Magical and Medicinal Uses of Thistle

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Powers: Exorcism, Hex-Breaking, Healing, Optimism, Protection, Purification, Strength

Magical Uses and History: Before I dive into the history and lore of thistle, I need to note that the word "thistle" has been used to refer to a variety of plants in the Asteraceae family, including, but not limited to, milk thistle, blessed thistle, and Scotch thistle. Where possible, I have noted the type of thistle experts believe the text references, but the correspondences largely overlap due to their characteristic sharp leaves, prickly spines, and dense purple or pink flower heads.

Thistle, like many plants, has a dualistic cosmogony, appearing as both a plant of the devil as well as a warder of evil. According to artiological legends, God allocated thistle, along with nettle, to the devil:

The Lord God, when He created the world, gave out and distributed various seeds: to people, animals, birds. He also gave a few grains of oats and buckwheat to the devil, but St. Michael said: Lord, these are good for people too, the devil will be just fine with thistles and nettles. – So take those away from him and give him these, God commanded. The angel flew after the devil and caught up with him at the crossroads as the latter screamed incessantly: “My oats, my buckwheat, my oats, my buckwheat!” – What you’re saying! The angel of God stopped him. – I seem to have forgotten – So I’ll remind you: yours is thistle and nettle. – Oh, thank you – and with that the devil carried on and shrieked again: “My thistle, my nettle!”.

Other sources say thistle was created by the devil and refer to it as devil's thistle, devil's seed, and devil's weed. Plants associated with the devil were often considered undesirable weeds. Farmers routinely removed thistle and other "weeds" from their fields, sometimes using magical means to do so. For example, on Christmas Day, rubbish would be swept into the field where thistle grew in hopes of banishing it, while on St. Stephen's Day, oats were spread over fields with thistle while saying "Devil, flee with the thistle, for I am sowing blessed oats." However, it is this association with the devil, as well as its thorny nature, that prompted its use in protection. Thistle was spread on thresholds, stuck in windows, hidden in roof seathing or thatch, and placed in stables and barns to protect against witches, the devil, and other untoward spirits.

Similar myths and legends exist across multiple cultures, where thistle has long been used as a protective amulet. In German folklore, it is said a merchant who forgot to wear his thistle was attacked, robbed, and murdered by a jealous thief. With his dying breath, the merchant placed a "curse of thistle" on the thief so that he would never know peace. Haunted by the curse, the thief eventually confessed to his sins and was hanged. Apuleius wrote some two thousand years ago about wearing amulets of thistle to 'avert all ills,' while in Estonia, thistle was placed on ripening grain to protect it from evil spirits who would spoil it. In the Balkans, silver thistle was carried to protect against slander, while in Russia it was used to protect livestock and children from witches and the devil.

However, one of the most famous uses of thistle for protection is in Scotland, where thistle (Scotch thistle) is believed to have helped the Scots win the Battle of Largs in the 13th century, when a Viking horde sought to ambush the sleeping clansmen. According to the stories, the Norsemen removed their shoes to quiet their footsteps. As they crept across the countryside, however, one of the men stepped on the thorny thistle, crying out in pain. This cry woke the Scots, who in turn defeated their foes.

While the thistle may have saved the Scots from the Norse invaders, the thistle was highly regarded by the Norse for its protective qualities, specifically against lightning. The Norse believed the thistle was created by lightning, thus associating it with Thor, and therefore could protect the wearer from lightning strikes. It was not only worn for such purposes, but also placed in homes for the same reason. As such, all forms of thistle can be used for spells and rituals for protection. Carry thistle on your person, place in your home, or grow in your garden to protect against evil, thieves, unwanted attention, and lightning. Add to baths to wash away unwanted negativity and break hexes. Add to protection bottles and spell bags, or weave into your clothing for similar purposes. Its uses in protection magic are pretty endless.

In the same vein of magic, thistle has also long been used for strength. In Scandinavian folklore, thistle was carried to draw strength and power from another. It was said that while holding thistle, if one thought about another person, they would draw their strength into them, thus weakening the other. Other folklore discusses eating thistle or carrying it to bring strength and vitality.

Apart from protection, thistle (milk thistle) is also associated with milk production and the Virgin Mary. In one Christian myth, milk cascaded from Mary's breast while feeding the infant God, and dropped onto the thistle, thus imbuing it with sacred powers. Imagery from Christian texts and church stained glass often depicts milk thistle, especially in conjunction with Mother Mary. In the Book of Hours, thistle frames Mary and the child, furthering their association with one another, and therefore a symbol of austerity and grace. Furthermore, milk thistle was often used to protect cows' milk from thieves. In Scandinavia, however, thistle is specifically named in runic inscriptions that are believed to aid women in giving birth. Medicinally, thistle was used to help lactating mothers, furthering its association with milk and new life. As such, thistle can be used in lactation spells and remedies, or spells and rituals related to childbirth, new life, and feminine fertility.

As with many plants, thistle has long been used for healing. Carrying thistle or weaving it into charms and amulets was said to dispel melancholy and bring joy. The Anglo-Saxons drank thistle tea to ease stomach pains, while the Romany used it to treat cancer. In Irish folk medicine, thistle was often boiled in milk to cure asthma and whooping cough. Culpepper wrote of thistle's use in treating venomous animal bites, boils, and plague sores, a cure Charlemagne also praised when thistle was used to treat disease when it broke out in his camp. Pliny the Elder said it could cure snakebites, treat bad breath, flatulence, and even baldness. Today, modern scientific advancements have proven thistle's use to treat gastrointestinal issues related to bile production as well as enhance breastmilk production. With this in mind, thistle can be used in spells, rituals, and remedies for health and wellness, especially for issues related to lactation and galbladder/liver function.

While most of the folklore focuses on protection and healing, some sources discuss thistle's use in love potions and divinations. Thistle was combined with cloves, laurel seeds, and sparrow wort in pigeon broth and drunk to ensnare a lover. Other spells involve planting thistle in a mixture of dirt from a blooming rose garden and semen from a black stallion, which is then watered by the urine of a white mare for one month before eating. To divine love, thistle flowers were placed in the four corners of one's pillow, each named from a different suitor. Whoever's head grew a new shoot first was said to foretell your future spouse. Finally, carrying thistle was said to make men better lovers. As such, thistle can be used in spells and rituals for love, specifically to attract it or ensare it.

Thistle can be used in a number of spells, including:

      Healing Spells

      Strength Magic

      Protection Spells

      Love Spells

      Excocisms

Medicinal Uses: While I discussed thistles as a whole in the previous section, for medicinal purposes I will focus only on milk thistle (Silybum marianum), as it is the most widely used variety in medicine. Please pay attention to scientific names when working with medicinal plants. The seeds and leaves of milk thistle are a galactagogue, meaning they can be used to promote milk secretion (hence the name milk thistle). It is also a cholagogue, helping to stimulate the flow of bile from the gallbladder and liver, making it useful in treating gallbladder- and liver-related bile issues.

