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Bay Laurel

Gardening Tips: Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Drought-tolerant once established. Prune regularly to maintain shape

Precautions: Not safe for pregnant women in large amounts. Some people may have mild skin sensitivity to the leaves.

Home Remedies: Used in cooking. Bay leaf tea aids digestion and relieves bloating. Used in steam inhalation to clear nasal congestion. Added to bathwater to relieve muscle aches.

Symbolism: Victory, wisdom, and protection. Placed under a pillow to ward off nightmares. Manifesting by writing wishes on leaves and burning them.

1. Bay Leaf Tea (for digestion & relaxation)

Ingredients:

2 dried bay leaves

1 cup hot water

Honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Steep the bay leaves in hot water for 10 minutes.

2. Strain and drink to relieve bloating, colds, and stress.

2. Bay Leaf Steam Inhalation (for congestion & colds)

Ingredients:

3-4 dried bay leaves

4 cups boiling water

Instructions:

1. Place bay leaves in a bowl of hot water.

2. Cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes.

3. Bay Leaf Infused Oil (for muscle pain & skincare)

Ingredients:

5 dried bay leaves

1 cup olive or coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Crush the bay leaves slightly and place them in a glass jar.

2. Pour the oil over the leaves and let sit for 2 weeks.

3. Strain and use for massages or skin nourishment.

4. Bay Leaf Broth (for soups & stews)

Ingredients:

1-2 bay leaves

4 cups water or broth

Vegetables, herbs, and seasonings of choice

Instructions:

1. Add bay leaves to your broth while cooking for added depth of flavor.

2. Remove the leaves before serving.

5. Bay Leaf Rice (for extra aroma & digestion aid)

Ingredients:

1 cup rice

2 cups water

1 bay leaf

A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Add a bay leaf to the pot while cooking rice.

2. Remove before serving for a fragrant dish.

6. Herbal Bay Leaf Tea Blend

Ingredients:

1 dried bay leaf

1 tsp dried chamomile or peppermint

1 cup hot water

Instructions:

1. Steep all ingredients in hot water for 10 minutes.

2. Strain and drink for relaxation and digestion support.

7. Write a wish on a bay leaf and burn it to manifest your desires.

8. Place bay leaves under your pillow to ward off nightmares.

9. Burn dried bay leaves to purify a space from negative energy.

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Basil

Gardening Tips: Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Water regularly but avoid overwatering. Pinch off flowers to encourage leaf growth.

Precautions: May lower blood sugar and blood pressure. Some people may be allergic to basil oil.

Home Remedies: Basil is generally used in cooking. Basil tea helps relieve stress and headaches. Chewing fresh leaves aids digestion and reduces bloating. Basil oil can be used for acne treatment.

Symbolism: Love, prosperity, and protection. Planted in pots to bring wealth and good luck. Burned as incense to cleanse negative energy.

1. Basil Tea (for digestion & stress relief)

Ingredients:

1 tbsp fresh or 1 tsp dried basil leaves

1 cup hot water

Instructions:

1. Steep basil leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes.

2. Strain and drink to relieve bloating, nausea, or stress.

2. Basil Steam Inhalation (for colds & congestion)

Ingredients:

A handful of fresh basil leaves

4 cups boiling water

Instructions:

1. Add basil leaves to a bowl of hot water.

2. Lean over, cover your head with a towel, and inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes.

3. Basil Infused Oil (for skin & hair care)

Ingredients:

1 cup fresh basil leaves

1 cup olive or coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Crush the basil leaves slightly and place them in a glass jar.

2. Pour oil over the leaves and seal the jar.

3. Let sit in a warm place for 2 weeks, shaking occasionally.

4. Strain and use for skin hydration or scalp massage.

4. Classic Basil Pesto

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh basil leaves

1/2 cup olive oil

1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts

2 cloves garlic

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth.

