The Magick Pantry Let me first say that while these are magickal proceedures, they are not intended to be taken literally. They are taken purely for their historical value, hence quite archiac. With this in mind it is suggested that you keep an open mind relalizing that perhaps someone did use them at one time. These posts were written to assist those participating in CrystaLink's ASTRAL_CHEF and ASTRAL_GARDEN echos, or anyone for that matter that can benefit from its content. These were referenced from "The Book of Spells" by David Norris & Jacquemine Charrott-Lodwidge, with additional references were by Greg Edwards. It is intended as a general historical reference which gives those familiar with a Larder, a touch of past history and what items might have been included. Some of the items my not be considered ethically sound, so please use your own descretion and training to make these decisions for yourself. Purpose and Directions: The larder or Magick Pantry must be kept secret and secure. It is a place to store all of your magickal herbs and various plants that the magician needs to rely on in the day to day practice of magick. It is a perfect accompinemt for the plants grown in your Magick Garden. Find a cupboard or recess in the house, preferably one with a solid oak door. Be careful not to let in too much light. Damp must be kept out. Open the door swiftly, put in and take out what is needed and close the door again. Keep all the herbs separate and in labelled jars. Rose water and orange water must be placed in earthenware pots since glass would allow the light to draw their potency. Similarly, precious substances such as Ambergris and Caviare should be stored in boxes of Almond-Wood as this is the safest of all of the known woods. To prepare well all spells and magick potions, the vessels, including mortar and pestle, spoons, and knives should be perfectly clean and in some cases brand new. For the more demanding spells the utensils can be used only once. More difficult spells or those requiring open cooking, may need the construction of a tripod of sticks from which to hang the pot. Keep a selection of Efficacious Sticks. Elder, Almond, Oak, Apple, Rowan, Medlar, Vine, Cypress and Laurel branches can be gathered for this purpose. For spells promising fertility and youth Hippomanes is needed. (Of course this is definately NOT used by all magicians, and therefore I'd suggest using your own descretion.) This is the foamy white substance found on the head of a newly born foal. The vital parts of a wolf as well as its skin, teeth and feet will be useful in many spells, particularly those warding off injury and attack. To inspire, excite or please the pet cat, a supply of its favourite herb, Catnip is also needed. For making spells stay or even last for ever, dissolved gold, silver and pearls are necessary. To ease all pains, to secure death for oneself or to bring it under control and make a slave of it Hemlock is the classic herb. Legend said that to eat only a little of the herb will make someone your slave for life. I don't know if that it actually the case, as I've never really wanted a slave, so I've never tried using it in this manner. It sounded dangerous anyway.. Varied additional supplies that are available thru some Herbalists and which are good for the Magick Pantry are: Camel Oil, Dragon's Blood, and Unicorn Milk (of course these are simply the man-made names) Again, check with your local herbalist for recipes of this nature. If you have recipes for either of these three, I'd certainly appreciate and welcome your posting them. In the next post labeled "The Magick Pantry" you will see some of the herbs to include as well as their names and some of their magickal uses. These are some of the most important ones to read: Marigold, Nettle, Wild Teasel, Celandine, Periwinkle, Pennyroyal, Houndstongue, Henbane, Lily, Mistletoe, Centuary, Sage, Vervain, Celery, Rose, and Snakeweed. The Magick Pantry - Contents of Stock Summary The following items should be included in your Magick Pantry. Following this post, additional posts will follow describing each in some detail, as well as giving the Magickal uses of each. I certainly hope that you will enjoy them. ALCHONE, ASPHODEL, BASIL, BELLADONNA, BETONY, BLOOD ROOT, BRIMSTONE, CELANDINE, CELERY, CENTAURY, CHICORY, CORIANDER, DILL, ELECAMPANE, ERINGO, GINSENG, HENBANE, HOUNDSTONGUE, IVY, LETTUCE, LILY, MANDRAKE, MARIGOLD, MISTLETOE, MUGWORT, MUSK OIL, MYRTLE, NETTLE, ORRIS, PENNYROYAL, PERIWINKLE, PEONY, ROSE, ROSEMARY, RUE, SAGE, SNAKEWEED, SPIKENARD, SUNTULL, TONKA BEANS, VERVAIN, WHALE OIL, WILD TEASEL, and WORMWOOD. The Magick Pantry - Alchone If this herb can be obtained, it must be kept and preserved as something precious. It is the herb of the sun itself. It can heal the passions and secret griefs of any sufferer. It can also soothe the stomach. Moreover, it increases a man's sexual potency if the juice is taken prudently. To carry the root is tot keep the eyes free from infection or even from seeing anything to grieve them. A little Alchone tucked inside a shirt will preserve the wearer from fits. It is also an anti-congestant and an anti-depressant. Your selection of canisters should be glass, ceramic, or earthenware, and properly labeled. Remember, it is a very vital root for any magician to stock. The Magick Pantry - Asphodel This is the same beautiful flower that covered the fields of Elysium but it is useful, too. It works best under the influence of Saturn, since it belongs to this planet. Use Asphodel for pains in the legs or bladder. Boil a little of the root in water and drink the resulting infusion. A little of the root itself, carried in a clean white linen cloth, will protect against all negativity . keep some wrapped up and hidden in the house for the same effect. Teething children should carry a little Asphodel and their teeth will break through and grow painlessly. It also offers ver good nighttime protection against fears and enemies alike. The Magick Pantry - Basil Some say that this is the most controversial of all the herbs. To many it is sweet and charming. To others it is poison. In all ancient writers Basil excites rude abuse. A French physician of the Middle Ages has claimed that to inhale the herb causes a scorpion to be born in the brain, or as the modern doctor might say, madness. Of course, opinion again vary.. although many myths have their basis of fact. On the other hand, Basil is a popular and harmless cooking herb. Include it fresh in the Magick Pantry. Grow a new sprig in the garden and it will keep you safe. The Hindus solemnly hold it to be a sacred herb and worship it. So dear to them is the Basil that they place a sprig of it in each room of their house to bring safety and prosperity. Hang it on the inside of the door of each room. Sprinkle a pinch on food just before it is eaten and your soul will be joined to that of the goddess of love. The married partner who has eaten Basil will be truly loved, but may also become quarrelsome. The Magick Pantry - Belladonna The term deadly nightshade accurately describes the strength of this powerful Herb. Sweno's army, when it invaded Scotland, was lulled into repose while its leaders were negotiating a truce which the Scots never intended to accept. The