Transitioning from Spring to Summer: Herbal Remedies for the Season of Dreaming High

Keats described each season in his poetic works, referring to summer as a time of "dreaming high," which refers to summer as a time of gaining sense or enlightenment. This description of growing nearer to heaven is often used in poetry as a metaphor to describe growing into adulthood, finding yourself, and becoming sensible. As the sun grows ever stronger in the sky, life blossoms and fruit ripens on the vine. Summer is a celebration of abundance, growth, fruition, vitality, radiance, and the manifestation of efforts. This makes it a great time to work with plant allies to revitalize, cool, and nourish your body, mind, and spirit for the changes ahead, as well as get in touch with the magic of the season.

In today's post, I offer 3 herbal recipes to aid your transition from spring to summer. These recipes can be used to create a variety of remedies, including salves, oxymels, steams, baths, tisanes (teas), or tinctures. It's completely up to you how to use these recipes, but I encourage you to consult with the spirits of the plants, your intuition, and even your ancestors or spiritual guides to determine which preparation method is best for you. While taking it as a tisane may be best for me, you may need to use it as a steam.

For Revitalizing Your Inner Spark 

As the days begin to grow longer and the weather warms, you may feel that irresistible urge to make plans and take action. Sometimes actually getting started can feel like a chore as we try to shake off the last bit of winter and accept the full brilliance of summer. This recipe is specifically designed to help revitalize that inner spark, whether you need help getting started or finishing a task or if you feel yourself faltering on the goals you set in the spring. St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a quiescently summer flower, its bright yellow blooms being associated with fire, happiness, joy, and revitalization and has been known to help reduce the symptoms of mood disorders such as depression. Combined with lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora), which attracts positivity and uplifts the spirit, and holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum), which improves mental clarity and resilience, the resulting recipe will remove blockages and reignite your inner spark.

2 parts St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum)

2 parts lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora)

1 part holy basil/tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum)

For Restoring Your Inner Oasis

Here in Georgia, the transition from spring to summer is not slow, but a harsh snap that leaves one quickly clambering to turn on the air conditioning. This herbal recipe includes several cooling yet rehydrating herbs to help you cool off when the weather is hot and restore your fluids to maintain proper hydration. Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) contains high levels of a natural humectant known as mucilage which helps attract and retain water, especially when applied to the skin. Fennel seed (Foeniculum vulgare), while it may have slight diuretic properties, helps to flush toxins and encourages fluid intake, while rose (Rosa spp.), like marshmallow, helps hydrate while also reducing inflammation and soothing the heart and mind, allowing you to restore your inner oasis.

1 part marshmallow leaf or flower (Althaea officinalis)

2 parts marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis)

1 part fennel seed (Foeniculum vulgare)

1/4 part rose petals (Rosa spp.)

For Easing the Inner Burn

While the Sun is not at its full strength as we transition from spring to summer, He still has the ability to cause unsuspecting burns, both literally and figuratively. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus), chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium), and peppermint (Mentha piperita) are all naturally cooling herbs, both internally and externally, making this recipe perfect for soothing hot tempers, fevers, and even burns. Early research suggests that not only is chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium) an anti-inflammatory and fever-reducer, but it may even help protect against UVB radiation! Combined with peppermint's (Mentha piperita) ability to stimulate cold receptors on the skin, you have a potent remedy for whatever heats your body.

1 part lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)

1/2 part chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium)

1/2 part peppermint (Mentha piperita)

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As the wheel turns toward summer, these recipes can help ensure you are happy and healthy for the coming months. 

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Magical and Medicinal Uses of Cumin

Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Powers: Anti-theft, Death, Exorcism, Fidelity, Healing, Love, Lust, Money, Protection

Magical Uses and History: Cumin, like most spices, has a long and rich history of being used in magic and medicine. While we cannot be certain exactly where cumin originated, it is believed to have come from Central Asia, Southwestern Asia, or the Eastern Mediterranean based on historical documents and archeological findings. 

