Anti-Aging Treatments For the Over 20s For the Over 30s For the Over 40s For the Over 50s Herbs for Dream Pillows Herbs to Avoid Plants for an Herbal Dream Garden Zodiac Herbs Slippery Elm Cleansing Bath & Ritual How to Dry Herbs Empowering Plants Faery Herbs & Fungi Anti-Aging Treatments Use this treatment every night on the face, if you wish, on the neck and chest, as far as the collar bone. Over 20s Over 30s Over 40s Over 50s Anti-Aging Treatment for the over Twenties: 8 drops Neroli 5 drops lavender 5 drops fennel 3 drops German chamomile 8 drops geranium 1 drop carrot seed Dilute in 30 ml. Hazelnut, almond or apricot kernel oil Anti Aging Treatment for the Over Thirties: 10 drops yarrow 2 drops patchouli 10 drops palmrosa 8 drops clary sage 7 drops fennel 8 drops rose 5 drops carrot seed 5 drops borage seed 5 drops jojoba oil Dilute in 30 ml. Hazelnut or apricot kernel oil Anti-Aging Oil for the Over Forties: 10 drops Neroli 10 drops lavender 10 drops Frankincense 2 drops rosemary 10 drops fennel 3 drops lemon 10 drops carrot seed 10 drops evening primrose Dilute in 30 ml. Hazelnut, almond or apricot kernel oil. Anti Aging Oil for the Over Fifties: 5 drops galbanum 5 drops rose 10 drops neroli 3 drops lavender 2 drops myrrh 10 drops carrot seed 10 drops bois de rose (rosewood) 10 drops evening primrose 10 drops borage seed oil Dilute in 30 ml. Hazelnut or apricot kernel oil Top of Page Herbs for Dream Pillows Herbs to Avoid Plants for an Herbal Dream Garden Herbs to Avoid for Dream Pillows Artemisia (except for mugwort) should be avoided, as many kinds of artemisia can cause frightening dreams and, after waking, headaches. Bay, which sometimes causes headaches upon waking, can also add a gray-brown color and violent quality to dreams. Fixatives are not recommended for use in dream blends. These include cellulose (processed corncobs) and orrisroot. Since they contain some fragrance they may change the texture of the dream blend, making the results unpredictable. Orrisroot can also cause headaches upon waking. Oils of any kind are not recommended. Oils are highly concentrated and can overpower other herbs. Russian tarragon can cause frightening nightmares. Sage can create a haunting feeling in dreams. However, garden sage and clary sage blossoms can be used in small amounts in dream blends. Tansy, which can cause violent and terrifying nightmares, can also produce headaches upon waking. Plants in the Herbal Dream Garden Many types of plants can be used in herbal dream pillows, but here are some of the most common and versatile. Click here to learn about plants in a Faery Garden and here for other uses for herbs. Aniseed (Pimpinella anisum) -- Curtin's Healing Herbs of the Rio Grande suggest that in folklore the fragrance of aniseed keeps men from dreaming, but not women. It's useful in relaxing blends. Balsam Fir (Abies balsamea) -- Fir needles are a pleasant addition to relaxing blends, good in combination with lavender, hops, and roses. They impart an outdoors feeling to dreams. Calendula (Calendula officinalis) -- In folklore it is said that combining sage and calendula blossoms will make dreams come true. Calendula, in small amounts, can add restfulness to a blend, and moderate more spicy ingredients. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) -- This herb has been used for centuries to ease babies' troubled sleep. Today, we use it in adult blends to induce relaxation and sleep. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) -- Chamomile is used for relaxation and pleasant dreams. People who are allergic to ragweed should probably avoid using this herb in their blends, as it sometimes causes similar reactions. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) -- Cinnamon has recently been proved by fragrance researchers to be one of the most erotic aromas for men. Cinnamon comes from the bark of a tropical evergreen tree. Use it sparingly in dream blends for an exotic, romantic texture. Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) -- Cloves add a hint of spiciness, especially when used with roses in romantic mixtures, but use them sparingly. Just 3 or 4 cloves in a blend is plentiful. Hops (Humulus lupulus) -- This herb is actually the flower from a perennial vine and there are several varieties, including some considered "bitter" and others "sweet". Sweet hop flowers are the ones for dreaming; they induce relaxation and peacefulness. Jasmine (Jasmine officinale or J. odoratissimum) -- The delicious fragrance of jasmine will almost encourage dreaming when you're awake! The dried flowers lend an exotic and romantic feeling to dreams, especially for women. Lavender (Lavandula spp.) -- Lavender aids in easing headaches when you are awake, and is useful in relaxing blends alone or in combination with roses and mugwort. Combined with jasmine and roses, lavender adds warmth and familiarity to romantic mixes. Leather -- While it seems an unlikely ingredient, leather is tanned with a product that comes from oak bark. The scent of fresh leather trimming adds excitement and energy to dream blends. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) -- In aromatherapy, lemon balm is used to relieve depression, anxiety, insomnia, and nervous tension. This herb combines well with roses, lavender, thyme, hops and mint. A mix of lemon balm and lavender, in equal parts, is useful in relieving headache and stress. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) -- A native herb of tropical regions, lemongrass adds a bit of color and a soothingly safe, mildly exotic feeling to blends. Lemon Verbena (Aloysia triphylla) -- Native to Chile and Argentina, this shrub produces delightfully aromatic leaves that can add a bit of lightness, even feelings of flying, to the dream blend when used in small amounts. Lilac (Syringa Chinensis) -- Use lilac for sweet, safe, and peaceful dream mixes, in small amounts. It's also good in mixes for the sickroom, and for travelers' blends. In larger amounts, lilac adds sensuality. Marjoram, Sweet (Origanum majorana) -- Sweet marjoram is often used in blends to ease nervousness and restlessness during sleep. I find that this herb adds a dimension of warmth, safety and comfort to dreams. Mimosa Flowers (Acacia dealbata) -- Somewhat like jasmine, only milder, mimosa can add an exotic, more complex feeling to dreams. Mimosa and lemon balm are a good combination for peaceful but slightly colorful dreams. Mint (Mentha spp). -- Just a small amount of mint works like a tuning knob on a television. It adds clarity, vividness, and color to dreams. Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) -- In folklore it is said that this herb causes the dreamer to remember his or her dreams. It does seem to increase clarity, while also encouraging relaxation. Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) -- Used as a mild sedative in herbal medicines, passionflower adds a quieting effect to the dream pillow. Flowers and leaves are both used, but flowers are preferred. Rose (Rosa spp) -- Rose petals create a feeling of loving thoughts and warmth. Used with more exotic herbs in romantic or adventurous mixes, roses keep the feeling of the dream grounded in safety and peacefulness. Rosemary (Rosmarinum officialis) -- In folklore, rosemary was used to ensure sleep and keep away bad dreams. Rosemary works well with a bit of lavender, roses, mugwort, and hops for a relaxing night's sleep without notable dreaming. Thyme (Thymus spp.) -- Herb lore of old claims that sleeping on a pillow of thyme allows the dreamer to see faeries. I generally combine thyme with roses, hops, lavender, and rosemary for a peaceful, quiet dream. Top of Page Zodiac Herbs Aries Taurus Gemini Cancer Leo Virgo Libra Scorpio Sagittarius Capricorn Aquarius Pisces Our lovely planet provides us with many gifts. Stones, crystals, herbs, trees - each one is a container of natural magic, holding a special quality that's perfect to heal whatever ails us. Herbs can be mixed and combined to produce a "recipe" that's just right for each of us. Since the Sun sign you were born under has such an amazing influence on your health and well-being, using the herbs that correspond with that sign alone can be a tremendous help in times of stress or illness. (Editor's note: check with a reliable herb book or herbalist before using herbs.) Here's a short list of herbs that seem to be tailor-made for each of the signs, due to their associations with both the planetary ruler and the positive qualities of that sign. Top of Page Aries - Mars Allspice, basil, cayenne, garlic, ginger, mustard, onion, pepper. It's no secret that Aries is the astrological equivalent of a bullet. It's a red-hot burst of energy that's capable of overcoming any obstacle by charging straight for it. The ruler of Aries is Mars, the "red" planet, the ancient god of war who was known for his equally fiery temperament. No wonder, then, the herbs that correspond with your sign are also a bit "hot" to the taste. Use them in cooking to raise your endorphins, the substance Mars loves best. Top of Page Taurus - Venus Apple, apricot, blackberry, cherry, heather, hibiscus, raspberry, rose. Taurus is the sign that's fondest of the pleasures that life inside these bodies can provide. Whether it's a blazing sunset, a symphony by Mozart, ora delicious meal, you folks are experts at enjoying the physical delights of the senses. It's no surprise that the herbs you'll enjoy most are the sweet ones, since your planet, Venus, is the purveyor of sweetness. Use each of them to satisfy that sweet tooth. Top of Page Gemini - Mercury Clover, eyebright, fennel, lemongrass, lemon verbena, marjoram, parsley. Your quick-witted, fleet-footed energy just loves variety - in fact, the