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Complete Listing of all previous Herbs of the Month

Welcome to the Herb Archives! �Here you will find each herb that has appeared as a featured Herb of the Month on this page. �They are listed in alphabetical order, please click the herb(s) which interested you to check them out. �Each listing includes growing and identifing information as well as astrological assignations, medicinal uses, and folklore/ritual information. �Enjoy! Depending on your processor this page may take a few moments to fully load.

Agrimony � � Alder � Angelica � Balm (lemon) � �Basil � �Bay � �Betony (wood & water) � �Bilberry

Black Haw � �Blackberry � �Blessed Thistle � �Blood Root � �Boneset � �Burdock � �Caraway

Catnip � Celandine (greater &� lesser) �� Chamomiles � �Chickweed � �Cinnamon

AGRIMONY--Agrimonia Eupatoria
It draweth forth thorns and splinters of wood, nails or any other such thing gotten into the flesh.
Culpepper

This plant has long leaves dented around the edges and green above and gray-ish below they are a little hairy. It has a strong round hair brown stalk. Grows two to three feet high with small yellow flowers one above the other in long spikes. It is perennial. It can be found growing upon banks near the sides of hedges and flowers in Midsummer with the seed ripening shortly after.

Astrology: Ruled by Jupiter and the sign of Cancer.

Medicinal Uses: This agrimony is mainly used as a gastro-intestinal tonic. It is also useful for coughs, skin eruptions and cystitis. All of its medicinal properties are water soluable and so the best way to administer it is in an infusion of 1 oz. dried herb to 1 pint of boiling water. Small doses are given frequently. A cooled tea makes a wonderful wash for wounds and skin erruptions.

Folklore: This herb was once said to be useful for sleep when used in a dream pillow and was of such a nature that one would remain asleep until the Agrimony was removed.

Magickal Uses: This herb has a long history of being used in psychic healing and in aura cleansings. It enjoys a long history of being used in Counter-Magick for it is said to repel all forms of negative energies.

AGRIMONY--(water) Bidens Tripartta
It kills worms and cleanseth the body of sharp humours which are the cause of itch and scab.
Culpepper

This plant is also known as Bur Marigold, Water Hemp, Bastard Hemp and Bastard Agrimony. It is a short to medicum hieght annual with dull yellowish-brown flowers borne on erect stems This plant can be found by sides of ponds and ditches and by running water. It flowers in Midsummer and the seeds ripen shortly after.

Astrology: This plant is of Jupiter and belongs to the sign of Cancer.

Medicinal Uses: A valuable herb with a wide range of properties and used for the treatment of fevers urinary tract disorders renal and respiratory diseases. It cantains natural antiseptics. Some people recommend it for menstrual problems particularly when there is a problem with excessive blood loss. Make an infusion of one oz. herb to one pint boiling water. Drink 2-3 fl. ounces three to four times a day. (top)

ALDER- (common) alnus glutinosa
The leaves gathered while the morning dew is on them and brought into a chamber troubled with fleas will gather them thereunto, which being
suddenly cast out, will rid the chamber of these troublesome bedfellows.
Culpepper
Common Alder grows to roughtly 65 feet in height and produces purple/red catkins which change to a green/yellow. It can be found growing in moist woods and watery places. it flowers from mid to late spring and yields a ripe seed in early autumn.

Astrology: It is under the dominion of Venus.

Medicinal Uses: The bark and leaves are used a tonic. A decoction is made from one ounce of dried bark to a pint of boiling water. This has astringent properties and is used as a gargle for sore throats and pharyngitis in doses of two to three fluid ouncex. The bark may be taken as a tonic powder in doses of a half to one teaspoonful or mixed with a little Goldenseal and infused in a pint of water, taken in doses of two
fluid ounces for dyspepsia.

Folkore: Galen, a Greek physician of the second century AD knew of Alder although he did not distinguish clearly in his writings between it and other related species. All were credited at various times with the power to protect against witchcraft demons, poisions and headaches. Alders wood was formerly used for shoes lasts, nails and veneer. Its charcoal was prized by makers of gunpowder. The bark yields a yellow dye and the unripe berries a green dye. (top)

ANGELICA---Angelica Archangelica Umbelliferae
Our physicians blasphemously call Tansies or Heart's Ease, an herb for
the Trinity because it is of three colours, and they call a certain ointments, an ointment of the Apostles because it consists of 12
ingredients. Alas! I am sorry for their folly and grieved at their blasphemy. God send themwisdom the rest of their age, for they have their share of ignorance already. Some call this an herb of the Holy Ghost; others more moderate called it Angelica, because of its angelical vitures.
Culpepper
ANGELICA is a perennial plant that grows to about five or six feet high and has large leaves and flat heads of flowers with a greenish-white coloring. It is a common garden plant but also grows wild preferring humid environments. It flowers from early to late summer.

Astrology: Angelica is a herb of the Sun in Leo.

