#witch tips

[4aceclover]

This also works for gardeners & survivors

(ask me how I know that)

Guide to Drying Herbs

Drying herbs is a simple practice, and there are several methods to choose from depending on the type of herb and your desire use. Here's how I dry my herbs:

1. Drying on Newspaper

This method works well for larger leaves and herbs that don’t need to be hung.

Lay the herbs flat on a clean sheet of newspaper in a single layer.

Place the newspaper in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

Turn the herbs occasionally to ensure even drying.

Once the herbs are dry and crisp to the touch, they’re ready for storage.

2. Hanging Herbs Upside Down

Perfect for longer herbs, like rosemary, lavender or thyme, that can be tied together.

Gather small bunches of herbs and secure them with a cord or string.

Wrap the herbs loosely in a breathable cloth, like cheesecloth or muslin. This helps them air freely while catching any small leaves or flowers that may shed during the drying process.

Hang the bunches upside down in a cool, dry place with good airflow. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can degrade the color and potency.

Once the herbs are completely dry (they should crumble easily), remove the leaves or store them as they are.

I do this with fresh lavender that I put in my closet as shown in the picture.

3. Pressing Herbs

This method is ideal for preserving delicate leaves or flowers for decorative purposes or rituals.

Place the herbs between sheets of paper (such as parchment or regular printer paper).

Insert the paper into a thick book, ensuring the herbs are spread flat and evenly.

Place additional books or a weight on top to press them.

Leave them for 1–2 weeks, checking occasionally for dryness.

4. Drying Small Petals

For small, delicate petals or flowers, a rule bag works wonders.

Place the petals or flowers in a breathable rule bag (such as a mesh or cotton drawstring bag).

Hang the bag in a dry, ventilated area.

Shake the bag gently every few days to prevent clumping and to ensure even drying.

General Tips for Best Results

Use Breathable Cloths: Wrapping your herbs or laying them on a breathable cloth allows air to circulate freely, preventing mold while catching any small leaves or flowers that shed during the drying process.

Timing: Dry herbs as soon as possible after harvesting to retain their potency and fragrance.

Environment: Choose a dry, cool, and ventilated area to prevent mold or mildew.

Labeling: If drying multiple herbs, label them to avoid confusion.

Storage: Once dried, store your herbs in airtight containers away from sunlight and moisture.

Using Dried Herbs

Always check if the plant is safe for use before collecting it. Do not make tea or touch anything with unknown properties. Always clean your plants before drying.

Once your herbs are dried, you can use them for teas, rituals, incense, or other magical and practical purposes. Always remember to respect and honor the plants you've harvested by using them mindfully.

[servantofthefates]

The Power in Witches' Hair

Throughout eras and across cultures, hair is seen as a symbol of strength. In an occult sense, our hair is an extension of our spirit. That is why long beautiful hair is associated with strong inner power. In a material sense, long beautiful hair requires maintenance, which often costs time and money, making it a status symbol. Whichever way you look at it, healthy hair shows power.

Hair as Sacrifice

“Cut three inches of your hair, and make him suffer for three years.” A simple but ancient vengeance spell that even non-witches know about in my community. Of course it only works if you fuel it with fury, and if your hair is actually beautiful. Because to sacrifice means to give up something precious. If your hair is damaged, its power is non-existent, rendering your curse useless.

Hair as a Conduit

“Dry your hair, and dry up someone’s harvest along with it.” As with the first one, this is a simple, well-known curse among traditional families. Different witches use different ancient words to power it, but its main engine is made up of faith and righteous anger. As you dry your hair with a fan, a dryer, or under the sun, imagine your enemy losing their joy and abundance.

Hair as Offering

“Renounce possession of your hair and give it to the Lord." Something Catholic witches do. Take care of their hair as if it is a plant offered to their god. When their hair is healthy, their Father is happy. When it is not, it means they have sinned. There are also others who hide their hair because they see it as a weapon of seduction that they must carry in secret when unneeded. 

Hair as a Declaration

“Witches have long hair. Like our divinities. Like the roots of trees.” Growing up, even before I knew of my family’s true faith, whenever I thought of a witch, I thought of someone with long hair. It was to me a witch’s mark. And now, it is to me a badge of honor. As an adult, in my society, wearing our hair long is an expression of pride in our identity.

