How is a Witches Stang Used and Why?

By Isabella @TheWandCarver

Instagram:  @iseabail_witchwriter

If you have visited our Etsy shop, you have probably seen a stang or two being sold there.  Perhaps you wonder a bit about what they are and why they are used.  That is normal because not every witch walks the hedge path – which, by the way, is translated in many different ways I’ve seen from my online travels and many are not correct.

Author and Artisit Unknown 

Firstly, a Hedge witch is often a necromancer, or at least one who practises astral travel for his or her personal reasons.  As explained in a past blog Necromancy – It Isn’t a Dirty Word Anymore, necromancy has nothing to do with literally raising the dead [as in re-animating dead bodies] as it did in the past.  It may have done centuries or so ago, but today’s necromancer is generally happy to only reconnect with his or her ancestors.  I say “reconnect” because the blood of our ancestors runs deep in our veins whether we are hedge witches or not.  If at any time in your life you have felt a burning desire to visit a particular country or feel compelled by a certain culture, or even feel a propensity to live in a different century altogether, you very probably are being asked to do so by a long-ago ancestor of yours.  Some of us are much more sensitive to this than others… why, I do not know.  All I know is, my ancestors have run me through a gamut of interests in my life that often made little sense – until I started visiting them and listening.  Then, about fifteen years ago I began genealogy.  The going was rather slow in the beginning and I could only get to about five generations deep into my past.  Since then, I am now back to 30 AD in one line [the one where I discovered I’m the 28^th great-granddaughter of King Henry I and Queen Matilda of Scotland and my 51st great-grandmother was Queen Boudica of Iceni] – but then, most every one of you are probably related to them and all!  – and there are still lines where I can’t get much deeper than the 14^th great-grandparents.  But there is a point to be made here.  Without going over the top explaining, there were many things I inherently knew without being told.  I always felt them since a very early age.  My parents or grandparents did not tell me these things, I just knew. Still, I had no way of understanding how I knew until I focussed my path into necromancy and hedge witchery and genealogy, which gave me my proof.

upper part of Elm stang ~ photo by i.macy

Now, how do we use a stang and why?  Perhaps more why to start… A stang, is, unlike a wand [although it can be used as a wand] is forked in representation of the Horned God [like, say, Cernunnos or Baphomet].  Many times, a stang is more like a staff, longer than the ones we create for sale and you will often see depictions of them with a candle between the forks or tines.  That is because Hecate assisted Demeter in her search for Persephone, guiding her through the night with flaming torches. Any wood can be used for a stang… many prefer Ash because Yggdrasill was/is Ash.  But I feel for the shorter stangs used for necromancy/Hedge witchery, woods can be chosen to the personal tastes of the witch.  And, because Hecate is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy I try to use a wood which also matches the occasion and resonates with Hecate.  Our newest stang is made from Elm wood which is more than perfect for this reason, however, it is not finished just yet.  “Because Elm’s and Yew’s mythology are twinly bound to Death and the Underworld” is what I wrote in my blog called The Magick of Elm.  Yew would also be a very good wood to create a stang from.  We have also sold a Magnolia stang in the past but sadly, we have no more Magnolia wood.  Sounds a bit lightweight for such a heavy journey, I’m sure you’re thinking. Yes, there is certainly a method to my madness here.  Magnolia is profoundly efficient for spiritual opening.  And, you must be spiritually open to allow yourself to cross over during a hedge walk.  Magnolia is also a stress and fear reliever which can come in handy during a hedge walk.  I added thirteen Howlite skulls because focussing on a piece of Howlite can assist in journeying outside the body and gaining insight from past lives. Then there are four small silver-plated keys as a nod to Hecate and her keys to the four Crossroads.  So, as you can see, your stang is  a tool of protection and help throughout your hedge walks and for various other instances of your necromantic life.

How do you use it?  That is largely up to you and how you feel it best benefits you.  I personally always hold it in my power hand or lay it across my lap if I’m feeling more at ease.  I’ve read that some use it as a director of energy through their soul flight and others place it beneath their knees as they sit.  I’m sure there may be many other ways of using a stang during a hedge walk and if you care to leave yours in comments, we would all love to read them.

Many thanks to all whom wander this way.  Many happy astral travels to all and warmest blessings to all whom this way wander x

Sources

Experience

Necromancy –  It Isn’t a Bad Word Anymore, by Isabella

The Magick of Elm, by Isabella

Crystal of the Week – Howlite, by Isabella

The Magickal Chaste Tree

By Isabella @TheWandCarver

Instagram:  @iseabail_witchwriter

Chaste tree ~ amazon.co.uk

Here is one you don’t think about every day.  The Vitex agnus-castus, or Chaste Tree, is a small shrubby tree from the Mediterranean with distinctive aromatic palmate foliage and elongated inflorescences of fragrant lavender-coloured flowers. It is one of only two species of the genus – the other being Vitex negundo – that can be grown successfully in cool temperate climates, the others all being tropical or subtropical trees.  The Vitex agnus-castus has also been grown in the US since about 1670 after the Great Pilgrim Migration. It seems many tree genus’s which were taken to America in times past have eventually been given new genus names, but the Chaste tree apparently has not been renamed.  The Chaste tree also grows in New Zealand, but its genus is Vitex lucens.

Today we will explore both the magickal and health-related connections of the Chaste tree for our purposes.

Magickal

Chaste flowers tropicalbritain.co.uk

The flowers of the Chaste tree attract bees! If you wish to help Mother Nature replenish our quickly diminishing precious resource, the honeybee, feel free to plant all the Chaste trees you like. No, it isn’t magick, but it is good for environment.

Chaste berries ~ saga.co.uk

Apparently, the reason the Chaste tree got her peculiar name is from the story of the festival of Thesmorphia, in honour of the Goddess Demeter, during ancient times.  During this festival sex was forbidden, therefore Athenian women placed Chaste leaves and branches on their beds to dissuade men from making advances upon them.  Similarly, maidens yet without partners wore the flowers to stay chaste.  Curiously though in today’s times, herbal healers employ the use of the Chaste berries to increase fertility and sex drive!  Funnily enough, the anecdotal findings of the use of the herb supports one in balancing one’s sexuality. So, it would seem it may increase where needed as well as slow down when needed… win, win, I suppose!