Medicinal uses: It is used as an anti-dyspeptic and for flatulence (gas). It is useful for cleansing the lungs and in the treatment of colds, persistent coughs and conditions which cause a build up of phlegm in the lungs. It has also been used to treat chronic bronchitits and to ease problems of emphysems. An infusion is made from the bruised root or whole herbs one oz of herb to one pt of boiling water, administer in doses of two fl. oz.
An oinment may be made fromt he root by boiling it in paraffin wax and straining before cool. Use this for minor skin probelms and for rheumatic pain. The stems preserved with sugar are served as
confections. The seeds are used in the making of vermouth and other alcoholic beverages. Use of this herb should be avoided by diabetic persons because of its sugar content.

Folklore: This herb has long been associated with protection from evil in all forms and was considered to be a most important herb in the protection against the plague.

Magickal uses: As we've said this herb is an herb of Protection and has a long history of use inwork against spells, enchantments and all forms of evil. Not only does it grant protection from negative energies but its use also brings good or positive energy into ones life. The use of Angelica in bathing brings a most healthy aura and a radiance of joyful postive energy to the psychic self. It is said to be an herb of Atlantis
and is currently used in mediation as an incense and ritual drink. This is said to bring one in touch with Atlantean energies, visions and understandings. It may be worn intact as an amulet. It is said to bring a deeper understanding of inner light, insight and inspiration in the purpose that the self may hold for bettering the world and the wisdom of being in touch with that part of the inner self which is truly
immortal. Angelica has also been used as a Visionary herb to increase one's ability to see into other realities and times. Ritually, Angelica may be used to commune with the Archangel Michael. (top)

BALM (Lemon Balm) Melissa Officinalis
It is a very good herb to help digestion and open obstructions of the brain, and hath so much purging quality in it as to expel those
melancholy vapours from the spirits and blood which are in the heart and arteries,a lthough it conndot do so in other parts of the body.
Culpepper
This herb is very well known, is also called Sweet Balm or Lemon Balm. The leaves are set in pairs upon the stem, the flowers in whorls above each pair. It is a common garden plant but it is native to the mountainous regions of Europe. It likes a sunny spot in the garden and should be watched closely because, like other mints, it can grow quite rapidly and take over a spot in the garden. It flowers from Midsummer to
early autumn.

Astrology: It is an herb of Jupiter and under Cancer and strengthens the body in all its actions.

Medicinal Uses: This wonderful mild herb may be taken freely in an infusion even by children. Standard infusion is one ounce of leaves to a pint of boiling water. It is helpful to induce persperation in people suffering from colds and flu. It helps with lung congestion and is also good as a digestive aid, and helping with upset stomachs, vomiting and nausea. Also helpful for women suffering from painful or supressed
menstruation. This infusion has a mildly calming effect and may be used before bed to aid in sleep.

Folklore: This herb is commonly used in charms to attract love and romance to the wearer. Also used in the bath for the same purpose. �(top)

BASIL---Ocumum Basilicum
This is the herb which all authors are together by the ears about, and rail at one another, like lawyers. Galen and Dioscorides hold it not
fitting to taken be taken inwardly, and Chrysippus rails at it with downright Billingsgate rhetoric: Pliny and the Arabian physicians defend it.
Culpepper

Basil is a common garden plant most often referred to as Sweet Basil. It has one upright stalk that branches on all sides with two leaves at every joint. It flowers from mid to later summer with the flowers being small and white. This is an annual plant which will die off quickly after flowering. To prevent this from happening before you're ready constantly snip off the flowering buds as soon as you see them. Basil likes a sunny spot in the garden but can be grow with great success in pots.

Astrology: This is an herb of Mars under Scorpio.

Medicinal Uses: It is of course a very popular culinary herb used widely in tomato dishes. As a medicine it should be taken in the form of an infusion and is good to help expel flatulence and help ease griping pains in the abdomen. For fevers, espcially those accompanying cold or flu an infusion of basil with three or four powdered black peppercorns is recommended.It may also be used externally for minor cuts, scratches, abrasions and �bug bites and stings.Macerate the leaves and apply to the wound.

Folklore:Once reveered as an Religious herb, sacred to the dieties of the Hindu faith and as a Funeral herb. As a funeral herb it is planted upon the grave and used in the Rituals of the Dead as an incense. In some areas of Europe even though removed from knowledge of each other all found basil as a symbol love. Grieves tells us this of the Moldavians, Cretes and Italians.
Today it is used as a Magkcal herb associated with the Rite of Initiation as it brings spiritual courage in times of difficults. it is of wonderful value inbringing compassion to those who share a meal and an herb which can bring kitchen magick to the cook.It is also considered to be a Fertility herb and may be used to invoke Krishna an Vishnu and releases uf from the fears of having a psychic vision. It protects against the known and the unknown and from fears associated with spiritual growth.It has strong associations with the dragon-like Basilisk and is probably the reason why today it is associated with salamanders and dragons. It can be used to invoke the presence of these astal and mythological creatures. It may be burnt as incense to invoke them or taken as a ritual drink to commune with these providers of inspiration and protection. (top)

BAY TREE, BAY LAUREL
(Laurus Nobilis)
The berries mightly expel the wind and provoke urine, help the mother, and kill the worms. The leaves also work the like effects.
Culpepper

Bay grows in woodland areas and prefers warm climates like the Mediterranean. It blooms in mid to late spring. In areas that have more than just the occasional frost it is probably wise to attempt to grow this perennial in a pot, placed in a sunny location and brought into a cool bright area in the winter. It can be propagated byseed,cuttings or layering in any kind of soil. It is a tree that can be trimmed to a desired shape.

