https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/?output=RSS en Sat, 12 Jun 2010 14:47:24 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/acorn_oak.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/acorn_oak.htm This is the well-known fruit of our British Oak, to Which tree it gives the name—Aik, or Eik, Oak. The Acorn was esteemed by Dioscorides, and other old authors, for its supposed medicinal virtues. Sat, 12 Jun 2010 16:18:26 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/agrimony_1.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/agrimony_1.htm The Agrimony is a herbal simple well known to all country folk, and abundant throughout England in the fields and woods, as a popular domestic medicinal herb. Agrimony belongs to the Rose order of plants, and blossoms from June to September with small yellow flowers, which sit close along slender spikes a foot high, smelling like apricots, and called by the rustics "Church Steeples." Sat, 12 Jun 2010 16:31:35 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/anemone.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/anemone.htm The Wood Anemone, or medicinal English Pulsatilla, with its lovely pink white petals, and drooping blossoms, is one of our best known and most beautiful spring flowers. Herbalists do not distinguish it virtually from the silky-haired Anemone Pulsatilla, which medicinal variety is of highly valuable modern curative use as a Herbal Simple. The active chemical principles of each plant are "anemonin" and "anemonic acid." Sat, 12 Jun 2010 16:43:17 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/angelica.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/angelica.htm The wild Angelica grows commonly throughout England in wet places as an umbelliferous plant, with a tall hollow stem, out of which boys like to make pipes. It is purple, furrowed, and downy, bearing white flowers tinged with pink. But the herb is not useful as a herbal simple until cultivated in our gardens, the larger variety being chosen for this purpose, and bearing the name Angelica Archangelica. Sat, 12 Jun 2010 18:09:26 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/aniseed.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/aniseed.htm The Anise Pimpinella, from "bipenella," because of its secondary, feather-like leaflets, belongs to the umbelliferous plants, and is cultivated in our gardens; but its aromatic seeds chiefly come from Germany. The careful housewife will do well always to have a supply of this most useful herbal simple closely bottled in her store cupboard. Sat, 12 Jun 2010 18:17:49 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/apple.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/apple.htm Old Scandinavian traditions represent the Apple as the food of the gods, who, when they felt themselves growing feeble and infirm, resorted to this fruit for renewing their powers of mind and body Sat, 12 Jun 2010 18:25:38 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/arum.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/arum.htm The "lords and ladies" (arum maculatum) so well known to every rustic as common throughout Spring in almost every hedge row, has acquired its name from the colour of its erect pointed spike enclosed within the curled hood of an upright arrow-shaped leaf. Sat, 12 Jun 2010 18:41:10 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/asparagus.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/asparagus.htm "Liebig, or some other scientist maintains that asparagin—the alkaloid in asparagus-develops form in the human brain: so, if you get hold of an artistic child, and give him plenty of asparagus, he will grow into a second Raffaelle!" Sat, 12 Jun 2010 18:51:23 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/balm.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/balm.htm "Balm," adds John Evelyn, "is sovereign for the brain, strengthening the memory, and powerfully chasing away melancholy." In France, women bruise the young shoots of balm, and make them into cakes, with eggs, sugar, and rose water, which they give to mothers in childbed as a strengthener. Sat, 12 Jun 2010 19:02:20 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/barberry.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/barberry.htm The Common Barberry (Berberis), which gives its name to a special order of plants, grows wild as a shrub in our English copses and hedges, particularly about Essex, being so called from Berberin, a pearl oyster, because the leaves are glossy like the inside of an oyster shell. Sat, 12 Jun 2010 21:36:26 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/barley.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/barley.htm Hordeum Vulgare—common Barley—is chiefly used in Great Britain for brewing and distilling; but, it has dietetic and medicinal virtues which entitle it to be considered among serviceable herbal simples. Roman gladiators who depended for their strength and prowess chiefly on Barley, were called Hordearii. Sat, 12 Jun 2010 21:49:10 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/basil.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/basil.htm The herb Sweet Basil (Ocymum Basilicum) is so called because "the smell thereof is fit for a king's house." It grows commonly in our kitchen gardens, but in England it dies down every year, and the seeds have to be sown annually. Botanically, it is named "basilicon," or royal, probably because used of old in some regal unguent, or bath, or medicine. Sat, 12 Jun 2010 21:56:31 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/bennet_herb.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/bennet_herb.htm The Bennet Herb, the Herba Benedicta, or Blessed Herb, or Avens (Geum Urbanum) is a very common plant of the Rose tribe, in our woods, hedges, and shady places. It has an erect hairy stem, red at the base, with terminal bright yellow drooping flowers. The ordinary name Avens—or Avance, Anancia, Enancia—signifies an antidote, because it was formerly thought to ward off the Devil, and evil spirits, and venomous beasts. Sat, 12 Jun 2010 22:04:57 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/betony.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/betony.htm Few, if any, herbal plants have been more praised for their supposed curative virtues than the Wood Betony (Stachys Betonica), belonging to the order of Labiates. By the common people it is often called Bitny. The nameBetonica is from the Celtic "ben," head, and "tonic," good, in allusion to the usefulness of the herb against infirmities of the head. Sat, 12 Jun 2010 22:26:53 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/bilberry.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/bilberry.htm This fruit, which belongs to the Cranberry order of plants, grows abundantly throughout England in heathy and mountainous districts. The small-branched shrub bears globular, wax-like flowers, and black berries, which are covered, when quite fresh, with a grey bloom. Sat, 12 Jun 2010 22:43:37 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/blackberry.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/blackberry.htm Blackberry is the well-known fruit of the Common Bramble (Rubus fructicosus), which grows in every English hedgerow, and which belongs to the Rose order of plants. It has long been esteemed for its bark and leaves as a capital astringent, these containing much tannin; also for its fruit, which is supplied with malic and citric acids, pectin, and albumen. Sun, 13 Jun 2010 00:40:09 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/bluebell.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/bluebell.htm The bluebell—the Agraphis mutans,—of the Lily tribe—is so abundant in English woods and pastures, whilst so widely known, and popular with young and old, as to need no description. Sun, 13 Jun 2010 00:58:18 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/borage.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/borage.htm The Borage, with its gallant blue flower, is cultivated in our gardens as a pot herb, and is associated in our minds with bees and claret cup. It grows wild in abundance on open plains where the soil is favourable, and it has a long-established reputation for cheering the spirits. Sun, 13 Jun 2010 01:07:14 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/broom.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/broom.htm The Broom, or Link (Cytisus scoparius) is a leguminous shrub which is well known as growing abundantly on open places in our rural districts. The prefix "cytisus" is derived from the name of a Greek island where Broom abounded. Sun, 13 Jun 2010 01:17:41 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/bryony.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/bryony.htm English hedgerows exhibit Bryony of two distinct sorts—the white and the black—which differ much, the one from the other, as to medicinal properties, and which belong to separate orders of plants. Sun, 13 Jun 2010 00:46:25 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/buckbean.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/buckbean.htm The Buckbean, or Bogbean or Marsh Trefoil, which is common enough in stagnant pools, and on our spongy bogs, is the most serviceable of all known herbal tonics. The Buckbean may be easily recognised growing in water by its large leaves overtopping the surface, each being composed of three leaflets, and resembling the leaf of a Windsor Broad Bean. Sun, 13 Jun 2010 01:33:00 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/buckthorn.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/buckthorn.htm The common Buckthorn grows in our woods and thickets, and used to be popularly known because of the purgative syrup made from its juice and berries. It bears dense branches of small green flowers, followed by the black berries, which purge violently. Thu, 17 Jun 2010 00:48:20 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/buttercup.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/buttercup.htm The Buttercup generally is known in Wiltshire and the adjoining counties as Crazy, or Crazies, being reckoned by some as an insane plant calculated to produce madness; or as a corruption of Christseye (which was the medieval name of the Marigold). Thu, 17 Jun 2010 00:56:17 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/cabbage.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/cabbage.htm "The time has come," as the walrus said in Alice and the Looking Glass, "to talk of many things"— "Of shoes, and ships, and sealing-wax; of Cabbages, and kings." Thu, 17 Jun 2010 01:04:16 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/camphor.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/camphor.htm The medicinal basis of Camphor is certainly a powerful agent, and its stimulating volatile principles are found to exist in most of the aromatic herbs; in fact, Camphor is a concrete volatile vegetable oil, and camphoraceous properties signalise all the essences derived from carminative Herbal Simples. Thu, 17 Jun 2010 01:04:17 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/capsicum.