Scottish side provided the drinks and refreshments by mutual agreement. The drink given to Sweno's army was laced with Belladonna. The wretched army fell into a deep slumber and, thus made vunerable, was overwhelmed by the Scots. The name Belladonna derives from two sources. The herb has its cosmetic uses and can make a lady twice as beautiful by enlarging her pupils into a seductive wide-eyed look. But also it is named after a notorious Italian poisoner, Leucota, who viciously used the herb to poison all her beautiful female friends. The Magick Pantry - Betony This herb is also known as Bishopswort but in the Magick Pantry it may not be given an ecclesiastical name. Call it Betony or Wood Betony and hold it in awe. It has both a good and evil reputation. The physician to the Emperor Caesar Augustus used it to treat his master for liver trouble, to protect him from Epidemics and to assist in his digestion. It was said that the Emperor used it to guard against Witchcraft although this term was mistaken in those days. On the other hand, Betony is said to have been invaluable to sorcerers' spells. It's forbidden name was bestowed upon it because it tended to grow around old abbeys and derelict churches. Many people said that the herb was hiding on consecrated ground from the may occultists who would use it for evil purposes. In opposing various forms of witchcraft, it may be used as follows: Gently flake the dried leaves and strew them in an unbroken circle around the outside of the house or place you want to protect. Make the ring thicker under windows and outside the door. A wall of good enfluences will arise and no evil deed will be able to pass through it. Caution: If Betony is consumed it is sure to cause death by vomiting. Please do not use this herb in edible recipes! Betony is a natural enemy of the vine, for their tendrils repel one another. Keep them far apart in the Magick Pantry for this simple reason. Like described in the Astral_Garden, there are those herbs and trees that simply will not tolerate each other. The Magick Pantry - Blood Root Store this herb in a jar labelled with a false name but remember that the Blood Root is within. This herb is the root of deception. The Indians of North America used it to stain their bodies, and it is used still to dye fabrics. Taken internally it can produce a hypnotic trance. (use with caution as with all magickally oriented herbs) Carried on a person, inside a leather pouch or a money-purse, Blood Root will protect that individual from negativity or evil influences. But keep it close to money for it demands payment. If a home is suffering from an evil influence, put a sprig of Blood Root under the doorstep or windowsill and all will be well. Any definite spell or curse placed by a witch can be reversed by flinging broken pieces of the root onto his/her doorstep. However, never trust Blood root unquestioningly, as it often times will suprise you. The Magick Pantry - Brimstone No substance is more powerful in invoking or in driving off the forces of evil. Find a piece of red paper and lay this on a metal plate or dish. On the paper place a pinch of Brimstone. do this four times and put each dish in one of the four corners of the room in which the spell is being cast. At midnight set light to the Brimstone. Address each dish with the following words: * I command all evil to flee this house never to return * Remember to leave all windosw wide open during this rite or the smoke of the brimstone will be unable to escape and with it the spell. Some say that Brimstone is actually a resin like that of Frankinsence. The Magick Pantry - Celandine Never confuse this important plant with the lesser Celandine or Pilewort used traditionally in the treatment of haemorrhoids. The true Celandine is at once a more disagreeable and more potent herb. It has black seeds; its taste is bitter and caustic; and its smell is foul. But its influence is not to be sneered at. Swallows and Eagles build their nests in May, and the flowering of the Celandine in that month is linked with this annual domestic impulse in the animal kingdom. the herb has its human uses and it is a useful medicine for jaundice, corns, warts, sore eyes, toothache, ringworm and scurvy. John Parkinson, in a manual published in 1640, writes that he has it on good authority that any sufferer from yellow jaundice will benefit by putting a sprinkling of Celandine herb beneath his bare feet and treading it. But its influence is wider still. If the heart of a mole can be obtained, cooked with this herb and then consumed, it will vanquish all enemies and win any law suits that may be contested. More somberly, when placed on the head of a dying man, the Celandine will disclose whether or not the sufferer is bound to lose his fight. If the man must die, he will sing out in a loud voice, but he will weep if he can be saved. I thought that was interesting indeed. Something that I simply must try when given the unfortunate opportunity. The Magick Pantry - Celery Known traditionally as smallage, this plant has always been one of the prime aphrodisiac foods and more will be made of this kind of magick in the final set, probably located in the Astral_Home echo. The rumour is that the famous cola drinks contain elements of this particularly stimulating tonic. Gather the root when it is still green, drench it in the oil of the Cypress tree and place the greenery in a pot of gruel. Leave the gruel for one year. Worms will appear, and those who carry these worms with them will be gentle and kind and able to triumph over their enemies. To make Oxen etc, faithfull and certain to follow their masters, tie a pouch of the celery herb around their necks. The length of time unfortunately was not specified. The Magick Pantry - Centaury The Sun dominates this herb as it does many of the other Magick Plants. A Centaury opens its flowers just as the sun comes out and closes them as the sun goes in. Often the Centaury is described as an agreeable herb and is prescribed for Dyspepsia, but care is advised. If this herb is mixed with the blood of a female lapwing or a black Plover and poured with oil into a lamp, all those who circle the light will believe themselves to be magickal and will live in a world of delusions, so it is stated. Throw the same mixture into a fire when the stars are shining and then watch the heavens. The stars will seem to clash and collide. Put some of the herb and the birs's blood on a bandage and push it under a foe's nostril, it is said that he/she will suddenly be filled with groundless fears and run for his/her life. The Magick Pantry - Chicory Do not despise Chicory or Endive and exile it to some anaemic salad. Endive was a divinely chosen herb among many cultures. Traditionally, it is a herb of love. To prepare it and bring it to usefulness, chop the Chicory and let it dry. Grind it to a powder and as a love philtre add it to your food or drink. (especially to flavour coffees) It is said to do so without telling anyone and, if the secret is well kept, this philtre will arouse passion in the lover of one's choice. For good fortune in romance an Endive must be carried on the person. Be sure to renew it every two weeks with a fresh plant as its period of potency is not more than fifteen days. Legend states that