Since the beginning of time, herbs have been used for magickal as well as medicinal purposes. In researching the medicinal aspect of this subject, I found I was inundated with a wealth of information, but, in researching the magickal aspect, found there was not enough information.

The practice of using herbs for medicinal purposes has lasted centuries because of their benefit to our bodies. They are safe, reliable and usually have minimal, if any, side effects. But, please keep in mind that, as with anything, taking large doses or taking them for too long a period can have detrimental effects.I DO NOT, in any way, suggest that using herbs should replace being under the care of a Health Practitioner, but, the with your health care practitioner, you might explore natural alternatives for remaining in good health or treating ailments. Please keep in mind that there are some plants that are poisonous and can have fatal effects if ingested. One should never ingest something without knowing exactly what they are taking!
Plants contain energies. Magickal Herbalism, as with any magick, is the use of those energies. These powers are harnessed to bring about needed changes in our lives.
This is a listing of some herbs and their medicinal and magickal uses. This is in no way a complete listing of herbs. There are many resources on medicinal uses and for magickal uses, I would suggest purchasing some books from your local bookstore. My favorites are Scott Cunningham's "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs" and Magickal Herbalism". I must confess though, that my favorite books related to witchcraft, wicca, herb, etc. are by Scott Cunningham, and I would recommend reading any of his books.

Capsules

This is the most popular way to take herbs because it't convenient and avoids bitter tastes. It also saves on preparation and provides an exact dose.

Decoction

Herbs are usually simmered for 10 to 20 minutes until approx. one third of the water has evaporated. This method is usually used to extract essences from harder or courser herbs such as barks and roots.

Extracts

A highly concentrated alcohol base in liquid form derived from pure herbs. This is another convenient way to take herbs, especially for those that cannot swallow capsules.

Formentation

This is an external application of herbs. A towel or cloth is soaked in the desired tea and then apply the warm cloth to the affected area. This is generally used for swelling, pain, colds and flu.

Infusion

This is the most common way of preparing herbs. Usually a teaspoon of the herb is placed in a cup and 1 cup of hot water added to it. It is the steeped for 3-5 minutes, strained and drunk.

Poultice

A warm mass of powered herb is applied directly to the skin. A hot, moist towel is then applied over the herb and left on util it cools. This method is used for swelling, pain, muscle spasms, etc.

Salve

In a pot, blend 3 ounces powered herb, 7 ounces cocoa butter or pure vegtable shortening and 1 ounce beeswax. Cover and put on low heat for 1-2 hours. When it is cooled, it should be firm and ready to use.

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This page is dedicated in memory of
Scott Cunningham 1956 - 1993

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FDA LISTS 9 DANGEROUS HERBS

The food and drug administration has released a list of nine herbs it says can cause serious adverse reactions. The gerbs include Chaparral, which has been promoted as a cancer cure and an acne treatment. Chapparal has been linked to six cases of liver inflammation, the FDA reports. Comfrey has been tied to at least seven cases of liver complication. Germander, touted by some herbalists as a weight loss aid, has been tied to 27 cases of liver inflammation and one death. Jin Bu Huan, an expensive Chinese patent medicine, has been tied to three cases of liver inflammation. Yohimbe, marketed as an aphrodisiac, has been tied to cases of kidney failure, seizure, and even death. A herbal preparation containing Stephania and magnolia has been implicated in 48 cases of severe kidney injury. Lobelia can suppress breathing, speed the heart, and possibly lead to coma or death. Ma huang, used in products for weight control and enhanced energy, has been associated with memory loss, high blood pressure, and stroke. The FDA also warns that willow bark seems capable of producing adverse reactions, although to date none have been reported. (Associated Press, 12/04/95)

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