2. Use as a pasta sauce, sandwich spread, or dip.

5. Basil Lemonade (Refreshing Summer Drink)

Ingredients:

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

4 cups cold water

Juice of 2 lemons

2 tbsp honey or sugar

Instructions:

1. Muddle basil leaves in a pitcher.

2. Add lemon juice, honey, and water.

3. Stir well and serve chilled.

6. Warding Off Evil: Hang fresh basil in doorways to keep away negative energy.

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Asphodel

Gardening Tips: Thrives in sandy, well-drained soil with full sun. Requires minimal watering once established. Blooms with striking white or yellow flowers

Precautions: Some parts of the plant can be mildly toxic if ingested.

Home Remedies: Used in folk medicine for wound healing.. Infused into oils for skin care and anti-aging treatments

Symbolism: Death, rebirth, and remembrance. Associated with the afterlife and spirit communication. Planted in graveyards for protection and guidance.

⚠️Some parts of Asphodelus species may be toxic or irritating if consumed. Traditionally, it has been used externally and symbolically rather than as an internal remedy.

1. Asphodel Charm for Protection & Afterlife Connection

In Greek mythology, asphodel was associated with the afterlife and spirits of the dead.

Grave Offerings: Place fresh asphodel flowers on graves to honor ancestors.

Protection Charm: Dry the flowers and carry them in a small pouch to ward off negative energy.

Dream Work: Place dried asphodel flowers under your pillow to enhance dream recall and spiritual connection.

2. Asphodel Garden Planting (for warding off evil)

Plant asphodel near the entrance of your home or garden.

According to folklore, this prevents unwanted spirits and negativity from entering.

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Arnica

Gardening Tips: Grows best in sandy, well-drained soil with full sun.

Precautions: Toxic if ingested; use only in topical applications.

Home Remedies: Infused oil for bruises and muscle pain. Arnica creams soothe inflammation.

Symbolism: Healing, vitality, and endurance. Placing Arnica around the home wards off negative energy.

1. Arnica Oil (for pain relief & bruising)

Ingredients:

1/4 cup arnica flowers (dried)

1 cup olive oil (or another carrier oil)

Instructions:

1. Place the arnica flowers in a jar and cover with olive oil.

2. Seal and let sit in a warm place for 2-3 weeks, shaking occasionally.

3. Strain and store in a dark bottle. Apply to bruises, sore muscles, or joint pain.

2. Arnica Salve (for swelling & inflammation)

Ingredients:

1/4 cup arnica oil (from above)

2 tbsp beeswax

Instructions:

1. Melt beeswax in a double boiler.

2. Stir in the arnica oil and mix well.

3. Pour into a small container and let cool. Apply to sore or inflamed areas.

3. Arnica Compress (for bruises & sprains)

Ingredients:

1-2 tbsp arnica tincture

1 cup warm water

Instructions:

1. Dilute arnica tincture in warm water.

2. Soak a clean cloth in the solution and apply it to bruises or sprained areas for 15-20 minutes.

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Creating a "Witchy" Garden

Choose Your Space

Size & Placement: You can create a garden in a small container, a windowsill, or an outdoor patch of land. Ensure the space gets the appropriate amount of sunlight (herbs generally need 6-8 hours per day) and is easy to tend to.

Environment: Design your space to align with the energies you wish to attract, such as placing plants associated with protection near the entrance or flowers that attract pollinators around the garden.

Best Plants to Start With

Beginner-friendly plants that can thrive almost anywhere, regardless of climate. These plants are resilient, adaptable, and useful.

1. Mint (Mentha spp.)

Thrives in most climates, grows quickly, and is great for teas and remedies.

Grows well in pots (to prevent spreading) or directly in the garden.

2. Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)

Drought-resistant, hardy in cold and hot climates.

Used for cleansing, memory, and protection.

3. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Survives in dry, poor soil and is great for cooking and medicinal use.

Symbolizes courage and purification.

4. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Grows indoors or outdoors.

Needs regular harvesting to thrive.

5. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)

Cold-hardy, great for pest control, and requires little maintenance.

6. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)

Quick-growing and does well in most conditions.

Can be grown in containers, raised beds, or directly in soil.

7. Radishes (Raphanus sativus)

Fast-growing (ready in 3-4 weeks), thrives in most soils.

8. Carrots (Daucus carota subsp. sativus)

Hardy root vegetable that tolerates cold and heat.