Preparation and Dosage: To create an infusion, combine one cup of boiling water with 1 teaspoon dried leaves. Let the mixture infuse for 10-15 minutes before enjoying. Drink up to three times a day. As a tincture, take 1-2 milliliters up to three times a day.

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Magical and Medicinal Uses of Camellia

Gender: Feminine

Planet: Moon
Element: Water
Powers: Wealth

Magical Uses and History: The genus Camellia contains about 230 species found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia. The genus was named in honor of Georg Kamel, who spent his career collecting, describing, and studying the flora of the Philippines and signed his correspondences with other botanists, Pater Camellus. While Kamel never actually saw a camellia before his death in 1706, his work nevertheless impressed future researcher, Carl Linnaeus, who insisted the group be named in his honor.

While diverse, the genus is characterized by glossy evergreen leaves with colored flowers that are solitary or grouped in groups of 3. Included in this genus are many of the teas we know and love, which have a unique history all their own. For the sake of this article, I am going to focus on Camellia japonica, an ornamental variety commonly referred to as camellia in the West.

Camellia is native to China and Japan, which is where much of the more ancient folklore and magical uses arise, as the plant was highly sought after and regarded for its beauty and symbolism. The first known documentation of this ornamental variety appeared on porcelain and paintings from China around the 11th century. The red variety is most often depicted, but the scroll of the Four Magpies of the Song Dynasty features the white variety. One of the most famous stories, however, involving the camellia, arises from Japan. 

Commonly referred to as tsubaki, the camellia is associated with the shapeshifter Furutsubaki-no-rei or "old camellia spirit. This yōkai, according to Toriyama Sekien's Konjaku Gazu Zoku Hyakki, is said to inhabit old camellia trees. Taking on the appearance of a beautiful woman, the spirit uses its beauty to trick and bewitch its victims, usually to scare them away from the tree or garner sympathy. There are some rare reports of victims disappearing with the spirit, and it is said that hearing its wailing cries is a warning of impending doom. 

The symbolism here is two-fold, with the camellia being associated with beauty as well as danger or death. Some scholars have attributed this duality to the flower's nature, which falls all at once, similar to a person's head falling off their neck during an execution. For warriors, to see one fall was said to foretell decapitation in battle. Because of its association with death, it is taboo to bring camilla flowers into a sick room, as doing so is said to bring death to the sick person. Either way, the camellia is associated with both beauty and death and can be used in spells and rituals for such purposes. Use camellia oil in beauty spells and rituals to anoint yourself or magical objects, or add to body products to enhance your radiance and power. Add fresh red or pink camellia flowers to bath water to amplify your beauty or to pouches and bottles to attract admiration. For death-related rituals, add white camellias to ancestral altars or funeral arrangements to honor your loved ones.

More modern associations, however, link the camellia with wealth and prosperity. During the 16th century, Europeans attempted to import living camellias to grow their own tea, without success. Live plants couldn't survive the journey, and with only herbarium specimens and imported paintings to represent the plant, confusion among Europeans grew. What were the tea varieties, and which were not? In the end, the first successful live plant to be brought to Europe was the ornamental variety in 1739. Despite not being usable as tea, the variety grew in popularity among the wealthy elite for its beautiful blooms. Ornamental plants, especially those that were exotic, were highly sought after by the wealthy, specifically because they were not used to make money. This proved to others that money was of no consequence to them and that they were more sophisticated than their peers because of their taste in beauty. According to historian Tamaka Plankins Thornton, "the treasuring of a flower's beauty or a fruit's perfection was prima facie evidence of an ability to appreciate what had no material value and no apparent use."

In 1862, the camellia arrived in the United States and quickly became popular among the elite. They became so popular by the 1870s and 1880s that the time was referred to as the "Boston camellia boom." Like in Europe, the camellia became a symbol of wealth in the United States. Not only did you need to be able to afford such a plant, but it also required hothouses in northern states, as it could not survive the harsh winters. Like in Europe, the Boston elite wanted to prove they did not value money and could value something that would not make them money. Like in the North, the camellia was a status symbol in the South, despite it not needing a hothouse to survive. As such, it was planted everywhere and anywhere, becoming so popular that it became Alabama's state flower. All of this is to say, the camellia is highly regarded for its association with wealth and luxury and can be used in spells and rituals for such purposes.

Add camellia petals to money jars, spell pouches, or poppets to draw money and financial abundance to you. Add to your altar on Thursday to bring good fortune and encourage blossoming opportunities. You can also carry camellia petals in your wallet, purse, or cash register to ensure a continuous flow of riches. If you have the space, grow camellia in your garden to ensure wealth and prosperity in your home.

Camellia can be used in a number of spells, including:

      Glamour Spells

      Beauty Spells

      Prosperity Spells

      Wealth Magic

      Ancestral Magic

Medicinal Uses: While largely prized for its ornamental value, Camellia japonica has been used to treat a variety of ailments due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, as it is rich in bioactive compounds such as triterpenes, flavonoids, and essential fatty acids. Topically, camellia can be used as a deep moisturizer to treat pigmentation, burns and scalds, control bleeding, and reduce redness caused by rosacea. There are some studies that also suggest the use of camilla to protect dermal cells against mitochondrial damage and premature ageing caused by air pollutants. Rich in oleic acid, camellia can lower cholesterol if ingested. While camellia is generally considered safe, it does contain saponins, which are toxic in large doses.

Preparation and Dosage: To create a floral infusion, combine a handful of fresh flower petals with 1 cup of hot water. Allow the mixture to infuse for 5 to 7 minutes before straining. Drink up to three times a day. To create a 'green tea' style infusion, combine 1 teaspoon of dried, young leaves with one cup of hot water. Allow the mixture to infuse for 3 to 4 minutes before straining. Drink up to three times a day. Topically, camellia seed oil can be applied directly to the skin to reduce inflammation, irritation, and pigmentation.

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Magical and Medicinal Uses of Fennel

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Mercury
Element: Fire
Powers: Enlightenment, Fertility, Healing, Lust, Protection, Purification, Wisdom

Magical Uses and History: Fennel likely originated in the Mediterranean, spreading throughout the rest of the world as trade prospered and cultures exchanged goods. Fennel has long been revered, not only for its culinary uses but also for its medicinal and magical properties, playing a significant role in rituals as far back as the ancient Greeks. These ritual uses did not die with the ancient Greeks, however, but spread and morphed with time.

In ancient Greece, fennel was most often used in religious ceremonies, most notably for the Greek god Dionysus. Fennel was used to create thyrsi, wands or staves made from giant fennel covered in ivy and leaves, and topped with a pine cone or artichoke. These staves were carried by devotees of Dionysus and used in Bacchic rituals. It was a symbol of fertility (it is a deliberately phallic object, after all), prosperity, and hedonism. By some accounts, iron points were hidden among the leaves and used as weapons to "incite madness." In the Bacchae and Other Plays, Euripides writes, "To raise my Bacchic shout, and clothe all who respond / In fawnskin habits, and put my thyrsus in their hands– / The weapon wreathed with ivy-shoots ... There's a brute wildness in the fennel-wands; reverence it well." By all accounts, the use of fennel in the thyrsus associates it with fertility, lust, and protection, and therefore, it can be used in spells and rituals for such purposes. If you work with Dionysus, consider creating your own thyrsus to use in rituals. Add fennel or fennel seeds to spells and recipes to attract or promote fertility, increase lust, and ignite passions. It works best when consumed.