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/capsicum.htm The Capsicum, or Bird Pepper, or Guinea Pepper, is a native of tropical countries; but it has been cultivated throughout Great Britain as a stove plant for so many years (since the time of Gerard, 1636) as to have become practically indigenous. Moreover, its fruit-pods are so highly useful, whether as a condiment, or as a medicine, no apology is needed for including it among serviceable Herbal Simples. Thu, 17 Jun 2010 01:19:48 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/caraway.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/caraway.htm The name Caraway comes from the Gaelic Caroh, a ship, because of the shape which the fruit takes. By cultivation the root becomes more succulent, and the fruit larger, whilst more oily, and therefore acquiring an increase of aromatic taste and odour. Thu, 17 Jun 2010 01:41:20 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/carrot.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/carrot.htm The yellow core of the Carrot is the part which is difficult of digestion with some persons, not the outer red layer. Before the French Revolution the sale of Carrots and oranges was prohibited in the Dutch markets, because of the unpopular aristocratic colour of these commodities. Thu, 17 Jun 2010 01:52:52 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/celandine.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/celandine.htm The celandine flower is a conspicuous herald of spring, which is strikingly welcome to everyone living in the country throughout England, and a stranger to none. The Pilewort, or lesser Celandine, bespangles all our banks with its brilliant, glossy, golden stars, coming into blossom on or about March 7th, St. Perpetua's day. Thu, 17 Jun 2010 09:31:28 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/celery.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/celery.htm In 1879, Mr. Gibson Ward, then President of the Vegetarian Society, wrote some letters to the Times, which commanded much attention, about Celery as a food and a medicament. "Celery," said he, "when cooked, is a very fine dish, both as a nutriment and as a purifier of the blood; I will not attempt to enumerate all the marvellous cures I have made with Celery, lest medical men should be worrying me en masse. Let me fearlessly say that rheumatism is impossible on this diet." Thu, 17 Jun 2010 09:37:28 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/centaury.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/centaury.htm Of all the bitter appetising herbs which grow in our fields and hedgerows, and which serve as excellent simple tonics, the Centaury, particularly its white flowered variety, belonging to the Gentian order of plants, is the most efficacious. Centaury shares in an abundant measure the restorative antiseptic virtues of the Field Gentian and the Buckbean Thu, 17 Jun 2010 01:29:32 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/chamomile.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/chamomile.htm No Simple in the whole catalogue of herbal medicines is possessed of a quality more friendly and beneficial to the intestines than "Chamomile flowers." This herb was well known to the Greeks, who thought it had an odour like that of apples, and therefore they named it "Earth Apple," from two of their words, kamai—on the ground, and melon—an apple. Fri, 18 Jun 2010 12:53:22 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/cherry.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/cherry.htm The wild Cherry (Cerasus), which occurs of two distinct kinds, has by budding and grafting begotten most of our finest garden fruits of its genus. The name Cerasus was derived from Kerasous, a city of Cappadocia, where the fruit was plentiful. According to Pliny, Cherries were first brought to Rome by Lucullus after his great victory over Mithridates, 89 B.C. Fri, 18 Jun 2010 13:02:47 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/chervil.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/chervil.htm "There is found," writes Parkinson, "during June and July, in almost every English hedge, a certain plant called Choerophyllum, in show very like unto Hemlockes, of a good and pleasant smell and taste, which have caused us to term it 'Sweet Chervill.'" Fri, 18 Jun 2010 13:08:26 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/chestnut.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/chestnut.htm Ever since 1633 the Horse Chestnut tree has grown and flourished in England, having been brought at first from the mountains of Northern Asia. For the most part the Chestnut tree is rather known and admired for its wealth of shade, its large handsome floral spikes of creamy, pink-tinted blossom, and its white, soft wood, than supposed to exercise useful medicinal properties. Sat, 19 Jun 2010 11:32:35 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/chickweed.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/chickweed.htm Subsequently, the chickweed herb, when given in quite small doses of tincture, or fresh juice, or infusion, has been found by its affinity to remove the train of symptoms just described, and to act most reliably in curing obstinate rheumatism allied therewith. Sat, 19 Jun 2010 11:38:53 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/christmas_rose.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/christmas_rose.htm The Christmas Rose or Black Hellebore, a native of Southern Europe, and belonging to the Ranunculus order, is grown commonly in our gardens for the sake of its showy white flowers, conspicuous in winter, from December to February. The root has been famous since time immemorial as a remedy for insanity. From its abundant growth in the Grecian island of Anticyra arose the proverb: Naviget Anticyram—"Take a voyage to Anticyra," as applied by way of advice to a man who has lost his reason. Mon, 28 Jun 2010 12:22:00 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/cinnamon.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/cinnamon.htm Cinnamon possesses positive medicinal as well as aromatic virtues. What we employ as this spice consists of the inner bark of shoots from the stocks of a Ceylon tree, first cultivated here in 1768. Mon, 28 Jun 2010 12:22:17 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/clover.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/clover.htm The word clover is a corruption of the Latin clava a club; and the "clubs" on our playing cards are representations of clover leaves; whilst in France the same black suit is called trefle. Mon, 28 Jun 2010 12:22:00 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/cloves.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/cloves.htm Cloves (from clavus, a nail), also found in the kitchen spice box, and owning certain medicinal resources of a cordial sort, which are quickly available, belong to the Myrtle family of plants, and are the unexpanded flower buds of an aromatic tree (Caryophyllus), cultivated at Penang and elsewhere. Mon, 28 Jun 2010 12:43:42 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/club_moss.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/club_moss.htm Though not generally thought worth more than a passing notice, or to possess any claims of a medicinal sort, yet the Club Moss, which is of common growth in Great Britain on heaths and hilly pastures, exerts by its spores very remarkable curative effects, and therefore it should be favourably regarded as a Herbal Simple. It is exclusively due to homoeopathic provings and practice, that the Lycopodium clavatum (Club Moss) takes an important position amongst the most curative vegetable remedies of the present day. Sat, 03 Jul 2010 17:47:41 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/coltsfoot.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/coltsfoot.htm The Coltsfoot, which grows abundantly throughout England in places of moist, heavy soil, especially along the sides of our raised railway banks, has been justly termed "nature's best herb for the lungs, and her most eminent thoracic." Sat, 03 Jul 2010 17:54:55 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/comfrey.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/comfrey.htm The Comfrey of our river banks, and moist watery places, is the Consound, or Knit-back, or Bone-set, and Blackwort of country folk; and the old Symphytumof Dioscorides. It has derived these names from the consolidating and vulnerary qualities attributed to the plant, from confirmo, to strengthen together, or the French, comfrie. Sat, 03 Jul 2010 17:59:37 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/coriander.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/coriander.htm Coriander comfits, sold by the confectioner as admirably warming to the stomach, and corrective of flatulence, consist of small aromatic seeds coated with white sugar. These are produced by the Coriander, an umbelliferous herb cultivated in England from early times for medicinal and culinary uses, though introduced at first from the Mediterranean. Sat, 03 Jul 2010 18:06:55 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/cowslip.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/cowslip.htm The tiny people were then supposed to be fond of nestling in the drooping bells of Cowslips, and hence the flowers were called fairy cups; and, in accordance with the doctrine of signatures, they were thought effective for removing freckles from the face. Sat, 03 Jul 2010 18:14:25 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/cress.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/cress.htm It includes "Land Cress (formerly dedicated to St. Barbara); Broad-leaved Cress (or the Poor-man's pepper); Penny Cress (thlapsus); Garden, or Town Cress; and the well known edible Water Cress." Formerly the Greeks attached much value to the whole order of Cresses, which they thought very beneficial to the brain Sat, 03 Jul 2010 18:18:02 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/cumin.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/cumin.htm The ancients were acquainted with the power of Cumin to cause the human countenance to become pallid; and as a medicine the herb is well calculated to cure such pallor of the face when occurring as an illness. Sat, 03 Jul 2010 19:21:33 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/currants.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/currants.htm The original Currants in times past were small grapes, grown in Greece at Zante, near Corinth, and termed Corinthians; then they became Corantes, and eventually Currants. Sat, 03 Jul 2010 19:31:28 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/daffodil.