hemp, belladonna, comfrey, mimosa, knot weed

Rate this:

Find the Magick: Suave– Rosemary & Mint Shampoo

Posted on June 12, 2014 by Amythyst Raine

I have lots of hair, and I’ve tried lots of products– expensive and not– and I always come back to a tried and true shampoo and brand that’s always worked for me…Suave. The line that they have now, the one we’re going to look at in this post, is relatively new– or at least it is in our area. It’s in a sage green bottle, and it comes in a variety of herbal mixtures. I love them all, but the one I’m using right now is “Rosemary & Mint”.

So, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and look at some of the ingredients and the magickal energy:

Eucalyptus:
Element: Air; Planet: Moon; Energy: Feminine
Uses include great healing properties, kills germs, infections, eases lung congestion, heart stimulant. Attracts healing vibrations and protection. Use to purify and cleanse any space of unwanted energies. Also useful in dream and sleep pillows.

Spearmint:
Element: Water; Planet: Venus; Energy: Feminine
Healing, love and protection while sleeping. Burn for healing magick, especially for respiratory conditions. Carry for healing. Use in ritual baths for strength and vitality. Write a wish on paper and wrap it in spearmint leaves; place in a red cloth and sew with red thread, then keep in a safe and secret place — by the time the scent is gone, your wish should have come true.

Aloe:
Element: Water; Planet: Moon; Energy: Feminine
Protection and luck. Place on the grave of a loved one to promote peaceful energy. Thought to relieve loneliness and assist with success. Hang in the home to attract luck and protection for those who live there. Grow in the home to provide protection from household accidents. Burn on the night of a full moon to bring a new lover by the new moon.

Lemon Grass
Element: Air; Planet: Mercury; Energy: Masculine
Psychic cleansing and opening, used in lust potions.

Rosemary
Element: Fire; Planet: Sun; Energy: Masculine
Protection, love, lust, mental powers, exorcism, purification, healing, sleep, youth. Burn to purify and cleanse. Use in love and lust incenses and potions. Use for healing of all kinds. A tea of rosemary causes the mind to be alert. Circulatory, digestive and nerve stimulant. Heals headache, depression, and halitosis.

Lavender
Element: Air; Planet: Mercury; Energy: Masculine
Magickal uses include love, protection, healing, sleep, purification, and peace. Promotes healing from depression. Great in sleep pillows and bath spells. Believed to preserve chastity when mixed with rosemary. Burn the flowers to induce sleep and rest, then scatter the ashes around the home to bring peace and harmony. Use in love spells and sachets, especially those to attract men.

Rate this:

Herbs: The Magickal Acorn

Posted on June 9, 2014 by Amythyst Raine

The Acorn:

Good luck, protection, wisdom, and personal power. A dried acorn is an excellent natural amulet for keeping a youthful appearance.

Technically, I’m not sure if the acorn counts as an “herb”, since it springs from the mighty Oak Tree…however, I do know that it most definitely is full of magickal energy, and it is part of the sacred world of plants, so we’ll include it here. Just so you know, I have an entire glass container full of acorns for my own magickal use. 🙂

The lore:

The oak is a sacred tree to many cultures and spiritual practitioners, including the Druids. There is a Nordic tale of the great god Thor sheltering beneath a mighty oak tree during a storm. The goddess Diana is often depicted wearing a necklace of acorns. The Celts and Druids found the oak tree especially symbolic of the Samhain season. The tree is a symbol of the Horned God, Herne (or Cernunnos)

The acorn is considered the first sacred food of civilization. It’s symbolic of security and abundance, and it counteracts loneliness, illnesses, and pain. It’s energy aids in maintaining longevity, draws good luck, and preserves the illusion of youth.

You can identify your true love by labeling two acorn caps with your name and the name of your beloved. Float them in a bowl of water, if they drift together, you’ve made a successful match, if they float apart…so does your love.