Fennel wasn't just associated with Dionysus in ancient Greece, but also with Prometheus. Fennel is believed to be the plant Prometheus used to steal fire from the gods to gift to humanity. This associated fennel with enlightenment, knowledge, and wisdom. This symbolism is echoed by Pliny the Elder, who wrote that snakes rubbed against fennel plants to restore their eyesight while shedding. This led people to believe that eating fennel would improve one's eyesight, and as such, further links fennel to enlightenment and knowledge, as boosting eyesight helps one "see" the truth. This is further supported by fennel's association with Mercury, which Culpepper attributes to its versatile nature and associations with mental clarity and wit. As such, fennel can be used in spells, rituals, and recipes for clarity, enlightenment, wisdom, and knowledge. Fennel seeds can be burned, drunk as a tea, or used as an essential oil to enhance clairvoyance and promote focus.

The Romans, however, by and large revered fennel for its associations with strength, success, and longevity. Roman soldiers consumed fennel seeds prior to embarking on military campaigns to increase their stamina and ward off bad luck and evil spirits. In Goblet of Life, Longfellow suggests it was eaten by gladiators for similar purposes before entering the arena: "It gave new strength, and fearless mood; / And gladiators, fierce and rude, /Mingled it in their daily food; / And he who battled and subdued..." Furthermore, fennel was often used to crown the winners of games, thus associating fennel with success. This correspondence is echoed in Greece, where fennel is referred to as marathon after the battle of Marathon (490 BC) that was fought in a fennel field. Use fennel, especially the seeds, in spells and rituals to increase stamina, bring strength, or ensure success. It is also useful in ensuring the spell lasts and is successful.

Fennel was so well-regarded that Charlemagne encouraged its cultivation across Europe. It became a staple in royal kitchens, being served to kings with fruit, bread, and fish. Records indicate that King Edward I of England purchased fennel seed by the pound, which would have fetched a rather hefty price. Spanish missionaries spread fennel to the Americas, while the spice trade across Europe and Asia spread it into India and China. Across all of these cultures, fennel was highly regarded for its medicinal purposes, being used to cure a wide range of ailments. As mentioned earlier, fennel was associated with snakes, which likely led to its use in poultices to treat snake bites and as an antivenom. It was also used to treat diabetes, bronchitis, chronic cough, kidney stones, hookworms, and improve eyesight. In Longfellow's Goblet of Life, fennel is praised for its ability to restore eyesight: "Above the lowly plants it towers, / The fennel, with its yellow flowers, / And in an earlier age than ours / Was gifted with the wondrous powers, / Lost vision to restore." This use is also extolled in an old English rhyme: "Whaune the heddere (adder) is hurt in eye / Ye red fenel is hys prey, / And yif he mowe it fynde / Wonderly he doth hys kynde. / He schall it chow wonderly, / And leyn it to hys eye kindlely, / Ye jows shall sang and hely ye eye / Yat beforn was sicke et feye." Needless to say, fennel is deeply associated with healing and can be used in spells, rituals, and recipes for such purposes.

Apart from its use in improving eyesight (which modern science does not support), it was also used heavily as a digestive aid and an appetite suppressant. In the New England colonies, Puritans often chewed on fennel seeds to suppress their appetite during fasting. Churchgoers often chewed on fennel seeds during long services for similar purposes, earning them the name of "meeting seeds." Fennel seeds can be added to spells to strengthen their endurance or suppress an unwanted force from interfering with their success.

Finally, fennel has a long history of being used in purification and protection magic. In Medieval Europe, fennel was hung over the door, or seeds were placed in a keyhole, to protect against witches, ghosts, and evil spirits. Stuffing a keyhole with fennel seeds was believed to bar passage into the home. Both the hanging of fennel and the blocking of keyholes were done during Midsummer for protection. According to some accounts, fennel was also used to ward off fleas and other insects. As such, fennel can be added to spells and rituals for protection. Hang fennel above doors and windows or sprinkle seeds around your property, add to spell jars, burn seeds or dried leaves, or add to sachets for protection.

Fennel can be used in a number of spells, including:

      Protection Spells

      Fertility Magic

      Lust Spells

      Healing Spells

      Endurance Magic

      Strength Spells

      Enlightenment Magic

Medicinal Uses: Fennel seeds make an excellent remedy for stomach and intestinal issues such as flatulence and colic, and are also often used to stimulate appetite and digestion due to their carminative and antispasmodic properties. As an expectorant, fennel seeds can also be used to treat bronchitis and coughs, and are often used to flavor cough remedies for this purpose. Fennel is also a natural galactagogue, meaning it can be used to initiate, maintain, or increase breast milk production, making it perfect for expecting (in small doses, as it can act as a mild uterine stimulant) or new mothers. Externally, fennel seeds can be used to treat muscular and rheumatic pains as they are a rubefacient, stimulating blood flow and creating a warming effect to relieve deep tissue pain and reduce inflammation.

Preparation and Dosage: To create an infusion, combine one cup of boiling water with 1-2 teaspoons of slightly crushed fennel seeds. Allow the mixture to infuse for 10 minutes. Drink up to three times a day. To relieve flatulence, drink one cup 30 minutes before meals. As a tincture, take 2-4 milliliters up to three times a day. To create a salve, combine 1.5 cups of lightly crushed fennel seeds with 1/2 cup of carrier oil. Allow the mixture to infuse in a window for 1-2 weeks or warm on very low heat for one hour. In a double boiler, combine infused oil with 1-2 tablespoons of beeswax. Pour into tins or glass jars and allow the salve to harden undisturbed. Use as needed for pain relief. To create a poultice, crush 1-2 tablespoons of fennel seeds and combine with a small amount of water to form a thick paste. Apply directly or in a gauze to the irritated or inflamed skin. Leave on for approximately 20 minutes before removing. If you are pregnant, limit your use of fennel to food safe levels, not medicinal, as it can act as a mild uterine stimulant.

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Magical and Medicinal Uses of Sandalwood

Gender: Feminine

Planet: Moon
Element: Water
Powers: Exorcism, Healing, Knowledge, Money, Protection

Magical Uses and History: Sandalwood is a broad term used to describe the wood from trees found in the Santalum genus. Like many woods used in witchcraft and occult practices, sandalwood has a high concentration of volatile oils, which gives it a warm, woody aroma. And, as with most plants used in occult practices, sandalwood has a long and rich history that dates back thousands of years.

The earliest known mention of sandalwood appeared during the 5th-century in Nirukta of Yāska, where it is mentioned in reference to the acquisition of knowledge. Yāska compares a person who has studied, yet does not understand the Vedas, to a "post or a beast of burden carrying a load of sandalwood, unaware of its fragrance." This metaphor not only reiterates sandalwood's well-known fragrance but also connects it to wisdom or knowledge. Current research suggests sandalwood may help calm the nerves and improve mental clarity, further supporting this connection. In Buddhism, sandalwood is used to help maintain one's alertness during meditation as well as to transform one's desires. As such, sandalwood can be burned during divination rituals to open the mind and connect with the spirit world, or in similar spells and rituals.

