Tansy

Tansy

by Wanderer MoonChild

🌱 Botanical Basics

1. Common Name(s): Tansy
2. Folk Name(s): Bitter Buttons, Ginger Plant, Golden Buttons, Mugwort (confused with), Parsley Fern, Buttons, Bitterwort
3. Scientific/Latin Name: Tanacetum vulgare
4. Family: Asteraceae (Daisy family)
5. Plant Type: Hardy perennial herb
6. Botanical Description: Upright clumping herb 2–4 feet tall with feathery, fern-like, aromatic leaves; flat-topped clusters of small, button-like yellow flowers with no petals; strong, bitter scent.
7. Growing Zones/Climate: USDA zones 4–8; hardy in temperate climates.
8. Best Zones for Growth: Thrives in cooler, northern temperate zones.
9. Habitat & Range: Native to Europe and Asia; naturalized in North America. Found along roadsides, meadows, and riverbanks.

🌿 Cultivation & Harvest

1. Soil & Sun Requirements: Prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil; thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade.
2. Propagation: By division of root clumps in spring or autumn; also by seed but spreads aggressively and can become invasive.
3. Companion Planting: Repels pests such as ants, flies, moths, and beetles; often planted near roses, fruit trees, and vegetable gardens as a natural insect deterrent.
4. Harvesting Guidelines:
   
5. Leaves & Flowers – Harvest midsummer to early autumn when flowers are vibrant.
6. Cut aerial parts before seed heads form.
   
7. Drying/Preservation: Hang in bunches or dry flat in a ventilated space. Store in airtight containers away from light.

🌸 Traditional & Historical Use

1. Cultural Significance: Used since ancient Greece and medieval Europe for preserving corpses, flavoring food, and as a strewing herb to ward off pests. Associated with Easter feasting in Britain and with funeral rites.
2. Traditional Medicine: Used historically as an anti-parasitic (notably against intestinal worms), digestive bitter, and menstrual stimulant.
3. Symbolism: Immortality (for its preservative use), protection, endurance.

🌼 Medicinal & Practical Properties

1. Active Constituents: Thujone (toxic in high amounts), camphor, borneol, tannins, flavonoids, volatile oils.
2. Medicinal Uses (historical/traditional):
   
3. Vermifuge (worm expelling)
4. Digestive aid and bitter tonic
5. Menstrual regulation (emmenagogue)
6. Externally for bruises, sprains, scabies, lice
   
7. Preparation Methods:
   
8. Infusions and tinctures (low doses, historically used)
9. Poultices or compresses externally
10. Essential oil (extremely potent; external use only and diluted)
    
11. Dosage & Guidelines:
    
12. Internal use is strongly cautioned—modern herbalists rarely recommend due to toxicity of thujone. Historically, very small amounts (few drops tincture or teaspoon of dried herb) were used.
    
13. Safety/Precautions:
    
14. Toxic if taken in excess—may cause convulsions, liver damage, and even death.
15. Avoid in pregnancy, lactation, or with seizure disorders.
16. Not for regular internal use in modern herbal practice.

🌙 Magical & Spiritual Properties

1. Elemental Association: Venus/Water (sometimes linked to Mars for protective energy)
2. Planetary/Deity Correspondence: Venus, Hecate, associated with spirits of the dead due to funerary use.
3. Magical Correspondences: Protection, longevity, spirit communication, warding off illness and evil.
4. Ritual Use: Burned as incense for purification; carried in sachets for protection; used in funerary rites and ancestor work.
5. Symbolism in Divination/Dreams: May represent resilience, endurance, or warnings of excess/toxicity.

🌍 Ecological & Culinary Uses

1. Pollinator Value: Flowers attract bees, hoverflies, and beneficial insects.
2. Wildlife Uses: Bitter oils deter most grazing animals, though insects may use as host plant.
3. Culinary Uses: Historically used to flavor puddings, cakes, and omelets (Easter traditions), but no longer recommended due to toxicity.
4. Household/Practical Uses:
   
5. Used as a strewing herb to deter insects in households.
6. Placed in coffins for preservation.
7. Infused in vinegar for cleaning or pest control.

⚡ Fast Facts

1. Quick Uses: Protection herb, insect repellent, ancestor ritual herb.
2. Notable Traits: Strongly aromatic, insect-repelling, preservative qualities.
3. Special Notes: Once highly valued in Europe but now considered invasive in parts of North America. Internal medicinal use is discouraged today.

📖 Supporting Notes

1. Grieve, M. A Modern Herbal.
2. Chevallier, Andrew. Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine.
3. Foster, Steven & Duke, James. Peterson Field Guide to Medicinal Plants.

Dandelion

Dandelion

by Wanderer MoonChild

🌱 Botanical Basics

1. Common Name(s): Dandelion
2. Folk Name(s): Lion’s Tooth, Blowball, Priest’s Crown, Puffball, Swine’s Snout, Piss-a-bed (from its diuretic action), Fairy Clock
3. Scientific/Latin Name: Taraxacum officinale
4. Family: Asteraceae (Daisy family)
5. Plant Type: Perennial herbaceous plant
6. Botanical Description: Distinctive basal rosette of deeply toothed leaves; hollow stems with milky latex; bright yellow composite flowers; spherical seed heads (“clocks”) dispersing by wind. Taproot is thick, deep, and sturdy.
7. Growing Zones/Climate: Hardy in USDA zones 3–9; tolerates wide range of conditions.
8. Best Zones for Growth: Temperate regions worldwide.
9. Habitat & Range: Native to Europe and Asia; now naturalized and common across North America, South America, Africa, Australia, and beyond. Found in fields, lawns, roadsides, disturbed soils.