For more magickal information on herbs,
follow this link:

Magickal Herbs

Rate this:

Find the Magick: Macaroni & Cheese

Posted on May 29, 2014 by Amythyst Raine

Here’s the recipe, which sounds delicious! We’re going to go through the ingredients and see just what kind of magick can be found in this simple popular dish:

Makes 4 servings

8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cups milk
1/4 cup butter
2 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1 pinch paprika

Directions:

1. Cook macaroni according to the package directions. Drain.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter or margarine over medium heat. Stir in enough flour to make a roux. Add milk to roux slowly, stirring constantly. Stir in cheeses, and cook over low heat until cheese is melted and the sauce is a little thick. Put macaroni in large casserole dish, and pour sauce over macaroni. Stir well.
3. Melt butter or margarine in a skillet over medium heat. Add breadcrumbs and brown. Spread over the macaroni and cheese to cover. Sprinkle with a little paprika.
4. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 30 minutes. Serve.

The Magick:

Paprika…Use to add energy to any spell or mixture. Throw in someone’s yard to cause them problems.
Also Called: African Pepper, Bird Pepper, Chili Pepper, Goat’s Pod, Grains of Paradise, Red Pepper, Sweet Pepper, Tabasco Pepper, Zanzibar Pepper, Capsicu

Wheat (found in the bread crumbs & the macaroni)…Induces fertility and conception, attracts money

Salt (if you add a dash)…Cleansing, purification, exorcism

The Divine Connection:

Wheat is a grain associated with the goddess Demeter:

“DEMETER was the great Olympian goddess of agriculture, grain, and bread, the prime sustenance of mankind. She also presided over the foremost of the Mystery Cults which promised its initiates the path to a blessed afterlife. Demeter was depicted as a mature woman, often crowned and holding sheaves of wheat and a torch…” For more info– lots more, click Here

Mother & Daughter
(Demeter and Persephone)

Rate this:

Herbs: Rosemary… “Dew of the Sea”

Posted on May 26, 2014 by Amythyst Raine

A Rosemary Summoning Spell:

Use rosemary and a pinch of Drawing Powder to summon someone to you that you have feelings for, or whose help you need. This could include someone you have romantic feelings for; someone you love in a platonic way; someone that you’re connected to through blood or circumstance; or someone whose help you need with an issue or personal problem. Think of this spell as a pied piper’s wiggling finger inferring, “Come hither.”

You will gather a handful of dried rosemary, a photo/signature/or name paper of the one you need to summon, and a lovely little fire– either outdoors in a nice fire pit, or a smaller adaptation in your cauldron.

When you get your fire burning properly, drop into it the photo/signature/or name paper; next, the rosemary, sprinkling it carefully so you don’t smother your flames. And finally, just a pinch of Drawing Powder.

As the flames consume the ingredients of your spell, chant:

“Blessed rosemary, I call unto thee;
Summon (name) to come to me.”

Courtesy of “Magickal Herbs” @ The Witch’s Corner:

Rosemary
Planet: Sun; Element: Fire: Energy: Masculine (projective)
Protection, love, lust, mental powers, exorcism, purification, healing, sleep, youth. Burn to purify and cleanse. Use in love and lust incenses and potions. Use for healing of all kinds. A tea of rosemary causes the mind to be alert. Circulatory, digestive and nerve stimulant. Heals headache, depression, and halitosis.

____________________

*Note: check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any herbal supplement,
especially if you are currently prescribed other medications.

Rate this:

Herb of the Week: St. John’s Wort

Posted on May 19, 2014 by Amythyst Raine

St. John’s Wort
Planet: Sun; Element: Fire; Energy: Masculine (projective)
Health, protection, strength, love divination, happiness, exorcism. A Druid sacred herb. Use in protection and exorcism spells and incenses of all kinds. Use as a tea to treat depression. Use the leaves in a necklace to ward off sickness and tension. Carry to strengthen your courage and conviction. Burn to banish negative thoughts and energies.

The teas are great, if you’re going to drink lots of tea to combat the doldrums, that is to kill anxiety and mild depression; but a more efficient way to ingest this drug, and to ingest it in the dosage that will actually do you some good, is to get the capsules. I finally broke down and bought a bottle at our local Wal-Mart, and I do have to say that this works. It sort of overrides that panic-stricken feeling people get sometimes when life is just moving too fast, too much coming at you, too many negative things to deal with, or too many high pressure things to deal with. The dosage on this over-the-counter herbal supplement reads “2 capsules three times a day, preferably with meals”. You have to use it for 2-3 weeks before you begin to feel the effects, but believe me, it’s worth it– and there are none of the negative side effects that you would find in many of the pharmaceuticals that are used as anti-anxiety medication.