The berries can be dried and ground into powder for use in loose incenses for fertility magick and sex magick.

Corresponces

Planet: Pluto

Element: Water

Gender:  Feminine

Powers:  Fertility Magick, Goddess Energy, Protection, Sex Magick

Deity: Ceres, Demeter, Persephone

Sabbat: Mabon and Beltane

Folk Names:  Monk’s Pepper, Chaste Berry, Mu Jing, Cloister Pepper

Health

by purenaturals.co.uk

Chaste tree contains iridoids, flavonoids, progestins, and essential oils. This combination may help control menstrual cycles and ease menstrual pain. It may treat some endocrine problems.

Chaste tree has been used to treat menstrual cycle problems and pain, premenstrual syndrome, and menopause. Chaste tree berries may help stimulate progesterone. This is a female hormone that rises 2 weeks before menstruation. It may help normalise oestrogen and progesterone.

Chaste tree is claimed to help treat painful breasts [mastodynia]. In European herbalism and medicine, vitex extracts are used for uterine fibroid cysts. They help boost breast milk supply in new mothers. The herb has a long history in balancing hormones. It may help lower the sex drive in people who wish to stay chaste.

Side effects, toxicity, and interactions

hyperdrug.co.uk

Chaste tree has no serious side effects. Mild side effects can include nausea, stomach issues, diarrhoea, and itchy rash.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use chaste tree. It isn’t known if chaste tree is safe for children.

This supplement should not be taken by people with hormone-sensitive cancer.

Don’t use chaste tree if you take any medicines, herbs, or other supplements. Check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist first.

Many thanks for reading and warmest blessings to all whom this way wander x

Sources

The Magic of Trees, by Tess Whitehurst

Wikipedia.com

The Magickal Almond Tree

By Isabella @TheWandCarver

Instagram:  @iseabail_witchwriter

What an interesting tree, the Almond! One of my favourite nuts are Almonds along with Walnuts, Brazil nuts, Pistachio nuts…alright, I’ll stop 😊 Admittedly I could go on a lot longer, but we are here for the lovely Almond tree and what it can do for us magickally.

An Ingrid Almond tree growing on the Oxford High Street, UK ~ from Pinterest`

In researching the Almond tree [Prunus dulcis], I learned so much I never knew. Firstly, Almonds grow rather prolifically in the US state of California, but the tree is native to the country of Iran and closely surrounding countries. They are also grown in Australia and Spain.  Sounds to me that wherever it is quite warm most of a year, Almond trees will grow.  That is why you won’t catch many growing in the UK unless they are the Ingrid which is the most reliable Almond variety for the UK climate, and will produce well-flavoured Almonds in late August if you can offer it a sunny sheltered situation. The spring blossom is also very attractive – far more so than most fruiting plums and cherries, to which it is closely related.

Another fact about Almonds is that there is a fatally poisonous Almond called the Bitter Almond which is grown in the wild. It is so highly toxic only a small amount is fatal.  Beware of the wild Almonds wherever you reside.

Ripe Almonds ~ Google Images

The Almond is a deciduous tree, growing 4–10 m [13–33 ft] in height, with a trunk of up to 30 cm [12 in] in diameter.  The flowers are white to pale pink, 3–5 cm [1–2 in] diameter with five petals, produced singly or in pairs and appearing before the leaves in early spring.  If you’re planning on planting an Almond tree, please do, however, be advised your wait will be a long one until your real first harvest as the trees reach full bearing age five to six years after planting. The fruit matures in the autumn, 7–8 months after flowering. And, the almond fruit is 3.5–6 cm [1 3⁄8–2 3⁄8 in] long. In botanical terms, it is not a nut but a drupe.  Still, I shall always call them nuts, as I only learned they are “drupes” as of today.

You may have heard of Almond gum in spell work.  Badam pisim/Almond gum cannot be prepared.  It comes from the tree. Badam/Almond tree bark secretes the gum which dries up on the bark, then one can collect the gum and clear it of any leftover wood bark to be used in many ways.

Magickal

Keep an Almond in your pocket to help you retrieve lost things and it assists in bringing good luck your way.  Almond oil is often used in prosperity spells by rubbing it on the working candle or a few drops in a loose incense being burned for prosperity; Almond leaves and Almonds proper are also used for money magick. Also, Almond oil can be smeared on money to help attract more money.  As a wand or amulet, the wood of the Almond tree aids in self-protection.  Almond wood is also said to be effective in love magick.

Almonds are also essential to beauty as the drupe [nut] is beneficial to our health, however, I came across this spell in my copy of Tess Whitehurst’s book, The Magic of Trees:

Preheat your oven to 350F [in North America], or at around 180c/160 fan/gas mark 4 in UK/Europe. Thought I should add that as she did not. Centre yourself by holding your hands in a prayer pose and calling upon the Goddess [of your beliefs] to bless your magickal workings.  Place three cups of raw, organic Almonds in a medium to large bowl.  Add a tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt and stir in a clockwise direction with a wooden spoon until coated.  As you stir, mentally direct a very bright, pink light through the spoon into the Almonds.  Line a baking tray with aluminium foil or preferably baking parchment and pour the Almonds onto the baking tray, spreading evenly.  Hold open your palms over the Almonds and direct the energy of your words into them as you chant three times:

Goddess of love, Goddess of light

Bless me with your beauty bright

Bake for ten to twelve minutes or until they are a rich, dark brown.  Let cool, then store in a large glass container with sealing lid. Every morning until they’re gone, have one quarter to one third cup Almonds with or for breakfast until they’re gone.  Repeat as desired… or as needed 😊 I would need to eat them forever!

