Tag: voodoo spells

  • Monthly Voodoo Rituals!

    Announcement: Monthly Voodoo Rituals with Spellmaker.com!

    🌟 Spellmaker.com is thrilled to announce a new series of monthly Voodoo rituals in celebration of our 30th anniversary! Mambo Sam is honored to host these powerful rituals as a way to connect with the lwa, build community, and embrace the magic of Voodoo together.
    🕊️ First Ritual: Honoring Erzulie Freda
    đź“… Date: Saturday, February 15, 2025
    ⏰ Time: 8 PM ET, 7 PM CT, 6 PM MT, 5 PM PT
    đź“Ť Location: Spellmaker Zoom Room
    đź’– This February special ritual will honor Erzulie Freda, the lwa of love, beauty, and luxury. Whether you are seeking love, emotional healing, or deeper connections, this is the perfect opportunity to work with her energy.
    ✨ March Ritual: Honoring Sobo đź“… Date: Sunday, March 16, 2025
    Join us in future months to honor other lwa, including Erzulie Dantor, Papa Legba, Gran Bwa, and more.
    📧 For more details, email us at customerservice@spellmaker.com.
    Celebrate this magical milestone with us and strengthen your spiritual journey in the presence of community. We can’t wait to see you there! 🌙
    Love, 
    The Spellmaker Family! Feb ritual

  • Day of household deities!

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    The Day of Household Deities!

    Household deities, often overlooked in modern discussions the mysteries, hold a significant place around the world. These deities, guardians of the hearth and home, are celebrated in numerous traditions and rituals. One such celebration is "The Day of Household Deities," a festivity that honors these spiritual protectors, acknowledging their presence and expressing gratitude for their blessings. This essay explores the origins, practices, and cultural significance of this special day, shedding light on the enduring relationship between humans and their household gods.

    Origins and Historical Context

    The veneration of household deities dates back to ancient times when people believed that their homes were protected by specific gods or spirits. These deities were thought to ensure the well-being, prosperity, and harmony of the household. In ancient Rome, for instance, the Lares and Penates were the gods of the household and storeroom, respectively. The Lares were considered guardians of the home and ancestors who watched over their descendants, while the Penates were associated with the pantry and the provision of food. These deities were honored with daily rituals and offerings, emphasizing their importance in everyday life.

    Similarly, in ancient Greece, the Hestia was the goddess of the hearth, home, and family. As the central figure in domestic worship, Hestia's flame was never allowed to go out, symbolizing the continuous protection and warmth of the home. In many other cultures, such as the Slavic, Celtic, and Asian traditions, household deities played a crucial role in maintaining the sanctity and safety of the home.

    "The Day of Household Deities" is a day set aside to honor and thank these benevolent spirits. The significance of this day lies in the recognition of the unseen forces that contribute to the happiness and prosperity of a household. By dedicating a specific day to these deities, people reaffirm their respect and gratitude, ensuring that the relationship between the mortal and the divine remains strong.

    This day serves as a reminder of the intimate connection between the spiritual and the mundane. It highlights the belief that everyday activities, such as cooking, cleaning, and maintaining the household, are imbued with spiritual significance. The Day of Household Deities is not just about grand rituals but also about the small, daily acts of devotion that sustain the home and its inhabitants.

    Practices and Rituals

    The celebration of The Day of Household Deities varies widely across cultures, but certain common practices can be identified. These rituals often involve cleaning and purifying the home, preparing special meals, and making offerings to the household gods.

    1. Cleaning and Purification: The day typically begins with a thorough cleaning of the home. This act of purification is believed to remove negative energies and create a welcoming environment for the deities. In some cultures, this includes sweeping, dusting, and washing, while in others, it may involve more elaborate purification rites with incense, herbs, or holy water.

    2. Altar Preparation: Many households set up a special altar or shrine dedicated to their household deities. This altar may be a permanent fixture in the home or temporarily set up for the occasion. It is adorned with flowers, candles, and images or symbols of the deities. Offerings of food, drink, and other items are placed on the altar as a gesture of gratitude and reverence.

    3. Offering of Food: Food plays a central role in the celebration. Special dishes are prepared, often using recipes passed down through generations. These meals are offered to the deities before being shared with family members. The act of offering food symbolizes the sharing of sustenance and blessings between the divine and the mortal realms.