As for the sacred herb itself and the magickal uses, this is one of the main herbs on my magickal shelf.

Source: Some of the info for this post was taken from…

http://www.ladyamythyst.com/magickal-herbs

*Note: check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any herbal supplement,
especially if you are currently prescribed other medications.

Rate this:

Find the Magick: in a cup of tea

Posted on April 9, 2014 by Amythyst Raine

In the spirit of Kitchen Wytchery, let’s find the magick in a cup of tea, and I’m not talking about a special cup of tea that we’re brewing just for some magickal mysterious purpose, but a ready-made tea purchased at the local grocery store. *These teas are chockfull of herbs which all contain magickal occult properties, something the average person is totally unaware of. We’re going through the ingredients to find out just what kind of energies we’re working with:

The tea: “Dream Easy”
The brand: “Hyvee” (a local grocery store chain here in the mid-west, this is their store brand)
The ingredients: chamomile, spearmint, lemon grass, tilia flowers, blackberry leaves, orange blossoms, hawthorn berries, rosebuds

The Magick:

1. Chamomile: energy/projective (masculine); planet/Sun; element/Water. First, I beg to differ with the source I’m using for this info, but I find the fact that this herb’s energy is masculine (projective) and it’s planetary association (the Sun) is also masculine, yet it’s linked to the feminine element of Water– I get it “sleepy time, relaxing, etc.”; and, Water, as in dreams. But this still doesn’t feel right to me– the sun, the energy, all points to the element of Fire. Just saying.

Magickal energies: for sleep, to promote calmness, but also for luck in money matters; used in issues dealing with god energy– men’s mysteries, men’s health, etc., healing energies in general.

2. Spearmint: energy/receptive (feminine); planet/Venus; element/Water.

Magickal energies: used to promote healing, especially of the lungs (respiratory issues); used to promote love– actually to generate a little lust it’s said, though this herb would not be my first choice in this matter, way too tame to ignite this kind of raw passion, if you ask me, spearmint would lend itself better to something quieter and more deliberate, like sultry seduction; used to sharpen your mental faculties, though the element used for this endeavor would best be left to Air. It’s also said that this is the herb you want to tuck into your pillow, or keep near your bed, as it will protect you at your most vulnerable– when you’re asleep.

3. Lemon grass: energy/projective (masculine); planet/Mercury; element/Air.

Magickal energies: This herb is used to repel snakes– though, unless they were poisonous or dangerous, I don’t know why anyone would deliberately want to repel snakes, unless they had some deep seated phobia. Snakes are beneficial to your garden, and reflective of wisdom and goddess energy. Lemon grass is also used to heighten your psychic awareness, and again, this is another herb used to enhance lust.

4. Tilia flowers: (also known as “linden flowers” or “lime flowers”) energy/receptive (feminine); planet/Venus; element/Water.

Magickal energies: the energies are geared to love, luck, sleep, rest, dreams, weddings, and beauty. What’s not to love about tilia flowers. The energy of the Linden trees are said to be protective, this is also a ‘tree of immortality’, which would lend it’s energy perfectly for magickal spells of eternal youth and beauty; this is a favorite herb for all kinds of love magicks. Make a dream pillow of equal parts lavender and tilia which promotes both restful sleep and prophetic dreams.

5. Blackberry leaves: energy/receptive (feminine); planet/Venus; element/Water. This herb is sacred to the old Celtic goddess Brighid, renowned for healing, poetry, and smithcraft. She’s most notably celebrated on February 2nd, a holiday called Imbolc.

Magickal energies: healing, money, and protection.

6. Orange Blossoms: energy/projective (masculine); planet/Sun; element/Fire.

Magickal energies: love (known as “Love Fruit”), divination, luck, and money. The dried peel and seeds are used in a wide array of love magick, whether it be candle magick, mojo bags, or dollies, and this magick is serious– whompom serious– this is magick geared to culminate with a walk down the aisle. (I think it’s a hoot that orange blossoms are tremendously popular in wedding bouquets, but the general public doesn’t have a clue as to why.) Enhance your beauty by adding orange seeds to your bath water, or by drinking orange juice with this intention. This adds a new dimension to the old saying “beautiful inside and out”, no kidding, there are many forms of beauty, and what you are inside is going to show on the outside. (There’s a few specific people I’d like to point this out to but, ahem, we’ll move on.) Orange blossoms are added to love and lust potions, and since the element here is Fire, use with discretion, I imagine these potions carry quite a punch. The divination aspect, specifically for yes/no questions– ask a question, eat an orange, count the seeds– even/yes; odd/no.