Astrology: Bay is a tree of the Sun under the celestial sign of Leo.

Medicinal Uses: An oil of Bay leaves is very good to use externally on areas affected by rheumatism. The oil is also good when used on bruises, damaged muscile, where the skin has not been broke, and as an anodyne for earache.
It is not used internally as it has strong stimulatn and some narcotic properties. Large doses will cause vomiting, a rise in blood pressure
and quickening of the pulse.

Folklore: Bay has a history of use in attracting love, this may be done by burning the leaves or by using the oil to annoint a candle which is then lit for meditation. It holds prominence among the Greeks who used it to show honor for the victorious athletes and was a religious herb of the preistesses at Delphi, where they chewed them as they proclaimed their insight andvisions.(THIS IS NOT RECOMMENDED!) A current practice is to make a wish box, decorated and constructed with bay leaves inside and given to a friend. The friend may thenmake a wish during the course of the waxing moon.It is said that this tree will protect one from thunderstorms, probably due to its association with Apollo, in his apect as player of the lute. Bay may be used ritually to invoke Apollo.
For the Tarot reader or student bay may aid in the understanding of the Sun card. �(top)


BETONY (Wood)--Betonica Officinalis
It is a very precious herb that is cerrain and most fitting to be kept in a mans house, both in syrup, conserve, oil, ointment and plaister. The flowers are usually conserved.
Culpepper

This plant has many leaves rising from the root, which are broad and round at the end and dented at the edges. The stalks are small, square, slender upright and hair. It produces serveral spiked head of flowers like Lavender but spotted with white spots. The whole plant is somewhat small. It grows int he woods and preferrs shady spots. It flowers in Midsummer.

ASTROLOGY: This plant is designted to Jupiter and the sign of Aries.

MEDICINAL USES: Wood Betony is used by both herbalists and homoepaths. The homoeopathic tincture is made from the fresh leaves and used to treat simple diarrhoes. The herb is used for its aromatic, astringent and blood purifying properties. It can be used as a tincture of fluid extract. It is also sedative and anti-spasmodic and can be used to treat migraine and digestive troubles. For home use an infusion can be made from the dried herb in the ratio of one ounce of herb to a pint of boiling water. take two ounces three times a day. The root should not be used.

FOLKLORE: It is referred to as "Wood" Betony (as opposed to water Betony below) because it preferrs to grow in a woody environment. It has long been used as a Countermagick herb and wasoften planted in church yards for protection. It has been worn as ana amulet and there are many historical references to its uses. Grieve tells us of several customs surrounding it's use but one of the most fascinating is this:
"Many extravagant superstitions grew up round Betony. One being that serpents would fight and kill each other if placed within a ring composed of Betony and others declared that even wild beasts recognized its efficacy, and used it if wounded, and that stages, if wounded with a dart, would search out Betony and eating it be cured."

BETONY (Water)---Betonica Aquatica
The distilled water of the leaves is used to bathe the face and hands spotted or blemished or discoloured by sun burning.
Culpepper

This plant is also known as Water Figwort with the botanical name of Scrophularia auriculata. It is not related to Wood Betony, although it does resemble it. It is also known as Brown wort and Bishop's leaves. It rises up with square hard stalks set with dark green leaves. The flowers are many, set at the tops of the stalks and branches, and are redish
purple. It grows by the sides of ditches, brooks and other watery places. It flowers in midsummer and the seed is ripe towards the end ofthe summer.

ASTROLOGY: This is an herb of Jupiter in Cancer.

MEDICINAL USES: Not to be taken internally. The leaves of this plant are applied externally in the form of a poultice to hemrrhoids, ulcers and wounds which are not too severe. (top)


BILBERRY (vaccinium myrtillus)
It is a pity they are used no more in physic than they are.
Culpepper

This herb is also known as Whortlesberries. There are two types, the black and th red berries. The small bush bering the black berries creeps along the ground and has small dark green leaves with small pinish colored flowers. The Whortle-bush has leaves like Box Tree leaves, green and round-pointed, which stay on all through the winter.
This plant can be found in most wooded areas and blooms early to mid spring with the fruit being ripe from mid to late summer.

ASTROLOGY: This is an herb under Jupiter.

