| meloncholy memory |
[14 Oct 2009|12:27pm] |
she remembers'
lost in melocholy'
time stands still'
hoping to rekindle what they once were'
he is affriad to touch her'
she pleads inside her mind'
please find me so we can find us'''
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| meditation |
[03 Apr 2009|04:35pm] |
Journey of the Senses
Incense Meditation When we focus on incense sticks during meditation, we move into a mystical space that is both physical and spiritual at once. Like us, the incense stick is earthbound with an ember that burns for only a finite time, but the diaphanous spirit it releases is unbound by time or space. Rather than shutting down our senses to focus on an inner realm, incense involves our senses as we follow whirling smoke upward and outward while we take its scent into us, filling us as we breathe.
The journey starts with a flame, and then a glowing ember releases smoke to rise above us in an ethereal dance. Ashes fall below, purified by the fire. We can use this to imagine negative thoughts being changed from darkness into the beauty of warm gray snowflakes and a scented spun-silver plume, lighter than air. We can watch as our atmosphere is altered to become reminiscent of the heavens and lifts our thoughts: Embers become shooting stars, and the silver ribbon of smoke becomes unraveled clouds. Altered senses may guide our inspired thoughts to travel along new, perhaps undiscovered, pathways.
We can also imagine our physical selves being represented by the incense stick, our inner fire releasing magic into the world. That part of us emanates outward, expanding to mingle with the breath of those around us as we ride the wind to become part of everything. We can also see in the swirling smoke our life’s path, not a straight line but a twirling, meandering ballet that moves us ever onward and upward. We may leave a bit of ourselves behind as we bounce off of our surroundings, working through them, but no matter what we do, we cannot avoid our final destination: oneness with all that is. As spiritual beings enjoying the physical experience of life, incense meditations can help us remember the beauty and wonder of our existence, where heaven and earth, body and spirit, are all available to us in every moment.
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| Dark Innocence |
[29 Jul 2008|10:12am] |
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Darkness lures you' with eyes of promise' soft pouty lips' blood-red wings of velvet' pure silken hair' trails over lace-covered bosoms' you see a welcome here' a hint of softness' akin to the petal of a rose' and you wonder' what the night holds' will you find your heart' or lose your soul' in its pursuit' you step toward her' and through the wooden door' to the world beyond' the wall of stone' light behind you flickers' and extinguishes there is no return...author Dee Stotts
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| believe |
[13 Jul 2008|12:06pm] |
- What to plant to attract FaIrIeS to Y/your garden
  Bluebell ~ The most potent plant for fairy magic. Fields of bluebells are said to be so dangerously enchanted by fairies that a child who wanders into one may be held captive there by the Fae, and adults who enter bluebell patches may become so enchanted that they are unable to leave until other humans come to lead them out. Plant bluebells to attract fairies to your garden, they are called to their midnight revels by the sound of bluebells chiming. If you hear a bluebell ringing, this indicates the presence of a malicious fairy. Clover ~ Fields of clover are believed to attract fairies. A four-leaf clover is said to provide protection against the Fae, and to be able to break fairy spells and glamors. Wearing a four-leaf clover in your hat supposedly grants you the power to see invisible fairies, as does anointing yourself with an ointment made from four-leaf clover, or carrying a charm made of seven grains of wheat and a four-leaf clover. Cowslip ~ Cowslip blossoms are said to be loved by fairies, who use them for umbrellas, and protect the plants. Daffodil ~ Daffodils are useful for evoking fairies and elves. Daisy ~ Daisies are used in fairy magic, for working with elves or fairies. Putting a daisy chain on a child is said to prevent fairies from beguiling the child and carrying her or him away. Elecampane ~ Elf word and Elf Dock are folk names for elecampane, an herb whose roots are used in fairy magic. Scattering the root about is said to attract fairies to your home, and growing elecampane is said to attract them to your garden. Fairy Wands ~ Fairy Wands (Dierama polychrome) are associated with Titania, Shakespeare's fairy queen. They are used magically to call upon the Fae for help. Fern ~ Ferns are favored by pixies, who are said to sometimes be found near them. Forget-Me-Not ~ Forget-Me-Not flowers provide protection from fairies. They are said to help unlock the secrets of the Fae, and pave the way to