7. Hawthorn berries: energy/projective (masculine); planet/ Mars; element/Fire.

Magickal energies: fertility, chastity, fishing luck, happiness. Because of it’s ability to increase fertility, this herb was long used in wedding ceremonies; on the other side of this coin, and it’s quite a flip– the leaves of the Hawthorn tree are said to promote chastity. I would imagine that these leaves, along with nutmeg, could be used in some high-falutin fidelity magick, but this would best be done with extreme caution, or there might be a whole lot of people who are going to find themselves suddenly celibate when this is not the desired outcome. Carry these berries with you on fishing ventures to fill your nets (and your skillet); use these berries to help alleviate depression (magically speaking, mind you); and turn to the Hawthorn for protection from lightening and evil spirits.

The Hawthorn tree does have some weight in the world of the witch– they use to be used to decorate Maypoles for Beltaine, and as far as lore goes, it was believed that Hawthorn trees were actually witches who transformed themselves into the tree (to avoid being burned at the stake, no doubt). Hawthorn trees are sacred to the witch.

8. Rosebuds: energy/receptive (feminine); planet/Venus; element/Water.

Magickal energies: love (and divination for love), psychic powers, healing, protection.

Are you kidding, this is The Ultimate Herb used for all kinds of love magicks, bar none. It is the epitome of love magick, encompassing human coupling on every level imaginable, and many levels you haven’t imagined yet. It’s worn for this purpose, given as a gift for this purpose, used in candle magick, mojo bags, hoodoo dollies, and in any significant way that a practitioner can come up with; it’s been burned, buried, and frozen, all in the name of love. A tea made of rosebuds is drank at bedtime to promote healthy sleep and prophetic dreams– and what do you think the main topic of these dreams will be– you got it. Rosebuds and rosehips are used in spells to attract fairies to your garden, to heal minor aches and pains, as well as to relieve stress.

Now, drink your tea…

*Note: This statement is not meant to alarm anyone who doesn’t practice witchcraft. By using these teas, you are not inadvertently casting magick spells hither and thither. Remember– everything used and done to cast a spell must be used and done with intention. It’s all in the mind; it’s all in your purpose.

The sources for this article: “Encyclopedia of Magickal Herbs” by Scott Cunningham, and my own Book of Shadows

____________________

*Note: the photo is courtesy of Pinterest

Rate this:

Winter Solstice: December Magick, the Whys & Hows

Posted on December 21, 2013 by Amythyst Raine

Happy Winter Solstice!

December

Named for: “Decem”, meaning ‘ten’

Anglo-Saxon: Midwintra-monap

Birthstone: turquoise, zircon

Flower: holly, narcissus, poinsettia

December Moon Magick:

Oak Moon

Herbs: cedar wood, juniper, sage, star anise, carnation

Stones: lapis, smoky quartz, lazulite

Scents: violet, patchouli, frankincense, myrrh, rose geranium

Colors: red, white, black

Trees: pine, fir, holly

Deities: Hathor, Hecate, Athese

Elements: Fire/Water

Astrological Influences for December:

Sagittarius:

ruled by Jupiter, projective/masculine, mutable/fire

Capricorn:

ruled by Saturn, receptive/feminine, cardinal/earth

Pagan Holiday:

Winter Solstice/Yule

December 21

Winter Solstice…the longest day of darkness in the year; and with the darkness comes the promise of light, the rebirth of the Sun. It is no wonder, because of the importance of this date to the ancient pagans and the symbolism involved, that the Roman church chose this date to celebrate the birth of Christ.

This is the time that the brothers battle– the Holly King & the Oak King. The Oak King will win this fight with his brother, and light and warmth will return to the Earth.