🌿 Cultivation & Harvest

1. Soil & Sun Requirements: Prefers well-drained soil, neutral to slightly alkaline; full sun for best flowering, though tolerates partial shade.
2. Propagation: By seed (wind-dispersed); also spreads by taproot. Self-seeds easily.
3. Companion Planting: Beneficial “dynamic accumulator,” drawing up nutrients (especially calcium, iron, potassium) from deep soil. Good near fruit trees and vegetables needing mineral support.
4. Harvesting Guidelines:
   
5. Leaves – Best in early spring before flowering (less bitter).
6. Roots – Harvest in autumn (highest concentration of inulin) or early spring.
7. Flowers – Gather fresh for wine, fritters, or infused oils.
   
8. Drying/Preservation: Air-dry leaves and roots in well-ventilated space; roots may be roasted for tea/coffee substitute. Flowers best used fresh or infused in oil.

🌸 Traditional & Historical Use

1. Cultural Significance: Used across Europe, Asia, and Native American traditions for medicine, food, and ritual. A symbol of resilience, survival, and hope.
2. Traditional Medicine: Ancient Greeks, Chinese, and Indigenous healers used dandelion for digestion, liver support, urinary health, and blood purification.
3. Symbolism: Persistence, transformation, wishes, and childlike joy (blowing seed heads).

🌼 Medicinal & Practical Properties

1. Active Constituents: Bitter glycosides (taraxacin), inulin, sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, triterpenes, phenolic acids, potassium, vitamins A, C, K, minerals (iron, calcium, magnesium).
2. Medicinal Uses:
   
3. Diuretic (supports urinary tract and kidneys)
4. Digestive stimulant (bitter tonic)
5. Liver cleanser (supports bile flow)
6. Mild anti-inflammatory and antioxidant
7. Root for blood sugar support and gut health
   
8. Preparation Methods:
   
9. Teas & infusions (leaf or root)
10. Tinctures (alcohol or glycerin)
11. Decoctions (root)
12. Poultices/Compresses (fresh leaves for skin)
13. Roasted roots (coffee substitute)
    
14. Dosage & Guidelines:
    
15. Tea: 1–2 tsp dried root/leaf per cup, 2–3x daily
16. Tincture: 30–40 drops, 2–3x daily (standard adult)
    
17. Safety/Precautions:
    
18. Generally safe, but avoid if allergic to Asteraceae family.
19. Use caution with diuretics, lithium, or blood-sugar–lowering medications.
    

🌙 Magical & Spiritual Properties

1. Elemental Association: Air (seeds on the wind) & Earth (deep roots)
2. Planetary/Deity Correspondence: Jupiter (expansion, abundance); linked to solar deities and Hecate (herbal healing).
3. Magical Correspondences: Divination, wishes, spirit communication, perseverance, prosperity.
4. Ritual Use: Blowing seeds to carry wishes to the spirits; flowers in solar workings; roots in grounding talismans.
5. Symbolism in Divination/Dreams: Seeing dandelion in dreams may signal resilience, hope, or the need to let go and trust the universe.

🌍 Ecological & Culinary Uses

1. Pollinator Value: Early nectar and pollen source for bees, butterflies, and beetles.
2. Wildlife Uses: Leaves browsed by rabbits and deer; seeds eaten by birds.
3. Culinary Uses:
   
4. Young leaves in salads or cooked as greens.
5. Roots roasted for coffee substitute.
6. Flowers for wine, fritters, or syrups.
   
7. Household/Practical Uses: Root dye (reddish-brown); latex once explored as natural rubber source.

⚡ Fast Facts

1. Quick Uses: Diuretic, digestive aid, detox tonic, edible wild food.
2. Notable Traits: One of the most resilient plants; survives mowing, drought, and disturbed soils.
3. Special Notes: Considered a “weed” yet is among the most useful plants for food, medicine, and spirit.

📖 Supporting Notes

1. Herbal references:
   
2. Ody, Penelope. The Complete Medicinal Herbal.
3. Chevallier, Andrew. Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine.
4. Grieve, M. A Modern Herbal.
5. 
   
6. Research studies on dandelion’s medicinal effects (e.g., anticancer and liver support):
   
7. Google Scholar – Dandelion Research

🌼 Dandelion Root & Cancer: Ancient Remedy Meets Modern Science

Most of us know dandelions as stubborn weeds that pop up in gardens and sidewalks. But beyond their bright yellow flowers, dandelions have a long history of use in traditional medicine—for digestion, detox, and general wellness. Now, modern research is taking a closer look at this humble plant, and the findings are surprising.

In a 2016 study published in Oncotarget, researchers investigated how dandelion root extract affects colorectal cancer cells. The results were promising.

🔬 What the Study Found

Scientists treated colorectal cancer cells with aqueous dandelion root extract (a water-based preparation, similar to a strong tea).

✨ The results showed:

1. Cancer cells self-destructed through a process called apoptosis (programmed cell death).
2. The extract also triggered autophagy—a process where cells break down and recycle their own components.
3. Healthy colon cells were not harmed, showing selectivity.

When tested in mice with colorectal cancer, the extract also slowed tumor growth without noticeable toxicity.

🌱 Why This Matters

Current cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, can be effective but often damage healthy cells along with cancerous ones, leading to difficult side effects. A therapy that can target cancer cells while sparing healthy ones is an important goal in cancer research.

While these results are encouraging, it’s important to note: this research is still in the early stages. The study was done on cells in the lab and in mice—not yet in human clinical trials. That means we don’t know how effective or safe dandelion root extract would be as a treatment in people.

🌼 A Note of Care

Dandelion has been used safely in many traditional remedies, and research like this highlights its potential for future therapies. But it’s not a proven cancer treatment at this time. Anyone facing cancer should always rely on guidance from their healthcare team.

