Potions & Powders ~ Lesson 2: Necessary Tools & Ingredients for Magical Potion Making

Potions & Powders ~ Lesson 2: Necessary Tools & Ingredients for Magical Potion Making

Herbs and Their Correspondences

*** Absolutely DO NOT ingest anything listed here (or anywhere else, for that matter) unless you know for a fact that they are safe for ingestion. Do your own research, have discussions with professional herbalists, consult with any doctor, pharmacist, or alternative physician, etc. if you don’t know about any, or all, in particular.

For the cover-my-butt legal disclaimer; I, and anyone associated with this site, are in no way, shape or form, responsible for how YOU use these herbs (in fresh or dried plant or oil form), plants, and trees, etc. for yourself or anyone you may deal with personally or professionally. It is YOUR responsibility to make sure of a plant’s safety. For all practical purposes, the herbs, plants, trees, and the potions make there from, etc. that are listed here are specifically and only to be used for magical practices, such as, but not limited to, spellwork correspondences, incenses, infused oils, and candle dressings. ***

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What are Carrier Oils?

A carrier oil is a vegetable oil derived from the fatty portion of a plant, usually from the seeds, kernels or the nuts.

If applied to the skin undiluted, essential oils, absolutes, CO2s and other concentrated aromatics can cause severe irritation or reactions in some individuals. Carrier oils are used to dilute essential and other oils prior to application. They carry the essential oil onto the skin.

Each carrier oil offers a different combination of therapeutic properties and characteristics. The choice of carrier oil can depend on the therapeutic benefit being sought.

Natural lotions, creams, body oils, bath oils, lip balms and other moisturizing skin care products are also made using vegetable (carrier) oils. From a simple essential oil/carrier oil blend to a more complex natural lotion, your choice of carrier oil can make a difference in the therapeutic properties, color, overall aroma and shelf life of your final product.

Essential vs. Carrier Oils
Essential oils are distilled from the leaves, bark, roots and other aromatic portions of a botanical. Essential oils evaporate and have a concentrated aroma. Carrier oils, on the other hand, are pressed from the fatty portions (seeds, nuts, kernels) and do not evaporate or impart their aroma as strongly as essential oils. Carrier oils can go rancid over time, but essential oils do not. Instead, essential oils "oxidize" and lose their therapeutic benefits, but they don't go rancid.

Vegetable Oils/Fixed Oils/Base Oils
The term carrier oil is generally limited to use within the practice of aromatherapy. In natural skin care, carrier oils are typically referred to as vegetable oils, fixed oils or base oils. Not all fixed oils/base oils are vegetable oils. Emu oil (from the emu bird) and fish (marine) oils are also classified as fixed/base oils.

The Aroma of Carrier Oils
Some carrier oils are odorless, but generally speaking, most have a faintly sweet, nutty aroma. If you come across a carrier oil that has a strong, bitter aroma, the carrier oil may have gone rancid.

Shopping For Carrier Oils
Trends are changing, but most typical vegetable oils sold in grocery stores are not cold-pressed. Instead, the oils are processed using heat. For the most nourishing, freshest carrier oils, strive to shop with retailers and suppliers that specialize in the sale of aromatherapy or natural skin care ingredients. Your local health food/nutrition store may be a source for carrier oils, but the oils can often be pricier. Watch for dust on the bottles when buying oils locally. That can indicate the oil has been sitting around for awhile. Look for oils that are not blends of two or more oils and that have no additives.

Processing Method: 

Shop for carrier oils that have been cold pressed or cold expeller pressed. This indicates that the oil has been pressed from the fatty portions of the botanical without the use of added heat. The process can still generate heat due to the friction of the method, but cold expeller pressed oils are processed under conditions that keep the heat to a minimum. Oils that simply say expeller pressed have not been processed to maintain low heat levels. When oils are processed without cool conditions, the high temperature degree and duration of the processing method can harm the fragile nutrients in the oil.

Nutrients: 

Carrier oils can contain fat soluble vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. Seabuckthorn Berry Oil, for instance, has such a high ratio of beta carotene that the oil is orange and is amongst the most vivid of oils. Oils that naturally contain tocopherols (Vitamin E) act as anti-oxidants which are both helpful to the skin and generally help extend the shelf life of the oil.

Essential Fatty Acids: 

Essential Fatty Acids are fatty acids that our bodies cannot manufacture and need to get from our diets. When applied topically, they are very nourishing to our skin. Carrier oils vary in their ratio and specific EFA’s that they contain. EFA’s are a benefit to the skin, but they also can make an oil more fragile and prone to quicker rancidity.

Price: Carrier oils can vary greatly in price based on several factors: The botanical it's made from, how it was processed, if it's organic, the quantity that you're purchasing, and the source that you're purchasing it from.

Organic: Organic carrier oils generally cost more than conventional oils. When purchasing organic carrier oils, verify if the oil is certified.

Color: Color doesn't always matter when selecting a carrier oil for simple blends, but it can matter if you are making more elaborate recipes where the color of your final product is important to you.

Aroma: The aroma of some carrier oils can compete or conflict with the aroma of the essential oils in your desired blend.

Viscosity or Weight: Viscosity is a measurement of the resistance of a liquid to movement and flow. For our purposes in comparing carrier oils, I keep things simple by defining them as having a "thin," "medium" or "thick" viscosity.

Absorption/Feel: This is a rather subjective evaluation of how thoroughly and quickly an oil penetrates the skin, and if it makes the skin feel oily after application.

Shelf Life: Carrier oils vary in how long they last before oxidizing and becoming rancid. When purchasing carrier oils, estimate the quantity of oil that you think you'll use within the lifetime of the oil. See the Carrier Oils and Rancidity section of this article for information on shelf life and rancidity.

Avoid Mineral Oil
Mineral oil and petroleum jelly are byproducts of petroleum production and are not used in aromatherapy. Mineral oil is used in baby oils and many commercially available moisturizers because it is an inexpensive oil to manufacture. It, however, can clog pores, prevent the skin from breathing naturally, prevent essential oil absorption, prevent toxins from leaving the body through the natural process of sweating, and I've read reports that it can be absorbed into the body and block vitamins from properly being utilized. These same concerns apply to petroleum jelly.

NOTE: See a less “Purist” and negative point of view regarding mineral and animal oils below in: “Mineral and Animal Oils”.

Storing Carrier Oils
For fragile carrier oils or for those that you will be keeping for a long duration, store them in dark glass bottles with tight fitting tops, and store them in a cool, dark location. Amber or cobalt Boston round bottles are ideal.

If you will be using up an oil well before its lifespan, it really doesn't need to be transferred to dark glass. When you purchase carrier oils, the supplier may have packaged it in a plastic (PET/HDPE) bottle. This doesn't mean that the oil is inferior. Often suppliers use plastic bottles to save packaging and shipping costs and because many customers use up the oils shortly after purchase. Unlike with essential oils which should always be stored in glass (essential oils can dissolve the plastic), carrier oils can be stored in plastic.

Most carrier oils can be stored in the refrigerator, and this can help prolong the lifespan of fragile oils like Borage Seed Oil. Avocado Oil, however, should not be stored in the refrigerator. Oils stored in the refrigerator may solidify or turn cloudy and will need time to return to room temperature prior to use.

Carrier Oils and Rancidity
Essential oils do not go rancid. Carrier oils, however, do become rancid over time. The level of natural fatty acids, tocopherols, method of extraction and other characteristics of an oil all can affect how quickly an oil becomes rancid. If you come across a carrier oil that has a strong, bitter aroma, the carrier oil may have gone rancid. If you can, compare the aroma of the oil that you suspect is rancid with the same botanical oil that you know is fresh.

Carrier oils that you purchase should be natural and unadulterated. Exceptions include buying carrier oils that have natural Vitamin E added. Vitamin E, often listed as tocopherols acts as a natural preservative.

Vegetable Butters and Other Ingredients as Carriers
Vegetable buttes are not carrier oils, but the beneficial properties of vegetable butters like Cocoa Butter and Shea Butter make them lipids that are suitable for use in aromatherapy.

Vegetable butters are similar to vegetable oils but are solid at room temperature. Vegetable butters are processed by a wide variety of methods, so it's especially important to check the method of extraction when shopping for butters. Strive to use butters that are cold pressed.

http://www.aromaweb.com/articles/whatcarr.asp

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Essential Fatty Acids

The human body can manufacture most fatty acids that we need for optimal health. Those fatty acids that we cannot manufacture and need to acquire from our diet are called Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs). Essential Fatty Acids are necessary for human functions and healthy, youthful skin.

Those that are lacking in the proper intake of Essential Fatty Acids may demonstrate seriously dry skin or they may be prone to more serious skin conditions including psoriasis and eczema. Using carrier oils that are rich in essential fatty acids and including a diet rich in Essential Fatty Acids can significantly help nourish and improve the look and feel of the skin.

Essential Fatty Acids are generally organized into two groups: Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids and Omega-6 Essential Fatty Acids. The hardest to acquire EFAs are the Omega-3 group.

Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids:
Alpha linolenic acid is the primary Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acid found in plants. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are more beneficial than Alpha linolenic acid, but EPA and DHA are only present in fish oil.

Omega-6 Essential Fatty Acids:
Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) and linoleic acid are examples of Omega-6 Essential Fatty Acids found in plant oils.

Omega-7 and Omega-9 Fatty Acids;
You may occasionally read about Omega-7 or Omega-9 Fatty Acids. Omega-7 and Omega-9 Fatty Acids are not considered Essential Fatty Acids. The body can manufacture these fatty acids.

General Safety Information: Use caution when trying any new ingredient, including carrier oils on the skin or in the hair. Those with nut allergies should consult their medical practitioner before coming into contact with nut oils, butters or other nut products. Do not take any oils internally without consultation from a qualified aromatherapy practitioner.

http://www.aromaweb.com/vegetableoils/essentialfattyacids.asp

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What are Infused Oils?

An infused oil consists of a carrier oil that has been permeated (“infused”) with one or more herbs. The benefit to using an infused oil as opposed to a plain carrier oil is that the infused oil will contain the therapeutic properties of both the carrier oil and the herbs that were infused into the oil.

Some plants do not have much essential oil contained in them, and in those cases, it is rare or impossible to commercially find an essential oil for that plant species. Infusing the herb into a carrier oil, however, can be a suitable way to still use the herb for aromatherapy purposes.

Infused oils generally have an oily feeling that varies depending on the carrier oil used. They also are not as concentrated as essential oils. Additionally, infused oils, just like carrier oils, can go rancid.

It is important that you heed the safety information and contraindications of the herbs you choose to use in your infused oil.

How to Make an Infused Oil
The easiest way to make an infused oil is by the use of a crock pot with a very low heat setting. Since the infused oil must be gently heated, it is essential that your crock pot does not overheat the oil. Do not use a crock pot that only has one heat setting as that crock pot most likely will overheat the oils. Add 2 ounces of your chosen carrier oil and 1/2 - 2/3 ounce of dried herbs (if you use fresh herbs, double the amount of herbs used) to your spotlessly-clean crock pot and stir well. Turn your crock pot to the lowest heat setting. Allow to heat on the lowest setting for two hours, stirring every 10-15 minutes (setting a timer to remind you to stir is important). After two hours, carefully strain the oil by using unbleached muslin (usually available at fabric stores). You should strain the oil at least twice. If any herbs remain in the infused oil, the oil can go rancid.

http://www.aromaweb.com/articles/whatinfu.asp

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Herbal Cautions for Pregnant and Nursing Women

There are many herbs that pregnant and lactating women should not take. Some of these may contain organic compounds that can affect a baby's development during pregnancy and while nursing. Other herbs may have a mildly toxic nature, while others may be strong uterine stimulants. Use common sense and always when in doubt, and even if you’re not, consult a medicinal authority first.

Angelica: suppresses menstruation

Black Cohosh: uterine stimulant - labor inducing

Blue Cohosh: stronger uterine stimulant

Borage oil: uterine stimulant - use only during the last few days of pregnancy and only with permission from your doctor/midwife

Comfrey: can cause liver problems in both mother and fetus - use externally only for treating sprains and strains and then only briefly

Dong Quai: could stimulate bleeding

Elder: do not use during pregnancy or lactation, this one absolutely is not an option

Fenugreek: relaxes the uterus 

Goldenseal: very strong antibiotic, absolutely not for the developing fetus or if nursing

Henbane: Poison, straight up, no options, do not use

Horsetail: silica content is too extreme for the developing fetus

Licorice Root: may generate too much water retention and/or elevated blood pressure

Motherwort: suppresses menstruation

Mugwort: uterine stimulant

Nutmeg: may contribute to miscarriage if taken in large doses

Pennyroyal Leaf: stimulates uterine contractions - Pennyroyal Essential Oil should never come into physical contact with pregnant or nursing women under any circumstance

Rue: powerful expellant

Saffron: can cause miscarriage as well as other problems

Shepherd's Purse: used only to control or stop hemorrhaging during/after childbirth

Uva Ursi: flushes out too much blood sugar during pregnancy and nursing

Yarrow: uterine stimulant

POISONOUS Herbs

The following herbs should only be used for spellwork but not ingested and some should not come in contact with the skin at all.  There are also those that should not be breathed such as in an incense or on a charcoal block.  Check with a good herbal book or speak with an herbalist personally to learn more.

