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Secrets About Basil

Basil is described by Webster as being of the mint family used especially as

a seasoning. As you read this article you will find that basil is much more

than something we add to our spaghetti.

Basil's botanical name is Ocimium basilicum. It is a native of India, South

Asia, the Middle East and has been grown for thousands of years in the

Mediterranean region. Basil is found growing wild in tropical and

sub-tropical regions of the world.

There are many rituals and beliefs associated with basil. The French call

basil herb royale. In Italy it is a sign of love, romance and fine dining.

Jewish folklore suggests it adds strength while fasting. Basil was said to

be found in Christ's tomb after his resurrection. Greek Orthodox use basil

to prepare holy water and pots of basil are placed below church alters. In

Europe and India they place basil in the hands of the dead to ensure a safe

journey. The Egyptians and Grecians believe it will actually open the gates

of heaven for a person passing on.

Maybe all of us had better get out our garden tools, plant some basil and

begin to get prepared! Growing basil is something you definitely want to

try. Basil is an annual herb with a spicy, clove like fragrance and flavor.

Sow seeds indoors in the spring or plant seeds outside when all danger of

frost has passed and the ground is at least 50 degrees. Make sure you place

basil in a sheltered spot near your peppers and tomatoes to enhance growth.

Your plants should be placed 1 foot apart, 1/8 inch deep, in rich moist

light sandy soil, in full sun. Take care not to over water. Basil grows up

to 3 foot high and flowers in mid-to-late summer. Basil has a bushy

appearance with leafy stems. The leaves are very fragrant. Pick the leaves

when young. To encourage growth and a bushy plant, prune the main stem

leaving at least one node with two shoots. Do this before it flowers. Gather

the tops as the flowers open. To store basil, dry the leaves or brush the

leaves with oil and freeze.

In Growing & Using Basil, Ellen Ogden offers all the information you'll need

to grow, harvest, and cook with basil in all its varieties of flavor.

Whatever the basil you want to grow -- sweet, purple, opal, lemon, cinnamon,

anise, napoleatano, camphor, holy, or something more exotic -- the

information you need is right at your fingertips.

There are many varieties of basil: Sweet Basil, Bush Basil, Dark Opal Basil,

Lemon Basil, Holy Basil, Vero Basil, Purple Ruffle Basil and the list goes

on. Sweet Basil and Bush Basil are best choices for culinary use.

Basil has been known for many years as an herbal remedy for diseases of the

brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, and the bladder. It is primarily a digestive

and nervous system aid. Infuse basil and use it as a tea for indigestion.

Inhale basil tea to relieve cold symptoms. A tonic can be made by steeping

basil leaves in wine for several hours. Basil has uplifting, energizing,

anti-depressant properties.

The dried leaves are used as snuff to relieve headaches and colds. Basil is

also used as an insect repellent. Place a pot of basil outside your door to

repel flies. Use basil essential oil on a bee sting (use only one drop, more

than one drop may irritate the skin) or crush the leaves and rub on cuts,

insect bites and stings.

Some of the ailments basil can treat are: anxiety, concentration,

indigestion, respiratory problems, colic, tight coughs, asthma, nervous

headaches, migraines, muscle tension, nerve pain, memory loss, insomnia,

infection, a stuffy head, colds, sinusitis, sore throats, bronchial

congestion, appetite loss, gas, diarrhea, and nausea.

Use basil flowers and leaves for an invigorating bath. Basil adds luster to

hair: brunettes, add it to a rosemary rinse, blondes, add it to a chamomile

rinse. Combine basil essential oil with other essential oils to make

perfumes and toilet water. Blends well with: Bergamot, geranium, hyssop,

neoili, marjoram, melissa and lavender.

Basil is very aromatic. Add dried basil to potpourri and sachets. Lemon

basil and opal basil are good choices.

Use basil as an ornamental; not because of its beautiful flowers, but

because it has beautiful shiny leaves that can offset other flowering

plants.

Last but not least, basil is very compatible with tomatoes. Basil is known

as the tomato herb. Use sweet basil in your pesto and tomato sauces.

Sprinkle dried or cut fresh basil over salads and sliced tomatoes. Basil

also goes well in soups, salads, eggs, fish and meat dishes.

We would love to help you with your basil needs. Try our new basil hair

rinse or our basil toning body rub. Take a peek in our Herbal Kitchen. We

have quality dried basil and packets of herbal mixtures to make your own

herbal vinegars.

* The information in this article should not replace the advice of your

medical practitioner.