Correspondences

Planet: Jupiter [I have also seen some saying Mercury]

Element: Air

Gender:  Feminine [some say Masculine]

Powers:  Beauty, Clairvoyance, Divination, Fertility, Goddess Energy, Healing, Prosperity, Protection, Wisdom

Deity: Attis, Mercury, Thoth, Hermes

Sabbat: Beltane

Folk Names: None, really

Health

Badam pisim otherwise known as Almond gum has great cooling properties.  In very hot places such as India, where my mother’s very far back ancestors came from, Badam pisim is added to water or any drink to help cool one’s system on a 40c day.  It helps calm the stomach burns, treats ulcers and reduces the burning sensation in the stomach. It is also known for its cholesterol lowering properties.

Health benefits of the Almond nut/drupe:

Almonds ~ BBC Good Food

Almonds are high in phytic acid, a substance that binds certain minerals and prevents them from being absorbed. Whilst phytic acid is generally considered a healthy antioxidant, it also slightly reduces the amount of iron, zinc and calcium you get from Almonds. They are among the world’s best sources of vitamin E, so good in fact, you can eat these daily and probably no longer need E supplements. Almonds can assist with blood sugar control.  If you are hypoglycaemic or have diabetes, sometimes the blood sugar gets a bit out of whack.  People without diabetes also see major reductions in insulin resistance when supplementing with magnesium. Always keep a container of Almonds [non-sugared!] with you .  They are very high in magnesium therefore you could possibly save money from buying that supplement.  Almonds can lower your cholesterol levels particularly the LDL or bad cholesterol.

Lastly, Almonds can help you in weight loss.  Due to their satiating properties, Almonds [and Walnuts] are a great addition to an effective weight loss diet.  And, they are high in fibre and protein and low in bad carbs. Win-win!

Many thanks for reading and warmest blessings to all whom this way wander x

Sources

The Magic of Trees, by Tess Whitehurst

Wikipedia.com

The Magickal Acacia Tree

By Isabella @TheWandCarver

Instagram:  @iseabail_witchwriter

Are you ready to climb trees with me again? I am on a journey to write about trees we often don’t have where I live or… possibly we do, and I simply haven’t paid them any mind until now.  I can’t say I’ll be expert at writing on subjects I have not worked with personally, but I feel I can at the least pull together into one blog all the useful information you need to work magick with if you do have access to these.  And now, on the very magickal Acacia tree!

Folklore

African Acacia tree ~ Google images

Acacia is steeped in lore, particularly from the Egyptians.  The ancient Egyptians made funeral wreathes of Acacia leaves and the Hebrews planted a sprig of evergreen Acacia to mark the grave of a departed friend. Acacia is also revered by the Egyptian gods and goddesses as it is believed the very first gods were born beneath its branches in Heliopolis. The stern of the celestial boat of Ra was made of Acacia wood and it was sacred to the Goddess Isis.

The ancient Egyptians used the Nile Acacia for enlightenment and talking to the gods. Their spiritual guide was not Hathor or Isis, but Osiris. Osiris was the first god to be born from under the Acacia tree, in their beliefs, and all else followed. The legend remains today that the spirit of Osiris is in every Acacia tree on the Nile…nee, all Acacia trees.

Magickal

If you wish to become a spiritual leader, it is believed you should fashion a wand from Acacia wood for it is thought to increase your integrity, authority, and confidence if you so charge it to be; all of which you will need to have to fulfil this role.

You can use Acacia leaves dipped in your homemade holy water to sprinkle your altar or any other items you wish to consecrate.

Gum Arabic ~ photo from Amazon.com

If you wish to communicate with the dead, Acacia leaves burned in a loose incense on a charcoal is effective. This is also an effective way to induce spiritual phenomena and develop personal psychic power by opening your mind; adding Frankincense and Myrrh can be used to intensify the effect.  Acacia leaves are especially powerful when attempting to contact the dead and should be rubbed into white candles but not worn on the body while attempting such work. Acacia symbolises the afterlife.

Acacia is used in spells related to protection and psychic power and the dried gum [gum Arabic from Acacia senegal] is used as a base for many incenses, as well as . Combine with sandalwood to make an incense to aid in meditation. The leaves may also be burned on charcoal to increase personal power and the resin is how most of us use it mixed with loose herbs and woods on a charcoal.

If you are fortunate enough to have an Acacia tree growing near, it is an effective way to have your petitions heard by your god[s] and/or goddess[es].  Many years ago, the famed Charles Darwin came upon an Acacia tree in Patagonia where the village people revered it as a Divine altar.  They would leave offerings beneath it along with their requests.  Perhaps you can find a way to create your own Acacia altar.

Health

Apparently, Acacia is available in supermarkets.  To be fair, I have never gone in search for it to use as a health aid or a food enhancer.  However, Acacia has apparently been used in medicine for a great number of years and I assume, if you know how to use it correctly, it is of great benefit.  However, as always, please see your general practitioner before embarking on any home health remedy. And I do not mean Dr Google.

Acacia is often used in topical treatments to help wounds heal. Doctors, scientists, and researchers believe that this effect may be due to some of its chemicals, such as alkaloids, glycosides, and flavonoids. In one study, a species of acacia known as Acacia caesia was tested on rats as part of a topical wound treatment. It led to quicker wound healing than the standard treatment.

The extract of a species of acacia known as Acacia catechu, sometimes called black khair, can be used in dental products like mouthwash to prevent gingivitis. Powdered Acacia can also be used in a type of herbal toothpaste that’s been shown to clean teeth without being too abrasive to the surface of your teeth. An older study, Trusted Source from 1999 showed that this herbal tooth powder cleaned and cleared well over two-thirds of tooth plaque, and nearly 100 percent in some cases.