Agaric                                       Hemlock                                   Valley Mistletoe

Belladonna                                Henbane                                   Yew

Be-Still                                      High John                                 Yohimbe

Bittersweet                                Lily of the

Blue Flag                                  Mandrake 

Blood Root                               Monkshood

Celandine                                  Oleander

Elder Berry                                Tobacco

Heliotrope                                 Uva Ursi

Hellebore                                  Wolfsbane

Magical Potion Maker’s Tools

There are a few tools necessary for the preparation of herbs in mundane and magical use. Be sure to cleanse each of the materials physically, with soap and water, and spiritually, by smudging and/or passing over a flame. There are many who say to never use anything metal when working with herbs as the metal can leach into the herbs and pollute them and in some instances greatly alter their qualities. This is completely impractical (never mind ridiculous) as most implements, i.e. knives, garden tools, etc. are made of metal.

Earthenware Pot:

Any size or style that you’re comfortable using will be appropriate.

Glass Bottles & Jars:

These should be dark brown, blue or green with tight fitting lids, in various sizes ranging from 2-8 oz. Flea markets, thrift stores and yard sales are great places to pick these up cheaply.

Infuser:

This is that egg shaped thing with holes in it for making teas. Preferably use the ceramic ones, not the metal ones, but as the metal ones are easier to find (and less expensive), don‘t worry about it. The best place to check would be the kitchen section of grocery & department stores for the metal ones and gourmet coffee houses or if you’re lucky, at the flea market or a yard sale for the ceramic ones.

Miscellaneous Tools:

Several other items to have on hand are a pair of scissors or a sharp knife for harvesting the herbs (if you grow your own), string to bundle the herbs, eye droppers with a rubber top that can be removed for easy cleaning, wooden spoon and a first aid kit just in case you get a bit over-zealous with the herb cutting.

Mortar & Pestle:

There are many variations of these on the market from simple wooden ones you can purchase for a few bucks at the grocery store to the more expensive marble types. Each of these is made for a different purpose and has its pros and cons.

Ceramic - Western sets have the exterior of the mortar and the pestle’s handle glazed while the interior is left rough. The high quality versions have convenient pouring spouts.  The Eastern sets have a glazed surface on the bottom and rim of the mortar and the pestle is made of wood to preserve the texture of the ceramic interior’s grinding surface. They are not as strong as the marble or granite types. They will not absorb odors and are easy to clean.

Electric Coffee Grinder - These are excellent! Fast, easy to use, and easy to clean! But they must not be used for coffee any longer, have a separate one for that. Have one specifically and only for your herbs.

Marble or Granite - Very hard, smooth grinding surface, mainly used for pharmaceuticals.  Grinding herbs can be a bit difficult as there is no “cutting” surface for the pestle to grind the herbs into. The major benefit to this type is that it will not absorb odors and is easy to clean.

Metal - Inexpensive and work very well and are very easy to clean.

Volcanic Rock - Correct name is the Mexican Molcajete (mortar) & Tejolote (pestle), pronounced mawl-ca-HAY-ta and tay-ha-LOW-ta. These are very rough in texture and must be “seasoned” before using the first time by grinding garlic into a paste and spreading it around the inside of the bowl. Let it set overnight, rinse it out with warm water. Washing in warm water after each use is all that is necessary from there on. Do not use soap once it has been seasoned.

Wood - These are very inexpensive but the big drawback to these is that they hold the oils of the plants ground up in them. If a poisonous plant is ground up, then its poisonous oils are left behind. Not good. The only option for this then would be to have one for every type of plant and that’s just plain ridiculous.

Notes:

Keep written records of herbs you have harvested, remedy recipes, affects on those who took the remedies, etc.

Scales:

Any type is fine as long as it shows ounces as well as grams.

Strainer:

Fine mesh colanders, cheesecloth, linen, coffee filters are all good options. Straining of the water or alcohol soaked herbs can be done using a coffee filter. Oil mixtures are too thick so cheesecloth is best for straining this type of mixture.

Methods of Drying Herbs

There are a few different ways to dry herbs: air, oven or microwave.

Air dry: Tie 5-6 flowers/herbs into a bunch and hang them upside-down in a dark and dry place that should be about 70 F. Depending on the types of herbs you are drying it may take several days up to several weeks for them to dry completely. Thicker sections or heavier roots may take a year or more.

Oven dry: Place the herbs/flowers in a thin layer on a baking sheet and place them in the oven on a low setting (100-200 degrees maximum). Be careful not to “cook” them. Check the finer herbs/flowers every 15-20 minutes, the heavier ones will take a while longer but don’t forget to keep checking on them!

Microwave dry: Put the herbs/flowers on a plate and set the microwave on low. According to your microwave and how much herbs you have in it, it can take about 2-5 minutes.

To dry leaves and flowers spread them carefully in a basket. It will take approximately 1-2 weeks before they are completely dried.

To dry seeds hang a bunch of flowers inside a paper bag. The dried seeds will fall into the bottom of the bag for easy collection.

Herbs are completely dry when they feel like paper and crumble when you rub them between your fingers. Once dry, store them in dark or opaque glass jars with very tight-fitting lids. Herbs will deteriorate upon exposure to the air so keep the opening of the jar to a minimum. Always label each container because you’ll never remember what herb is in what jar. Store the jars of  herbs in a cool, dark place like a closet or a cupboard. Dried herbs will retain their medicinal value for years if stored properly.

There are a few soft leaved herbs such as Basil, Borage, Comfrey, Dill, Fennel, and Parsley that can be kept frozen.

A Witch’s Book of Correspondences by Viktorija Briggs

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Carrier Oils

These are the oils used to dilute the Essential Oils or to make infusions or decoctions. Carrier oils also referred to as base oils or vegetable oils are used to dilute essential oils, CO2s and absolutes before applying to the skin. Below is a list of many of the commonly used carrier oils. 

Type - Plant, animal or mineral, which is best? What’s the difference? Cold-pressed or expeller pressed or heat processed, does it matter?

Plant, animal, and mineral oils each have their place and uses. “Purists” will tell you all the bad about the mineral and animal oils but none of the good. I’ll leave the negative input to them and give you the benefits they refuse to admit exist.

Cold-pressed or expeller pressed oils do not have their nutrients destroyed during production. Heat processed oils have had their beneficial nutrients destroyed by the duration and heat used in their production.

So, yes, cold-pressed or expeller pressed is the only type of oils to use.

Mineral & Animal Oils
Mineral oil and petroleum jelly are byproducts of petroleum production and are not used in aromatherapy. Mineral oil is used in baby oils and many commercially available moisturizers because it is an inexpensive oil to manufacture.

Mineral and animal oil molecules are larger than plant molecules and so do not absorb into the skin. That drawback can also have its own benefits though, in that when a barrier is needed (such as for a baby’s diaper rash), a potion can be made that includes both the mineral (or animal) oil as well as the plant oil of choice. This will utilize the healing qualities of the herbs and plant oils, but also provide a barrier for the skin from outside irritants.

Weight - Why does it matter?

Do you want your oil to be thick and comes out a drop at a time? Or do you want something that can be poured easily? Each oil type has its own personality and each has uses that it is best for. And much of it is personal preference anyway - me, I prefer a thicker oil for candle dressing, but I like a cream for body lotions. This is all mostly personal preference.

Shelf-life - How long will the magical potion last?

Depending on the oil used and the care that it and the final potion is stored, most potions should last for 2 - 5 years, with one or two that have an indefinite shelf-life. To be more specific, check the bottle or jar your oil comes in to find out for sure, or contact the manufacturer for a MSDS form. The type of processing it goes through will also impact its shelf-life.

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Oils to Use:

(Sweet) Almond Oil

Botanical Name: Prunus amygdalus var. dulcus

Aroma: Light. Sweet and Nutty.

Absorption/Feel: Leaves a Slight Hint of Oil on the Skin. Absorbs Semi-quickly.

Color: Virtually Clear With a Yellow Tinge.

Weight: Medium-Light

Shelf Life: 12 Months.

Notes: Sweet Almond Oil is considered to be an affordable all-purpose carrier oil to keep on hand.

Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage by Len Price mentions that Sweet Almond Oil contains approximately 8% saturated fat, 65% oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid) and 27% linoleic acid (an omega-6 essential fatty acid). [Len Price with Ian Smith and Shirley Price, Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage (United Kingdom: Riverhead, 1999), 33.]

Apricot Kernel Oil

Botanical Name: Prunus armeniaca

Aroma: Faint.

Absorption/Feel: Oily Texture.

Color: Virtually Clear With a Yellow Tinge.

Weight: Medium-Light

Shelf Life: 12 Months.

Notes: The semi-oily texture of Apricot Kernel Oil makes it a good choice for use in massage and massage oil blends.  It somewhat resembles Sweet Almond Oil in its properties and consistency.

Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage by Len Price mentions that Apricot Kernel Oil is low in saturated fats, contains approximately 65% oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid), 28% linoleic acid (an omega-6 essential fatty acid), and less than 1% alpha linolenic acid (an omega-3 essential fatty acid). [Len Price with Ian Smith and Shirley Price, Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage (United Kingdom: Riverhead, 1999), 37.]

Avocado Oil

Botanical Name: Persea americana

Aroma: Sweet, Fatty and Nutty.

Absorption/Feel: Leaves a Fatty, Almost Waxy Feel On the Skin. 

Color: Deep Olive Green.

Weight: Thick

Shelf Life: 12 Months.

Notes: Avocado Oil is a nourishing oil for the skin and hair. Avocado Oil is said to be rich in essential and trace minerals and Vitamin A. Its properties and texture makes it especially suitable for use in hair care. Due to its aroma and thick, oily consistency, Avocado Oil is typically used at a low ratio (highly diluted) in blends and formulations.

Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage by Len Price recommends not to refrigerate Avocado Oil as certain important, fragile constituents of the oil may be affected. Len Price mentions that Avocado Oil contains approximately 19% saturated fat, 66% oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid), 12% linoleic acid (an omega-6 essential fatty acid), and less than 5% alpha linolenic acid (an omega-3 essential fatty acid). [Len Price with Ian Smith and Shirley Price, Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage (United Kingdom: Riverhead, 1999), 39-40.]

Borage Seed Oil

Botanical Name: Borago officinalis

Aroma: Light and Sweet.

Absorption/Feel: Penetrates Well, But Leaves a Somewhat Oily Feel to the Skin.

Color: Light Yellow.

Weight: Medium-Thin

Shelf Life: 6 Months.

Notes: Borage Seed Oil is a prized oil in skin care for its noteworthy essential fatty acid content, consisting primarily of the omega-6 EFA gamma linolenic acid.

Borage Seed Oil has been used in aromatherapy and natural skin care to aid many skin conditions including eczema.

Borage Seed Oil is expensive and is usually blended in a small (often 10%) dilution with other carrier oils. By their nature, essential fatty acids deteriorate quickly. Borage Seed Oil, therefore, goes rancid rather quickly.

Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage by Len Price mentions that Borage Seed Oil contains approximately 15% saturated fat, 15% oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid), 38% linoleic acid (an omega-6 essential fatty acid), 21% gamma linolenic acid (GLA, an omega-6 essential fatty acid) and less than 1% alpha linolenic acid (an omega-3 essential fatty acid). [Len Price with Ian Smith and Shirley Price, Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage (United Kingdom: Riverhead, 1999), 43.]

Camellia Seed Oil (Tea Oil)

Botanical Name: Camellia sinensis or Camellia oleifera

Color: Pale to Golden Yellow.

Weight: Medium

Shelf Life: 1-2 Years.

Notes: Camellia Seed Oil, also known as Tea Oil, is cold pressed from the seeds of Camellia sinensis or Camellia oleifera, the same trees that render the leaves used for green, white and black tea. It offers good skin penetration. The seed oil is said to be rich in anti-oxidants including Vitamin E, essential fatty acids and non-essential fatty acids including oleic acid, an omega-9 fatty acid.