BENZOIN:

(Styrax benzoin) Benzoin is a shrubby tree with gray bark, simple leaves, and short racemes of small, fragrant, bell-shaped white flowers. The scented yellowish resin is thought to be created in response to injury, so it is tapped by making hatchet incisions in the trunk. The resin, called benzoin or gum benjamin, is used as incense, a fixative in perfumes, and is added to cosmetics to prevent fats turning rancid. The tree resin is used externally, diluted with water, as an antiseptic skin wash. Taken internally, it relieves intestinal gas and is antiseptic to the urinary tract. Take ten to twenty drops in water or tea four times a day. Put it in vaporizers or use it an an inhalant for bronchitis, and laryngitis. A simple method is to place it, along with a few drops of the oils of peppermint and eucalyptus, in a bowl of boiling hot water. Put your face as close to the bowl as you can and cover your head, and the bowl, with a towel. Inhale the steam. Tincture of bensoin is often added to salves as a preservative; (one ound of benzoin to about one and a half quarts of salve.) Benzoin is used in Aromatherapy but may cause allergic reactions.
Parts Used: Resin
Magical Uses: An herb of purification, burned in incense to sanctify an area. The scent is also used to attract business when combined with basil, peony or cinnamon. Dilute the essential oil and rub onto the body to increase your personal power. It awakens the conscious mind as well.
Burn to purify, protect, for prosperity, for astral projection or to increase mental powers.
Aromatherapy Uses: Asthma; Bronchitis; Laryngitis; Chills; Flu; Colic; Coughs; Itching; Arthritis; Colds; As a Sedative. Benzoin has been found to help retain skin elasticity. It is valuable in treating dry, cracked skin and is believed to be anti-depressant. Key Qualities: Warming; Energizing; Uplifting; Comforitn; Purifying; Elevating; Stimulant; Soothing; Antidepressant.

Baby’s Breath (Gypsophila elegans) is a skin toner.
2 part herb to 1 part water, boil and apply externally.
Since the flowers resemble sea foam, it is connected to the birth of the goddess, Venus and connected with love.

Balm, Sweet and Bee and Lemon (Melissa officinalis), also called Bergamot, causes sweating, so it is good to use in cases of the common cold and the flu.
1 ounce herb to 1 pint of water, drink as needed.
The scent of this plant is known to uplift the spirits.
Steep in wine and give to those you wish to have a continued friendship with.

Balm of Gilead (Commiphora Opobalsamum) is used to treat frostbite and sprains and lung problems.
Solid extract: 5 �?10 grains to 1 pint of water; 1 �?2 drams fluid extract once a day.
The leaves of this bush are used to mend broken hearts.

Balmony (Chelone Glabra), also called Snake Head, Turtle Head, Turtle-bloom, Shellflower, Chelone and Hummingbird Tree, is used to treat liver problems. The leaves are used to stimulate the appetite and treat worms, but may work as a laxative. Ointments are made from this plant to treat inflammation, ulceration and herpes.
1 �?2 fluid ounces externally; 1 �?2 drams internally.
Wrap the person's name up in this plant to cause the person to get sick. The root is carried to stop harassment.

Bamboo, Heavenly (Nandina domestica) slows the heart rate and breathing.
3 �?9 grains a day.

Bamboo, Lucky (Dracaena sanderiana) is questionably toxic.
The leaves from the stalks are considered lucky, as the name suggests.

Banaba (Lagerstroemia Speciosa), also called Queen's Flower, Pride of India and Queen's Crape Myrtle, reduces blood sugar.
8 - 48 milligrams of leaf before every meal up to 3 times a day.

Banana (Musa paradisiaca, Musa sapientum). The fruits are high in potassium, which keeps the body hydrated.
Because of their phallic shape, the fruits are used to excite lust.

Baneberry (Actaea spicata), also called Bugbane and Toadroot, is highly poisonous and is said to repel insects but draw toads. It was once used as an Antispasmodic.

Barberry (Berberis vulgaris), also called Pipperidge Bush, is a mild purgative and relieves constipation. Applied externally, it will remove warts.
Powdered bark: ¼ teaspoon up to three times a day; fluid extract: ½ - 1 dram once a day.
This plant is made into a powder to keep enemies away.

Barley (Hordeum distichon), also called Perlatum, is a good source of fiber.
1 �?4 ounces a day.

Basil (Ocymum basilium) has a calming smell that helps relieve headaches and the seeds have been implicated in aiding recovery from snakebites.
The smell of Basil will stimulate the mind.
This herb is used to attract sympathy, reconcile lovers, and attract business when placed in a cash drawer.

Bat-Faced Cigar Flower (Cuphea neubertii) is used to treat asthma.
1 gram once a day.

Bayberry (Myrica cerifera), also called Wax Myrtle, Myrica, Candle Berry and Tallow Shrub, is gargled to relieve throat pain.
Powder: 20 �?30 grains; 1 �?2 fluid ounces.

Be-Still (Aquilegia Canadensis), also called Wild Columbine, was used as a wash for Poison Ivy itch.
1 pound leaves to 1 pint of water, 10 drops a day.
The flowers are used for courage.

Bearberry (Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi) is used to treat urinary tract infections. It can become highly toxic, so use is restricted to one week.
1 ounce leaves to 1 pint boiling water once a day for up to 7 days.

Bedstraw, Lady’s (Galium verum), also called Maid's Hair, is often used to remove stones from the organs.
1 ounce drank as tea.
Place this herb under the bed to save a marriage.

