Medicine-Making by the Moon By Gretchen Lawlor
Waxing Moon: In this period, the life force is increasing and rising Through the plant. This period is excellent for harvesting (except for The roots). This is also a good time to draw energy of the plant out in A tincture or oil.
Waning Moon: In this period, the vital forces are going down into the Root. This is a good time for feeding roots, and harvesting roots.
New Moon - First Quarter: The first few days of the New Moon are Considered the best for harvesting roots or anything fully ripe (not Leaves though).
Second Quarter Moon: (7 days after New Moon) Good for harvesting and Reorganizational projects. Optimal time to harvest plants with twigs and Stems you want to use. This is because the plant energy is in movement Throughout plant but not quite concentrated in the extremities yet.
Full Moon - Third Quarter: At the Full Moon and 1.5 days before and After is a time of peak emotional energy. Medicine-making for profound Magickal intent can be made now. Harvest flowers right after the Full Moon itself. Do most medicine-making a few days after the Full Moon so That the moon energy has time to stabilize a bit. The medicine good to Make at this time is: to eliminate, shrink or detoxify.
Fourth Quarter Moon: Exists half way between Full and New Moon. Best Time to eliminate weeds. Plants are more willing to let go in this Quarter. This is a recommended time for harvesting roots.
Source: Llewellyn's Herbal Almanac for the Year 2000 |