For the Minoans of Ancient Crete, cumin was important enough that royal stores were precisely documented, which, coupled with traces of cumin found in ancient cooking pots, suggests it was prized for its culinary uses and potentially its healing properties. While cheaper than black pepper, cumin was still expensive, expensive enough that it was often used to pay debts. References to it as a currency show up in the Bible where it appears briefly in Matthew 23:23, which reads, "...For ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin..." Later, a pound of cumin could be used in Medieval England to pay rent for a year's tenancy, which apparently continued for quite some time before falling out of style as the price of the spice decreased. Cumin's association with money is also seen in Roman Emperor Antoninus Pius's nickname  "cumin splitter," which referenced his fastidiousness and economical nature. He was known for calling out the improper use of pubic funds and carefully scrutinizing the use of all resources to ensure they were not being wasted. Its value and use of currency associates cumin with money and therefore can be used in spells and rituals for money or even used as a money substitute in spells.

While priced for its culinary uses, cumin was also commonly used to treat a variety of ailments. Ancient Egyptians used it for gastrointestinal issues ranging from stomach upset and nausea to ridding of intestinal parasites. It was also used in mouth rinses and even ear instillations to treat ear infections. Pliny the Elder recommended cumin not only for its "fastidious taste" but also for its ability to treat stomach aches. Like the Egyptians, Pliny suggested mixing crushed cumin with water to create a tonic. According to ancient Ayurvedic texts, cumin was used for similar purposes, but also to enhance appetite, digestion, and lactation. By the Medieval period, healers were mixing it with wine and calling it a cure-all! Needless to say, cumin was well known for its healing abilities, making it the perfect addition to healing spells and rituals, particularly those related to gastrointestinal issues.

According to the Greeks, cumin symbolizes excessive desire, while later folklore suggests that cumin "conferred the gift of retention," aka faithfulness. During the Middle Ages, Europeans used cumin in recipes to keep lovers faithful. Cumin cakes were often given to lovers before they left for an extended period of time to keep them faithful and ensure a safe return. It was also carried by brides and grooms on their wedding day to ensure a happy, faithful marriage. However, it wasn't just retention of a partner that cumin was used for. It was also used to entrap burglars by placing cumin within valuable objects and feeding it to livestock, particularly birds, to prevent them from wandering away. Apart from ensuring fidelity, cumin was also added to wine and foods to inspire lust. This is most likely due to its warming properties and it being a mild aphrodisiac. As such, cumin can be used in spells and rituals for love, lust, fidelity, and retention. Add cumin to spell jars to protect against theft or loss, add to recipes to induce love and ensure fidelity, keep under your bed or in a spell bag in the bedroom to inspire lust and keep a partner faithful, or burn in similar spells.

Its healing properties, coupled with its ability to retain, also lend to its use in protection spells and rituals across cultures, as well as its use in hex/curse breaking and exorcisms. In ancient Egypt, cumin was often used in the mummification process, not only to help with the process but also to protect those who had been mummified, especially from grave robbers. In Germany and Italy, cumin was added to bread to keep spirits and the fae from stealing it. In other places, cumin was burned for protection or scattered around the home to drive out evil and protect against witches. As such, cumin can be used in spells and rituals for protection and hex breaking. It can be burned as an incense, crushed and rolled into spell candles, added to spell bags and jars, mixed with water, vinegar, or alcohol to create a cleansing spray, carried on your person to ward off evil and bad luck, or even hidden in expensive belongings to ensure their safety. 

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

   Hex Breaking

   Love Spells

   Lust Magic

   Protection Magic

   Healing Spells

   Exorcisms

Medicinal Uses: Cumin, like other warming spices, is naturally anti-inflammatory, high in antioxidants, anti-diabetic, antibacterial, and nephroprotective, which makes it great for promoting digestion, reducing the risk of food-borne illness, improving blood sugar, reducing cholesterol levels, and promoting weight loss. As an anti-inflammatory, studies show that cumin can suppress the NF-KB signaling pathway, which reduces the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, thus lowering inflammation. As a nephroprotective, cumin helps protect the kidneys from damage by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis. Furthermore, cumin helps stimulate digestive enzymes and bile production, aiding in the breakdown and absorption of food. This makes it the perfect herb to combat indigestion, nausea, morning sickness, irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues.

Preparation and Dosage: To create an infusion, combine 1/2 teaspoon crushed cumin seeds with 1 cup water and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and allow the infusion to simmer for 5 minutes before removing from the heat and allowing to cool to a drinkable temperature. Strain and drink up to three times a day. Cumin seeds can also be chewed directly for relief. As a tincture, take 1 milliliter up to 4 times a day.