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/daffodil.htm The chemical principles of the Daffodil have not been investigated; but a yellow volatile oil of disagreeable odour, and a brown colouring matter, have been got from the flowers. Arabians commended this oil to be applied for curing baldness, and for stimulating the sexual organs. Sun, 11 Jul 2010 03:15:09 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/daisy.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/daisy.htm Daisies were said of old to be under the dominion of Venus, and later on they were dedicated to St. Margaret of Cortona. Therefore they were reputed good for the special-illnesses of females. Sun, 11 Jul 2010 03:27:53 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/dandelion.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/dandelion.htm The medicinal tincture of Dandelion is made from the entire plant, gathered in summer, employing proof spirit which dissolves also the resinous parts not soluble in water. From ten to fifteen drops of this tincture may be taken with a spoonful of water three times in the day. Sun, 11 Jul 2010 03:32:21 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/date.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/date.htm Dates are the most wholesome and nourishing of all our imported fruits. Children especially appreciate their luscious sweetness, as afforded by an abundant sugar which is easily digested, and which quickly repairs waste of heat and fat. With such a view, likewise, doctors now advise dates for consumptive patients; also because they soothe an irritable chest, and promote expectoration; whilst, furthermore, they prevent costiveness. Dates are the fruit of the Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera), or, Tree of Life. Sun, 19 Sep 2010 18:05:05 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/deadly_nightshade_belladonna.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/deadly_nightshade_belladonna.htm The Deadly Nightshade or Belladonna berries (in size like small cherries) are of a rich purplish black hue, and possess most dangerously narcotic properties. They are medicinally useful, but so deadly that only the skilled hands of the apothecary should attempt to manipulate them Sun, 11 Jul 2010 03:40:22 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/dill.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/dill.htm Cordial waters distilled from the fragrant herb called Dill are, as every mother and monthly nurse well know, a sovereign remedy for wind in the infant; whilst they serve equally well to correct flatulence in the grown up "gourmet." This highly scented plant (Anethum graveolens) is of Asiatic origin, growing wild also in some parts of England, and commonly cultivated in our gardens for kitchen or medicinal uses. Sun, 11 Jul 2010 03:48:48 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/dock.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/dock.htm The term Dock is botanically a noun of multitude, meaning originally a bundle of hemp, and corresponding to a similar word signifying a flock. It became in early times applied to a wide-spread tribe of broad-leaved wayside weeds. They all belong to the botanical order of Polygonaceoe, or "many kneed" plants, because, like the wife of Yankee Doodle, famous in song, they are "double-jointed. Sun, 11 Jul 2010 03:59:39 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/elder.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/elder.htm The Tree-Mother has been thought to inhabit the elder bush; and it has been long believed that refuge may be safely taken under an Elder tree in a thunderstorm, because the cross was made therefrom, and so the lightning never strikes it. Elder was formerly buried with a corpse to protect it from witches, and even now at a funeral the driver of the hearse commonly has his whip handle made of Elder wood. A cross made of the wood if affixed to cow-houses and stables was supposed to protect cattle from all possible harm. Sun, 11 Jul 2010 09:26:34 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/elecampane.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/elecampane.htm Elecampane is a tall, stout, downy plant, from three to five feet high, of the Composite order, with broad leaves, and bright, yellow flowers. Campania is the original source of the plant (Enula campana), which is called also Elf-wort, and Elf-dock. Sat, 05 Mar 2011 07:18:34 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/epilogue_the_olitory.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/epilogue_the_olitory.htm In olden times the Olitory, or Herb-garden, formed an important annex to all demesnes having any pretensions to completeness, and was under "My Lady's" special charge. In fact, the culture and preparing of Herbal Simples formed a part of every lady's education. Sun, 11 Jul 2010 09:31:57 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/eyebright.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/eyebright.htm Found in abundance in summer time on our heaths, and on mountains near the sea, this delicate little plant, the Euphrasia officinalis or eyebright, has been famous from earliest times for restoring and preserving the eyesight. The Greeks named the herb originally from the linnet, which first made use of the leaf for clearing its vision, and which passed on the knowledge to mankind. The Greek word, euphrosunee, signifies joy and gladness. Sun, 11 Jul 2010 09:43:37 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/fennel.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/fennel.htm Pliny also asserts that the ophidia, when they cast their skins, have recourse to to the Fennel Plantt for restoring their sight. Others have averred that serpents wax young again by eating of the herb; "Wherefore the use of Fennel is very meet for aged folk." Sun, 11 Jul 2010 09:51:38 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/fern.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/fern.htm Only some few of our native Ferns are known to possess medicinal virtues, though they may all be happily pronounced devoid of poisonous or deleterious properties. As curative simples, a brief consideration will be given here to the common male and female Ferns, the Royal Fern, the Hart's Tongue, the Maidenhair, the common Polypody, the Spleenwort, and the Wall Rue. Sun, 11 Jul 2010 09:55:52 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/feverfew.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/feverfew.htm The herb Feverfew is strengthening to the stomach, preventing hysteria and promoting the monthly functions of women. It is much used by country mediciners, though insufficiently esteemed by the doctors of to-day. Sun, 11 Jul 2010 10:02:45 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/fig.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/fig.htm Bacchus was thought to have acquired his vigour and corpulency from eating Figs, such as the Romans gave to professed wrestlers and champions for strength and good sustenance. Sun, 11 Jul 2010 10:10:29 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/flag.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/flag.htm The root of the Blue Flag, "Dragon Flower," or "Dagger Flower," contains chemically an "oleo-resin," which is purgative to the liver in material doses, and specially alleviative against bilious sickness when taken of much reduced strength by reason of its acting as a similar. Sun, 11 Jul 2010 10:15:26 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/flax.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/flax.htm The Flax seeds ate very rich in linseed oil, after expressing which, the refuse is oil-cake, a well-known fattening food for cattle. The oil exists chiefly in the outer skins of the seeds, and is easily extracted by boiling water, as in the making a linseed poultice. Sun, 11 Jul 2010 10:22:24 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/foxglove.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/foxglove.htm Chemically, the Foxglove contains a dangerous, active, medicinal principle digitalin, which acts powerfully on the heart, and on the kidneys, but this should never be given in any preparation of the plant except under medical guidance, and then only with much caution. Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:46:16 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/fumitory.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/fumitory.htm The common Fumitory (Fumaria officinalis) is a small grey-green plant, bearing well known little flowers, rose coloured, and tipped with purple, whilst standing erect in every cornfield, vineyard, or such-like manured place throughout Great Britain. Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:49:23 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/garlic.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/garlic.htm The Garlic (Allium sativum), Skorodon of the Greeks, which was first cultivated in English gardens in 1540, takes its name, from gar, a spear; and leac, a plant, either because of its sharp tapering leaves, or perhaps as "the war plant," by reason of its nutritive and stimulating qualities for those who do battle. Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:59:00 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/ginger.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/ginger.htm Ginger (Zingiberis radix) is the root-stock of a plant grown in the East and West Indies, and is scraped before importation. Its odour is due to an essential oil, and its pungent hot taste to a resin. It was known in Queen Elizabeth's reign, having been introduced by the Dutch about 1566. Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:59:47 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/gooseberry.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/gooseberry.htm The Gooseberry (Ribes grossularia) gets its name from krüsbar, which signifies a cross, in allusion to the triple spine of the fruit or berry, which is commonly cruciform. This is a relic of its first floral days, preserved like the apron of the blacksmith at Persia, when he came to the throne. The term grossulariaimplies a resemblance of the fruit to grossuli, small unripe figs. Tue, 20 Jul 2010 01:03:16 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/goosefoot.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/goosefoot.htm Among Curative Simples, the Goosefoot, or Chenopod order of British plants, contributes two useful herbs, the Chenopodium bonus Henricus (Good King Henry), and the Chenopodium vulvaria (Stinking Goosefoot). Tue, 20 Jul 2010 01:08:47 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/goosegrass.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/goosegrass.htm The medicinal Goosegrass (Galium aparine), which is a highly useful curative Simple, springs up luxuriantly about fields and waste places in most English districts. It belongs to the Rubiaceous order of plants, all of which have a root like madder, affording a red dye. Tue, 20 Jul 2010 01:19:18 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/goutweed.