Acacia gum contains water-soluble dietary fibres [WSDF] that are not only good fibre for your diet but also helpful in keeping your cholesterol under control. One study showed that taking 15 grams of Acacia gum in liquid form every day helped manage the concentration of plasma cholesterols in blood. Although published in 1992, this is the most comprehensive study on the effects of Acacia gum on the blood to date. WSDF can also help you maintain a healthy weight and is good for general cardiovascular health. The American Food and Drug Administration [FDA] even made changes to regulations to recognise the beneficial use of Acacia as a good fibre source in many popular foods, including cereals, juice, and yoghurt.

Because it’s known to relieve irritation and inflammation, Acacia gum can also help control coughs. The properties of Acacia gum allow it to be used in solutions to coat your throat and protect the mucus in your throat from irritation. Using Acacia for coughs can keep your throat from becoming sore as well as ease or prevent symptoms, including losing your voice. I don’t think I trust sucking on the tiny gum Arabic resins I burn in my censor…

The Acacia greggii plant, found in the United States and Mexico, can be used to help stop blood flow in gashes, wounds, and other surface cuts. Pouring an Acacia-infused tea on cuts is an especially effective remedy. This can be helpful for stopping heavy bleeding and washing bacteria from the cut.

Potential risks

Ask your doctor before consuming any form of Acacia to make sure you won’t have an allergic or drug interaction reaction. Acacia senegal has been found to interact with the efficacy of some medications. For example, it may prevent some antibiotics from being absorbed.

Some forms of Acacia contain toxic chemicals that could cause hair loss, affect your digestive tract’s ability to take in nutrients, and stunt growth. Do not consume a form of Acacia that you’re not familiar with. Also be sure to consult your doctor or an expert before taking any form of Acacia that hasn’t been processed for use in food.

Acacia is often found already processed in foods, but it’s also available in ground, powder, or whole form at your supermarket. The studies above show that anywhere from 15 to 30 grams of Acacia per day is a safe dose but talk to your doctor before giving it to younger children or older adults. They may suggest adjusting dosage to avoid any potential digestive or absorption issues.

Corresponces

Planet: Sun

Element: Air, Spirit

Gender:  Masculine

Powers: Fidelity, Immortality, Psychic Abilities, Protection

Deity: Osiris, Astarte, Ra, Zeus, Isis and Diana

Sabbat: Litha

Folk Names: Cassie Flower, Catechu, Egyptian Thorn, Gum Arabic, Cape Gum

I hope you enjoy the new tree series.  Many thanks for reading and warmest blessings to all whom this way wander x

Sources

The Magic of Trees, by Tess Whitehurst

Healthline.com

The Magickal Cinnamon Tree

By Isabella @TheWandCarver

Instagram:  @iseabail_witchwriter

Do Cinnamon trees grow in the UK? Yes!  But to my knowledge, not just anywhere but in Birmingham, West Mids at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, they do. The Cinnamon tree [Cinnamomum verum – which translates to “true Cinnamon”] is native to Sri Lanka, however, in 2016, Indonesia and China produced 75% of the world’s supply of cinnamon. The aromatic spice was once one of the most expensive spices to procure in western countries.  Nowadays you can get a small jar of it for under a pound in some shops. 

Cinnamon Trees by beautifulnow.is

Many people love a sprinkle of Cinnamon over their porridge or toast of a morning. Of course, there are also many kinds of drinks, hot or cold, alcohol based or plain, which benefit from the flavour of a bit of Cinnamon.  And it is used in many kinds of curries and other favourite Indian and Middle Eastern foods we all enjoy. And that Cinnamon stick everyone enjoys in a hot Christmas / Yuletide toddy is the bark of the Cinnamon tree! 

According to the website for Birmingham Botanical Gardens:

“To make cinnamon sticks or “quills” the stems have to processed soon after harvesting whilst the stems are still wet. Again, the outer bark is removed, then the stems is hammered evenly to loosen the inner bark, which can be separated into 1 metre long rolls, 0.5mm thick. These are dried in a well ventilated, warm area for 4 to 6 hours before being cut into 5 to 10 cm lengths for sale. The cultivated trees are coppiced or cut back to the ground to encourage new stems. This is done on a two-year cycle so that only two-year-old stems are used. Cinnamon can be used to flavour cakes, biscuits, and other deserts as well as curries, stews, soups, meats and pickles. It is also used in drinks like teas and mulled wine for Christmas.”

At first I had thought of writing about Cinnamon the spice in a Wortcunner’s Cabinet blog, however, the more I thought on it, it seems that is what everyone does, and in most instances leaving out the tree altogether.  We would not have the spice if not for the tree, therefore, the tree itself needs some attention.

So, what makes it magickal?

Magick

Burning the wood or the bark in an incense will bring about high vibrations and it is also a good ingredient to use to stimulate your psychic powers.  It is excellent in loose incense for money drawing purposes.  Carry a stick of Cinnamon bark with a piece of paper and an amount you need in your currency written on a piece of paper wrapped round it and then wrap a low denomination bank note around that and tie a piece of string round to hold it all together.  Keep this in your coin purse, wallet, or anywhere you keep money until you receive the money you need. [You can also do this with a piece of Cedar wood].  Cinnamon bark, wood, spice, or oil are all excellent to use for empowering yourself with healing, love, protection, psychic powers, and success.  They can be used in sachets, spell bags, incenses, and infusions.  I have read of some people anointing their currency with Cinnamon oil with great success. 

Correspondences

Planet:  Sun

Zodiac:  Leo

Gender:  Masculine

Element:  Fire

Powers:  Healing, Love, Lust, Protection, Power, Psychic Power, Spirituality, Success, Wealth

Sabbat[s]:  Imbolc, Litha, Yule

Deity:  Egyptian: Ra, Sekhmet, Greek: Hephaestus, Hestia, Hindu: Agneya, Agni, Celtic: Aed, Brigit, Norse: Glöð, Logi, Roman: Vesta, Vulcan,

Other Names:  Sweet Wood,

Health

In my home growing up, if you had a toothache [as too many did in those days!], if pure Clove oil weren’t around and you had some pure Cinnamon oil available, it would work nearly as well.  However, pure Cinnamon oil should not be used topically on one’s skin.  Generally speaking, I believe it would just be best to drink your Cinnamon and leave the oils to add to loose incenses or smearing on your bank notes. 