Caffeine is a water soluble compound. Although tea leaves contain caffeine, Camellia Seed Oil probably does not. I, however, have not been able to verify this.

Do not confuse this oil with Tea Tree Essential Oil. Tea Tree Essential Oil is a volatile essential oil with a strongly medicinal aroma whereas Camellia Seed Oil is a vegetable (fatty) oil from an entirely different plant species.

(Fractionated) Coconut Oil

Aroma: Odorless.

Absorption/Feel: Non Greasy. Penetrates Well.

Color: Clear.

Weight: Very Light (will not go rancid with age)

Shelf Life: Indefinite/Highly Stable

Notes: Fractionated Coconut Oil, often abbreviated as FCO, is coconut oil that has been distilled to filter out and contain only the medium chain triglycerides of coconut oil. Fractionated Coconut Oil, therefore, is not a whole and complete oil. Within holistic aromatherapy, ingredients that have been chemically altered to either remove natural compounds or standardize specific constituents are usually avoided. If you are understandably strict about using only all-natural un-altered vegetable oils, you will want to avoid using Fractionated Coconut Oil.

Fractionated Coconut Oil, however, is a highly stable, odorless and colorless oil that can be beneficial when you need a really light, penetrating oil or an oil that will not quickly go rancid. Its affordability and shelf life makes it a good oil to keep on reserve should you run low on your other more precious carrier oils.

Cranberry Seed Oil

Botanical Name: Vaccinium macrocarpon

Aroma: Fruity. Slightly bitter, but pleasant.

Color: Golden yellow.

Weight: Medium

Shelf Life: 2 Years

Notes: Cranberry seed oil is said to offer a balanced blend of omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids (omega 3 and 6 fatty acids are considered essential fatty acids) not available in other natural vegetable oils.  The oil is also rich in Vitamin E (tocopherols and tocotrienols) and Vitamin A. These vitamins help to nourish the skin, can help reduce the signs of aging, and may help with eczema, psoriasis and scarring.

Most vegetable oils that are high in essential fatty acids have a short shelf life. Cranberry Seed Oil, however, is rich in Vitamin E, a natural anti-oxidant. Vitamin E is both beneficial to the skin and helps to extend the shelf life of the oil.

Evening Primrose Oil

Botanical Name: Oenothera biennis

Aroma: Light and Sweet.

Absorption/Feel: Leaves a Trace of Oil on the Skin.

Color: Medium Yellow.

Weight: Thin

Shelf Life: 6 Months.

Notes: Evening Primrose Oil is a prized oil in skin care for its noteworthy essential fatty acid content, consisting primarily of the omega-6 EFA’s linolenic acid and gamma linolenic acid.

Evening Primrose Oil has been used in aromatherapy and natural skin care to aid many skin conditions including eczema.

Evening Primrose Oil is expensive and is usually blended in a small (often 10%) dilution with other carrier oils. By their nature, essential fatty acids deteriorate quickly. Evening Primrose Oil, therefore, goes rancid rather quickly.

Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage by Len Price mentions that Evening Primrose Oil contains approximately 8% saturated fat, 72% linoleic acid (an omega-6 essential fatty acid), 9% gamma linolenic acid (GLA, an omega-6 essential fatty acid) and less than 1% alpha linolenic acid (an omega-3 essential fatty acid). [Len Price with Ian Smith and Shirley Price, Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage (United Kingdom: Riverhead, 1999), 73.]

Grapeseed Oil

Botanical Name: Vitus vinifera

Aroma: Light. Slightly Nutty and Sweet.

Absorption/Feel: Leaves a Glossy Film on the Skin.

Color: Virtually Clear. Has a Virtually Unnoticeable Tinge of Yellow/Green.

Weight: Thin

Shelf Life: 6-12 Months.

Notes:  Grapeseed Oils pressed from specific grape varieties including chardonnay and riesling grapes are available. In general, however, Grapeseed Oil tends to be solvent extracted. Be sure to check the method of extraction for the oil that you purchase.

Grapeseed Oil is commonly used in aromatherapy as it is a fairly all-purpose oil and can be used in a wide array of applications ranging from massage to skin care. From a nutrititive standpoint, the most noteworthy aspect of Grapeseed Oil is its content of the essential fatty acid, linoleic acid. Grapeseed Oil, however, has a relatively short shelf life.

Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage by Len Price mentions that Grapeseed Oil containsapproximately 11% saturated fat, 15% oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid), 69% linoleic acid (an omega-6 essential fatty acid), and less than 1% alpha linolenic acid (an omega-3 essential fatty acid). [Len Price with Ian Smith and Shirley Price, Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage (United Kingdom: Riverhead, 1999), 76.]

Hazelnut Oil

Botanical Name: Corylus avellana

Aroma: Light. Nutty and Sweet.

Absorption/Feel: Leaves a Slightly Oily Film on the Skin.

Color: Light Yellow.

Weight: Thin

Shelf Life: 12 Months.

Notes: Hazelnuts are sometimes mistakenly called Filberts. Although similar in appearance, Filberts are slightly longer in shape.

Hazelnut Oil penetrates well and is said to be a good choice for those with oilier skin. It is a good all purpose oil that can also be used in aromatherapy applications ranging from skin care to massage.

Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage by Len Price mentions that Hazelnut Oil contains approximately 9% saturated fat, 74% oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid), 17% linoleic acid (an omega-6 essential fatty acid), and less than 1% alpha linolenic acid (an omega-3 essential fatty acid). [Len Price with Ian Smith and Shirley Price,Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage (United Kingdom: Riverhead, 1999), 79.]

Hemp Seed Oil

Botanical Name: Cannabis sativa

Aroma: Faint. Slightly Nutty.

Color: Light to Medium Green.

Weight: Medium

Shelf Life: 6-12 Months.

Notes: Hemp Seed Oil does not contain THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) or the other psychoactive constituents that are present in the dried leaves of Cannabis sativa.

Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage by Len Price mentions that Hazelnut Oil contains approximately 8% saturated fat, 74% oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid), 17% linoleic acid (an omega-6 essential fatty acid), and less than 1% alpha linolenic acid (an omega-3 essential fatty acid). [Len Price with Ian Smith and Shirley Price, Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage (United Kingdom: Riverhead, 1999), 81-82.]

Jojoba

Botanical Name: Simmondsia chinensis

Aroma: Light to Medium. Distinct But Pleasant.

Absorption/Feel: Absorbs well.

Color: Golden Yellow.

Weight: Medium

Shelf Life: Indefinite/Highly Stable.

Notes: Jojoba oil is actually a wax. It is highly stable with a long shelf life. It is said to act as a natural anti-inflammatory and is a good choice for use in massage and for inflamed skin. It is said that its composition is similar to that of the skin's natural sebum (oil). Jojoba is a good choice for use with those that have oily or acne prone skin.

Kukui Nut Oil (Candlenut)

Botanical Name: Aleurites moluccana

Aroma: Light, Sweet, Pleasant, Nutty.

Absorption/Feel: Absorbs Well, Leaving a Slight Trace of Oil On the Skin.

Color: Clear With a Yellow Tinge.

Weight: Thin

Shelf Life: 12 Months.

Notes: Kukui Nut Oil penetrates the skin well and is said to be excellent in treating many skin conditions including psoriasis, eczema, aging skin, and acne. It's essential fatty acid content makes it especially nourishing to the skin, but the oil can go rancid rather quickly.

Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage by Len Price mentions that Kukui Nut Oil contains approximately 9% saturated fat, 20% oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid), 42% linoleic acid (an omega-6 essential fatty acid), and 29% alpha linolenic acid (an omega-3 essential fatty acid). [Len Price with Ian Smith and Shirley Price, Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage(United Kingdom: Riverhead, 1999), 88.]

Macadamia Nut Oil

Botanical Name: Macadamia integrifolia

Aroma: Sweet, Fatty and Nutty. More Fragrant than Sweet Almond Oil and Other Nut Oils.

Absorption/Feel: Leaves an Oily Film on the Skin.

Color: Clear with a Yellow Tinge.

Weight: Thick

Shelf Life: 12 Months.

Notes: Macadamia Nut Oil is said to act as a natural anti-inflammatory (perhaps due to its oleic acid content). Its possible anti-inflammatory action combined with its viscosity and slip make it a good candidate for massage applications.

If not used in a small dilution with another vegetable oil, Macadamia Nut Oil may overpower a blend.

Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage by Len Price mentions that Macadamia Nut Oil contains approximately 15% saturated fat, 60% oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid), 2% linoleic acid (an omega-6 essential fatty acid), and up to 2% alpha linolenic acid (an omega-3 essential fatty acid). [Len Price with Ian Smith and Shirley Price,Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage (United Kingdom: Riverhead, 1999), 97.]

Meadowfoam Seed Oil

Botanical Name: Limnanthes alba

Aroma: Virtually Odorless.

Absorption/Feel: Penetrates Well.

Color: Pale Yellow.

Weight: Medium

Shelf Life: Indefinite/Highly Stable.

Notes: Meadowfoam is rich in Vitamin E, and offers anti-oxidant activity. This activity makes this a good oil for use in anti-aging aromatherapy applications and also helps make Meadowfoam Seed Oil a highly stable oil. It is odorless and virtually colorless and is a good all-purpose carrier for aromatherapy use. 

Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage by Len Price mentions that Meadowfoam Seed Oil contains approximately 1% saturated fat, 2% oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid), 9% uric acid (an omega-9 fatty acid), 60% ecosenoic acid, less than 4% linoleic acid (an omega-6 essential fatty acid), less than 4% delta linolenic acid (an omega-3 essential fatty acid), and less than 1% alpha linolenic acid (an omega-3 essential fatty acid). [Len Price with Ian Smith and Shirley Price, Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage (United Kingdom: Riverhead, 1999), 99-100.]

Olive Oil

Botanical Name: Olea europaea

Aroma: Same As for Virgin Olive Cooking Oil (Smells Somewhat Like Olives). 

Absorption/Feel: Oily.

Color: Light to Medium Green.

Weight: Thick

Shelf Life: 1-2 Years

Notes: Olive Oil's heavy viscosity, oily texture and aroma makes it less preferred than other oils for skin care and aromatherapy applications. If not carefully used or used in a small dilution with another carrier, it may overpower a blend.

When purchasing Olive Oil, be sure that you are purchasing a cold pressed, virgin oil.

Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage by Len Price mentions that Olive Oil can cause sensitivity or allergic reactions in some individuals. This text also mentions that Olive Oil contains approximately 10% saturated fat, 60% oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid), 11% linoleic acid (an omega-6 essential fatty acid), and less than 1% alpha linolenic acid (an omega-3 essential fatty acid). [Len Price with Ian Smith and Shirley Price, Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage (United Kingdom: Riverhead, 1999), 102.]

Peanut Oil

Botanical Name: Arachis hypogeae

Aroma: Light. Nutty and Fatty.

Absorption/Feel: Leaves a Heavy, Oily Film on the Skin.

Color: Virtually Clear.

Weight: Thick

Shelf Life: 12 Months.

Notes: Peanut oil should not be used by anyone that has an allergy to peanuts. Because of its oiliness, it is said to be a good choice for inclusion in massage blends. It has been said that it is a good oil to use for those with arthritis.

Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage by Len Price mentions that Peanut Oil containsapproximately 17% saturated fat, 50% oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid), 25% linoleic acid (an omega-6 essential fatty acid), and less than 1% alpha linolenic acid (an omega-3 essential fatty acid). [Len Price with Ian Smith and Shirley Price, Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage (United Kingdom: Riverhead, 1999), 76.]

Pecan Oil

Botanical Name: Carya pecan

Aroma: Extremely Light Nutty Aroma.

Absorption/Feel: Good Penetration, But Leaves an Oily Film on the Skin.

Color: Virtually Clear.

Weight: Medium

Shelf Life: 12 Months.

Notes: Pecan Oil is used in massage applications. If not used in a small dilution with another vegetable oil, Pecan Oil may overpower a blend.

Pomegranate Seed Oil

Botanical Name: Punica granatum

Aroma: Virtually Odorless.

Absorption/Feel: Light and Penetrates Well.

Color: Yellow.

Weight: Medium

Shelf Life: 12 Months.

Notes: Pomegranate Seed Oil is an effective emollient and is said to be incredibly rich in anti-oxidants due to its polyphenol content. It also is said to act as an anti-inflammatory. It is a good choice for use in applications intended for dry or irritated skin or aging skin. Studies have apparently demonstrated that Pomegranate Seed Oil may offer protection against free radicals and may help destroy cancer cells.

Rose Hip Oil

Botanical Name: Rosa mosqueta

Aroma: Mild and Slightly Earthy.