fairy treasures. Foxglove (*poison) ~ Folk names for foxglove include Fairy Thimbles, Fairy Glove, Little folks glove, Fairy Fingers, Fairy Petticoats, Fairy Cap and Fairy Weed. Foxglove is strongly associated with fairies, who are said to wear the tiny flowers as hats. Foxglove is used in fairy magic and for the evocation of elves or earth elemental. The leaves are said to grant release from fairy enchantment. Planting foxglove is an invitation to fairies to enter your garden. Wearing foxglove is a charm to attract fairy energy. The juice of the plant is said to be effective in breaking fairy enchantments. Grass ~ Small fairies are said to ride bundles of grass as horses. Heather ~ Heather stalks are said to provide food for fairies. A field of heather may contain a portal to the Fairy Kingdom. Holly ~ Holly berries are said to be a fairy favorite. Hollyhock ~ Fairies are said to love hollyhocks, especially pink ones. Lavender ~ Elf Leaf is another name for lavender, which is used in elfin magic. Lilac ~ The scent of lilacs is said to attract fairies to a garden. Mistletoe ~ Adding mistletoe to a fairy spell on Midsummer Night's Eve makes the spell more powerful. Morning Glory ~ Plant morning glories in your garden to keep away hostile fairies, especially nocturnal ones. Mushrooms and toadstools ~ Mushrooms and toadstools with knob bed caps are said to be used as stools and umbrellas by small fairies. Some of the folk names for various types of fungi reflect this belief: Fairy Club, Elf Cap, Pixie Hood, Dryad's Saddle, Elf's Stool, etc. A circle of mushroom's on a lawn is called a Fairy Ring, Fairy Circle, Fairy Dance, or Fairy Court. Fairy rings were believed to be places of dangerous enchantment that formed where fairies danced. Pansy ~ Plant pansies to attract fairies to your garden. Peach ~ Some consider peaches to be fairy fruit. Pear ~ Japanese pears were called Fairies' Fire in the old Language of Flowers. Peony ~ Peonies are a charm to bring dreams of fairies. Primrose ~ Primroses were considered fairy flowers in Ireland and Wales, where they were believe to grant fairies the power of invisibility. Eating primroses is supposed to enable you to see fairies. hanging a spray of primroses on your door is said to be an invitation to the Fae to enter your home, and to draw fairy blessings; but scattering primroses outside your door is said to keep fairies away by making a barrier that they cannot cross. Touching a fairy rock with a primrose posy that contains the right number of blossoms (try five) is said to open the way to Fairyland and fairy gifts. Be cautious though, for using a bouquet with the wrong number of flowers is said to bring certain doom. Use primroses for fairy magic. Plant primroses in your garden to attract fairies to it. Be sure to take good care of them though, for allowing primroses to languish or die is said to earn you the enmity of fairies. Rose ~ Cultivate roses to attract fairies to your garden. Rose petals can be used in fairy magic, especially for love spells. Rosemary ~ Grow rosemary, or place fresh sprigs of it about, to keep malicious fairies away. Burn dried rosemary as incense to attract the Fae. St. John's Wort ~ St. John's Wort is said to offer protection from the Fae, and from fairy spells. Thistles ~ Thistles are also called Pixies' Gloves, because the Fae are said to use the tiny flowers as gloves. Thyme ~ Thyme is associated with fairies. Wearing a sprig of wild thyme, or essential oil of thyme, is said to help one to see fairies. If you place springs of thyme on your closed eyes and sleep upon a fairy mound, with will supposedly guarantee your seeing fairies. Dried, powdered thyme, sprinkled on doorsteps and window sills, is an invitation to the Fae into your home. Wild thyme, gathered from the side of a fairy mound, is especially potent for use in fairy magic. Violet ~ Violets are sacred to the Fairy Queen, and my be used in fairy spells. Wood Sorrel ~ Wood sorrel is used in fairy magic, and for evocation of elves
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| sacred |
[08 Mar 2008|01:46pm] |
Sacred Woods and the Lore of Trees
ALDER (Alnus spp.) This tree is a water lover. The oily water
resistant wood has been used extensively for underwater foundations
and pilings in Venice and elsewhere. It is used in dairy vessels and
the branches in making whistles. It is associated with Bran, as He
used His body as a bridge to span dangerous waters. It is used in the
construction of bridges. Bran's Head was oracular. Alder indicates
protection and oracular powers.
APPLE* (Malus spp.) A dense, fine-grained, rosy-coloured wood with a
slightly sweet smell. The Apple is the earliest cultivated tree. It is
associated with choice. At Somerset, an auction was held for single
acre plots on two pieces of common land. Plots were marked and
matching marks made on the fruit. The apples were then placed in a bag
and commoners were allocated land by the distribution of the fruit.