[aurorasmagic]

Connecting with nature

Mindful walks Mindful walks isn't about just going for a walk or how often. It is about listening to nature, observe nature, stop, sit down, meditate, look at natures details in plants and rocks and landscape. The more you look the more you find. Nature is amazing that way.

Mindful shopping Yes, mindful shopping. Do you really need it? Is it organic? Is it a brand that tests on animals? Do the brand produce somewhat ethically? (I'm aware most brands are super unethical in all ways, but try find some you can afford that are the least harmful on nature)

Ground in nature Hug a tree, sit on a rock, feel the sun in your face, let the water wash over your feet or hands. Something about being in nature in general and interacting with nature feels refreshing and grounding. Ever tried to say hi to a tree? Hold one of it's branches and bow/curtsy to greet them? Give it a try if you haven't!

Research Research plants and insects around you, learn to identify them and which ones toxic. Research how to forage ethically and thank nature for every harvest.

Garden If you have a garden you can use that to know natures energies, plant some plants you like. Bonus point if they're bee-friendly! As humans it might be a normal thing to dislike insects, but it's so important for our nature. Set up insect hotels, insect friendly drinking station and other (cute) nature friendly decor!

Pick up trash Yes, it is a very boring job. But the nature needs us to do it, and we can't always think "someone else will do it". It's a PERFECT way to honor the nature. Be the one person that matters. Remember to always bring a trash bag and a couple of gloves for the job.

I run a Discord server! Join here if you're interested (Ages 15-30). You can find a bunch of resources in the server, and we're happy to help you by finding more.

[the-neurographic-wizard]

Reblogging for the Spring 2025 Semester!

College Witchcraft

College presents its own set of challenges for all of us. Aside from the usual hurdles involved with classes and coursework and meeting new people, there’s transplanting your witchcraft to deal with. The three biggest problems in that arena are:

Conflicts with roommate(s)

Materials like candles, incense, and blades not allowed in dorms

Lack of available resources

Fortunately, there are ways of dealing with that.

The first and most important thing is dealing with your roommate. If you know the person beforehand, I strongly urge you to sit down with them and have an open and honest discussion about your beliefs and theirs. Put everyone’s cards on the table and see where you both stand. Hopefully, you’ll be able to come to a consensus. If not, see if you’re able to find another roommate, because that’s a fight you don’t want to have to have in your room.

Now, as to the tools of your trade, there are plenty of substitutions you can make that work just as well, even if they aren’t as much fun to use.

Knives/Blades - If it’s a ceremonial blade that you use purely for symbolism, you can make a “knife” with your dominant hand, by holding it up with all four fingers and thumb straight together and rigid. If you’re using it to carve something, pins or toothpicks with do that job. For cutting purposes, substitute a pair of scissors.

Incense & Candles - Depending on your roommate’s sensitivity to certain smells, you could get a reed diffuser for scented oil or a plug-in air freshener. For the light of the candles, you can get battery-powered tealights or decorative electric candles or string lights (available as holiday decorations).

Additionally, if your practice includes burnt or scattered offerings, you can put the materials in a bowl and leave them on your altar space from dawn until dusk or vice versa. Then, take the offering and dispose of it, as appropriate, in one of the following ways:

Into your room trash or an outdoor trash receptacle (for paper, larger items, or uneaten food)

Down the sink drain or toilet (ONLY if liquid or fully water soluble)

Scattered on open ground (ONLY if small non-littering particles like herbs)

Consume it yourself (if food or drink and safe to do so)

Please keep in mind if you choose to scatter an herb offering, DO NOT scatter salt on grass or in a garden, as it will harm the plants and make the soil alkaline and unable to grow anything.

As for raw materials, you can do witchcraft with just about anything, even down to pencil and paper if need be. If you have a green thumb, see if your window will let you have a couple of potted herb plants on the windowsill. If not, check the supermarket spice aisle for readily available herbs and spices. You can also order herbs and materials online, provided that they don’t conflict with your dorm’s rules. Check back on this blog for more tips on cheap and easy witchcraft.

And remember, my askbox is always open over at breelandwalker if you have questions! Happy Crafting, College Witches!

[poeaxtry]

Just your friendly witch out here practicing and doing some spell work

[khajiithaswitchywares]

Go hiking. Fake your death. Become one with the forest. Elevate to forest god. The simple things.