Want to print a copy of this for your Book of Shadows? Click below for your free copy!

*You may notice there is a new design. This is because I lost access to Photoshop when I upgraded my computer, and I am now relying on Canva. From here on out, all printables will be made in Canva and will have the design seen above. I did my best to replicate exactly what I created before, so theme-wise it should work well with my other printables and not take away from the aesthetic. 

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Book Review: Gay Witchcraft by Christopher Penczak

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Recently, Weiser released an updated version of Gay Witchcraft by Christopher Penczak, which I had the opportunity to read! While there have been changes made from the original text, Penczak makes it clear that he didn't want to erase any of the original flaws with the book, noting that language changes with time. Despite this, there is an attempt made to make notes where modern language has changed and how the occult community has changed with it. I greatly appreciated this, and it clues the reader in (if they read the new introduction) that they should still read with a critical eye.

Gay Witchcraft is incredibly Wiccan-inspired, from its approach to ritual, Wheel of the Year, God and Goddess aspects, and even some of the language around ethics. I am not a fan of Wiccan-inspired practices, but I did find value in what Penczak has to say regarding queer culture and inclusion in occult practices. The book opens with the traditional history lesson, but Penczak makes it clear that the history he is relaying is not for academics, but his personal interpretations of the research he has done. Its important to note that queer and occult history has been largely erased, which makes it difficult to get a true idea of what previous civilizations regarded as acceptable. There is absolutely no doubt that other cultures historically respected queer individuals, and Penczak attempts to shed light on this history as best he can given the circumstances. While more ancient history is hard to piece together, modern history and the queer movement within the occult is not. The more modern history is riddled with important information, providing the reader with an excellent overview of queer witchcraft with foundational material/book recommendations.

This is followed by the traditional breakdown of what magic and witchcraft are, as well as the general practices, beliefs, and commonalities among witches who practice a Wiccan-inspired path. It is in this section that Penczak mentions that many modern witches are now shying away from the terms "black" and "white" magic because "They smack of racism and white European ethnocentricity." And "...our history should be kept in mind when looking at folkloric and academic resources that use the labels black or white magick." Yes, yes, yes! Say it again for those in the back! As with most things occult-related, there was an attempt made specifically by white Europeans to separate their magic from that of the "heathens," aka people of color. As such, the terms "black" and "white" arose to separate white European magic as "good" and all other forms of "low" magic as "bad." I appreciate Penczak for including this information and hope that the message of intersectionality makes it across to all readers.

Despite the mention of the racism behind "black & white" magic, Penczak still includes chakras in his book, which belongs to Hinduism. While Hinduism is not necessarily a closed practice, it is considered cultural appropriation as it is taken out of the context of the history and culture from which it is derived, and Penczak is profiting from incorporating such practices in his book. I glossed over these sections as I knew they would not be for me. However, this ties back with what Penczak mentioned in his new introduction about not erasing his mistakes, so once again, read with a critical eye. It would have been wise to include a note on cultural appropriation somewhere in the first section addressing chakras, but alas, there is not.

As with most introductory witchcraft books, Penczak includes basic meditation techniques, key concepts of ritual and spell making, casting a circle, the elements, basic spells and spell writing techniques, charm bags, potion recipes, and invocations. There is nothing particularly new or innovative here, so if you are a well-practiced witch, I would suggest skimming these sections. If you are new to witchcraft and are interested in Wiccan-inspired practices, then by all means, dive right in. My only issue with any of these chapters was the anti-curse rhetoric. I strongly disagree with this rhetoric because it is also inherently Eurocentric and a racist viewpoint, just as "black and white" magic is. This is very common in Wicca, which tries to justify its existence through false history and anti-blackness rhetoric (we are better than those "heathens"). Jinxes, curses, and hexes have long been used by oppressed people to seek justice within the confines of an unjust system. They are a time and place and are not inherently evil.

Despite this, there were some chapters commonly found in other introductory witchcraft books that are particularly new and relative to witches, especially queer ones. Penczak includes a chapter on queer-friendly deities as well as a break down of creation myths and their possibly queer interpretations. I thoroughly enjoyed these chapters, as it shed new light on my own understanding of our history and folklore, thus broadening my world-view in the process. As a queer witch myself, Penczak deliberately includes bisexual representation, which I appreciated greatly as more often than not we are erased, especially bi individuals such as myself who are in a heterosexual passing relationship. Penczak offers a variety of deities and myths across multiple cultures, so there is something for everyone. This inclusion across cultures is beautiful and only goes to show us that despite monotheism's desire to erase other deities, queer history, and women, we still managed to prevail across time and space.