📖 References

1. Ovadje, P., Ammar, S., Guerrero, J. A., Arnason, J. T., & Pandey, S. (2016). Dandelion root extract affects colorectal cancer proliferation and survival through the activation of multiple death signalling pathways. Oncotarget, 7(45), 73080.
   
2. 👉 Read on Google Scholar
3. Ovadje, P., Roma, A., Steckle, M., & Pandey, S. (2012). Dandelion root extract induces apoptosis in human leukemia cells without toxicity to healthy cells. PLoS One, 7(2), e30604.
   
4. 👉 Read on PubMed
5. Sigstedt, S. C., Hooten, C. J., Callewaert, M. C., Jenkins, A. R., Romero, A. E., Pullin, M. J., … & Walter, T. H. (2008). Evaluation of aqueous extracts of Taraxacum officinale on growth and invasion of breast and prostate cancer cells. International Journal of Oncology, 32(5), 1085–1090.
   
6. 👉 Read on PubMed
7. Chatterjee, S. J., Ovadje, P., Mousa, M., Hamm, C., & Pandey, S. (2011). The efficacy of dandelion root extract in inducing apoptosis in drug-resistant human melanoma cells. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2011, 129045.
   
8. 👉 Read on PubMed

WorkCited:

https://classes.witchschool.com/classes/BSCH102/L1/p01.asp

https://www.homeopathycenter.org/remedy/taraxacum

https://joybileefarm.com/harvesting-dandelion-root-tea/

Photo by Ela Haney from Pexels

Cinnamon by Wanderer MoonChild

Cinnamon

by Wanderer MoonChild

🌱 Botanical Basics

1. Common Name(s): Cinnamon
2. Folk Name(s): Sweet Wood, Dalchini (India), Ceylon Cinnamon, Cassia
3. Scientific/Latin Name: Cinnamomum verum (Ceylon or “true” cinnamon), Cinnamomum cassia (Chinese cassia, often sold as cinnamon)
4. Family: Lauraceae (Laurel family)
5. Plant Type: Evergreen tree
6. Botanical Description: A small to medium-sized tropical tree, 30–50 ft tall, with glossy, oval, leathery leaves, clusters of small yellow-white flowers, and dark purple berries. The spice comes from the dried inner bark, rolled into quills or powdered.
7. Growing Zones/Climate: USDA Zones 10–12; thrives in warm, tropical, humid climates.
8. Best Zones for Growth: South Asia, Southeast Asia, tropical regions such as Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, and Indonesia.
9. Habitat & Range: Native to Sri Lanka and southern India; widely cultivated in China, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Madagascar.

🌿 Cultivation & Harvest

1. Soil & Sun Requirements: Prefers rich, moist, well-drained soils with partial shade to full sun.
2. Propagation: Commonly by seeds, stem cuttings, or air layering.
3. Companion Planting: Pairs well with other tropical crops such as clove, nutmeg, and cardamom.
4. Harvesting Guidelines: Harvested from young stems by cutting and peeling bark; best done during rainy season when bark separates easily. Bark curls naturally as it dries into quills.
5. Drying/Preservation: Sun-dried quills stored whole or powdered; best kept in airtight containers to preserve volatile oils.
   

🌸 Traditional & Historical Use

1. Cultural Significance: Valued since ancient times as a sacred, luxurious spice. In Egypt it was used in embalming and incense; in Rome it was burned in temples; medieval Europe prized it for food and medicine.
2. Traditional Medicine: In Ayurveda, used for warming the body, improving digestion, circulation, and respiratory health. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, applied to dispel cold, improve yang energy, and support heart and spleen.
3. Symbolism: Associated with wealth, status, warmth, and sacred fire. A symbol of divine offerings and prosperity.

🌼 Medicinal & Practical Properties

1. Active Constituents: Cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, cinnamic acid, tannins, coumarin (higher in cassia), essential oils.
2. Medicinal Uses:
   
3. Supports digestion (relieves gas, bloating, diarrhea)
4. Improves circulation and warms the body
5. Antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties
6. May help regulate blood sugar levels
   
7. Preparation Methods: Teas, decoctions, tinctures, powdered spice, essential oil, poultices.
8. Dosage & Guidelines:
   
9. Tea: 1 stick or 1 tsp powder simmered in water, once or twice daily.
10. Tincture: 10–20 drops in water, up to 3 times daily.
11. Culinary: Safe in moderate use.
    
12. Safety/Precautions: Cassia contains coumarin, which in high doses can cause liver damage. Avoid large medicinal doses during pregnancy or when on blood-thinning medication. Essential oil is highly concentrated and must be diluted.

🌙 Magical & Spiritual Properties

1. Elemental Association: Fire
2. Planetary/Deity Correspondence: Sun, sometimes Venus; associated with solar deities and gods of love, abundance, and warmth.
3. Magical Correspondences: Prosperity, attraction, success, love, passion, purification, spiritual energy, protection.
4. Ritual Use: Burned as incense to raise energy; sprinkled in charms and mojo bags for money and success; infused in oils for anointing; used in love and passion spells.
5. Symbolism in Divination/Dreams: Dreaming of cinnamon may symbolize upcoming prosperity, passion entering one’s life, or a “warming” of relationships and fortune.

🌍 Ecological & Culinary Uses

1. Pollinator Value: Flowers provide nectar for bees and some tropical pollinators.
2. Wildlife Uses: Fruits eaten by birds; trees provide shade and shelter in tropical agroforestry systems.
3. Culinary Uses: Widely used in baked goods, teas, mulled wine, curries, stews, desserts, and savory spice blends worldwide. Essential to ritual feasts and seasonal foods.
4. Household/Practical Uses: Natural preservative; infused in simmer pots for fragrance; used in sachets to repel moths and insects; added to natural cleaners for antimicrobial effect.