All the acres of land were similar, as many times today choices must
be made between similar and equally attractive things. Regardless, the
choice must be made. In Norse myth, Idunna was the keeper of the
'apples of immortality' which kept the Gods young. The 'fruit-bearing
tree' refered to by Tacitus in his description of Norse runic
divination may have been the apple. Apple indicates choice, and is
useful for love and healing magic.
ASH* (Fraxinus spp.) A strong, straight-grained wood; sometimes has
'olive' streaks or stripes in the grain. The European variety
(fraxinus excelcior) was referred to in the Eddas as the species of
Yggdrasil - the 'World-Tree". The first man, named Ask, was created
from an ash log. Ash was commonly used to make spears because of its
'springiness' and straight grain. In North America, strips of black
ash were split along the grain to make splints for baskets and hoops.
It is used in weaver's beams. Women would weave cloth and
intermingling threads together in a tight pattern as the microcosm and
the macrocosm are united. Ash can be used in spells requiring focus
and strength of purpose, and indicates the linking of the inner and
outer worlds.
BEECH (Fagus spp.) Beech wood is closely grained, very easy to work
giving a smooth even surface. At one time Beech tablets were used as
writing surfaces because of the above mentioned qualities. Beech and
book have the same word origins. Beech is concerned with ancient
knowledge as revealed in old objects, places and writings. Beech
indicates guidance from the past to gain insight which protects and
provides a solid base upon which all relies.
BIRCH* (Betula spp.) A lovely pale, fine-grained wood. Long associated
with fertility and healing magic, birch twigs were used to bestow
fertility on cattle and newlyweds, and children's cradles were made
from its wood. Birch is one of the first trees to grow on bare soil
and thus it births the entire forest. Criminals were at one time
birched to drive out evil influences on them, to renew them for the
new year. Birch was associated with Thor, probably in recognition of
his role as an agricultural and fertility deity. Birch is an
incredibly useful tree - nearly every part of it is edible, and it's
sap was an important source of sugar to Native Americans and early
settlers. The inner bark provides a pain reliever and the leaves are
used to treat arthritis. It's bark was used for everything from paper
to canoe hulls, and axe handles were also made from Birch. Birch is
most useful for fertility and healing spells.
BLACKTHORN (Prunus spinosa) Blackthorn is a winter tree. The sloe, its
fruits ripen and sweeten only after the nip of the frost. White
flowers are seen even before the leaves in the spring. It is black
barked with vicious thorns and grows in dense thickets. The wood is
used in the cudgel shillelagh and Blasting Stick. Its thorns are used
to pierce waxen images. Blackthorn indicates strong action of fate or
outside influences that must be obeyed.
ELDER (Sambucus spp.) The Latin name sambucus is derived from a Greek
word for a wind instrument made from elder. The pith can easily be
removed from the small branches to make a flute. Elder regrows damaged
branches with ease and can root rapidly from any part. A tea for
purifying the blood can be made from the flowers and wine from the
fruit, but in general the tree is poisonous. In Norse mythology, the
Goddess Freya chose the black elder as her home. In medieval times it
was the abode of witches and it was considered dangerous to sleep
under its branches or to cut it down. Sticks of Elder were used as
magical horses by Witches. Elder indicates the end in the beginning
and the beginning in the end. Life in Death and Death in Life.
ELM* (Ulmus spp.) A slightly fibrous, tan-coloured wood with a slight
sheen. Elm is often associated with Mother and Earth Goddesses, and
was said to be the abode of faeries, explaining Kipling's injunction;
"Ailim be the lady's tree; burn it not or cursed ye'll be". Elm wood
is valued for it's resistance to splitting, and the inner bark was
used for cordage and chair caning. Elm adds stability and grounding to
a spell.
FIR (Abies spp.) Fir is a very tall slender tree that grows in
mountainous regions on the upper slopes. Fir cones respond to rain by
closing and the sun by opening. Fir can see over great distance to the
far horizon beyond and below. Fir indicates high views and long sights
with clear vision of what is beyond and yet to come.
HAWTHORN (Crataegus oxyacantha) A light, hard, apple-like wood.
Hawthorn usually doesn't grow much bigger than a shrub, and is popular
in England as a hedge plant. The wood from the Hawthorn provides the
hottest fire known. Its leaves and blossoms are used to create a tea
to aid with anxiety, appetite loss and poor circulation. The Greeks
and Romans saw the hawthorn as symbolic of hope and marriage, but in
medieval Europe it was associated with witchcraft and considered to be
unlucky. This seeming contradiction is to be expected from a tree with
such beautiful blossoms and such deadly-looking thorns. Hawthorn can
be used for protection, love and marriage spells.