Beech (Fagus sylvatica) is used as an expectorant and the tar is applied to the scalp for dandruff.
Extract tar from tree, use liberally.

Belladonna (Atropa belladonna), also called Deadly Nightshade, Devil’s Cherries, Devil's Herb, Great Morel and Dwayberry is highly poisonous, but was once used in ancient Italy to dilate the pupils of young ladies seeking love.
Powdered leaves: 1 �?2 grains; powdered root: 1 �?5 grains.
This plant is used in processes of spirit flight and to anoint amulets.

Bellwort (Uvularia perfoliata) is used externally to relax muscles.
½ ounce to liter of lard, apply externally.

Benne (Sesamum Indicum), also called Gingilly and Teel, is a laxative and helps with menstruation.
1 �?2 full-sized leaves to ½ pint of water once a day.

Betel (Piper betel) is a stimulant.
1 �?2 drams once a day.

Beth root (Trillium pendulum), also called Indian Shamrock, Birthroot, Lamb's Quarters, Indian Balm and Ground Lily is used to slow hemorrhages.
Powdered root: 1 dram up to three times a day.
The root of this plant is placed in the house to promote a harmonious family life.

Betony, Wood (Stachys Betonica, Betonica officinalis), also called Bishopswort, is used to calm hysteria. CAUTION: Avoid during pregnancy.
½ ounce once a day.
This plant is to be placed under the pillow to keep away nightmares and is also used in spells for justice. The flower is also used to prevent intoxication.

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), also called Whortles and Huckleberry, is used to help in eye problems and removes stones from the urinary tract.
Powdered berries: 4 grams; fluid extract: 60 grams to a liter of water, ½ - 1 dram a day.
The shrub is burnt for inspiration for gambling.

Bindweed, Greater (Convolvulus sepium), also called Bearbind and Morning Glory, is used as a purgative.
1 dram once a day.
When placed beside or under someone’s bed it will cause insomnia. It is a favored amulet for hikers, as well, because it protects from bears. Tie 3 knots in the vine and place under the bed for fidelity.

Bindweed, Jalap (Convolvulus Jalapa) is a “safe purge for children.�?BR>Powdered root: 2 �?30 grains once a day.
The root of this vine, called High John the Conqueror Root, is used to control others.

Birch (Betula alba) removes kidney stones and the oil is used for skin conditions.
Alcohol extract of leaves: 25 �?30 grams daily.
This plant is used in purification.

Bistort (Polygonurn Bistorta), also called Osterick, Oderwort, Snakeweed and Adderwort, is the strongest astringent, stops bleeding and is invaluable in use for diabetes.
Fluid extract from root: ½ - 1 dram a day; powdered root: ¼ - ½ dram as tea once a day.
This herb is used for those who wish to conceive. The bloom is used to calm haunting.

Bitter Root (Apocynum androsaemifolium), also called Dogsbane, and is used to slow down the heart.
5 �?15 grains a day.

Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), also called Deer’s Eye. The root is used to expel worms and the juice is used to ease earaches. It may stimulate the immune system.
1 teaspoon of root boiled and drank as tea in ¼ cup doses up to three times a day.

Black Haw (Viburnum opulus), also called Snowball Bush, Crampbark and European Cranberry Bush, is a safe way to
relieve breathing problems and pain, especially those associated with a period.
Shave bark from branches, 1 ounce drunk as tea up to 6 times a day.

Blackberry (Rubus villosus), also called Bramble, is a mild astringent.
Because of its thorns, this plant is placed near the home for protection.

Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) relieves symptoms of fatigue and lethargy.
Fluid extract: ½ - 1 dram a day.
This tree is sacred to Tubal Cain.

Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosis), also called Fucus, Kelp, Cutweed and Seatang, is used to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce weight loss.
Fluid extract: 1 �?2 drams once a day.
This plant is used for protection while at sea.

Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis) is toxic.
The scent of the flower is said to help one overcome deep emotional pain.
The blooms will destroy love.

Bloodroot (Sanguinaria Candensis), also called Indian Paint and Coon Root, is highly toxic, but was once used to treat lung problems. It is spread on the skin to shrink skin cancer cells. The root itself may be crushed to make a red ink.
The root of this plant is used to make magick inks and protects or brings marriages.

Bluebell (Scilla nutans) is poisonous and is not commonly used in medicine.
This plant is used to compel people to tell the truth.

Blueberry (Vaccinium stamineum) berries are a strong and popular antioxidant.
Take a bundle of the twigs and bind one end, making a whisk, then cense the area in a clockwise motion to drive off negative forces.

Bogbean (Menyanthes trifoliate), also called Buckbean, Water Trefoil and Marsh Clover, is used to treat joint pain and skin disease.
Fluid extract: 10 �?40 drops.
This plant is sacred to Robin Goodfellow.

Boldo (Peumus Boldus) is used to treat gonorrhea.
Fluid extract: ¼ - ½ dram once a day.

Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum), also called White Snake Root, is used, despite its name, to treat the flu.
Powdered herb: 10 �?20 grains; fluid extract: ½ - 1 dram.
This plant is used to cure unnatural illnesses.

Borage (Borago officinalis), when taken externally reduces swelling, but internally it lowers blood pressure and heart rate.
Fluid extract: ½ - 1 dram once a day.
This plant is carried when courage is needed, but can also be used to cause tranquility in a household.

Bromeliad (Guzmania lingulata) was once used as a mouthwash but is considered toxic.
This plant protects from domestic abuse.

Brooklime (Veronica beccabunga), also called Water Pimpernel, Becky Leaves, Cow Cress, Horse Cress, Housewell and Limewort, is a preventative for scurvy.
½ ounce drank as tea once a day.

Broom, Butchers (Ruscus aculeatus), also called Kneeholy, Jew's Myrtle and Sweet Broom, is used to treat stones, is an expectorant and heals broken bones.
One pint boiling water to 1 ounce of twigs once a day.
Broom is kept in the house to expel negative energies.

Bryony, Black (Tamus communis), also called Blackeye Root, and as the name suggests it is applied to remove bruises; it is highly toxic.
Fluid extract: 1 �?5 drops a day.
This root is commonly used as a substitute for the masculine Mandrake root.

Bryony, White (Bryonia dioica) is deadly.
This root is commonly used as a substitute for the feminine Mandrake root.

Bryony, Common (Bryonia dioica) is a violent purgative and highly toxic.
This vine protects from lightning.

Buckthorn, Alder (Rhamnus Frangula), also called Black Dogwood, is a laxative.
Fluid extract: ½ - 2 drams a day.

Buckthorn, Common (Rhamnaceae) is a laxative.
Fluid extract: ½ - 2 drams a day.
The leaves will help win court cases.

Buckwheat (Polygonum fagopyrum), also called Beechwheat, is used to restore the flow of milk for nursing mothers, but it is irritating to the skin; prevents hardening of the arteries.
½ ounce drank as tea up to 3 times a day.

Buffalobur (Solanum rostratum) is used for colon and bowel function.
1 gram a day.

Bugle, Common (Ajuga reptans), also called Carpenter's Herb, Sicklewort and Middle Comfrey, is given to those coughing up blood to stop the hemorrhaging.
1 ounce dried herb to 1 pint of water a day.

Bugle, Yellow (Ajuga chamaepitys), also called European Ground Pine, is a stimulant, helps in urinary problems and is also used to aid in menstruation.
1 ounce dried herb to 1 pint of water a day.

Bugleweed (Lycopus Virginicus), also called Water Bugle, Sweet Bugle, Virginian Water, Horehound and Gypsy Weed, is a sedative and mildly narcotic. It softens hardened arteries and regulates the heart.
1 ounce of dried herb to one pint of water, 10 �?30 drops as often as needed; dry dose: 1 �?4 grains.

Bugloss, Viper (Echium vulgare), also called Blueweed, is used to relieve headaches and swelling.
1 ounce fresh leaves in 1 cup water once a day.

Bullace (Prunus insititia) is a mild purgative and stops diarrhea, but the bark is used as an astringent.
½ ounce flower drank as tea .

Bunchberry (Cornus Canadensis) is used to suppress coughs and fever, stops fits and is used as an eyewash.
½ ounce as tea once a day.

Burdock (Arctium lappa), also called Lappa, Fox Clote, Thorny Burr and Beggars Buttons, is used as a blood purifier and is also applied to skin problems and strengthens the stomach; the plant stimulates liver functions.
1 ounce of herb to 1 ½ pint water, take 1 cup full up to 4 times a day.
Cut the roots into beads and wear them for protection from other people’s negative emotions. Place some of the burs in a box and give to the one you wish to be honest. The burs can also be added to shoes with nails to cripple a person.

Burnet, Great (Sanguisorba Officinalis) is used as an astringent and also to settle upset stomachs.
½ ounce root drank as tea once a day.

Burnet, Lesser (Pimpinella saxifrage) is used as an astringent and also promotes perspiration. CAUTION: Looks very similar to deadly Hemlock.
½ ounce fresh herb drank as tea once a day.

Burning Bush (Dictamnus albus), also called False or White Dittany, is reputed to help with epilepsy.
Powdered root: 4 �?8 grams.
The leaves are carried for luck.

Butter and Eggs (Linaria vulgaris) is a diuretic and also reduces fever.
½ - 2 ounces once a day.

Butterbur (Petasites vulgaris), also called Langwort, Umbrella Plant, Bog Rhubarb, Flapperdock, Blatterdock, Capdockin, Bogshorns and Butter-Dock, is a stimulant to the heart.
1 dram once a day.

Buttercup (Ranunculus bulbosus), also called St. Anthony's Turnip, Crowfoot, Frogsfoot and Goldcup, is used to cause blisters to appear on the skin. Taken internally, it will cause ulceration of the stomach.

Butterfly Bush (Buddleia davidii) is questionably toxic.
The scent of the flower is used to treat depression.