⚡ Fast Facts

1. Quick Uses: Sprinkle in wallet for prosperity; burn in incense to raise spiritual energy; sip as tea for digestive ease and warmth.
2. Notable Traits: One of the world’s oldest and most valuable traded spices; its distinct warm, sweet scent is universally recognized.
3. Special Notes: True cinnamon (C. verum) is lighter, sweeter, and rarer; cassia (C. cassia) is stronger, spicier, and most commonly found in markets.

📖 Supporting Notes

1. References:
   
2. Grieve, Maud. A Modern Herbal
3. Chevallier, Andrew. Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine
4. Duke, James A. Handbook of Medicinal Herbs
5. Cunningham, Scott. Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs
6. American Botanical Council; USDA Plants Database

Lavendar

Lavender

by Wanderer MoonChild

🌱 Botanical Basics

1. Common Name(s): Lavender
2. Folk Name(s): Elf Leaf, Nard, Spikenard, Spike, Nardus, Lavender Blue
3. Scientific/Latin Name: Lavandula angustifolia (syn. Lavandula officinalis)
4. Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)
5. Plant Type: Perennial evergreen shrub
6. Botanical Description: Lavender is a small aromatic shrub with silvery-gray, narrow leaves and tall spikes of violet to purple flowers. The plant forms compact mounds 1–3 feet high, with highly fragrant foliage and blossoms rich in essential oils.
7. Growing Zones/Climate: USDA Zones 5–9, depending on variety. Prefers temperate to Mediterranean climates.
8. Best Zones for Growth: Does best in dry, sunny climates with mild winters and warm summers.
9. Habitat & Range: Native to the Mediterranean region, but cultivated widely across Europe, North America, and parts of Asia for ornamental, culinary, and medicinal purposes.

🌿 Cultivation & Harvest

1. Soil & Sun Requirements: Thrives in sandy, well-drained soil with low to moderate fertility. Requires full sun (6–8 hours daily). Does poorly in heavy clay or waterlogged soils.
2. Propagation: Commonly propagated by cuttings for true-to-type plants; can also be grown from seed, though germination may be slow. Division and layering are other options.
3. Companion Planting: Works well alongside herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and sage; repels moths, fleas, and mosquitoes; attracts pollinators. Often planted with vegetables to deter pests.
4. Harvesting Guidelines: Harvest flower spikes when about half the buds are open for best fragrance and oil content. Cut in the morning after dew has dried.
5. Drying/Preservation: Hang bundles upside down in a dry, dark, well-ventilated space. Flowers may also be stripped and stored in airtight containers for use in teas, sachets, or potpourri.
   

🌸 Traditional & Historical Use

1. Cultural Significance: Used in Ancient Egypt in mummification, by Romans in baths and as perfume, and in medieval Europe to ward off illness and evil spirits. Symbol of cleanliness, purity, and devotion.
2. Traditional Medicine: Historically employed for nervous conditions, insomnia, headaches, digestive complaints, and antiseptic wound care. Lavender water and oils were staples in early apothecaries.
3. Symbolism: Represents calm, healing, purity, and devotion. Associated with love and remembrance.

🌼 Medicinal & Practical Properties

1. Active Constituents: Essential oils (linalool, linalyl acetate, cineole, camphor), tannins, coumarins, flavonoids.
2. Medicinal Uses: Calms anxiety, eases stress, supports sleep, relieves headaches, reduces inflammation, mild antiseptic, digestive aid, and helps heal minor cuts or burns.
3. Preparation Methods: Infused oils, teas, tinctures, bath sachets, inhalation of essential oils, topical salves, hydrosols.
4. Dosage & Guidelines:
   
5. Tea: 1–2 tsp dried flowers per cup boiling water, steep 10 minutes.
6. Essential oil: Use diluted; 2–4 drops in carrier oil or bath water.
7. Tincture: 1–2 ml up to 3x daily.
8. 
   
9. Safety/Precautions: Generally safe; avoid internal use of essential oil. May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Use caution during pregnancy and with small children.

🌙 Magical & Spiritual Properties

1. Elemental Association: Air & Water
2. Planetary/Deity Correspondence: Mercury (communication, clarity), also associated with Venus (love, beauty); deities such as Hecate, Aphrodite, and Astarte.
3. Magical Correspondences: Purification, love, peace, sleep, clarity of mind, protection, and psychic awareness.
4. Ritual Use: Burned as incense for cleansing; added to dream pillows; worn or carried for attraction and peace; infused in ritual baths.
5. Symbolism in Divination/Dreams: Often symbolizes serenity, spiritual clarity, and release of emotional burdens. Dreaming of lavender can indicate healing or the resolution of conflicts.

🌍 Ecological & Culinary Uses

1. Pollinator Value: Highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators.
2. Wildlife Uses: Provides nectar for pollinators; dried stalks can be used in crafts or as fire starters. Repels flies and moths.
3. Culinary Uses: Flowers used to flavor baked goods, syrups, honey, teas, and liqueurs; pairs well with lemon, chocolate, and herbs in savory dishes. Best used sparingly due to strong flavor.

Work Sited:

https://classes.witchschool.com/classes/BSCH101/L6/p02.asp

https://www.almanac.com/plant/lavender

Making Medicinal Balms and Salves by Wanderer MoonChild

Making salves and balms is one of my favorite things about getting to work with medicinal plants. Herbal salves are a great way for your skin ( the largest organ on you body) to get the oppertunity to obsorb all of those good medicinal properties from you herbal infused oil with the benefits of the wax to help to make a barrier over the area helping to keep the extra moisture in and extras out.