HAZEL (Corylus avallania) Hazel is another food tree. In Celtic
tradition, the Salmon of Knowledge is said to eat the 9 nuts of poetic
wisdom dropped into its sacred pool from the hazel tree growing beside
it. Each nut eaten by the salmon becomes a spot on its skin. The Hazel
tree provided shade, protection and baskets. In Europe and North
America, hazel is commonly used for 'water-witching' - the art of
finding water with a forked stick. Magically, hazel wood is used to
gain knowledge, wisdom and poetic inspiration.
HOLLY* (Ilex aquifolium) A beautiful white wood with an almost
invisible grain; looks very much like ivory. Holly is associated with
the death and rebirth symbolism of winter in both Pagan and Christian
lore. In Arthurian legend, Gawain (representing the Oak King of
summer) fought the Green Knight, who was armed with a holly club to
represent winter. It is one of the three timbers used in the
construction of chariot wheel shafts. It was used in spear shafts
also. The qualities of a spear shaft are balance and directness, as
the spear must be hefted to be thrown the holly indicates directed
balance and vigour to fight if the cause is just. Holly may be used in
spells having to do with sleep or rest, and to ease the passage of death.
LARCH (Larix europaea) A light softwood, very similar to spruce. Larch
is one of the few conifers which sheds its needles in the winter. It
is closely related to the North American tamarack (larix laricina).
The larch plays an important role in Sami (Lapp) and Siberian
mythology where it takes the place of the ash as the World-tree. Their
shamans use larch wood to rim their ceremonial drums. The smoke from
burning larch is said to ward off evil spirits. Larch may be used for
protection and to induce visions.
MAPLE (Acer spp.) A very hard, pale, fine-grained wood. Although the
sugar maple has the highest sugar content in its sap, all maple
species can be tapped to make syrup and sugar, making them a vital
resource to early North American settlers. In north-eastern North
America, the annual 'sugaring-off' usually coincides with the vernal
equinox, making it one of the first signs of spring. Maple can bring
success and abundance.
OAK (Quercus spp.) Red Oak* (Quercus rubra) A strong,
straight-grained, slightly porous wood with a slight reddish hue. Its
energy is a bit lighter and more 'firey' than the other oaks.
White Oak* (Quercus alba) Darker and denser than red oak. It's
strength and density have led to its being used in barrel-making and
shipbuilding. Useful for spells requiring strength and solidity.
Brown (English) Oak* (Quercus robur) A richly-coloured dark brown
wood. 'Bog oak' is brown oak which has fallen into a peat bog and been
preserved there for hundreds of years until it begins to have the
consistancy of coal. Brown oak has a very earthy feel, and is useful
for grounding. Oak has been considered sacred by just about every
culture that has encountered the tree, but it was held in particular
esteem by the Norse and Celts because of its size, longevity, and
nutritious acorns. The oak is frequently associated with Gods of
thunder and lightening such as Zeus, Thor, and the Lithuanian God
Perkunas. This association may be due to the oak's habit of being hit
by lightening during storms. Specific oak trees have also been
associated with the 'Wild Hunt', which is led by Herne in England and
by Wodin in Germany. In general, oak can be used in spells for
protection, strength, success and stability; the different varieties
will lend their own special 'flavour' to the magic.
PINE (Pinus spp.) The Pine tree is an evergreen, its old title was
"the sweetest of woods". Its needles are a valuable source of vitamin
C and can loosen a tight chest. The scent of Pine is useful in the
alleviation of guilt. The Bach's flower remedies lists it for dealing
with feelings of guilt. Pine indicates issues of guilt within you.
POPLAR (Populus spp.) The White Poplar flourishes beside rivers, in
marshes and in other watery areas. The pith is star shaped. The upper
leaves are green, the underside is silver. The wood was used in the
making of shields. Leaves move with every puff of wind. It is commonly
referred to as the talking, whispering and quivering tree. The
Anglo-Saxon rune poem seems to refer to the poplar as being associated
with the rune berkano. Heracles wore a crown of poplar leaves when he
retrieved Cerberus from Hades, and the upper surface of the leaves was
thus darkened from Hades' smokey fumes. In Christian lore, the quaking
poplar (aspen) was used to construct Christ's cross, and the leaves of
the tree quiver when they remember this fact. The Poplar's ability to
resist and to shield, its association with speech, language and the
Winds indicates an ability to endure and conquer.
