Thursday This Is Your Spell – Witches’ Bottles

Witches’ Bottles

There are many legends connected with what are called 'Witches’ Bottles'....basically a Witches’ Bottle is a jar or bottle that is filled with something while being charged by a spell, and then sealed. They are often used to protect  a  house or home, since evil spirits are said to have to stop and count every item in the bottle before they can enter a home. Many things can be used in a bottle of protection ... you can use earth, sand, small pebbles, buttons, pins, crushed glass, threads, acorns, etc etc etc (in fact in one X-files episode the writer obviously used this when Agent Fox Mulder was saved from a vampire when the vampire had to stop and count all Fox's spilled sunflower seeds <LOL>!)

Making A Witches’ Bottle

First select the bottle you want to use. Your bottle maybe clear or tinted. If you're working with a colored bottle, choose a color that suits what you are doing. Tinted bottles are great for spells that use color correspondences. Once you have a bottle, wash it with warm soapy water, or cleanse it in the ocean. After you have washed it, magically cleanse it and bathe it in the light of the full moon. When the bottle is clean it is time to fill it. There are a lot of options when it comes to contents, such as very sharp objects like nails, pins, safety pins, needles, or sand, for protection from unfriendly forces. Filling a bottle with collected  herbs, resins, leaves, roots, and spices can assist you in creating any number of wards, spells, or talismans. Add a base oil or cider vinegar and you have wonderful gifts for your friends, that will not only enhance their magical life but also their cooking! Another option is filling the bottle with a variety of flower petals selected for their healing properties, attributes, or correspondences to planetary or other forces. (You may want to include a bit of alcohol, vinegar, or olive oil to preserve the flowers.)

As you can see, witches’ bottles have unlimited possibilities, are easy to make, and can be adapted to whatever need you may be trying to fill. Protection, love, health, or even just decoration, this is one of the most versatile tools in a witches’ possession. I am including several different possible creations today. Always remember though, make anything you do yours. No spell or recipe is set in stone, nor should it be. The powers in the world are mutable and adaptable as is any good witch, using what’s at hand to work her magic. These are guidelines. That being said, here are a few examples of possible witches’ bottles you can create : )

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* Kid's Button Bottle *

This is a good craft/spell project for pagan kids. Take an unbreakable jar with a screw on cap - or use a Rubbermaid type container. Have the child place pretty buttons in the bottle all the while saying:

"Button, Button,
Nine times nine,
Protect this house
And room of mine."

When the jar is full it can then be placed near the door to the house, or better yet under the child's bed! (You all know a child or two (or an adult <eg>) that is afraid that eviiiiiiiiiiilllllllllllllll clowns live under the bed!)

 

Earth Witches’ Bottle

Using your projective hand as a funnel, pour fresh, clean soil into a long, small, clean, sterile bottle or spice jar. While doing so, charge the earth with protection, while chanting the appropriate rhyme of your own creation. Fill to the top. Cap the bottle. Place this near an entrance such as a door or window.

 

Red Wine Witches’ Bottle

Needed:

• rosemary
• needles & pins
• small glass jar with tight fitting lid or cork stopper
• red wine
• black or red candle (for wax to seal the jar)

Fill the the jar using the rosemary, needles and pins. As you're filling the jar, say these words...

"Pins, needles, rosemary, wine,
In this witch's bottle of mine;
Guard against harm and enmity;
This is my will; so Mote it Be!"

When as full of those items as possible, pour in red wine and shake. Seal with black or red wax. If you own your own house, bury this at the furthest most corner of your property. If you rent, place it in an inconspicuous place.

Herbal Witches’ Cleansing Bottle

Needed:

• large clear bottle
• sand
• dried rosemary
• dried lemon peel
• dried sage
• dry cedar
• black peppercorns
• dried lavender
• dried dill
• dried bay leaves
• dried rowan
• white candle (for wax to seal the jar)

Pour a layer of sand into the bottle, then add the herbs in layers. When the bottle is full, focus cleansing protective energy into the herbs and sand, and see a golden light radiating from the bottle. Visualize the herbs driving away negative influences. Cork and seal the bottle with white wax. Using a permanent marker, draw the Algiz rune

Image from Techno Feng Shui

on one side of the bottle, and on the other side draw a pentagram.

Set the bottle near your front or back door, and every six months uncap and pour the herbs out into the woods or you compost heap. Thoroughly wash and dry the bottle before filling it with a new round of herbs : )

 

Binding Spell

This spell is for binding a violent or dangerous person from doing harm. Caution: do not bind someone without very good reason. It doesn’t matter if you believe in Karma or Universal Balance or not. Belief doesn’t change reality. Also when considering a spell like this, remember magic isn’t always clean, pretty or nice…

Needed:

• photo of person to be bound

OR

• a piece of white parchment paper with their whole name written on it in black ink or dove's blood ink.
• 18 inches or so of black silken cord or black thick string, like embroidery floss.
• A small glass jar w/cork lid.
• A small white candle
• A small black candle

Light both your candles. Write the name on the paper or take the photograph in hand. Fold the paper or photo into as small a rectangle as possible. Take the cord in hand and begin to wind it around the rectangle, for a total of nine loops,
saying aloud in a clear, strong voice:

I (your name ), bind thee (name of offending person )
from causing harm to (name of victim here),
from exerting control over this person,
from influencing this person.
I bind you from making further plans with this person.
I call upon the angels, Auriel, Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael
(or any other guides or deities you prefer.)
to assist me in this righteous cause!
As I will,
So mote it be.

Place the paper into the jar. Urinate into the jar & cork. Seal all around the cork with the black candle wax. Let the candles burn themselves out safely. Place this jar in a place where no one will disturb it. Bury it if you must. Some prefer to keep it on their altar and send energy to it regularly.

House Protection Jar

Needed:

• 1 glass jar
• 1/2 to 1 cup salt
• 3 cloves garlic
• 9 bay leaves
• 7 tsp. dried Basil
• 4 tsp. dill seeds
• 1 tsp sage
• 1 tsp anise 
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp fennel
• 1 bowl

In the morning, ideally on a bright sunny day, assemble the items. Place all in the bowl and say:

"Salt that protects, protect my home and all within."

Add the cloves of garlic:

"Garlic that protects, protect my home and all within."

Crumble the Bay leaves and place in the bowl:

"Bay that protects, protect my home and all within."

Add the basil and say:

"Basil that protects, protect my home and all within."

Add the dill and say:

"Dill that protects, protect my home and all within."

Add the sage and say:

"Sage that protects, protect my home and all within."

Add the anise and say:

"Anise that protects, protect my home and all within."

Add the fennel and say:

"Fennel that protects, protect my home and all within."

Mix together the salt and the herbs with your hands, throughout the movement of your hands and fingers lend energy to the potent protective items, visualize your home safe and as a shining secure place. Pour the mixture in the jar and cap tightly, Place it in your home with these words:

"Salt and herbs, nine times nine
Guard now this home of mine"

Inspiration Jar

Purpose: To bring on inspiration. For creativity.
Neede:d

• Mason jar
• Small crystal
• Dried orange peels (two-thirds)
• Dried mint (one-third)
• 2 drops orange essential oil
• 1 drop mint essential oil
• Square piece of black cotton fabric
• Rubber band
• Orange fabric paint or orange acrylic
• Orange ribbon

**Note: The color orange is the color of creative energies. The shading (how dark or light the orange is) that you use will denote the level of creative energies you wish to channel. A dark orange will take you deep into the creative energies while a light orange is less intense.
Moon cycle: No moon cycle is selected for this spell because all phases of the moon hold different levels of creative energies, including the dark moon. If you follow moon phases, choose the cycle that fits your purpose best.