Cinnamon is proven to relieve upset tummies, however, if you are pregnant, it is best not to imbibe Cinnamon at all. Otherwise, Cinnamon tea after a meal is said to regulate your blood sugar and aid in digestion.  Cinnamon is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.  It has shown hopeful signs in helping Diabetics by dramatically reducing insulin resistances well as those with heart disease by lowering high blood pressure.  There are studies in effect presently which are looking to prove that Cinnamon may have beneficial effects on neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

And Cinnamon is also being looked into as a possible candidate for slowing the growth of some cancers, and HIV. 

For a Bit of Fun!

I try not to be very “sell-y” in my blogs, although I do write the occasional blog flogging our wares.  As many of you know, my daughters and I make witchcraft supplies which we sell online but we also make a range of rustic Yule decorations as well. And, as several items are made from Cinnamon wood as well as Cinnamon bark, I would like to share them at this time, if anyone is interested.  You can click here to visit and see all the items we have to offer. Thank you for the indulgence 🙂

Many thanks for reading and warmest blessings to all whom this way wander x

Sources

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Wikapedia.com

The Encyclopaedia of Magical Herbs by Scott Cunningham

The Magickal Buckthorn Tree

By Isabella @TheWandCarver

Instagram:  @iseabail_witchwriter

One of the first questions which pop up under ‘People also ask’ if you Google Buckthorn Tree is “Is Buckthorn good for anything?” .  Really? I felt quite indignant! Aren’t all trees good for something, if not multiple things? Maybe having a Druid father makes me feel indignant over that question, however, should you be one of those who might ask this, let me very patiently explain just what the Buckthorn tree is good for… and hopefully the people who do ask that question routinely will find satisfying answers here 😊

Buckthorn flowers ~ woodlandtrust.org.uk

The Buckthorn [Rhamnus cathartica] tree is native to countries from the central British Isles south to Morocco, and east to Kyrgyzstan.  It is also native to Europe, northwest Africa and western Asia.  Mature trees can grow to a height of 10m, with grey-brown bark and spiny branches. The leaf buds are conical and black brown in colour, and form on long stalks. Buckthorn is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are found on different trees. Flowers are yellow green with four petals and are pollinated by insects.  It is similar to alder buckthorn [Frangula alnus] but purging Buckthorn has opposite leaves and Alder Buckthorn has alternate leaves.

Purging Buckthorn is the main food plant of the brimstone butterfly whose caterpillars eat the leaves. Its flowers provide a source of pollen and nectar for bees and other insects, while its dense growth makes it a valuable nesting site for birds. So, yes, it is good for something, our Buckthorn!

Buckthorn berries ~ woodlandtrust.org.uk

However, in many places it seems to take over wherever it lives.  Not only in the UK but mostly in the US where the common Buckthorn lives [brought over by the English back during the Great Pilgrim Migration]  is a bit of a nuisance.  Whilst birds [and sometimes mice] do eat Buckthorn berries, it’s often because it’s the only available seed source. But Buckthorn berries are not a good food source for small birds. They’re low in protein and high in carbohydrates and produce a severe laxative effect in some animals. For smaller birds, the laxative effect can even be strong enough to result in death. Adding insult to injury, the excreting birds also end up distributing the Buckthorn seeds over long distances. And, that means more Buckthorn.

Now you might see why it is called “purging Buckthorn” sometimes…

Let us talk about magickal uses now!

Magickal

Tess Whitehurst, in her book The Magic of Trees, calls the Buckthorn “a Taurus with an Aries rising” because it is a tree which is stubborn enough to see anything through.  Sometimes, in magick, we really need that kind of tenacity!

Buckthorn seedling ~ Treegrowers.co.uk 

It is said that if you wish to de-hoard your home but can’t get the energy up to do so, place a 50p coin [or a 50 cent piece in the US or anywhere else which uses 50 cent coins] at the base of a Buckthorn tree.  Then, ask permission of the Buckthorn tree to snip a branch from it, doing so with love.  Use this branch to purify the air in your home before starting the task of decluttering, moving through each room using an anti-clockwise sweeping motion. When finished, give the branch back to the earth by laying it on the ground.  Start small… clear out one small space, such as a cupboard.  Continue choosing one small space to clear as you feel more up to it until you have de-hoarded every place in your home. And, if it works as well as I think it should, you might well be motivated to clear your home much sooner than you first imagine!

Buckthorn is likewise a good ally in beginning any kind of endeavour, whether a new business, new job, or anything in which you feel you need extra “sticktoitness”.  I would suggest doing the same ritual as above, only “sweeping” yourself with the branch.  I would also snip off a small piece of the Buckthorn branch and use it as a talisman to help you keep motivated but still leave the largest piece of the branch to the earth outdoors as described above.

If beginning any kind of new project, whether for work or school, visit a Buckthorn tree at noon.  Empower a crystal [one which has powers of success is best, such as Citrine] with your intention, holding it in bright sunlight if possible.  Imagine yourself feeling joyful and successful in embarking upon this project, working faithfully until complete.  Imagine your success and the honours it might bestow, and your satisfaction of a job well done.  Empower the crystal with all the confident feelings you have and when you feel this is complete, bury the crystal at the base of the Buckthorn, then pour an entire bottle of red wine around the tree’s roots.  Yes, you can use a cheap bottle 😊

According to Dioscorides, placing branches of Buckthorn around doors and windows drives away all evil sorceries committed toward you.

According to Scott Cunningham, it is wise to carry a piece of Buckthorn with you to all  court and legal matters and as a general good luck generator.