Butterwort (Pinguiicula vulgaris) is questionably toxic.
Since this plant is carnivorous, it protects from hexes and curses.

(Genista scoparius syn. Cytisus scoparius and Sarothamnus scoparious) Also known as Scotch Broom, and Irish broom. A Druid Sacred Tree, it is a many-branched erect shrub with simple or trifoliate leaves, and golden "sweet-pea" flowers. A flowering sprig of Broom was a heraldic battle device of Henry II of England who is said to have taken the family name Plantagenet from this medieval "planta genista".
Flowering broom tips are gathered in spring (before Midsummer) and are later used fresh or dry. The seeds are as useful as the tops. Both are soluble in water and alchohol. The infusion is used to tread cardiac edema. Simmer one teaspoon of the herb or seeds per cup of water for twenty minutes. The dose is one-half cup a day in one-fourth cup doses. Broom is combined with dandelion root, uva ursi, and juniper berries to treat bladder and kidney ailments. Take one part broom, one half oart uva ursi, and one half part dandelion root. Simmer until the liquid is reduced to half the original quantity. Add one-half part juniper berry and cool. A pinch of cayenne is sprinkled into each one-eighth cup dose. Caution: Acute kidney problems contraindicate this herb. Broom is a heart tonic. Use one teaspoon of the herb per cup of water, and do not exceed more than one-half cup per day. One to ten drops of tincture may be given as a dose.
Parts Used: Flowering twig and seed.
Magical Uses: Broom flowers bound with colored ribbons are carried at weddings. Couples may choose to "jump the broom" as they make their transition to a new station of life. Broom can be substituted for furze(gorse) at Spring Equinox. The Irish called it the "Physician's Power" because of its diuretic shoots. Sweep your outside ritual areas with it to purify and protect. Burning the blooms and shoots calms the wind. Hang indoors for protection and purification. Toss in the air or bury it to raise or calm winds.

Bearberry (uva-ursi) is from the heath family and you use the leaves of this plant for your preparations. The astringent leaves are used for diarrhea, dysentery, bladder infections and other mild urinary tract problems, and bronchitis. Bearberry is an herb whose safe and effective use is a lot more complicated than just making a tea with the leaves. While not promoting urination, it does serve as a urinary antiseptic. Bearberry combines with other chemicals in the intestine which kills or inhibits bacteria in the urinary tract.

You can get bearberry in capsules, tablest, teas, and tinctures. Usually the dried leaves are used for this. Traditionally, 1/3 oz. of the dried leaves are soaked in 1 qt. of cold water for at least 24 hours; strain out the leaves; reduce this infusion by heating it till it is reduced to 1 qt. By soaking the leaves in the cold water you are reducing tannins, which can irritate the stomach.

The decoction is taken in 1-2 fl. oz. doses three times per day. In order for it to be effective, you should take a couple of teaspoons of baking soda in a glass of water each day before taking the decoction.

CAUTION: Bearberry is high in tannis, which produces stomaches, nausea, and vomiting. If you have a weak stomach, avoid bearberry. Not recommended for children. Do not use for more than 1 week unless directed to do so by a physician. Do NOT use for kidney disorders or kidney disease. Avoid during pregnancy.

Borage

Source: Better Homes & Gardens

Latin name: Borago officinalis

It has long been said that those who partake of borage receive a sense of well-being and bravery. Ancient Celtic warriors drank wine with borage to give them courage before going into battle. An old wives' tale suggests smuggling the herb into a drink of a prospective bridegroom to give him the nerve to propose.

The vivid lavender-blue, star-shaped flowers add color to an herb garden, though the plant grows in a rather wild and unruly manner.

Culinary uses: Borage has a cucumberlike flavor, and its fresh leaves add a delightful essence to salads and vegetables. Borage stems can be eaten raw, like celery, and the flowers can be tossed into salads or used as garnish. Because the flavor of borage is lost in drying or freezing, it should be used fresh or stored in vinegar.

Medicinal uses: Borage is touted as a diuretic and an emollient, and once was used to treat fevers and bronchitis.

Other uses: Borage helps protect surrounding plants from insects and disease. It also attracts bees to a garden.

Cultivation: Borage is easily grown from seed as soon as the danger of frost is past. It requires a fairly rich soil in full sun. Thin seedlings to 2 feet apart. Sometimes flowers don't appear until the second year. Borage also is a successful indoor container herb, as long as plenty of root space is provided.

Bitterroot

The bitterroot is a small, low, pink flower with yellow center.

The plant is a low-growing perennial with a fleshy taproot and a simple or branched base. A single flower appears on each stem. They range in color from whitish to deep pink or rose during May and June. The petals (usually about 15) are oblong in shape and are 18-35 mm long in length.

At maturity, the bitterroot produces egg-shaped capsules with 6-20 nearly round seeds.

Medicinal Properties and Uses:
Has been used for heart trouble, inflammation of the membrane around the lungs, increasing milk flow after childbirth, purifying the blood, and relieving skin problems and diseases. Was once used as a cure for insanity.