Gather ingredients. With a clean and dry jar before you, place the mint first and then the orange peels inside, filling it up about two-thirds of the way. Add two drops of orange essential oil and one drop mint essential oil. More if you are using a large mason jar. Stir ingredients together. Take the small crystal in your hand and say something such as:

"Creativity come to me
In whispers and dreams
And visions that gleam."

Place the crystal inside the jar with the potpourri. For the lid, cover the opening of the jar with black fabric so that the side of the fabric hangs down over the edges about 2 inches. With a pencil, mark the center top of the fabric. Take the fabric off the jar, lie it flat on a hard surface. Using orange paint, acrylic or fabric paint, paint on a spiral. (for those of you who are like me – can trip over a breeze…while the paint is drying, cover the jar temporarily with a lid so that it doesn't get spilled. )

Associations:

• Spiral: The spiral is a symbol of the dance of life. It shows the continuous cycle of ourselves going inward (within ourselves/our psyche) and then going outward (expressing ourselves).
• Black: The black fabric in this spell is used as an absorption color. Black absorbs all colors, all energies. By placing the orange spiral on this we are signifying just what those energies are that the black is absorbing, all creative energies.

Once the paint is dry, place the fabric on the jar once again. The spiral should now be on the centered top of the jar's mouth. Holding the fabric in place, wrap the rubber band around the sides to hold it in place. Next, tie the orange ribbon overtop of the rubber band. Keep this inspiration jar in your work area, where you can smell it’s inspiring scents - where you do your writing, painting, drawing, or keep it by your bed to bring on inspiring dreams.

Money Jar

Needed:

• paper & pen
• seven dimes
• quart jar with screw-on lid
• bay leaf

Write your need on the paper and drop it into the jar. Take 7 dimes in your dominate hand and place them one by one into the jar. As each one drops, visualize it multiplying into huge amounts and say:

"Toward this wish, the money grows
by leaps and bounds - it overflows.
Coins that jingle, coins that shine
come to me now - you are mine."

Write your name on the bay leaf and drop it into the jar. Screw on the lid and place the jar where you can see it everyday, but where it is not visible to everyone who enters your home. Add a coin or two to the jar each day, and watch as money flows to you from unexpected sources. After you obtain the money you need, remove the paper and bury it outside.

Sacred Salt Jar

This is not only great to have for oneself, but it makes a nice gift to someone special if you happen to know what scents they like or stones they like. Since what you put into it is "yours", it is like giving a part of yourself, too. This mixture is excellent to charge stones in and to "simmer energies". Once it has blended
for a few months, a pinch can be added to rituals, etc., bathwater or as a gift to Mother Earth. You can also make a "starter salt" as a gift for a friend. You can also give of your own sacred salt mixture to a special friend to help blend powers and energies when they make their own  sacred salt mixture : ) 
The mixture should be made and kept in a covered stone or Earthen jar, but can be made and kept in a covered glass jar until you find one that is suitable. There are different schools of thought on what kind of salt to use. Some use rock salt, some Earth salt and some sea salt, some even use normal table salt. Whatever salt you use, make sure that it is "natural" and not iodized.

Blend the salt with chopped or ground herbs, tiny crystals, small stones, nuts seeds,  jewelry, locks of hair, ground incense and a few drops of your favorite oils, anything that you wish. Even rose petals and other flowers. When you have cleansed and charged stones and crystals by sun and Moon, place them in this mixture to store until you wish to use them or give them as gifts.

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions / recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog

Thursday This Is Your Spell – To End Poverty

To End Poverty
from Dark Moon Mysteries by Timothy Roderick

In this working you will clear away the psychic dead wood of the past, such as poverty and ill luck, to foster a new cycle of growth and prosperity. It clears away the psychic dross that keeps you from taking the actions needed to create a prosperous life. Remember, abundance flows from the Goddess and God. They are abundance. Connecting with the Gods in their aspect of abundance is connecting with that same part of yourself. When you yield to nature, to the Gods, nature will yield its bounty to you.
Moon Phase: 4th quarter, last night of the dark moon.
Purpose: to end a cycle of lack.

Items Needed:
The following dried herbs and resins:

• powdered sandalwood
• pine needles
• rosemary
• copal
• fresh rose petals.
• Optional: saltpetre.
• White parchment paper.
• A box of crayons, colored pencils, or markers.
• An incense burner, chafing dish, or cauldron.
• A self-igniting charcoal (Three Kings brand is a choice).
• The usual tools for constructing a magic circle.

On the last night of the dark moon gather your herbs, combine them in a mortar, and grind them together. Make as much as you like, but you will only use about one tablespoon of the dried mixture total. After mixing, set it aside for a moment. Next create a circle on the floor using the fresh rose petals. Bring all of your ingredients and tools into the rose petal circle and cast a dark moon circle, using the petals as the boundary of the sacred space. Once the circle is cast, set aside all of your tools and sit in the circle's center. Do the following meditation before continuing with the magical work.

Ending Poverty Meditation: There is a place deep inside of you where poverty lives. Close your eyes and take a few slow, relaxing breaths. Imagine that you are traveling inside your body to that place where poverty lives. Take note of where that place is inside of you. Also take note of what this entity, poverty, looks like. What is it’s shape and color? What does it say to you? When you have taken note of all this, return to waking consciousness and continue with the magical working.

Using the crayons, markers, or colored pencils, draw the image of poverty you saw on the white parchment paper. Underneath that image, make a list of the effects of lack on your life. How does poverty manifest in your life? The next step is a little more difficult, but on that same page make a list of the things you do to help keep poverty alive. What is your part in perpetuating poverty? When you are done, sprinkle the herb mixture into the center of the parchment paper. If you choose to use saltpetre, sprinkle in a half teaspoon now. Twist the whole bundle shut, so that the parchment makes a little pouch containing the herb mix. Light the charcoal and set the paper pouch on the charcoal. Soon this will smolder. As it does, imagine that the spirit of poverty is leaving your body. Imagine that you cut off all life support to poverty, imagine how you will not cooperate with it any longer. When the herbs are completely burned, the spell is done. If any paper remains, light that on fire. Be certain tat nothing but ashes remain. Banish your circle and bury the ashes in a spot that you are not likely to tread upon. The magic is complete.

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions / recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog

Thursday This Is Your Spell – Ritual Use of House Cleaning

* The Ritual Use Of House Cleaning *
by Monti ElfDragon – Found in my collection of ‘Stuffs”
but also located online at Pagan Speak

I am someone who hates housework, who is totally disorganized, forgetful,and a stressed out mom of 3 little witchlets (each one a wyld chyld). I have a major problem of finding time for ritual and personal spiritual growth. Well, along came the Spellcraft Tapestry Spring Cleaning Edition. And I have discovered that I am starting to enjoy cleaning. I know this sounds silly. I can hear you housework haters out there........." this witch chick has lost ALL her marbles!"