MEDICINAL USES: Billberries act as an astrigent diuretic. The dried berries administered in the form of a decoction are effective in diarrhea and dystentery. A tincture of the leaves is hypoglycaemic and is indicated as a diabetic remedy. NOTE: NOT a cure for diabetes! But it may aid some diabetics, especially Type II diabetics in keeping blood sugar levels under control. It is NOT to be used instead of your daily insulin routine. For home use an infustion is made in the ration of one teaspoon of leaves to one cup boiling water. Homeopathic tablets are available for use by diabetics. The black Bilberries are good to use to coll the heat of liver and stomach. They bind the stomach and are good to use for people with excess vomiting. The jucie may be made into a syrup or the pulp made into a conserve with sugar and is good for the mentioned purposes and for
old coughs or an ulcer in the lungs.
The Red berries are more binding than the black and stop the menstrucal cycle, spitting of blood. �(top)

BLACK HAW (Viburnum prunifolium)
Black Haw is probably better known by it's other common name of CRAMP BARK, it is also known as American Slow and Stagbush. It is a shrub or tree which can grow up to 30 feet. The gray to reddish brown bark is rough and cracked into small plates on older trees. Heavily beined and finely toothed leaves are elliptical and grow in opporsite pairs. Tiny white flowers in round topped clusters are followed by fruits that turn bluish black when ripe. This plant flowers from April to May with the fruit being ripe, normally, in late June. It is a native of the United States and grows wild from Connecticut to Michigan and south to Florida
and Texas. It is usually found in thickets, woods, rocky hillsides and shores bordering streams.

ASTROLOGY: This herb falls under the dominon of Saturn.

MEDICINAL USES: The bark of this tree is very good in the treatment of convulsions, hysteria nd will also help to calm spasms cused by coughing fits. It may also be used in the treatment of severe stomach cramsp and all manners of nervous troubles. The bark contains valerianci acid and will have a slightly bitter flavor. Other than being used for its antispasmodic properities it is also used in the treatment of rheumatisim, arthritis and heart disorders.Traditionally an extract of the boiled bark has been used as a uterine tonic and as a medicine to prevent abortion or miscarriage. For internal use a moderate decoction is indicated....one pint of boiling water to one half ounce bark simmer for twenty minutes take in 1/4 cup amounts taken three times a day but not for longer than three days. For use in the treatment of female disorders it is recommended that Black Haw be combined with False Unicorn for the best effect. A cousin to Black Haw (Viburnum prunifolium) is HIGHBUSH CRANBERRY (Viburnum opulus), the two are often confused and some times used interchangeable. Both share the same Common Name of CRAMP BARK. High
Bush Cranberry is also known as: Cranberry Bush, Cranbery Tree, European Cranberry Bush, Guelder Rose, Pembina, Pimbina, Snowball Tree, Whitten Tree. Both are in the Honey suckle family.
In the wild one can tell the difference between the two as HighBush Cranberry grows to a height of 12 feeleaves which are more maple-like in appearance. Its flowers are white in flat topped snowball clusters and the fruit becomes cranberry red when fully mature. The uncooked berries are poisonous...only eat the berries AFTER fully cooking them! Highbush Cranberry is good for use as an antispasmodic for menstrual cramps. For this purpose a tea is recommended. The American Indians used this plants to help ease the pain of childbirth and they may have been the original discoverer of both Highbush Cranberry and Black Haw's medicinal values. They also empoyed Highbush Cranberry as a rememdy for mumps and as diuretic. It is important to remember that Highbush Cranberry is not a true cranberry but received that name for the color
of its fruit which is rich in vitamin C. But as I said do not eat the fruit until it's been fully cooked first..then it may be combined with honey or maple sap and used as jelly if so desired. (top)

BLACKBERRY --(Rubus fruitcosus)
The leaves of the Bramble boiled in water with honey, allum and a little white wine added thereto, make a most excelent lotion or wadhing wter to
beale the sores in the mouth, the private parts of man or woman and the same decoction fastneth the teeth.
Gerard

Blackberries or Brambles are well known to almost all of us, probably from our childhood days when we stuffed ourselves full of the wonderful berries straight from the bush. The stems can easily grow four or five feet long stretching out and mingling with other branches to form thick patches. The stalked is very prickled and the leaves grow in threes. The berries are only a deep red-black when ripe.

ASTROLOGY: This is a plant of Venus in Aries.

MEDICINAL USES: This really is a must for the herbalist. it is one of the most useful herbs in the treatment of diarrhea and particularly when that condition results frominfluenza (the flu). The leaves and berries may be used. The berries being rich in vitamins can be very useful when treating persons who are run-down and anemic. It is has long been used as a gargle for sore throats and laryngitis. A strong infusion of Blackberry will help to clear up psoriasis. Blackberries are Yin and as such are a blood nourishing tonic. Generally the leaves are used for mucus discharges, fevers, colds and sore throats. The root bark used for diarrhea, dysentery and bleeding.