    4. Prayers and Invocations: Prayers, chants, and invocations are recited to honor the household deities. These may be traditional prayers or spontaneous expressions of gratitude and supplication. In some cultures, specific hymns or songs are sung, creating a festive and reverent atmosphere.

    5. Family Gatherings: The Day of Household Deities is often a time for family gatherings. Relatives come together to celebrate, share meals, and participate in rituals. This reinforces the bonds of family and community, emphasizing the collective nature of the celebration.

    Cultural Variations

    While the core elements of The Day of Household Deities remain consistent, the specific practices and deities honored can vary significantly across cultures.

    • Roman Tradition: In Roman culture, the Lares and Penates were honored with small statues placed in household shrines. Offerings of food, wine, and incense were made daily, with special emphasis on festivals such as the Compitalia, a celebration dedicated to the Lares.

    • Chinese Tradition: In Chinese culture, the Kitchen God (Zao Jun) is a key household deity. The Day of Household Deities is often associated with the Kitchen God Festival, where families offer sweets and sticky rice to the deity. It is believed that these offerings sweeten the Kitchen God's report to the Jade Emperor about the family's behavior over the past year.

    • Japanese Tradition: In Japan, the Kamidana (god shelf) is a small Shinto shrine found in many homes. The Day of Household Deities involves cleaning the Kamidana, offering sake and food, and praying for the well-being of the family. The Kamidana houses various kami (gods or spirits) who protect the household.

    • Slavic Tradition: In Slavic folklore, the Domovoi is a household spirit believed to protect the home and its inhabitants. On The Day of Household Deities, families clean their homes, offer bread and milk to the Domovoi, and seek the spirit's blessing for prosperity and protection.

    Witchcraft and Household Deities

    The practice of witchcraft often involves the veneration of household deities, with many witches maintaining altars or shrines dedicated to these spirits. Household deities in witchcraft are considered essential allies, offering protection, guidance, and blessings. The Day of Household Deities is particularly significant for practitioners of witchcraft, as it aligns with their belief in the sacredness of the home and the presence of spiritual beings within it.

    1. Witchcraft Altars: Witches often create altars in their homes to honor household deities. These altars may include representations of the deities, crystals, herbs, candles, and other magical tools. The altars serve as focal points for daily rituals and offerings, reinforcing the bond between the witch and the household spirits.

    2. Offerings and Spells: On The Day of Household Deities, witches might prepare special offerings such as cakes, wine, or herbs. These offerings are given in gratitude for the protection and blessings provided by the household deities. Additionally, witches may perform spells for home protection, prosperity, and harmony, invoking the deities' aid in these matters.

    3. Ritual Cleansing: Cleansing rituals are integral to witchcraft, and The Day of Household Deities provides an opportunity for witches to thoroughly cleanse their homes of negative energies. This may involve smudging with sage or other sacred herbs, sprinkling salt or holy water, and using sound (such as bells or chimes) to purify the space.

    In contemporary times, The Day of Household Deities may seem like a quaint tradition, but it holds enduring relevance. In a fast-paced, technology-driven world, this celebration offers a moment to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the spiritual aspects of daily life. It serves as a reminder of the importance of home, family, and community, and the need to cultivate gratitude and mindfulness.

    Moreover, The Day of Household Deities can be seen as a celebration of the sacred in the ordinary. It emphasizes that spirituality is not confined to temples or churches but is present in the everyday activities of the home. This perspective encourages people to find meaning and purpose in their daily routines, fostering a sense of reverence for life itself.

    For practitioners of witchcraft, this day is an affirmation of their belief in the interconnection between the physical and spiritual worlds. It validates their practices and reinforces their commitment to maintaining harmony and balance in their lives.

    The Day of Household Deities is a celebration that transcends cultural boundaries, highlighting the universal human need to acknowledge and honor the unseen forces that shape our lives. Through rituals of cleaning, offering, and prayer, people express their gratitude to the deities who protect and bless their homes. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the sacredness of the home and the enduring bond between the mortal and the divine. In a world that often overlooks the spiritual in favor of the material, The Day of Household Deities calls us back to a deeper appreciation of the simple, everyday acts that sustain and nourish us. For practitioners of witchcraft, it is a day to reaffirm their connection to the household spirits, celebrating the magic and mystery of the home.