Once you've created your herbal oil, you're just a few simple steps away from your finished salve! See our basic salve recipe below, and follow along with herbal educator and author Maria Noël Groves for a comprehensive video how-to demonstration! Makes 5 ounces.

Ingredients 1 oz. beeswax (use carnauba wax for a vegan salve) 4 oz. herbal infused oil(s) of your choice (choose one or a combination) 10-20 drops essential oil of choice (optional)

Directions Wrap beeswax bar in an old towel. On a sturdy surface, use a hammer to break bar up into small chunks.

Place beeswax in a double boiler and gently warm over low heat until the beeswax melts. Add herbal oils and stir over low heat until well-mixed. Remove from heat and add the essential oil(s). Quickly pour warm mixture into prepared tins, glass jars, or lip balm tubes and allow to cool completely.

Store in a cool location for 1 to 3 years.

Pro tip: The consistency of salves can easily be adjusted depending on your preferences. Use less beeswax for a softer salve and more beeswax if you’d like a firmer salve. You can test the consistency by placing a spoon in the freezer before making your salve. When the beeswax melts, pour a little salve onto one of the cold spoons and place it back into the freezer for 1 to 2 minutes. This will simulate what the final consistency will be like. Once cooled, you can make adjustments by adding more oil (for a softer salve) or more beeswax (for a firmer salve).

Here is a basic salve recipe so you can try making your own too:

Basic Herbal Salve Recipe

Ingredients

1. 1 cup carrier oil (olive, hemp, jojoba, almond, or a blend)
2. 1 oz (about 2 Tbsp) beeswax (pastilles or grated)
3. 1–2 Tbsp dried herbs (e.g., calendula, lavender, plantain, comfrey — optional if you want it infused)
4. 10–20 drops essential oil (optional, for fragrance or added properties)
   

Instructions

1. Make an infused oil (optional but recommended):
   
2. Place your dried herbs in a clean glass jar.
3. Cover with your carrier oil, making sure herbs are fully submerged.
4. Let sit in a warm, sunny spot for 2–4 weeks, shaking daily.
5. Strain out the herbs before using.
   
6. (Shortcut: gently warm herbs in oil on low heat in a double boiler for 2–3 hours, then strain.)
   
7. Prepare the salve base:
   
8. In a double boiler, combine 1 cup of your herbal oil with 1 oz beeswax.
9. Heat gently until beeswax melts completely, stirring to blend.
   
10. Customize:
    
11. Remove from heat.
12. Add essential oils if desired. Stir well.
    
13. Pour into containers:
    
14. Immediately pour into clean tins or jars while still liquid.
15. Let cool and solidify before sealing.

🌼 Tips

1. If you want a softer salve, use less beeswax (¾ oz per cup oil).
2. For a firmer balm, use more beeswax (up to 1.5 oz per cup oil).
3. Store in a cool, dark place — it should last 6–12 months.

Remember to label and date your container! Even if you think you’ll recall what’s inside, you won’t—trust me. Your salve should stay good anywhere from 6 months up to 2 years, depending on the ingredients used and how it’s stored.

WorkCited:

https://www.udemy.com/herbalism-medicine-making/learn/lecture/5935830#overview

https://blog.mountainroseherbs.com/diy-herbal-salves

https://www.healthline.com/health/diy-herbal-salves

https://www.frontiercoop.com/community/how-to/how-to-make-herbal-salves

Gladstar, Rosemary. Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health. Storey Publishing, 2008.

McIntyre, Anne. The Complete Herbal Tutor: The Definitive Guide to the Principles and Practices of Herbal Medicine. Watkins Publishing, 2019.

Tilgner, Sharol. Herbal Medicine: From the Heart of the Earth. Wise Acres Press, 2009.

Chevallier, Andrew. Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. DK Publishing, 2016.

Green, James. The Herbal Medicine-Maker’s Handbook: A Home Manual. Crossing Press, 2000.

Making Infused Oils

Making herbal infused Oils is fun and easy to do. Infused oil is made when you start with a good quality base oil and then infuse the herbs into the oil and place is over gentle heat to extract the medicinal properties of the herbs. Infused oils are not to be confused with essential oils which are steamed distilled.

here is a list off all of the supplies that you will need:

3.5 oz herbs
Oil jar
cheese cloth

Place herbs in a clean, dry quart jar. Leave at least 1 to 3 inches of open space above your herbs to cover with oil.

Fill remaining space in jar with oil of choice, making sure to cover herbs by at least 1 inch or more. If the herbs emerge above the surface of the oil at any point while infusing, pour more oil on top to ensure the herbs remain covered.

Make sure to cap the jar tightly and shake well. (you dont want to go to shake your container and get oil and herbs everywhere, trust me...) This step is super inportant because you want to herbs to be completely covered in oil for a good infusion process.

Place jar in a sunny, warm windowsill and shake once or more per day. I personally like to use a crock pot when infusing oils. I find that keeping the crock pot on low uncovered is a great way to complete this process and you can do it in a couple of hours instead of a couple of weeks.

After 2 to 3 weeks, strain the herbs out of the oil using cheesecloth or a mesh strainer. Make sure to squeeze out as much of the precious oil as possible!

Pour into clean, dry, glass bottles. Dont forget to label your jars with the date, type of oil, and herbs used.

Store in a cool, dark place. The oil may keep for up to a year. Vitamin E oil at a concentration of up to 1% may also be added to prolong shelf life for oils to be used topically.