FOLKLORE: As we said the branches tend to grow together and as such they
form a thick bramble that passing through or beneath is quite difficult. For this reason, I believe, old lore says that "creeping 'neath the Bramble is a sure prevention against disease." It is also said that Blackberry collected at just the right phase of the moon is a powerful charm against evil things which may be written against you, negative energies. However old lore usually neglects to mention the time for picking. Since it is an herb of Venus in Aries I believe the correct time for performing this would be when the Moon and Venus are conjunct in Aries. Preferrably with the waxing moon. (top)

Blessed Thistle---(Cnicus benedictus)
It is said to have obtained its name from its high reputation as a heal-all, being suppposed even to cure the plague...
Grieve
Blessed Thistle looks like a member of the Thistle family. This annual plants grows to about knee-high, and branches out to support a weighted load of blossoms and leaves. The flowers reflect the color of the sun and grow amid prickles and thistle-hairs. It flowers from May-August. It was introduced from Europe and is now naturalized in many parts of North America. it can be found growing wild in waste places and roadsides.

Astrology: Blessed Thistles is ruled by Mars.

Medicinal Uses: Avoid large doses of this herb as it is a strong emetic. However it is also this property which makes this a needed herb for the herbalist, it brings about vomiting with minimal discomforts and can be used in emergency cases where a toxic substance has been ingested and must be removed by causing the person to vomit up the contents of the stomach. Be sure to check with Poison Control before inducing vomiting
in any instance where a poison has been swallowed! Not all poisons should be vomited up.
Mild doeses of Blessed Thistle are useful when the stomach is recovering from the flu or is in a similiar weakened state. It helps stimulate the appetite and keep the stmach balanced and contented.
It may also be effective as a treatment for infections.This herb is normally taken as a mild infusion.

Folklore:Blessed Thistles has been use a Religious herb and to invoke the God
Pan. For this use it is traditionally used as incense or may used in small doses in the ritual cup. It was also widely used to remove the bad energies of a hex. (top)

BLOOD ROOT (Sanguinaria candenisis)
True Blood Root is not to be confused with Erect Cinquefoil (Potentilla erecta). Thought they share the same Common Name these plants are not even in the same family.True Blood Root, also known as Indian Paint, Red Puccoon, Redroot , Sweet Slumber and Tetterwort can be found usually in fairly wet places in the wild on banks, fields and woods. It is a low growing perennila which has an orange-red rhizome (underground stem) from which solitary blooms emerge from March to May. The bloom is enveloped in a single leap that enlarges after flowering and is pale green and lobed. The white flowers usually have eight petals.
This plant is not considered safe to use internally.

Astrology: This plant is under the dominion of Venus in Scorpio

Medicinal Uses: As I said, do not use this plant internally. Externally, however, it is very useful. The root should decocted into a strongliquid with water. Do this by boiling the root in just enough water to cover it for twenty minutes or so. This may then be applied to an area infected with ringworm or eczema and will cure the disruption. The root may also be made into a powder or poultice or ointment to be applied to athlete's foot and other fungoid conditions.If you're the crafty or adventerous type the root also makes a very nice
dye for clothing.Native Americans used this plant to dye their clothing as well as painting their bodily parts. (top)

BONESET (Eupatorium perfoliatum)
This herb is also known as Agueweed, Crosswort, Feverwort, Indian Sage and Thoroughwort. It is a rather hairy perennial which grows between 2 and 5 feet tall. The lance shped wrinkled looking toothed leaves grow in opposite pairs and are joined at their bases around the stem making it appear that the stem is growing through the leaves. The whitish flower head born July-October are flat topped clusters at the top of the stem.
It can be found growing in prairies, wet shores, swamp edges and low woods. And is native to North America it is found from Quebec to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas.

Astrology: This plant is ruled by Venus

Medicinal Uses: Boneset is a relaxant which works on the muscular structures, stomach, gall ducts, bowels and uterus. Taken as a cold infusion it works as a soothing and relaxing agent to the stoamch and liver, aiding the secretion of bile and providing a mild laxative effect. A warm infusion is a reliable diaphoretic, providing a slow and gentle persperation for the treatment of colds, fevers and flus. It also relieves the aching pains of rheumatism.Infusions, warm and cold, are made from the flowers and leaves of the plant.
Folklore: This herb was usede xtensively by Native Americans. Its name is said to have come from the days of the early settlers and pioneers when a rampant influenze swept the plains, inflictings its victims with excruciating pain, as if all the bones were broke. Boneset was used to treat this flu. (top)

BURDOCK (Arctium lappa)

....The juice of the leaves given to drink with honey, procureth urine, and taketh away the paines of the bladder.
Gerard

Burdock, also known as Bur, Cockle Buttons and Great Burdock, is a tall coarse bi-ennial weed. Native to Europe it now grows wild from Wuebec to Michigan and south to Pennsyvania and Illlinois. It can be found growing wild in fields, pastures and weedy sites along roadsides. It grows 6 to 8 feet tall and has large wavy heart shared alternate leaves and clulsters of tubular purple flowers which bloom July to September. The small hooked burs contain the fruits.

ASTROLOGY: This plant comes under the dominion of Venus.

MEDICINAL USES: Primarily it is the root that is used after it's been collected and drie d. However, since the root is fibrous and tough, much time should be allowed for its drying. it is considered to be one of the best blood purifiers. The unripe burrs and the leaves (to a lesser degree) are used to treat kidney infections. For these purposes a moderate decoction of the root is recommended or moderate infusion of leaves.
Externally both root and leaves have been used for all types of scaly skin disorders, psoriasis and eczema included.