in certain ceremonies, if carried out with Chicory, can make the man who eats the plant invisible to human view. Crusaders hung it on their banners, explorers carried it as they wen venturing into a new land, and prospectors looking for gold in California kept a sprig of it in hand for good luck. Gather Chickory at midnight on the 25th of July. Force a sprig into any lock that will not open, and pass another sprig over parchment bearing a description of any problem to be solved; all obstacles and difficulties will be resolved according to legend about this herb. The Magick Pantry - Coriander In many religions Coriander is honoured. Several references have been documented that the Gods demanded that this herb should be used with four others at each feast. Its other uses are not so godly however. Grate the seeds into a glass of your best, matured wine. Give them to a lover and strong passions will be arroused. But as the powder is placed in the wind, the lovers must chant together with the following couplet: "Warm seed, warm heart, Let us never be apart" Nothing else must be said according to legend. When the wine is drunk its influence will be felt sruging in the blood, so it is written. The Coriander seed is round and has an appearance like that of a small nut. Its shell is eaisly broken once dried, and has a very pleasent fragrance. The Magick Pantry - Dill Like with most herbs, the myths are endless for this one as well. It was said that many attributed this herb as a cure for the common hiccough. Many even thought that the common hiccough was a result of a witch with a frog in the throat. The power of the Dill shouldn't be taken lightly, as it should be greatly appreciated by any magician. To cure the common hiccough, stir a small pinch of Dill into a syrup made from Black Cherries which have been laying in the Magick Pantry for at least (3) days. When the powder is well dissolved in the liquid/syrup, allow a few drops to trickle down the throat without swallowing. The hiccoughs will cease. Dill was also included in many love potions. Here's an old recipe used here as an example. Steep a few sprigs in hot sweet wine. A few minutes after drinking on half of a pint, it is said that passions will be excited. Dill is also quite effective in removing negative energies throughout the household. As with Basil, the same techniques are applied. The Magick Pantry - Elecampane Make a light distillation of this herb and bathe the face with it. Do not use a mirror and trust the herb. It is said that by utilizing this tincture on the face that it will profit the complexion by removing unwanted blemishes etc. Elecampane is of course also an effective love potion. Aristotle himself taught how to make them, using this herb as follows. Take Vervain and Mistletoe and place these herbs in a got oven with the Elecampane. Dry and mingle the sprigs thoroughly. Pound the three herbs into a powder and put this into the food or drink of the one desired. The magickal combination of each herb bound together by this process is said to achieve a potency far beyond that of your basic aphrodisiac's strength. The Magick Pantry - Eringo This unique herb has many benefits, not to mention its tremendous powers in the healing plane. It is a necessary part of any Magick Pantry, one that should never be left out. To heal broken bones or simply to draw out thorns from lacerated flesh, make a paste of the herb by brusing the root and boiling it with pig fat (bacon, fatback etc. although salted lard works best) Apply the mixture as a poultice. The bones will heal, the thorns will spring out and the skin will mend without a any trace of a scar. Again, this herb has many benefits. Like most herbs it too can be used in Love Potions. To improve a love affair or invigorate a marriage bed, grind the root into small pieces or into a powder. Add this to your food or better still, to that of the uninspired partner. Legend says that the ancient Greek women always wore a sprig of Eringo to ensure that they kept the love of a man. The Magick Pantry - Ginseng With the exception of tea's, Ginseng is the most celebrated plant in all the Orient. The Chinese have great faith in its curative and strengthening properties and call it the "Chinchona of China". The Manchurian Genseng comes from the Emperor's mother country, from the soil from which legend says sprang the `God of Heaven'. It is, therefore, gragrded as more efficacious than the Ginseng grown anywere else. When the plant grows wild its root resembles the shape of the human body, and like Mandrake, it is thought to be most appropriate for most any Magickal spell. Medicinally, Ginseng is a cure for colds, skin diseases and poor circulation of the blood. It's anti-spasmodic properties relieve certain forms of hiccoughs too, like Dill. But it is also a very powerful remedy for rheumatism. When taken regularly it removes general fatague and promotes good health. Combined with the juices of a ripe pineapple, it is an excellent medication for indigestion. Ginseng is particularly useful in the treatment of young children as well as the aged. Ginseng tea can be made from the dried leaves or blossoms of the herb. After the berries are gathered select the brightest, cleanest leaves from a mature plant. Place them above the kitchen stove in thick bunches turning and mixing well until they are very dry. Store away in paper sacks. When the leaves are steeped in boiling water, just like ordinary tea, the liquid may be drunk with cream and sugar if preferred. Another recipe for general use in the home is the following: Take a piece of the root when it is very hard and dry. Break it up with a hammer and grind it through a coffee mill several times until it is reduced to a fine powder. To three ounces of the powder add one ounce of milk, sugar and sixty drops of oil of wintergreen. Mix all the ingredients well and store in a glass jar. The correct dosage in one teaspoonful to a small teacup of boiling water. When the drink is cooled it should be taken before each meal. It may also be filtered served with cream and sugar, and consumed with the meal. Made as directed this is a most pleasant aromatic tea and has a good effect on the stomach, brain and the nervous system. If the evening cup of ginseng is much larger, it is a good and safe hypnotic, producing a deep restfull, natural sleep. I would also like to point out that Ginseng does not always have to be considered as a medicinal herb, as that is simply not true. It is a food, a plant that can be consumed as food. Therefore one should consider Ginseng as a food rather than a medicinal remedy. Long before the Chinese used herbs medicinally, they realized the benefits of Ginseng as a food. When the warring states began, they began to search out its benefits medicinally. Now that we are once again a peace loving lot, we once again should realize these `food' related benefits as opposed to the medicinal ones. The Magick Pantry - Henbane Mystery has shrouded this herb for centuries. Many legends both true and false as also accompanied it for this reason. To begin with let's discuss the hard cold facts.. NEVER play with Henbane. It is as powerful as Opium and a deadly poison if taken unprepared. NEVER let a child sleep near a Henbane as if he/she does, they will