9. Garlic (Allium sativum)

Grows almost anywhere and is used in protective spells and folk medicine.

Great for warding off negative energy.

10. Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)

Thrives in various temperatures, fast-growing, and nutrient-rich.

11. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)

Grow well in most climates and repel pests.

Used for protection and honoring ancestors.

12. Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Cold and heat-tolerant, used for skincare and healing.

Represents warmth, positivity, and joy.

13. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla or Chamaemelum nobile)

Grows in most climates and is used for relaxation, dreams, and purification.

14. Strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa)

Grow in containers, raised beds, or hanging baskets.

Symbolize love and abundance.

15. Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum)

Easy to grow in pots or gardens, adaptable to different climates.

Associated with protection and prosperity.

How to Plant & Care for Plants

Soil: Use loose, well-draining, and nutrient-rich soil for most plants. You can create your own mix using compost, peat moss, and perlite for good air circulation. Herbs prefer slightly alkaline or neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0).

Spacing: Ensure you space your plants to allow for healthy growth. Crowding can hinder their ability to grow.

Planting Depth: Follow seed packet instructions for the correct planting depth. Most herbs and flowers need to be sown at a depth of about twice their size.

Companion Planting: Some plants work well together. For instance, basil and tomatoes are great companions, as basil repels certain pests that could harm tomatoes.

Best Time to Water: Water your garden early in the morning or late in the evening. This allows plants to absorb water before the heat of the day or overnight without suffering from water evaporation.

Watering Amount: Water thoroughly when the soil feels dry about 1 inch deep. Be careful not to overwater, especially herbs, as it can lead to root rot.

Timing & Moon Phases

New Moon: Time for planting new seeds. A good time to start a garden.

Waxing Moon: The best phase for planting leafy greens, herbs, and flowers that grow above the ground. Time of growth.

Full Moon: Harvesting of herbs and fruits. It’s a time to gather your plants. Energy is at its peak.

Waning Moon: This phase is ideal for root crops, tubers, and perennials. It’s also a time for trimming and pruning to encourage a healthy harvest.

Zero Waste

1. Composting:

Create a compost bin or pile to recycle organic waste. This not only reduces waste but also enriches your soil with nutrients for your plants. Include plant scraps, peels, eggshells, and coffee grounds.

2. Reusing Containers:

Repurpose old containers like jars, cups, or wooden crates for planting.

3. Mulching:

Mulch with natural materials like straw, leaves, or grass clippings to prevent weeds, conserve moisture, and improve soil quality.

Natural Fertilizing

1. Compost Tea:

Steep compost in water to create a "compost tea" that can be used as a liquid fertilizer. This is rich in beneficial microorganisms that promote healthy soil.

2. Manure:

Use organic manure (chicken, cow, or horse) to provide essential nutrients to your plants. Make sure it’s well-composted to avoid burning plants.

3. Fish Emulsion:

A natural liquid fertilizer made from fish byproducts, providing a balanced mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It's perfect for boosting growth in a witchy garden.

4. Banana Peel Fertilizer:

Chop up banana peels and add them directly to the soil. They are rich in potassium and phosphorus, which supports flowering and fruiting plants.

Seeds

1. Seed Saving:

Collect seeds from plants once they’ve gone to seed, dry them thoroughly, and store them in labeled envelopes. This reduces costs and creates a self-sustaining garden.

2. Natural Seed Starting:

Start your seeds in small biodegradable pots made from newspaper or cardboard to minimize plastic waste.

Consider using kitchen scraps for planting, such as potato eyes for growing new potatoes or citrus peels for herb starts.

Garden Symbolism

Garlic, Rue, and Yarrow: These are associated with protection and banishing. Plant these near doorways or along fences for warding off negative energy.

Rose, Jasmine, and Lavender: Plant these near seating areas for love and harmonious energy.

Aloe Vera, Basil, and Mint: Grow these in abundance for healing rituals and attracting wealth.

Mugwort, Sage, and Lavender: Great for enhancing intuition, psychic visions, and connection with the spiritual realm.

These are just some examples.