FOLKLORE: The boiled root was once used for rheumatism, gout, lung dises and mild lazative, diuretic and perspiration inducers. In the Middle Ages the leaves were pounded with wine to create a rememdy for leprosy. (top)

CARAWAY--(Carum carvi)

The root is better food than the parsnips; it is pleasant and comfortable to the stomach, and helpeth digestion.
Culpepper

If you are going to attempt to collect this plant from the wild then proper identification is an absolute must so that it is not confused with other members of the carrot family such as water hemlock and poison hemlock. Be sure you know what you're doing before attempting to take this plant from the wild.

Caramway is a bi-ennial plant with an erect, furrowed, branching stem which grows 1 1/2 to 2 feet high. Feathery leaves grow from the stem in opposite pairs of in threes. The branches of the stems end in clusters of tiny white flowers which bloom June to July. The flower heads resemble those of coarrots, the seeds are long, ribbed and brownish. This plant is native to Eurasian and Africa but now grows wild in many parts of North America and can be found in meadows, woods and rocky areas.

ASTROLOGY: Caraway comes under the dominion of Mercury.

MEDICINAL USES: It is a mild tonic and very good for the digestion. The oil extraced from the fruit is best for the purose. A tea, when cooled, is great for children. For the purpose for treating, indigestion, gas, colic and nervous conditions one ounce of the crushed seeds to a pint of boiling water steep twenty minutes or allow to cool completely over night. The tea may then be taken frequiently in the amount of two tablespoons until relief is obtained.

MAGICKAL USES: This is used to consecrate magickal and ritual tools, but can also be used to consecrate any of your personal posessions. The property caraway brings is retentions, so that possessions once consecrated with this herb will remain in your possession. However, if this is done out of selfishness you are more likely to lose that which you selfishly possess. Caraway is sometimes throw at weddings and handfastings and sometimes is added to the wedding cake or other food being served for it is thought to help the lovers remain faithful and avoid breaking apart. �(top)

CATNIP (Nepeta cataria)
There is an old saying about this plant: "If you set it, the cats will eat it, if you sow it the cats don't know it."
Grieve

This perennial herb grows upright to a height of about three feet. It has branching suare stems and toothed, heart shaped opposite leaves which re covered with downy gray hairs giving the plant a grayish-green look. Clusters of white or pale lavender flowers appear June-October. The plant has a rather minty smell which is only natural since it is a member of the mint family. But unlike other mints, Catnip is not prone to taking over your garden by means of runners. Rather it spreads by seed, if you snip or collect the seed pods before they burst open you will not have a problem containing this plant. It is found growing wild throughout North America by the road and waste areas and dry fields.

ASTROLOGY: This plant comes under the domninon of Venus.

MEDICINAL USES: Catnip tea is very good to give for caming the nerves and for mild help in getting to sleep. It is also good to use for the treatment of colds and fevers as it brings a sense of warmth to the body which in turns helps bring on perspiration. Catnip is always given as a mild, moderate or strong infusion of the leaves. The dose will depend upon how severe the condition is. For severe nervous conditions, for use as diaphoretic and even for hyperactivity in children it is best combined with equal parts chamomile, spearmint and lemon balm.

FOLKLORE: Chewing catnip leaves has long been a folk rememdy for toothache...it does appear to help but not for long periods of time. It was used as a treatment for barreness and appeared as a fertility charm in some folk remedies.

MAGICKAL USES: Currently, it is used as a religious herb particularly when working with the Egyptian Goddesses Baste (who often appears as a cat) and Sekhmet who appears as lion.

For self-growth it is combined with Dragon's Blood and burnt as incense to rid the self of any particularly bad habits.

There is also a connection between Catnip and those who practice Shape Shifting and desire to prowl the night as a cat.

MEDICINAL USES FOR YOUR PET:
Catnip is great to give your cat or kitten to play with as we all know. However, should your lovely kitty become injured (even your puppy) it is wise to give catnip either as a leaf or to make a tea with it and give it to the animal. This will help to ease any pain they may feel and get them to rest peacefully and comfortably. It is also good to combine it with a small amount of fresh Valerian for this purpose.(top)

CELANDINE (chelidonium majus)

Other common names for this plant are Greater Celandine, Swallowwort, Tetterwort. It is a member of the Poppy Family. Caution should be taken when handling this plant as thejuice can cause severe iritation of the mucous membranes and is also a central nervous system depressant. Skin irritation may result from handling crushed parts of this plant.

This plant is not to be confused with its counterpart, Lesser Celandine. We will cover that plant in a moment.

Celandine is a perennial herb that grows in rich damp soil along the edges of forests, paths and walls. Also found among rocks and buishes. It grows wild from Northeastern Canada and the US south to Georgia, Tennessee and Missouri.