Now, let me explain what I have started doing. This amazing thing that has turned a drudgery, something to be put off. Into something to look forward to. As a Kitchen Witch, I try to make everything I do, every moment in my life magical. Because I have so little time for ritual. I decided to incorporate specific rituals in everything I do. I have turned cleaning into a magical ritual. This works for me. It may not work for others in just this way, so experiment. Make it your own. I started to make my own cleaners. When I make them, I create them magically. That is, I ritually charge them with what is needed in my life. Or what I need to be rid of. I also magically charge any store bought cleaners with specific intent.

Each day before I start to clean. I ground and center. Then meditate on what I need to do that day. I meditate on what I want in my life(good habits,love, peace, joy, prosperity, etc.) And/or the things I want to be rid of,(anger, resentment, bad habits, strife, stress, etc.) I then light the appropriate color candle and incense. I have found that when I meditate on the things to do and the things I want/don't want in my life. I can visualize the need with the appropriate chore. As an example, I have been feeling the need for clarity and organization of thought and deed. The chore that came to me was; cleaning & polishing mirrors and glass. Cleaning is pretty mindless sometimes. So visualization comes easily. I just asked the Lord and Lady for what I needed. And visualized being organized(able to accomplish everything I set out to do). And, visualized myself with clarity of mind and purpose. I may not get everything accomplished that I set out to do that day. But I find that I accomplish more than normally.

Believe it or not, but scrubbing the toilet is great for getting rid of anger and resentment. Visualize all your anger and resentment into the toilet bowl, add it to all the yuck in the bowl. As you are scrubbing the toilet see yourself scrubbing away your anger, resentment, or anything you want gone from your life. Then flush, as the yucky water is flushed away, see those things you want gone being flushed away as well.

Cleaning the woodwork and oiling/polishing it down, is great for adding good things into your life. Although for me it filled me with wonderful ideas, thoughts and feelings(ways to reach my goals).

Laundry

I also magically charge laundry detergent to cleanse all psychic yuck that collects, as well as the mundane dirt. Imbue your fabric softener with things you want in you and your family's lives. Putting clothes away for me, the disorganized person that I am. Is a treat my family looks forward to. They are very lucky if it gets done in a timely fashion. So, when I fold/hang them I visualize order in my mind, in my life. As I fold my families clothes. I fill each article of clothing with love and peace for each member of my family. If there is some really nasty things going on in your life or the lives of family members, i.e. rough time at work or school, or an illness. A few drops of an appropriately charged oil in the laundry works wonders.

Scrubbing Floors and Walls

If you make your own cleaners, or if you use commercial cleaners, as you are mixing them up. Visualize the cleaner not only cleaning away the dirt and grime, but psychically cleaning your home/room of any bad psychic energies. When you mix up your rinse water, add a couple of drops of a protection oil, or a peace and harmony herbal infusion. The direction in which you clean will be determined by whether you are wanting to bring something into your life (clockwise), or getting rid of something(counter-clockwise)

Dishwashing and Spiritual Growth

I really must give Diane (St. Lucy, Mom) credit for this one. This is her sink meditation. Put a pagan picture above your kitchen sink, or something that comforts you (I have a lovely view of my woods as well as my prayer to Brigit, a few Witch Bottles, plants and such). As you run the water, stick your hands in the water and see the stream washing away all of the schmoo that builds up in your aura......and down the drain. Then make a mental note of something you want to get rid of, and visualize it coating the dishes. As you wash the dishes see the problem being washed away. It helps keep the stress levels down a lot. I also say my prayer to Brigit out loud as I'm finishing up the dishes. I also try to say it every time I am at the sink. Even if its just to get a drink of water.

"Great Goddess Brigit
I ask for your inspiration
In all my endeavors
Help me to learn new things
Please give me the gifts
Of poetry and creativity
Help me to clean out the old and musty
In my mind and heart
Show me how to make mundane tasks
A joy and Honor to you
Make my hands, my lips, my mind
My heart and my soul, a blessing to you
Forge me into your instrument
That I may be a blessing
To you and the Old Ones
As well as a blessing to all I meet
May they see your love and power in me
Teach me to Honor you in being
A wife, a mother, and keeping a home
I dedicate my life to you
My body, soul, heart, and mind
To your service
So mote it be ! ! “

Vacuuming

Vacuuming the carpet is when I come up with some of my best ideas. Also with 3 small witchlets, 2 dogs and 1 cat. I have to vacuum at least twice a day. Every other night after the family is in bed. I mix up some baking soda, salt and powdered herbs. I infuse this mixture with peace and love, and let it sit overnight to absorb odors, then vacuum it the next morning. It keeps the house smelling fresh and the family happy. At least once a month I use this vacuum cleaner spell to get rid of unwanted energies that may have built up. A simple ritual that can be adapted for just about any need or purpose.

Supplies:

• Vacuum cleaner
• Powdered herbs (for specific intent), mixed with equal parts
• Baking Soda and Salt
• Quarter Candles, Altar candles, Candle of intent
• Incense

Gather supplies at your altar (or the center of your house). Ground and center. If you are doing a home purification ritual put the quarter candles at the cardinal points in your home (not all in one room). Establish sacred space as you light the quarter candles. You can do a full blown circle, or this simple one; (for this one light the quarter candles before or after you establish sacred space, your choice. Or you can omit the quarter candles.)
Face north;

"Here in the center of the world I stand.
Earth is before me, Air on my right hand.
Fire is behind me,  on my left water lies,
As I stand here between
The earth and the skies."

At your altar, prepare your powdered herbs with a mortar and pestle, while visualizing your intent. Mix equal parts of herbs, salt and baking soda in a large ceramic bowl or vessel, still visualizing your intent. For increasing Magic, stir with your hands clockwise. For decreasing Magic, stir with your hands counterclockwise infusing it with your intent.

Starting at your front door move deosil for increasing; widdershins for decreasing/banishing Magic. Sprinkle the herb/salt/soda on your carpet. If you so desire you can draw (sand paint) runes, pentacles or other magical symbols of your intent, saying appropriate words for each symbol. Or words such as these for purification/house blessing:

"Begone and leave, all hate, strife, ill will, and bad luck!!
In the Names of the God and Goddess I cleanse this house!!
This home is a sacred sanctuary of peace
For Myself, My Family, and our Friends!!
Anger and misfortune have NO place here!!"

Do this in every room of your house. When done return to the altar. Visualize your intent. For purification, see the salt, soda, and herbs drawing in, absorbing the negativity, anger, strife, whatever is troubling your house. Cense your vacuum cleaner, saying these or similar words:

"I ask the Lord and Lady
And the guardians of the quarters
To bless this home,
Grant us harmony, knowledge, freedom,
Love, healing, perception, pleasure,
Friendship and happiness.
Grant us riches, treasure, prosperity,
Employment, stability,success,
Business and money.
'An it harm none, So mote it be."

Starting at your front door, vacuum in a clockwise direction. When finished, throw out the vacuum cleaner bag (outside). Visualizing all that psychic goop/bad luck/bad feelings / illness/whatever, is being thrown out with the bag.