Each plant carries its own symbolism, and purpose, but the meanings they hold can vary from person to person. What resonates with one gardener may have a completely different significance for another. Select the plants that speak to you, whether for their beauty, healing properties, or the sense of connection they bring to your space.

What to avoid in your garden

Invasive Species:

Bindweed, Bermuda Grass, Nutsedge: These aggressive plants can overrun your garden, choking out desired herbs and flowers. Their pervasive nature makes them difficult to control, potentially disrupting the harmonious balance of your space.

Plants Harmful to Pets and Wildlife:

Lilies: While beautiful, lilies are toxic to cats and can pose serious health risks.

Other Toxic Plants: Research any plant's compatibility with local fauna before inclusion, ensuring your garden remains a safe haven.

Plants that cannot thrive where you live:

Plants that originate from different regions often struggle in unfamiliar environments. They may require excessive watering, specific soil conditions, or special care that disrupts your garden's natural harmony.

Native plants are better adapted to the local climate and soil.

Using Synthetic Chemicals:

Employing artificial fertilizers and pesticides can introduce harmful substances into your garden. Opt for organic and natural alternatives to maintain the garden's purity.

Other things you can put in your garden (not plants).

Herbal Drying Rack or Witch’s Ladder.

Stone arrangements, wind chimes, candles, a birdbath, water bowl or water basins.

Altars and sigils.

A small fairy house or spirit house.

Crystals & Stones

Moss Agate: "Gardener’s Stone". A great stone for plant growth.

Green Aventurine – "Stone of Prosperity". Ideal for vegetable and herb gardens.

Tree Agate – "Stone of Inner Peace". Enhances the connection between plants and their caretakers.

Obsidian – "Stone of Grounding & Protection". Place near entry points or around a meditation space.

Citrine – "Stone of Sunlight & Abundance". Attracts bees, butterflies, and other helpful pollinators.

Rose Quartz – "Love & Compassion". Place near flowers or fruit trees to boost blooming.

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Alfalfa

Gardening Tips: Grows best in full sun with well-draining soil.Requires moderate watering and occasional trimming. Improves soil quality by fixing nitrogen.

Precautions: Can cause bloating if consumed in large amounts. Should be avoided by people with autoimmune diseases.

Home Remedies: Alfalfa tea is used for detoxification and digestion. Supports heart health and lowers cholesterol. Used as a natural energy booster.

Symbolism: Prosperity, abundance, and health. Carried in a sachet for financial success and protection against poverty.

Alfalfa can be used for many health benefits, but avoid excessive consumption as it may interact with medications or conditions, especially for people with autoimmune diseases. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using alfalfa for medicinal purposes.

1. Alfalfa Tea (for digestion & detoxification)

Ingredients:

1-2 tsp dried alfalfa leaves

1 cup hot water

Instructions:

1. Steep dried alfalfa leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes.

2. Strain and drink 1-2 times a day to support digestion and detox.

2. Alfalfa Sprouts (for nutrition & salads)

Ingredients:

Alfalfa seeds (1-2 tbsp)

Water

Instructions:

1. Rinse the alfalfa seeds and soak them in water for 4-6 hours.

2. Drain the seeds and place them in a sprouting container or jar.

3. Rinse and drain the seeds twice a day until they sprout (about 3-4 days).

4. Add fresh alfalfa sprouts to salads, sandwiches, or smoothies for added nutrition.

3. Alfalfa Poultice (for skin irritations & inflammation)

Ingredients:

Fresh or dried alfalfa leaves

Water

Instructions:

1. Crush fresh alfalfa leaves or grind dried alfalfa into a paste with water.

2. Apply directly to inflamed or irritated skin for 15-20 minutes.

3. Rinse off with cool water.

4. Alfalfa Juice (for energy & health)

Ingredients:

A handful of fresh alfalfa sprouts

1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Blend fresh alfalfa sprouts with water.

2. Strain and drink the juice to support overall health and energy.

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Almond

Gardening Tips: Requires full sun and well-drained soil. Needs regular watering during the growing season. Prune to encourage fruit production.

Precautions: Bitter almonds contain cyanide and should not be consumed raw. Can cause allergies in some individuals.