It grows to reach about 2 1/2 feet and has smooth deeply divided leavws with loved leaflets spread alternately along the lower stem. The flower are bright yellow and apear April-September. You will know this plant well as any part of the plant which is broken exudes an orange/yellowish juice which smells very unpleasant.

ASTROLOGY: Greater Celandine is ruled by the Sun.

MEDICINAL USES:The juice of this plant as noted as a strong skin irritating effect which is what makes it useful for warts, eczema and ringworm. This may be done by using the juice in an ointment and/or a wash. Greater Celandine has been used to treat gallstones and kidney stones, to dissolve them and ease their passing. It has also been used in the treatment of jaundice, working to heal the liver and cleanse it of disease.


LESSER CELANDINE (stylophorum diphyllum)

The lesser Celandine hath greene round leaves, smooth slipperie and shining...the stalks are slender, short and for the most part creeping upon the ground; they bring forth little yellow flowers.

Gerard

This hard perenial herb grows to a hight of about one foot and forms clumps of foliage. The yellow flowers are formed in groups of three to five blooms. Each flower is about two inches across. It is an easy plant to cultivate, as is Greater Celandine, and may be placed in almost spot in the garden from full sun to dappled shade.

ASTROLOGY; This plant comes under the rule of Mercury, the Sun and Leo.

MEDICINAL USES: This herb has a long and proven history as a remedy for hemorrhoids or piles...which is what gives this particular herb its common name of Pilewort. It is an excellent astringent and may be taken either internally as an infusion or externally applied in the form of an ointment or used as a suppository.

To make a suppository hear finely chopped herb with paraffin wax, macerating it until all of the volatile oils have been absorbed, then throroughly straining out all solids with a filter. As the wax cools it may be shaped into small suppositories which are move effective for hemrrhoids.

FOLKLORE: One of the names for this herb if "Ranunculus" meaning 'tiny frog'. This maybe because the herb is found growing in the saas the frog; rich, water fed soil near lakes and streams. Lesser Celandine is said t enhance dreams, making them pleasant in nature, delightful and relaxing. It also enjoys use today as a religious herb in accordance with it relationship to the Sping season and enjoys current use as a visionary herb.

The name of Celandine for both the Greater and Lesser varities has been the source of a lot of confusion throughout the ages. This herb, Lesser Celandine, was observed by the Celts to respond to sun and rain, opening and closing. Lesser Celandine appears to have instilled a greater sense of wonder for it is the only herb of these two to have folklore and magickal uses attached to its hisgtory. This is an herb of Springtime, for it appears early grows fully and soon into the summer passes into its dying cycle.

MAGICKAL USES: Lesser Celandine is used today among those people who celebragte the growing of the sun ingt her late Winter and Springtime rituals. It is sometimes tossed into the fire in celebration of the days of growing sunshine and sometimes included in the ritual drink.

It is said that boiling this herb with white wine and then drinking this pleasant drink with honey before going to bed is a sure way of inducing pleasantdreams. Lesser Celandine is a visionary herb used to increase one's psychic abilities and as a wash in some forms of divination, either to consecrate a divintory tool or to bath various portal of psychic experience with in the body. (top)

The Chamomiles.

There are, at least, three different plants which compete for the common name of Chamomile. They are Roman Chamomile, Germany Chamomile and a plant better known to you as Feverfew. All are members of the Composite family of plants. Please note that if you or anyone else has allergies to rag weed Chamomile is not advised for use. You may attempt small amounts of it if you wish but there is a good chance that any or all of the following plants will cause an allergic reaction.

Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) also goes by the common names of Common Chamomile, English Chamomile and True Chamomile. Unlike it's very close cousin, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile is a perennial herb. It grows wild in waster places and near gardens. It is native to western and southern Europe but has spread throughout North America. It is a many branched herb which grows up to a foot in height and has fine almost downy stems. Pale green leaves are finely divided and feathery. The daisylike flowers bloom June-September and are about an inch across and have an applelike odor.
This plant is used for simple indigestion, an appetite stimulant and as an anti-inflammatory and for menstrual cramps.

The next Chamomile is German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) other common names for this plant are Hungarian Chamomile and Wild Chamomile. It can be found growing by roadsides and in other waste areas. Another native of Europe it is now found growing from Newfoundland west to Minnesota and south to Pennsylvannia. It is an annual herb that grows to a height of 20 inches. it has an erect many branched cylindrical stem and light green leaves that are finely divided and almost feathery in appearance. The single daisylike flowers bloom May-October with blooms one inch across and an applelike aroma.
This plant is used as a mild sedative, as an anti-inflammatory especially useful when treating arthritis and menstrual cramps.

The last plant which competes for the name Chamomile is Feverfew (Chrysanthemum parthenium) this plant can be found in dry soils, waste areas and roadisded. Another native of Europe it is now commonly found in the Northeast and is naturalized locally throughout the reast of the United States and southern Canada. it is a hardy biennial or perennial which grows up to 2 1/2 feet. The stem is erect, hairy and branching. The strongly aromatic leaves are alternative and divided into broad lobed segments. Daisylike flowers bloom June-August. There is no applelike aroma to this plant.
This plant is used for reducing fevers, in the treatment of nervousness, hysteriala nd low spirits. A tea of the leaves is used to treat colds, indigestion and diarrhea. A tea from the flowers used to promote the menstrual flow. The extract taken daily can help control and delay the onset of migraine headaches.