Herbs: frankincense, myrrh, sage, bayberry, rosemary

Altar Flowers/Herbs: holly, mistletoe, pine cones, evergreen, thistle, cedar

Feast Foods: fruitcake, gingerbread, cranberries, dried fruit, eggnog, cider/wine

Animals: white buffalo, stag, weasels, owls, squirrels, blue jays, cardinals, doves

Incense: bayberry, cedar, frankincense, myrrh, orange, sage, rosemary

Rituals/Spells: hearth and home magick, lighting the Yule log, hopes and dreams spells, wishes

(The information above is from, “Natural Magick the Gray Witch Way”, by Amythyst Raine)

Magickal Herbs for the Holidays:

mortar_pestle-1.jpg picture by witch_of_endore

Holly

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Powers: Protection, anti-lightening, luck, dream magic

Magical Uses:

Holly is a protective herb used to keep you safe from lightening, poison, and evil spirits. Planted around the home, it keeps the occupants safe from black magic. Holly is said to tame wild animals, and holly water sprinkled on newborn babies will protect them.

This herb is carried to promote good luck– especially when carried by men, because its energy is masculine. At Yule time its hung around the house for good luck.

Its said that holly leaves added to a mojo bag and kept beneath your pillow will make your dreams come true.

Ivy

Gender: Feminine

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Powers: Protection, healing

Magical Uses:

Ivy is carried by women for good luck in general, and is traditionally carried by brides for this reason.

Where Ivy is grown or scattered, its suppose to guard against negativity and disaster. Its also used in fidelity and love charms and spells.

Ivy is magically “paired” with holly as a potent charm.

____________________

Magickal Stones for the Holiday Season:

To commemorate the season, we’re going to look at stones that promote “Peace”.

Sapphire

Energy: Receptive (feminine)

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Powers: Psychism, love, meditaiton, peace, defensive magic, healing, power, money

Magical Uses:

Sapphires are worn to awaken the third eye chakra and increase your psychic powers. This stone is said to be the ‘guardian of love’, promoting positive feelings and fidelity between couples. The sapphire also banishes envy, promotes positive social interaction, and is said to reconcile foes.

Sapphires are worn during meditation to induce a peaceful state.

Sodalite

Energy: Receptive (feminine)

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Powers: Healing, peace, meditation, wisdom

Magical Uses:

Sodalite is a healing stone used for emotionally related diseases, such as those caused by stress, nervousness, anger, or fear. This stone is said to dispel fear and guilt and to calm inner turmoil.

This is also a popular stone for meditation, said to promote wisdom.

Rate this:

Gingerbread: A Magickal Recipe for Yule

Posted on December 14, 2013 by Amythyst Raine

As the Kitchen Witch knows, natural magick can be found in certain foods and recipes with the use of herbs. Your most mundane everyday recipe can be chock full of magick. Most people would be surprised at how pertinent the use of certain spices and herbs are, particularly in holiday recipes centered around festivals and celebration. Following is a recipe for gingerbread, an old time favorite for this winter season; and following the recipe is a list of the ingredients used that contain the spark of magick.

m_BAshwood6-1.jpg picture by witch_of_endore

Gingerbread

2 1/2 cups flour 1 cup molasses

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup shortening

1 egg 1 1/2 tsp. baking soda

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon ginger

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 tsp. ground cloves

1 cup boiling water

In a large bowl, measure all the ingredients. With a mixer at low speed, beat until well mixed, constantly scraping the bowl with a rubber spatula. Beat at medium speed 3 minutes. Pour the batter into a pan and bake 55-60 minutes at 350 degrees

We’ll look at some of the ingredients now from a magickal perspective:

Cinnamon: Spirituality, success, healing, power, psychic powers, lust, protection, love

Ginger: Love, money, success, power

Salt: Purification, protection, grounding, money

Cloves: Protection, exorcism, love, money

Sugar: Love, lust

Rate this:

KATZ

Posted on November 18, 2013 by Amythyst Raine

It’s said of cats that they can move magickally through time and space, visiting the Land of Fairy, where no human can safely travel. It’s also said that cats can cross the boundaries of a magickal circle, a witch’s sacred space, without breaking the circle or disturbing the energy. Cats are also very sensitive to spirits and other paranormal entities, so watch your cat carefully, it will tell you when something is lurking about. We personally experienced this one day as my girls and I sat watching our calico cat mysteriously circle an invisible something in the middle of the living room floor. She tightly circled around it, hair standing on end, cautiously reaching inward to sniff whatever it was, and jerking her head back, as though to stay out of its reach. It suddenly startled her. She jumped straight in the air, all four feet off the ground, and took off racing out of the living-room. Had I not seen this with my own eyes, it would have been hard to believe. I’m glad I had witnesses to this truly remarkable incident.