never wake. Not suprisingly, it was a traditional means of putting down a mad dog in years gone by. The dog was induced to eat meat mixed with this herb and the animal quickly died. Curiously, too, if the juice of the henbane is poured into a silver cup, the cup will shatter into thousands of fragments. For those who enjoy a dish of Hare in season but cannot endure the hunt, the following is recommended. Mix Henbane with the blood of a young hare and hang the hare's skin, smeared with the potion, outside the kitchen door. According to English legend, every Hare from the neighborhood will gather there and will not move until the skin is removed. Truly a Magickal enchantment, if the legend holds true. The benefits of Henbane to human life are more controversial. It is said that if the feet are washed in Henbane a peacefull sleep ensues. Sniffing the flowers can have the same effect. Hundred of years ago, dentists would burn Henbane in a sizzling dish of charcoal surrounded by water, and the desperate patient would be prevailed upon to inhale the fumes. The charlatan would then claim that he could see the wicked, achebearing worms make their escape from the painful tooth into the water around the coals. The chronicler of this story notes that the dentist had usually arranged for an accomplice to drop tiny pieces of lute strings into the water, as the patient closed his eyes against the smoke. When he looked again he would feel less pain, owing to the numbing effects of the Henbane, and he could actually see his toothache wriggling in the dish. Truly an interesting herb that does warrent some serious considerations, both in the preperation and storage of the plant. Please do be careful when working with this herb. The Magick Pantry - Houndstongue If you are squeemish please pass this entry as it's quite detailed, although an interesting addition to the Magick Pantry. The herb is however a part of the pantry. Whether or not this herb does neutralize the bite of a mad dog cannot be stated authoritatively. But it is recorded that when strewn under the feet of a barking dog Houndstongue will silence the nuisance.. hence the name. The full spell is a bit more complicated. Capture a frog (it must be a young female) remove its heart and reproductive organs and crush them into the powdered plant. Put the paste in an open dish outside your door or wherever the annoying dogs choose to bark. Soon all the dogs in the neighborhood will gather around the pot. Take enough sprigs of the herb and push one under the front toe of each of the dogs assembled. They will be dumb henceforward. A more infuriating yapping can be even more effectively silenced. Tie a small sachet of Houndstongue around the dog's neck, where it cannot be ripped by the creature's teeth. The animal will turn round and round wildly and finally drop down in a state of paralysis, barely distinguishable from death. These techniques are of course totally used at the magicians own personal descresion. The Magick Pantry - Ivy (General) Ivy should have been planted into the very stones of the house. It is also a necessary part of the Magick Garden (see the Astral_Garden echo for details). When it has wrapped itself around the home, it is said that everyone within will be well guarded against negative influences and illness. However, it is said that if the ivy withers and does not thrive around the outside walls, financial storms will follow. Old legends tell us that wine merchants, and innkeepers, or anyone who is making wines or throwing a party, must have a pring of Ivy outside their door. Bacchus owns this plant and he will bring special merriment to any house where it is honoured. It is also said that in doing the above that there will be gaiety but no drunkenness. Another legends states that if a girl who wants to find herself a spouce, takes a sprig of Ivy, laying it gently on her breasts and repeats these words, will find her awaited mate. "Ivy, ivy, I love thee, In my bosom I put thee, The first young man who speaks to me, My future husband he shall be.." It is also said that the concentrated essense of Ivy dropped into the nostrils will cure the common cold. In many religions the Evergreen Ivy is a symbol of everlasting life. To others, more pessimistic, the gentle Ivy is a poison. Which ever view you choose, the Ivy is definately an essential accompaniment to your Magick Pantry. The Magick Pantry - Lettuce This is a very powerful plant, homely as it is. Lettuce seems to be woman's enemy, and is said to be a chief cause of infertility. Never let more than twelve lettuces grow in the garden and never keep more than one lettuce in the pantry or the house will lack children. Legend sometimes says otherwise, although many still swear by this today. For the Romans lettuce was a good counter to drunkenness and titillated the sexual appetite after a good dinner. The earliest English sources use in severe cases of insomnia. The Egyptian Pharahos prized the Lettuce and offered it in worship to the high gods. It has been said that nutritionally, some forms of Lettuce are perhaps absent of nutrients. It is also documented that Lettuce contains 70% vegetable fats and water, which unlike popular thought, is not the best choice of dieters using this philosophy. The Magick Pantry - Lilly This is the flower of the moon and its best known action is to cool and pacify. Medically, its strength lies in settling fevers and particularly in soothing madness. Freckles and sunburn respond to the gentle application of the distilled water of the Lilly. In some phases of the Magickal world the power of the Lily is somewhat different however. Some say it produces madness, as does the moon herself, although these cases are few and far between. Again, the following may not be pleasent for some. If you tend to be squeemish, I'd simply go to the next entry. Gather the flowers when the sun is in the sign of Leo. Mix the dried flowers with the juice of the Laurel or of the Bay tree and leave the paste under a pile of cow dung. Worms will breed. Catch the worms, dry them and make up a powder. Secretly sprinkle this powder on the chosen victim's clothes or even try to drop some down his neck. So long as this powder sticks to him, never again will the enemy rest or sleep. The oil drawn from the origional dung will cause an instant fever, if you can succeed in anointing the victim's brow with it. However, if the enemy is just to be given a severe warning, drop some of the oil into his milk churns and endeavour to cover these with the skin of a cow of a single colour. His cows will dry up till the spell is undone. As you can see from the above, many cultures have abused the essences of the Lily, which in itself is a shame. The herb/plant is a beautiful creation with many benefits to mankind. Why someone would want to harm another using this addition to the Magick Pantry does not seem to be logical. The Magick Pantry - Mandrake The root of Mandragora crudely suggests the appearance of a man. It hardly needs saying that this plant is probably the most famous in magick lore. Superstition decrees that Mandrake must not be plucked from the ground by human hand or else the plant will kill. Instead, a cord was wound round the plant and then tethered to the collar of a manageable dog. When