Correspondences

Planetary:  Saturn [Mars, according to Whitehurst]

Zodiac:  Sagittarius

Gender:  Feminine [Masculine, according to Whitehurst]

Element[s]:  Water [Earth, according to Whitehurst]

Powers:  Protection, Exorcism, Wishes, Success, Legal Matters, Strength, Tenacity

Deity:  Ran,  of the Vanir

Other Names: Purging Buckthorn, Common Buckthorn

Healing

Sadly, my go-to for all things herbal/tree/spice related information, Nicholas Culpeper, has no writings of Buckthorn so no words of wisdom from him.  However, I think you may have gotten the idea above that Buckthorn is an effective laxative.

Word of Caution: If you suffer from a bleeding disorder, Buckthorn berry can be dangerous, as it slows down blood clotting. Also, if you already are taking blood pressure medication or suffer from hypotension, this berry might not be a great choice. As always, you should speak with a medical professional before making any major changes to your diet.

That said, the berries of the Buckthorn are thought to be a preventative to many diseases and problems such as aging, anti-cancer, cholesterol, circulation, diabetes control, heart health, stomach problems, vision health and a vitamin C boost.

But please, do not just pluck the berries off from a tree and start eating them.  In a case like this, once you have a thumb’s up from your GP, order a proper supplement from a reputable vitamins and supplements dealer.

Many thanks for reading and warmest blessings to all whom this way wander x

Sources

Encyclopaedia of Magical Herbs, by Scott Cunningham

The Magic of Trees, by Tess Whitehurst

Woodlandtrust.org.uk

The Magickal Dragon Blood Tree

By Isabella @TheWandCarver

Instagram:  @iseabail_witchwriter

The Dragon Blood tree is a very other-worldly looking tree, kind of like the Baobab tree or the Bodhi tree which all remind me of the kind of trees you might find back during the time dinosaurs roamed the earth. And so, they probably did.  This is a tree I adore for the fact that it produces, what many of us use in our practises, the wonderfully scented Dragon’s Blood resin. It is one of my favourites. 

Photo by Ken’s Nursery

Dracaena cinnabari, the Socotra Dragon tree, or Dragon Blood tree, is a Dragon tree native to the Socotra archipelago, part of Yemen, located in the Arabian Sea.  There is a similar tree, the  Dracaena draco, which is found in the Canary Islands and found in nearby islands as well as  western Morocco.  It also produces the Dragon’s Blood resin but in early years was never  the main producer of the resin we all know and love until the cinnabari became threatened.  However, this has changed, as well. As of some time, both are endangered, sadly.

Both Dracaena cinnabari and Dracaena draco trees are quite slow growers.  It can take over 10 years for the former to reach one metre in height whilst the latter is not much faster.  They are now both called threatened species, meaning no more “real” Dragon’s Blood resin. It does not help that we have Global Heating [Climate Change] increasing arid environments and is predicted to cause a 45 percent reduction in the available habitat for Dracaena cinnabari  by the year 2080. What we are buying these days is most likely  from the Daemonorops draco.  You are not likely to find much in the way of real resin from this plant, however, the incenses produced from it are quite heavenly.  But I’m not fussed.  This plant is helping to stem the virtual demise of the Dracaena cinnabari and draco trees.  As they are endangered I would certainly rather “make do” with something else than to know both trees are no longer in this world.

So, purists as we may be with what we use, please, be happy with what we can have. And that is Daemonoprops draco for which our magickal correspondences will be given for.

Magickal

Dragon’s Blood, as we shall refer to it as from herein, is used with incredibly good results in protection magick.  Make a sachet with a clove of garlic and Dragon’s Blood and carry it with you, especially if your travels cause worry about your personal safety. Burning the incense regularly builds a protection aura in your home and I always like to burn it after a good cleansing incense of Frankincense – to get all the mucky puppies out first. 

Dragon’s Blood is also well-suited to love spell work. Mind, you musn’t do any kind of spell which will infringe upon anybody’s free will.

Bring back an estranged partner by burning Dragon’s Blood incense. Be sure to only do this with the intention that it is asked for by their true will.

It can also be used for clearing, cleansing, and hex breaking.  Use Dragon’s Blood incense for cleaning the ritual circle before a spell. Use the smoke of the incense to pass over yourself or someone else to break a hex.

And, if you can buy yourself any of the Dracaena’s to keep in your home or on your property, you will be well protected, indeed!

Correspondences

Planet:  Mars

Gender:  Male [Tess Whitehurst says Female, but the consensus of most is Male]

Zodiac:  Aries, Sagittarius

Element:  Spirit

Powers:  Manifestation, Intention, Protection, Love Drawing, Money Attraction, Healing Rituals, Emotional Strength, Heightening Ritual Energy, Banishing, Love, Protection, Healing, Increased Potency, Honouring the Gods, Goddesses, Spirits or Ancestors,

Deity:  Ra, Sekhmet, Wadjet, Bridgid, Grannus, Aed, Hephaestus, Helios, Apollo, Agni, Mātariśvan, Ilā,

Sabbat[s]:  Imbolc and Beltane

Other Names:  Demon Cane [Daemonoprops draco]

Health

Dragon’s Blood has been used over time as an anti-diarrhoeal, anti-inflammatory, and for ulcers – the topical kind such as bed sores, not the internal kind as in your stomach.  Some suggest it is useful in preventing cancer as well as fending off viruses and bacteria in the body.  I would not know, if I’m honest.  I have never tried Dragon’s Blood for any health reasons.

The problem here is, the only studies I have found as of now are from 2011 and 2013.  Much of that information by now, over seven years later, are most likely proved or disproved but I would not know.  Therefore, please do more research before giving any of it a go. 