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/goutweed.htm A passing word should certainly be given to the Goutweed, or, Goatweed, among Herbal Simples. Goutweed is, though but little regarded, nevertheless, a common and troublesome garden weed, of the Umbelliferous tribe, and thought to possess certain curative virtues. Tue, 20 Jul 2010 01:24:35 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/grapes.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/grapes.htm Grapes, the luscious and refreshing fruit of the Vine, possess certain medicinal properties and virtues which give them a proper place among Herbal Simples. The name Vine comes from viere, to twist, being applied with reference to the twining habits of the parent stock; as likewise to "with," and "withy." Sat, 24 Jul 2010 04:56:00 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/grass.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/grass.htm Our abundant English grasses furnish nutritious herbage and farinaceous seeds, whilst their stems and leaves prove useful for textile purposes. Furthermore, some few of them possess distinctive medicinal virtues, with mucilaginous roots, and may be properly classed among Herbal Simples, including Vernal Grass, Couch Grass, and the Bearded Darnel. Sat, 24 Jul 2010 05:01:03 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/groundsel.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/groundsel.htm In the hands of Herbal Simplers the Groundsel formerly held high rank as a herb of power. An old herbal prescribes against toothache to "dig up Groundsel with a tool that hath no iron in it, and touch the tooth five times with the plant, then spit thrice after each touch, and the cure will be complete." Sat, 24 Jul 2010 05:09:05 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/hawthorn.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/hawthorn.htm The Hawthorn, or Whitethorn, is so welcome year by year as a harbinger of Summer, by showing its wealth of sweet-scented, milk-white blossoms, in our English hedgerows, that everyone rejoices when the Mayflower comes into bloom. Its brilliant haws, or fruit, later on are a botanical advance on the blackberry and wild raspberry, which belong to the same natural order. Sat, 24 Jul 2010 05:16:11 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/hemlock.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/hemlock.htm The Spotted Hemlock (Conium maculatum), is a plant well known to everyone familiar with our Herbal Simples. But it is so highly narcotic as a medicine, and yet withal so safely useful externally to allay pain, as well as to promote healing, that their outward remedial forms of application must not be overlooked among our serviceable herbs. Nevertheless, for internal administration, this herb lie altogether beyond the pale of domestic uses, except in the hands of a doctor. Sat, 24 Jul 2010 05:22:01 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/henbane.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/henbane.htm "These, the Henbane seeds, and the juice," says Gerard, "when taken internally, cause an unquiet sleep, like unto the sleep of drunkenness, which continueth long, and is deadly to the patient." Fri, 20 Aug 2010 23:25:59 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/hop.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/hop.htm The Hop (Humulus lupulus) belongs to the Nettle tribe (Cannabineoe) of plants, and grows wild in our English hedges and copses; but then it bears only male flowers. When cultivated it produces the female catkins, or strobiles which are so well known as Hops, and are so largely used for brewing purposes. Sat, 21 Aug 2010 00:37:06 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/horehound.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/horehound.htm The Horehound or Marrubium was called by the Egyptian Priests the "Seed of Horus" or "the Bull's Blood" and "the Eye of the Star." It was a principal remedy in the Negro Caesar's Antidote for vegetable poisons. Sat, 21 Aug 2010 00:46:00 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/horse_radish.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/horse_radish.htm The Horse Radish of our gardens is a cultivated cruciferous plant of which the fresh root is eaten, when scraped, as a condiment to correct the richness of our national roast beef. Sat, 21 Aug 2010 00:52:59 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/house_leek.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/house_leek.htm The House Leek (Sempervivum tectorum), or "never dying" flower of our cottage roofs, which is commonly known also as Stone-crop, grows plentifully on walls and the tops of small buildings throughout Great Britain, in all country districts. Sat, 21 Aug 2010 00:58:59 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/hyssop.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/hyssop.htm The cultivated Hyssop, now of frequent occurrence in the herb-bed, and a favourite plant there because of its fragrance, belongs to the labiate order, Sat, 21 Aug 2010 01:03:34 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/ivy.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/ivy.htm By the ancients the Ivy was dedicated to Bacchus, whose statues were crowned with a wreath of the plant, under the name Kissos, and whose worshippers decorated themselves with its garlands. Sat, 21 Aug 2010 01:21:58 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/juniper.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/juniper.htm Juniper oil, used officinally, is distilled from the full-grown, unripe, green fruit. The Laplanders almost adore the tree, and they make a decoction of its ripe berries, when dried, to be drunk as tea, or coffee; whilst the Swedish peasantry prepare from the fresh berries a fermented beverage, which they drink cold, and an extract, which they eat with their bread for breakfast as we do butter. Thu, 09 Sep 2010 20:36:47 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/knapweed.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/knapweed.htm Black Knapweed, the Centaurea nigra, is a common tough-stemmed composite weed growing in our meadows and cornfields, being well known by its heads of dull purple flowers, with brown, or almost black scales of the outer floral encasement. Thu, 09 Sep 2010 20:40:58 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/lavender.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/lavender.htm The Lavender of our gardens, called also Lavender Spike, is a well-known sweet-smelling shrub, of the Labiate order. It grows wild in Spain, Piedmont, and the south of France, on waysides, mountains, and in barren places. The plant was propagated by slips, or cuttings, and has been cultivated in England since about 1568. Thu, 09 Sep 2010 21:04:43 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/leek.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/leek.htm The Leek (Allium porrium) bears an Anglo-Saxon name corrupted from Porleac, and it is also called the Porret, having been the Prason of the Greeks. It was first made use of in England during 1562. Thu, 09 Sep 2010 20:50:47 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/lemon.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/lemon.htm Prize-fighters refresh themselves with a fresh cut Lemon between the rounds when competing in the Ring. Hence has arisen the common saying, "Take a suck of the Lemon, and at him again." Thu, 09 Sep 2010 20:57:11 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/lentil.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/lentil.htm Among the leguminous plants which supply food for the invalid, and are endowed with certain qualifications for correcting the health, may be justly placed the Lentil, though we have to import it because our moist, cold climate is not favourable for its growth. Thu, 09 Sep 2010 21:11:08 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/lettuce.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/lettuce.htm Our garden Lettuce is a cultivated variety of the wild, or strong-scented Lettuce (Lactuca virosa), which grows, with prickly leaves, on banks and waysides in chalky districts throughout England and Wales. It belongs to the Composite order of plants, and contains the medicinal properties of the plant more actively than does the Lettuce produced for the kitchen. An older form of the name is Lettouce, which is still retained in Scotland. Thu, 09 Sep 2010 21:15:32 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/lily_of_the_valley.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/lily_of_the_valley.htm The Lily of the Valley grows wild in many of our English woods, and possesses special curative virtues, which give it, according to modern knowledge, a just place among Herbal Simples of repute. Thu, 09 Sep 2010 21:27:36 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/linden_flowers_lime_blossom.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/linden_flowers_lime_blossom.htm The Lime Trees sweet-smelling and highly fragrant linden flowers blossom in May, and are much sought after by bees, because abounding with honied nectar. Thu, 09 Sep 2010 21:34:25 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/liquorice.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/liquorice.htm The use of the Liquorice plant was first learnt by the Hellenes from the Scythians; and the root was named adipson, being thought from the time of Theophrastus to powerfully extinguish thirst. Thu, 09 Sep 2010 21:43:48 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/lupine.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/lupine.htm Allied to the Lentil as likewise a leguminous plant is the LUPINE, grown now only as an ornament to our flower beds, but formerly cultivated by the Romans as an article of food, and still capable of usefulness in this capacity for the invalid. Thu, 09 Sep 2010 21:50:07 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mallow.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mallow.htm All the Mallows (Malvaceoe) to the number of a thousand, agree in containing mucilage freely, and in possessing no unwholesome properties. Thu, 09 Sep 2010 21:54:55 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/marigold.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/marigold.htm In the Grete Herball this plant was called Mary Gowles. Three varieties of the Marigold exercise medicinal virtues which constitute them Herbal Simples of a useful nature—the Corn Marigold (Chrysanthemum segetum), found in our cornfields; the cultivated garden Marigold (Calendula officinalis); and the Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris), growing in moist grass lands, and popularly known as "Mareblobs." Sun, 19 Sep 2010 11:37:32 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/marjoram_sweet_marjoram.