ROWAN (Sorbus aucuparia) The Rowan tree (also called Mountain Ash) is
long known for aid and protection against enchantment. Sticks of the
Rowan were used to carve Runes on. It was also used in the art of
metal divining. Rowan spays and crosses were placed over cattle in
pens and over homes for protection. Its lovely red berries feed the
birds in winter. The berries have a tiny pentagram on them. The
pentagram is the ancient symbol of protection. The Rowan tree
indicates protection and control of the senses from enchantment and
beguiling.
WILLOW (Salix babylonica) The willow is another water loving tree.
Willow bark contains Salicin which is used in the treatment of
rheumatic fever and various damp diseases. Her catkins, which appear
in early spring before her leaves, attract bees to start the cycle of
pollination. In western tradition it is a symbol of mourning and
unlucky love. The Latin name for the weeping willow refers to the
psalm in which the Hebrews mourn their captivity in Babylon by the
willows. Willow indicates cycles, rhythms and the ebb and flux.
YEW* (Taxus baccata) A beautifully smooth, gold-coloured wood with a
wavy grain. All parts of the tree are poisonous except the fleshy
covering of the berry, and its medicinal uses include a recently
discovered treatment for cancer. Long associated with magic, death,
rebirth and the runes, the yew may be the oldest-lived tree in the
world. Ancient yews can be found in churchyards all over Britain,
where they often pre-date even the oldest churches. There are some
convincing arguements for it being the original 'World-tree' of
Scandinavian mythology. In Europe, yew wood was used for making bows,
while on the northwest coast of North America, the Pacific yew (Taxus
brevifolia) is used by the Haida and other tribes for making masks and
boxes. Yew may be used to enhance magical and psychic abilities, and
to induce visions.
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| harvest moon |
[08 Sep 2007|12:30pm] |
Harvest Moon
The Harvest Moon also called Wine Moon, Singing Moon, Sturgeon Moon,
Haligmonath (Holy Month), Witumanoth (Wood Month), Moon Barley Moon,
When
Deer Paw the Earth. Drink a toast to Dionysus, the God of wine and
ecstasy -
The son of the Moon! Gather with friends to celebrate the vine with a
bottle
of good wine and good cheer. Catch the Moons reflection in your cup and
raise it up in salutation, now drink in her essence and feel the
presence of
the God and Goddess.
Correspondences
Nature Spirits: trooping faeries
Herbs: Copal, Fennel, Rye, Wheat, Valerian, Skullcap
Colors: Brown, Yellow-Green, Yellow
Flowers: Narcissus, Lily
Scents: Storax, Mastic, Gardenia, Bergamot
Stones: Peridot, Olivine, Chrysolite, Citrine
Trees: Hazel, Larch, Bay
Animals: Snake, Jackel
Birds: Ibis, Sparrow
Deities: Demeter, Dionysus, Ceres, Isis, Nephthys, Freyja, Ch’ang-O,
Pomona,
Thoth
Month: September
Septem was the seventh month in the oldest Roman calendars. When other
months were added to the seasonal calendar, the name for some reason
was
never changed. Pomona, patroness of fruit and fruit-trees, was tutelary
goddess of this month in which autumn begins.
September was Meán Fómhair in Ireland or an t-Sultainn, the fat time.
All
these names refer to the ripening harvest. The September moon is
gealach an
abachaidh, moon of ripening. Haligmonath, "holy month," was the month
of
September among the Anglo-Saxons. The Franks called this month
Witumanoth,
"wood month," for this when the majority of wood was gathered for the
coming
cold months. September is Shedding among the Asatru.
Libra takes over from Virgo around September 23rd. Those born this
month
have the aster for their birth flower. The stone for Virgo and those
born in
September is the sapphire. Chrysolite and sardonyx are also listed as
stones
for those born in Septmeber. Libra’s birthstone is opal or
tourmaline, and
Libra is also linked to aquamarine, emerald, kunzite, moonstone, opal,
peridot, and pink tourmaline. Amazonite, amber, carnelian, chrysocolla,
citrine, and sapphire are other stones associated with Virgo
Power Flow: Rest after labor; balance of Light and Dark, Organize, and
spiritual clutter.
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| moon goddess |
[15 Aug 2007|11:25am] |
| [ |
mood |
| |
 calm |
] |
| [ |
music |
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nox arcana |
] |
MOON GODDESS GARDENING TECHNIQUES
.....by Patricia Telesco
The anicents believed that a Witch received power from the moon, which may be why many Pagan calendars stress the lunar cycles so much even today. For the goddess gardener, however, the moon is also a symbol of the Lady herself. In literally hundreds of ancient settings, the moon was characterized as female, and Her names were many. They include Chia (Columbian), Hina (Polynesian) , Luna (Roman), and Selene (Greek), to name just a few.