In 300 BCE, the Arthashastra comments on sandalwood being a valuable and taxable commodity, prized for its fragrance and spiritual connection. Trade of sandalwood remained strong, peaking in the 18th century after the discovery of Hawaiian sandalwood. Trade exploded with China, but intense, unregulated harvesting severely depleted the forests, leading to an eventual market crash by 1840. This, coupled with disease and desire, drove prices up. Today, sandalwood remains one of the most valuable woods, with Indian sandalwood costing around $200 per kilogram and oil around $8,000 per kilogram. Some reports state that a hectare of mature sandalwood trees is worth about $400,000. Due to its immense cost, burning sandalwood during funeral rites was a hallmark of wealth. Over three tons were used in Gandhi's cremation alone. Most individuals choose to use a sandalwood paste applied to the forehead, which costs significantly less but is still believed to help guide the soul to the next life. Some sources say sandalwood was also used in embalming formulas in ancient Egypt, likely due to its ability to mask odors and purify the body, but research is scarce on the topic. As such, sandalwood is both a status symbol and connected to the afterlife. It can be used in spells and rituals to attract wealth and prosperity as well as to connect with your ancestors, the divine, or the Otherworld. Its strong scent, coupled with its soothing abilities, makes it perfect to burn during hedge riding or other such rituals. 

Apart from the aforementioned uses, sandalwood is most often used as a paste in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sufism during religious ceremonies. The paste is applied to one's forehead as a mark of devotion and is believed to purify and sanctify oneself and one's tools, helping to make a connection with the divine. This paste is also often applied to statues, effigies, and ritual tools for such purposes. During Māhāmastakābhiṣeka, the statue of Sommateshwara is bathed in a mixture of spices, including sandalwood, as an offering. If one could afford it, sandalwood was also used to carve religious statues. Needless to say, sandalwood is deeply connected with the divine, purification, and protection. It can be used in virtually any religious ceremony, especially those connected to the divine, the Otherworld, or ancestors.

Sandalwood can be used in a number of spells, including:

      Protection Spells

      Exorcisms

      Healing Spells

      Money Magic

      Cleansing Rituals

      Divination

      Ancestral Magic

Medicinal Uses: Sandalwood is most often used as an oil to treat a variety of ailments, especially those of the skin when properly diluted. Some research shows sandalwood oil aids in wound healing and can be used to treat acne, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis when used topically due to its anti-inflammatory, astringent, and antiseptic properties. It is also due to these anti-inflammatory properties that sandalwood oil may help alleviate respiratory symptoms related to colds and bronchitis. Finally, sandalwood oil contains high concentrations of santalol, which acts as a nervous system sedative, thus reducing stress, anxiety, and tension while improving mental clarity.

Preparation and Dosage: To dilute, combine 6-18 drops per 30mL of carrier oil to make a 1-3% solution. Sandalwood oil mixes well with almond, coconut, or jojoba oil. If you would like to diffuse the oil, add 3-10 drops to your diffuser or humidifier.

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Magical and Medicinal Uses of Coriander

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Powers: Healing, Immortality, Love, Lust, Protection

Magical Uses and History: Coriander is a world-famous herb that belongs to the same family as celery and carrots. Generally, coriander refers to the seeds of Coriandrum sativum, while cilantro is the name given to the leaves. For the sake of this article, I am going to discuss the use of both the seeds and the leaves in myth, magic, and folklore.

The earliest evidence of coriander's use appears in archeological findings dated around 6000-5000 BC. Fifteen coriander seeds were found in the Nahal Hemar Cave in Israel, suggesting coriander was a dietary and medicinal staple. By 1500 BC, coriander was mentioned in Sanskrit literature, the Book of Exodus, and the Ebers Papyrus, suggesting the plant never fell out of use. In India, coriander was favored in Ayurveda as a harmonious plant capable of balancing the bodies of all people. It is believed to balance all three doshas, or bio-energetic forces, particularly Pitta, the mind-body energies composed of fire and water. As such, it is revered as a cooling herb and is used to aid and stimulate digestion and reduce burning sensations, skin rashes, and even allergies. Similarly, the Ebers Papyrus lists coriander as a digestive aid, helping to reduce stomach pains, cramps, and flatulence. One such recipe combines coriander with juniper and beer to treat abdominal pain.

Later, Pliny the Elder in Natural History noted coriander's many medicinal uses, including dedicating an entire section to its twenty-one remedies. According to Pliney, coriander was used to treat a wide range of ailments such as snakebites, intestinal parasites, eye diseases, burns, digestive complaints, hiccups, nosebleeds, gout, and diseased testes. By the 13th-century, coriander was also used to quicken childbirth, but too much coriander was believed to cause mental confusion and dim one's vision. Needless to say, these medicinal uses continued well into modern day, expanding and contracting with modern science. As such, coriander seeds are perfect for spells and rituals related to healing. Wear coriander seeds to reduce pain, particularly headaches and joint aches; burn in a sick room to promote wellness and a speedy recovery; add to healing sachets or incense blends; add to ritual healing baths; or brew as a tea for the same purpose. The uses are pretty endless. 

It is likely from its healing nature that coriander is also often associated with protection. Dried seeds can be included in amulets or sachets for personal protection; hung around the home, especially doors, to protect from unwanted guests; diffused to remove negativity from a space; added to spiritual baths; or used to shield practitioners during astral travel.

Apart from healing and protection, coriander is probably most famous for its use in love and lust spells. Pliny specifically mentions coriander as an aphrodisiac, a view echoed by Egyptian, Arabian, and Chinese texts. In Egypt, coriander was referred to as the "spice of happiness," likely for its ability to stimulate sexual desires. It was often used in love potions for such purposes. In 1,001 Arabian Nights, coriander was used to help a merchant cure is impotence, while in Traditional Chinese Medicine, coriander was prized for its warming nature, helping to boost energy and libido. In Ancient Greece and Rome and well into Medieval Europe, coriander was often mixed with wine to create love potions to elicit sexual desire. As such, coriander, both seeds and leaves, can be used in spells, rituals, and recipes to promote love and lust. Leaves and seeds can be added to sachets, food, and wine to promote love and lust; diffuse or wear essential oils to enhance your attraction, or anoint candles for such purposes.

Finally, according to Taoist beliefs, coriander is believed to be an herb of immortality. It was thought that consuming coriander seeds would grant the eater immortality and was often used in food for such purposes, especially in a dish known as yuan cai or "fragrant vegetable." This likely stems from the plant's natural healing abilities. As such, coriander seeds can be used in spells, rituals, and especially edible recipes regarding immortality. The seeds can also be added to spells to ensure they are long-lasting.