Home Remedies: Almond oil is used for hair growth and skin hydration. Consuming almonds improves brain function and heart health. Almond paste is used as a natural exfoliant.

Symbolism: Prosperity, wisdom, and renewal. Planted near homes for protection.

1. Almond Milk

Ingredients:

1 cup almonds

3-4 cups water

Instructions:

Soak almonds overnight in water.

Blend soaked almonds with fresh water until smooth.

Strain the mixture to remove almond pulp and drink the milk.

Can be used daily for hydration and as a dairy alternative.

2. Almond Oil

Ingredients:

2 cups raw almonds

Cheesecloth or a fine strainer

Instructions:

1. Roast the Almonds: Lightly roast the almonds at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to help release the oils. Let them cool.

2. Grind the Almonds: In a food processor, grind the almonds into a fine paste (this process is called "milling").

3. Extract the Oil: Once you have a thick almond paste, transfer it to a clean cheesecloth or nut milk bag.

4. Press the Oil: Squeeze the paste tightly to extract the oil. If you have a nut press, that will work as well, or you can simply squeeze with your hands.

5. Store the Oil: Pour the extracted oil into a clean bottle or jar. Store in a cool, dark place.

6. Optional: You can also use a double boiler method to warm the paste slightly, helping release more oil, but this step is optional.

The homemade almond oil will be useful for skin, hair, or culinary purposes.

Massage almond oil into your skin to moisturize or reduce scars.

Apply to your scalp and hair for added shine and nourishment. Leave for 20 minutes before rinsing for best results.

3. Almond Paste (for skin exfoliation)

Ingredients:

2 tbsp ground almonds

1 tbsp honey or yogurt

Instructions:

Mix ground almonds with honey or yogurt to form a thick paste.

Gently massage onto your face or body for exfoliation.

Rinse off after 10 minutes for smooth, glowing skin.

4. Almond Butter

Ingredients:

2 cups raw almonds

1-2 tbsp honey (optional)

A pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Roast the almonds on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.

3. Let them cool slightly, then blend in a food processor for about 5-10 minutes until smooth.

4. Add honey and salt to taste (optional).

5. Store in an airtight jar for up to 2 weeks.

It can be used as a spread or a snack.

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Herb’s Properties part 3

Aloe: femininity, healing, protection, beauty, love

Anise: dreams, youth, lust, blessing, cleansing, divination, offerings, protection, spirit protection

Alfalfa: protection, money, happiness, grounding, fertility

Bayberry: Good fortune, luck, healing, and stress relief.

Clover: money, prosperity, luck, happiness, spirit work, fae, protection, healing

Clove: healing, prosperity, friendships, money 

Catmint: healing, animal magic, relaxation, calmness, happiness, psychic ability, love, wishes, meditation

Cayenne: strength, curses, protection, heartbreak, curse breaking, love

Chives: protection, balance, divination

Lemongrass: psychic ability, divination, cleansing, communication, protection, love, luck, jobs

Magnolia: love, fertility, meditation, psychic ability, healing, strength

Mint: communication, energy, money, spirit work, cleansing

Olive leaf: healing, luck, protection, cleansing, fertility, offerings, blessings

Raspberry leaf: fertility, femininity, menstrual cycle, lunar magic, love, creativity, protection

Saffron: healing, offerings, wealth, strength, blessing, cleansing, psychic ability, sleep

Paprika: spell work, energy, psychic ability, curses, creativity

Tarragon: luck, calmness, secrets, peace, love, protection, meditation, spirit work

Valerian: spirit work, absorption of negativity, protection, self acceptance

Spirulina: power, strength, health, luck

Wheatgrass: cleansing, protection, blessing

Ylang Ylang: beauty, love, luck, happiness, relationships

Ko-Fi Herb’s Properties Part1 Herb’s Properties Part2

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Herb's Properties part 2

Apple: Garden magic, love, healing and wisdom, vanity, marriage and beauty.

Agrimony: Shielding and hex-breaking, aids sleep, brings luck towards you and is powerful in spell reversal.