These are just a few ideas that I have come up with that work very well for me.I also have 3x5 cards tacked up all over the place with all this information. In my laundry room, with my cleaning supplies, the inside of cabinet doors all over my house. My family thinks I'm crazy but it helps me jog my memory. Since I have started doing this, I have received many answers to my questions. Figured out ways to organize my time and life. Gotten rid of unwanted thoughts, feelings, anger and things that were keeping me down. I've welcomed the new thoughts, feelings and ideas into my life joyfully. I realized, that even though I don't have everything I want or need, that I am not where I want to be"yet", I am well on my way. Each day, I wake up to the joy that life has to offer. I am becoming more patient with myself and others. I am accomplishing more each day, and feeling good about myself. I am more at peace.

I still find I get sidetracked, but I try to get back on track quickly. And figure out why I got sidetracked in the first place, and ways to prevent it next time.

The following are some oils and herbs that I have found useful in ritual cleaning:

Oils

Prosperity: Almond, Bergamot, Honeysuckle, Mint, Peony, Bayberry, Hyssop, Clove, Ginger, Nutmeg, Pine, Basil

Healing: Carnation, Mimosa, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Eucalyptus, Lotus, Clove, Pine, Lavender, Myrrh

Protection: Basil, Frankincense, Lavender, Myrrh, Bergamot, Cinnamon, Cypress, Rose Geranium, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Gardenia

Purification/Cleansing: Bay, Benzoin, Chamomile, Camphor, Cedarwood, Cinnamon, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Lavender, Lemon, Lemon Verbena, Myrrh, Peppermint, Pine, Rosemary, Sandalwood,

Success: Bergamot, Clove, Ginger, Lemon Balm, Apple Blossom

Happiness: Lavender, Lily of The Valley, Marjoram, Apple Blossom, Lotus, Magnolia, Basil, Orange

Peace: Lavender, Gardenia, Passionflower, Skullcap, Cumin Seed, Lilac, Magnolia, Narcissus, Rose, Tuberose

Blessings: Benzoin, Cumin Seed, Rue

Harmony: Basil, Cumin Seed, Lilac, Narcissus

Love: Rose, Jasmine, Basil, Chamomile, Cinnamon, Clove, Ginger, Lavender, Lemon, Lemon Balm, Lemon Verbena, Lime, Neroli, Orange, Palmarosa, Rosemary, Yarrow, Ylang-Ylang

Herbs

Purification/Cleansing: Anise, Bay, Calamus, Chamomile, Camphor, Cedarwood, Eucalyptus, Fennel, Hyssop, Lavender, Lemon, Lemon Verbena, Lime, Mimosa, Parsley, Peppermint, Pine, Rosemary, Thyme, Valerian, Vervain

Protection: Angelica, Anise, Balm of Gilead, Basil, Bay, Bergamot, Calmus, Carnation, Cedarwood, Cinnamon, Cinquefoil, Clove Clover, Cumin, Cypress, Doll, Rose Geranium, Heather, Honeysuckle, Hyssop, Juniper, Lavender, Lilac, Mugwort, Orris, Patchouli, Pennyroyal, Peppermint, Pine, Rose, Rue, Sage, Violet, Woodruff

Peace/Harmony: Cumin, Gardenia, Lavender, Lilac, Loosestrife, Meadowsweet, Narcissus, Pennyroyal, Tuberose, Violet

Love: Apple Blossom, Basil, Chamomile, Catnip, Chickweed, Cinnamon, Clove, Gardenia, Rose Geranium, Ginger, Jasmine, Lavender, Lemon, Lemon Balm, Lemon Verbena, Marjoram, Mimosa, Myrtle, Orchid, Orris, Peppermint, Rose, Rosemary, Thyme, Tuberose, Vanilla, Violet Yarrow

Healing: Allspice, Angelica, Bay, Carnation, Cedarwood, Cinnamon, Citron, Eucalyptus, Gardenia, Heliotrope, Honeysuckle, Juniper, Lemon Balm, Mugwort, Peppermint, Pine, Rose, Rosemary, Spearmint, Thyme, Violet, Willow, Wintergreen, Yerba Santa

Prosperity: Allspice, Basil, Bergamot, Chamomile, Cedarwood, Cinnamon, Clove, Elder, Ginger, Honeysuckle, Jasmine, Nutmeg, Orange, Patchouli, Peppermint, Pine, Sage, Woodruff

To make an infusion to add to your rinse water steep 1 to 2 small handfuls of herb in 1 quart boiling for 30 minutes. I hope you find something useful in this article. Like I said before experiment, make it your own.

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.

Friday Form A Circle – Ritual To Get A Job

Job Ritual

Here are the things you need:

• 3 white candles(to add to your spiritual strength)
• 1 pink ( to add to your general success)
• 1 yellow ( to instill confidence)
• 1 green ( for money, luck financial success)
• 1 purple ( to give ambition, and to promote business progress)
• 1 black ( to soak up the negative energies)
• Oils, either success oil (if you have it) or Frankincense oil, your choice really.
• Incense: frankincense, or myrrh( again your choice)

Carve into each candle a pentagram  Anoint the candles. Write on a piece of parchment paper what you desire and if you know the name of the person that would do the interview write their name on the paper. If you don't have the name of the person interviewing you, write down the company name. Then write down these words, for Power, Skill and Fame

Helimaz
Feridox
Solodar.

Now meditate and say this ritual:

Daily desire in myself grows
To have (name what it is you desire) in my life show.
Soon this reality I will know.
What I am seeking will seek me
I have the power to see it through
So my desire to ( name desire) will come to me
Energy flowing giving added strength to me
Success in my desires growing steadily
(name desire) is realized quickly
(name desire) coming to the fore
(name desire) to have forevermore.

Sit and meditate on what you want, Repeat this ritual for 9 days.
This ritual needs to be done at night. At the end of the 9 days, burn the paper over the green candle.

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions / recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.

Wednesday What Herb is This - Mistletoe

 

* The Magic of Mistletoe *
by M.L. Benton, © 2002, Echoed Voices: December 2002
   

Blessed be this mistletoe,
    With all the charms it may bestow.
    Cut the stem with the gold boline,
    As energies rise, its magic is thine.
    Never let it hit the ground,
    Or evil shall within abound.
    Herb of Apollo, Freya and more,
    Their will be done as we implore.
    With all thy healing properties,
    Grant your Blessings; hear our pleas.
    Legends and lore of old exist,
    Under the mistletoe we still kiss.
    Harvest at the Solstice and on time,
    During the festival the bells will chime.
    Bring us blessings from under the Sun,
    As this is our Will, So shall it be done.

With all the mystical legends and lore of the herb mistletoe, unfortunately the origin of its name is not so magical. The common name of this herb is derived from the belief that mistletoe comes from dung or bird droppings. The principle of this ancient belief stems from the appearance of mistletoe on branches where bird droppings had been splashed. "Mistel" is the Anglo-Saxon word for dung and "tan" is the word for twig, so in translation, mistletoe means "dung on a twig."

Botanically, mistletoe is considered a parasitic plant, It grows on branches or the trunk of trees and will bore and root into the tree for its nutrients. Mistletoe is however very capable of living and growing prosperously of its own accord and providing its own food and nutrients through photo-synthesis. As the plant spreads however it seems to be perfectly content growing as a parasitic plant.

There are two types of mistletoe. The first is found in North America, (Phoradendron Flavescens) this type is better known as the parasitic plant and is most common for harvesting for the Christmas and Yule celebrations. These can be found on the East Coast regions from Florida to New Jersey. The second type is found in Europe, {Viscum Album} This version of mistletoe is grown as a green shrub with tiny yellow and white flowers, and sticky berries which are considered poisonous. It is known to grow on the apple tree but believed not to grow on an oak tree.