It is especially unlucky to harm a black cat, as this is a favorite form for spirits to take, and not every black cat you see is actually a cat– but a spirit in disguise. Black cats have, over the centuries, suffered greatly because of their association with Witches and their reputation as Witches’ familiars. In Italy, even today, thousands of black cats are slaughtered every year in the name of superstition. It’s recommended to black cat owners here in the U.S. that they keep their felines indoors over Samhain (Halloween) night, as black cats are often targeted for abuse because of their connection to witches and this holiday.

Cats are independent, intelligent, not likely to suffer fools. They may be loyal, but the recipient of that loyalty must be deserving of it. Cats are agile, silent, cunning, excellent and vicious hunters, aloof, and sometimes lazy.

Catnip…Valerian…Rue

Catnip is commonly used in sleeping potions, and the herb is well-known for the intoxicating effect it has on cats. Catnip is also sacred to all Pagan Gods/Goddesses who manifest in the form of a cat or other feline creature– this would include the Egyptian goddess, Bast; as well as the Norse goddess, Freya.

Correspondences:

Element: Water; Planet: Venus; Energy: Feminine (receptive)
Used in animal magick and for healing pets, increases the psychic bond with animals. Use as a tea for happiness and relaxation. Can also be used during meditation, increases psychic abilities. Useful in love magick- try burning dried leaves for love wishes.

Valerian is used in sleeping potions and dream pillows. It’s said that the scent of valerian is irresistible to cats and if they find it in your garden, they will dig it up.

Correspondences:

Element: Water; Planet: Venus; Energy: Feminine (receptive)
Valerian is a muscle relaxant and tranquilizer. Use for dream magick and sleep protection baths. Keep in the home or grow in the garden to aid in keeping harmony. May be used to purify a ritual space. Useful in consecrating incense burners. Drink tea daily, in moderate doses, during times of purification.

Rue is used to keep cats away, whether from digging in your garden, or hunting the birds gathering around your feeders. This would probably also work to keep them off your bed and the kitchen table. Since I find my cats’ presence at both of these places enjoyable, I’ll forego the Rue at these spots. Cats dislike the scent of Rue, which is purported to have been used in the middle-ages as a talisman of protection against witches and their familiars.

Correspondences:

Element: Fire; Planet: Mars; Energy: Masculine (projective)
Use Rue in purification baths to break hexes or curses; use in exorcism incense; use the magick of Rue to return-to-sender any negative energy or negative magick sent your way. *Odd Note: it’s said that Rue works best when stolen and replanted in your garden, where it will– ironically– protect your home and grounds from thieves.

Cats are considered to be the animal that is the ally of gamblers and games of chance; they are believed to bring good luck and success in these endeavors. Following are spells of luck, gambling, and goddess invocation, through cat magick:

Lucky Cat Spell

Candles in the shape of cats are the figure candles most associated with gambling magic. Red, black or green candles may all be used. Let your intuition guide you:

1. Inscribe the candle with your name, identifying information, and any lucky numbers.

2. Dress it with Black Cat Oil, or another gamblers lucky oil.

3. Burn the candle.

Lucky Cat Candle Spell

Lucky cat candles help fulfill your wishes. Color coordinate to suit the nature of the wish: use green for money, red for love, and black to resolve problems.

1. Carve and dress the candle as you will.

2. Write your wish succinctly and explicitly on a piece of paper.

3. Burn the paper; use this paper to light the candle, rather than a match.

4. Murmur wishes, incantations, and sacred verses, at least until the paper has completely burned to ash.

Spirit Petition: Freya Cat Spell

There is an old Norse tradition of paying tribute to the goddess Freya by feeding milk to cats.

1. Put out milk for stray cats. If you don’t live in an area with stray cats, bring contributions to a shelter or adopt a gray stray cat.

2. Feeding isn’t done mundanely, by rote, but as a conscious offering; speak with Freya simultaneously, explain your needs, desires, or broken heart, and request assistance.