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/marjoram_sweet_marjoram.htm The common Marjoram (Origanum) grows frequently as a wild labiate plant on dry, bushy places, especially in chalky districts throughout Britain, the whole herb being fragrantly aromatic, and bearing flowers of a deep red colour. When cultivated in our kitchen gardens it becomes a favourite pot herb, as "Sweet Marjoram," with thin compact spikes, and more elliptical leaves than the wild Marjoram. Sun, 19 Sep 2010 11:46:38 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mercury_dogs_mercury.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mercury_dogs_mercury.htm The Mercuriallis perennis (Dog's Mercury) grows commonly in our hedges and ditches, occurring in large patches, with egg-shaped pointed leaves, square stems, and light green flowers, developed in spikes and it is decidedly poisonous, even when cooked. Sun, 19 Sep 2010 12:12:37 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mint.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mint.htm Pliny said: "As for the garden Mint, the very smell of it alone recovers and refreshes the spirits, as the taste stirs up the appetite for meat, which is the reason that it is so general in our acid sauces, wherein we are accustomed to dip our meat." Sun, 19 Sep 2010 12:17:46 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mistletoe.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mistletoe.htm The Mistletoe, which we all associate so happily with the festivities of Christmas, is an evergreen parasite, growing on the branches of deciduous trees, and penetrating with simple roots through the bark into the wood. Sun, 19 Sep 2010 12:23:06 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mountain_ash_rowan_tree.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mountain_ash_rowan_tree.htm The title Rowan tree has affixed itself to the Mountain Ash, as derived from the Norse, Runa (a charm), because it is supposed to have the power of averting the evil eye. Sun, 19 Sep 2010 12:28:26 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mugwort.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mugwort.htm Mugwort is named from Artemis the Greek goddess of the moon, and is also called Maidenwort or Motherwort (womb wort), being a plant beneficial to the womb. Sun, 19 Sep 2010 12:46:09 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mulberry.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mulberry.htm The Mulberry tree (Morus nigra) has been cultivated in England since the middle of the sixteenth century, being first planted at Sion house in 1548. It is now grown commonly in the garden, orchard, or paddock, where its well-known rich syrupy Mulberry fruit ripens in September. Sun, 19 Sep 2010 12:49:24 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mullein.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mullein.htm Flowers of Mullein in olive oil, when kept near the fire for several days in a corked bottle, form a remedy popular in Germany for frost-bites, bruises, and piles. Sun, 19 Sep 2010 12:58:17 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mushrooms.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mushrooms.htm In the context of curative Herbal Simples, notice will be bestowed here on two productions of the Mushroom nature—the Puff Ball and the Fly Agaric,—because of their medicinal qualities. Sun, 19 Sep 2010 13:08:39 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mustard.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/mustard.htm Now we have for commercial and officinal purposes two varieties of the cultivated plant, the black Mustard (Sinapis nigra), and the white Mustard (Brassica, or Sinapis alba). There is also a plain plant of the hedges, Hedge Mustard (Sisymbrium officinale) which is a mere rustic Simple. It is the black Mustard which yields by its seeds the condiment of our tables, and the pungent yellow flour which we employ for the familiar stimulating poultice, or sinapism. Sun, 19 Sep 2010 13:14:41 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/nettle.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/nettle.htm Actually as Nettles are to be found: the annual Urtica dioica, or true Stinging Nettle; the perennial Urtica urens (burning); the White Dead Nettle; the Archangel, or Yellow Weasel Snout, and the Purple Hedge Nettle. This title "Urtica" comes ab urendo, "from burning." Wed, 29 Sep 2010 00:46:10 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/nutmeg.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/nutmeg.htm The Banda, or Nutmeg Islands in the Indian Ocean, are twelve in number, and the strength of the Nutmeg in its season is said to overcome birds of Paradise so that they fall helplessly intoxicated. Wed, 29 Sep 2010 01:24:13 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/oat.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/oat.htm Physicians formerly recommended highly a diet-drink made from Oats, about which Hoffman wrote a treatise at the end of the seventeenth century; and Johannis de St. Catherine, who introduced the drink, lived by its use to a hundred years free from any disease. Wed, 29 Sep 2010 01:29:23 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/onion.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/onion.htm Seeming at first sight out of place among the lilies of the field, yet Garlic, the Leek, and the Onion are true members of that noble order, and may be correctly classified together with the favoured tribe, "Clothed more grandly than Solomon in all his glory." Wed, 29 Sep 2010 01:38:26 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/orange.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/orange.htm Though not of native British growth, except by way of a luxury in the gardens of the wealthy, yet the Orange is of such common use amongst all classes of our people as a dietetic fruit, when of the sweet China Orange sort, and for tonic medicinal purposes when of the bitter Seville Orange kind, that some consideration may be fairly accorded to the orange as a Curative Simple in these pages. Wed, 29 Sep 2010 01:50:30 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/orchid.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/orchid.htm Our common English Orchids are the "Early Purple," which is abundant in our woods and pastures; the "Meadow Orchis"; and the "Spotted Orchis" of our heaths and commons. Less frequent are the "Bee Orchis," the "Butterfly Orchis," "Lady's Tresses," and the "Tway blade." Wed, 29 Sep 2010 01:56:43 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/parsley.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/parsley.htm Parsely is found in this country only as a cultivated plant, having been introduced into England from Sardinia in the sixteenth century. It is an umbelliferous herb, which has been long of garden growth for kitchen uses. The name was formerly spelt "Percely," and the herb was known as March, or Merich (in Anglo-Saxon, Merici). Thu, 28 Oct 2010 21:19:18 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/parsnip.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/parsnip.htm This cultivated Parsnip has been produced as a vegetable since Roman times. The roots furnish a good deal of starch, and are very nutritious for warming and fattening, but when long in the ground they are called in some places "Madnip," and are said to cause insanity. Thu, 28 Oct 2010 21:25:21 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/pea.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/pea.htm "Peas were brought from Holland, and were fit dainties for ladies, they came so far, and cost so dear." Thu, 28 Oct 2010 21:33:19 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/peach.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/peach.htm The Peach (Amygdabus Persica), the apple of Persia, began to be cultivated in England about 1562, or perhaps before then. Columella tells of this fatal gift conveyed treacherously to Egypt in the first century:-- "Apples, which most barbarous Persia sent, With native poison armed." Thu, 28 Oct 2010 21:43:02 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/pear.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/pear.htm The Pear, also called Pyrrie, belongs to the same natural order of plants (the Rosacoe) as the Apple. It is sometimes called the Pyerie, and when wild is so hard and austere as to bear the name of Choke-pear. It grows wild in Britain, and abundantly in France and Germany. Thu, 28 Oct 2010 21:50:06 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/pellitori.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/pellitori.htm A plant belonging to the order of Nettles, the Pellitory of the Wall, or Paritory--Parietaria, from the Latin parietes, walls--is a favourite Herbal Simple in many  rural districts. Thu, 28 Oct 2010 22:02:57 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/pennyroyal.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/pennyroyal.htm The Mint Pennyroyal (Mentha Pulegium) gets its name from the Latin puleium regium, because of its royal efficacy in destroying fleas (pulices). The French call this similarly, Pouliot. It grows on moist heaths and pastures, and by the margins of brooks, being cultivated further in our herb gardens, for kitchen and market uses. Thu, 28 Oct 2010 22:10:10 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/pepper.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/pepper.htm Black pepper is said to ward off evil and in the Middle Ages, was burned like incense to protect from the plague. Thu, 28 Oct 2010 22:10:14 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/peppermint.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/peppermint.htm The Roman housewives made a paste of the Peppermint with honey, which they esteemed highly, partaking of it to sweeten their breath, and to conceal their passion for wine at a time when the law punished with death every woman convicted of quaffing the ruby seductive liquor Thu, 28 Oct 2010 22:19:01 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/periwinkle.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/periwinkle.htm This periwinkle name has been derived either from pervincire, to bind closely, or from pervincere, to overcome. Lord Bacon observes that it was common in his time for persons to wear bands of green Periwinkle about the calf of the leg to prevent cramp. In Germany this plant is the emblem of immortality. Fri, 29 Oct 2010 02:16:21 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/pimento.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/pimento.htm All-Spice (Pimento) is another common occupant of the domestic spice box. It is popular as a warming cordial, of a sweet odour, and a grateful aromatic taste; but being a native of South America, grows with us only as a stove plant. Fri, 29 Oct 2010 02:22:22 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/pimpernel.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/pimpernel.htm The Pimpernel - "Poor Man's Weather Glass" or "Shepherd's Dial," is a very well-known and favourite little flower, of brilliant scarlet hue, expanding only in bright weather, and closing its petals at two o'clock in the day. Fri, 29 Oct 2010 02:28:03 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/pink.