Coriander can be used in a number of spells, including:

      Love Spells

      Immortality Magic

      Healing Spells

Medicinal Uses: Coriander seeds are carminative and therefore are often used to alleviate digestive issues such as gas, bloating, cramps, colic, and indigestion, as well as to ease diarrhea, especially in children. As an oil, coriander can be used to stimulate the production of digestive juices and stimulate appetite. Some studies suggest that coriander seeds may promote relaxation and aid in blood sugar control.

Preparation and Dosage: To make an infusion, combine one cup of boiling water with 1 teaspoon of bruised seeds. Allow the mixture to infuse for five minutes. Drink before meals to reduce gas and other digestive issues. 

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Magical and Medicinal Uses of Hyssop

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Jupiter
Element: Fire
Powers: Necromancy, Protection, Purification

Magical Uses and History: Hyssop is one of just over 100 plants mentioned specifically in the Bible, where it was used for cleansing and purification. In Psalm 51.7, hyssop is mentioned as a cleansing herb: "Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow." In other passages, it is specifically mentioned in purification and protection rituals for the home and body, including sanctifying Jesus's burial site. Exodus 12:22 states: "Take a bunch of hyssop, dip it into the blood in the basin, and put some of the blood on the top and on both sides of the doorframe. None of you shall go out of the door of your house until morning." A similar charm appears in Leviticus 14:49: "To purify the house, he is to take two birds and some cedar wood, scarlet yarn and hyssop." Based on these passages, it should come as no surprise, then, that the name hyssop is derived from the Greek hyssopos and Hebrew azob, meaning "holy herb." However, scholars suggest that the hyssop mentioned in the Bible is not our modern hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) but instead Syrian oregano (Origanum syriacum) or another herb with a distinct scent. Despite this, modern occult practices treat modern hyssop as if it were the biblical plant. As such, hyssop is most often used in rituals, spells, and rites for cleansing and purification, particularly those related to "sin," guilt, or unwanted negativity. It is also an effective cleanser for after you have been harmed by another, whether it be physically or verbally. Add to ritual cleansing baths or floor washes, drink as a tea, or use to asperge your dwelling. Hang above doors and windows or carry on your person to protect yourself and those within your home.

Outside of the Bible, there is little folklore regarding hyssop. Some sources mention that hyssop protects against the evil eye and witches, but this likely stems from biblical passages. The most compelling folklore, however, comes from the Book of Raziel from the Middle Ages. In this book, medieval magicians suggest hyssop can be used in necromancy to help compel the dead to talk. Blessed water was sprinkled over the burial site of the deceased using a spring of hyssop while calling upon the dead to rise and speak. Again, however, this association with the dead likely comes back to biblical passages where hyssop is used in funeral rites to purify the dead (Numbers 19) and was even present at the crucifixion of Jesus (John 19:29). As such, hyssop can be used in spells, rituals, and rites for spirit communication and to aid in bridging the physical and spiritual realms, particuallary those associated with contacting your ancestors. Use hyssop to adorn altars and gravesites, burn to aid in spirit communication, or roll candles in dried hyssop for similar purposes.

Hyssop can be used in a number of spells, including:

      Protection Spells

      Ancestral Magic

      Cleansing Rituals

      Death Magic

Medicinal Uses: Hyssop has a large range of uses due to the antispasmodic action of its volatile oil. It is warming and helps stimulate the movement of fluids, particularly mucus. It is most commonly used as an expectorant to treat coughs, bronchitis, chronic catarrh, and other respiratory ailments. Hyssop is also a diaphoretic, making it an effective remedy for treating colds. As a nervine, it is used to treat anxiety and petit mal, a form of epilepsy. Hyssop combines well with coltsfoot for coughs and elderberry and boneset for colds, but should not be taken by those who are pregnant. In high doses, hyssop can cause seizures.

Preparation and Dosage: To make an infusion, combine one cup of boiling water with 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers. Allow to infuse for 10-15 minutes. Drink up to three times a day. As a tincture, take 1-4 milliliters up to three times a day. As an oxymel, take 1-2 teaspoons every hour until symptoms subside, but no more than a couple of days.

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Magical and Medicinal Uses of Chili Peppers

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Powers: Fidelity, Hex-Breaking, Love

Magical Uses and History: Chili pepper, which refers to a large number of edible peppers in the Capsicum genus, has long been beloved for its magical and medicinal properties, especially in Latin America, where it is native. They were an essential part of indigenous culture, being used by the Aztecs, Mayans, Incas, and others to ward off illness, disease, and evil, and to improve digestion.

In Ancient Inca culture, the chili pepper, or uchu or huayca, was considered a holy plant sacred to Agar-Uchu or "Brother Chili Pepper." Agar-Uchu was one of the "Four Brothers" found in the Incan creation myth and brother to the first Incan king. These four brothers symbolized the early kings and their teachings, a reflection of the civilization's diet and medicinal practices.

The chili pepper is also found within the Codex Mendoza, which contains records of the Aztecs. A number of illustrations can be found within of chili peppers, further suggesting its importance among Latin American peoples. The Aztecs were known to use chili peppers to spice a cocoa bean drink known as tchocoatl, as well as to flavor dishes. It was also used as a form of currency as it was an important trade food at markets and was even collected as tribute. Archaeological evidence, along with written and oral traditions, suggests that the chili pepper was also used in spiritual practices and offered as a gift to the gods. It was sometimes burned to cleanse spaces and people, its intense heat believed to ward off evil and unwanted spirits. There is also record of chili pepper smoke being used as a weapon as well as a punishment for unruly children and excessively angry or rageful adults, as inhaling the vapors caused irritation to the eyes, nose, and mouth. Ouch! In fact, chili peppers were among the first weapons of chemical warfare, used by the Taino people to fight off the Spaniards. Gourds filled with ash and dried chilis were flung at the invaders. Upon exploding, these gourds released clouds of stinging flakes, slowing down and even killing some of their enemies. This harsh, stinging smoke is also believed to ward off negativity and evil and was sometimes used at burial sites to protect visitors and to keep vermin away.

In Mayan culture, shamans used chili peppers, along with other herbs such as tobacco, to induce an altered state of consciousness, allowing them to divine the future and communicate with the gods. A 2024 study involving DNA analysis of soil samples from a ballcourt at the ancient city of Yaxnohcah on the Yucatán Peninsula found traces of four specific plants: chili peppers, xtabentun, jool, and chilcahuite. These four plants, which were known for their magical properties, point to either a divination ritual or a "fix earth" ritual to bless the newly constructed ballcourt space and propitiate the gods for future activities. 

Needless to say, the chili pepper was a central part of Latin American cultures, being used for a wide variety of purposes. As such, the chili pepper can be used in a wide variety of spells, rituals, and rites. Use in spells to attract money, burn to ward off evil spirits and cleanse objects, leave as an offering to your ancestors or deities, or use in divination rituals or hedge riding. Scatter chili pepper seeds around your house to break hexes or prevent unwanted entities from entering, or hang dried chilis near entrances for similar purposes. Add to hot foot powders to force someone to leave.