Roman and/or German Chamomiles may be macerated with an oil and used as a liniment for sore muscles, joints, aches, sprains, bruises and such. They may also be used externally as a wash to help keep the skin healthy and free from acne and other blemishes. They may also be made into a lotion to treat toothaches, earaches and the pains of neuralgia. They are both very good to use a mild sedative, using a tea made of the flowers. They are totally harmless to the body (unless you're allergic) but will still relax and soothe.

Magickal associations for Roman and German Chamomiles..one o the other should be planted in a magickal garden to function as a guardian herb sprit for the energy of the space. it willbring magickal and mundane protection to the garden. It is also said that this plant will bring health to other plants in the garden and that it will cure almost any plant that it grows next to. it is even said to keep neighboring plants free of insects (save bees of course).
The inludsion of Chamomile into an amulet or magickal working is to said togaurantee the success of the endeavor. it is used to invoke the various Sun Gods, particularly Karnayana. This may be done through incense or ritual drink. (top)


CHICKWEED (stellaria media)

This herb also goes by the common names of Mouse-ear, Satinflowers, Starweed, Tongue Grass, White Bird's-eye and Winterweed.

This plant is native to Europe but is now found throughout the more temperate regions of North America. It can be found in gardens, lawns, meadows, pastures, fields, and waste places.

It is an annual herb which grows between 12 and 15 inches with sprawling stems which can reach up to 2 1/2 feet in length. From each stem nodes grows pairs of oval leaves that vary in size. White flowers which bloom February-December are roughly 1/4 inch across with (usually) five two-parted petals that are shorter than the sepals and are followed by oval seed pods.

ASTROLOGY: This plant is ruled by the Moon.

MEDICINAL USES: This plant has been the subject of controvery among herbalists for a very long time. Some call it a wonder cure and others call not much more than a common garden weed. One thing they do seem to agree on it is that it a very good tonic to give someone who is in a weakened physical condition as it is rich in copper and iron as well as other nutrients. For this purpose a standard infusion is given in the dose of one cup three times daily.

It can also be made into an oil or salve for direct application to the skin for such conditions as rashes, eczema and psorisis. For this purpose the whole or dried herb is macerated and soaked in olive oil for four days. One may make a poultic of the fresh steamed herb for application to hemorrhoids, boils and abscesses.

FOLKLORE: This herb was largely ignored by ancient herbalists and as such it received its Latin name, Stellaria, from the Swedish botanist Linnaeus, who noted the starlike shape of the delicate flowers. They open on sunny days but they may close when rain is in the forecast! There is a very old custom of giving Chickweed to the birds as birdfood. Of course the preferred part is the seed. According to Grieve, it is a faovirte for a variety of other pets including rabbits...gerbils and hamsters also love it. �(top)

Cinnamon--cinnamomum zeylancium

The tree which hath Cinnamon for his barke is of the stature of an Olive tre having a body as thick as a mans thigh, from which the Cinnamon is taken, but that taken from the smaller branches is much better.

Gerard

ASTROLOGY: Cinnamon comes undr the dominion of both Uranus and the Sun. It is an herbe of Gemini and associated with the Lovers Card in the Tarot deck.

MEDICINAL USES: Is there anyone out there who is not familiar with this herb? I have wonderful memories of waking up to the aroma of cinnamon toast awaiting me downstairs to have with my breakfast. It is one of the most helpful kitchen herbs. It helps to warm the entire system (much like ginseng but not as strong). It helps to warm the organs in the teatment of chronic diarrhea, cramps, heart and abdomina pains, coughing, wheezing and lower back pain. It makes an effective tincture which when given every fifteen minutes or some helps to stop bleeding from the uterus. Simmered in milk and taken with a little honey, cinnamon is very effective for indigestions, gas, diarrhea and dysentery.

FOLKLORE: In the East where Cinnamon was originally grown, some of us in the west can grow it but those of us in New England have little to no success unless we have a greenhouse, it was used a Religious Herb burnt as incense to purify
temples.

MAGICKAL USES: Although Cinnamon was assigned to the Mars it is currently given to Uranus and the Sun for the work that it brings about is for the mind. It may be burnt as incense or taken as tea to increase the ability to concentrate and focus the mind and communicate with greater ease. It is also sometimes used in prophecy and may be used either internally or externally for this purpose.

When used as incense it is said to not only purify the space but to bring peaceful energy so that any r ite may be conducted with no distraction and with full concentration.

It is also used in charms of love and love potions and may be worn or added to an amulet to bring god luck to the wearer.

For the more adept practioner Cinnamon will bring a keener understanding of the properties of immortality. It may aid a person to get in touch with that aspect of the Self. Magickal Cinnamon should be stored with a small tourmaline and is appropriate for the consecration of that stone. �(top)

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