Absorption/Feel: Rose Hip Oil Leaves a Hint of Oil on the Skin.

Color: Virtually Clear.

Weight: Light

Shelf Life: 6-12 Months.

Notes: Rose Hip Oil is rich in essential fatty acids, namely alpha linolenic acid, and is said to be excellent in treating many skin conditions. It is expensive and is usually blended in a small (often 10%) dilution with other carrier oils. Despite rose hips being a natural source of the antioxidant Vitamin C (a water soluble vitamin) and Vitamin E (fat soluble), the oil itself goes rancid rather quickly.

Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage by Len Price mentions that Rose Hip Oil contains approximately 6% saturated fat, 13% oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid), 43% linoleic acid (an omega-6 essential fatty acid), and 36% alpha linolenic acid (an omega-3 essential fatty acid). [Len Price with Ian Smith and Shirley Price, Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage (United Kingdom: Riverhead, 1999), 76.]

Seabuckthorn Berry Oil

Botanical Name: Hippophae rhamnoides

Absorption/Feel: Oily Feel. Should Be Diluted to Approximately 1%.

Color: Orange.

Weight: Medium

Shelf Life: 12 Months.

Notes: Cold pressed and CO2 extracted Seabuckthorn Berry Oils are commercially available. Seabuckthorn Berry is a costly but highly nutritive oil used in low dilutions in skin care applications, most especially facial serums and anti-aging/anti-wrinkle blends. The oil is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and other nutritive compounds. Its large ratio of beta carotene is responsible for the vivid orange color of the oil. It is typically used in dilutions of 1/2-1%.

Sesame Seed Oil

Botanical Name: Sesamum indicum

Aroma: Faint With a Distinctively Sweet, Nutty Sesame Aroma.

Absorption/Feel: Leaves an Oily Film on the Skin.

Color: Pale Yellow.

Weight: Medium-Thick

Shelf Life: 12 Months.

Notes: Sesame Seed Oil is a good choice for massage. It should ideally be blended with other carrier oils. Otherwise, it may overpower a blend.

Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage by Len Price mentions that Sesame Seed Oil contains approximately 16% saturated fat, 40% oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid), 44% linoleic acid (an omega-6 essential fatty acid), and less than 1% alpha linolenic acid (an omega-3 essential fatty acid). [Len Price with Ian Smith and Shirley Price, Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage (United Kingdom: Riverhead, 1999), 128.]

Shea Butter

Botanical Name: Butyrospermun parkii

Aroma: Nutty, Fatty

Color: Off-white/Cream

Weight: Solid, but permeable at room temperature. Leaves and oily/waxy feeling on the skin.

Notes: Suitable for use in lotions and creams.

Latex (a natural rubber) is a natural constituent of shea butter . If you have an allergy or are sensitivity to latex, you should avoid shea butter altogether or perform a skin patch test prior to use to check for sensitivity.

Sunflower Oil

Botanical Name: Helianthus annuus

Aroma: Faint and Sweet.

Absorption/Feel: Penetrates Well and Does not Lave an Oily Residue.

Color: Virtually Clear With a Yellow Tinge.

Weight: Thin

Shelf Life: 12 Months.

Notes: Sunflower Oil is considered to be an affordable all-purpose carrier oil. When choosing sunflower oil, strive to get unrefined oil.

A High Oleic Acid version of Sunflower Oil is produced from sunflower crops raised to produce higher ratios of oleic acid.

Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage by Len Price mentions that Sunflower Oil contains approximately 12% saturated fat, and 64% linoleic acid (an omega-6 essential fatty acid). Standard Sunflower Oil contains approximately 20% oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid), and High Oleic Sunflower Oil contains approximately 80% Oleic Acid. [Len Price with Ian Smith and Shirley Price, Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy & Massage (United Kingdom: Riverhead, 1999), 138.]

Watermelon Seed Oil

Botanical Name: Citrullus vulgaris

Aroma: Faint. Slightly Nutty.

Absorption/Feel: Penetrates Well.

Color: Yellow.

Weight: Light

Shelf Life: Indefinite/Highly Stable

Notes: Watermelon Seed Oil (WSO) is a very nourishing yet light oil with good absorption. It is a good choice for use with oily skin but can be effective with all skin types. Its viscosity, mild aroma and indefinite shelf life make it a good all-purpose carrier oil for use in aromatherapy. Other thicker oils and oils with shorter shelf lives can be blended with Watermelon Seed Oil to lighten their texture and aroma and extend their overall shelf life.

General Safety Information: Use caution when trying any new ingredient, including carrier oils on the skin or in the hair. Those with nut allergies should consult their medical practitioner before coming into contact with nut oils, butters or other nut products. Do not take any oils internally without consultation from a qualified aromatherapy practitioner. 

Essential Oil Safety Information

Essential oils are highly concentrated liquids that can be harmful if not used carefully. Implementing aromatherapy into your lifestyle shouldn't cause paranoia or undue worry. By treating essential oils as medicines and following the steps outlined below, you will be well on your way to safely enjoying the many benefits that aromatherapy can offer.

These safety guidelines are not a complete safety reference for the proper use of essential oils. When in doubt, consult your physician and/or a qualified and trained aromatherapy practitioner.

·         Essential oils should never be used undiluted on the skin. There are instances when experienced aromatherapy users and practitioners make exceptions to this precaution, but only once significant essential oil knowledge is gained should you ever attempt to apply an undiluted oil on the skin. Lavender and tea tree are listed by a large number of aromatherapy sources as being oils that can be used undiluted. Undiluted use of lavender and tea tree, however, should be avoided as severe sensitivity still could occur in some individuals. Again, the safest rule of thumb is to never use any essential oil undiluted.

I wrote the above paragraph several years ago. Recently, while reading Marge Clark's book  Essential Oils and Aromatics, I read her personal experiences and her unfortunate long term consequences for having used lavender essential oil neat:

"One of my mentors reminds me 'sensitization is forever.' And I know she is right. Years ago I read the books saying that lavender oil could be used neat (undiluted). I very unwisely used undiluted lavender on broken skin, and consequently set up a sensitivity reaction. Today, almost two decades later, if I come in contact with lavender in any form, I will immediately start a new round of contact dermatitis that can take months to heal."  [Marge Clark, Essential Oils and Aromatics (Sandy, UT: Silverleaf Press, 2008), 32.]

·         Some oils can cause sensitization or allergic reactions in some individuals. When using a new oil for the first time, do a skin patch on a small area of skin. Place a small amount of the diluted essential oil (never use essential oils undiluted on the skin) on the inside of your elbow and apply a bandage. Wait 24 hours to see if there is any form of reaction. Even if a particular essential oil is not known to cause irritation, this step should not be ignored. Even if an oil does not irritate you, it still can irritate someone else. It is important that you always keep that in mind.

·         Some essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy or by those with asthma, epilepsy, or with other health conditions.

·         Less IS More. When using essential oils, use the smallest amount of essential oils that will get the job done. If one drop will get the job done, for example, don't use two drops.

·         Not all essential oils are suitable for use in aromatherapy. Wormwood, pennyroyal, onion, camphor, horseradish, wintergreen, rue, bitter almond and sassafras are some of the essential oils that should only be used by qualified aromatherapy practitioners, if ever at all.

·         Never let children use essential oils without the presence of an adult knowledgeable about their use. Most essential oils smell wonderful and many essential oils such as citrus oils can smell like they are safe to drink. Keep your essential oils away from children. Treat the oils like medicines that are poison in unknowing hands.

·         Essential oils should not be taken internally. Essential oils should only be taken internally after receiving a detailed consultation and prescription from a trained and qualified aromatherapy practitioner.

·         Essential oils are flammable. Keep them out of the way of fire hazards.

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Guide to Diluting Essential Oils

Undiluted Use of Essential Oils On the Skin Can Be Harmful and Potentially Cause Severe Irritation or Sensitization.

I routinely discover aromatherapy authors and educators that pass along the rule of thumb that it is safe to use some essential oils on the skin, most particularly lavender and tea tree, without first diluting them in a carrier oil. Using essential oils on the skin without diluting them is referred to as applying them "neat."

Never Put Undiluted Essential Oils On Your Skin.
Not even lavender or tea tree.

There are instances when experienced aromatherapy practitioners make exceptions to this precaution. Only once significant essential oil knowledge is gained should you ever attempt to apply any undiluted essential oil on the skin.

I have been a part of the aromatherapy community for over 13 years. Occasionally, I hear from or hear about those that have used undiluted essential oils and have developed permanent sensitization, even by only using a single drop of lavender essential oil per use. It's really not worth the risk. Diluting your essential oils not only helps to protect your well-being, it can also save you money.

Recently, while reading Marge Clark's book Essential Oils and Aromatics, I read her personal experiences and her unfortunate long term consequences for having used lavender essential oil neat:

"One of my mentors reminds me 'sensitization is forever.' And I know she is right. Years ago I read the books saying that lavender oil could be used neat (undiluted). I very unwisely used undiluted lavender on broken skin, and consequently set up a sensitivity reaction. Today, almost two decades later, if I come in contact with lavender in any form, I will immediately start a new round of contact dermatitis that can take months to heal." [Marge Clark,Essential Oils and Aromatics (Sandy, UT: Silverleaf Press, 2008), 32.]

What is Sensitization?

The symptoms of sensitization can vary from individual to individual, but think of it like a skin allergy that results in a severe and/or itchy rash. More severe cases of sensitization can potentially lead to respiratory issues or apparently even anaphylactic shock. Once you develop sensitization to an essential oil, you are likely to remain permanently sensitized to that essential oil, even if you begin to adequately dilute it. You may also develop a reaction to other essential oils as well and will also experience reactions to products that contain these oils.

Treat Essential Oils With Respect

Treat essential oils with the same care that you treat medicines. You don't need to be afraid or avoid essential oils and I'm certainly not trying to scare anyone out of enjoying all the benefits that aromatherapy offers. They can be an amazing blessing within a holistic lifestyle. Do remember, however, that when working with essential oils, less is more.

Dilute your essential oils prior to use on the skin and avoid the oils that are more likely to cause irritation and sensitization. When using an essential oil for the first time, do a skin patch test.

http://www.aromaweb.com/articles/dilutingessentialoils.asp

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Vegetable and Carrier Oils
Vegetable and carrier oils have a plethora of fine uses which include acting as a carrier for therapeutic applications, as an excellent addition to your culinary creations, as a lathering agent for soap, and a binding medium for cosmetics. It is hard to imagine where we would be with our creations, if it were not for the goodness and substance that pure oil provides.

Cold Pressed - A method of mechanical extraction where heat is reduced and minimized throughout the batching of the raw material. This helps the oil maintain its original state, constituents, and depth. Temperatures are rigorously controlled to ensure that it does not exceed 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit. Although not a practical method of extraction for all vegetable oils on the market it is highly regarded as the extraction method of choice.

Expeller Pressed  - A method of natural, mechanical extraction and processing of oils where a small amount of heat is produced simply through the frictional heat created by hydraulic presses. This is usually around 120-200 degrees Fahrenheit and makes the oil suitable and economical as a base for cosmetics because of its fairly undisturbed molecular state. It also makes a fine food grade oil.

Refined  - A fully processed oil where it has been exposed to all methods of refinement including a flash fluctuation in temperature as high as 450 degrees and winterization as low as -30 degrees, deodorization, which removes the heavy and often unsettling odor in oil, and finally bleaching, where natural clays and other mediums are used to alter or remove an oils color, and scent. This makes for an economical oil in cosmetics and body care products, but it is not the healthiest as a food grade oil.

Partially Refined  - A process where only some of the methods available are employed to produce a manufactured oil. Only one or two of the three available methods are used in a partially refined oil. These include, but are not limited to; deodorization, winterization and natural bleaching. These methods are used for oils which have been known historically to go rancid quickly, and they are also used to further stabilize an oil or remove its heavy odor and deep color.