Many thanks for reading and warmest blessings to all whom this way wander. X

Sources

Experience

The Magic of Trees, by Tess Whitehurst

Wikipedia

A Beginner’s Understanding of Ogham Divination, Part Twenty

By Isabella @TheWandCarver

Instagram:  @iseabail_witchwriter

Ogham Ioho or Idad ~ photo by i.macy

Very fitting that the last Ogham tree in the series is Yew, for it is most associated with beginnings and endings, rebirth and reincarnation.  It is the Ogham called Ioho, Idad, or Iodho and if you want to know more about Yew, you can read my previous blog, The Magick of Yew. I will tell you that the Ogham Ioho is not a birth tree Ogham, but it is the Ogham for the Winter Solstice.  The Yew is the the tree most associated with the Crone aspect of the Triple Goddess… her time is near but as the Yew dies on the outside to bring in new life from the inside, so the Crone will die but become new again in her regeneration or reincarnation.  And, the cycle goes on and on…

Representations:  Ancestry,  Change, Communication [with the dead], Death, Divinity, Flexibility, Immortality, Longevity, Rebirth, and Strength

Ogham: Letter:  I

Number:  20

Colour:  Dark Green, Very White

Tarot:  See Below

Animals:  Deer, Eagle, Hummingbird

Plant:  Juniper

Divination Meaning:  When drawing a single Ioho / Idad stave you must ask yourself, “How does my past make me whom I am today?  How do I understand my past to decide whom I become?”  It is a call to explore not only your recent past [as in this life’s past] but can also mean it is time to look into your past lives. It can also mean it is time to speak with your family elders; it can also mean for you to speak with those whom have passed on to the Otherworld.  I say “speak to” when I really mean to seek them out.  For you to appropriately answer the questions above you must listen to those from the past.  There is so much wisdom you can gather from this that it would be rude not to.

How to Mend the Problem:  Changes are coming to you. Let go and experience the changes knowing they are not an enemy to you.  Accepting that nothing lasts forever can ease your mind if you allow it to.  You, nor I, are special enough to prevent endings.  Everyone experiences these. And we must understand that endings are not always bad things.  Like the Yew, we peel away the outside to allow the inside to flourish.

With the chthonic current we see the bond between generations. Oral traditions, folk lore, the study of lore – these are most important at this time. Transmission of tradition and the sharing of lore manifests with this current.  If other influences support the reading, there may be reference to past lives or reincarnation.  The celestial current speaks of memory and history and the things these give us. This current can refer to the ancestors generally; perhaps even specific ancestors. But always in reference to ancestors in the Otherworld, not those Elders whom are still living.  This Ogham challenges us to look at our past[s] and to determine our future. You must go about this as best you can by knowing yourself now and in past-lives, should it come to this. Speaking with those in the Otherworld is a course you must try to take as well.  Some may wish to access their Akashic records. Meditation upon your own life is a way forward as well. Your ultimate goal will be to lay foundations of wisdom for generations to come after you.  It is a very serious task.

A card from the Tarot of Reincarnation 

Apart from the Death card, which has been paired with Ur [Heather], I do not have a single tarot card recommendation, however, something that may assist you in accessing your past lives is a special tarot deck called Tarot of Reincarnation [English and Spanish Edition] by Lo Scarabeo. This concludes our foray into the world of Ogham divination.  I hope you have enjoyed it and have learned much. Do always keep in mind that there are other interpretations out there in the world and this is only mine based on things I have studied.  As your “graduation present”, I have listed more *sources that may benefit [or confuse!] you.  You can adhere to one way or another… you can borrow from one and borrow from another to combine your way.  Just do keep in mind that it is your intuition which will best serve you as it will help you choose the right meaning for your reading or a reading for someone else.

You can catch up the first nineteen blogs, Part One, Part Two, Part Three, Part Four, Part Five, Part Six, Part Seven, Part Eight, Part Nine, Part Ten, Part Eleven, Part Twelve, Part Thirteen, Part Fourteen, Part Fifteen, Part Sixteen, Part Seventeen, Part Eighteen, and Part Nineteen by clicking on these respectively.  Feel free to print them out for your BOS or just to have on hand for help.

Many thanks for reading my blog and warmest blessings to those whom this way wander x

Sources

*Ogam,The Celtic Oracle of the Trees, by Paul Rhys Mountfort

*Ogam, Weaving Word Wisdom, by Erynn Rowan Laurie

The Celtic Tree Oracle, by Liz and Colin Murray

What’s Your Birth Tree is the New What’s Your Star Sign, by Isabella

A Beginner’s Understanding of Ogham Divination, Part Nineteen

By Isabella @TheWandCarver

Instagram:  @iseabail_witchwriter

Ogham Eadha ~ Photo by i.macy

Eadha or Edad is the Ogham of enlightenment.  The Aspen or White Poplar tree is the wood it represents in the Ogham alphabet.  It is also associated with divination, dreaming, and the altered states of consciousness in which communication with the spirits and ancestors occurs.  It is very much a useful Ogham for the hedge witch to be used as a seal during a hedge ride.  The Aspen tree is not a birth tree Ogham wood, nor is Eadha a birth tree Ogham.  It is, however, the Ogham for the Autumn Equinox.  Rather fitting, isn’t it?

Representations:  Ancestry, Astral Projection, Communication, Courage, Discernment, Divination, Dreams, Enlightenment, Relationships [with Spirit], Vision Seeking

Ogham Letter:  E

Number:  19

Colour:  Red Speckled

Tarot:  The Hermit

Animals:  Swan

Plant:  Yew tree

Divination Meaning:  You must ask of yourself:  How do I see the world? What gifts do my insights bring?  I suppose if ever there was a time to question your intuitiveness it would be now. In divination, Eadha asks you to examine the tools you use to access Otherworldly wisdom.  The Ancient Ones often used mind-altering herbs and plants for trips to the other side.  They learnt through trial and error how much was enough and not too much.  Not to say anyone uses mind-alteration via herbs and plants but I think the question is more to the point of “Am I using the correct tools in my practise to reach Divinity, ancestry, and any other Otherworldly Ones?” And, of course, those tools could include mind-altering herbs and plants.