    In service, 

    Mambo Sam

  • Embracing the Summer Solstice: A Celebration of Light and Witchcraft

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    Embracing the Summer Solstice: A Celebration of Light and Witchcraft

    The Summer Solstice, known as Litha in many Pagan traditions, marks the longest day and shortest night of the year. This astronomical event, occurring between June 20 and June 22 in the Northern Hemisphere, holds profound significance in the world of witchcraft and Paganism. The term “solstice” is derived from the Latin words “sol” (sun) and “sistere” (to stand still), symbolizing the sun at its zenith. This moment, when the sun appears to stand still, offers a powerful opportunity for magic, celebration, and deep connection with the Earth.

    Historical and Cultural Significance

    Historically, the Summer Solstice has been revered by various cultures around the world. Ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians, Mayans, and Druids, built monuments aligned with the sun’s path, demonstrating their reverence for this day. Stonehenge in England and the Great Pyramids of Giza are prime examples of how ancient peoples honored the Solstice. These structures served not only as calendars but also as places for ritualistic celebrations, emphasizing the importance of the sun and its life-giving energy.

    In many cultures, the Solstice is associated with themes of fertility, renewal, and abundance. For instance, in Scandinavia, Midsummer festivals involve dancing around maypoles, singing traditional songs, and feasting. These activities symbolize the peak of summer’s vitality and the beginning of the harvest season. Similarly, Indigenous peoples of North America honor the Solstice with ceremonies that include dancing, drumming, and storytelling, paying homage to the Earth and the sun’s nourishing power.

    The Spiritual and Magical Connection

    For witches and Pagans, the Summer Solstice is a time to celebrate the power of the sun and the abundance of nature. Litha, as it is often called, is a Sabbat—a festival within the Wheel of the Year—that marks a high point in the solar cycle. This day is imbued with potent energy, making it ideal for various magical workings and rituals.

    1. Honoring the Sun

    The sun, at its zenith, is a symbol of strength, vitality, and life. Many Solstice rituals focus on honoring this celestial body. One popular tradition is to greet the dawn with sun salutations or meditations, absorbing the sun’s energy and allowing it to invigorate your spirit. Some practitioners also create sun wheels or mandalas, using flowers, herbs, and other natural materials to represent the sun’s power and beauty.

    2. Fire Magic

    Fire, representing the sun’s warmth and light, is a central element in many Litha celebrations. Bonfires are a traditional way to celebrate the Solstice, with participants dancing, singing, and jumping over the flames to purify and bless themselves. This act is believed to bring good fortune and drive away negative energies. Fire magic can also be incorporated into spellwork, using candles, herbs, and incense to harness the sun’s energy for protection, healing, and manifestation.

    3. Connecting with Nature

    Litha is a time to immerse oneself in nature, appreciating the Earth’s abundance and beauty. Many witches take this opportunity to perform rituals outdoors, in forests, gardens, or by bodies of water. Gathering herbs, flowers, and other natural materials for spellwork and rituals is a common practice. Popular herbs for the Solstice include St. John’s Wort, lavender, and chamomile, which are believed to carry the sun’s energy and enhance magical workings.

    Magical Practices and Rituals

    The heightened energy of the Summer Solstice makes it an ideal time for various magical practices and rituals. Here are some ways to celebrate Litha and harness its power:

    1. Creating an Altar

    Set up an altar dedicated to the Summer Solstice, adorned with symbols of the season. Include sunflowers, candles, crystals like citrine and sunstone, and representations of solar deities. Use this space for meditation, prayer, or spellwork, allowing the altar to serve as a focal point for your magical intentions.

    2. Performing Solstice Spells

    The Solstice’s vibrant energy is perfect for spells related to growth, abundance, and transformation. Consider performing spells to manifest your desires, enhance your personal power, or attract prosperity. Use herbs, candles, and crystals associated with the sun to amplify your intentions.

    3. Ritual Bathing

    A ritual bath can cleanse and rejuvenate your body and spirit. Prepare a bath with sun-charged water, adding herbs and essential oils like rosemary, lavender, and chamomile. As you soak, visualize the sun’s energy infusing you with strength and vitality, washing away any negativity.

    4. Divination and Reflection

    The Solstice is a powerful time for divination and self-reflection. Use tarot cards, runes, or scrying to gain insight into your life and future. Reflect on your personal growth over the past year and set intentions for the months ahead. The sun’s clarity can illuminate your path and guide you toward your goals.