The virtues of mistletoe come from the earliest of times and are just as mystical and mysterious, as they are magical. The Greeks believed that mistletoe had mystical powers and through the centuries it became associated with many folklore customs. In European history, mistletoe is one of the most sacred plants. With the many properties of this sacred herb, it was believed to bestow life and fertility would be prosperous. It was considered a protector against poisons and a passionate aphrodisiac. The ancient Druids considered the mistletoe their most sacred herb. They believed that mistletoe growing on oak trees possessed magical properties and considered it an all-heal, which would protect against all forms of evil. In Celtic traditions, on the sixth night of the moon white-robed Druid priests would cut the oak mistletoe with a golden sickle or boline. They would then sacrifice two white bulls while reciting prayers that the recipients of the mistletoe would prosper. As time went by, the ritual of cutting the mistletoe from the oak came to symbolize the emasculation of the old King by his successor. Mistletoe symbolized both a sexual emblem and the "soul" of the oak. Because of this sacred belief, the herb was gathered at both mid-summer and winter solstices.

The custom of using mistletoe to decorate houses at Christmas is a survival of the Druid and other pre-Christian traditions. In the Middle Ages and later, branches of mistletoe were hung from ceilings to ward off evil spirits. In Europe they were placed over the house and stable doors to prevent the entrance of witches. It was also believed that the oak mistletoe could extinguish fire. This was associated with an earlier belief that the mistletoe itself would come to the tree during a flash of lightning. The traditions, which began with the European mistletoe, were rationalized with the North American plant with the process of immigration and migrating. Today the belief is, in order for the mistletoe to be effective in magical spells, the herb must be cut with a single stroke of a golden sickle or boline on the Summer Solstice, Winter Solstice or the sixth day after a new moon. However you must take care not to let the herb touch the earth or the herb will lose its magical potency.

Mistletoe is known to have several names including, "all heal, devil'sfuge, golden bough, and Witch's broom. This magical herb also is believed to be sacred to the gods and goddesses, Apollo, Freya, Frigga, Odin and Venus. The mystical powers of mistletoe have long been at the center of much folklore. One is associated with the Goddess Frigga. The story is told that Mistletoe is the sacred plant of Frigga, goddess of love and the mother of Balder, the god of the summer sun. Balder had a dream of death that greatly alarmed his mother, for if he died, all of life on earth would end. In an attempt to keep this from happening, Frigga went at once to the four elements air, fire, water, earth, and every animal and plant seeking a promise that no harm would come to her son. Balder now could not be harmed by any deed from this world or below it. Balder did however have one enemy. Loki, the god of trickery and confusion. Loki knew of one plant that Frigga had overlooked in her excursion to keep her son safe. It grew neither on the earth nor under the earth, but on apple and oak trees. It was the beloved mistletoe. Loki made an arrow tip of the mistletoe, he then gave it to Hoder, the blind God of winter, who shot the arrow striking Balder dead. The sky paled and all things in earth and heaven wept for the sun god. For three days each element tried to bring Balder back to life. Frigga, the goddess and his mother finally restored him. It is said the tears she shed for her son turned into the pearly white berries on the mistletoe plant and in her joy Frigga kissed everyone who passed beneath the tree on which it grew. The story ends with a decree that who should ever stand under the humble mistletoe, no harm should befall them, only a kiss, a token of love. It is believed that this was the core for the translation of the old myth into a Christianized way of thinking and acceptance of the mistletoe as the emblem of that Love which conquers Death.

Its medicinal properties, whether real or imaginary, make it a just emblem of that Tree of Life, the leaves of which are for the healing of the nations and draws parallels to the Virgin birth of Christ. Kissing under the mistletoe is first found associated with the Greek festival of Saturnalia and later with primitive marriage rites. They probably originated from the belief that it has power to bestow fertility. It was also believed that the dung from which the mistletoe grew possessed "life-giving" power. In Scandinavia, mistletoe was considered a plant of peace, under which enemies could declare a truce or warring spouses kiss and make-up. Later, the eighteenth-century English credited with a certain magical appeal a device called a kissing ball. At Christmas time a young lady standing under a ball of mistletoe, brightly trimmed with evergreens, ribbons, and ornaments, could not refuse to be kissed. Such a kiss could mean deep romance or lasting friendship and goodwill. If the girl remained unkissed, she could not expect to marry the following year. In some parts of England the Christmas mistletoe is burned on the Twelfth Night lest all the boys and girls who have kissed under it never marry. If a couple in love exchanges a kiss under the mistletoe, it is interpreted as a promise to marry, as well as a prediction of happiness and long life. In France, the custom linked to mistletoe was reserved for New Year's Day: "Au gui l'An neuf" (Mistletoe for the New Year). Today, kisses can be exchanged under the mistletoe any time during the holiday season.

Bibliography
Holiday Spot
Herbal Magick by Gerina Dunwich, New Page Books
Botanical.com

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.

Saturday Special Stones - Garnet

GARNET

Garnets are found in the U.S. in Arizona and largely in Idaho. The Garnet Queen Mine in Idaho produces a highly saturated dark red garnet. Arizona is known for a garnet ranging in color and clarity from fiery red to reddish lavender. Other states that have notable occurrences of garnet include: New Mexico, Utah, Arkansas and Kentucky. This stone is also found around the world. Africa, including Tanzania, Kenya, Zimbabwe and Mozambique produces significant amounts of this gem. It is also mined in Bavaria, Germany, Spain, Czechoslovakia, Sri Lanka, the Ural Mountains in Russia, and Brazil, as well as India, Madagascar, Bohemia, Switzerland, Scotland, Asia, Saxony, Canada, Pakistan, Burma and Mexico. Garnet gets it's name from the Latin word "granatum" meaning seed or grain. It took on this name for it's similarity in looks to a pomegranate seed. Pomegranate's association and symbolism with garnet has been a long standing one and has been referenced and related to in many works of literature up to and including those of Greek Mythology - the most notable reference involving Hades and Persephone.The most popular color Garnet is known for is a deep maroon or dark red color but garnet is a family of gems that come in many different colors (excluding blue). Throughout history some garnets have been mistaken for rubies because of their tendency to exhibit a different shade of color when viewed from different directions under certain light conditions. Garnet is a semiprecious stone that is brilliant in jewelry. In Europe, they were worked into jewelry a good deal, especially in the Victorian period. Genuine Bohemian garnet jewelry was traditionally set with a large number of small stones, which were close to one another like the seeds of a pomegranate, with their red sparkle. And today too, garnets are still found in former Czechoslovakia and when used in jewelry, set close together according to the old tradition.