[wizardsaur]

This is your friendly reminder that herbs aren't inherently safe.

Natural doesn't mean Safe.

Lightning is natural. Opium, therefore heroin and opiate drugs are derived from poppies. Cinnamon oil will burn your skin. Lilies are toxic to cats and will cause organ failure. Activated charcoal will neutralize your prescription medications and literally anything else in your system. St. John's Wort will destroy your serotonin production and mess with your happiness threshold if it DOESNT KILL YOU FIRST.

So anyway.

Do some damn good research every time you go to eat, breathe, bring around your pets, bathe in, or smoke something. Be safe please.

[4aceclover]

The final part

but who knows there may be more herbs out there

Herb Correspondences - S-Z

Sage - Used for self-purification and cleansing.  Helps grief and loss. Healing and protection also increase wisdom.   Element Air. 

Sandalwood - Burn during protection, healing, and exorcism spells.  Aids luck and success, meditation and divination. Raises a high spiritual vibration. Element Water. 

Skullcap - Aids in love, fidelity and peace.  Increases harmony. Element Water. 

Sea Salt - Use to cleanse crystals and tools.  For purification, grounding and protection.  Supports ritual work. Absorbs negativity and banishes evil.  Element Earth & Water.  

Sheep's Purse - Prosperity, protection and healing. Element Earth. 

Sheep Sorrel - Carry to protect against heart disease. Cleansing and increases luck.  Use in faery magic. Element Earth. 

St. John's Wort - Worn to prevent colds & fevers.  Induces prophetic and romantic dreams. Protects against hexes and black witchcraft.  Increases happiness. Use in Solar Magic. Element Fire. 

Star Anise - Consecration, purification, and happiness.  Use for curse breaking or increasing luck. Burn to increase psychic awareness.   Element Fire.  

Strawberry Leaf - Attracts success, good fortune, and favorable circumstances. Increases love and aids pregnancy. Element Water. 

Sunflower - Energy, protection, and power.  Aids wisdom and brings about wishes.  Use in fertility magic. Element Fire. 

Sweet Cicely - Use during rituals for the dead or dying.  It helps with divination and the contact of the spirit.  It is sacred to the Goddess’ of death. Element Earth. 

Sweetwood - See Cinnamon.   

Tansy - See Agrimony.  

Tarragon - Increases self-confidence.  Use in Dragon magic. Aids healing after abusive situations.   Element Fire. 

Tea Leaves - Use for courage or strength. In tea for increasing lust. Burn leaves to ensure future riches.  Element Air. 

Thistle - See Blessed Thistle.  

Thyme - Attracts loyalty, affection, and love. Increases good luck and psychic power.  Drink tea to aid sleep. Element Air.  

Valerian - Also called Graveyard dust. Aids sleep is calming and is a sedative.  Quietens emotions. Supports protection and love. Element Water. 

Vervain - Strengthen other herbs. Helps, peace, love and happiness.  Burn the leaves to attract wealth and keep your youth. Increases chastity also.  Element Water. 

Verbena - Psychic protection, peace and purification.  Healing and helps depression. Increases beauty and love.  Mind opening and clearing. Ideal use for exams. Element Earth.  

Violet - See Heart’s Ease.  

White Willow Bark - Use in lunar magic.  Reduces negativity and removes evil forces and hexes.  Used for healing spells. Element Water. 

Willow - Used for lunar magic, drawing or strengthening love, healing, and overcoming sadness.  Element Water. 

Witches Grass - Happiness, lust, love, and exorcism. Reverses hexes.  Element Earth.  

Wood Betony - Use for purification, protection, and the expulsion of evil spirits and nightmares.  Draws love in your direction. Element Fire. 

Woodruff - Victory, protection, and money.  Element Air. 

Wormwood - Used to remove anger, stop war, inhibit violent acts, and for protection. Use in clairvoyance, to summon spirits, or to enhance divinatory abilities. Element Earth. 

Yarrow - Healing, calming and increases love. Used in handfasting & weddings.  Increases psychic power and divination. Gives courage when needed. Element Air. 