Among these cultures, the chili pepper was also widely used in medicine, often to treat respiratory infections, break fevers, and alleviate digestive issues. In Aztec medicine, chili peppers were mixed with cacao and vanilla to create an aphrodisiac. In other cultures, men would rub raw chilis on their genitals to numb the surrounding area, allowing for prolonged sexual pleasure. As such, chili peppers can be used to 'heat up' spells and rituals, especially those related to love, lust, and sexual pleasure. Add to drinks and foods to enflame your lover or place in your bedroom for similar purposes.

It wasn't until much later that the chili pepper arrived in Europe via the Spice Route. The first samples to arrive were incredibly expensive and reserved almost exclusively for botanists and aristocrats. By the sixteenth century, European nobles were primarily growing chili peppers not as a food source, but as ornamental garden plants. However, the chili pepper spread to the countryside, where it became known as "the poor people's peppers" because it was used instead of the extremely expensive black pepper. The correspondences here are contradictory, being both expensive and cheap. As such, chili peppers would be beneficial in financial spells where you are looking to bring down the price of something or make something more affordable. You can also use chili peppers to alter one's opinion of something, changing their perceived value of the object.

Sadly, I have barely scratched the surface of chili pepper folklore, myth, and legend. Because 'chili pepper' is a broad term, there is no way I could possibly include all of the magical history associated with this wonderful genus of plants. As such, I encourage you to dive further into the chili pepper on your own, adding to the information I have shared with you today.

Chili peppers can be used in a number of spells, including:

      Protection Spells

      Exorcisms

      Money Magic

      Love Spells

Medicinal Uses: Chili pepper is a broad term, referring to a large number of edible peppers that contain capsaicin and are found in the Capsicum genus. When it comes to herbal remedies, Capsicum annuum, also known as cayenne pepper, is the most commonly used. 

Chili peppers are a counterirritant due to high levels of capsaicin, meaning that when they are applied externally to the skin, they cause irritation and swelling. While on the surface this sounds counterintuitive, it's actually beneficial when added to creams and salves to treat muscle aches and pains, as it helps increase circulation to the applied area, thus helping to heal and alleviate the pain. Due to the high levels of capsaicin, chili peppers are also used to treat nerve pain, especially nerve pain related to shingles and diabetes. However, this tonic is often only available through prescription. Chili peppers are also a stimulant and can be combined with other herbs to treat throat infections, fibromyalgia, and osteoarthritis, increase circulation, and strengthen the digestive system. As a diaphoretic, it is useful in ‘breaking’ a fever. As a carminative, chilli is also used to treat flatulence, dyspepsia, and colic. Please note that chili pepper is not recommended for use in people with gastric ulcers, hyperacidity, or hypertension.

Preparation and Dosage: To make an infusion, combine one-half to one teaspoon of dried chili pepper (cayenne pepper) with one cup of boiling water. Allow the mixture to infuse for up to 10 minutes. Strain and mix one tablespoon of this infusion in a cup of hot water. Drink up to 3 times a day. As a tincture, take between 0.25 and 1 milliliter combined with water up to 3 times a day. To create a salve, combine 1/2 cup of olive oil with 2 tablespoons of chili pepper (cayenne pepper powder). Gently heat the mixture over low heat, allowing it to warm completely before removing from the heat and allowing it to cool for 20 minutes. Repeat this process 3-5 more times, or allow the mixture to sit for a week in a sunny location. Strain and combine the oil with 1/2 ounce of beeswax in a double boiler and heat until the beeswax has melted and the mixture is well combined. Use to treat mild aches and pains, sore joints, bruises, and nerve pain. Do not touch your eyes or mucosal membranes, as it will cause burning. It is best to use gloves when working with and applying chili pepper remedies, followed by handwashing.

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Magical and Medicinal Uses of Cypress

Gender: Feminine

Planet: Saturn
Element: Earth
Powers: Comfort, Death, Eternity, Exorcism, Grief, Healing, Longevity, Mourning, Protection, Stability

Magical Uses and History: The cypress is well known as the "Tree of Mourning," showing up in graveyards across the world to help communicate with, manage, and ferry souls. Its association with death and grief is well-documented in the myths and legends passed down through history, the most famous of these detailing the life of Cyparissus. According to ancient Greek and Roman mythology, Cyparissus's grief after accidentally killing his beloved stag transformed him into a cypress tree. In some versions of the story, Apollo, who was in love with Cyparissus, transforms Cyparissus into a cypress tree so his tears may fall forever, as seen by the tear-shaped drops the sap forms as it dries. Cyparissu's story, however, is not the only connection the cypress has with grief.

Ancient coffins were constructed using cypress in both ancient Egypt and across Europe, and the branches were often carried and burned by mourners to send up prayers as well as fumigate after the deceased had been removed. Cypress trees were planted next to or overtop of graves and even in front of houses of the deceased. As such, cypress grew to not only be associated with grief, but also death and the Underworld. This practice of planting cypresses in graveyards is a tradition that carried over well into the Victorian period, with people growing to believe lost spirits took up refuge within its branches. Needless to say, cypress is a powerful ally in death and grief magic. It can be used in spells and rituals to honor the dead, as an offering, to ease your grief, or even to provide the deceased with luck and love in the afterlife. It can also be burned as an incense or added to spells and rituals to communicate with the dead, help them cross over, or to help relieve grief.

Not only is the cypress associated with death and loss, but also immortality, which seems contradictory until you dive into the folklore. The cypress, like other evergreens, does not lose its leaves in the winter months and remains green throughout the season, making it appear everlasting. Coupled with its notorious ability to live "forever," it is no wonder it became associated with immortality, perseverance, and strength. Some cypresses are estimated to be around 5,000 years old, making them among the oldest trees on earth. However, their association with death casts this symbolism in a different light. Not only is the cypress often used to promote longevity in users, but it is also a symbol of everlasting life after death. The cypress is often depicted in Zoroastrian artwork for this exact purpose, showing up on rugs, paintings, and more throughout history. In China, the cypress was also viewed as a symbol of longevity, resilience, and strength. It was often depicted in ancient Chinese literature to represent a person of strong moral character, or in paintings to symbolize perseverance. As such, cypress can be used in spells, rituals, and rites for similar purposes. Anoint candles with cypress oil or dried plant parts to reinforce spells or to bring resilience, use cypress smoke to strengthen resolve, fortify boundaries, and help with overall endurance, or carry the wood to lengthen your life.

Finally, cypress is associated with protection and has even been used in exorcisms. Among several Native American traditions, cypress groves were places of refuge. The tree was thought to shelter humans from both physical dangers and spiritual harm, and was often used to build shelters and canoes, as the wood is durable and water-resistant. Cypress wood was used for protective charms, and its presence near water was seen as a natural guardian spirit that watched over travelers, hunters, and those venturing into liminal spaces. Some stories describe the cypress as a tree that absorbs negativity and anchors wandering spirits, keeping malevolent forces at bay. During the medieval period, known mystic and physician Hildegard of Bingen used cypress to exorcise "diabolical or magical forces" from people. Wood was taken from the heart of the tree, a hole was drilled, and water was poured through it while speaking an incantation over the person. As such, cypress can be used in spells and rituals to cleanse one's home and objects, banish negative energies, and shield oneself during spirit work or divination. Burn as an incense to strengthen boundaries, dispel unwanted energies, and clear space, or carry on your person for protection.