Bay

Type: Essential Oil
Gender: N/A
Planet: Sun
Elements: Fire
Part Used: Essential Oil, Fresh or Dried Leaves
Powers: Psychic Awareness and Purification

For psychic awareness, put a few drops on a cotton ball. Sit comfortably in a chair or on the ground. Relax your body and push the busyness from your mind.

Inhale the scent. Visualize your conscious mind letting go of your psychic mind. Allow the odor to engulf your mind and body.

Once you've made a connection between the two halves of your mind, discover what you need to know.

Bergamot

Type: Essential Oil
Energy: N/A
Gender: N/A
Planet: Sun
Elements: Fire
Part Used: Essential Oil
Powers: Peace, Happiness, Restful Sleep

This oil soothes frazzled nerves and over stressed bodies. It is uplifting to our inner self or soul.

Inhale the oil, with or without visualization, to relieve depression and the tension of every day life.

At night, inhale the scent to produce a restful, relaxing sleep.

Basil

Botanical Name: Ocymum basilicum, Ocymum minimum (Bush Basil)
Plant Family: Labiatae
Common Names: Common Basil, St. Josephwort, Sweet Basil
Origin: Native to India
History: The meaning of the name is uncertain: some say it is from the Greek 'basileus' meaning 'a king'; others that it comes from 'basilisk' 'a mythical creature'.
In India Basil is sacred to both Krishna and Vishnu.
Culpepper calls it 'a herb of Mars and under the Scorpion'. It is a very masculine herb.

Tradition: Basil aids in attracting and keeping love brings wealth if you carry a basil leaf in your pocket
is used for purification baths, is used in wealth and prosperity rituals, is sprinkled over your mate while they sleep to ensure fidelity in your marriage (powdered basil) protects from evil and negativity was called the 'herb of poverty' giving protection to those who were poor and in want when placed on the breast during sleep it is the passport to paradise

(Hindu)

There were some conflicting legends:

In Italy it stood for 'love' and was called 'Kiss Me Nicholas' In Greece it meant 'hate' In Judeism sprigs of Basil were held 'to give strength when fasting'

Medicinal Parts Used: The whole herb

Contains:

aromatic volatile camphoraceous oil

Action:

antispasmodic [an agent which relieves or eases muscular spasms, cramps or convulsions] appetizer [an agent that excites the appetite] aromatic [a substance having an agreeable odor and stimulating qualities] carminative [an agent for easing griping pains, colic and expelling gas from the intestines] galactagogue [an agent that encourages or increases the secretion of mil stomachic [an agent that strengthens, stimulates or tones the stomach]

Medicinal Parts Used:

The whole herb

Contains:

aromatic volatile camphoraceous oil

Action:

antispasmodic [an agent which relieves or eases muscular spasms, cramps or convulsions] aromatic [a substance having an agreeable odor and stimulating qualities], carminative [an agent for easing griping pains, colic and expelling gas from the intestines] galactagogue [an agent that encourages or increases the secretion of milk] refrigerant [an agent that lowers abnormal body heat, relieves thirst and gives a feeling of coolness] stomachic [an agent that strengthens, stimulates or tones the stomach] vermifuge [an agent to expel parasitic worms, especially of the intestines] Basil is used:

Brain and Nervous System Conditions

clears the head and brain

headache (rubbed on the temples)

mild nervous disorders

Female Conditions

cleanses the womb

expels the afterbirth after childbirth

Gastrointestinal Conditions

constipation

enteritis

gastric catarrh

intestinal catarrh

stomach cramps

vomiting

Respiratory Tract Conditions

colds

whooping cough

Other

draws out poisons

Other Uses:

culinary herb in salads and cooking

BoxwoodN

Buxus Sempervirens

Saturn

Herbe of Protection...Religious Herbe

LORE:

Box was once considered to be highly effective in the treatment of rabies.

USAGE:

Box is a very valuable herbe for those who work with aniaml magick. Leaves of this herbe should be included in magickal workings to provide protection for one's pets and livestock, particularly those who roam freely out of doors.

The Farrars qoute Doreen Valiente citing the custom of including box in Yule decorations.

Synonym---Dudgeon.
---Parts Used---Wood and leaves.
---Habitat---Chiefly in limestone districts in western and southern Europe, westward to the Himalayas and Japan, northward to central and western France and in Britain, in some parts of southern and central England.

---Description---Box in its familiar dwarfed state is merely a shrub, but when left to grow naturally it will become a small tree 12 to 15 feet in height, rarely exceeding 20 feet, with a trunk about 6 inches in diameter covered with a rugged, greyish bark, that of the branches being yellowish. It belongs to the family Buxacece, a very small family of only six genera and about thirty species, closely related to the Spurge family - Euphorbiaceae. Only this evergreen species has been utilized in medicine.