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/pink.htm The Clove Pink, or Carnation of our gardens, though found apparently wild on old castle walls in England, is a naturalised flower in this country. It is, botanically, the Dianthus Caryophyllus, being so named as anthos, the flower, dios, of Jupiter: whilst redolent of Caryophylli, Cloves. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:35:34 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/plantain.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/plantain.htm The Plantains (Plantaginacecoe), from planta, the sole of the foot, are humble plants, well known as weeds in fields and by roadsides, having ribbed leaves and spikes of flowers conspicuous by their long stamens. As Herbal Simples, the Greater Plantain, the Ribwort Plantain, and the Water Plantain, are to be specially considered. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:45:01 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/poppy.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/poppy.htm The Scarlet Poppy of our cornfields (Papaver Rhoeas) is one of the most brilliant and familiar of English wild flowers, being strikingly conspicuous as a weed by its blossoms rich in scarlet petals, which are black at the base. The title Papaver has been derived from pap, a soft food given to young infants, in which it was at one time customary to boil Poppy seeds for the purpose of inducing sleep. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:55:58 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/potato.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/potato.htm Our invaluable Potato, which enters so largely into the dietary of all classes, belongs to the Nightshade tribe of  dangerous plants, though termed "solanaceous" as a natural order because of the sedative properties which its several genera exercise to lull pain. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 01:02:00 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/primrose.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/primrose.htm Medicinally the primrose possesses similar curative attributes, though in a lesser degree, to those of the Cowslip. Both the root and the flowers contain a volatile oil, and "primulin" which is identical with mannite: whilst the acrid principle is "saponin." Alfred Austin, Poet Laureate, teaches to "make healing salve with early Primroses." Wed, 01 Dec 2010 01:11:57 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/quince.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/quince.htm The Quince may well be included among remedial Herbal Simples because of the virtues possessed by the seeds within the fruit. The tree is a native of Persia and Crete; bearing a pear-shaped fruit, golden yellow when gathered, and with five cells in it, each containing twelve closely packed seeds. These are mucilaginous when unbroken, and afford the taste of bitter almonds. When immersed in water they swell up considerably, and the mucilage will yield salts of lime with albumen. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 01:17:57 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/radish.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/radish.htm Radishes were celebrated by Dioscorides and Pliny as above all roots whatsoever, insomuch, that in the Delphic temple there was a Radish of solid gold, raphanus ex auro dicatus: and Moschinus wrote a whole volume in their praise; but Hippocrates condemned them as vitiosas, innatantes, acoegre concoctiles. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 01:23:01 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/ragworth.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/ragworth.htm The term Ragwort, or Ragweed, is a corruption of Ragewort, as expressing its supposed stimulating effects on the sexual organs. For the same reason the pommes d'amour (Love Apples, or Tomatoes) are sometimes called Rage apples. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 01:37:18 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/raspberry.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/raspberry.htm Raspberry is a cool magical ingredient, giving two important components - the sexy fruit, and the plant itself, which is a tough survivor. Raspberry lends itself to a huge variety of love spells, healing spells and all manner of energy magic potions.  Wed, 01 Dec 2010 01:41:20 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/rhubarb.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/rhubarb.htm Our Garden Rhubarb is a true Dock, and belongs to the "many-kneed," buckwheat order of plants. Its brilliant colouring is due to varying states of its natural pigment (chlorophyll), in combination with oxygen. For culinary purposes the stalk, or petiole of the broad leaf, is used. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 01:47:05 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/rice.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/rice.htm The custom of throwing a shower of Rice after and over a newly married couple is very old, though wheat was at first the chosen grain as an augury of plenty. The bride wore a garland of ears of corn in the time of Henry the Eighth. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 01:53:40 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/rose.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/rose.htm Certain curative properties are possessed both by the Briar Rose, or wild Dog Rose of our country hedges, and by the cultivated varieties of this queen of flowers in our Roseries. The word Rose means red, from the Greek rodon, connected also with rota, a wheel, which resembles the outline of a Rose. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 02:01:32 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/rosemary.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/rosemary.htm It was usual to burn Rosemary in the chambers of the sick, just as was formerly done with frankincense, which gave the Greeks occasion to call the Rosemary Libanotis. In the French language of flowers this herb represents the power of rekindling lost energy. "The flowers of Rosemary," says an old author, "made up into plates (lozenges), with sugar, and eaten, comfort the heart, and make it merry, quicken the spirits, and make them more lively." Wed, 01 Dec 2010 07:31:19 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/rue.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/rue.htm This herb was further termed of old "Herb of Grace" as well as "Serving men's joy," because of the multiplicity of common ailments which it was warranted to cure. Rue constituted a chief ingredient of the famous antidote of Mithridates to poisons, the formula of which was found by Pompey in the satchel of the conquered King. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 07:35:30 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/rush.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/rush.htm The true Rushes (Juncaceoe) include the Soft Rush (effusus); the Hard Rush (glaucus); and the Common Rush (conglomeratus). The Bulrush (Pool Rush) is a Sedge; the Club Rush is a Typha; and the flowering Rush, a Butomus. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 07:45:20 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/saffron.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/saffron.htm The fabled origin of the Saffron plant ran thus. A certain young man named Crocus went to play at quoits in a field with Mercurie, when the quoit of his companion happened by misfortune to hit him on the head, whereby, before long, he died, to the great sorrow of  his friends. Finally, in the place where he had bled, Saffron was found to be growing: whereupon, the people, seeing the colour of the chine as it stood, adjusted it to come of the blood of Crocus, and therefore they gave it his name. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 07:45:21 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/sage.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/sage.htm A well-known monkish line about it ran to this effect: Cur moriatur homo cui Salvia crescit in horto? "Why should a man die whilst Sage grows in his garden?" And even at this time, in many parts of England, the following piece of advice is carefully adopted every year: "He that would live for aye Must eat Sage in May." Wed, 01 Dec 2010 07:45:25 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/samphire.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/samphire.htm Samphire, of the true sort, is a herb difficult to be gathered, because it grows only out of the crevices of lofty perpendicular rocks which cannot be easily scaled. This genuine Samphire (Crithmum maritimum) is a small plant, bearing yellow flowers in circular umbels on the tops of the stalks, which flowers are followed by seeds like those of the Fennel, but larger. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 07:51:55 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/savin.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/savin.htm Savin, the Juniper Savin (Sabina), or Saffern, was known of old as the "Devil's Tree," and the "Magician's Cypress," because much affected by witches and sorcerers when working their spells. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 07:51:56 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/schalot.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/schalot.htm The Schalot, or Eschalotte, is another variety of the onion tribe, which was introduced into England by the Crusaders, who found it growing at Ascalon. And Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) are an ever green perennial herb of the onion tribe, having only a mild, alliaceous flavour. Epicures consider the Schalot to be the best seasoning for beef steaks, either by taking the actual bulb, or by rubbing the plates therewith. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 07:51:57 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/scurvy_grass.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/scurvy_grass.htm This Scurvy Grass has the botanical name Cochlearia, or, in English, Spoonwort, so named from its leaves resembling in shape the bowl of an old-fashioned spoon. It is supposed to be the famous Herba Britannica of the ancients. Our great navigators have borne unanimous testimony to its never-failing value in scurvy; and it has been justly noticed that the plant grows most plentifully in altitudes where scurvy is specially troublesome and frequent. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 07:52:57 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/sea_holly.