WorkCited:

https://www.udemy.com/herbalism-medicine-making/learn/lecture/5935702#overview

https://blog.mountainroseherbs.com/making-herbal-oils

https://www.hgtv.com/design/make-and-celebrate/handmade/healing-herbs-learn-to-make-infused-oils-and-balms

Basil by Wanderer MoonChild

Basil

by Wanderer MoonChild

🌱 Botanical Basics

1. Common Name(s): Basil, Sweet Basil
2. Folk Name(s): St. Joseph’s Wort, Witches’ Herb, King of Herbs, Tulsi (though Tulsi is technically Ocimum sanctum / Holy Basil, a close cousin)
3. Scientific/Latin Name: Ocimum basilicum
4. Family: Lamiaceae (Mint Family)
5. Plant Type: Annual (in most climates), tender perennial in warm/tropical regions
6. Botanical Description: Aromatic herb with square stems, bright green to purple ovate leaves, and small white to purple flowers that form on terminal spikes. Grows 12–24 inches tall, highly fragrant when touched.
7. Growing Zones/Climate: USDA zones 10–11 as perennial; grown as annual elsewhere. Prefers warm climates.
8. Best Zones for Growth: Thrives in zones 4–9 as a summer annual; perennial in subtropical/tropical climates.
9. Habitat & Range: Native to tropical Asia and Africa; widely cultivated worldwide for culinary and medicinal use.
   

🌿 Cultivation & Harvest

1. Soil & Sun Requirements: Well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. Full sun (6–8 hours daily).
2. Propagation: Commonly grown from seed; can also be propagated from cuttings.
3. Companion Planting: Excellent companion to tomatoes, peppers, oregano, marigolds. Repels mosquitoes, flies, and some pests.
4. Harvesting Guidelines: Harvest leaves regularly to encourage bushy growth; pinch off flower spikes to extend leaf production. Best harvested in morning after dew has dried.
5. Drying/Preservation: Air-dry in small bundles, use dehydrator, or freeze fresh leaves in oil or water to preserve flavor.

🌸 Traditional & Historical Use

1. Cultural Significance: Sacred in many cultures; in India, Holy Basil (Tulsi) is revered and used in daily ritual. In Europe, basil was linked to love, wealth, and protection. In ancient Greece and Rome, basil was associated with both love and mourning.
2. Traditional Medicine: Used in Ayurvedic, Chinese, and Mediterranean medicine for digestive issues, fevers, headaches, coughs, and infections.
3. Symbolism: Basil often symbolizes love, fertility, protection, and prosperity.

🌼 Medicinal & Practical Properties

1. Active Constituents: Essential oils (linalool, eugenol, methyl chavicol), flavonoids, tannins, saponins, vitamins A, C, K, and minerals.
2. Medicinal Uses: Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, digestive aid, carminative, adaptogenic (especially Holy Basil/Tulsi). Used for colds, stomach upset, stress, headaches.
3. Preparation Methods: Fresh leaves as tea; tinctures; infused oils; poultices; culinary use as seasoning.
4. Dosage & Guidelines: Tea: 1–2 tsp fresh/dried leaves per cup, up to 3 times daily. Tincture: 2–4 mL, up to 3x daily. (Varies by preparation and health need.)
5. Safety/Precautions: Generally safe; excessive consumption may thin blood (eugenol content). Avoid in large medicinal doses during pregnancy without guidance.

🌙 Magical & Spiritual Properties

1. Elemental Association: Fire (sometimes Air, depending on tradition)
2. Planetary/Deity Correspondence: Mars, sometimes Venus; associated with Vishnu, Lakshmi, and love/protection deities.
3. Magical Correspondences: Love, prosperity, protection, purification, wealth-drawing, banishment of negativity.
4. Ritual Use: Used in love spells, money-drawing charms, purification baths, protective sachets, and as an offering herb. Sprinkled at doorways to attract blessings or deter evil.
5. Symbolism in Divination/Dreams: Seeing basil in dreams may symbolize reconciliation, success, or romantic opportunities.

🌍 Ecological & Culinary Uses

1. Pollinator Value: Highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and pollinators when flowering.
2. Wildlife Uses: Provides nectar for pollinators; leaves are aromatic deterrents to pests.
3. Culinary Uses: Staple herb in Mediterranean, Asian, and African cuisines. Used fresh or dried in sauces, soups, salads, and oils (notably pesto).
4. Household/Practical Uses: Basil oil can be used as a natural insect repellent; infused water used for cleansing spaces.

⚡ Fast Facts

1. Quick Uses: Soothes digestion, repels insects, enhances flavor in cooking, used in spells for love and prosperity.
2. Notable Traits: Grows quickly, very fragrant, both culinary and magical versatility.
3. Special Notes: Basil placed in a shop is said to attract wealth and customers; carried on the body for courage.

📖 Supporting Notes

1. Grieve, M. A Modern Herbal
2. Duke, J.A. Handbook of Medicinal Herbs
3. Bremness, L. Herbs
4. Chevallier, A. The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants
5. Cunningham, S. Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs

Infused Honey

What you will need to make this infused honey:

medicinal herbs of choice

organic raw honey

jar with tight fitting lid

cheese cloth

strainer

Fill the jar half way full with herbs and honey. completely cover the the herbs with honey and make sure the use a chop stick or something to stir it with, you want to make sure that you mix all of the herbs well and make sure they’re covered in the honey removing all air from the mixture.

Most air removal will happen naturally during the infusion process.

Some like to leave their honey in the window and allow it to infuse for a couple of weeks but i prefer the crock pot method.

I like to let mine set in a water bath in my slow cooker on low, uncovered, for 2-3 hours, making sure to check the temperature of the honey regularly to make sure you don’t cook out any of the medicinal properties.

When using honey; it’s really important not to heat the honey above 110 degrees f. because it kills all of the good bacteria in the honey and if the temperature fluctuates; it allows the opportunity for bad bacteria to grow.

Once the honey is good and infused, use your cheese cloth and strainer to strain the lavender out of the honey, this process does take a while but is worth the wait

Once finished straining, put a tight fitting lid on the jar and make sure to label or date your infused honey. As long as the infusion process went well; the honey infusion should last 6 months to a year if stored properly in a dark cool place. 