expression "variety is the spice of life" was written with you in mind. Each of these herbs provide a different type of taste, and most can be combined in a light, aromatic tea you can sip on the run. Use clove or slippery elm to protect against gossip and to keep your thoughts and actions grounded. Top of Page Cancer - Moon Aloe, lemon balm, chamomile, mimosa, lavender, lilac. Nurturing is your business, Cancer, and you distribute your soothing touch to one and all. There's nothing you like better than a home that smells good too, whether it's because there's something wonderful simmering on the stove, a vase of fresh flowers on the dining room table, or a warm, fragrant bubble bath waiting for you upstairs. Each of the herbs listed above are known for their ability to calm, heal, or bring a wonderful aroma to the environment. Use aloe to soothe burns and scrapes and chamomile for a wonderful bedtime tea. Top of Page Leo - Sun Chicory, cinnamon, goldenseal, rosemary, St. John's wort, sandalwood. Your planet is the Sun, Leo, the source of life and warmth that keeps us all alive and provides us with the energy we need to keep pursuing our life's quest. It makes perfect sense, then, that the bright, cheerful sunflower would be the perfect representation of your equally bright and happy sign. Herbs like goldenseal and St. John's wort are tailor-made for you, too,since their ability to keep the body resistant to illness and depression are well-known. Mix a bit of chicory with your morning coffee to help remove any obstacles that come up. Top of Page Virgo - Mercury Caraway, dill, eyebright, horehound, lily of the valley, marjoram, savory. Your quick-thinking meticulous sign likes nothing better than a mental challenge, Virgo, whether it's organizing a pile of papers at the office, solving a puzzle, or learning a new skill. The herbs listed above are all well-known for their subtle abilities to strengthen the mind, and many can be mixed together in teas to give you a boost you often need at the end of a long day. The lily of the valley seems perfect for you, too, with itssubtle, "clean" scent and delicate flowers. Top of Page Libra - Venus Catnip, passion flower, persimmon, rose, sugar cane, violet. There's no sign as fond of pleasing others as yours, Libra, whether it's by saying just the right thing to bring warring factions together, or by using your polite charm to draw the object of your desires closer. Of course, catnip is famous for its effects on our feline friends, but its also traditionally used in conjunction with rose petals to bring loving relationships that last forever Since you're ruled by Venus, you're capable of being every bit as sweet as the sugar cane - but if you need a bit of help to attract a beloved, use this potent plant (sugar cane) that's long been used to conjure love - sweetly. Top of Page Scorpio - Pluto/Mars Ginseng, dill, patchouli, pomegranate, saffron, vanilla. As fond as you are of intensity and intimacy, Scorpio, it's no wonder the herbs you'll love best are famous for their use in stirring up passion. Drink ginseng tea (or offer some to your beloved) to induce a magnetic physical attraction. Wear patchouli to arouse lust and silently conjure the magic of the Beltane rituals. Present the object of your desire with a pomegranate, the fruit traditionally associated with seductive Pluto, your ruling planet. Top of Page Sagittarius - Jupiter Anise, clove, fig, hyssop, mugwort, myrtle, nutmeg, rosemary, sage. There's no sign that hangs on to youth with more fervency and determination than yours Sagittarius. To keep that youthful appearance and disposition going as you travel the world in search of yet another experience, drink a tea made of anise, rosemary, and vervain. To aid in making your dreams more prophetic than they already are, use mugwort. Burn clove incense to attract the wealth you'll need to pay for your travels. Top of Page Capricorn - Saturn Comfrey, horsetail, mint, poppy, sassafras, woodruff. You've always been described as a very "focused" sign, Capricorn, intent on self-sufficiency and material success. The influence of your planet, Saturn, gives you the ambition and self-discipline to attain those goals, and to ensure success and prosperity in business matters, too. Each of the herbs mentioned above are known for their ability to attract that success, and most can be mixed together in a tea. Top of Page Aquarius - Uranus/Saturn Anise, bittersweet, citron, dandelion, lemon verbena, rosemary, sage. Your sign is a cerebral one, Aquarius, and your ability to turn "odd" or eccentric ideas into strokes of genius is well-known. Since communication (and mass communication in particular) is your specialty, the herbs above are all associated with the air principle, which rules the intellectual side of life. To increase your already powerful intuition, use citron, clover, or rosemary. Above