the dog was chased, the root was pulled up and a hideous cry was heard to come from the plant. Again, according to superstition, the dog did not survive the ordeal. Many superstitions of this nature shroud this mysterious herb. The great sorcer Merlin knew of ways to call upon the Mandrake's powers, as well as the proper method of harvesting the herb. Legend has it that it was from the Mandrake that Morgan Lefae' was bewitched into Merlin's dominion. Some say that they still are incased together for eternity below Stonehenge as a result of the Mandrake's influence. It is said that a little of the juice makes a man vain. More makes him an imbecile. Mandrake is dedicated to Circe, the goddess of fecundity, celebrated for her golden hair and notorious for her knowledge and application of Witchcraft. Circe's Island, the basis of many legends is said to hold the true key to the Mandrake and it's uses. Although no man has ever returned from the island sane, according to legend. To keep this herb in the house sufficiently guarantees against sickness and peril. When it was impossible to find a single uncloven root, again legend says that some of the ancient ones formed peices of Mandrake into human figures. These also held tremendous magickal powers. A man would order a female form and a woman would order a male form. Each believed that the affection of the opposite sex could be secured thereby. Many people burried their entire wealth by the Mandrake plant in the belief that the pot of gold would increase. Moreover, the powder is an indispensable aphrodisiac. Even the sceptical Pliny has no doubt about this. In parts of Asia the root was worn to increase vertility and provide protection against attacks on the person. Most magicians value the potiency of the Mandrake, and heed the cautions thereby. Many spells will be useless unless the herb is burned as an incense while an incantation is being chanted. Never forget that the Mandrake is supposed to be a living creature, engendered underground from a dean man's seed dropped on the earth as he was hanged for murder. The Magick Pantry - Marigold Taken as a mouthwash, this is an ancient remedy for a toothache. The marigold is a well known stimulant too. For hundreds of years, particularly in Holland, it has been the favourite flavouring for stews and potions. As it is the flower of the sun and a summer flowering plant, it must be kept in a dried state. The ancients believed that the Marigold's power to turn with the sun was a highly magickal property. Rightly used it would ensure perfect peace and prosperity to the bearer. But the following spell must be worked with the Marigold before it can succeed. Always gather this flower in August when the sun is in Leo. Wrap the head from one of the flowers in a Laurel leaf or in the leaves of the May tree or Hawthorn. Add a wolf's tooth. No one will say a bad word against the wearer of this charm. Let him sleep with this small parcel under the pillow and if any man secretly wrongs him the enemy's identity will be made known. If a marigold is left in your circle, or church, it is said that no woman that has commited adultery against a wronged and faithful husband will be able to leave the spot where they stand or sit. If any spell demands that the marigold is eaten, make sure that this is done at breakfast time ONLY! The Magick Pantry - Mistletoe Legend and superstition place this plant on the higest plane of magickal power and influence. Most of us involved in magick, have heard stories of the Mistletoe, or have utilized it in one fashion or another. It is said that to hang Mistletoe round the neck would ward off negative influences. Its habit of growing on trees, and particularly the mighty Oak has been attributed to the plant's anxiety never to touch the ground. It's a benefical exchange as the Mistletoe actually protects the Oak from the dangers of lightning. The Anglo-Saxons worshipped Mistletoe as a present form of heaven and as the sprem of the holy Oak tree. It has been written that only the Druid, robed in white and carrying his golden sickle, could gather it, and then but once a year during a ceremony dignified by the sacrifice of two white bulls. At this ritual sacred songs were sung in honour of the plant and prayers to the gods were addressed to it. Every New Year the Mistletoe was distributed to each family and used throughout the following twelve months as a remedy against all ills and as an antidote to all poisons. More specific among its uses is its power to open all locks. How to perform this ritual is unfortunately not recorded in any text that I could find. If you know or have read it somewhere, I'd certainly appreciate the post. It has also been said to test whether a man's prophecy is valid, lay a pinch of Mistletoe mixed with rosinweed on his tongue. If the prophecy is true the man will repeat his statement. Otherwise he will forget it. It is also a well-authenticated phenomenon that if the mixture just described is rubbed into a swallow's wing and the wing is the left hanging from a tree, the birds from miles around will spped to the spot and hover there indefinitely. Exactly why anyone would want to do the above with the swallow is not recorded. The Magick Pantry - Mugwort This is definitely a female herb and its medical uses are generally in the interest of women. With ordinary field daisies, it may be used to smooth away all hard cysts and bumps that grow in the neck. In medieval witchcraft and in some modern traditions, Mugwort could bestow gifts of Clairvoyance if respectfully used. One of its names is Witch Herb. Crystal Gazers/Scryers valued the plant and would strew their tables and tabernacles with sprigs of dried Mugwort. The plant's tendency to lean to the north as it grows made many people believe that it was magnetic and responsive to many supernatural messages. To dream about the future, take three leaves of Mugwort and tuck them inside a hemp bag. Put the bag under the pillow at night. After three nights have passed it is said that one will dream of the days to come. When a magician had to be consulted, they frequently took a long time to complete the spell. To prevent fatigue, they would often give their clients a sprig of Mugwort as they journeyed homeward. The Magick Pantry - Musk Oil Never feel that this is too exotic for the larder. Many spells are made sweeter or more insidious by the lingering scent of musk. To bless a Talisman of Venus and ensure good health, prosperity and love, Musk can be utilized in the following ways.. Bring the talisman for blessing on a friday; come at the tenth hour of the day or at the eighth hour of the morning. Make a fire of Myrtle wood and throw Musk Oil and Lignum into the flames. Place the talisman (used for defense, protection, or allurement) in front of the vessel that bears an offering to Venus, and as the incense rises chant the following invocation: "Conjuro et confirmo Super vos angeli fortes, Sancti atque potentes, Sancti atque potentes." After this invocation a special request is made and the Talisman will be blessed. It is important not to touch the talisman until the next day. Leave it to rest, or the spell will be undone. As you can see, Musk Oil is traditionally used in incenses, bath oils, and elixers for love. This recipe