The legends surrounding garnet show the long standing history of it's healing properties and garnet was also among the first semiprecious stones to be mentioned in writings in ancient times. Garnet has been known as the stone which was the source of illumination for Noah in the Ark to light the path and the inside of the boat. It is also noted that Crusaders adorned themselves with garnets as protection in battle and a symbol of safe return to their loved ones. The garnet is also one of the twelve stones, that represent today's birthstones, that adorn the breastplate of the high priest Aaron, and Garnet is also believed to have been worn by King Solomon in times of battle. In the 13th century Garnets were worn to repel insects, and some Asiatic tribes once used garnets as bullets, believing that the red stone would cause a more deadly wound than a leaden bullet. There has been said to exist a village of "lake dwellers" around the area now known as Europe who fashioned neck ornaments from it - jewelry has been found that dates back to the Bronze Age (~3000 BC). It also has a deep history with warriors and journeyers. It's rich mythical and historical background contribute to the brilliance of it's beauty. Garnet has long been associated with fire and illumination for many ancient cultures and has been used by various Indian tribes to enhance the potency of fire and to heal and enlighten their people. Among these tribal groups are Mayans, Aztecs, certain African tribes, Native American and South American Indians. It has also been said that garnet has been ground up into a soft silky mass and heated to act as a medicinal remedy for fever. Eastern Indians rubbed garnet on themselves in order to obtain their glowing qualities.  Garnet has also been said to light the palace of the medieval monarch of Abyssinia.  It has been known to be buried, in jewelry form (necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings, pendants and amulets) with the dead of Scandinavia to light their passage to the next life. In early writings garnet had been mistaken for rubies and were said to fend off evil spirits. Garnet has also been noted to adorn the belongings of powerful royalty. Some of these include the wives of the Russian Czars, Queen Victoria of Great Britain and Mary Queen of Scots. Documentation of ancient jewelry containing garnet has been found among remains located in Sweden between 1100 and 2000 B.C., in Samaria around 2300 B.C. and in Egypt in 3100 B.C. As early as the later years of 400 B.C., garnet jewelry was found in Greece. More specifically, signet rings found (in this area of Europe) were discovered. It is believed that Greeks were the first to use garnet at this capacity. Garnet has also been documented as a largely admired treasure in Greece during the 3rd and 4th centuries. As mentioned previously, garnet had been found as early as 3100 B.C. in Egypt. It has further been noted that early Egyptians frequently used garnet in amulets and talismans. Garnet was also believed to buried within the tombs of the dead for protection and light through the passage of after death experience.

Garnet is believed to have served many medicinal purposes some of which were recorded throughout Medieval History. Documents dating from this time period state that garnets had been believed to protect one from poisons. Other sicknesses were believed to be cured by garnet including those dealing with blood and infection. Garnet is called the "stone of health", as it is a powerful healing stone (especially green garnets). Only clear Garnets, cut and polished should be used for healing. Garnet has also been known (by ancient Egyptians and others) to purify the body of toxins such as venoms, intestinal and blood poisons. It's protective capacities revolve around defending against anything that can bring tension to the mind body or spirit of an individual, up to and including protection from nightmares, fever, wound infection, sorrow, anxiety, infidelity and even car accidents. Because of the shared similarities in physical and compositional traits, the garnet family of stones (for the most part) also share similar healing properties. In light of the above, the different colors and different chemistries of garnet varieties allow them to have some healing properties exclusive to that particular crystal. Green garnets are healing crystals that bring aide in meditation and focus. Orange garnets are associated with energy of commitment and can help an individual to solemnly dedicate themselves to any endeavor that captures the need for awaited attention. Purple-colored garnets possess the tenacity to lessen subtle anxieties and stress brought on by worry and unrest. They also help stabilize a mind in turmoil. The most common form of garnets readily available and more commonly known are the various shades of red. Red garnets, like many red crystals are associated with passion. Often called the "Passion Stone", red garnets represent love. The loving powers of garnet tend to reflect the attributes of devotion, bringing  the love of others to expressions of warmth and understanding. They are used to stimulate your desires, increase your sexual appetite, rekindle feelings and renew love. Though many red stones are found to heal the slings and arrows that love throws our way, it is not necessarily the sole healing function of this and other red healing gems. Along with being a gem that ignites and refuels the red fires of passion and romance, it also sets ablaze the inner fires of self-confidence, creativity and reflection. Since anger causes the body's physical temperature to increase, the opposing fire of positive energy from which garnet burns, can be used against tantrums and episodes of angst. As its color strongly resembles that of menstrual blood, Garnet is known as the stone of fertility. Women often wore it around their waist to help with their menstrual cycle. It also is used to help in circulation and the clotting of the blood. Used by ancient cultures, it has also been used to treat paralysis and exhaustion,and for detoxing and strengthening one's blood. Garnet has also been identified by healers as another of the vivid dreaming stones and one of past remembrance. Garnet's emotional and mental healing associated with purification, regeneration and warmth also carry over to it's qualities of physical healing. As a healer and protector from toxins, garnet is recognized as a remedy in the body's fight against food poisoning and blood toxicity. It is also known for aiding in treatments against infection of the kidney, lung and facial (irritations, inflammation and blemishes) area. The garnet family is also an aid to therapy for disorders of the heart (including low blood pressure), bones and spine, blood, pulmonary and even sleeping disorders. It has even been noted to provide gallstone relief and also work down to a cellular level. Because of it's warming energies, it is also used therapeutically for frostbite, aching muscles, arthritis and other discomforts relating to the joints. In early history, recordings of garnet use to treat jaundice and yellow fever were made.  Today, garnet is still used by healers to treat fever and even balance antibodies and hormones.

One of the major characteristics of garnet is that it is known as a purifier. Among it's most powerful healing abilities is as a cleanser of the bodies energies. It is used actively by spiritual healers to cleanse any type of toxins within the body and/or spirit. Not only does it renew and purify it takes purification to the next level by revitalizing and restoring a broken or damaged spirit. Garnet is widely recognized as a spiritual stone that heals and intensifies relationships. It is, however, sometimes overlooked that (aside from healing and intensifying) garnet also can transmute a relationship to a higher, more spiritual level. The garnet provides a protective influence and a calming stable vitality during use. It can be used to bring order to chaos. Garnet is the ideal stone for the protection of love and spirituality and it's symbol as an amulet of guardianship is longstanding. This stone is especially useful in magic done to keep wife, mother and family safe. Garnet is continually used to purify and heal - spiritual healing with garnet as an aide can help to increase the will to accept and flourish in life. It is worn for extra strength, both physical and emotional - it strengthens the aura and creates a shield of highly charged positive vibrations which repels negative energies. It is said to protect against thieves, (for example, a would-be mugger might pass you by because of the bad vibes you (to his senses) would emit, thus protecting you). If obtained unlawfully, a Garnet stone or amulet will bear a curse upon the wearer until it is returned to its lawful owner. Garnet amulets protect the wearer from all dangers while traveling, and according to traditional beliefs, it also protects the wearer against lightning. Garnet is often exchanged between parting friends to ensure they meet again - when given as a gift to a friend, it is a symbol of happiness and loyalty. Garnets are known to help calm anger especially anger directed toward the self, as well as sharpening self perception. Garnet in general facilitates access to spiritual planes,and so it assists astral travel and clairvoyance, plus it enhances greater vision, psychic awareness, dreams and wisdom and are used as talismans against bad dreams and depression. Sleeping with a Garnet will protect you from bad dreams and will also help you to remember your dreams. They bring to one better balance, luck, success and increased self esteem. Carry a garnet amulet with you to allow you to express emotions with a  greater ease and to encourage honesty with self. Carrying a Garnet also enhances one’s internal fire, bringing the creative powers to the stage of implementation. Use Garnet in fire, water and Mars magic. Garnet draws happiness, power, possessions and peace. It aids with patience, persistence, sexuality and purification. Use garnet to help align the emotional body to the spiritual body. Garnet is a good balancer of the yin/yang energies.  Make a Garnet the center of a wreath to help protect your home against storms.  Garnet is thought to assist in seeing into past incarnations.  Garnet can also be worn or used in magic to enhance the body’s strength. Garnet attracts abundance, and success, especially in business ventures. When engraved with the symbol of a lion, Garnet is a powerful amulet for attracting good health and success. An ancient Greco-Roman tradition claims that when engraved with the image of a dragon and worn as a talisman, the garnet brings riches, joy, and good health. It continually remains a symbol today of faith, truth and light.