Its twigs are densely leafy and the leaves are about 1/2 inch in length, ovate, entire, smooth, thick, coriaceous and dark green. They have a peculiar, rather disagreeable odour and a bitter and somewhat astringent taste. The flowers are in heads, a terminal female flower, surrounded by a number of male flowers. The fruit dehisces explosively the inner layer of the pericarp separating from the outer and shooting out the seed by folding into a U-shape.

---Constituents---The leaves have been found to contain besides a small amount of tannin and unimportant constituents, a butyraceous volatile oil and three alkaloids: (i) Buxine, the important constituent, chiefly responsible for the bitter taste and now regarded as identical with the Berberine of Nectander bark, (ii) Parabuxine, (iii) Parabuxonidine, which turns turmeric paper deep red. The bark contains chlorophyll, wax, resin, argotized tallow, gum, lignin, sulphates of potassium and lime, carbonates of lime and magnesia, phosphates of lime, iron and silica.

---Medicinal Action and Uses---The wood in its native countries is considered diaphoretic, being given in decoction as an alterative for rheumatism and secondary syphilis. Used as a substitute for guaiacum in the treatment of venereal disease when sudorifics are considered to be the correct specifics.

It has been found narcotic and sedative in full doses; emetico-cathartic and convulsant in overdose. The tincture was formerly used as a bitter tonic and antiperiodic and had the reputation of curing leprosy.

A volatile oil distilled from the wood has been prescribed in cases of epilepsy. The oil has been employed for piles and also for toothache.

The leaves, which have a nauseous taste, have sudorific, alterative and cathartic properties being given in powder, in which form they are also an excellent vermifuge.

Various extracts and perfumes were formerly made from the leaves and bark. A decoction was recommended by some writers as an application to promote the growth of the hair. The leaves and sawdust boiled in Iye were used to dye hair an auburn colour.

Dried and powdered, the leaves are still given to horses for the purpose of improving their coats. The powder is regarded by carters as highly poisonous, to be given with great care. In Devonshire, farriers still employ the old-fashioned remedy of powdered Box leaves for bot-worm in horses.

In former days, Box was the active ingredient in a once-famous remedy for the bite of a mad dog.

Animals in this country will not touch Box, and though camels are said to readily eat the leaves, they are poisoned by them.

The timber, though small, is valuable on account of its hardness and heaviness, being the hardest and heaviest of all European woods. It is of a delicate yellow colour, dense in structure with a fine uniform grain, which gives it unique value for the wood-engraver, the most important use to which it is put being for printing blocks and engraving plates. An edge of this wood stands better than tin or lead, rivalling brass in its wearing power. A large amount is used in the manufacture of measuring rules, various mathematical instruments, flutes and other musical instruments and the wooden parts of tools, for which a perfectly rigid and non-expansive material is required, as well as for toilet boxes, pillrounders and similar articles.

The Boxwood used by cabinet-makers and turners in France is chiefly the root. Gerard tells us:: 'The root is likewise yellow and harder than the timber, but of greater beauty and more fit for dagger haftes, boxes and suchlike. Turners and cuttlers do call this wood Dudgeon, wherewith they make Dudgeonhafted daggers.'

In France, Boxwood has been used as a substitute for hops and the branches and leaves of Box have been recommended as by far the best manure for the vine, as it is said no plant by its decomposition affords a greater quantity of vegetable manure.

---Dosage---As a purgative: dose of the powdered leaves, 1 drachm.

As vermifuge: 10 to 20 grains of the powdered leaves.

As sudorific: 1 to 2 oz. of the wood, in decoction.

---Other Species---DWARF BOX (Buxus suffructaca) possesses similar medicinal properties.

The American Boxwood used in herbal medicine as a substitute for Peruvian Bark, being a good tonic, astringent and stimulant, is not this Box but a kind of Dogwood, native to America, Cornus florida.

---Adulterant---Box bark which is also bitter and free from tannin, is sometimes substituted for Pomegranate Bark, which is employed as a worm-dispeller.

Box leaves have sometimes been substituted for Bearberry leaves (Uva-Ursi), from which they are distinguished by their notched apex.

Box leaves are also sometimes used as adulteration of senna, but are easily detected by their shape and thickness.

The custom of clipping Dwarf Box in topiary gardening is said to have originated with the Romans, a friend of Julius Caesar having invented it.

From A Modern Herbal and Full Moon Paradise

Bee Balm

Bee Balm, both Monarda fistulosa and Monarda didyma, is an herb grown
for it's scent, it's color and it's usefulness.

M. fistulosa is the lavender colored wild bergamot which grows often in open airy fields, has flowers that attract bees and it's flavor is sharper and a little
more minty than M. didyma. This is the variety known as bee balm and
it's scarlet blooms are a little longer and do attract hummingbirds, but
the bees have trouble getting nectar from the tubular blooms. Wild
bergamot is also known as horse-mint and Oswego tea. It was used by the
Native Americans as a tea, as a flavoring and also medicinally for
stomach and bronchial ailments. You'll also find other varieties of
Monarda available now, and all are edible.