3. Pay attention– the response may come through the cats

Rate this:

The New Moon

Posted on September 5, 2013 by Amythyst Raine

New Moon:

The night of the dark moon represents a time to cast spells that will reveal secrets, a time to cast spells that will perpetuate beginnings. The time of the dark moon is also excellent for divination. Although some witches view this phase of the moon as a time to refrain from magic, the gray witch knows that now is the time to step into the shadows and grab the powerful energy found there.

September
Wine Moon

Herbs: lilac, mugwort, marjoram, rose, thyme

Stones: sapphire, bloodstone, rainbow obsidian

Scents: gardenia, rose, lilac

Colors: brown, yellow-green, amber

Trees: hazel, larch, bay

Deities: Demeter, Ceres, Isis,

Astrological Signs: Virgo, Libra

Elements: Earth/Air

Crafting Your Magic: Feminine energy is highlighted, receptive energy. Cast magic to draw inward, magic to draw those things– both intangible and material– to you that you need to fill the void. The Goddess is in the spotlight. Work magic to benefit female issues, such as fertility, independence, and protection.

The Wine Moon works its magic in the area of love and relationships. Cast spells to discover your soul mate, find a lost love, or nurture a secret desire. The energy of Libra will bring balance to all magic cast at this time, and its energy promotes the very essence of love and sex. Cast spells now to promote healthy sexuality and to maintain or regain physical health of the reproductive system.

Concentrate on the third eye chakra, opening the doors to psychic experiences. Prepare to enter the autumnal dark months with the clairvoyant vision to see well beyond, into the light of the future.

___________________

The above material is an excerpt from:

The Gray Witch’s Grimoire

by Amythyst Raine

Rate this:

October’s Magick

Posted on October 5, 2012 by Amythyst Raine

October

Named for: “Octo”, meaning ‘eight’

Anglo-Saxon: Win-monap

Birthstone: opal, tourmaline

Flower: calendula

October Moon Magick:

Blood Moon

Herbs: ginger, myrrh, allspice, basil, clove

Stones: alexandrite, citrine, lilac kunzite

Scents: pine, patchouli

Colors: dark green, brown, gold

Trees: yew, cypress, maple, oak

Deities: Astarte, Horned God, Lakshmi, Ishtar

Elements: Air/Water

Astrological Influences for October:

Libra: ruled by Venus, projective/masculine, cardinal, air

Scorpio: ruled by Mars, receptive/feminine, fixed/water

Pagan Holiday:

Samhain

October 31

Samhain (pronounced ‘Sou-wen’) is a celebration that has a more somber side than the revelry of modern Halloween. It is a day of remembrance of your ancestors and for those family members who have passed over.

Pagan families may set an extra place at the supper table on this evening, to honor those loved ones who are no longer with them. The veil between the world of the living and the dead is thinnest on this eve, and this night is an excellent time to perform divination, or try to connect with those from the other side.

Herbs: patchouli, sage, heather

Altar Flowers/Herbs: acorns, apples, pumpkins/gourds, dittany, autumn leaves

Feast Foods: pumpkin, squash, nut breads, sweet potatoes, milled drinks (cider, wine), roast meat, root vegetables

Animals: bats, cats, crows, ravens, owls

Incense: cinnamon, cloves, myrrh, patchouli, pine, mugwort, nutmeg
Rituals/Spells: making besoms, divination, spirit contact, crone magick, working with dark energy, spells for new beginnings

Crafting Your Magic
Ancestral magic is cast with the Blood Moon. Do magic now to communicate with family members who have passed, to connect with your ancestors and your heritage. Magic surrounding divination is relevant, it’s the perfect time. Cast spells for justice and balance, and to overthrow anything oppressive which may be blocking your path to success. Ambition is highlighted, use magic to increase the potency of your own, or cast magic to contain ambition that may have run amok. This is also the perfect time to step into the dark shadows and take advantage of the vibrations found there. The gray witch revels in the magic of the Blood Moon and in this season.

Magickal Herbs

In the tradition of Samhain, we’re going to look at herbs used to call up spirits.