[spookysalem13]

Yule Herbs 🌿

[harvestmoss]

 💫 Why Protection Magic Is Useful (even if you have no enemies)

A lot of witches will tell new witches (baby witches) that they should start by learning and using protection magic. However, I've started to see a lot of witches say that protection magic is not as important as other witches claim it to be. Saying that they don't have anyone coming after them or an enemy in real life to warrant a spell of protection.

I think this may also be due to how I've not personally come across anyone really explaining why a witch may want to use protection magic all the time.

Now, it is true that there's no need to be paranoid all the time and have protection up 24/7. But here's a list where you may use it, find it useful, or haven't thought protection magic could be included.

An actual person -- This one is obvious, you have an enemy in real life or on the internet and you need protection magic to protect you from their curses.

A malevolant spirit -- They can come from your windows, mirrors (including tv screens, computer screens, and other reflective surfaces maybe), they seep through floor cracks, hanging onto your coats from outside, etc. Just like how you'd use garden gloves to avoid dirt up your nails being trapped there. Protection magic is just like putting on those gloves.

An energy -- Say you have a neighbour who's arguing with someone. They're yelling and screaming and it can be heard through the apartment walls. That negative energy is seeping into your home and your energy. So it may be worth protecting your home and energy from that sour neighbour's energy. (ever been scolded by your mother and your mood is sour? it's kind of like the same here.)

Your own spell -- Now a self-love spell is probably not something you should protect yourself from. But let's say you're doing a curse. It would be a smart idea to make sure you're protected before beginning such a spell. Much like how you'd wear an apron to protect your clothes from stains when cooking food. You may not always spill your food when cooking, but damn it is it annoying when you do and the stain won't wash off. It's the same with a spell.

Unintentionally -- Sometimes things can happen that's out of our control and it's a good idea to be a little prepared. A black cat suddenly running across the street? Bad luck. Someone got jealous when you told them something good? Evil Eye. Think of it as going to the store with an extra bag for your groceries. You may not need it, but isn't it handy when you at one point do need it?

Protection magic doesn't have to be elaborate or grand or be convoluted. Protection magic is powerful but also extremely simple. All you need is a horseshoe above the door, a little talisman in your pocket, a sigil for your car, etc.

So don't dismiss the importance of protection magic. It may help to improve your spellwork and your energy.

[servantofthefates]

The Perfect Spell Against Bullies

Yes, there is Karma. You can always wait for her to avenge you. But remember, the Universe helps those who help themselves too. Just be certain in your heart of hearts that balance is something you are restoring, not destroying.

STEP 1: Capture your pain.

When a stranger or someone you know has maliciously hurt you, in real life or online, write down on a piece of paper what they did or said:

He desecrated my altar. “Take down your ugly selfie.” She plays loud music just to spite me. “That dress looks so cheap.” They insulted me and my family.

Use a pencil and natural paper – anything uncoated by polymer.

STEP 2: Report the crime.

Day or night, whenever you feel the peak of your anger, frustration, self-pity or fear about what your bully did or said, go to a room with a mirror inside. A washroom… your bedroom… as long as you are alone.

Mirrors are portals to other realms. So hold the paper up to it, allowing those nearby to read about the crime.

STEP 3: Request punishment.

Speak:

Diabolus Ligat, Angelus Solvit

These words call upon the dark and the light forces of the world, so that together, they may weigh the perfect punishment for the one who hurt you.

Say the words to the mirror as many times as you like… as long as it takes for you to feel heard.

You should feel a gust of wind, or hear a creak, or smell a strange scent, confirming that your request has been received. Once you do, sincerely say thank you.

STEP 4: Throw it away.

Get rid of the paper, as if you are throwing away a receipt. An act of faith.

Then wait.

Together, a demon and an angel – labels most of us know them by – will fully investigate your case. They may decide to punish your bully not just for this but for all their past crimes. I know for a fact that this humble spell was used in the late 90s against a now-famous serial bully. He ended up in jail for years and for a crime he did not commit. In other words, the ones who heard the appeal used the law to bully him back.

So you may be surprised by the punishment. But trust that it is fair and honest.

[clowncarbrain]

One thing I sometimes like to do is use my finger and draw a sigil for courage, energy, focus, etc on my hand when needing a quick boost and don’t have time to pause

From my personal experience, making your own sigils works best. There’s soooooo many different ways people do it, and I advise researching to find which method resonates with you!