Sources:

Sarah the Swampwitch

Jewelry Supplier

ICA

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.

Thursday This is Your Spell - Halloween Prosperity

* Pumpkin Prosperity Spell *
from "HALLOWEEN, Spells, Customs and Recipes" by Silver Ravenwolf

If you need to harvest a little money this Samhain season, try this spell.
You will need:

• 1 small (not miniature)-sized pumpkin
• The amount of money you need, written on a piece of plain white paper in
• green ink (if you don't know how much you need, give a rough figure, but
  don't make the request outrageous - the universe works to our needs, not
  necessarily on our wants)
• 1 bag fresh dirt
• 7 dimes
• 7 pumpkin seeds from this pumpkin
• 7 ounces of rain water or water from a stream (no tap or bottled water)
• Pencil
• Lodestone, Optional
  

Cut the top off the pumpkin in a scallop design (to aid the flow of money to you). Clean out the pumpkin. (Save the seed for other magical work.) Remember to keep 7 seeds for this spell. Place the pumpkin in the refrigerator until Halloween Eve. One-half hour before Halloween Eve (not after), bring out the pumpkin, the piece of paper with the dollar amount you need written on it, the dirt, dimes, seed, and the water. Place the paper in the bottom of the pumpkin. Pour in the dirt. With the end of the pencil, make seven holes in the dirt in a circular pattern (keep the holes at least one inch apart). Hold the first dime in your hand and think about the amount of money you need. (Important, do not think negative thoughts about the money you need, no matter how desperate you are.) Keep the dime in your hand until it grows warm and you feel good inside. With the pencil, push the first dime in the hole that coincides with 12 o'clock. Follow the same procedure going clockwise, with the other six dimes. (if you happen to have a lodestone hanging around, bury it in the middle of the dirt.) Now, starting at the 12 o'clock and going clockwise, pour 1 ounce of water into each hole. When you are finished, hold your hands over the pumpkin and say:

"One dime for beginnings
One dime for drawing
One dime for growth
One dime for stability
One dime for banishing negativity
One dime for luck
One dime to seal the spell.
So mote it be!"

Bury the pumpkin on your property the following night one half hour before midnight (no later).

* LOVE APPLE SPELL LIGHTS *
from "HALLOWEEN, Spells, Customs and Recipes" by Silver Ravenwolf

(you can tailor the apple spell for prosperity, protection or spiritual prayer--or you can simply use the apple candles to decorate the table at your next Halloween Party)

You will need:

• 
  1 fresh apple as large and as glossy as you can find
• An apple corer
• 1 white taper candle
  

At 15 minutes before midnight on Halloween Eve hold the apple in your hands and ask Spirit to bless the fruit. Hum to yourself thinking of bringing love into your life (but not a specific person. you know the drill) Continue to hum until the apple gets warm in your hands. Insert the apple corer into the stem of the apple and take out the core. Make sure not to make the hole bigger that the circumference of the candle. Hold the candle in your hands and hum again, thinking of bringing love toward you until, like the apple, the candle gets warm in your hands. Put the candle in the apple and say: 

"Great Mother Goddess
Sweet, divine
Bring love to this heart of mine.."

Allow the candle to burn until it goes out but keep a watchful eye on it to make sure accidents don't happen (personal note... I like to keep mine in the sink or tub when I have to let them burn out.)

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.

Thursday This Is Your Spell - Halloween Charm Bag For Drawing Money

* Halloween Charm Bag For Drawing Money *from "HALLOWEEN, Spells, Customs and Recipes" by Silver Ravenwolf

You could make a bunch of these to use as Witchy Party favors at your Samhain party.... Write the instructions and ingredients to the charm but provide each guest with the orange bag. Okay here we go.....

you will need (per charm):

7 pumpkin seeds

1/4 teaspoon dried, ground pumpkin rind

1/4 teaspoon dried mint

1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon

1 silver coin

1 small orange flannel bag with 17 in. red ribbon

black felt pen

On a new moon before Halloween, mix the herbal ingredients together while chanting quietly:

"East and west, and south and north

Prosperity, I bring thee forth."

Draw a dollar sign on each side of the pumpkin seeds. Add the pumpkin seeds to the mixture. Pour into the orange bag. Hold the coin in your hands until it gets warm. Humming the same chant all through this. On the following Thursday, hold the bag in your hands and repeat the chant until the bag becomes warm. Add 7 knots to the ribbon around the bag - two are for money, three for abundance, four for stability, five for protection, six for luck, and the seventh know to seal the spell. Put away until Samhain. On Samhain, hold the bag in your hands over the need fire until the bag warms in your hands. Repeat the chant as you do this. Keep on your person or in your purse etc. Good for one full year. You can rework the spell on a new moon to keep the bag at its peak This makes a very nice gift for the certain someone.

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.