    Community and Celebration

    The Summer Solstice is also a time for communal celebration. Many Pagans and witches gather for group rituals, festivals, and feasts. Sharing food, music, and dance with like-minded individuals can enhance the sense of connection and amplify the magical energy of the day. Whether through large public gatherings or intimate circles, celebrating with others can create a powerful and memorable Solstice experience.

    1. Group Rituals

    Group rituals are a wonderful way to celebrate the Solstice with a community. These rituals can include circle casting, invocations of the sun and Earth, and shared spellwork. Group energy can be incredibly potent, and working together can deepen the connections among participants. Consider organizing or attending a local Solstice gathering to experience the magic of community.

    2. Feasting and Sharing Food

    Feasting is a central part of many Solstice celebrations. Sharing a meal with others is a way to honor the Earth’s abundance and foster a sense of community. Prepare a feast using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, and share the food with friends and family. As you eat, take time to express gratitude for the Earth’s gifts and the company of those around you.

    3. Music and Dance

    Music and dance are powerful ways to celebrate the Solstice. Create or join a drum circle, dance around a bonfire, or simply play music that uplifts your spirit. Movement and rhythm can help you connect with the Earth’s energy and the joy of the season. Allow yourself to be free and expressive, embracing the vitality and warmth of the Solstice.

    Honoring the Earth through Sustainable Practices

    Another way to honor the Summer Solstice is by adopting sustainable practices that support the health of the planet. This can include reducing your use of single-use plastics, conserving water, supporting local and organic farming, and reducing your carbon footprint. By making conscious choices that benefit the Earth, you can contribute to the wellbeing of the planet and honor the interconnectedness of all life.

    1. Supporting Local Agriculture

    Supporting local agriculture by buying from farmers’ markets or participating in community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs is a great way to honor the Earth. Local produce is often fresher and more environmentally friendly, as it reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Plus, it supports local farmers and strengthens your connection to the land.

    2. Reducing Waste

    Reducing waste is an important aspect of sustainable living. During your Solstice celebrations, aim to minimize waste by using reusable plates, cups, and utensils. Compost food scraps and recycle whenever possible. By being mindful of your consumption, you can lessen your environmental impact and show respect for the Earth.

    3. Conserving Water

    Water conservation is another crucial element of sustainability. Be conscious of your water use, especially during outdoor activities and rituals. Collect rainwater for your garden, fix leaks, and use water-saving techniques in your home. By valuing and conserving water, you honor this vital resource and the Earth’s ecosystems.

    Conclusion

    The Summer Solstice, or Litha, is a time of immense power and beauty. For witches and Pagans, it offers a unique opportunity to honor the sun, connect with nature, and perform potent magic. By celebrating this sacred day, we can align ourselves with the rhythms of the Earth, harness the sun’s energy, and embrace the abundance of life.

    As we mark the longest day of the year, let us remember the interconnectedness of all things and the cycles that sustain us. The Summer Solstice is not just an astronomical event but a reminder of the magic and wonder that exists in the world. Whether through solitary rituals or communal celebrations, embracing the Solstice allows us to deepen our connection with the Earth and our own spiritual journey.

    In a world that often feels disconnected from nature, the Summer Solstice serves as a reminder of our profound connection to the Earth. By taking time to celebrate and honor this day, we can rekindle our relationship with the natural world and find inspiration in its beauty and resilience. Whether through simple rituals or grand celebrations, the Solstice invites us to pause, reflect, and celebrate the gift of life.

    In Service, 

    Mambo Sam

  • Embracing the Summer Solstice: A Time to Connect with the Earth

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    Embracing the Summer Solstice: A Time to Connect with the Earth

    The Summer Solstice, marking the longest day and shortest night of the year, is a powerful time for reflection, celebration, and connection with nature. Occurring between June 20 and June 22 in the Northern Hemisphere, this astronomical event has been observed and celebrated for millennia across various cultures. The word “solstice” is derived from the Latin words “sol” (sun) and “sistere” (to stand still), signifying the moment when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky. This celestial pause offers a unique opportunity to connect deeply with the Earth and rejuvenate our spirits.

    Historical and Cultural Significance

    Historically, the Summer Solstice has held great significance for many civilizations. Ancient cultures, such as the Egyptians, Mayans, and Druids, built monuments aligned with the sun’s path, demonstrating their reverence for this day. Stonehenge in England and the Great Pyramids of Giza are prime examples of how ancient peoples honored the Solstice. These structures served not only as calendars but also as places for ritualistic celebrations, emphasizing the importance of the sun and its life-giving energy.