And don’t worry if your sigils aren’t as fancy and artistic as the ones you see posted, mine aren’t either. It’s about what works, not what looks pretty and aesthetic (although if yours looks pretty and aesthetic, that’s super cool)

Find what works for your craft, but sigils are definitely a good, simple thing to look into and easy to incorporate into your practice. Highly recommend

Understanding the 3 Types of Sigils

Sigils are one of the most versatile tools in witchcraft, acting as symbols infused with your intention and energy. What makes sigils so effective is their adaptability, you can choose how to work with them based on your goals and needs. When deciding how to use a sigil, it’s helpful to understand the three main types: destructible, temporary, and permanent. Each type serves a unique purpose and adds a layer of magickal flexibility to your practice. 

Destructible Sigils 🕯 

Definition: These sigils are created with the intention of being destroyed, often as part of the activation process. 

Purpose: Used for immediate, transformative, or highly specific goals. The act of destruction releases the energy. 

Examples of Use:  

⟡ Burn a sigil for quick manifestation. 

⟡ Bury a sigil to symbolize letting go of something. 

How-To: Draw the sigil on paper, charge it with your intent, and destroy it by burning, tearing, or submerging it in water. 

Tip: This method is great for goals where you want to release energy into the universe quickly. 

Temporary Sigils ✿ 

Definition: These sigils exist for a short time and are erased, washed away, or allowed to fade naturally. 

Purpose: Ideal for ongoing but temporary needs, like a daily boost of confidence or protection during a specific event. 

Examples of Use:  

⟡ Draw a sigil on your skin with makeup or henna. 

⟡ Sketch a sigil in sand or dirt before a ritual. 

⟡ Write a sigil in chalk on your door for short-term protection. 

How-To: Use materials that naturally wear off (chalk, marker, or skin-safe paint). Focus on charging the sigil when you draw it. 

Tip: These sigils are perfect for quick and discreet magick, as they’re easy to create and remove. 

Permanent Sigils 𓃠 

Definition: These sigils are created with the intention of lasting indefinitely. They are charged to continuously radiate energy over time. 

Purpose: Used for long-term goals or intentions, such as protection, abundance, or anchoring a space with positive energy. 

Examples of Use:  

⟡ Draw a sigil onto a piece of jewelry or altar tool. 

⟡ Paint or carve a sigil on a doorframe for home protection. 

How-To: Choose a durable medium (wood, stone, metal) Ensure the sigil is charged and activated with care. 

Tip: Permanent sigils require deep thought and a strong intention, as their energy is meant to be constant and enduring. 

 ⛥ No matter which type of sigil you choose, remember that their power comes from the energy and intention you infuse into them. Whether you’re releasing energy through destruction, working with short-term goals, or embedding your magick into something permanent, sigils can adapt to your needs and bring your intentions to life. ⛥ 

If you’re looking for more in-depth content check out my Patreon 🌙🖤 

https://www.patreon.com/posts/easy-way-to-salt-116545319?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

Have you worked with sigils before? I’d love to hear about your experiences or any questions you might have. Feel free to share your thoughts or favorite sigil practices in the comments! ฅᨐฅ

[nordseehexe]

[elenilag]

The Secret Craft: A Guide to Practicing Witchcraft in Secret

Sometimes, the circumstances of your home or life require you to practice your craft discreetly. Whether it’s due to family, roommates, or cultural expectations, here’s how you can honor your path without drawing unwanted attention.

Your craft is personal, and discretion doesn’t diminish its power. Focus on your intentions and adapt your practices to fit your circumstances. The magic lies in your belief and creativity, not in how overt your tools or rituals are.

Hidden Altars:

Use a small box, drawer, or shelf to create an altar that can easily be concealed.

Everyday items can double as altar tools (e.g., a cup as a chalice, a scarf as an altar cloth).

Replace obvious witchy items with common household objects.

Subtle Spell Work:

Tie knots in a ribbon or string while focusing on your intention. Keep it tucked away or wear it as a bracelet.

Draw sigils with water on windows or mirrors, letting them evaporate invisibly.

Witchcraft in the Bathroom:

Simple showers and baths can become rituals.

Most activities, like using candles, oils, or salt, can be mistaken for self-care.

Steam, water, and mirrors amplify magic while blending seamlessly into everyday routines.