Monarda needs good air circulation and doesn't generally do well when
crowded. If it is allowed to dry out and is in a crowded bed it will
most likely come down with mildew. When choosing a location make sure it
has its own space that will be kept fairly moist. My first year planting
it I grew it with Bachelor Buttons, which overcrowded it and the entire
plant contracted mildew. I cut all the infected stems off and the next
year it came back and doubled in size.

Deadhead the first blooms and you'll get another bloom out it towards
autumn. This is easy to do since the blooms and leaves can be used for
tea either fresh or dried. Tear apart the blooms, removing any green
parts, and use these and the small leaves to salad. Save the older,
larger leaves for tea. Hang in bunches to dry or place on screens out of
the sun. Add a leaf to a cup of black tea when brewing for a nice
flavor.

Bee Balm can be added to fruit salads, pork recipes, punches and other
beverage recipes plus it can be substituted for mint.

Buckwheat

(Fagopyrum esulentum)

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Earth

Energies: Money

Lore: Buckwheat pancakes are common enough in the United States, but few seem to know the magical history behind buckwheat itself. In Japan, this grain is used to make soba-buckwheat noodles. these are eaten on the Japanese new Year for "money luck," i.e., the ability to amass large amounts of money in the coming year.

Buckwheat noodles are also served on other festive occasions. Upon moving into a new home, the owners may give soba to the neighbors on each side and to the three houses across the road. This is a gift of good fortune and friendship.

Japanese goldsmiths have long used buckwheat dough to collect gold dust in their shops. This ageless practice has firmly connected soba with the promis of riches.

Magical uses: Because all grains are connected ith abundance in one form or another (fertility, money, life), eat buckwheat pancakes to attract this energy. For even more money power, pour on a bit of maple syrup.

*Scott Cunningham*

Barley

Planet: Venus

Element: Earth

Energies: Money, fertility, sex

Lore: Barley was an important grain to the ancient Egyptians, who used it as a medium of exchange and stocked it in tombs, most notably that of Tutankhamun. Thutmose Ill offered barley to Ra every day, as well as on the new Moon an on the sixth day of every month. According to one Egyptian legend, barley grew out of men (as wheat grew out of women). This was apparantly linked to the genders of the words in the ancient Egyptian language.

The Sumerian made barley a staple of their ddiet. Eight different types of barley beer were made. This drink was manufactured under the auspices of the goddess Ninkasi.

In ancient India, barley was sacred to Indra, known as "he who ripens barley." This gran was used for rituals relating to childbirth and marriage, and played a rol in funerals as well. The Vedas state that barley was also used with fresh water for healing ceremonies.

The babylonians were brewing beer with barley as early as 2800 B.C.E. and the Greeks planted it around temples to Demeter while asking for human fertility. In China, barley is a symbol of male sexual potency.

Magical Uses: As a wholesome food, barley is currently experiencing new popularity.

It is useful for prosperity diets-those designed to bing additional money when needed or to generally boost your financial state. Awaken this energy through visualization while preparing and eating barley dishes.

Add barley to diets if fertility or male sexual potency is a problem.

*Scott Cunningham*

Bladder wrack

Bladder wrack is a seaweed found on the coasts of the North Sea, the western Baltic Sea, and the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, also known by the common names black tang, rockweed, bladder Fucus, sea oak, black tany, cut weed and rock wrack. It was the original source of iodine, discovered in 1811, and was used extensively to treat goitre, a swelling of the thyroid gland related to iodine deficiency. In the 1860s, it was claimed that bladder wrack, as a thyroid stimulant, could counter obesity by increasing the metabolic rate and, since then, it has been featured in numerous weight-loss remedies.

A common food in Japan, bladder wrack is used as an additive and flavouring in various food products in Europe. Bladder wrack is commonly found as a component of kelp tablets or powders used as nutritional supplements. It is sometimes loosely called "kelp", but that term technically refers to a different seaweed.

Primary chemical constituents of this plant include mucilage, algin, mannitol, beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, iodine, bromine, potassium, volatile oils, and many other minerals. The main use of bladder wrack (and other types of seaweed) in herbal medicine is as a source of iodine, an essential nutrient for the thyroid gland. Bladder wrack has proved most useful in the treatment of underactive thyroid glands (hypothyroidism) and goitre. Through the regulation of thyroid function, there is an improvement in all the associated symptoms. It has a reputation in helping the relief of rheumatism and rheumatoid arthritis, both used internally and as an external application upon inflamed joints. A chemical constituent of bladder wrack called alginic acid swells upon contact with water; when taken orally, it forms a type of "seal" at the top of the stomach, and for this reason is used in several over-the-counter preparations for heartburn. The same constituent gives bladder wrack laxative properties as well. Other proposed uses of bladder wrack include treating atherosclerosis and strengthening immunity, although there is no scientific evidence at present that it works for these purposes.

Bladder wrack should not be used in cases of hyperthyroidism or cardiac problems, or during pregnancy and lactation. Excessive dosage (many times the recommended dosage) may lead to hyperthyroidism, tremor, increased pulse rate and elevated blood pressure.

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