Cypress can be used in a number of spells, including:

      Death Spells

      Protection Spells

      Exorcisms

      Ancestor Magic & Communication

      Healing Magic

      Longevity Spells

Medicinal Uses: It is important to note that several varieties of cypress are toxic and therefore should not be ingested unless under the guidance of a professional or if you have sourced your plant material from a reputable source. Cypress has long been used in herbal medicine as an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and astringent, as well as a decongestant. As a decongestant, cypress is used to treat coughs, colds, flu, bronchitis, and general respiratory congestion. As an antiseptic, it can be used externally to treat minor cuts and abrasions, ulcers, bruises, and even acne. Today, cypress is most often used in the form of essential oil, which is diluted in a carrier oil and used to treat topical issues or diffused to treat congestion.

Preparation and Dosage: Internally, cypress bark and leaves can be taken as an infusion. Combine 1 tablespoon with 1.5 cups of boiling water. Allow the mixture to infuse for 5 minutes before drinking no more than 3 times a day for a couple of days. Again, cypress is often toxic, so please consult a professional before using it internally. Externally, cypress can be diluted with a carrier oil and applied directly to the body to treat muscle aches and pains, mild cuts and bruises, and acne. It can also be diffused or added to steam to treat respiratory issues. Cypress essential oil is unsafe to diffuse around pets, so use caution when using.

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Magical and Medicinal Uses of Black Pepper

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Powers: Clarity, Courage, Exorcism, Protection, Strength, Wealth

Magical Uses and History: Often referred to as the "king of spices," black pepper has a long and rich, yet mythical history. Much like misinformation is spread today to sway public opinion, it was used to convince the public that black pepper was more than it seemed. 

While black pepper was historically a rare commodity,  available only to the nobility, it remained in demand through the use of myth. According to legends, black pepper could only be harvested by setting the pepper trees on fire to drive away venomous snakes that guarded the delicate spice. During the burning process, the otherwise white peppercorns turned dry, shriveled, and black. Because so many trees were lost during the burning, the cost and time to replant them had to be factored into the price. This legend spread quickly through mainstream culture, and while we cannot be sure where it originated or if it was entirely believed, it was enough to keep the price high. The cost of black pepper was so high that it was often used as currency to pay rent, taxes, doweries, and even ransoms, as seen during the 5th century AD when Visigoths demanded it after sacking the Western Roman Empire. Because of its value, it became known as "black gold," symbolizing wealth and power. As such, black pepper can be added to spells and rituals for wealth, money, and prosperity. Add whole peppercorns to your wallet, purse, or cash register to attract wealth. Add to spell bags and bottles for wealth and prosperity, keep in your kitchen to ensure abundance flows freely, or steep in oil to create a success-attracting oil.

Apart from being a symbol of wealth, prosperity, and abundance, black pepper was also used for protection. Due to its sharp, fiery qualities, black pepper is thought to drive away evil and unwanted spirits and has even been used to break curses. In hoodoo, black pepper is often added to Hot Foot powders to bring an uncomfortable "heat" to the target's life or to salt to prevent evil or unwanted guests from entering or returning to your home. Keep a jar of black pepper corns near your hearth or entrance to guard the home, sprinkle along thresholds to prevent unwanted guests from entering, burn to banish unwanted energy, or add to other spells and rituals for banishment, hex breaking, or removal. Black pepper combines well with other banishing herbs to create a potent incense or banishment oil.

Finally, black pepper was also a symbol of health and medicine, used to treat a wide range of ailments from digestive issues to respiratory problems and even pain. In ancient Greece and Rome, black pepper was used to stimulate the digestive system, helping aid in digestion, reduce excess gas, and alleviate stomach pain. In Ayurvedic medicine, it was believed to help balance the three doshas known as Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. As such, it was revered for its general digestive and respiratory aid, helping to clear congestion, support the immune system, and bring overall wellness to the user. Across cultures, black pepper was also widely used to treat fevers due to its warming nature that was thought to promote sweating and therefore "break" a fever. Today, black pepper is used much the same way, and therefore can be used in spells and rituals for healing, health, and general wellness. Due to its warming nature, black pepper can also be used to bring heat to a spell. Add black pepper to teas, tinctures, baths, spell bags or jars, or burn with other spices such as sage or rosemary for similar purposes.

Black pepper can be used in a number of spells, including:

      Money Spells

      Protection Spells

      Exorcism

      Strengthen Spells & Rituals

Medicinal Uses: Black pepper contains piperine, the alkaloid responsible for black pepper's well-known flavor. Piperine is an antioxidant and a bioavailability enhancer, meaning it helps with the absorption of other compounds such as curcumin, resveratrol, and other minerals and vitamins. It is also an anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and has been found to increase digestion through the stimulation of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. As such, it is often used to treat indigestion, bloating, and gas. As an anti-inflammatory, it has been shown to reduce the symptoms associated with arthritis, diabetes, and neurodegenerative diseases. Piperine may also help with the regulation of blood sugar, improving insulin sensitivity, and reducing blood sugar spikes. As an expectorant and decongestant, black pepper can be used to treat colds, cough, asthma, and mild flu symptoms. As an antimicrobial and antibacterial, black pepper is effective at improving overall oral health and reducing gingivitis and gum disease. 

It should be noted that despite black pepper's ability to help with the absorption of certain nutrients, it can interfere with the absorption of certain medications. Please consult your doctor or a credible herbalist before including it in your herbal remedy practice.

Preparation and Dosage: To create an infusion, combine one cup of boiling water with 1/2 teaspoon of crushed black pepper. Allow the infusion to steep for 10-15 minutes. Drink up to three times a day. As a tincture, take 0.5 to 1 mL in water or tea up to three times a day. Black pepper combines well with honey, cinnamon, turmeric, and ginger. Externally, black pepper essential oil can be diluted in a carrier oil and used as a massage oil to reduce pain and inflammation.

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Magical and Medicinal Uses of Pine

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Mars
Element: Air
Powers: Exorcism, Fertility, Immortality, Longevity, Peace, Protection, Resilience

Magical Uses and History: The pine tree is an evergreen gymnosperm, meaning it doesn't lose its leaves during the winter months and produces cones instead of flowers. The genus Pinus evolved sometime at the end of the Cretaceous in Laurasia, a supercontinent that broke into North America and Asia. There are numerous species of pines, each with its own unique folklore, but some of their correspondences overlap heavily among different cultures. One of these correspondences includes longevity and everlasting life.

As previously mentioned, pines are evergreens, keeping their leaves throughout the winter months instead of losing them like deciduous trees. This perpetual state of vibrant life, even in the harshest conditions, gave rise to the idea that pines were a symbol of immortality, longevity, and perseverance. In Chinese culture, pine is regarded as one of the "Three Companions of Winter," as it was able to survive the harsh, unrelenting cold and wind of winter, standing upright in even the worst of conditions, leading to its association with perseverance and integrity. According to Confucius, "Only in the cold winter does one know that the pine and the cypress are the last to shed their leaves," meaning that harsh environments are a test of human character.