simply allows the maker to invoke the talisman with a purpose. I would like to add here that in many traditions, the difference between a Talisman and an Amulet is that while the Talisman is used for protection, love ect.. the Amulet is usually agressive, and promotes agressive magickal properties. Do not confuse the two, as the "Purpose" must be clearly stated prior to the invocation of any magickal tool. The Magick Pantry - Myrtle Out of all of the primary ingredients, Myrtle is one of your best resources. If one is ever afflicted by bad dreams sent by one's enemies, it has been written that Myrtle is the perfect remedy. Here's what you do: Make a small glass of the liquid and keep it by the bedside. It is said that any negative night spell at work will be cancelled. The reason for this is unclear, however based on research and from personal experience, it is definately worth the effort. Myrtle was a particular favourite of the goddess Venus. Both the Greeks and the Romans believed that the plant contained the secrets of eternal youth and passionate love. The theory was as follows: To gain these benefits for ever, a brew of Myrtle must be drunk once every three days since the spell lasts only that long without renewal. The taste of the plant is undeniably disagreeable. It is, therefore, permissible to mix Myrtle with food. But mix it only with meat for when it is added to another substance it will taste of blood. Remember for this charm to work both lovers must eat or drink from the same container, otherwise no good effect will be felt from the Myrtle. It is said that for thinning hair, you can use Myrtle berries together with rosemary, southernwood, hazel-bark and maidenhair in equal amounts. Burn them together in a fresh fire and collect the ashes carefully. Stir this powder into white wine and use the liquid as a shampoo, rubbing and massaging into the scalp. make this a daily ritual. > Some old cultures believed that if Myrtle was eaten, it would empower anyone to spot those delving into evil magickal art forms. Be forewarned however, that most expert in these arts are also able to counter these actions. It is not something to play with to say the least. It is said that when a fresh Myrtle sprig is picked and crackles in the hand that the beloved person is always true and faithfull. Many legends refer to this herb with affection calling it the bleeding tree, since it was connected with blood and sorrow in Greek mythology. Phaedra pricked these leaves with a hairpin in her anxious frustration as she awaited Hypolytus, who was already dead. The leaves still bear the sorrowful marks. Therefore, when storing Myrtle leaves, never crush or bend them before they are dried or used. The Magick Pantry - Nettle Nettle is an agressive plant with many properties. The Nettle in England was traditionally supposed to have been planted by the Roman legions of Julius Caesar. Unused to England's miserable and freezing climate, they frequently found their limbs chilled or even numbed by the frost or sleet. As a remedy they plucked the Nettles and then scorged their legs and arms with them. After this they enjoyed the warmth of the inflammation. Legend has it that to hold the Nettle in one's hand insures one against any fears of hallucinations. Take some Nettle leaves and mix them with the common houseleek, which is a soothing agant against Nettle stings. Anoint the body with this essence and sprinkle the rest on any stretch of water where fishing has been unseccessful. Then enter the water treading with dignity and respect for the magick, and the fish will leap into your hands. If they are unacceptable or too small, just withdraw the hand and the fish will happily jump back into the water of their own accord. The Magick Pantry - Orris This is an ordinary herb to all appearances but its two magickal uses must be known. In the middle ages it was mixed with food and drink to promote love. Ground into a fine dust and blown over the clothes of a loved one, it will ensure that the lover's affection is returned. Orris is a powerful incense in many magickal arts. When making a benign incantation during the casting of a spell favourable to oneself, sweeten the breath with an Orris root. Offer a sprig to a baby, if he takes it and puts it in his mouth, his teething will be easy and his whole life is said to be a happy one. If he seems to be refusing it, encourage him, since to embrace the Orris is to learn to enjoy all that is moderate and pleasant in life. The Magick Pantry - Pennyroyal Any ordinary domestic larder will certainly contain this common flavouring even before a Magick Pantry is assembled. But grow the plant in your Magick Garden. A brew of the plant is useful as a remedy for spasms or hysteria. The oil will deter mosquitos and gnats as well. A garland of the flowers worn round the brows will relieve giddiness and a swimming head. By far the most mysterious powers of the herb possesses bear on the animal world. Take some dried Pennyroyal, grind it with a stone taken from the nest of a lapwing or a black plover, and smear the belly of any female beast with this powder. The animal will quickly produce an offspring that is deep black in colour. An ailing animal can be miraculously healed of any sickness by sniffing a pinch of Pennyroyal mixture. At first the poor beast will drop as if dead but presently it will rise again completely cured. A little more of the mixture placed among bees will ensure that they never desert the hive. Any bees or flies that have been drowned can be placed in the warm ashes of this herb and it is said that they will return to life within the hour. The Magick Pantry - Periwinkle Beware of treating this herb as mearly decorative and removing it to a vase or a display. Recently its strength was further revealed. It was claimed by some medical opinion that the Periwinkle or Vince Rosea, was an effective cure for diabetes. More interesting to most of us is the power the plant has to reconcile man and wife and revive their passions. Note: This may not be appropriate if you are weak stomached. To effect this atonement, beat the Periwinkle into a powder and mix it with earthworms and the herb named Houseleek. Unfortunately, no further information was available as to the specific way this balm should be applied, except to say that it should be given with meat to the unhappy couple. Furthermore, put this herb in the mouth of a young bull and the animal will run amok directly at your enemy. For those of you that like special effects at your circles, and enjoy outside fires within them, sprinkle some Periwinkle powder into the fire and the flames will turn bright blue. The Magick Pantry - Peony It is said that this herb cured the gods injured in the Trojan wars. From time immemorial, the seeds have been dried and worn in ticht neckband by men and women as a sure protection against those that work in the black arts. In Christian philosophy, it was Lucifer himself that was credited with the creation of the Peony, but its dedication has long since been transferred to the sun. Therefore, work spells with it only on the seventh day, and then only after sunrise. It contains a remarkable cure for a swimming head or for those sensations of unreality that may afflict on at any time. Take the root and the