    In many cultures, the Solstice is associated with themes of fertility, renewal, and abundance. For instance, in Scandinavia, Midsummer festivals involve dancing around maypoles, singing traditional songs, and feasting. These activities symbolize the peak of summer’s vitality and the beginning of the harvest season. Similarly, Indigenous peoples of North America honor the Solstice with ceremonies that include dancing, drumming, and storytelling, paying homage to the Earth and the sun’s nourishing power.

    The Spiritual and Natural Connection

    The Summer Solstice is not only a physical phenomenon but also a spiritual event. It invites us to pause and reflect on our place within the natural world. This day encourages us to reconnect with the rhythms of the Earth and to appreciate the cycles of nature that sustain us. The heightened energy of the Solstice provides an ideal backdrop for spiritual practices and rituals that foster a deeper connection with the planet.

    Ways to Celebrate and Connect with the Earth

    There are numerous ways to celebrate the Summer Solstice and strengthen your bond with the Earth. Here are some ideas to inspire your own Solstice rituals and activities:

    1. Sunrise and Sunset Rituals

    Begin your day by watching the sunrise and end it by observing the sunset. These moments of transition are perfect for meditation and reflection. As the sun rises, set your intentions for the coming months. Think about what you want to cultivate in your life and visualize these goals coming to fruition. As the sun sets, take time to express gratitude for the light and energy it provides, and reflect on the growth and progress you’ve made so far.

    2. Nature Walks and Hikes

    Spending time outdoors is one of the most direct ways to connect with the Earth. Whether it’s a walk in a local park, a hike in the mountains, or a visit to the beach, immersing yourself in natural surroundings can ground your energy and bring a sense of peace. Pay attention to the sights, sounds, and smells around you, and let the beauty of the natural world fill you with wonder and appreciation.

    3. Gardening and Planting

    Engaging in gardening activities is a symbolic way to celebrate growth and renewal. Plant flowers, herbs, or vegetables in your garden, or use pots if you have limited space. Gardening not only connects you with the Earth but also provides a tangible reminder of the Solstice’s themes of fertility and abundance. As you nurture your plants, you can reflect on your own growth and the goals you wish to nurture in your life.

    4. Creating an Altar

    Set up a small altar with items that represent the Summer Solstice and the natural world. This could include flowers, crystals, candles, and any other objects that resonate with you. Use this space for meditation, prayer, or simply as a visual reminder of your connection to the Earth. An altar can serve as a focal point for your Solstice celebrations, helping you to center your thoughts and intentions.

    5. Practicing Mindfulness

    Mindfulness practices such as yoga, meditation, or tai chi are excellent ways to connect with your body and the Earth. These practices help cultivate a sense of presence and alignment with the natural rhythms of the world. By focusing on your breath and the sensations in your body, you can become more attuned to the energies of the Solstice and the Earth.

    Embracing the Energy of the Solstice

    The Summer Solstice is a time to celebrate light, warmth, and life. It’s an opportunity to honor the Earth and our place within its intricate web of life. As we bask in the sun’s peak energy, we can draw upon its strength to fuel our own growth and transformation.

    Reflecting on Personal Growth

    Use the Solstice as a time to reflect on your personal journey. Consider the goals you set at the beginning of the year and assess your progress. The Solstice’s vibrant energy can inspire you to renew your commitments and take bold steps toward your dreams. Reflect on the challenges you’ve faced and the lessons you’ve learned and use this insight to guide your path forward.

    Connecting with Community

    The Summer Solstice is also a time to connect with others. Consider organizing or participating in community events, such as Solstice festivals, bonfires, or group meditations. Sharing the experience with others can enhance your sense of connection and amplify the positive energy of the day. Whether through music, dance, or storytelling, celebrating the Solstice with your community can create lasting memories and strengthen bonds.

    Honoring the Earth through Sustainable Practices

    Another way to honor the Summer Solstice is by adopting sustainable practices that support the health of the planet. This can include reducing your use of single-use plastics, conserving water, supporting local and organic farming, and reducing your carbon footprint. By making conscious choices that benefit the Earth, you can contribute to the wellbeing of the planet and honor the interconnectedness of all life.