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/sea_holly.htm The Sea Holly (Eryngium maritimum), or Sea Hulver, is a well-known prickly sea-green plant, growing in the sand on many parts of our coasts, or on stony ground, with stiff leaves, and roots which run to a great length among the sand, whilst charged with a sweetish juice. A manufactory for making candied roots of the Sea Holly was established at Colchester, by Robert Burton, an apothecary, in the seventeenth century, as they were considered both antiscorbutic, and excellent for health. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 07:53:57 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/sea_weed.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/sea_weed.htm Of the more ordinary Sea Weeds (cryptogamous, or flowerless plants) some few are edible, though sparingly nutritious, whilst curative and medicinal virtues are attributed to several others, as Irish Moss, Scotch Dulse, Sea Tang, and the Bladderwrack. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 07:54:57 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/selfheal.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/selfheal.htm Several Herbal Simples go by the name of Selfheal among our wild hedge plants, more especially the Sanicle, the common Prunella, and the Bugle. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 07:55:57 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/shepherds_purse.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/shepherds_purse.htm The small Shepherd's Purse (Bursa Capsella Pastoris) is one of the most common of wayside English weeds. The name Capsella signifies a little box, in allusion to the seed pods. It is a Cruciferous plant, made familiar by the diminutive pouches, or flattened pods at the end of its branching stems. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 07:56:57 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/silverweed.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/silverweed.htm Country folk often call it Cramp Weed: but it is more generally known as Goose Tansy, or Goose Gray, because it is a spurious Tansy, fit only for a goose; or, perhaps, because eaten by geese. Other names for the herb are Silvery Cinquefoil, and Moorgrass. It occurs especially on clay soils, being recognised by its pinnate white silvery leaves, and its conspicuous golden flowers. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 07:56:57 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/skullcap.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/skullcap.htm A useful medicinal tincture (H.) is made from the Skullcap (Scutellaria), which is a Labiate plant of frequent growth on the banks of our rivers and ponds, having bright blue flowers, with a tube longer than the calyx. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 07:57:57 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/sloe.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/sloe.htm The term Sloe, or Sla, means not the fruit but the hard trunk, being connected with a verb signifying to slay, or strike, probably because the wood of this tree was used as a flail, and nowadays makes a bludgeon. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 07:57:58 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/snake_root.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/snake_root.htm Snake Root, Echinacea or Purple Coneflower is a North American perennial that is indigenous to the central plains where it grows on road banks, prairies, fields and in dry, open woods; it  belongs to the Aster, or Daisy family. It is called snake root because it grows from a thick black root that Indians used to treat snake bites. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 07:57:59 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/soapworth.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/soapworth.htm The Soapworth root has a sweetish bitter taste, but no odour. It contains resin and mucilage, in addition to saponin, which is its leading principle, and by virtue of which decoctions of the root produce a soapy froth. A similar soapy quality is also observed in the leaves, so much so that they have been used by mendicant monks as a substitute for soap in washing their clothes. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 08:07:59 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/solomons_seal.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/solomons_seal.htm The Arabs understand by Solomon's Seal the figure of a six-pointed star, formed by two equilateral triangles intersecting each other, as frequently mentioned in Oriental tales. Gerard maintains that the name, Sigillum Solomunis, was given to the root "partly because it bears marks something like the stamp of a seal, but still more because of the virtue the root hath in sealing or healing up green wounds, broken bones, and such like, being stamp't and laid thereon." Wed, 01 Dec 2010 08:08:09 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/southernwood.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/southernwood.htm Southernwood, or Southern Wormwood is the Artemisia Abrotanum, a Composite plant of the Wormwood tribe, commonly known as "Old Man." Pliny explains that this title is borne because of the plant being a sexual restorative to those in advanced years. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 09:58:03 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/spearmint.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/spearmint.htm The Spearmint (Mentha viridis) is found growing apparently wild in England, but is probably not an indigenous herb. It occurs in watery places, and on the banks of rivers, such as the Thames, and the Exe. If used externally, its strong decoction will heal chaps and indolent eruptions. Wed, 15 Dec 2010 23:40:13 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/speedwell.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/speedwell.htm This little plant, with its exquisite flowers of celestial blue, grows most familiarly in our hedgerows throughout the Spring, and early Summer. Its brilliant, gemlike blossoms show a border of pale purple, or delicate violet, marked with deeper veins or streaks. But the lovely circlet of petals is most fragile, and falls off at a touch; whence are derived the names Speedwell, Farewell, Good-bye, and Forget-me-not. Wed, 15 Dec 2010 23:43:03 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/spinach.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/spinach.htm Spinach (Lapathum hortense) is a Persian plant which has been cultivated in our gardens for about two hundred years; and considerably longer on the Continent. Some say the Spinach was originally brought from Spain. It was produced by monks in France at the middle of the 14th century. Wed, 15 Dec 2010 23:45:40 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/spindle_tree.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/spindle_tree.htm During the autumn, in our woody hedgerows a shrub becomes very conspicuous by bearing numerous rose-coloured floral capsules, strikingly brilliant, each with a scarlet and orange-coloured centre. This is the Spindle Tree (Euonymus), so called because it furnishes wood for spindles, or skewers. Wed, 15 Dec 2010 23:49:19 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/spurge.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/spurge.htm Conspicuous in Summer by their golden green leaves, and their striking epergnes of bright emerald blossoms, the Wood Spurge, and the Petty Spurge, adorn our woodlands and gardens commonly and very remarkably. Fri, 03 Dec 2010 10:01:37 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/st_johns_wort.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/st_johns_wort.htm The name Hypericum is derived from the two Greek words, huper eikon, "over an apparition," because of its supposed power to exorcise evil spirits, or influences; whence it was also formerly called Fuga doemoniorum, "the Devil's Scourge," "the Grace of God," "the Lord God's Wonder Plant." and some other names of a like import, probably too, because found to be of curative use against insanity. Wed, 15 Dec 2010 23:53:33 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/stitchwort.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/stitchwort.htm The Stitchworts, greater and less (Stellaria holostea), grow very abundantly as herbal weeds in all our dry hedges and woods, having tough stems which run closely together, and small white star-like (stellaria) blossoms. Thu, 16 Dec 2010 00:03:41 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/strawberry_2.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/strawberry_2.htm "Strawberry" is from the Anglo-Saxon Strowberige, of which the first syllable refers to anything strewn. The wild woodland Strawberry (Fragaria vesca) is the progenitor of our highly cultivated and delicious fruit. This little hedgerow and sylvan plant has a root which is very astringent, so that when held in the mouth it will stay any flow of blood from the nostrils. Thu, 16 Dec 2010 14:54:38 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/succory.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/succory.htm The Wild Succory (Cichorium intybus) is a common roadside English plant, white or blue, belonging to the Composite order, and called also Turnsole, because it always turns its flowers towards the sun. Thu, 16 Dec 2010 15:02:04 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/sundew.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/sundew.htm The fresh juice of the Sundew herb contains malic acid in a free state, various salts, and a red colouring matter; also glucose, and a peculiar crystallisable acid. Cattle of the female gender are said to have their copulative instincts excited by eating even a small quantity of the plant. Thu, 16 Dec 2010 15:05:56 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/sunflower.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/sunflower.htm Golden Sunflowers are introduced at Rheims into the stained glass of an Apse window in the church of St. Remi, with the Virgin and St. John on either side of the Cross, the head of each being encircled with an aureole having a Sunflower inserted in its outer circle. The flowers are turned towards the Saviour on the Cross as towards their true Sun. Thu, 16 Dec 2010 15:08:24 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/tamarind.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/tamarind.htm The parent tree, Tamar Hindee, "Indian date," is of East, or West Indian growth; but the sweet pulpy jam containing shining stony seeds, and connected together by tough stringy fibres, may be readily obtained at the present time from the leading druggists, or the general provision merchant. It fulfils medicinal purposes which entitle it to high esteem as a Herbal Simple for use in the sick-room. Sun, 09 Jan 2011 20:18:34 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/tansy.