Allspice: Money, luck, healing, love

Benzoin: Purification, prosperity, helps to soothe tension by dispelling anger and lessening irritability, de stressing, helps with depression, concentration, astral projection

Catnip: love, luck, happiness, beauty.

Cardamom: Lust, love, and fidelity. Sweetens the personality

Cumin: Fidelity, protection, exorcism.

Damiana: Love, lust, lucid dreaming, astral projection

Elder Tree: Sleep, releasing enchantments, protection against negativity, banishing.

Ginseng: Love, beauty, healing and lust.

Hibiscus: Love, lust, dreams, divination.

Hawthorn: Change, rebirth, protection, emotional healing, and happiness in relationships

Lemon Balm: Love, fertility, anti-depressant, and soothing emotional pain

Mandrake: Strengthens spells, protection, fertility, and courage

Nettle: Courage, breaking curses, healing, protection, crossing thresholds, and renewal

Patchouli: Connecting with spirits, attracting money, increasing fertility, love, and seduction

Rue: Protection, health, clarity, and purification

Sage: Longevity, wisdom, protection, dispels negative energy

St. John’s Wort: Preventing colds and fevers, banishing, protecting against hexes, prophetic dreams, and increasing courage

Witch Hazel: Protection, chastity, easing grief over a lost love, and warding off evil[

Yarrow: Healing, divination, love, promotes courage and confidence

Tip jar Herb's Properties Part1

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Diagrams from a thirteenth-century version of the Ars Notoria.

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Herb's Properties

Basil:  money, luck, prosperity, happiness

Bay Leaf: energy, cleansing, can be charged with almost any intention

Camomile: Caring, kindness, luck, growth, self-love growth, confidence, avoiding negativity, happiness

Cinnamon: passion, quick success, fire magick

Chia seeds: Growth, health, kindness, Property

Chilli flakes:  Pride, confidence, power, strength, Passion

Cumin: Courage, bravery, protection, loyalty

Dandelion: wishes, charisma, success, good luck

Dill: sexual love, luck, protection

Eucalyptus: cleansing, healing, purifying, relaxing, comfort

Fennel:  hate, anger

Flax seeds: Prosperity, growth, new beginnings

Ginger: fiery passion, success, and personal power

Jasmine: love, dreams, sensuality, luxury and kindness

Lavender: love and attraction, purification, relaxation, restful sleep

Nutmeg: luck, Health, Fidelity, Love, Prosperity, comfort, loyalty

Oregano:  comfort, love, warmth

Paprika:  Pride, confidence, power, strength

Parsley: Cleansing. purification

Peppermint: healing, purification, love and energy, cleansing, prosperity

Poppy seeds: protection, intuition, self-assurance, hexing and cursing

Rose: love, beauty, harmony, romance, attraction

Rosemary: cleansing, purification, wisdom, protection

Sesame seeds: Prosperity, growth, health, nurturing

Spearmint: love, cleansing, renewal, blessing

Sunflower seeds: happiness, growth, joy

Thyme: beauty, strength, courage

Turmeric: confidence, creativity, energy

Vanilla: love and sexuality

tip jar

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Acacia

Gardening Tips: Thrives in warm, dry climates with full sun. Prefers well-draining soil and requires little water. Grows quickly and provides excellent shade.

Precautions: Some species have thorns that can cause injury. Certain acacia species produce toxic compounds.

Home Remedies: Acacia gum (gum arabic) is used to soothe sore throats. Used in herbal remedies for wound healing. Has antibacterial properties for skin care.

Symbolism: Protection, resilience, and endurance. Incense used for protection and communication with spirits.

1. Acacia Wood Furniture & Crafts

Acacia wood is strong and water-resistant, making it perfect for:

Furniture (tables, chairs, shelves)

Cutting boards and kitchen utensils

Carved decorations and sculptures

2. Acacia Charcoal

Acacia wood can be burned to create high-quality charcoal for drawing and sketching.

Some parts of the acacia tree, including certain species' bark, leaves, and seeds, can be toxic if ingested. Always ensure you're using a non-toxic variety and avoid internal use.

Always verify the specific species with an expert. Here are a few of the safest Acacia species:

Acacia senegal (Gum Arabic Tree) – Produces edible gum arabic, used in food, medicine, and cosmetics.