Beyond the potent symbolic value here, our ancestors felt that timing the planting, tending, or harvesting of one's plants could be more effective if we followed moonsigns and moon cycles. For example, when the moon was dark, it was time to plant underground vegetables. When the moon was waning it was time to plant peas or other items that vine counterclockwise. According to most really talented gardeners that I know from the old school, this type of reverence toward nature's hints really works.
If you'd like to apply this concept in your own goddess gardens, here's a list that will help you.
GARDENING BY MOONSIGNS
* Moon in Aries: Plant garlic and onions, but nothing that requires really fertile soil.
* Moon in Taurus: Plant potatoes, root crops, leafy vegetables, and bulb-bearing items.
* Moon in Gemini: Weed and cultivate or harvest root crops.
*Moon in Cancer: Graft, sow, transplant, and force budding.
*Moon in Leo: Focus on deterring bugs using natural treatments and companion planting. Harvest items.
*Moon in Virgo: It's best not to do anything new in the garden at this time other thatn planting morning glory, honeysuckle, tulips, and endive.
*Moon in Libra: Plant above-ground flowers and vegetables.
*Moon in Scorpio: Plant vining greenery, berries, and grains.
*Moon in Sagittarius: Plant onions. Transplant and preserve your harvest.
* Moon in Capricorn: Plant root crops and tubers. Fertilize the soil.
* Moon in Aquarius: Cultivate, weed, and turn the soil.
* Moon in Pisces: Work with plants that require strong root growth, such as aspargus. Plant flowers.
GARDENING BY MOON CYCLES
FIRST QUARTER:
Plant annuals and vegetables that yield their fruit above grouns (such as celery and lettuce). Green vegetables and herbs (such as cabbage and basil) seem to like this phase.
SECOND QUARTER: Plant any "roundish" flora and vegetables (such as tomato and melon) and any flowering vines.
THIRD QUARTER: Plant root crops and bulbs or anything that yields below ground (such as garlic). This Quarter is also good for fruit-bearing plants (such as strawberry and cherry).
FOURTH QUARTER: Let the land rest. Weed your soil, and then turn and fertilize it.
Note that these two systems (gardening by moonsign and gardening by moon phases) can work together nicely. For example, if the moon happens to be in Aquarius at the same time it's in the fourth quarter, this would double the effect of weeding and turning the soil. After the quarter passes, move forward with sowing knowing that the land is rejuvenated!
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| herbs |
[21 Jul 2007|04:28pm] |
|
The Apothecary COMMERCIALLY SUPPLIED: Fresh leaves and/or fresh roots may be used in their natural form, but they also may be found in tablet form, capsules, bark pieces, powders, liquid beverages, extracts, tinctures, lotions, creams, salves, or oils. Whole dried roots or leaves are available. APPLICATIONS: Some ways herbs can be used. - Compress: Soak a cloth in a cool herb solution, then apply directly to the injured area.
- Decoction: Make a tea from the root, seed, berry, or bark of the herb plant. Simmer the tea, do not boil.
- Essential Oils: Oils are distilled from plants or by cold extraction. Usually they are mixed with vegetable oil or water and used as an inhalant, douche, or tea. Also, they may be used as eyewash, earwash, mouthwash, or used externally for massage, and to treat cuts and abrasions. Essential oils easily and readily combine with the natural fats and oils of the skin.
- Extracts: Place the herbs in a solvent and soak, allowing the solution to evaporate. This solution is the most effective form of using herbs when severely or acutely ill.
A few of the herb extracts found in health food stores are listed here. They are very beneficial in healing. May be added to juices and taken while fasting for best results. - Celery
- Echinacea
- Fig
- Goldenseal
- Hawthorn
- Horsetail
- Nettle
- Parsley
- Pau d'arco
- Pumpkin
- Red beet crystals
- Red clover
- Suma
- Valerian root
- Herb Vinegars: Put herb in raw apple cider vinegar, rice or malt and left to stand for two or more weeks.
- Infusion: The tenderest leaf, flower or part of the plant to be used is steeped (not boiled) for five minutes in hot water, thus the benefits of the herb is not destroyed.
- Ointment: A powdered form of an herb added to a salve.
- Poultice: A hot, moist, soft mass of herbs, flour, mustard, and other substances is spread on muslin or cloth and applied for one to eight hours on a sore or inflamed area of the body to relieve pain and inflammation. Ground or granulated herbs are best. The cloth or muslin should be changed when cooled.