    Conclusion

    The Summer Solstice is more than just an astronomical event; it’s a celebration of life and an invitation to connect deeply with the Earth. By honoring this special day through rituals, nature activities, and mindfulness, we can align ourselves with the natural world and harness its energy for personal and communal growth. As we embrace the longest day of the year, let us also embrace the boundless potential within ourselves and the world around us.

    In a world that often feels disconnected from nature, the Summer Solstice serves as a reminder of our profound connection to the Earth. By taking time to celebrate and honor this day, we can rekindle our relationship with the natural world and find inspiration in its beauty and resilience. Whether through simple rituals or grand celebrations, the Solstice invites us to pause, reflect, and celebrate the gift of life.

    Light and love, 

    Sister Bridget

     

  • Stirring up Springtime! Blessed Imbolc!

    Stirring up Springtime!

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    Hi there Spellmaker readers and welcome to Imbolc season!

    In the pagan journey of the year, as the days grow longer at a glacial pace, we invite you to celebrate Imbolc Brigantia. The first of the spring festivals reminds us that after winter's period of preparation, all that is green and good in this world will return in just a little while. In JRR Tolkien's elven calendar, which had six seasons, this time of year between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox was known as the season of “stirring”.

    All those little seeds that have been germinating in the dark ground begin to awaken now.

    In modern day applications, I feel like these fits right in with making new goals at the new year. Ideas both large and small come to us, and now is the time to get those things underway.

    It may be a promise you made to yourself to journal, or learn a new skill, or take up a new hobby. It may be to start working on putting away some savings, bring new love into your life, or even to break a bad habit.

    Whatever your personal goals are, the energy all around us right now favors taking the first step.

    Many of our clients who have been with us for years likely know that we carry a variety of spell kits that can place you firmly on the path to whatever aims your sweet little heart may desire.

    Our customer service desk and caseworkers are available to help you with product recommendations to light up (in the grand tradition of St. Bridget’s sacred flame) your world!

    My wish for this season is that you are blessed with health, happiness and boundless inspiration!

    “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”~Lao Tzu

    In Service,

    Khouzhan Morgan

  • Libra Oil! Enjoy this recipe from Mambo Sam’s grimoire! 

    LibraOil

    Enjoy this recipe from Mambo Sam's grimoire! 

  • Harvesting your Magickal Herbs!

    Harvesting and storing your magickal herbs! 

    Whether you’re an apartment dweller with a few small containers on the patio, or a rural gardener with an entire patch of magical goodies to choose from, harvesting homegrown herbs is a gratifying experience. You can either harvest a few bits at a time, as you need them, and use them fresh, or you can gather entire bunches at once to dry and preserve.

     

    Harvesting Your Magical Herbs

    Herb Gardening
    Gather fresh herbs from your garden for magical uses. Helen King / Fuse / Getty Images

    Although there’s no hard and fast rule about what to use when cutting herbs, some magical traditions recommend the use of a boline, or ritual cutting tool, for herb harvesting. If your tradition doesn’t require this, you can use any pair of garden snippers.

    Keep in mind that the best time to harvest your herbs is early in the day, after the morning dew has dried away. Harvesting them early, before the sun has had time to dry them out, allows the plants to maintain their essential oils, which is an important part of herb use. The oils are what  .

    Basic cutting: if you’re only going to collect what you need for a ritual or working, simply snip off the leaves or stems that you’re going to use that day. Some herbs, like basil, are easily stripped of leaves just by sliding your fingers along the branch. Others, like rosemary, have a woody stem that is easier to snip off in its entirety. During the summer months, snipping off leaves and stems will encourage new growth in your plants.

    If it’s the flowers you’re after, such as chamomile or lilacs, collect blooms after they’ve developed fully and opened up. If you’ve got a plant whose seeds are the main focus, be sure to wait until the seeds have fully developed and begun to dry and turn brown on their own. An easy way to gather seeds, such as on the dill plant, is to place a paper bag over the head of the plant, and shake it into the bag. Any dry seeds should fall easily into your paper sack.

    Bunch cutting: If you’d like to gather entire bundles of herbs to hang up and dry, snip off the stems where they branch off from the main plant. This not only encourages new growth later in the season, it also makes it easier to hang them up in a bunch.