all else, listen to that intuition. It will seldom prove to be wrong. Top of Page Pisces - Neptune/Jupiter Aloe, bay, cotton, eucalyptus, lavender, Norfolk Island pine, rue. As the most sensitive and psychic of all signs, Pisces, yours is the one that requires help to ward off the adverse thoughts and intentions of others. Since you have no boundaries to keep you separate from others, you also need protection against negative influences. To that end, use rue, a powerful herb known to ward off ills of every kind. To stay positive and healthy keep a lavender plant growing either outside or inside your home. Kim Rogers-Gallagher Llewellyn's Witches' Calendar 2000 Top of Page Slippery Elm Cleansing Bath & Ritual Click here for more magickal baths and here for more rituals. You will need: Slippery Elm - used for protection and purification 2 white candles in holders A tea strainer, muslin bag, or panty hose leg A heat-proof glass bowl Boiling water A Spiritual Bath is different from a bath taken to remove the grime of Daily living. You use no soap or bath oil and you enter the bath already clean. Follow these simple Instructions for a successful Protection Bath: 1. Take a cleansing bath or shower and then clean out the tub. 2. Place the 2 candles in candleholders, where you will walk Between them to enter the tub or shower. 3. Open the packet of Slippery Elm. Pour the Slippery Elm into a Tea strainer, a muslin bag, or the cut-off leg of a pair of panty hose.If you use panty hose, try placing one leg inside the other and cutting them off, so you have two layers of fabric to strain the tea. 4. Fill the bowl with hot water to warm it up. After 2 or 3 Minutes, dump out the water. Place the strainer (filled with Slippery Elm) in the glass bowl and pour boiling water over it. Cover the herbs Entirely with water. Let the herbs steep for 10 minutes, then strain And divide the tea into two portions. One will be for this bath. One can Be put into a jar and refrigerated to save for your next bath or to put In the rinse water of your laundry. 5. Draw a warm bath in the clean bath tub and light your candles. Pour the magical tea into the water. Lock the door so you are not Disturbed. Undress and step between the two candles and into the bath. Lay down so your body is completely covered by the water. Soak for eight Minutes, during which time you should immerse yourself six times. If Your tub is too small for complete immersion, pour water over your head with a clean glass or bowl. During the time you are soaking, visualize Yourself being cleansed completely and all negative energy draining away. Then rub your body from the head down to your feet. 6. When the time is up, fill a cup with some of the used bath water And set it aside. Get out of the tub and wrap yourself in a towel or Robe. You may wrap your head with a towel also. Do not rub. Let the water dry on your body Snuff the candles. They may be used repeatedly For the same type of ritual but not for any other work. 7. Once you are dry, dress in clean clothing. Carry the cup of reserved used bath water to the nearest crossroads and toss the water Toward the east. Walk back home and don't look back. Wrap the used candles and herbs in a clean cloth and dispose of them into running Water or bury them beneath a tree. Top of Page How to Dry Herbs There are 3 different ways to dry herbs for future use, be it cooking or ritual use: The first is to make a drying screen. Take a piece of plastic window screen mesh, and fasten it to a wooden frame, fastening it to the sides of the wood. This leaves room for the air to circulate under the screen, for faster drying, and also prevents the herbs from becoming mouldy. Allow them to dry in a cool, dry place. It doesn't matter if it is warm or cool. The second way is to use silicon gel beads, and putting them in the microwave. This is the fastest method, but also expensive. Silica beads are found in packets in new shoe boxes, inside purses, or can be purchased via mail order. Most stores do not carry them. Times vary, by the type of herb. The third way is by hanging them to dry. This is best with flowers or herbs with longer stems. You can tie them in a bunch and hang them upside down, or just hang them singly on a piece of cord, etc. Stretched across a room. They must be upside down! This method Actually takes the longest. Most flowers require being hung for two weeks. To use the herbs, you must have a mortar & pestle. They must be ground up, and the seeds removed. It takes about 1 hour to grind up the herbs for proper consistency. They must be ground up! If you are using them for cooking, leave them on the stalks until you are ready to use them. Growing and preparing the herbs yourself, makes the magic stronger. You have had a hand in the growing, cutting, and preparation of the herbs, therefore they have a connection to you. Top of Page