WARNING: Honey is not to be consumed by infants under 12-13 months of life!

WorkCited:

Infused Syrups

Mother Earth gives us all the things we need to feel better as long as we know what we are looking for and medicinal plants have so many ways to help us feel better and cure what ails us but they are not always the best to taste or sometimes it’s just easier to ingest the herbs you need by adding them to your favorite tea. Infusing Herbs with syrups is a great way to help get the medicinal benefits of herbs in a way that is extra tasty and is usually a hit with the kids. All you are going to need is: 1 oz Herbs 2 cups water 1 cup honey (or other syrup) 1 canning jar Cheese Cloth Candy Thermometer We are going to start by making a very strong decoction. Start by putting 2 cups water in to simmer with 1 oz herbs. Simmer until half of the water has evaporated. when the decoction is finished simmering, let cool until warm (under 110 degree f) then add to 1 cup of honey. When using honey; it’s really important not to heat the honey above 110 degrees f. because it cooks off all of the good bacteria in the honey and if the temperature fluctuates; it allows the opportunity for bad bacteria to grow. Once the honey is good and combined, add a tight lid and make sure to label or date your infused syrup. As long as the infusion process went well; the honey infusion should last 6 months to a year if stored properly. WARNING: Honey is not to be consumed by infants under 12-13 months of life!

WorkCited: https://www.udemy.com/herbalism-medicine-making/learn/lecture/10788812#overview Photo by Mareefe from Pexels

Herbals & Botany Glossary

🌱 Herbals & Botany Glossary

A reference guide to common terms used in basic botany and herbal preparation.

🌿 Plant Structure & Botany Terms

1. Whole Plant – The above-ground portion of a plant, including stem, leaves, flowers, and fruit.
2. Root – The below-ground portion of a plant that anchors it and absorbs water and nutrients.
3. Rhizome – A horizontal underground stem that can produce new shoots and roots (e.g., ginger).
4. Stolon (Runner) – A creeping stem that grows along the ground and can root at intervals to form new plants (e.g., strawberry).
5. Tuber – A swollen underground stem that stores nutrients (e.g., potato).
6. Corm – A short, vertical underground stem that stores food for the plant (e.g., gladiolus).
7. Bulb – An underground storage organ made of layered leaves or scales (e.g., onion, tulip).
8. Crown – The part of a plant at soil level where roots and stems meet.
9. Node – The point on a stem where leaves, branches, or flowers grow.
10. Internode – The section of stem between two nodes.
11. Axil – The angle between a leaf and stem where buds often form.
12. Bract – A modified leaf, often brightly colored, that supports or protects a flower (e.g., poinsettia).
13. Taproot – A thick, central root that grows downward, with smaller roots branching off.
14. Succulent – A plant with thick, fleshy leaves or stems adapted to store water.
15. Umbel – A flat-topped or rounded flower cluster where stalks all arise from a single point (e.g., dill, carrot).
16. Whorl – A circular arrangement of three or more leaves, flowers, or branches growing from the same level on a stem.
17. Pistil – The female reproductive part of a flower, consisting of stigma, style, and ovary.
18. Stamen – The male reproductive part of a flower, consisting of anther and filament.
19. Pollination – The transfer of pollen from the stamen to the pistil, enabling fertilization.
20. Self-seeding – Plants that naturally drop seeds and regrow without human assistance.

🌳 Plant Life Cycle & Growth Terms

1. Annual – A plant that completes its life cycle (from seed to seed) in one year and then dies.
2. Biennial – A plant that grows leaves the first year, then flowers, produces seed, and dies in the second year.
3. Perennial – A plant that lives for more than two years, often flowering and seeding multiple times.
4. Deciduous – A tree or shrub that sheds its leaves annually, usually in autumn.
5. Evergreen – A plant that keeps its foliage year-round, replacing leaves gradually.
6. Dormant – A resting state where the plant is alive but not actively growing.
7. Hardy – A plant able to tolerate the climate of a specific region year-round.

🌼 Herbal Preparation Methods

1. Base Oil (Carrier Oil) – Oils such as olive, jojoba, or almond used to extract herbal properties.
2. Herbal Oil (Infused Oil) – A medicinal oil prepared by steeping or gently heating herbs in a base oil.
3. Compress – A cloth soaked in an herbal preparation and applied to the body externally.
4. Poultice – Fresh or dried herbs mashed and applied topically.
   
5. Soothing Poultice – Calms irritation or inflammation.
6. Drawing Poultice – Pulls impurities or toxins from the skin.
7. Heating Poultice – Stimulates circulation or relieves sore muscles.
8. 
   
9. Decoction – A preparation made by simmering tough plant parts (roots, bark, seeds) in water.
10. Infusion – Extracting properties by soaking herbs in water.
    
11. Hot Infusion – Leaves, flowers, or fruits steeped in hot water.
12. Cold Infusion – Herbs steeped in cold water over several hours.
13. Solar Infusion (Sun Tea) – Herbs steeped in water and placed in sunlight for gentle heat extraction.
14. 
    