Mugwort
To bring forth protective & benevolent spirits, Mugwort is burned on charcoal with star anise, althea, and resin incenses like frankincense, myrrh, copal, or benzoin.
Energy: feminine/receptive
Planet: Venus
Element: Earth
Powers: strength, psychic powers, protection, prophetic dreams, healing, astral projection

Dandelion
The root, when dried, roasted, and ground like coffee, is used to make a tea. This infusion will promote psychic powers. This same tea, steaming and placed beside the bed, will call spirits.
Energy: masculine/projective
Planet: Jupiter
Element: Air
Powers: divination, wishes, calling spirits

Thistle
To call Spirits, place some thistle in boiling water. Remove from heat and lie or sit beside it. As the steam rises call the spirits and listen carefully; they may answer your questions.
Energy: masculine/projective
Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Powers: strength, protection, healing, exorcism, hex-breaking

Wormwood
Wormwood is burned to summon spirits. It is sometimes mixed with sandalwood for this purpose. If burned in graveyards the spirits of the dead will rise and speak, according to old grimoires.
Energy: masculine/projective
Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Powers: psychic powers, protection, love, calling spirits

Sweetgrass
Burn sweetgrass to attract good spirits, or beings, before performing spells.
(Strangely enough, I couldn’t find any correspondences listed for sweetgrass, other than it’s power to call in spirits.)

Disclaimer: Never ingest any herbs, or feed them to someone else,
if you are not absolutely sure they are safe!

Kitchen Wytchery

Elsie204.jpg kitchen witch 2 picture by witch_of_endore

As the Kitchen Witch knows, natural magick can be found in certain foods, recipes, as well as herbs. In this section we’re going to put this knowledge to work.

Witches-Kitchenbymagic_art.jpg icon kitchen witch picture by witch_of_endore

We celebrate Samhain at our house big time. I’m going to include in this newsletter my own recipe for pumpkin pie & my ‘secret’ recipe for the large pot of hot apple cider that is a tradition at our house. The photos included are family photos of Samhains past.

My Pumpkin Pie:

1 16 oz. can pumpkin (about 2 cups)

1 13 oz. can evaporated milk (but sometimes I use sweetened condensed milk– it makes it more ‘chiffony’…is that a word?)

2 eggs 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 sugar

the spices:

Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and a dash of salt. Most recipes call for 1/2 teaspoon each, but I’m much more generous with my spices!

the crust:

I tried for years to learn to make a good pie crust, and I almost gave up out of frustration– then I found this recipe. It’s almost foolproof, no kidding.

2 and 1/2 cups flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup shortening 1 beaten egg 1 tablespoon vinegar 1/4 cup water

Mix the dry ingredients together and cut in the shortening, as usual. Then combine the egg and vinegar, stirring it up a bit, and add this to your dry ingredients. Add the water a dash at a time as you work it in, you’ll be able to tell when you get a good texture.

Edit: I bake this pie at 425 degrees for the first 15 minutes; then I turn the oven down to 400 degrees for the next 30-45 minutes, until it’s cooked enough to thicken the filling. I check this by sticking a clean butter knife in the center– when the knife comes out “clean”, I know the pie is done.

falldivider.gif picture by witch_of_endore

Hot Apple Cider
I have a *Huge*– did I say huge?– kettle that I use to mix up my cider. This sits and simmers all afternoon on the backburner of my stove, wafting a wonderful aroma throughout the house.

Ingredients:

5-7 large jugs of applejuice 8-10 bags of peach tea a handful of cinnamon sticks and a large metal tea ball filled with whole cloves and allspice.

You can leave a shaker of nutmeg sit on the counter & anyone who wants to add a dash of this spice to their mug of apple cider can do so. If you don’t like this cider full force, you can dilute it some with water to suit your own taste.

Our kitchen isn’t as organized as Rachel Ray’s or Martha Stewart’s, but we get the job done. Above are kettles of cider brewing in preparation for a Samhain evening.

Let’s take a look at the ingredients we just used from a magickal perspective:

Peaches— love

Nutmeg— one of the most popular uses for nutmeg is to assure fidelity. It’s also used for spells centered around luck, money, and health.

Cinnamon— spirituality, success, healing, power, psychic powers, lust, protection, love

Allspice— money, luck, healing

Cloves— protection, exorcism, love, money

Apple— love, healing, garden magic, immortality