Privacy is inherent in the bathroom, offering uninterrupted time for focus and intention-setting.

Store your magical items (herbs, oils, salts) with your toiletries to avoid suspicion. Label them in ways that make sense to you but seem mundane to others (e.g., “Lavender Relaxation Blend”).

Discreet Spell Ingredients:

Use spice jars, tea tins, or food-safe containers for herbs and salts. They’ll look like regular kitchen supplies.

Arrange your ingredients alongside regular cooking items.

Store them in the back of the drawer or cabinet where they’re less likely to be noticed.

Use labels that don’t raise suspicion.

Hidden Grimoire:

Keep your Book of Shadows in a journal that appears like a commonplace notebook or diary.

Hidden Symbols:

Wear jewelry with discreet symbols, like a pentacle hidden in a locket or a moon charm.

Incorporate sigils into your artwork, sewing, or other crafts.

Silent Outdoor Connection:

Take walks to connect with nature. Collect stones, feathers, or plants discreetly.

Practice grounding or meditation during your walk.

Inner Sky Magic:

Practice moon phases and star magic by observing the night sky. Journal your intentions or align them with celestial events.

Cook with Intention:

Infuse your food with spells by focusing on your intent while preparing meals. Use spices and herbs for their magical properties.

Stir blessings into soups, teas, or baked goods.

Tea and Coffee Magic:

Use tea blends for specific intentions (e.g., chamomile for calm, mint for focus).

Draw a sigil on your cup with honey or sugar before stirring.

Meditation and Visualization:

Practice energy work through meditation, breathwork, and visualizing protective light or intentions.

Use your mind as your ritual space when physical tools aren’t an option.

Candle-Free Rituals:

Use LED candles or focus on a flame visualization to replace traditional candles.

Password Protected Digital Magic:

Create a digital Grimoire.

Keep your spells and notes on a password-protected app or document.

Use aesthetic Pinterest boards or private folders to store inspiration and resources.

Music with Headphones:

Listen to playlists that align with your intentions.

Subtly Ward Your Space:

Sprinkle a pinch of salt by doors and windows while cleaning.

Place a small container of protective herbs or stones in inconspicuous places like a drawer or cabinet.

Secret Personal Wards:

Wear protective jewelry with crystals or carry small charms and stones in your pocket.

Anoint yourself with an essential oil blend for protection.

[fluidity-stupidity]

Beginner Witch Things to Research

So many older - more experienced - witches tell beginner - baby - witches to start with researching things like protection spells, grounding, cleansing and warding but what do you research afterward? These are just a few things that I would recommend every individual to research, regardless of how experienced you may think you are.

Carl Jung's Map of the Soul This is where the archetypes stem from, a what a lot of witches dread doing - Shadow Work. Shadow Work is uncovering not just traumatic ventures of our pasts but also revealing what made and makes us who we are today. Studying where it all started makes working through your own shadow a lot less stressful and a lot hammering on the soul, it also leads to a lot less martyrdom in the spiritual community.

Honing in on your psychic abilities and Intuition Gaining the ability is easy, everyone has these abilities, you just have to work to get them to where you want them to be. Remember a spiritual practice is still a practice, you have to put in the effort to get better, just as you would a physical sport or an instrument.

Egregores and Amalgamations vs. Deitys vs. Pop Culture Deitys Egregores and amalgamations exist solely in the astral plane and can (and will) mimic, imitate, and parody deities. Being able to decern these, especially with your intuition will always provide useful. Learning that Lucifer from Dantes' Inferno is reaching out to you versus aspected, epithetic source Lucifer will give you a much better relationship and outcome in your practice.

Deity Work vs. Deity Worship Offering play a key role when learning to decern these from each other. You can in fact, do both, but be warned deities get jealous of each other.

Find what you love and surround yourself with it Incorporating things that you love into your practice and not actually doing what you love about your practice is one of the key differences I saw in my practice when I learned how to differentiate them. I found incoporating pop culture media into my practice made me get burnout from both that piece of pop culture and my spiritual practices.

Finding a form of divination that you are most comfortable with Everyone likes using cartomancy, divination using cards or pieces of paper, is the most common form of divination, but learning your favorite form of divination will help avoid burnout and creating tension for yourself in your practice.