seed of one and the same Peony flower. Ensure that the weight of both is equal. Pound them together into as much powder as will balance a nutmeg on the scales. Now grind the netmeg, shake the powder and grind it again. Mix together both the powders and sprinkle fine sugar into them. Put a pinch under the toungue every morning for a month. This will steady and calm any being. In Ireland it is widely used and is helpful to women suffering after childbirth. The Magick Pantry - The Rose (General) The Rose is beautiful both in appearance and in scent. Yes, it is a flower but it's also considered to be a very powerfull herb. The magickal effects of the Rose can be devastating. Take a center from the whole flower or just one dried petal. A mustard seed and a weasel's foot are also needed. Hang all these together in a hempen bag on a branch of ANY tree; that tree will never again bear fruit. A dried Rose, entwined in a fisherman's net, will charm into it a full shoal of fish. To create an optical illusion, if illusion it be, take some of the origional Rose and some mustard powder and mix it together with purest Olive oil and a little Brimstone . Sprinkle this potion over the roof and the outside walls of the chosen house. When the sun shines this house will appear to be on fire. The Magick Pantry - Rosemary It is traditional it is said to wear Rosemary at weddings. This was always done in ancient times and the herb was a much a symbol of marriage as was the colour white. The power of Rosemary is to remind and to bind. For many years occultists have appreciated Rosemary as a stong agent. One spell, enabling a virgin to see her future husband, had to be carried out on the eve of St. Mary Magdalene. The herb was dipped into a mixture of wine vinegar and water in a glass dish, and the juice was then used to anoint the virgin's breasts. She had to be accompanied by two of her closest friends under the age of twenty-one, who would then conduct her back to her bedroom after the ritual, all without speaking a word. The virgin would then inevitably dream of her future husband. An alternative to the anointing was for the three girls to take three sips of the liquid. They then fastened a sprig of Rosemary to their bosoms and retired confidently to bed. All three would that night dream of their future husbands and learn the secrets of their lives thereafter. Rosemary can also be used to retain or gain power over a man. To do this, aquire some water or wine already touched by the man himself. Place the Rosemary in four boxes, set out at the four polls of the compass, (Northe, South, East, and West) which must be placed in the center of the room. Pour a little water or wine into each of the boxes and say the following: (Again, a Latin translation would be nice) "Tibi impero ut quaedam viluero, et velim adimpleas et facias" When two days have elapsed take out the Rosemary, swathe it in silk and bury it in the earth, no less than six inches deep. Let it lie there for three days and then remove the bundle one hour after sunset. Burn the herb, collect and powder the ashes. When this powder is discreetly placed into the food or drink of the chosen man, he will return your love. Rosemary is a long slender leaf tapered on the ends. It smells sweet, and when crushed it is quite palatable. It is also said that one can make a Rosemary infusion, to rid the household pet of fleas. The Magick Pantry - Rue Many cultures have adorned this herb for centuries. It is said that Rue is helpful in rescinding unwanted magickal workings, and to reverse decisions. It is the herb of repentance, the herb of grace. Roman Catholics sprinkle the petals of Rue on the surface of their holy water. During a symbolic ceremony to guard against disease, it is also strewn in some courts of law. Its uses in removing negative entities are astounding. This includes the art of excorsism, in some faiths. Here was an instruction from a priest recorded in 1664 that I though was interesting regarding excorsism. His origin was never mentioned... To remove the influence of someone's Familiar First they are to try the entity by dousing with prepaired holy water, or water blessed by the faith. To this would include the addition of incense, sulphur, and rue which from thence, as we suppose can, came to be called herb of grace, along with St. John's wort which therefore they call the evil out, yet they may do good to the patient. Other uses would be to make a tea and some incense from Rue. Drink the tea and burn the incense simultaneously. Although Rue is not an aphrodisiac, it has been known to attract a desireable lover, clear the mind, and enable one to solve many problems. The Magick Pantry - Sage Many traditions utilize this powerful herb in many ways. Of these, smudging, incenses, as well as cooking are among the most popular. Again, this herb must be grown fresh. Never use the remnants of your cooking supply for magickal workings. Red Sage is an exotic plant in spite of its conventional uses. The herb may be used for throat gargles and mouthwashes, but it also has many magickal properties. This magickal working is not for those that are squimish. (I found it interesting, and am in hopes that others will as well.) Dry, purify and select the best pieces of the plant and put them in a small pile of cow dung on a glass dish. If discretion and respect are used, soon a worm will issue forth or perhaps a bird with black tail feathers. The blood of the creature that wriggles or hops out of the glass vessel is powerful and dangerous. Place a drop of it on the brest of anyone to be disposed of. The person will loose his/her wits and feel nothing for fifteen days or more. Once the magick creature is killed for its blood, burn the carcass and collect the ashes. Scatter them on a fresh fire. A magnificent rainbow will appear in the sky and a horrible thunderstorm will follow. If a woman wishes to dominate her home she must grow plenty of sage in her garden. The Magick Pantry - Snakeweed No herb is stranger in its powers than Snakeweed. It is also called Bistort and under this name it was used by doctors as a gargle and as a treatment for haemorrhages. But regard it as Snakeweed and treat it accordingly. One legend says... Bury a sprig of it in the ground with a leaf of Clover. Red and Green snakes will spring out from this patch of earth. Catch and kill them and dry their skins. Make a powder out of them and scoop a little of hte substance onto a burning lamp in a darkened room. Again red and green snakes, wreathing and coiling in multitudes, will sprout from the light. Place the same powder under the sleeping head of any man troubled by recurring dreams and he will never again dream of himself. The Magick Pantry - Spikenard This plant is more common in North America rather than Europe, but international legend has much to say about its powers. It is particularly well known in the German occult world. But the herb originally grew in India and it has a deep history and significance among the Hindus. In the Christian faith for example, the Bible claims that Jesus Christ was anointed with ointment distilled from Spikenard. It is a most useful herb to keep a lover faithful. Take a sprig of the herb and try to make the lover touch it with his right hand. Better still, make