This same approach is taken when discussing the Wheel of the Year. Penczak looks at same-sex imagery in the Wheel of the Year by looking at Greek and Celtic mythos and even how gender plays a role in magic. He discusses how we are not bound by our sex or gender in ritual and magic and transformation is encouraged as practitioners take on the aspects needed to enhance one's magical practices, damn the patriarchy! He states that we should "be bound only by the powers of your imagination," even shedding our human form and merging with that of an animal (this ritual dance wearing animal skins).

Gay Witchcraft concludes with a beautiful chapter on rites of passage, which includes coming of age and coming out rites, which is so incredibly important to the queer community, handfasting, dedication ritual, ending a relationship, funeral rites, even exploring heterosexuality! Exploring heterosexuality also discusses bisexuality and the struggles bisexual individuals face, "having to choose sides," and "bi erasure." It also includes a very small section on magic and activism, which needed to be much longer than three paragraphs!

While I am not Wiccan, nor do I aspire to ever include Wiccan-based practices back into my practice and faith, I thoroughly appreciated Gay Witchcraft by Christopher Penczak and believe it is a book many young and old witches alike need in their lives. This new updated edition is one I would recommend for your shelf, even if all it does is broaden your world view and inspire empathy for those not like you. Heck, it might even help you become more you in the process.

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3 Tea Rituals for Peace, Tranquility, and Relaxation

Between grieving, state-mandated testing, my wedding on the horizon, and the constant droning of more bad news trickling down the pipeline, I have been stressed, and that's putting it lightly. I know I am not alone in this boat, and one of the best ways I relieve stress is through purposeful rituals, especially those that involve tea! There is nothing quite like a warm, steaming mug to help me recenter and let go of the tension of the day.

In today's post, I share three such recipes and their rituals to help bring peace, tranquility, stress relief, and grounding to your life. As with everything, feel free to modify these recipes and rituals to suit your needs. I have offered some Warnings, Modifications, and Alternatives where possible. This should not be expensive or difficult, as that just adds more stress. Modify, modify, modify, and make these rituals your own so you can build a sustainable practice.

Evening Exhale: A Tea Ritual for Letting Go of the Day

Creating routines and rituals around bedtime can help put you into a state of relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. There are a whole host of herbs that can be used to induce relaxation and promote sleep, but I have found none as great as chamomile and valerian root. Both are naturally relaxing, helping to lower blood pressure, remove tension, and quiet the mind. Valerian root contains compounds that may interact with the brain's GABA signaling pathway, the neurotransmitter that helps calm the nervous system, by stimulating the production of GABA and blocking the enzyme that breaks it down. Valerian root may also interact with serotonin and adenosine receptors, the hormones responsible for regulating mood and sleep and making you feel tired, thus leading to a more restful sleep overall. This tea is paired with a quick candle ritual and breathing exercise that will help you feel relaxed and ready for bed in no time!

Ingredients:

• 1 part chamomile
  
• 1 part valerian root
• Candle
• Match/lighter

Instructions:

1. Light the candle and dim the lights.
2. As your tea steeps, stir it counter-clockwise and say, "The day is done. I release all burdens so I may rest in peace."
3. Sip the tea slowly, feeling its warmth travel through you, your muscles relaxing and the tension leaving your body. Visualize your stress and the burdens of the day leaving you with each exhale.
4. When finished, go promptly to bed.

Warnings/Modifications/Alternatives:

• A "sleepy time" blend is easily substituted in this recipe, or you can find chamomile and valerian root are easily found in grocery stores as tea if you do not have loose herbs already on hand.
• Do not use chamomile if you are allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, or daisies. Chamomile can be replaced with lemon balm.
• You can include breathing exercises in this ritual to further relax you.
• If you cannot use fire, a tea light works just as well.
  