Unrefined  - A process of mechanical extraction and screen filtering where no additional refining process has taken place. This ensures the finest quality product and makes the oil the most exquisite for food and cosmetic preparation. The unrefined process helps oil retain a rich, strong flavor and color that is true to its natural state. Unrefined oils are always darker in color and richer in scent.

http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/bulkoil/bulkoil.html

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Herbs

Of course, to have an herbal potion you have to have herbs! There are millions of herbs that can be and have been used for potion making. The art of potion making is thousands of years old, so you’re in great company! The following list is a good basis from which to begin:

Herb & Oil Correspondences:

A

Acacia:

Attributes: Attraction, Divination, Meditation, Protection, Psychic powers

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Al-Uzza, Astarte, Diana, Ishtar, Osiris, Ra

Acorn:

Attributes: Change, Growth, Hidden secrets, Power, Protection, Strength

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: A Scottish Witch’s favorite amulet for strength and protection, Jupiter, Cerridwen

Agrimony:

Attributes: Banishing, Binding, Counter-magick, Exorcising, Healing, Hex breaking, Protection, Reverse spells, Sleep

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

Deities: Jupiter

Alder:

Attributes: Adventurism, Banishing & controlling Elementals, Bravery, Charisma, Charm, Face that which you’ve been avoiding, Creation magick, Divination, Elemental magick, Faery magick,  Guidance, Fertility, Journeys, Leadership, Love, Prophecy, Protection, Resurrection, Sacred to Druids, Self-confidence, Spiritual growth, Supervision skills, Visions, Weather magick, Wind magick

Gender: M

Planet: Mars, Mercury

Element: Air, Earth, Fire, Water

Deities: Astarte, Bran, Dionysus. Faeries

Allspice:

Attributes: Abundance, Communication, Compassion, Courage, Determination, Energy, Fertility, Fortune, Healing, Luck, Money, Prosperity, Strength

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Fire

Deities: Aphrodite, Mars, Venus

Almond:

Attributes: Abundance, Divination, Fertility, Fortune, Fruitfulness, Luck, Money, Passing-over, Peace,  Prosperity, Self-protection, Virginity, Wisdom

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Air

Deities: Artemis, Attis, Dionysus, Hecate, Hermes, Mercury, Thoth, Zeus

Aloe Vera:

Attributes: Accident prevention, Affection, Evil repelling, Healing, Luck, Protection, Success

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: Jupiter, Luna, Mars, Zeus

Aloeswood:

Attributes: Abundance, Fertility, Fortune, Love, Luck, Prosperity, Protection, Spirituality, Strength

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Venus

Amaranth:

Attributes: Bullet-proof protection, Burial rites, Calling spirits, Healing, Immortality, Invisibility, Mend a broken heart, Protection

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: Artemis, Saturn

Amber:

Attributes: Abundance, Dedications, Fertility, Fortune, Good fortune, Initiation rites, Luck, Peace, Prosperity, Protection, Self-confidence, Stability, Success, Transform energy

Gender: F

Planet: Jupiter, Moon

Element: Earth

Deities: Freya

Ambrosia:

Attributes: Attract love, Immorality, Sexual attraction

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Greek & Roman pantheons

Angelica           :

Attributes: Counter-magick, Divination, Energy, Exorcism, Healing, Inspiration, Peace, Protection, Purification, Visions

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Atlantis, Michael the Archangel, Venus

Anise:

Attributes: Clairvoyance, Consecration, Divination, Dreams, Handfasting,  Nightmare prevention, Prosperity, Protection, Psychic awareness, Purification, Repel negative energies, Romance, Sleep, Spirit calling, Youthfulness

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter, Mercury

Element: Air

Deities: Apollo, Hermes, Jupiter, Legba, Mercury, Oshun, Ra, Thoth

Apple Blossom:

Attributes: Choices, Contentment, Decisions, Divination, Earth magick, Fertility, Garden magick, Happiness, Healing, Immortality, Joy, Longevity, Love, Luck, Peace, Plenty, Security, Spirit food, Wisdom

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Aphrodite, Apollo, Athena, Diana, Dionysus, Faeries, Freya, Hera, Iduna, Olwen, Pomona, Venus, Zeus

Apricot:

Attributes: Love, Passion, Water magick

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Dionysus, Venus

Ash:

Attributes: Abundance, Astral travel, Besom making, Caves & wells magick, Communication, Counter-magick, Curiosity, Desires, Divination, Fertility, Fortune, Health, Hopes, Horse magic, Intelligence, Justice, Luck, Love, Magick enhancing, Meditation, Mental balance, Mental clarity, Prophetic dreams, Prosperity, Protection, Sea rituals, Skills in arts & crafts, Stang making, Weather magic, Wisdom, Wishes, Writer’s wood

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Dionysus, Faeries, Gwydion, Mars, Neptune, Poseidon, Thor, Uranus, Woden

Aspen:

Attributes: Air magick, Anti-theft, Eloquence, Healing

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Air

Deities: Dionysus, Mercury

Aster:

Attributes: Calming, Faery magick, Feminine magick, Love, Soothing, Water magick

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Faeries, Venus

Avocado:

Attributes: Beauty, Feminine magick, Happiness, Long life, Love, Lust, Water magick, Wealth

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Dionysus, Horus, Isis, Venus

Azalea:

Attributes: Drawing to you want you want, First love, Happiness, Magnetizing

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: Persephone, Pluto

B

Bachelor’s Button

Attributes: Blessings, Living single, Love

Gender: F.

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Chiron, Robin Goodfellow, Venus

Bamboo

Attributes: Abundance, Divination, Fertility, Fortune, Hex breaking, Luck, Prosperity, Protection, Wishes

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

Deities: Hina

Banana:

Attributes: Abundance, Fertility, Fortune, Luck, Passion, Patience, Potency, Prosperity

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Kanaloa, Venus

Barley

Attributes: Evil & negativity repelling, Faery magick, Healing, Love, Protection, Toothache

Gender: M

Planet: Saturn

Element: Fire

Deities: Bran, Demeter, Faeries, Isis, Osiris, Tammuz, Venus

Basil:

Attributes: Abundance, Clairvoyance, Commanding, Courage, Divination, Exorcism, Fertility, Flying, Fortune, Happiness, Harmony, Honesty, House blessing, Love, Luck, Mend quarrels, Money, Passing-over rituals, Peace, Prosperity, Protection, Psychic development, Purification, Relationship healing, Sympathy, Temper soothing, Wealth

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Aradia, Ares, Dionysus, Erzulie, Jupiter, Krishna, Loki, Mars, Obatala, Ogoun, St. Joseph, Seth, Vishnu

Bay:

Attributes: Clairvoyance, Evil & negativity repelling, Glory, Healing, House blessing, Love, Medicine, Music, Prophetic dreams, Protection, Psychic powers, Purification, Strength, Sun magick, Visions, Wisdom

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter, Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Adonis, Apollo, Asclepias, Buddha, Ceres, Cernunnos, Delphi, Dionysus, Eros, Faunus, Fides

Bayberry:

Attributes: Abundance, Attraction, Fertility, Friendships, Harmony, Love, Luck, Money, Peace, Prosperity

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Earth

Deities: Dionysus

Benzoin:

Attributes: Abundance, Awakenings, Astral projection, Concentration, Fertility, Fortune, Luck, Peace, Prosperity, Purification

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury, Sun

Element: Air

Deities: Aphrodite, Ares,  Freya, Hathor, Khephera, Mut, Venus

Bergamot:

Attributes: Abundance, Fertility, Fortune, Hex-breaking, Luck, Money, Prosperity, Success

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Air

Deities: Fortuna, Hermes, Mercury

Betony:

Attributes: Despair, Love, Nightmares, Protection, Purification, Reconciliations

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Fire

Deities: Jupiter

Birch

Attributes: Beginnings, Besom making, Blessing, Dedications, Exorcism, Health, Initiation rites, Love,  Overcoming difficulties, Protection, Purification, Repels negative energies

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Diana, Dionysus, Faeries, Freya, Lady of the Woods, Thor, Venus

Blackberry:

Attributes: Abundance,  Fertility, Fortune, Good luck, Fairy magick, Healing, Lughnasadh, Money, Prosperity, Protection

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Brigit, Lugh, Saturn

Black Eyed Susan

Attributes: Justice, Legal matters, Strengthen spells

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

Deities: N/A

Blue Bonnet:

Attributes: Dreams, Grace, Forgiveness, Love, Luck, Mercy, Passion, Trances, Unconditional love, Visions

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Comanche Tribe

Boneset:

Attributes: Cursing, Exorcism, Hexing, Protection, Repelling negativity

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Burdock

Attributes: Cleansing, Earth magick, Healing, Protection, Repel negative energy

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Earth, Water

Deities: Gaia, Oshun, Thor, Venus

Buttercup:

Attributes: Harmony, Joy, Sun magick

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Ajax, Ares, Mars

C

Cabbage:

Attributes: Fertility, Luck, Money spells, Moon magic, Prosperity

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: Faeries, Luna

Calamus:

Attributes: Abundance, Fertility, Fortune, Gardener’s lucky herb, Healing, Luck, Money, Prosperity, Protection, Spell strengthening, Subjugation of others

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Camphor:

Attributes: Chastity, Control, Divination, Dreams, Health, House blessing, Personal influence, Past-life memories, Persuasiveness, Psychic awareness, Purification, Sexual desire repression

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: Artemis, Chandra, Vesta

Caraway:

Attributes: Anti-theft, Consecration rituals, Evil & negativity repelling, Fidelity, Health, House blessing, Love, Lust, Memory, Mental powers, Passion, Protection

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Air

Deities: Vesta

Cardamom:

Attributes: Courage, Fidelity, Love, Lust, Mental clarity, Protection, Sex magick

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Air

Deities: Urzulie, Mars, Venus

Carnation:

Attributes: Emotional healing, Healing, Luck, Masculine energy, Power, Protection, Strength, Vitality

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury, Sun

Element: Fire, Mercury

Deities: Jove, Jupiter, Venus

Carrot:

Attributes: Fertility, Impotence, Lust

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fir

Deities: N/A

Cayenne:

Attributes: Cleansing, Divorce spells, Fire magick, Healing, Hexing, Love, Passion, Protection, Purification, Repels negative energy, Separation spells, Strength, Un-hexing

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: N/A

Cedar:

Attributes: Abundance, Baby blessing, Courage, Fertility, Fortune, Healing, Health, Love, Luck, Money, Power, Prosperity, Protection, Psychic power, Purification, Strength, Wealth, Wiccaning

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Amun Ra, Artemis, Baalat, Cernunnons, Dionysus, Ea, Indra, Isis, Jupiter, Odin, Osiris, Pan, Poseidon, Venus, Wotan

Chamomile:

Attributes: Attraction, Calmness, Curse remover, Gambling, Hex breaking, Love, Luck, Meditation, Money, Patience, Purification, Sexuality, Sleep, Spell combatant, Wealth

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Cernunnos, Karnayna, Mercury, Oshun, Ra, St. Anne, Sun Gods

Cherry:

Attributes: Cheerful, Creativity, Divination, Female magick, Healing, Humor, Love, Obstacles

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Oya, Venus

Chicory:

Attributes: Favors, Frigidity, Frugality, Hexing, Invisibility, Promotes positive outlook, Removing obstacles

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Air

Deities: N/A

Chocolate:

Attributes: Aphrodisiac, Call passed loved ones, Depression, Enemy conversion, Euphoric, Love spells, Soothe uneasy spirits

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Aztec pantheon

Chrysanthemum:

Attributes: Protection, Strength

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: N/A

Cinnamon:

Attributes: Abundance,  Aphrodisiac, Attraction, Cleansing, Creativity, Courage, Dreamwork, Energy, Fertility, Financial matters, Fortune, Healing, Knowledge, Love, Luck, Lust, Money, Passion, Power, Protection, Prosperity, Psychic powers, Purification, Raise spiritual vibrations, Sex magick, Solar magick, Speed, Spirituality, Strength, Success, Vision work

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Aesclepius, Aphrodite, Bast, Helios, Mercury, Oshun, Ra, Venus

Cinquefoil:

Attributes: Beltane, Healing, Health, Hex removal, House blessings, Love, Litha, Money, Power,  Prophetic dreams, Prosperity,  Protection, Safe travel, Self-confidence, Sleep, Un-hexing, Wealth, Wisdom

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

Deities: Jupiter, Mother Goddess, Voodoo pantheon

Citronella:

Attributes: Attract money, Aura cleansing, Business, Cleansing, Control, Creativity, Exorcism, Friends, Good fortune, Health, Mental clarity, Persuasiveness, Prosperity, Protection, Success, Unhexing

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Air

Deities: N/A

Clove:

Attributes: Abundance, Achievement, Action, Aphrodisiac, Aura cleansing, Banishing, Beauty, Clarity, Cleansing, Confidence building, Divination, Exorcism, Fertility, Fortune, Friendship, Gain what is sought, Growth, Kinship, Legal matters, Love, Luck, Lust, Meditation, Mental clarity, Money, Prosperity, Protection, Purification, Repel negative energy, Romance, Solar magick, Spirituality, Unlocks “the chains holding you back”, Wealth

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter, Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Egyptian pantheon, Malaysian pantheon, Osiris

Clover:

Attributes: Abundance, Anti-hexing, Counter spells, Exorcism, Faery magick, Faithfulness, Fertility, Fidelity, Fortune, Hex breaking, Love, Luck, Memory, Money, Power, Prosperity, Protection, Success

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Air

Deities: Artemis, Faeries, Osiris, Rowan

Coconut:

Attributes: Balance, Chastity, Intuition, Luck, Peace, Protection, Purification

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Coffee:

Attributes: Banishing, Grounding, Healing, Lucid dreaming, Peace, Purification, Returning negative energy to its source

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Cotton:

Attributes: Fishing magick, Good fortune, Healing, Luck, Rain magick, Protection, Weather magic

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Earth

Deities: N/A

Cucumber:

Attributes: Abundance, Chastity, Fertility, Fortune, Health, Healing, Luck, Lust inhibitor, Moon magick, Prosperity, Repels disruptiveness, Spirituality, Trust

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: Luna

Cumin:

Attributes: Abundance, Anti-theft, Exorcism, Fertility, Fidelity, Fortune, Luck, Lust, Peace, Prosperity, Protection, Repels negative energy, Trust

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: N/A

Cypress:

Attributes: Blessings, Calming, Comfort, Death, Divination, Eternity, Grief, Healing, Immortality, Invocations to the Gods, Longevity, Loss, Luck, Mourning, Passing-over rituals, Protection, Tranquility

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Earth

Deities: Aphrodite, Apollo, Artemis, Ashtoreth, Astarte, Cupid, Dis, Hebe, Hecate, Hekat, Jove, Jupiter, Mithras, Pluto, Zoroaster

D

Daffodil:

Attributes: Fertility, Love, Luck

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Mars

Daisy:

Attributes: Baby blessing, Faery magic, Luck, Lust, Wiccaning

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Aphrodite, Artemis, Baldur, Faeries, Freya, Jupiter, Thor, Venus, Zeus

Damiana:

Attributes: Aphrodisiac, Astral travel, Chakra opening, Divination, Love, Lust, Meditation, Psychic powers, Sex magick, Spirit contact, Tantric magick, Visions

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Artemis, Diana, Ganesha, Oshun. Pan, Vishnu, Zeus

Dandelion:

Attributes: Divination, Healing, Messages, Purification, Repel negative energy, Spirit calling, Wishes

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter, Mars

Element: Air

Deities: Belenus, Brigid, Hecate, Helios, Yemaya

Dill:

Attributes: Abundance, Banishing, Binding, Children’s protection, Crossing, Fertility, Fortune, Love, Luck, Lust, Money, Prosperity,  Protection, Purification, Sex magic

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Fire

Deities: Brigit, Mercury

Dogwood:

Attributes: Communication, Health, Lammas, Protection, Secret writings kept hidden, Wishes

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Consus, Mars

Dragon’s Blood:

Attributes: Aggression, Banishing, Courage, Defensive magick, Dragon magick, Empowerment, Energy, Exorcism, Fertility, Fire Elemental invocation, Empowerment, Fire magick, Hex breaking, Love, Lust, Physical strength, Political magick, Potency, Power, Power amplifier, Protection, Purification, Rapid results, Sex magick, Strength , Warding evil

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Mars

E

Echinacea:

Attributes: Healing , Money, Strengthening spells

Gender: M

Planet: Fire

Element: Jupiter

Deities: N/A

Elder:

Attributes: Banishment, Beginnings, Business blessing, Cleansing, Creativity, Crone magick, Dedications, Dreamwork, Exorcism, Healing, House blessing, Initiation rites, Knowledge seeking, Love, Nature magick, Offerings, Passing over rituals, Prosperity, Protection, Repels negative energy, Renewal, Sexuality, Sleep, Spell releasing, Wisdom

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Faeries, Holda, Morrigan, Venus, White Goddess

Elm:

Attributes: Elvin magic, Love, Slander stopping

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: Elves, Hoenin, Odin

Eucalyptus:

Attributes: Abundance, Fertility, Fortune, Healing, Luck, Prosperity, Protection, Repel negative energies, Water Elemental invocation

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Air, Water

Deities: Ogun

Evening Primrose:

Attributes: Faery magick, Hunting, Love, Shapeshifting

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: Faeries

F

Fennel:

Attributes: Clear vision, Flattery, Healing, Power, Protection, Purification, Sex magick, Strength, Vitality

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Fire

Deities: Adonis, Dionysus, Prometheus

Fern:

Attributes: Air magick, Concentration, Eternal youth, Exorcism, Health, Luck, Mental clarity, Protection, Rain magick, Repel negative energy, Riches, Sincerity, Weather magick

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Air

Deities: Faeries, Laka, Mars, Pan, Puck, Saturn, Venus

Fir:

Attributes: Birth, Hope, Immortality, Insight, Knowledge, Life, Past-life recall, Re-birth, Rejuvenation, Spirituality, Stang making, Strength

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Air

Deities: Artemis, Diana, Druantia

Flax:

Attributes: Baby blessing, Beauty, Faery magick, Fire magick, Healing, Money, Protection, Psychic powers, Wealth, Wiccaning

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Fire

Deities: Faeries, Holda, Mars

Forsythia:

Attributes: Courage, Gateway to Otherworlds, Goals, Growth - emotional, physical, spiritual, Healing, Movement, Overwhelming force, Solar plexus Chakra balancing, Strength, Vigor

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Faeries, Nature spirits

Foxglove:

Attributes: Fairy magick, Garden blessings, Home protection, Immortality, Underworld communication, Visions

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Faeries, Pluto, Venus

Frankincense:

Attributes: Aphrodisiac, Banishing negativity, Beltane, Consecration rituals, Exorcism, Lammas, Luck, Love, Meditation, Protection, Purification, Spirituality, Yule

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Adonis, Apollo, Baal, Ra

G

Gardenia:

Attributes: Comfort, Friendship, Happiness, Harmony, Healing, Love, Peace, Spirituality

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: Venus

Garlic:

Attributes: Aphrodisiac, Anti-theft, Banishing, Exorcism, Healing, Lust, Protection, Purification, Repels negative energy

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Hecate, Mars, Ogun

Geranium:

Attributes: Fertility, Friendships, Health, Hex breaking, Love, Protection

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Venus

Ginger:

Attributes: Abundance, Courage, Fertility, Fortune, Love, Luck, Money, Power, Prosperity, Sex magick, Sexuality, Strength, Success

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Aries, Luna, Mars

Gingko:

Attributes: Aphrodisiac, Beauty, Business, Dreams, Fertility, Healing, Love, Spirit calling

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Ginseng:

Attributes: Beauty, Healing, Health, Love, Lust, Protection, Purification, Wishes

Gender: M

Planet: Mars, Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Uranus

Goldenrod:

Attributes: Divination, Encouragement, Find lost/hidden objects, Luck, Money, Prosperity

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Air

Deities: Venus

Golden Seal:

Attributes: Business, Finances, Healing, Money, Power, Success

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Helios, Venus

Grains:

Attributes: Fertility, Growth, Money, Prosperity, Protecion

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Anath, Adonis, Anu, Bran, Branwen, Brigit, Ceres, Cernunnos, Demeter, Don, Ishtar, Ninkasi, Osiris, Tammuz

Grape:

Attributes: Abundance, Binding, Charity, Fertility, Fortune, Garden magick, Inspiration, Luck, Mental powers, Money, Popularity, Prosperity

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: Bacchus, Dionysus, Hathor, Osiris

H

Hackberry:

Attributes: Adaptability, Agriculture, Blessings, Creativity, Forest magick, Gardening magick, Hunting ritual

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Earth

Deities: Jupiter

Hawthorn:

Attributes: Anti-lightning, Attract Faeries, Banish negative spirits, Celibacy, Charm making, Chastity, Cleansing, Clear away old habits, Concealing magick, Creativity, Faery magick, Fertility, Fishing magick, Ghost repelling, Happiness, Health, Inner journeys, Insight, Intuition, Love, Masculine sexuality, Marriage, Patience, Prosperity, Protection, Psychic protection, Purification, Purity, Self-confidence, Sexuality, Wands, Weather magick, Wishes

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Aquarius, Cardea, Faeries, Flora, Ogun, Olwen, Hymen, Vashaan

Hazel:

Attributes: Anti-lightning, Artistic creativity, Change, Divination, Dreams, Eloquence, Faery magick, Fertility, Fire protection, Heart’s desire, Inspiration, Intelligence, Love, Luck, Magical knowledge, Manifestation, Navigation, Optimism, Poetry, Protection, Psychic abilities, Wisdom, Wrath

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Air

Deities: Aphrodite, Arianrhod, Artemis, Danu, Diana, Diancecht, Elves, Faeries, Manannan Mac Lir, Mercury, Thor

Heal All:

Attributes: Clarity, Gambling, Healing, Luck, Money, Strength, Success

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Air

Deities: N/A

Heather:

Attributes: Abundance, Air magick, Faery magick,

Fertility, Fortune, Healing, Immortality, Luck, Money, Prosperity, Protection, Rain magick, Revival, Soothing, Weather magick

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Adonis, Faeries, Isis, Venus

Heliotrope:

Attributes: Abundance, Eternal love, Exorcism, Fertility, Fortune, Gaining power, Happiness, Healing, Invisibility, Luck, Money, Prophetic dreams, Prosperity, Sun magick, Wealth

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Apollo, Cernunnos

Hemlock:

Attributes: Astral projection, Astral travel, Envy, Hexing, Jealousy, Paralyze situation, Purification, Purification of magical tools, Remove sexual desire, Sleep

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: Hecate

Henbane:

Attributes: Cursing, Ease death, Flying ointment, Funerary magick, Hexing, Love bringing, Necromancy, Passing-over rituals, Rain magick, Spirit summoning, Visionary magick, Weather magick

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: Hecate

Hibiscus           :

Attributes: Concentration, Divination, Dreams, Love, Lust, Wisdom

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Kali, Shango, Venus

Hickory:

Attributes: Abundance, Acquisitions, Direction, Leadership skills, Legal matters, Love, Lust, Protection, Wholeness

Gender: M

Planet: Fire

Element: Jupiter

Deities: Apollo, Lugh

Holly:

Attributes: Adoration, Anti-Lightning, Beauty, Consecration, Dream Magic, Hope, Immortality, Logic, Love, Luck, Magick enhancing, Material gain, Passing-over rituals, Physical revenge, Power transfer, Protection, Purity, Rebirth , Sacred, Stang making, Strength, Yule

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Govannon, Holly King, Odin, Unicorn

Honey:

Attributes: Attraction, Seduction, Sun magick

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Air

Deities: Ah Muzencab, Aphrodite, Callisto, Cybele, Grandmother Twyla, Melissa, Mellonia, Neith, Ra, Usins, Venus

Honey Locust:

Attributes: Beauty, Binding, Faery magick, Physical attractiveness, Protection

Gender: F

Planet: Sun

Element: Air

Deities: Faeries

Honeysuckle:

Attributes: Abundance, Creativity, Fertility, Fortune, Healing, Honesty, Love, Luck, Memory, Money, Power, Prosperity, Protection, Psychic powers, Safety, Success, Truth

Gender: M

Planet: Moon

Element: Earth

Deities: Luna, Selene

Hyacinth:

Attributes: Abundance, Fertility, Fortune, Happiness, Homosexuality, Love, Luck, Nightmares, Peace, Prosperity, Protection, Sleep

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Apollo, Hyacinthus

Hyssop:

Attributes: Banishing, Faery magick, Hex breaking, Protection, Purification, Sacrifice

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Fire

Deities: Faeries, Obatala

I

Indigo:

Attributes: Amulets, Animal magick, Protection

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Iris:

Attributes: Attraction, Baby blessing, Beauty, Courage, Faith, Purification, Reincarnation, Sexuality, Wiccaning, Wisdom

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Aphrodite, Hera, Iris, Isis, Juno

Irish Moss:

Attributes: Aphrodisiac, Invites positive spirits, Luck, Male sex magick, Money, Protection, Safe travel

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: Aphrodite

Ivy:

Attributes: Constancy, Continuity, Enlightenment, Fertility, Fidelity, Friendships, Healing, Joy, Life spiral, Love, Luck, Nourishment, Protection, Resurrection, Strength, Wrath

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: Ariadne, Arianrhod, Bacchus, Cerridwen, Dionysus, Hymen, Isis, Osiris, Persephone, Saturn, White Goddess

J

Jacaranda:

Attributes: Beauty, Beltane, Fertility, Strength

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Venu

Jasmine:

Attributes: Abundance, Anger reducer, Aphrodisiac, Auric health, Calming, Compassion, Confidence, Depression, Divination, Dreamwork, Elegance, Family, Fertility, Fortune, Gardening, Grace, Healing, Health, Love, Lucid dreaming, Luck, Lunar magick, Meditation, Money, Ostara herb, Peace, Prophetic dreams, Prosperity, Protection, Rejuvenation, Sexuality, Sleep, Spirituality, Spiritual love, Visions, Wealth

Gender: F

Planet: Moon, Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Diana, Venus, Vishnu

Jimson Weed:

Attributes: Hex breaking, Protection, Sleep

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Joe-Pye Weed:

Attributes: Divination, Employment, Handfasting, Happiness, Harmony, Love, Peace, Respect

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Blodeuwedd

Juniper:

Attributes: Anti-theft, Exorcism, Health, Love, Protection, Psychic powers increased, Purification

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Astarte, Ishtar

K

Kava Kava:

Attributes: Aphrodisiac, Astral travel, Employment promotion, Luck, Protection, Travel, Visions

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: Kanaloa, Kane, Lono

Kelp:

Attributes: Healing, Protection, Strength, Travel, Water magick

Gender: F

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Water

Deities: Neptune, Poseidon

Knotweed:

Attributes: Binding, Cursing, Health, Hexing, Longevity

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Earth

Deities: N/A

L

Lady’s Mantle:

Attributes: Comforting, Healing, Love

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Lavender:

Attributes: Chastity, Clairvoyance, Devotion, Dreams, Faery magick, Handfasting, Happiness, Healing, Longevity, Love, Meditation, Money, Peace, Protection, Purification, Sexuality, Sleep, Virtue, Wishes

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Air

Deities: Aradia, Elves, Faeries, Hecate, Saturn

Lemon:

Attributes: Cleansing, Friendship, Longevity, Love, Moon magic, Purification, Repel negative energy, Solar magick, Spiritual opening

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: Diana, Juno, Luna, Neptune, Poseidon, Sun Gods

Lemongrass:

Attributes: Abundance, Calming, Fertility, Fortune, Luck, Lust, Prosperity, Purification, Psychic powers, Repel snakes, Soothing

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Air

Deities: Hermes, Mercury

Lettuce:

Attributes: Chastity, Divination, Love, Male sex magick, Moon magick, Protection, Sleep

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: Adonis, Juno, Luna

Lilac:

Attributes: Banishing, Death, Divination, Exorcism, Faery magick, Ghost banishing, Harmony, Luck, Memory, Passing over rituals, Peace, Protection, Psychic powers, Spiritual aid, Wisdom

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Faeries

Lily:

Breaking love spells, Fertility, Happiness, Marriage, Protection, Renewal

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: Juno, Kwan Yin, Nepthys, Venus

Lily of the Valley:

Attributes: Calming, Happiness, Harmony, Love, Marriage longevity, Mental powers,  Peace, Psychic powers, Repels negative energy

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Air

Deities: Aesculapias, Apollo, Maia

Lime:

Attributes: Calming, Faithfulness, Healing, Love, Loyalty, Protection, Purification, Tranquility

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Mars

Lotus:

Attributes: Fertility, Healing, Lock opening, Love, Luck, Meditation, Mental clarity, Passing-over rituals, Protection, Spirituality, Wishes

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: Egyptian pantheon, Hermes, Horus, Indian pantheon, Isis, Nefertum, Oshun, Osiris

M

Magnolia:

Attributes: Dreamwork, Fidelity, Love, Nature spells, Ostara, Peace

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Earth

Deities Venus

Maidenhair:

Attributes: Beauty, Love

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Freya, Venus

Mandrake:

Attributes: Binding, Fertility, Health, Love, Magick, Money, Power, Protection, Psychic powers, Sexuality

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury, Saturn

Element: Fire

Deities: Aphrodite, Circe, Diana, Hathor, Hecate, Saturn

Marshmallow Root

Attributes: Exorcism, Love, Protection, Psychic powers

Gender: F

Planet:

Element: Earth

Deities: Althea

Meadowsweet:

Attributes: Divination, Employment, Handfasting, Happiness, Harmony, Love, Peace, Respect

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

Deities: Blodeuwedd

Mimosa:

Attributes: Endings, Exorcism, Longevity, Love, Prophetic dreams, Protection, Purification, Visions

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: Saturn

Mint:

Attributes: Abundance, Creativity, Exorcism, Fertility, Fortune, Healing, Love, Luck, Lust, Money, Prosperity, Protection, Travel

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Air

Deities: Juno, Hecate, Minitha, Pluto

Mistletoe:

Attributes: Abundance, Business, Creativity, Exorcism, Faery magick, Fertility, Fortune, Handfasting, Healing, Health, Hunting, Love, Luck, Peace, Prosperity, Protection, Purity, Repels negative energy, Sexuality, Strength, Success

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Air

Deities: Apollo, Cernunnos, Faeries, Freya, Frigga, Herne, Oak King, Odin, Venus

Morning Glory:

Attributes: Affection, Banishing, Beauty, Binding, Happiness, Love, Peace, Protection, Travel

Gender: M

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Mugwort:

Attributes: Astral travel, Clairvoyance, Divination, Fertility, Healing, Lust, Prophetic dreams, Protection, Psychic powers, Scrying, Strength

Gender: F

Planet: Venus, Moon

Element: Earth

Deities: Aida Wedo, Artemis, Diana, Isis, Lakshmi, St. John

Mulberry:

Attributes: Baby blessing, Protection, Strength, Wiccaning

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Air

Deities: Diana, Mercury, Minerva, San Ku Fu Jen

Mullein:

Attributes: Courage, Divination, Exorcism, Health, Love, Protection

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Fire

Deities: Jupiter, Saturn

Musk:

Attributes: Attraction, Courage, Desirability, Fertility, Lust

Gender: F, M

Planet: Saturn, Sun

Element: Fire, Water

Deities: Athena, Shiva, Thoth

Mustard:

Attributes: Acceptance, Courage, Endurance, Faith, Fertility, Luck, Mental powers, Protection, Psychic powers , Purification, Voodoo charms

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Aesclepias

Myrrh:

Attributes: Blessing, Consecration, Exorcism, Healing, Health, Meditation, Power, Protection, Purification, Spirituality, Transformation

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: Adonis, Cybele, Demeter, Freya, Hecate, Hera, Isis, Juno, Marian, Nepthys, Oshun, Ra, Rhea, Saturn

Myrtle:

Attributes: Abundance, Consecration, Fertility, Fortune, Love, Luck, Money, Peace, Prosperity, Sleep, Youth

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Aphrodite, Artemis, Ashtoreth, Astarte, Cybele, Demeter, Freya, Hathor,  Marian, Venus

N

Narcissus:

Attributes: Abundance, Beauty, Fertility, Fortune, Harmony, Love, Luck, Prosperity, Sleep, Tranquility, Vanity

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Ceres, Narcissus, Persephone

Nasturtium:

Attributes: Ostara rituals, Patriotism, Pride

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Brigid, Incan Sun God

Neem:

Attributes: Death rites, Dedications, Initiation rites, Purification

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: Neemari, Devi

Neroli:

Beauty, Courage, Happiness, Joy, Love, Relaxing

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: N/A

Nettle:

Attributes: Consecration, Exorcism, Fishing magick, Funerary rituals, Healing, Lust, Protection, Repel negative energy

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Apolo, Chango, Helios, Oya, Ra, Shango, Thor

Nutmeg:

Attributes: Abundance, Clairvoyance, Divination, Feminine magick, Fertility, Fidelity, Fortune, Health, Hex-breaking, Luck, Money, Prosperity, Psychic abilities, Scrying, Visions, Wealth, Winter festivals

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Air

Deities: N/A

O

Oak:

Attributes: Balance, Faery magick, Fertility, Focus, Healing, Health, Love, Luck, Marriage, Money, Potency, Power, Prophetic dreams, Prosperity, Protection, Stang making, Strength, Success, Truth, Wands

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Blodeuwedd, Cernunnos, Cerridwen, Cybele, Dagda, Dianus, Erato, Faeries, Hecate, Helios, Heme, Janus, Jupiter, Oak King, Odin, Pan, Rhea, Thor, Vesta, Zeus

Oak Moss:

Attributes: Luck, Money, Protection, Strength

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Cernunnos, Herne, Woodland Gods

Oat:

Attributes: Money

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Earth

Deities: Brigid

Olive:

Attributes: Fertility, Fidelity, Healing, Lust, Marriage, Money, Peace, Potency, Prosperity, Protection, Sex magick

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Aphrodite, Apollo, Athena, Irene, Minerva, Poseidon, Ra, Zeus

Onion:

Attributes: Aphrodisiac, Exorcism, Healing, Lust, Money, Moon magick, Prophetic dreams, Prosperity, Protection, Stability, Repel negative energy

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Hecate, Isis

Orange:

Attributes: Abundance, Beauty, Divination, Fertility, Fortune, Happiness, Harmony, Joy, Love, Luck, Money, Peace, Prosperity, Warmth

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Cernunnos

Orchid:

Attributes: Concentration, Focus, Love, Memory

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Bacchus, Venus

Oregano:

Attributes: Energy, Joy, Love, Protection, Strength, Substance, Vitality

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: N/A

Orris:

Attributes: Attraction, Divination, Harmonious relationships, Home protection, Love, Psychic power

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Aphrodite, Erzulie, Hera, Iris, Osiris, Venus

P

Palm:

Attributes: Divination, Durability, Fertility, Focus, Renewal, Resurrection, Self-renewal

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Air, Fire

Deities: Isis

Pansy:

Attributes: Air magick, Divination, Dreams, Love, Plans, Rain magick, Romantic divination, Weather magick

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: Faeries

Papaya:

Attributes: Comforts, Friendships, Health, Love, Protection, Un-hexing

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Parsley:

Attributes: Fertility, Festivity, Home protection, Love, Luck, Lust. Prosperity, Protection, Purification, Strength, Vitality, Well-being

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Air

Deities: Aphrodite, Persephone, Venus, Zeus

Passion Flower:

Attributes: Calming, Friendship, Peace, Prosperity, Sexual vitality, Sleep, Tranquility

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Hestia, Hypnos, Yemaya

Patchouli:

Attributes: Abundance, Banishing, Earth magick, Earth Elemental powers, Exorcism, Fertility, Fortune, Grounding, Growth, Hex breaking, Legal matters, Love, Luck, Lust, Meditation, Money, Prosperity, Regeneration, Repels negativity, Sex magick, Spirituality, Weather magick

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn, Venus

Element: Earth

Deities: Gaia, Pan, Saturn

Peach:

Attributes: Exorcism, Fertility, Longevity, Love, Wisdom, Wishes

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Venus

Pennyroyal:

Attributes: Hex-breaking, Passing-over, Peace, Protection, Strength

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Demeter

Peony:

Attributes: Business success, Exorcism, Fairy magick, Good fortune, Luck, Protection, Un-hexing

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Faeries

Pepper:

Attributes: Banishing, Cleansing, Courage, Exorcism, Fidelity, Hex breaking, Initiation, Lust, Protection, Purifying, Warding charms

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Mars

Peppermint:

Attributes: Abundance, Divination, Energy, Fertility, Fortune, Healing, Love, Luck, Lust, Mental stimulant, Prophetic dreams, Prosperity, Psychic powers, Purification, Sleep, Visions

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Pluto, Zeus

Periwinkle:

Attributes: Love, Lust, Mental powers, Money, Passing over rituals, Protection

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Faeries, Venus

Persea:

Attributes: Beauty, Feminine magick, Happiness, Long life, Love, Lust, Water magick, Wealth

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Dionysus, Horus, Isis, Venus

Petunia:

Money matters

Pine:

Attributes: Abundance, Anti-hunger, Birth, Exorcism, Fertility, Fortune, Healing, Health, Humility, Immortality, Life, Luck, Money, Power, Prosperity, Protection, RE-birth, Rejuvenation, Stang making, Strength

Gender: M

Planet: Mars, Sun

Element: Air

Deities: Artemis, Astarte, Attis, Cybele, Dionysus, Jove, Pan, Poseidon, Sylvanus, Venus, Zeus

Pineapple:

Attributes: Chastity, Faithfulness, Lover return, Luck, Money

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Kaonohiokala

Pistachio:

Attributes: Unbinding, Breaking love spells

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Mars

Plantain:

Attributes: Healing, Protection, Repel negative energy, Snake repelling, Strength

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Earth

Deities: N/A

Plumeria:

Attributes: Attraction, Love, Persuasiveness, Success

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Buddha

Pomegranate:

Attributes: Abundance, Divination, Fertility, Fortune, Luck, Prosperity, Wealth, Wishes

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Fire

Deities: Ceres, Demeter, Dionysus, Hera, Juno, Persephone, Pluto, Saturn, Tammuz, Thor, Venus

Poplar:

Attributes: Communication, Determination, Flying, Money, Resistance, Shielding, Success, Wind magick

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: Hercules

Potato:

Attributes: Earth magick, Healing, Image magick, Luck, Money

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Earth

Deities: Gaia, Luna

Primrose:

Attributes: Love, Protection, Truth

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Earth

Deities: Freya

Q

Quassia:

Attributes: Friendship, Happiness, Love, Passion, Peace, Romantic dreams

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Queen of the Meadow:

Attributes: Divination, Happiness, Love, Peace, Power, Protection

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Quince:

Attributes: Fidelity, Handfasting, Happiness, Love, Luck, Protection

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Earth

Deities: Aphrodite, Juno, Venus

R

Radish:

Attributes: Lust, Protection, Sex magick

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: N/A

Ragwort:

Attributes: Courage, Faery magick, PRotection

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Faeries

Raspberry:

Attributes: Love, Protection, Safe pregnancy

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Innana, Isis, Oshun

Rice:

Attributes: Fertility, Money, Protection, Rain magick, Security, Weather magick

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Air

Deities: N/A

Rose:

Attributes: Abundance, Beauty, Clairvoyance, Divination, Dreams, Fertility, Fortune, Friendships, Handfasting, Healing, Love, Luck, Peace, Prosperity, Protection, Psychic powers, Visions

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Adonis, Aphrodite, Aurora, Cupid, Demeter, Eros, Freya, Hathor, Holda, Hypocrites, Isis

Rosemary:

Attributes: Aphrodisiac, Baby blessing, Cleansing, Elf magick, Exorcism, Faery magick, Friendships, Healing, Hex breaking, Longevity, Love, Lust, Memories, Mental powers, Protection, Psychic powers, Purification, Sleep, Strega magick, Wiccaning, Youth

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Elves, Faeries, Sea Spirits, Virgin Mary

Rowan:

Attributes: Astral travel, Healing, House blessing, Magick enhancing, Power, Protection, Psychic powers, Stang making, Success, Visions

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Aphrodite, Brigid, Druidic deities, Rowan, Thor

Rue:

Attributes: Banishing, Binding, Curse breaking, Exorcism, Grace, Healing, Health, Hex-breaking, Hex protection, Love, Mental powers, Protection, Reversing magick, Vision

Gender: M

Planet: Mars, Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Aradia, Diana, Hecate, Mars, Pan

S

Saffron:

Attributes: Aphrodisiac, Happiness, Healing, Hexes, Love, Lust, Protection, Psychic powers, Strength, Weather magick, Wind raising

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Ashtoreth, Eros

Sage:

Attributes: Animal guides, Aphrodisiac, Cleansing, Fertility, Healing, Hex breaking, House blessing, Immortality, Longevity, Prosperity, Protection, Purification, Wisdom, Wishes

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

Deities: Chiron, Consus, Jupiter, Obatala, Zeus

St. John’s Wort:

Attributes: Binding, Divination, Happiness, Health, Hex breaking, Love, Power, Protection, Strength

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Baldur

Sandalwood:

Attributes: Aphrodisiac, Consecration, Exorcism, Healing, Health, Protection, Purification, Spirituality, Wishes

Gender: F

Planet: Moon, Sun

Element: Water

Deities: Venus

Sassafras:

Attributes: Abundance, Fertility, Fortune, Health, Legal matters, Luck, Money, Prosperity

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Fire

Deities: N/A

Skullcap:

Attributes: Dedications, Fidelity, Handfastings, Initiation rites, Love, Oaths, Peace, Relaxation, Vows

Gender: F, M

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: Hera, Obatal

Snakeroot:

Attributes: Court proceedings, Love, Luck, Lust, Money, Prevent unnatural illness, Protection, Snake repelling

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: N/A

Snapdragon:

Attributes: Exorcism, Protection

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Spearmint:

Attributes: Healing, Love, Mental abilities, Money, Psychic powers, Wishes

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Mercury

Spikenard:

Attributes: Attraction, Faithfulness, Health, Longevity, Love, Luck

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Star Anise:

Attributes: Luck, Psychic powers

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

Deities: N/A

Strawberry:

Attributes: Attraction, Beauty, Divination, Fortune, Love, Luck, Success

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Earth, Water

Deities: Freya

Sunflower:

Attributes: Energy, Fertility, Health, Power, Protection, Wisdom, Wishes

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Apollo, Cernunnos, Demeter

Sweetgrass:

Attributes: Calling spirits, Peace

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Sweetgum:

Attributes: Earth magick, Fertility, Life changes, Prosperity, Protection, Sun magick

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Air. Fire

Deities: N/A

Sweetpea:

Attributes: Chastity, Courage, Friendship, Love, Loyalty, Pleasure, Strength

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Sycamore:

Attributes: Power, Strength

Gender:  M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Hathor, Nuit

T

Tamarisk:

Attributes: Exorcism, Protection

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: Anu, Bacchus, Osiris

Tangerine:

Attributes: Mental powers, Power, Psychic powers, Repels negative energy, Strength

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: N/A

Tansy:

Attributes: Beauty, Compassion, Death, Fidelity, Friendship, Happiness, Health, Hexing, Immortality, Invisibility, Joy, Love, Longevity, Luck, Meditation, Ostara rituals, Passing over rituals, Pleasure, Protection, Re-birth, Renewal, Reconciliation, Travel, Youth

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Mary

Tarragon:

Attributes: Chalice consecration, Compassion magick, Goals, Healing, Lasting interest

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Air

Deities: Lilith

Tea Tree:

Attributes: Harmony, Healing, Peace

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Fire

Deities: Jupiter

Thistle:

Attributes: Exorcism, Healing, Hex breaking, Protection, Strength

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Minerva, Thor

Thyme:

Attributes: Affection, Courage, Divination, Dreams, Faery magick, Health, Healing, Health, Love, Loyalty, Protection, Psychic powers, Purification, Sleep, Smudging rooms, Strength

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Faeries

Ti:

Attributes: Healing, Protection

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Fire

Deities: Kane, Lono, Pele

Toadstool:

Attributes: Faery magick, Rain magick, Weather magick

Gender: M

Planet: Earth

Element: Water

Deities: Dionysus, Faeries

Tobacco:

Attributes: Astral, Banishing, Confidence, Divination, Dreams, Healing, Legal matters, Peace, Prophecy, Purification, Strength

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Native American pantheons

Tonka Bean:

Courage, Longevity, Love, Luck, Money, Prosperity, Wishes

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Tormentil:

Attributes: Love, Protection

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Thor

Tulip:

Attributes: Abundance, Fertility, Fortune, Love, Luck, Prosperity, Protection

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Earth

Deities: N/A

U

Unicorn Root:

Attributes: Faery magick, Hex breaking, Protection, Uncrossing spells

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Earth

Deities: Faeries, Unicorns

Uva Ursi:

Attributes: Astral, Divination, Dreams, Prophecy, Psychic workings

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

V

Valerian:

Attributes: Dream magick, Harmony, Love, Protection, Purification, Quarrel mending, Sleep

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Obatala

Vanilla:

Attributes: Beauty, Breaking habits, Chastity, Clarity, Communication, Compassion, Courage, Divination, Dreams, Eloquence, Energy, Fertility enhancement, Fidelity, Friendship, Happiness, Intelligence, Joy, Longevity, Love, Luck, Lust, Magical powers, Meditation, Mental powers, Peace, Pleasure, Power, Prophecy, Protection, Psychic powers, Purification, Reconciliation, Rejuvenation, Self-improvement, Sex magick, Sleep, Travel, Wisdom, Youth

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Air

Deities: Hecate, Saturn, Venus

Vervain:

Attributes: Abundance, Astral, Binding, Blessings to children, Calming, Chastity, Creativity, Divination, Faery magick, Fertility, Fortune, Healing, Love, Luck, Money, Peace, Prosperity, Protection, Purification, Sleep, Stimulates action, Tranquil dreams, Wand making, Youth

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Aphrodite, Aradia, Artemis, Bast, Cerridwen, Diana, Faeries, Hecate, Hermes, Innana, Isis, Juno, Jupiter, Kali, Mars, Thor, Venus, Zeus

Vetivert:

Attributes: Abundance, Anti-theft, Attraction, Business, Exorcism, Fertility, Fortune, Hex breaking, Love, Luck, Money, Peace, Prosperity, Protection, Repels negative energy, Voodoo magick

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Earth

Deities: Aphrodite, Pan, Venus

Violet:

Attributes: Abundance, Animal Guide work, Balance, Beauty, Compassion, Devotion, Faery magick, Faithfulness, Fertility, Fidelity, Fortune, Friendship, Happiness, Healing, Hex breaking, Inspiration, Joy, Longevity, Love, Loyalty, Luck, Lust, Meditation, Passion, Peace, Pleasure, Prosperity, Protection, Reconciliation, Repel negativity, Transformation, Wishes, Youth

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Water

Deities: Aphrodite, Attis, Cupid, Cybele, Demeter, Faeries, Io, Jupiter, Mary, Mithras, Venus, Zeus

W

Walnut:

Attributes: Blessings of the Gods, Divination, Dreams, “Food of the Gods“, Health, Infertility, Mental powers, Wishes

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Jupiter

Watermelon:

Attributes: Aphordisiac, Strength

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Wheat:

Attributes: Abundance, Conception, Fertility, Fortune, Luck, Money, Prosperity

Gender: F

Planet: Venus

Element: Earth

Deities: Cailleach, Ceres, Demeter, Ishtar, Isis, Tammuz, Zeus

White Willow Bark:

Attributes: Blessings, Divination, Healing, Love, Moon magick, Protection, Spirit communication

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: Artemis, Belili, Belinus, Ceres, Hecate, Hera, Mercury, Persephone

Willow:

Attributes: Astral work, Besom making, Death, Divination, Empathy, Enchantments, Fertility, Healing, Inspiration, Love, Moon magick, Passing over rituals, Protection, Psychic energies, Spirits, Water giver, Wishes

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: Artemis, Belili, Belenus, Ceres, Diana, Hecate, Hera, Mercury, Moon Goddess, Persephone

Wintergreen:

Attributes: Healing, Health, Hex-breaking, Protection, Purification

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: N/A

Wisteria:

Attributes: Divination, Obstacles overcome, Prosperity, Psychic powers opened, Vibrations raised

Gender: M

Planet: Mercury

Element: Air

Deities:

Witch Hazel:

Attributes: Chastity, Cool passions, Protection

Gender: M

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Witches

Wolfsbane:

Attributes: Invisibility, Protection

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: Hecate

Wood Betony:

Attributes: Dream magick, Elemental magick, Nightmares, Protection, Purification, Repels negative energy, Weather magick

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

Deities: N/A

Wormwood:

Attributes: Animals, Calling spirits, Clairvoyance, Divination, Love, Protection, Psychic powers, Transformation

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Aida Wedo, Artemis, Diana, Innana, Iris, Isis, Lakshmi, Sif

Y

Yarrow:

Attributes: Attracts friends, Banishing, Contact w/ others, Courage, Divination, Dream work, Exorcism, Faery magick, Fear repelling, Handfasting, Happy marriage, Healing, Longevity, Love, Prophecy, Protection, Psychic powers, Purification, Repel negative energy

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn, Venus

Element: Water, Earth

Deities: Achilles, Aphrodite, Devil, Faeries, Oshun, Yemaya

Yellowdock:

Attributes: Business, Fertility to conceive, Healing, Luck, Money, Prosperity

Gender: M

Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

Deities: N/A

Yew:

Attributes: Death, Hex-breaking, Immortality, Passing over rituals, Past-life regression, Psychic awareness, Raising the dead, Re-birth, Spirits, Stang making

Gender: F

Planet: Saturn

Element: Water

Deities: Hecate, Odin

Ylang Ylang:

Attributes: Abundance, Aphrodisiac, Depression, Faery magick, Fertility, Fortune, Insight, Love, Luck, Lust, Opportunity, Peace, Prosperity, Sex, Visions

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: Faeries

Yucca:

Attributes: Divination, Dreams, Prophecy, Protection, Purification, Transmutation

Gender: M

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: N/A

Z

Zinnia:

Attributes: Absent friends, Affection, Child-like innocence, Faery magick, Friendship, Joy, Love, Lust, Strength

Gender: F

Planet: Moon

Element: Water

Deities: Faeries