How to Mend the Problem:  Careful discrimination between illusion and reality is suggested.  It can also refer to the tools of your divination work, or the “vehicles” used in your journeying work and whether they are physical, psychological, or spiritual… or all of the above and this is the meaning of the chthonic current… the oceanic current cautions about the dangers of visionary work:  addiction, illusion, and intoxication. Celestial current suggests the possibility of enlightenment through the applied practise of vision seeking and dream incubation.  In a nutshell, you must – through your intuitiveness and careful work with Divinity, find your answer to the questions above and judge whether you are risking too much and find a way to balance in all things.

Shadowscapes The Hermit  ~ photo by i.macy

The Hermit is the major arcana tarot card which best explains Eadha’s meaning.  The Hermit is a card of soul-searching, introspection, being alone, and inner guidance.  The Hermit carries a lantern or some type of light source in any type of deck.  It shows that you are taking a break from everyday life to draw your energy and attention inward and find the answers you seek, deep within your soul. You realise that your most profound sense of truth and knowledge is within yourself and not in the distractions of the outside world. You leave behind the mundane to set off on a journey of self-discovery, led only by your inner wisdom and guiding light. If you have the time, it is a perfect time to go on a pilgrimage of sorts alone.  When you allow yourself to tune in to your inner, guiding light, you will hear the answers you need and grow wise beyond your years. Find your light, shine it on your soul and create your unique path. You will see what lies ahead of you; from there, take one step at a time.

You can catch up the first eighteen blogs, Part One, Part Two, Part Three, Part Four, Part Five, Part Six, Part Seven, Part Eight, Part Nine, Part Ten, Part Eleven, Part Twelve, Part Thirteen, Part Fourteen, Part Fifteen, Part Sixteen, Part Seventeen, and Part Eighteen by clicking on these respectively.

Many thanks for reading my blog and warmest blessings to those whom this way wander x

Sources

The Celtic Tree Oracle, by Liz and Colin Murray

What’s Your Birth Tree is the New What’s Your Star Sign, by Isabella

The Magickal Boswellia Tree, or The Frankincense Tree

By Isabella @TheWandCarver

Instagram:  @iseabail_witchwriter

Boswellia Tree ~ unknown photographer

Ah, the Boswellia sacra tree!  The sap of this tree is the most used resin in all of history for purification, protection, consecration, and healing.  It is most prevalent in northern Somalia and the Dhofar mountain range in Oman.  Boswellia serrata also produces frankincense and is native to much of India and the Punjab region that extends into Pakistan. The Boswellia Sacra tree is rather small as trees go and it grows to a height of  about 2 to 8 metres or 6 to 26 feet.  The most famous product of either Boswellia tree is its resin… it is what we have come to know as Frankincense.

We learn about Frankincense from a very early age.  As children, many of us were brought up in Christian households, but not relegated to being Christian; practically every religion has heard the story of the Three Wise Men visiting the Christ child and the gifts they brought to honour him, one of which was Frankincense. Frankincense was used long before Christianity as incense and oil for consecration, purification, and protection of sacred spaces and people. The Catholic religion was, as far as I know, the first Christianity-based religion to use Frankincense.  The Church of England used incense throughout its history, until the mid-1600s, when it fell into disuse generally and subsequently became illegal. From that time, though, it continued to be used in worship in isolated instances, such as in York Minster, and since the mid-19th century its use has spread and increased. It forms a normal part of ACC liturgy and worship.  Jewish rabbis use consecrated frankincense in ritual, particularly in the ceremony of Ketoret.

Our cherished Frankincense supply could be in decline over the next years.  Read more in this article by the BBC.

Magickal

For most of you reading today, I would be hard placed to give you any new information about Frankincense in magick.  You already are familiar with using the resin along with tree bark and herbs for different spells.  You already know the oil is fabulous for protection.  And, you most likely burn Frankincense joss sticks for purification of your home or any sacred space.  I’m particularly pleased that I can still burn Frankincense for as I’ve grown older my olfactory sense has become very sensitive to Dragon’s Blood, which I adore.  Now, I can regularly burn Frankincense as it is gentle on my poor nose.

But Frankincense does not need to be burned to be effective.  It is one of the nine herbs, flowers, resins, and woods we use in our Protection Witch Bottles and Necromancer’s Witch Bottles.  It is believed that carrying a piece of Frankincense is protective.  It can be held in a small bowl on your altar as an offering to your favourite Sun God or Goddess.  You can anoint yourself or another with the oil for protection as well as anoint your altar or witch tools.  I would be interested to learn of your uses for the resin or the oil. Please use the comments section below.

Correspondences

Planet:  Sun

Gender:  Male

Element:  Fire

Powers:  Consecration, Healing, Protection, Purification, Spirituality

Deity:  Ra, Apollonius, Hephaestus, Venus, Sol [Helios], Buddha, Brahma, Vishnu, Siva [Hindu]

Sabbat:  Yule

Other Names:  Dhoop [Sanskrit], Frankincense tree,  Olibanum-tree, Olibanus, Olibans, Luban, Mohor, Beyo, Maid

Health

Resin made from Boswellia extract has been used for centuries in Asian and African folk medicine. It’s believed to treat chronic inflammatory illnesses as well as several other health conditions such as arthritis, some cancers, osteoarthritis, asthma, and irritable bowel disease [IBS].  Boswellia is available as a resin, pill, or cream.

Boswellia products can differ greatly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and remember to speak to your doctor before using any herbal therapy.

General dosing guidelines suggest taking 300–500 milligrams (mg) by mouth two to three times a day. The dosage may need to be higher for IBD.

The Arthritis Foundation suggests 300–400 mg three times per day of a product that contains 60 percent Boswellia acids.

Boswellia may stimulate blood flow in the uterus and pelvis. It can accelerate menstrual flow and may induce miscarriage in pregnant women.

Other possible side effects of Boswellia include nausea, diarrhoea, acid reflux and skin rashes.

Boswellia extract may also interact with medications, including ibuprofen, aspirin, paracetamol, and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs].

Many thanks for reading and warmest blessings to all whom this way wander x

Sources

BBC.co.uk

The Magic of Trees, by Tess Whitehurst

Wikipedia