  

Heart of the Forest: A Tea Ritual for Grounding & Tranquility

Nature is one of a witch's greatest teachers. Not only does she teach us to let go and that change is inevitable, she also teaches us the value of slowing down, of pausing. The Earth itself is also a great grounding force, allowing us to connect with it and let go of all that ails us. This grounding ritual is paired with a nettle and green tea, which produces a beautiful green hue to go along with the green that is our Earth. Green tea, while slightly caffeinated, helps relieve stress primarily due to the amino acid L-theanine. L-theanine helps to reduce stress-related hormones and neuron excitement in the brain, leading to a sense of calm and relaxation. Stinging nettles help lower your blood pressure and reduce general inflammation. Because stinging nettle is rich in nutrients like calcium, iron, and magnesium, it helps the body cope with stress and return to a balanced state long-term. Combined, they bring tranquility to the mind and body.

Ingredients:

• 1 part green tea
• 1/2 part stinging nettle

Instructions:

1. Go outside with your steaming mug of tea and firmly plant both feet on the ground, or sit comfortably. 
2. Holding your steeping mug in your hand, gently press it to your chest, feeling your heart beat and the gentle warmth of your tea spread across your chest.
3. Take a deep breath in through your nose for four seconds, hold your breath for four seconds, and then exhale through your nose for four seconds. This is known as box breathing, which has been found to increase your awareness and reduce stress.
4. As you continue box breathing, feel the stress leave your face, then your jaw, then your shoulders, slowly releasing the tension as you move down your body. Push that stress out through your feet (or other low-touching point) and into the Earth.
5. Visualize roots sprouting from your body and connecting you with the Earth. Feel the Earth's energy enter your body, evening your heartbeat, and uplifting your mood, and say, "Like the trees, I am steady. Like the earth, I am rooted."
6. Sip your tea, drinking in this awareness. Between sips, gaze at something green, soaking in the grounding tranquility of nature.

Warnings/Modifications/Alternatives:

• Altering your breathing can cause a reduction in blood pressure, which can cause you to pass out. It can also trigger seizures in some people and PTSD in others. If you are worried about passing out, begin this exercise by lying down. I also suggest practicing with a friend to ensure your safety.
• Green tea contains about 30mg of caffeine. If you are sensitive to caffeine, you can remove it completely. White tea contains slightly less caffeine and can be used as a replacement.
• Those with chronic anxiety may experience increased anxiety with caffeine use.
• If you cannot perform this ritual outside, working near a window will work just as well, or you can use a grounding crystal such as hematite, black tourmaline, obsidian, shungite, or smoky quartz.
• Herbal alternatives include pine needles, peppermint, or lemon balm.

Release and Receive: A Tea Ritual for Rest and Renewal

This quick tea ritual combines the renewing properties of rooibos tea, the self-love properties of roses, and the calming properties of oatstraw to produce a potent mixture that removes blockages and leaves you open to renewal. This tea is paired with a fire ritual in which you write down what is weighing you down and burn it to release it. Fire is a great way to get rid of blockages and burdens, but if you cannot use fire, there are some alternative suggestions in the Warnings/Modifications/Alternatives section.

Ingredients:

• 1 part rooibos tea
• 1/2 part rose petals
• 1/2 part oatstraw
• Candle
• Lighter/match
• Paper
• Writing utensil
• Fire-safe dish

Instructions:

1. While your tea is brewing, light the candle. On the piece of paper, write down one or more things you are ready to release or let go of.
2. Fold the paper in half away from you and place it under your mug.
3. Stir your tea counterclockwise while saying, "I release what weighs me down. I make space for rest and ease."
4. As you begin sipping your tea, imagine the weight being released from your body as your muscles relax. Visualize yourself lighter and open to receiving peace.
5. When you are finished, burn the paper in a fire-safe dish.

Warnings/Modifications/Alternatives:

• Be mindful when working with fire. He is sometimes fickle and can easily get away from you if you aren't paying attention. Use a fire-safe dish and always have water, a fire extinguisher, or sand nearby in case of emergency.
• If you cannot use fire, you can drown your burdens in water and flush them down the toilet.
• Herbal alternatives include lavender, chamomile, or passionflower.

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Self-care is an act of self-love and is the first step in mutual aid. We cannot take care of others before we have filled our own cup. Take the time you need to rest, relax, and rejuvenate in these unprecedented times (yeah, I want to live in "precedented" times too...I am so exhausted.). You are worth the time it takes, and you are not lazy for resting. Don't let capitalism fool you.

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Magical Properties of Howlite

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