Across the continent in Phrygia (modern Turkey), the pine was deeply connected with the mortal-become-god Attis. According to some myths, unbeknownst to Attis, Cybele fell in love with him as she watched him grow. Eventually, Attis fell in love with another, King Pessinus' beautiful daughter, which made Cybele incredibly jealous. As punishment, Cybele drove Attis mad, causing him to run crazy through the mountains, where he finally stopped at the base of a pine tree, where he castrated himself and later died from his wounds. From Attis' blood arose the first violets, while the pine tree watched over Attis' spirit as Zeus resurrected his body as a favor to Cybele. Attis then becomes Cybele's consort, representing death and resurrection in the yearly cycle. To celebrate his rebirth, the priests of Cybele and Attis would cut down a pine tree, cover it in violet, and bring it to the shrine at Mt. Dindymus. This myth was later adopted by both the Romans and Greeks, further integrating the pine as a symbol of everlasting life.

In more recent history, the pine has become a symbol of perseverance among the Japanese as they have survived both the earthquake and the tsunami in March of 2011, which left the city of Rikuzentakata in ruin. The surrounding forest of roughly 70,000 pine trees was completely destroyed except for one lone pine, which became the national symbol of resilience and strength. Unfortunately, the tree later died due to root rot caused by excessive salt buildup, and it was cut down in September 2012, but the symbolism still remains.

Older Japanese pine myths also speak of the pine's association with immortality, more specifically with their use as homes to the kami, Shinto gods and goddesses. According to Shinto belief, the kami use the branches of pines to descend to earth and often reside in the branches. As such, it is customary to see at least one pine in every Shinto shrine. Furthermore, the pine is viewed as a watcher who brings people together and watches over their lives and souls in death. Despite the fleeting life of humans, the pine remains steadfast, fostering its association with longevity and immortality. Because of its connection to the spirit realm, pine makes a great addition to altars, spells, and rituals to honor deities or ancestors, for spirit communication, or during funeral rites.

In Egypt, pine resin was used as a component in embalming mixtures, helping to preserve bodies long after death. Across the Mediterranean, pine resin was used to waterproof ships and seal joints, while the wood of pines was prized for its ability to withstand decay. As such, pine became associated with Poseidon, god of the sea, and was often included in festivals and rituals dedicated to said deity. Needless to say, each of these uses further supports pine's correspondences with immortality, resilience, longevity, and perseverance. As such, pine can be used in spells and rituals to promote immortality and resilience, or to enhance the longevity and resilience of a spell. Pinecones collected during midsummer were believed to make a person bulletproof, and therefore can be used in protection spells as well as immortality spells. Furthermore, its ability to resist decay and water damage makes pine ideal for spells and rituals to protect travelers, particularly those who will be traveling on the water or swimming. Pinecones and needles can be fashioned into protection charms and hung about the sea vessel or given to the person to wear.

While many cultures view the pine as a symbol of immortality, others regard it as a symbol of peace and prosperity. In North America, the Haudenosaunee, known in the West as the Iroquois, recount the story of Dekanawidah, who united the five warring tribes with the aid of a white pine known as the Tree of Peace. According to the stories, which combine both reality and myth, Dekanawidah called the warring tribes together to meet under the Tree of Peace, which was uprooted so all who attended could cast aside their weapons into the gaping hole left behind by the giant white pine. An underground stream carried their weapons away as the tree was replanted. Its roots stretched far and wide out into the cardinal directions, while its branches grew to encompass all those below. The needles grew in groups of five, representing the five nations that had come together in peace. On top of the tree perched an eagle who acts as a protector of the Peace. If any other nation wished to join the League, they would have to follow these Great White Roots of Peace to the source and shelter beneath the tree. As such, pine, specifically white pine, has become associated with peace.

Because of the pinecone's phallic shape, some cultures viewed the pine as a symbol of sexuality and lust, particularly masculine sexuality. The Greeks and Romans used pinecones to tip thyrsus wands or staves of the maenads, or women followers of Dionysus, the god of prosperity, fertility, and hedonism. These wands and staves were used during sacred religious rituals and fêtes, and are believed to have represented Dionysus's potent masculine sexuality. Across the continent, pine was commonly planted after a couple was wed, sometimes near the door where the wedding was taking place, to encourage a healthy and fruitful marriage. As such, pine needles and cones can be carried to increase fertility and sexual potency, particularly for men, or used in spells and rituals for similar purposes.

Finally, the pine is associated with protection. While I cannot find specific lore detailing where this lore originated, it is likely because of the pine's association with immortality. If the pine encourages an extended life, then it stands to reason that it can protect the user as well. Pine needles are often burned or scattered on the floor to drive away evil or unwanted negative energy, or used in baths to cleanse. Pine needles can also be burned to reverse spells and even send them back to their caster. Placing pine needles above one's bed is said to prevent illness, or placing them above doors, windows, and fireplaces to keep unwanted entities out. Because of its association with protection, it is partially believed that the pine was brought inside during Yule or Christmas, not only as a symbol of joy and immortality, but also to protect the inhabitants of the home during the long and dark winter months when untoward spirits were said to roam freely in the night. Needless to say, pine is the perfect addition to protection spells and rituals.

Pine can be used in a number of spells, including:

      Lust Spells

      Protection Spells

      Exorcism

      Immortality Magic

      Peace Spells

      Fertility Rituals

Medicinal Uses: Many varieties of pine can be used in herbal medicine, but for the sake of this article, I am going to focus on the medicinal properties of Pinus sylvestris, also known as Scots Pine, Scotch Pine, Baltic Pine, or European Red Pine. If you wish to use a different pine variety, please consult reputable sources or an herbalist before creating any remedies. Scots pine needles, young buds, and twigs can be used to treat respiratory infections such as bronchitis, upper respiratory infections, and sinusitis, and some studies have found it useful in treating asthma symptoms. This is due to the needles' anti-catarrhal properties, which help relieve inflammation of the mucous membranes and reduce and remove mucous from the body. Its stimulating nature also makes it good at treating arthritis and rheumatism, both internally and externally. Traditionally, Scots pine needles have been added to baths to relieve fatigue, anxiety, and insomnia. It is also naturally antiseptic, making it a great wash for minor cuts and scrapes.

Preparation and Dosage: To create an infusion, combine 1 cup of boiling water with 1/5 teaspoon of needles. Allow to infuse for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink up to three times a day. As a tincture, take 1-2 milliliters up to three times a day. To create a steam inhalant, bring 2-3 cups of twigs to a boil with 4 pints of water. Simmer for 5 minutes before draping your head with a towel over the pot and inhaling the steam for 15 minutes. Repeat as needed. To create a bath tea, combine 3 handfuls of twigs and needles with 1.5 pints of water and soak for one hour. After an hour, bring the infusion to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes before adding it to your bathwater.

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