Saturday Special Stones - Peridot

Picture from The Mystic Eye

The name of the gemstone peridot is believed to come from either the Arabic word faridat meaning "gem" or the French word peritot meaning "unclear." It is also claimed to be derived from the Greek word 'peridona', which means something like 'to give richness'.  The peridot is one of the few gemstones which comes in one color only. The rich, green color with the slight tinge of gold is caused by very fine traces of iron - the intensity of the color depends on the amount of iron actually present. The color itself can vary over all shades of yellowish green and olive, and even to a brownish green. Peridot cat's eyes and star peridot are particularly rare and precious. The most beautiful stones come from the border area between Pakistan and Afghanistan. However, the peridot as a gemstone also exists in Myanmar, China, the USA, Africa and Australia. Stones from East Burma, now known as Myanmar, have a vivid light green and fine inclusions with a silky shine to them. Peridot from Arizona, where it is popularly used in native American jewelry, often has somewhat yellowish or gold-brown nuances. The earliest recorded production of peridot was in about 70 A.D. from St. Johns Island in the Red Sea, about 54 kilometers off the coast of Egypt, which was "lost" for centuries and rediscovered about1900. Almost all of the earliest known peridot gems came from this location and small amounts of material are still being produced from there today. Peridot was mined for over 3,500 years on St Johns Island, and It has now been mostly exhausted.  Having said that, the peridot is also a thoroughly modern gemstone, for it was not until a few years ago that peridot deposits were located in the Kashmir region; and the stones from those deposits, being of an incomparably beautiful color and transparency, have succeeded in giving a good polish to the image of this beautiful gemstone, which had paled somewhat over the millennia.
Peridot has been adored since ancient times and has been valued for centuries - the peridot is a very old gemstone, and one which has become very popular again today. It is so ancient that it can be found in Egyptian jewelry from the early 2nd millennium B.C., and ancient papyri record the mining of these stones as early as 1500 BC. Ancient Egyptians knew it as “the gem of the sun,” although they believed its seekers might not find it in sunlight. (Because of their brightness in the desert sun, the stones were supposedly invisible by daylight.) The ancient Romans too were fond of this gemstone and esteemed its radiant green shine, which does not change even in artificial light, but rather the stone glows a brilliant green. For that reason they nicknamed it the 'emerald of the evening' and rings of peridot were worn to relieve depression. People in the Middle Ages wore peridot to gain foresight and divine inspiration. Legend has it that pirates favored peridot to protect them against evil. It was greatly prized by Egyptian Kings, and some of Cleopatra's emeralds were in fact peridots. Anciently, large chunks of peridot were found in Hawaii, where peridot symbolizes the goddess Pele's tears. (Some Hawaiian beaches are packed with tiny grains of peridot that are too small to cut.) These large chunks found their way to the the Egyptians, who made small drinking vessels out of them. They were used in rituals, and the priests would drink soma from them. The soma would put them in touch with the nature goddess, Isis. (Legend has it that King Solomon traded many cedar trees from Lebanon for 12 soma drinking cups and 144 liters of soma. The Egyptians made this trade for ramp logs to build their pyramids at Gisa. King Solomon was said to have been made wise and enlightened by the drinking of soma from the peridot cups.)
In the middle ages, Europeans brought peridot stones back from the Crusades to decorate church plates and robes. and it can be found in Europe in medieval churches, where it adorns many a treasure. An example - one of the shrines in Cologne Cathedral, where one famous large peridot gem adorning the shrine of the Three Holy Kings in the cathedral was for centuries, believed to be an emerald. It was only identified as peridot late in the last century.) Once upon a time, ecclesiastical treasures in European cathedrals included some fine, large peridots, but wars and pillage have dispersed many of them. Peridot was also known to ancient Hebrews and is listed both as one of the stones used by Aaron and found in the text of the apocalypse (Revelations). Several experts believe that the second gemstone in Aaron’s breastplate was a peridot. (The breast plates of Solomon and the High Priest Aaron were said to carry them among them 12 stones to protect them from wounds and death in battle. These 12 stones were credited with the showing of true spiritual teaching by creating miracles of healing performed by the high priests.) During the baroque period, the rich green gemstone once again enjoyed a brief heyday, and then it somehow faded into oblivion.
This beautiful stone is worn or carried for general healing purposes, and is said to bring healing and vitality to the whole body. Peridot increases strength & physical vitality, protects against nervousness and aids in healing hurt feelings. Because of it’s yellowish green color, peridot has been believed to cure diseases of the liver and difficulties with digestion as well as protect lungs, sinuses, and wrists from illness and injury. Ground peridot, taken internally, was once used as a treatment for asthma. As with other gemstones, the color of the peridot stone is directly related to parts of the body that it can be of aid to. It aids in physical detoxification and helps problems with the kidneys, bladder, gall bladder, and the stomach. Peridot heals such illnesses as ulcers, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome. It is also useful in helping to heal insect bites. Peridot has a tonic effect- it heals and regenerates tissues, strengthens the metabolism and benefits the skin. It aids the heart, thymus, and spleen. If placed on the abdomen, it aids in giving birth by strengthening the muscle contractions while lessening the pain. Peridot is also helpful in treating skin diseases and difficulties associated with the adrenal glands and endocrine systems. It is also used to treat fevers. Legends credit peridot strengthening the eyes, and several sources say that in ancient times, cups or other vessels made of peridot were used in healing because medicinal liquids drunk from them were more effective.
Peridot is also very beneficial when it comes to treating psychological afflictions as well. It is a wonderful stone to help someone who is going through depression. It is a stone of lightness that counters the effects of negative emotions. It has the ability to balance the process of emotional release and detoxifies negative emotions, bringing them to comfortable levels. Peridot fosters emotional balance, security, and inner peace. It soothes nervousness, heals emotional and physical pain, and lightens suffering. Because it is calming to the nervous system, peridot is also useful in promoting sleep. Peridot banishes lethargy, which can attack someone who is experiencing depression. The stone’s energy balances bipolar disorders. It also brings about necessary change, which is much needed to someone who is depressed. Peridot also has other psychological effects and uses. It can help one overcome hypochondria. It can greatly improve difficult relationships. It treats phobias, particularly those associated with fears of the dark, becoming like a security blanket to a small child.
It is used to stimulate the heart and solar plexus chakras allowing openness and acceptance in the intellectual pursuit of matters of the heart. (For specific chakra work, because it acts to seal the aura, it is suggested that peridot be removed while working on chakras other than the heart and solar plexus.) Peridot opens, cleanses and activates the heart, which can help one to release old baggage. All burdens, guilt and obsessions become cleared and a new psychological clarity and feeling of well-being begin. Peridot teaches that holding onto the past is counter productive. It shows you how to detach yourself from outside influences and how to look to your own higher energies for guidance. It assists in moving forward rapidly in therapeutic situations. It also helps you understand your destiny and spiritual purpose, helping you attain your full potential. All in all, the stone sharpens the mind and opens it to new levels of awareness.
Throughout history, there have been many legends that state the strong magical power that peridot possesses. Legend says that if the gem is set in gold, it will develop its full potential as a talisman and will have the power to dispel terrors of the night, fears and bad dreams. However, according to Pliny The Elder, the Great Roman authority on such matters, for peridots to work their strongest magic, they must be worn on the right arm. He also wrote that peridot is "dull during daylight hours but will glow like a hot coal by night." Peridot represents wealth and financial success (think of its green hue) and also attracts romance. It has been long considered to be an aid to friendship and supposedly frees the mind of envious thoughts. It is also supposed to protect the wearer from the evil eye and with bringing happiness, good cheer and attract lovers. A piece of peridot upon which was carved an ass was believed to assist a person with a skill or prophesy, and the engraving of a totem of a vulture allowed the stone to have control over various demonic spirits as well as the winds. It assists in finding what is lost, and strengthens ESP abilities, and has been said to make a shield of protection around the body of any wearer. According to folklore, peridot brought power and influence to its owner, as well as bringing good luck, peace, and success. Its powers include health, protection, and sleep. Peridot is said to attract love while also soothing nerves and dispelling negative emotions, and it is believed to promote sleep when worn to bed..  Peridot, further, helps to heal a bruised ego by assisting in the lessening of jealousy, anger, (it will calm a raging anger) and fear, by inspiring happiness with oneself and delight in ones own nature. Peridot is used to help dreams become a reality. The deep green hue of the peridot also suggests a connection in wealth-attracting.
The stone emits a warm and friendly energy and can be used to magnify the inner aspects of any situation. It helps one to understand ones own inner life changes, and helps a person see their own light and recognize that they are deserving of love. It also helps those who feel they have little personal power, as working with the stone, or keeping one with you, will give you that extra boost you might need. If you want to start a growth period, meditate with peridot in your left hand (the receiving one). Visualize the bright color (and the energy that accompanies it) coursing through your chakras, clearing and grounding them. Then see it clearing and grounding your aura. Tell the universe that you are ready for growth, and trust the universe to do the rest. It's ok to then visualize your chakras returning to their normal colors, it is just more intense this way! (The brighter, and more yellow the color, the more intense the experience. This is the stone of adventure. We never know what we will find, but it sure is a heck of a ride!)

Sources:

About.com

Mystical Sculptress

Encyclopedia of Gemstones

Jewels For Me

CrystalsandJewelry

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.