15. Maceration – Soaking herbs in liquid (oil, alcohol, vinegar, or water) at room temperature to extract properties.
16. Tincture – An alcohol-based herbal extraction.
17. Glycerite – An herbal extract made using glycerine.
18. Aceta – An herbal extract made using vinegar.
19. Oxymel – A preparation combining herbs, vinegar, and honey.
20. Syrup – A sweet herbal extract made by combining an infusion or decoction with sugar or honey.
21. Elixir – A tincture blended with honey or syrup to improve taste.
22. Electuary – A paste made by mixing powdered herbs with honey.
23. Liniment – An external-use preparation, often alcohol- or vinegar-based, rubbed into the skin for pain relief or circulation.
24. Salve – A semi-solid herbal preparation of oil and wax, applied topically.
25. Capsules – Herbs dried, powdered, and placed into gelatin or vegetable capsules for ingestion.
26. Herbal Powder – Finely ground dried herbs used directly or in recipes.
27. Herbal Vinegar – Vinegar infused with herbs for culinary or medicinal use.
28. Herbal Honey – Honey infused with herbs for medicine or flavor.
29. Herbal Tea Blend – A mix of herbs prepared for flavor, relaxation, or therapeutic effects.
30. Essential Oil – A concentrated oil distilled from aromatic plants; requires specialized equipment.
31. Hydrosol (Floral Water) – A gentle, water-based product from essential oil distillation, containing trace plant compounds.

🌾 Herbal Practices

1. Constituents – The natural chemical compounds in plants that produce medicinal effects.
2. Menstruum – The liquid (alcohol, vinegar, glycerine, oil) used to extract herbal properties.
3. Wildcrafting – Harvesting plants from their natural, wild habitat.

Lily of the Valley by Wanderer MoonChild

Lily of the Valley

by Wanderer MoonChild

🌱 Botanical Basics

1. Common Name(s): Lily of the Valley
2. Folk Name(s): May Bells, Our Lady’s Tears, Ladder to Heaven, Jacob’s Ladder, Fairy Cups
3. Scientific/Latin Name: Convallaria majalis
4. Family: Asparagaceae (formerly Liliaceae)
5. Plant Type: Perennial, rhizomatous groundcover
6. Botanical Description: Low-growing herbaceous perennial with arching stems; tiny, bell-shaped white flowers (occasionally pink), intensely fragrant; glossy, lance-shaped leaves in pairs; produces small orange-red berries after flowering.
7. Growing Zones/Climate: USDA Zones 3–8
8. Best Zones for Growth: Prefers cooler temperate regions; thrives in partial shade woodlands.
9. Habitat & Range: Native to Europe and Asia; naturalized in North America; found in woodland understories, shaded slopes, and moist, humus-rich soils.

🌿 Cultivation & Harvest

1. Soil & Sun Requirements: Moist, fertile, well-drained soil; partial to full shade. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils.
2. Propagation: Best propagated by division of rhizomes in autumn or early spring; slow to grow from seed.
3. Companion Planting: Pairs well with shade-loving perennials like hostas, ferns, and bleeding hearts.
4. Harvesting Guidelines: Use extreme caution—all parts of the plant are highly toxic. Flowers may be gathered for fragrance or ritual, but gloves should be worn.
5. Drying/Preservation: Flowers may be carefully pressed for ritual or decorative use; not typically dried for medicinal or culinary purposes due to toxicity.

🌸 Traditional & Historical Use

1. Cultural Significance: In European folklore, the flower was associated with humility, purity, and the return of happiness. In France, it is a traditional gift on May Day (La Fête du Muguet).
2. Traditional Medicine: Historically used in small, controlled doses as a heart tonic, similar to foxglove, for treating arrhythmias and dropsy.
3. Symbolism: Represents purity, renewal, and the arrival of spring; often linked with the Virgin Mary in Christian tradition as “Our Lady’s Tears.”

🌼 Medicinal & Practical Properties

1. Active Constituents: Cardiac glycosides (convallatoxin, convallamarin, convallatoxol), flavonoids, saponins.
2. Medicinal Uses: Historically for heart failure, arrhythmia, and fluid retention (dropsy). Sometimes used externally in poultices for burns or skin conditions.
3. Preparation Methods: Tinctures, infusions, and decoctions were once prepared by trained herbalists or physicians—not recommended for home use.
4. Dosage & Guidelines: Extremely narrow therapeutic window; traditional dosing was done under strict supervision.
5. Safety/Precautions: Highly poisonous. All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, irregular heartbeat, and even death. Should never be self-administered.

🌙 Magical & Spiritual Properties

1. Elemental Association: Water
2. Planetary/Deity Correspondence: Venus; also linked with Maia (Roman goddess of spring), the Virgin Mary, and sometimes fairies.
3. Magical Correspondences: Purity, renewal, happiness, protection, spiritual cleansing, return of joy.
4. Ritual Use: Flowers are used in spring rites, handfastings, or May Day rituals. Can be placed on altars for blessings of happiness or new beginnings.
5. Symbolism in Divination/Dreams: Seeing lily of the valley in dreams can signify renewal, joy returning after hardship, or a message from ancestors or the divine feminine.

🌍 Ecological & Culinary Usea:

1. Pollinator Value: Provides nectar to bees, especially in shaded woodland habitats.
2. Wildlife Uses: Its berries are consumed by some birds, though toxic to humans and pets.
3. Culinary Uses: None. Plant is poisonous—should never be used in food or drink.

Works Cited / Sources

1. USDA NRCS. Convallaria majalis Plant Profile. United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. https://plants.usda.gov/plantguide/pdf/cs_coma17.pdf
2. Duke, James A. Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. 2nd ed., CRC Press, 2002.
3. Grieve, Maud. A Modern Herbal. Dover Publications, 1971 (original 1931). Botanical.com entry: Lily of the Valley
4. Foster, Steven, and James A. Duke. Peterson Field Guide to Medicinal Plants and Herbs of Eastern and Central North America. 3rd ed., Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2014.
5. Plants for a Future (PFAF). “Convallaria majalis — Lily of the Valley.” https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Convallaria+majalis
6. Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). “Lily of the Valley — Growing Guide.” https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/959/convalaria-majalis/details
7. Chevallier, Andrew. Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. 3rd ed., DK Publishing, 2016.