- Powder: The useful part of an herb is ground into a powder and is also used in capsule or tablet form. Capsules and tablets are generally used for certain disorders and should be used no longer than six months at a time.
- Syrup: An herb or herbs are added to a form of sugar and then boiled.
- Salves: Salves, oils, creams and lotions are generally used on sores, bruises, and inflammations (such as for poultices).
- Tincture: Usually, most tinctures contain about 20-50% alcohol. Powdered herbs are added to a water/alcohol solution. Tinctures keep for a long period of time and should only be used if severely ill.
- Tisane: This is a type of tea that has no caffeine, theine or tannic acids. Caffeine and theine drain vital forces and reserves of energy. Nervous and weakened people are very susceptible to beverages containing caffeine and theine. Tannic acid beverages effect normal digestive processes. The tisane contains no calories, good for weight reduction dieting. This type of tea is harvested from the natural plant and used fresh or dried, but has no commerical processing or additives.
- Tea: To prepare herb tea, use approximately one to three teaspoons of herbs per cup of boiling water. Boil water in a kettle as you would for other teas but do not use an aluminum kettle. Pour water into a mug or pot, leave herbs to steep for at least five minutes, but don't leave for longer than ten minutes or the tea will be bitter. For stronger tea, use more herb rather than steeping the tea for a longer time. Store herb tea in amber colored jars, never in clear glass jars. The potency of the herb is destroyed by light. Mild teas may be used daily as tonics and for general health and well-being. Strong but beneficial herbs may be taken in teas with less problems. Herb teas, usually, may be used over long periods of time.
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| hope |
[07 Jul 2007|04:00pm] |
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"While there's life, there's hope." .........marcus tullius cicero
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| beautiful blessings |
[04 Jul 2007|11:08am] |
Adrian Christian was born and beautiful`'
WE LOVE HIM!!!
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| poem |
[25 May 2007|10:25am] |
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Now sleeps the crimson petal, now the white;
Nor waves the cypress in the palace walk;
Nor winks the gold fin in the porphyry font:
The fire-fly wakens: waken thou with me. Now droops the milkwhite peacock like a ghost,
And like a ghost she glimmers on to me. Now lies the earth all Danaë to the stars,
And all thy heart lies open unto me. Now slides the silent meteor on, and leaves
A shining furrow, as thy thoughts in me. Now folds the lily all her sweetness up,
And slips into the bosom of the lake:
So fold thyself, my dearest, thou and slip
Into my bosom and be lost in me. Alfred Lord Tennyson
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| leo |
[21 Apr 2007|07:50pm] |
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 Leo
July 23 - Aug. 22 Element: Fire--view the world through intuition Stone: Yellow topaz;Tigers Eye;Ruby; Milky yellow amber Colors: Ocher;golden hues Attractions: Scorpio, Capricorn, other Leos Motto: I create. Notable people born under the sign of Leo: Napoleon Bonaparte, Mae West, Madonna, Robert De Niro, Annie Oakley, Mata Hari, Bill Clinton, Amelia Earhardt, Martin Sheen. Personality: :They love to be admired, and being placed on a pedestal. They are natural leaders. Their home is their castle. They enjoy nothing more than sharing hospitality with others. A Leo will defend loved ones to the last drop--if necessary. Beware of fixed attitudes,they may stand in the way of growth.