     
     

    How to Dry Your Magical Herbs

    Herb Garden in Pots
    Maximilian Stock Ltd. /Taxi / Getty Images

    When you dry herbs, you have a couple of options as to method. A bundle or bunch of herbs can be tied together with string–use about a dozen stems tied together to make a nice fat bundle–and hung in a dry, airy place. It’s generally not a good idea to hang them in direct sunlight, because they can burn and become over-dry. You can hang them from a drying rack in a warm spot in your house, and let them sit for about three weeks. This is usually enough time to dry most herbs – you’ll know they’re done drying because the leaves will crack when you pinch them.

    Again, if you’re harvesting the seeds or blossoms, use the paper bag method. Secure the bag over the head of your drying bundle, and as the plant dries, the seeds and flowers will fall off into the bag.

    Another method that some people like to use–and it works well if you’re in a hurry–is to lay the gathered herbs flat on a cookie sheet and place it in the oven at a low temperature. This will take a few hours, and it makes your house smell amazing. Be cautious, though; you don’t want to overbake your herbs, because they’ll be useless if they burn.

    If you have a dehydrator, you can use that in a similar manner as the oven method. Fortunately, a dehydrator works at a lower temperature than your oven, so the risk of burning your leaves is lower. Be sure to check them periodically to see if they’re done drying. Again, when the leaves crumble to the touch, they’re ready to go.

     
     

    Storing Your Magical Herbs

    Herb Jars
    Store your herbs in glass jars for long-term use. Cavan Images / PhotoLibrary / Getty Images

    To store your herbs, there are a variety of methods you can use. While a plastic Zip-loc bag works well to keep air out, it doesn’t keep out the light, and that’s something you want to be sure to do. Use colored glass jars, or ceramic containers with an airtight lid to store your herbs. Be sure to label each jar with the herb’s name on it–and if it’s something that might be toxic, make sure you indicate this on the label, particularly if you have children in your home. Keep your herb jars in a cool, dark area; don’t store them over the stove or in an area that is known for high heat.

    Source: learnreligions.com

    learnreligions.com/harvesting-drying-and-storing-magical-herbs-2562025

     

  • Yarrow in Magick!

    Another popular herb during fall and Mabon is Yarrow! It's autumnal colors and readiness for harvest make it a natural addition to Mabon altars and spells! 

    Yarrow

    Achillea filipendulina var. gold plate (Yarrow)
    Chris Burrows / Getty Images

    Yarrow was often called Woundwort or Knight's Milfoil, thanks to its use in treatment of battle injuries. Scotland's Highlanders use it to make a healing ointment, and in the Orkney Islands, yarrow is used to make a tea that "dispels melancholia." Maud Grieve tells us in A Modern Herbal that the Romans referred to it as herba militaris, the soldier's herb. French workmen in the Middle Ages knew that yarrow worked well on injuries to fingers and hands – in fact, in some areas it was known as "the herb of carpenters."

    In addition to its uses in soft-tissue injuries, yarrow is well known as a combatant against fever. A number of Native American tribes used it in teas that were given to the sick, to bring body temperatures down. In India, a tea called gandana is given to the ill to induce sweating, thus lowering the fever.

    Yarrow can be used in magical workings related to healing, love, and courage. Wear it on your person to boost your self-esteem and courage, or carry a bunch of dried yarrow in your hand to stop fear. A sprig hanging over the marriage bed guarantees at least seven years of passion and love. Taking a ritual bath with yarrow can help increase your psychic abilities. It can also be used to exorcise negative energies from a place or person.

    If you're working on a healing ritual for someone who is ill, consider burning dried yarrow as incense, or place a sachet of yarrow under the person's pillow to bring about restful sleep.

    Other Names: Achillea, Lady's Mantle, Woundwort
    Gender: Feminine
    Element: Water
    Planetary Connection: Venus

    Yarrow has a fairly bitter taste, but you can use both the leaves and flowers in cooking. The leaves themselves, which are flat and paddle-shaped, can be chopped up, seasoned with some lemon juice and salt and pepper, and served either in a salad or with a light summer seafood dish. If you'd rather not eat it, try putting some yarrow flowers in a bowl and adding boiling water to it — then put your face over it and let the yarrow steam open your pores.

    Note: pregnant women should not take yarrow internally, and it should not be used for undiagnosed bleeding.

    Source: Learnreligions.com

    learnreligions.com/magical-herb-correspondences-4064512

     

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