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/tansy.htm The name Tansy is probably derived from the Greek word Athanasia which signifies immortality, either because it lasts so long in flower, or because it is so capital for preserving dead bodies from corruption. Tansy was said to have been given to Ganymede to make him immortal. Sun, 09 Jan 2011 20:29:00 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/tarragon.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/tarragon.htm The volatile essential oil of Tarragon is chemically identical with that of Anise, and it is found to be sexually stimulating. The word Tarragon means "a little dragon." Sun, 09 Jan 2011 20:33:10 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/thistle.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/thistle.htm As a class Thistles have been held sacred to Thor, because, say the old authors, receiving their bright colours from the lightning, and because protecting those who cultivate them from its destructive effects. Sun, 09 Jan 2011 20:44:34 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/thyme.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/thyme.htm The name Thyme is derived from the Greek thumos, as identical with the Latin fumus, smoke, having reference to the ancient use of Thyme in sacrifices, because of its fragrant odour; or, it may be, as signifying courage (thumos), which its cordial qualities inspire. With the Greeks Thyme was an emblem of bravery, and activity; also the ladies of chivalrous days embroidered on the scarves which they presented to their knights the device of a bee hovering about a spray of Thyme, as teaching the union of the amiable and the active. Fri, 04 Mar 2011 01:08:03 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/toadflax.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/toadflax.htm When used externally an infusion of Toadflax acts as an anodyne to subdue irritation of the skin, and it may be taken as a medicine to modify skin diseases. The fresh juice is attractive to flies, but at the same time it serves to poison them: so if it be mixed with milk, and placed where flies resort they will drink it and perish at the first sip. Fri, 04 Mar 2011 01:11:44 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/tomato.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/tomato.htm Belonging to the Solanums the Tomato (Lycopersicum) is a plant of Mexican origin. Its brilliant fruit was first known as Mala oethiopica, or the Apples of the Moors, and bearing the Italian designation Pomi dei Mori. This name was presently corrupted in the French to Pommes d'amour; and thence in English to the epithet Love Apples Fri, 04 Mar 2011 01:16:05 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/tormentil.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/tormentil.htm A decoction of Tormentil makes a capital gargle, and will heal ulcers of the mouth if used as a wash. If a piece of lint soaked therein be kept applied to warts, they will wither and disappear. Fri, 04 Mar 2011 01:20:59 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/turnip.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/turnip.htm When mashed, and mixed with bread and milk, the Turnip makes an excellent cleansing and stimulating poultice for indolent abscesses or sores. The Scotch eat small, yellow-rooted Turnips as we do radishes. "Tastes and Turnips proverbially differ." At Plymouth, and some other places, when a girl rejects a suitor, she is said to "give him turnips," probably with reference to his sickly pallor of disappointment. Fri, 04 Mar 2011 01:24:18 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/turpentine.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/turpentine.htm From our English Pines, if their stems be wounded, the oleo-resin known as Turpentine, can be procured. This is so truly a vegetable product, and so readily available for medical uses in every household, being withal so valuable for its remedial and curative virtues that no apology is needed for giving it notice as a Herbal Simple. Fri, 04 Mar 2011 01:32:36 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/valerian.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/valerian.htm The great Wild Valerian, or Heal-all (from valere, to be well), grows abundantly throughout this country in moist woods, and on the banks of streams. It is a Benedicta, or blessed herb, being dedicated to the Virgin Mary, as preservative against poisons. The roots of Valerian have been given from an early period with much success for hysterical affections, and for epileptic attacks induced by strong emotional excitement, as anger or fear. Sat, 05 Mar 2011 05:12:26 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/verbena.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/verbena.htm The Druids gathered Verbena with as much reverence as they paid to the Mistletoe. It was dedicated to Isis, the goddess of birth, and formed a famous ingredient in love philtres. Pliny saith: "They report that if the dining chamber be sprinkled with water in which the herb Verbena has been steeped, the guests will be the merrier." Sat, 05 Mar 2011 05:29:55 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/violet.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/violet.htm Also, the Sweet Violet is thought to possess admirable virtues as a cosmetic. Lightfoot gives a translation from a Highland recipe in Gaelic, for its use in this capacity, rendered thus: "Anoint thy face with goat's milk in which violets have been infused, and there is not a young prince upon earth who will not be charmed with thy beauty." Sat, 05 Mar 2011 05:42:32 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/vipers_bugloss.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/vipers_bugloss.htm The Viper's Bugloss is called botanically Echium, having been formerly considered antidotal to the bite of (Echis) a viper: and its seed was thought to resemble the reptile's head: Sat, 05 Mar 2011 05:49:21 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/wallflower.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/wallflower.htm There are two varieties of the cultivated Wallflower, the Yellow and the Red; those of a deep colour growing on old rockeries and similar places, are often termed Bloody Warriors, and Bleeding Heart. The double Wallflower has been produced for more than two centuries. If the flowers are steeped in oil for some weeks, they contribute thereto a stimulating warming property useful for friction to limbs which are rheumatic, or neuralgic. Sat, 05 Mar 2011 05:55:22 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/walnut.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/walnut.htm The leaves of the Walnut tree, when slightly rubbed, emit a rich aromatic odour, which renders them proof against the attacks of insects. Qualities of this odoriferous sort commended the tree to King Solomon, whose "garden of nuts" was clearly one of Walnuts, according to the Hebrew word eghoz. The longevity of the Walnut tree is very great. There is at Balaclava, in the Crimea, a Walnut tree believed to be a thousand years old. Sat, 12 Jun 2010 08:13:10 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/herbal_simples.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/herbal_simples.htm It may happen that one or another enquirer taking up this study will ask, to begin with, "What is a Herbal Simple?" The English word "Simple," composed of two Latin words, Singula plica (a single fold), means "Singleness," whether of material or purpose. From primitive times the term "Herbal Simple" has been applied to any homely curative remedy consisting of one ingredient only, and that of a vegetable nature. Many such a native medicine found favour and success with our single-minded forefathers, this being the "reverent simplicity of ancienter times." Sun, 10 Jun 2012 15:49:38 +0100 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/william_thomas_fernie_md.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/william_thomas_fernie_md.htm William Thomas Fernie MD was a physician in the late 19th and early 20th century and very little is known about him and his life that is easily discoverable. However, he left behind a lifetime's fascination and love with exploring not just the world of all things hard, but taking a greater view - comparing his knowledge with that what has been told over the ages, collecting ideas and trying to find connections between people, plants, animals and minerals.   Sat, 05 Mar 2011 06:06:56 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/wood_sorrel.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/wood_sorrel.htm In olden days the Monks named this pretty little woodland plant Alleluia, because it blossoms between Easter and Whitsuntide, when the Psalms--from the 113th to the 117th, inclusive--which end with the aspiration, "Hallelujah!" were sung. Sat, 05 Mar 2011 06:03:12 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/woodruff.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/woodruff.htm Its terminal syllable, "ruff," is derived from rofe, a wheel,--with the diminutive rouelle, a little wheel or rowel, like that of an ancient spur,--which the verticillate leaves of this Woodruff herb closely resemble. They serve to remind us also of good Queen Bess, and of the high, starched, old-fashioned ruff which she is shown to wear in her portraits. Sat, 05 Mar 2011 06:17:14 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/wormwood.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/wormwood.htm The Wormwood herb was formerly thought to possess the power of dispelling demons, and was thus associated with the ceremonials of St. John's Eve, owning the name, on the Continent, of St. John's Herb, or St. John's Girdle. Sat, 05 Mar 2011 06:33:10 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/woundwort.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/woundwort.htm The Hedge Woundwort was named by Gerard, Clown's all heal, or the Husbandman's Woundwort, because a countryman who had cut his hand to the bone with a scythe, healed the wound in seven days with this plant. Sat, 05 Mar 2011 06:50:04 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/yarrow.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/yarrow.htm Elspeth Reoch, in 1616, when tried for witchcraft, acknowledged to having employed the Yarrow in her incantations. She "plucked one herbe sitting on her right knee, and pulling it betwixt the mid-finger and thumbe, and saying: In nominee Patris, Filii, et Spiritus Sancti." By the yarrow plant so gathered, she was enabled to cure distempers, and to impart the faculty of prediction. Sat, 05 Mar 2011 07:11:44 +0000 https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/yew.htm https://magic-spells-and-potions.com/herbs/yew.htm Although the Yew--a Conifer--which is so thoroughly English a tree, is known to be highly poisonous as regards its leaves to the humans subject, and as concerning its loppings or half-dead branches, to oxen, horses, and asses, yet a medicinal tincture (H.) is made from the young shoots, which has distinct and curative uses. Both the Yew and the Ivy were called abiga, because causing abortion