Acacia farnesiana (Sweet Acacia) – Its flowers are used in perfumes; safe for external use.

Acacia victoriae (Prickly Wattle) – Its seeds are edible and used in Australian bush food.

Acacia melanoxylon (Blackwood) – Used for safe woodworking; not typically ingested.

⚠️ Acacia Species to Avoid

Many Acacia species contain toxic alkaloids, especially Acacia confusa, Acacia rigidula, and Acacia berlandieri, which can have harmful effects.

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Anemone

Gardening Tips: Thrives in well-drained soil and partial sun. Requires regular watering but should not be overwatered. Best planted in early spring or fall.

Precautions: Toxic if ingested—keep away from pets and children.

Home Remedies: Used in traditional medicine for pain relief (only in controlled doses). Helps ease menstrual cramps in herbal remedies

Symbolism: Anticipation, protection, and new opportunities. Planted near homes for spiritual protection. Warding off bad luck.

Some species of Anemone are toxic when ingested or used on the skin. Always handle with care and avoid internal use unless under expert guidance. There are some symbolic creations one can make with anemones, though.

1. Anemone Flower Sachet (for dreams & intuition)

Ingredients:

Dried anemone petals

Lavender or chamomile (for extra calming effects)

Small cloth pouch

Instructions:

1. Mix the dried anemone petals with lavender or chamomile.

2. Place in a pouch and tuck near your bed to enhance dreams and intuition.

2. Anemone Protection Wreath (for home blessings)

Ingredients:

Fresh or dried anemone flowers

Willow or grapevine wreath base

Twine or floral wire

Instructions:

1. Attach anemone flowers to the wreath base using twine or wire.

2. Hang on your front door for protection and to invite positive energy.

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Ashwagandha

Gardening Tips: Prefers dry, sandy soil and full sun. Drought-tolerant once established. Harvest roots after one growing season.

Precautions: Not recommended for pregnant women. May lower blood sugar and blood pressure too much.

Home Remedies: Root powder used as a stress reliever and adaptogen. Boosts immune function and improves sleep. Helps increase energy and stamina.

Symbolism: Strength, endurance, and vitality. Protection and grounding. Enhances spiritual awareness when burned as incense

1. Ashwagandha Tea (for stress & immunity)

Ingredients:

1 tsp dried ashwagandha root powder

1 cup hot water

Instructions:

1. Boil ashwagandha powder in water for 10 minutes.

2. Strain and drink once daily for relaxation and immunity support.

2. Ashwagandha Milk (for better sleep & strength)

Ingredients:

1 tsp ashwagandha powder

1 cup warm milk

1 tsp honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mix ashwagandha powder into warm milk.

2. Add honey if desired and drink before bedtime.

3. Ashwagandha Paste (for joint pain & inflammation)

Ingredients:

1 tsp ashwagandha powder

A few drops of water or coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Mix ashwagandha powder with water/oil to form a paste.

2. Apply to sore joints or muscles and leave for 20 minutes before rinsing.

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Aster

Gardening Tips: Prefers well-draining soil and full to partial sun. Blooms in late summer and fall. Attracts butterflies and pollinators.

Precautions: Generally safe, but some people may have mild allergies

Home Remedies: Aster tea helps relieve colds and flu symptoms. Used as a calming herb in baths. Helps reduce inflammation in traditional medicine.

Symbolism: Love, patience, and wisdom. Attracts romance. Burned as incense to enhance psychic abilities.

1. Aster Tea (for respiratory health & inflammation)

Ingredients:

1 tsp dried aster flowers

1 cup hot water

Instructions:

Steep the aster flowers in hot water for 10-15 minutes.

Strain and drink 1-2 times a day to support respiratory health.

2. Aster Poultice (for skin irritation & swelling)

Ingredients:

Fresh aster leaves or flowers

Water

Instructions:

Crush fresh aster leaves or flowers to release juices.

Apply the poultice directly to irritated or swollen areas.

Leave it for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off.

3. Aster Gargle (for sore throat)

Ingredients:

1 tsp dried aster flowers

1 cup warm water

Instructions:

Steep the aster flowers in warm water for 10 minutes.