him/her wear it for a short time against his/her heart. Retrieve the Spikenard and enclose it in a leather pouch. Tie the bag very securely and bury it in the ground. The best place to do this is within the circle of stones in the Magick Garden. As long as the bag remains in the earth, the lover will be true. Check the bag twice a month, for on those occasions a new sprig of Spikenard must be added to continue the spell. The Magick Pantry - Suntull This root can be acquired under the name of skunk cabbage or meadow cabbage. It has both the appearance and the reputation of being a nasty and anti-human herb. Medically, its only use seems to be for producing saliva and helping to calm fevers. But to the magician, its powers are more precise and more important. Take a Suntull leaf which must have been gathered on a Sunday in August, on hour after sunrise. Fold a single yellow dandelion flower within the leaf. Around this a bayleaf must be wrapped. Carry this talisman in your pocket to guard against those who wish to do you harm. Every person henceforth will become a friend and justice will be obtained in any court of law. The Magick Pantry - Tonka Beans These beans are native to Guiana so some hardship may be experienced in acquiring them. But their uses are various so it is worth wile to persevere. They are important in the making of incense on account of their strong and lasting smell. To consume them is a perilous venture, since their power is to paralyse the heart. However, when the bean is used with caution, its power is good. Take one or three of the beans and put them in a locket or pouch. To give the cham grace and greatly added power, attach a cross (made of wood, metal or other substances, just as long as it's not a crucifix) Aquarian Star, or a Pentagram/Pentacle to the chain on the locket. To make a more powerful talisman or an Amulet pierce the bean at the sharp end and thread it with a thin gold wire. Onto this wire tie a golden cross, or any of the above suggestions. Try to use a wishing stone or tool as this will bring about greater power. Charge this amulet or talisman with a purpose, and release the energy into the universe. It is said that by carrying this talisman, you will be protected against even the greatest harm. Likewise, if employing an amulet the same is true only in the agressive nature. The Magick Pantry - Vervain Many traditions utilize this powerful herb in many ways. Here are some of the more interesting possiblities... It is certainly a strong drug and widely used as a tranquilizer. Traditionally, a weak Vervain water creates merriment among the guests at a formal gathering. An old custom was to steep Vervain in hot water, strain off the herb itself and diluting the solution further, to use the liquid as a detergent or a spray around the home. It was said that all negativity would be kept at bay by its use. The water was commonly referred to as Juno's brew. The dry herb has often been carried as a charm against similar forces. To cure fainting fits, gather the herb when the sun is in Aries. Mix the dried substance with a pinch of Peony or a single Peony pod which is one year old. The brew will remedy the sickness. If the herb is buried in a garden, after eight weeks worms will be engendered. These worms are fatal to the touch. A sprig of the plant, placed in a dovecot, will keep the doves happy and stop them from flying away. If a man keeps two mistresses, a pinch of this powder will set the two women at each other's throat. Vervain is not the best smelling herb out there, especially if you are going to steep it. It is said that Vervain is so powerful that if it were able to make contact with the sun that it would turn blue, if it were to ever be taken there. The Magick Pantry - Whale Oil This is an important ingredient in the Magick Pantry. No this isn't the oil from the whale, although in old times, it was. Today it is mostly Crocodile oil or the distillation of some organ from a reptile that is used. Certain spells that you may come across will reference this type of oil. These substances are getting harder and harder to purchase. Hardly a single delicatessen still stock reptile produce. Here are some uses for Whale Oil.. To end the irritating croaking of frogs in the Magick Garden or to drive away howling cats (as we have all heard from time to time) you can cast the following spell: Melt some wax that has been bleached by Sunlight and add a little Whale Oil from an earthenware jar. Put the mixture into a clay vessel and lower into it a sturdy wick. Light the magick lamp and put it on the edge of the pond or on a doorstep. No frog will croak again and no cat will dare to howl at night, when this has been achieved. The Magick Pantry - Wild Teasel This is a mysterious and important herb to keep in the Magick Pantry. It comes third in the magick order of plants, but it is rarely found in a garden. It's power is unquestionable... the proof is found in tis capacity of produce pregancy in animals. The traditional spell demands Mandrake juice. Mix this fertile essence with the prepared liquid of the Wild Teasel. Give the mixture to a bird or a beast and it will presently produce healthy young of its own kind. But do not give thanks to the Mandrake alone. Fear the Teasel for it can create discord. The secret of this reprehensible power is a dangerous one and must be carefully handled. A tooth recently extracted from the gum is needed. Drop the tooth into meat or drink prepared with Teasek, and quarrels and fights will begin. Only the calming Valerian can soothe the tumult. The Magick Pantry - Wormwood Myths and legends surround this herb as well. It was said that as the serpend writhered its way in flight from this Garden of Eden, this plant sprang up in its trail. Its power is great, not only agains halitosis and worms, but also against mouse bites and attacks by jellyfish, Anomoes, and particularly the Portuqese Man-of-War's. This herb dedicated to Artemis, it has long been employed in ceremonials to raise the dead, Necromancy.. if you will. It has also been used to conspire with the lower negative entities of the underworld by many magicians. In such rituals Wormwood must be burned on glowing charcoal and the incense will work the spell. Sometimes the powdered herb is placed in a folded cone of black paper and the paper is lighted at the tip. But this must be performed only at the dead of night. As the smoke rises, cry out, invoke the name or names of the desired departed, or entieies and ask them to make their presence known. Provided that the necessary apparatus can be constructed, the spell will work better if the fuming incense is swung from side to sid on a pendulum. To cure the plaque magicians used to mix Wormwood with rue, plunged into a pint of ale with a slice of lemon and left overnight. In the morning the brew was drunk in one draught without other food or drink. The patient sually rallied. The Magick Pantry - Conclusion As you can see, there were many items necessary in order to stock your larder. Please keep in mind that these were suggested items. Each magician has their own personal collection, some which may not have been included here. This was provided to give you a guide or to start your pantry. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=