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[21 Apr 2007|07:46pm] |
The Hare Hares fall under a most fortunate sign! Their sign is the emblem of long life and they possess the powers of the moon. Hares are very sensitive to beauty. They are gracious and soft spoken. Hares are the diplomats and the peace-makers. They enjoy a tranquil life and love a quiet evening at home. Hares are reserved and very artistic. They are thorough and good scholars. When Hares are moody, which is often, they will appear totally indifferent to the world. Hares are lucky in money matters and great at finding a bargain. They may look easy-going, but they are actually quite cunning! Being a strong-willed person, they go quietly but determinedly towards their goals. They don't like making waves and find other means to get their way. Hares are well-mannered and seldom use harsh words or foul language. Instead they cater to your every whim until they get their way. Before you know it, you have been won over! Although Hares appear slow at times, they are actually practicing caution. They read all the fine print before signing their names. Their uncanny abilities to correctly assess people and situations leave them quite conceited. Hares are considerate, understanding, warm, friendly, and easy to be with. They know how to relax. When everyone is rushing around, Hares remind you that there is still tomorrow. Their motto is "live and let live". Hares would never embarrass you in public and they know how to save face. If Hares can spare your feelings, they will. For this they are well liked. Hares make few enemies and rarely get into serious trouble. No one is more understanding. Hares give you all the sympathy you need. Just don't expect them to go out and do battle for you.If the going gets too rough, Hares may make a quick exit. They can't stand suffering and misery. Hares are experts at passing the buck and may hedge over difficult issues. When they feel too threatened they are unpredictable. If you push them too far they will simply get rid of you! Hares were not born to be fighters. They have their own ways that are very effective. Having good sense they know how to take care of themselves. They protect their own environment from strife at all costs. Hares are good entertainers and hosts. They have good words to say about everyone. Although they often know more than they will say,they are discreet in their choice of friends. No matter what happens to Hares, they land on their feet and easily leap obstacles in their path. Hares believe in themselves and are at peace within. They will find success and contentment | |
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| beautiful quote |
[09 Apr 2007|01:34pm] |
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she walks in beauty like the night of cloudless chimes, and starry skies and all thats best of dark and bright meets in her aspects and in her eyes...Lord Byron
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| poem for pal |
[19 Mar 2007|09:18am] |
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MEMBER OF THE FAMILY
What would I do without you
My precious, furry friend?...
Part mischief, but all blessing,
And faithful to the end!
You look at me with eyes of love:
You never hold a grudge...
You think I'm far too wonderful
To criticize or judge.
It seems your greatest joy in life
Is being close to me...
I think God knew how comforting
Your warm, soft fur would be.
I know you think you're human,
But I'm glad it isn't true...
The world would be a nicer place
If folks were more like you!
A few short years is all we have:
One day we'll have to part...
But you my pet, will always have
A place within my heart.
~ Hope Marrington Molb ~
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| storm moon |
[03 Mar 2007|05:59pm] |
Tonight , while the moon is covered with that dusky-burgandy shadow'
work for transformation and to increse psychic abilities'
to honor the lunar eclipse,light two small tapers'
one white'one burgandy'
sit and meditate on changes you'd like'
repeat this spell as the eclipse begins'
~~~***~~~
as the goddess pulls her soft cloak across the face of the moon'
i light a dark and white candle to bring transformation soon'
as the eclipse shows all the lunar phases so bright'
may my psychic talents be seen in a whole new light...............^^^ once the spell is spoken, go find a good spot to watch one of natures finest shows, allow the candles to burn in a safe place until they go out..ellen dugan
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| lunar |
[03 Mar 2007|05:57pm] |
Red Lunar Eclipse on Saturday March 3, 2007
Saturday night's skies will glow with a red color, and if the night is clear it will be the perfect opportunity to see the a red lunar eclipse.
The eclipse occurs because Earth will be exactly positioned between the sun and the moon so that most of the light falling on the moon is effectively blocked by Earth. The moon's unusual coloring is caused by the bending of light waves that have curved around Earth and filtered through the atmosphere. The hue depends on how much dust exists there.
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| cone of power |
[28 Feb 2007|03:21pm] |
Cone of Power
The cone of power is part of the beliefs and practices of witchcraft. It is used in many covens as the process of raising power to achieve witches' ambitions.
The cone of power is a power created in a coven by a group of witches. This power is referred to as the rising power or psychic power. Witches hold hands, chant, and dance around the circle to raise the power. The bottom of the cone is the circle. Within the circle, the power rises to the highest point of the cone. This cone is said to extend into infinity. Witches create a cone of power to accomplish a goal. Their goal might be to cast a spell or perform healing. After the ceremony concludes, the rising power does not exist.
The psychic power is regarded as equivalent to the power of prayer in prayer meetings. Witches sometimes have the ability to visualize the cone of power as a cloud with changing colors, or a silvery-blue light.
The sun, eternity, unity, rebirth, and the triangle are all symbols used in the circle of the cone of power. Pyramids are associated with the triangle. They symbolize the idea of spiritual desires above all things. Three is an important number in witchcraft, because it is the number of the triangle. It also represents the triple Goddess.
Witches have claimed that the cone of power has been used throughout history. Through the cone of power, they claimed to have defeated the Spanish Armada in 1588, and to have raised power against Napoleon Bonaparte in 1700. Witches in California have also claimed to have ended the Vietnam War through the cone of power.
http://library.thinkquest.org/25407/html/conepower.htm
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| ~One~of~a~kind~ |
[21 Jan 2007|06:26pm] |
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mood |
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 discontent |
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~^~I carry Your heart with me~
I carry it in my heart~
I am never without it~.......E.E.Cumming's~^~
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