Strain and use as a gargle to soothe a sore throat.

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Amaranth

Gardening Tips: Grows well in warm climates with full sun. Drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering. Can be grown in containers or garden beds.

Precautions: High oxalate content may cause kidney issues in sensitive individuals. Some species contain saponins, which may cause mild toxicity if consumed in excess.

Home Remedies: Amaranth leaves are rich in vitamins and used in soups for nutrition. Seeds help lower cholesterol and improve digestion. Used as a natural remedy for anemia due to its high iron content. Used in traditional medicine to reduce inflammation. Strengthens hair and skin when used in masks.

Symbolism: Immortality, strength, courage, passion and resilience. Worn as an amulet for strength and good luck. Planted near homes for protection.

1. Amaranth Tea (for digestion & anemia)

Ingredients:

1 tbsp dried amaranth leaves

1 cup hot water

Instructions:

1. Steep leaves in hot water for 10 minutes.

2. Strain and drink 1-2 times a day.

2. Amaranth Hair Rinse (for hair loss & dandruff)

Ingredients:

1 cup fresh amaranth leaves

2 cups water

Instructions:

1. Boil leaves in water for 10 minutes, then cool.

2. Strain and use as a final rinse after shampooing.

3. Amaranth Porridge (for energy & nutrition)

Ingredients:

½ cup amaranth seeds

1 cup water or milk

Instructions:

1. Boil amaranth seeds in water/milk for 15-20 minutes.

2. Stir occasionally until soft.

3. Eat warm, adding honey or fruit if desired.

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Apple

Gardening Tips: Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Requires cross-pollination for fruit production. Prune in winter to encourage healthy growth.

Precautions: Apple seeds contain cyanogenic compounds and should not be consumed.

Home Remedies: Apple blossom tea can aid digestion and reduce stress. Apple fruit is widely used for pastries, marmalades, cupcakes, pies, juices and more. Infused water helps brighten the skin. Used in floral baths for relaxation.

Symbolism: Love, peace, and new beginnings. Used in love spells and charms. Attracts happiness and harmony in relationships.

1. Apple Tea (for digestion & sore throat)

Ingredients:

1 apple (sliced)

1 cup hot water

1 tsp honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Steep apple slices in hot water for 10 minutes.

2. Strain and drink warm, adding honey if desired.

2. Apple Face Mask (for glowing skin & acne)

Ingredients:

½ apple (mashed)

1 tsp honey

Instructions:

1. Mix mashed apple with honey.

2. Apply to face and leave for 15 minutes.

3. Rinse with warm water.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Ingredients:

3-4 apples (or apple scraps: peels, cores)

2 tbsp sugar or honey

2 cups water (filtered, non-chlorinated)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Apples: Chop apples into small pieces (or use peels and cores).

2. Mix with Sugar: Place apples in a clean glass jar, add sugar, and pour water to cover the apples completely.

3. Cover & Ferment: Cover the jar with a cloth or paper towel and secure it with a rubber band. Leave at room temperature (dark place) for 2-3 weeks. Stir daily.

4. Strain the Liquid: After 3 weeks, strain out the apple pieces and discard them. Keep the liquid in the jar.

5. Second Fermentation: Let the liquid sit, covered with a cloth, for another 3-4 weeks to ferment further. Stir occasionally.

6. Check Readiness: When it smells and tastes like vinegar, it’s ready! Store in a sealed bottle.

Storage:

Keep in a glass bottle at room temperature.

It lasts 6-12 months if stored properly.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar Drink (for metabolism & immunity)

Ingredients:

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 cup water

1 tsp honey (optional)

Instructions:

Mix all ingredients and drink once a day.

5. Apple Sauce

Ingredients:

3 apples (peeled & chopped)

½ cup water

1 tbsp sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook apples with water over low heat for 15 minutes.

2. Mash until smooth.

6. Baked Apple

Ingredients:

1 apple (cored)

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp honey

Instructions:

1. Sprinkle cinnamon inside the apple.

2. Drizzle with honey.

3. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes.