#properties

One of the most beloved flowers in China (and elsewhere) this small tree was planted here in the SCIence garden to represent the Chinese UK group. It is in bloom from late winter and the bright pink flowers have a strong perfume. It is growing in the centre at the back of the main area of the garden.

There are 309 accepted species in the genus Prunus listed on the Plants of the World Online database (plantsoftheworldonline.org). The genus is distributed mainly across the Northern temperate zones but there are some tropical species.

The genus Prunus is generally defined based on a combination of characteristics which include: a solitary carpel (the structure enclosing the ovules – a combination of the ovary, style and stigma) with a terminal style, a fleshy drupe (fruit), five sepals and five petals and solid branch pith. The drupe contains a single, relatively large, hard coated seed (stone) – familiar to us in cherries, apricots, nectarines, peaches etc

This particular species, Prunus mume, originates from southern China in the area around the Yangtze River. The ‘Beni-chidori’ cultivar has been given an Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society.

Over 300 different cultivars of this species have been recorded in China, perhaps not surprisingly for a plant that has been domesticated for thousands of years due to its floral beauty. A recent study on the genetic architecture of floral traits across the cultivars of this species was published in Nature Communications.¹

Prunus mume was introduced from China into Japan, Korea, Taiwan and Vietnam and it is now fully integrated into the cuisines of all these countries. In addition to its uses in many foodstuffs and drinks, extracts from the fruit are also widely used in traditional Chinese medicine and in the traditional medicines in Korea and Japan. Anti-bacterial, anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties have all been ascribed to the extract which has been used to treat tiredness, headaches, constipation and stomach disorders amongst other things. A recent review published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology² gathers together information from literature reports on the anti-cancer activity of Prunus mume fruit extract.

One standardised extract in particular (MK615) has shown antitumour activity against most common cancer types.

The anti-cancer activity has not been ascribed to a particular component. Compounds isolated from the extract include ursolic acid, amygdalin, prunasin, chlorogenic acid, mumefural and syringaresinol.

Like all the plants in the SCIence garden – there’s a lot more to this one than just its ornamental beauty.

References

1.  Zhang, Q., Zhang, H., Sun, L. et al. The genetic architecture of floral traits in the woody plant Prunus mume. Nat Commun 9, 1702 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-018-04093-z

2.  Bailly, C. Anti-cancer properties of Prunus mume extracts. J Ethnopharmacology 246,2020, 112215. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2019.112215

Written by Alison Foster: Botanical Horticulturist and Science Communicator

Specific Areas of Healing

The following will address certain areas of healing and the best scents and oils to help you. This being said these are ASSISTS, if you are suffering from a condition these may help but you should never neglect professional medication prescribed by doctors. For a good portion of my life I’ve suffered from Insomnia, lavender and citrus oils helped for awhile but as time grew on and my condition got worse I had to get prescribed Melatonin. It never makes you less of a witch to use prescribed or un-prescribed medication.

“When you start working with essential oils to address health issues, begin with just one symptom or issue you would like to heal. Focusing on that, limit your selection to only a few essential oils. Once you have all the basics down, you can create your own wonderful oil blends and also determine which are best used as perfumes, in bath salts, or added to melted candle wax at the base of a candle (never add while the candle is lit).” - The Good Witch’s Guide by Shawn Robbins and Charity Bedell

Stress

Several essential oils can be effective for relieving stress. Stress often has side effects, including anxiety, upset stomach, and rapid breathing. One essential oil that works well on stress and anxiety is peppermint. It relaxes the mind and body and helps with digestion. Lavender is another good choice, as it relaxes muscles and the vapors can help regulate breathing.

Pain and Muscle Tension

Muscle tension is something many of us deal with. When using essential oils for pain relief from muscle tension, the best approach is to create a massage oil to rub into the affected area. If you are trying to relax muscles and ease pain, allspice is an excellent choice. Geranium essential oil is a good alternative - it reduces inflammation and muscle tension and provides stress relief.

Chest Congestion

The common cold, the flu, and seasonal allergies can all result in chest congestion, so this ailment can happen at any time of year. To use essential oils to relieve chest congestion, apply a few drops of diluted oil across the chest and massage them into the skin. The best oil for congestion relief is eucalyptus oil, which can break up congestion from coughs, colds, flu and allergies and helps restore proper breathing. Thyme oil is another excellent choice for relieving congestion.

Concentration and Focus

Everyone sometimes has difficulties with concentration and focus. This can result from a lack of sleep, stress, anxiety, depression, or a reaction to life events. To use essential oils for help with focus and concentration, apply a few drops to the temples, middle of the forehead, and base of the neck. Rosemary is an excellent oil when you need to focus intently or commit things to memory. Spearmint helps relax and calm the mind, which promotes mental clarity.

Fatigue

Many people feel exhausted at the end of the day even if they think they’re getting enough sleep. The best way to use essential oils for issues related to energy and fatigue is to apply a few drops to your wrists and rub them in. Lemon or lime oil work great here. Both of them uplift mood, relieve fatigue, and provide mental clarity and focus. Lemon also helps balance the nervous system.

Insomnia

Many people just can’t seem to fall asleep. Apply a few drops of essential oil to your forehead and at the base of the neck and see if the soothing scents relax your mind and body. Lemon balm is an excellent oil for this, as it addresses anxiety and stress and promotes restful sleep. Ylang-ylang oil can also help you sleep, and it relieves muscle pain that may be getting in the way of a good night’s sleep.

Anxiety

This is a horrible issue that involves the physical and mental body. Physical symptoms many include anxiety or panic attacks, asthma attacks, feelings of paralysis, and tremors. Nonphysical symptoms many include clouded thoughts, racing mind, feelings of confusion, and a sense of being disconnected. To treat anxiety with essential oils, apply one drop each to the forehead, base of the neck, wrists, and along the collarbone or upper chest. Chamomile, lavender, and lemon balm are excellent oils for relieving anxiety and relaxing the body.

Crafting Your Own Oil Blends

“The thing to remember about essential oils is that a little goes a long way. They are concentrated forms of the essence of plants, so you need very little to accomplish much. Less is more! One undiluted bottle of an essential oil should allow you to create several blends and treatments. 

You don't need much in the way of supplies to make your own essential oil blends. You need a mason jar with a lid, a carrier oil, and essential oils. Vitamin E oil can also be added to many blends as a stabilizer and preservative. If you do not have all the essential oils for a particular remedy, you can substitute herbs. When making oil blends with essential herbs and oils, additional supplies you will need include a scale, herbs, a grinder, and cheesecloth.

As before, when you are making your essential oils, use 1/8 cups (30ml) of carrier oil to 10 drops of essential oil. When adding herbs, use ½ a cup (120ml) of carrier oil instead of the 1/8 cups. The additional oil is there to absorb the scent and natural oils of the dried herbs.

Making oil blends is fairly simple. Start by cleaning your mason jar inside and out. If using, put the weighed and ground herbal ingredients into the jar. Add half the carrier oil. Next, add the essential oils. Add the remaining carrier oil. Cover the jar with a lid, shake the jar twice daily. After four weeks, strain a small portion of the oil into a small glass to test the scent. If it has the aroma you were trying for, transfer the strained test oil into a new mason jar, and then strain the rest of the oil into the new jar. If it’s not as strong as you would like, return the strained portion of the oil to the original jar. Add a few more drops of each essential oil. Shake twice daily. Wait two more weeks, and repeat the strain test.

WARNING: This post addresses Aromatherapy as a healing assistant, you cannot compromise vaccines with scents.

Today we will be looking at Aromatherapy and the magick of scents.

“The sense of smell is arguably the most underestimated sense we have, as it can actually be one of our most powerful healing allies. Aromas can trigger pleasant memories - from the smell of cookies baking in the oven to the scent of a loved one’s perfume to the fragrance of a flower - as well as unpleasant reminiscences. Aromatherapy is the art of using the power of scent to heal the body, mind, and spirit.

Aromatherapy and the use of scent in healing rituals, magick, and spirituality is not a new thing. Humans have always enjoyed the scent of flowers and have long observed the different effects plant odors have on the human mind and body. In the ancient world, the use of the aromatic properties of herbs in healing, magick, and ritual was well known. The ancients understood the connection between the mind and body in health, happiness, and well-being. The ancient Egyptians honored their gods using a variety of incenses and oils, the preparations of which were very ritualized and held deep spiritual meaning. Native American peoples used herbs for spiritual purposes as well as for healing and health. Many cultures still use fragrant herbs in healing rituals and to honor the dead, the spirits of nature, and the divine.

Today, the practice of aromatherapy is once again widespread, and the use of scented candles, bath salts, and potpourris have become particularly popular. Health-food stores carry lines of essential oils and oil blends. Even department stores carry synthetic oils and scented candles. Aromatherapy is accessible to everyone, and it is an effective and simple way to make positive changes to your health in mind, body, and spirit” -The Good Witch’s Guide by Shawn Robbins and Charity Bedell

Essential Oils

The simplest way to work with aromatherapy is by using individual essential oils. The oils are unique, and many of them have multiple uses. By learning the different uses of essential oil, you can focus your work on the oils that have the most beneficial effect on your health. While working with individual essential oils, you will discover that some are too strong for you, and others may even produce a negative reaction.

Essential Oil Associations;

• Allspice- Reduces stress, calms, relaxes tight muscles, uplifts mood, improves digestion, naturally disinfects
• Basil- Calms, relieves pain, relieves fatigue, improves mental clarity, purifies the body
• Cardamom - Relieves pain, uplifts mood, improves digestion, improves mental clarity and memory
• Catnip- Anti-dirrheal, relieves indigestion, relieves anxiety, uplifts mood
• Chamomile- Reduces anxiety, promotes restful sleep and relaxation, relieves pain
• Cinnamon- Relieves pain, uplifts mood, relieves fatigue, naturally disinfects, improves digestion, increases appetite
• Clove- Relieves pain, uplifts mood, improves mental clarity, improves digestion, naturally disinfects
• Coriander- Relieves pain, relieves fatigue, improves digestion, improves mental clarity and memory
• Eucalyptus- Breaks up congestion, relieves pain, naturally disinfects, vapors help with breathing
• Frankincense- Anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, diuretic, improves digestion, expectorant, sedative
• Geranium- Relieves stress and tension, uplifts mood, anti-inflammatory, soothes itchy skin
• Ginger- Relieves pain, uplifts mood, relieves fatigue, improves digestion, increases appetite
• Juniper Berries - Relieve pain, energize, improve mental clarity and memory, anti-inflammatory, repel insects, soothe insect bites
• Lavender- Relieves stress and anxiety, promotes restful sleep, uplifts mood, balances mood swings, vapors help with breathing, improves digestion, naturally disinfects, breaks up congestion
• Lemon- Balances the nervous system, uplifts mood, relieves fatigue, improves mental clarity and memory, naturally disinfects
• Lemon Balm - Relieves anxiety and stress, promotes restful sleep
• Lemongrass- Calms, balances nervous system, uplifts mood, anti-inflammatory, vapors help with breathing, improves digestion, naturally disinfects, repels insects
• Lime- Relieves fatigue, uplifts mood, naturally disinfects, improves mental clarity and memory
• Mandarin- Reduces stress and tension, calms, uplifts mood
• Myrrh- Helpful in meditation, uplifts mood, anti-inflammatory, aids in healing skin
• Neroli and Orange Blossom (both come from blossoms of the bitter orange tree) - Remove nervous tension, promotes restful sleep
• Nutmeg- Relaxes tight muscles, relieves pain, improves digestion
• Palmarosa(a lemon grass genus) - Relaxes tight muscles, relieves pain, uplifts mood, helps regenerate skin, anti-inflammatory
• Peppermint- Relieves pain, uplifts mood, relieves fatigue, breaks up congestion, anti-inflammatory, vapors help with breathing, improves digestion, increases appetite, soothes itchy skin, improves mental clarity and memory
• Petitgrain(from leaves and twigs of the bitter orange tree) - Reduces anxiety and stress, promotes restful sleep, uplifts mood, improves mental clarity and memory
• Pine- Lessens pain, uplifts mood, relieves fatigue, breaks up congestion, naturally disinfects, improves mental clarity and memory
• Rose- Relieves pain, uplifts mood, anti-inflammatory, aids in healing skin
• Rosemary- Relieves pain, stimulates nerves, relieves fatigue, vapors help with breathing, improves digestion, improves mental clarity and memory, naturally disinfects, repels insects
• Spearmint- Relieves pain, uplifts mood, relieves fatigue, breaks up congestion, anti-inflammatory, vapors help with breathing, improves digestion, improves appetite, improves mental clarity and memory, soothes itchy skin
• Tea Tree - Relieves pain, naturally disinfects, aids in healing skin, vapors help with breathing
• Thyme- Relaxes tight muscles, relieves pain, uplifts mood, breaks up congestion, anti-inflammatory, improves digestion, increases appetite, improves mental clarity and memory, naturally disinfects
• Ylang-Ylang- Relaxes tight muscles, relieves pain, promotes restful sleep, uplifts mood, naturally disinfects

Other Associations for Incenses

• African Violet - Burned for protection and to promote spirituality within the home
• Amber Love - Comfort, happiness and healing
• Ambergris- Dreams, aphrodisiac
• Angelica- Protection, harmony, integration, insight, understanding, stability and meditation
• Anise- Emotional balance
• Allspice- Money, passion, swift moving or urgent matters
• Apple Blossom -Happiness, love and friendship
• Basil- Fidelity, prosperity, protection, fear of flying, concentration, assertiveness, decisiveness, trust, integrity, enthusiasm, mental clarity, cheerfulness, confidence, love, good luck, sympathy, wealth, cleansing bad influences, harmony
• Bay - facilitate psychic powers, promote prophetic dreams
• Bayberry- Protection, prosperity, happiness, control and attract money
• Benzoin- Astral projection, purification, clears negative energy, emotional balance, eases sadness, depression, weariness, grief, anger and anxiety
• Bergamot- Money, prosperity, uplifting of spirits, joy, protection, concentration, alertness, confidence, balance, strength, courage, motivation and assertiveness
• Blue Berry - Keeping unwanted influences away from your home and property
• Cardamom- Mental clarity, concentration, confidence, courage, enthusiasm and motivation
• Carnation- Protection, strength, healing, love and lust, traditionally used for healing
• Cedar/Cedarwood- Purification, stimulate and strengthen psychic powers, attract love, prevent nightmares, healing, purification, protection, money, balance, grounding, clarity, insight and wisdom
• Chamomile- Healing, babies, children, animals, reversing bad luck, attracts money, helpful in family matters, harmony, peace, calm, spiritual, inner peace
  
• Cherry- Attract and stimulate love
• Cinnamon- Stimulation, wealth, prosperity, business success, strength, lust, healing, attract money, stimulate healing powers, passion, regaining lost memory, psychic awareness
• Citron- Healing rituals and strengthening psychic powers
• Citronella- Cleansing, warding off, healing 
• Clove- Pain relief, intellectual stimulation, business success, wealth, prosperity, divination, exorcism, protection, eases fear, improves memory and focus
• Coconut- Protection and purification
• Copal - Love, purification, uplifting spirits, protection, spirituality, attract love
• Cypress- Strength, comfort, healing, eases anxiety and stress, self-assurance, confidence, physical vitality, willpower and concentration
• Damiana- Facilitate psychic visions
• Dittany of Crete - Astral projection and divination
• Dragon’s Blood - Protection, purification, courage, dispel negativity, attract love, enhance psychic awareness, fierce, anti-curse, male potency
• Elecampane- Strengthens clairvoyant powers and scrying abilities
• Eucalyptus- Healing, purification, protection
• Frankincense- Spirituality, astral strength, protection, consecration courage, dispel negativity, aid meditation, induce psychic visions, good luck, wealth, joy, travel
• Frangipani- Friendship, love, home
• Fennel - Travel, house sales, moves, banish harm
• Gardenia- Peace, love, healing
• Ginger- Wealth, lust and love
• Hyssop- Love commitment, healing, spirituality, protection, cleansing artifacts
• Hibiscus- Divination, love and lust to attract love
• Honeysuckle- Money, happiness, friendship, healing, good health, luck, psychic power
• Hyacinth- Happiness and protection
• Jasmine- Love, money, dreams, purification, wisdom, skills, astral projection, attract love, attract money, general luck, luck in love
• Juniper- Calming, protection, healing, increase psychic powers, break curses and hexes, purifies homes, male potency
• Lavender - Cleansing, healing, love, happiness, relaxation, sleep and rest, attract love
• Lemon and Lemongrass - Repels spite/malice and gossip, helps psychic awareness and travel, mental clarity, healing, love, purification
• Lemon Verbena - Breaking bad luck, protection against negativity, protection from evil eye
• Lilac- Soothing, increases psychic powers, attracts harmony
• Lotus- Elevates mood, protection, spirituality, healing, meditation for inner peace and outer harmony, opening the third eye
• Mace- Stimulates and increases psychic powers
• Mint and Peppermint - Increases sexual desire, attracts money, energy, mental stimulant, healing, drives away negativity, success
• Musk - Aphrodisiac, prosperity, courage, creates a sensual atmosphere, courage and vitality, heightens sensual passion
• Myrrh- Spirituality, meditation, healing, concentration, ancient incense for protection, healing, purification and spirituality, peace, overcoming grief
• Myrtle- Lasting marriage, mature love, domestic happiness, property and security
• Nutmeg- Aids meditation, increases psychic powers and attracts prosperity
• Oakmoss - Attracts money
• Orange- Divination, love, luck, money
• Patchouli- Money, growth, love, mastery, sensuality, attracts money and love, promotes fertility.
• Passionflower- Peace of mind, soothes sleeplessness
• Pine- Grounding, strength, cleansing, healing, attracts money, drives away harm from home and family, guarding properties, immortality
• Poppy Seeds - Promotes female fertility, attracts love, good luck, money
• Rose- Love, house blessing, fertility, healing, courage, induce prophetic dreams, attract love, return calmness
• Rosemary- Remembrance, memory, energy, healing to purify, prevent nightmares, preserve youthfulness, dispel depression, learning, love, fidelity, prosperity
• Rue- Helps restore health
• Sage- Wisdom, clarity, purification, longevity, good health, examinations, interviews, tests, protection of home and family
• Sandalwood- Spirituality, healing, protection, astral projection, heal, protect, purification, spiritual awareness, leadership, justice, compensation, sexuality
• Strawberry- Love, luck, friendship
• Sweet Pea - Friendship, love, courage
• Tangerine- Attracts prosperity
• Tarragon- Courage, anti-bullying, shedding of old burdens like guilt, fears and destructive relationships
• Thyme- Psychic cleansing of land and possessions, health, memories of past worlds/lives, drives away night terrors
• Vanilla- Lust, mental alertness, stimulate amorous appetites, enhance memory, calming, soothing, vitalizes energy, happy and healthy environments, good fortune
• Vetivert - Money, peace, love, breaking bad luck, protection from theft and negativity
• Violet- Wisdom, luck, love, protection, healing
• Yarrow- Courage
• Ylang-Ylang- Love, harmony, euphoria

Today we will be looking at Vesuvianite/Idocrase

Vesuvianite Associations

• Zodiac- Sagittarius, Capricorn
• Element- Earth
• Typical colour - Green, brown, yellow, rarely blue or red
• Origin- Mt Vesuvius, Italy

Meanings- Higher self, inner security

Vesuvianite brings us closer to the higher realms and provides an easier link to our sense of higher self. It facilitates the seeing and the understanding of things on this earth that have no substance. Psychologically, Vesuvianite (Idocrase) releases feelings of imprisonment and restraint, dissolves anger and alleviates fear and negativity. It helps to create a sense of inner security, opens the mind and stimulates inventiveness and the urge to discover, linking into creativity. Vesuvianite banishes depression and clears negative thought patterns so that the mind can function more clearly.

Physically, Vesuvianite (Idocrase) strengthens the tooth enamel and restores the sense of smell. It also assists in assimilating nutrients from food.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

Today we will be looking Variscite

Variscite Associations

• Zodiac - Scorpio, Taurus, Gemini
• Typical color - ranges from pale to emerald green

Meanings- Moral Courage, virtue, self-reliance, success, calming, soothing

Variscite calms and soothes the mind, therefore being a good stone for meditation. It helps you to think clearly and increases perception. It encourages self-expression and the communication of ideas. Variscite provides hope and courage, being extremely helpful in supporting invalids and their caregivers to continue to deal with the dis-ease that illness can create. It stimulates the heart chakra, bringing unconditional love and understanding to all situations.

Variscite helps with past-life exploration and memory. It works on an astral and etheric level for healing via the Central Nervous System and at DNA level.

Variscite, treats abdominal distension and is helpful for blood flow problems. It relieves cramps and regenerates elasticity of veins and skin. Variscite heals the nervous system. It helps disorders of the male reproductive system, including impotence.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

Today we will be looking at Unakite

Unakite Associations

• Chakras- Heart Chakra
• Zodiac - Scorpio
• Planet- Mars & Venus
• Element- Fire & Water
• Typical colours - shades of green and pink: mottled

Meanings- Balances physical emotions, grounding

Unakite is a stone of vision. It balances emotions with spirituality. Unakite provides grounding when needed. It facilitates re-birthing, gently releasing conditions that inhibit spiritual and psychological growth.

Unakite supports convalescence and recovery from major illness. It treats the reproductive system and stimulates healthy pregnancies while facilitating the health of the unborn. Unakite enhances weight gain, where required and aids the growth of skin tissue and hair.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

Today we will be looking at Turquoise

Turquoise Associations

• Chakras- Heart Chakra, Throat Chakra, Third Eye Chakra
• Birthstone- December (Blue Turquoise)
• Zodiac- Scorpio, Sagittarius, Aquarius, Pisces
• Planet- Venus & Neptune
• Element- Earth/Air/Fire
• Typical colours - turquoise, blue, green, yellow-green

Meanings- Purification, serenity, protection, wisdom, balance, strength, friendship, love, positive thinking, sensitivity

Turquoise is a purification stone. It dispels negative energy and can be worn to protect against outside influences or pollutants in the atmosphere. Turquoise balances and aligns all the chakras, stabilizing mood swings and instilling inner calm. It is excellent for depression and exhaustion, it also has the power to prevent panic attacks. Turquoise promotes self-realization and assists creative problem solving. It is a symbol of friendship, and stimulates romantic love.

Turquoise aids in the absorption of nutrients, enhances the immune system, stimulates the regeneration of tissue, and heals the whole body. It contains anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects, and alleviates cramps and pain. Turquoise purifies lungs, soothes and clears sore throats, and heals the eyes, including cataracts. It neutralizes over acidity, benefits rheumatism, gout, stomach problems, and viral infections.

Different Types

• Yellow Turquoise. Yellow Turquoise is formed by the inclusion of iron. Yellow Turquoise helps to connect with spirit and brings the energy of the sky down to earth.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

Today we will be looking at Tourmaline Quartz

Tourmaline Quartz Associations

• Chakras - Third Eye Chakra
• Zodiac- Capricorn
• Element- Earth
• Typical colours - Clear with needle-like crystals of Black Tourmaline.

Meanings- Balances opposites, grounding

Tourmaline Quartz combines the properties of Tourmaline and Clear Quartz Crystal. Tourmaline purifies ones own energies and protects from negativity, while Quartz amplifies energies focused through it. This combination makes Tourmaline Quartz a powerful shield-stone that, depending on the desired intent of the wearer, can amplify and return negative energy, like a mirror spell, or can convert the negative energy into positive energy for the wearer.

An effective grounding stone, Tourmaline Quartz strengthens the body’s energy field against external invasion and deflects detrimental environmental influences. It is often seen as a symbol of unity and is an effective problem solver. It eliminates crystallized patterns which are, or may have been, destructive in ones own life and releases tensions at any level. Its liberating power against negative energy can be used to assist us to actualize the strength needed to alleviate negative or hostile relationships and situations. Tourmaline Quartz balances yin/yang energies. It harmonizes disparate and opposite elements and polarities, and turns negative thoughts and energies into positive ones. Psychologically, it helps to integrate and heal the shadow energies, alleviating self-sabotage. It harmonizes the meridians, the subtle bodies, and the chakras.

Tourmaline Quartz detoxifies the entire body and is used to treat disorders of the digestive tract.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

Today we will be looking at Tourmaline

Tourmaline Associations

• Chakras- (depending on color)
• Zodiac- Virgo, Libra
• Typicalcolours - Most commonly black, but can range from brown, violet, green, pink, or in a dual-colored pink and green (watermelon).

Meanings- Flexibility, happiness, objectivity, compassion, serenity, balance, positive transformation, healing, strength, tolerance, understanding

Tourmaline aids in understanding oneself and others. It promotes self-confidence and diminishes fear. Tourmaline attracts inspiration, compassion, tolerance and prosperity. It balances the right-left sides of the brain. Helps treat paranoia, overcomes dyslexia and improves hand-eye coordination. Tourmaline releases tension, making it helpful for spinal adjustments. It balances male-female energy within the body. Enhances energy and removes blockages.

Different Types

• Black Tourmaline, also known as Schorl. Base Chakra, Capricorn, Earth Element. Black Tourmaline can be used to both repel and protect against negativity. It is excellent for deflecting radiation energy. It enhances ones physical well being by providing an increase in physical vitality, emotional stability, and intellectual acuity.
• Blue Tourmaline, also known as Indicolite. Throat Chakra, Libra and Taurus, Saturn, Water Element.
• Brown Tourmaline, also known as Dravide, or Dravite. Aries. Brown Tourmaline is used to clear and protect the aura. It clears and opens the earth chakra, (which is located approximately 12 to 18 inches below the soles of the feet - it is not within the actual physical body but is part of the etheric body), grounding you to the earth. It assists in healing dysfunctional family relationships, and helps the user feel comfortable in social groups. Can be used to to treat intestinal disorders and skin issues.
• Green Tourmaline. Heart Chakra, Capricorn, Mercury, Earth Element.
• Pink Tourmaline, also known as Rubellite. Heart Chakra, October Birthstone.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

Today we will be looking at Topaz

Topaz Associations

• Chakras- Sacral Chakra, Solar Plexus Chakra
• Zodiac- Leo, Scorpio, Sagittarius
• Element- Air
• Typical colours - Colorless, blue, brown, orange, grey, yellow, green, red - pink.

Meanings- Communication, love, good fortune, good health, attraction

Topaz soothes, heals, stimulates, recharges, re-motivates and aligns the meridians of the body – directing energy to where it is needed most. It promotes truth and forgiveness. Topaz brings joy, generosity, abundance and good health. It is known as a stone of love and good fortune. It releases tension, inducing relaxation. Topaz promotes openness and honesty, self-realization and self-control. It aids problem-solving and assists in expressing ideas. Stabilizes the emotions, making you receptive to love from all sources.

Topaz aids digestion and combats eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia. It fortifies the nerves and stimulates the metabolism.

Different Types

• Blue Topaz. Throat Chakra, Third Eye Chakra, December Birthstone, Air Element. Blue Topaz is a 4th Anniversary gemstone. Blue Topaz brings truth and wisdom. It aids in clear communication. Blue Topaz helps in bringing body, mind and spirit into union. It assists in recognizing where you have strayed from your own truth.
• Yellow Topaz. Solar Plexus Chakra, Third Eye Chakra, November Birthstone, Jupiter, Air Element. Yellow Topaz is a 23rd Anniversary gemstone. Yellow Topaz strengthens faith and optimism. It assists in recognizing your own abilities, instills a drive toward recognition and attracts helpful people. Bestows charisma and confidence with pride in abilities. Yellow Topaz regenerates cellular structures and is beneficial for nervous exhaustion and insufficient combustion of nutrients. It treats the liver, gallbladder and the endocrine glands.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

Today we will be looking at Tiger Iron

Tiger Iron Associations

• Zodiac- Leo
• Element- Fire, Earth
• Typical colours - golden-brown, red and black

Meanings- Creativity, vitality, strength

Tiger Iron brings out creative and artistic abilities. It is helpful if suffering from deep exhaustion at any level, especially emotional or mental burn-out or family stress.

Tiger Iron stimulates vitality and aids in the assimilation of B vitamins and to balance the red/white blood cell count. It strengthens the muscles and aids in production of natural steroids.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

Today we will be looking at Tiger Eye

Tiger Eye Associations

• Chakras- Sacral Chakra, Solar Plexus Chakra
• Zodiac- Capricorn
• Planet - Sun
• Element- Fire, Earth
• Typical colours - golden-brown, blue, red

Meanings- Protection, clear thinking, personal empowerment, integrity, willpower, practicality, grounding, power, courage, grace

A stone of protection, Tiger Eye may also bring good luck to the wearer. It has the power to focus the mind, promoting mental clarity, assisting us to resolve problems objectively and unclouded by emotions. Particularly useful for healing psychosomatic illnesses, dispelling fear and anxiety. Useful for recognizing one’s own needs in relation to the needs of others. Balancing yin-yang and energizing the emotional body, Tiger Eye stabilizes mood swings, imbues us with willpower, purpose, courage and self-confidence, and releases tension.

Tiger Eye treats eyes, throat and reproductive organs, releases toxins, alleviates pain and is helpful in repairing broken bones and strengthening the alignment of the spinal column.

Different Types

• Blue Tiger Eye. Throat Chakra, Air. Blue Tiger Eye is calming and releases stress. It aids the quick-tempered, overanxious and phobic. Slows the metabolism, cools an overactive sex drive and dissolves sexual frustrations.
• Red Tiger Eye. Base Chakra, Fire. A stimulating stone, Red Tiger Eye overcomes lethargy and provides motivation. It speeds up a slow metabolism. Red Tiger Eye increases a low sex drive.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

Today we will be looking at Tanzanite

Tanzanite Associations

• Chakras- Throat Chakra, Third Eye Chakra, Crown Chakra
• Birthstone- December
• Zodiac- Gemini, Libra, Sagittarius
• Typical colours - blue-violet

Meanings- Composure, poise and harmony, helps us to slow down

Tanzanite stimulates the throat chakra, third-eye chakra, and crown chakra. It activates our psychic abilities and vibratory rate, facilitating communication with the higher spiritual dimensions.

Tanzanite is a stone of transformation that can help dissolve old patterns of disease and karma. It enables us to move forward with optimism and inspiration, giving us a sense of direction and allowing us to manifest our powers for the highest good.

Tanzanite enhances healing at all levels, as well as protecting those who are doing the healing. Physically, Tanzanite alleviates skin disorders, clears the throat and lungs, and can be used to treat disorders of the ears and eyes. It boosts the immune system, speeding up recovery after an illness, and detoxifies and regenerates cells and tissues. Tanzanite is also helpful in treating spinal problems and diseases of the reproductive system.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

Today we will be looking at Sunstone

Sunstone Associations

• Chakras- Sacral Chakra, Solar Plexus Chakra
• Zodiac - Leo, Libra
• Element- Fire, Air
• Typicalcolours- grey, green, yellow, brown, orange, pink, peach, red

Meanings- Freedom, originality, sensuality, romance, sexuality, independence, luck

Sunstone is linked to luck and good fortune. It clears and energises all the chakras. Sunstone instills good nature, heightens intuition and allows the real self to shine through happily. It dissipates fearfulness, alleviates stress and increases vitality. Encourages independence and originality. Especially helpful to those who have difficulty saying “No” to others. Sunstone facilitates self-empowerment and independence. It acts as an antidepressant. Increases self worth and confidence. Encourages optimism and enthusiasm. Stimulates self-healing powers.

Sunstone treats chronic sore throats, reduces stomach tension and relieves ulcers. It treats cartilage and spinal problems.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

Today we will be looking at Sugilite

Sugilite Associations

• Chakras- Heart Chakra, Third Eye Chakra, Crown Chakra
• Zodiac- Virgo
• Planet- Pluto
• Element- Water
• Origin- Japan, South Africa
• Typical colours - Violet pink to lavender to purple

Meanings- Awareness, spirituality, positive thoughts and feelings, channeling ability

Sugilite is today’s “love stone”, representing spiritual love. It opens the chakras and brings them into alignment with the flow of love. Sugilite enhances the development of spiritual awareness, promotes channeling ability and teaches to live from our truth and to believe in our sixth sense, or intuition. It encourages positive thoughts, alleviating sorrow, grief and fear.

Sugilite is excellent in relieving pain and discomfort at all levels.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

Today we will be looking at Strawberry Quartz

Strawberry Quartz Associations

• Chakras- Heart Chakra
• Typical colours - strawberry pink-red

Meanings- Love, healing

In addition to the generic healing properties of Quartz, Strawberry Quartz stimulates the heart energy center, filling ones total person with the feeling of love and with the euphoria of the true loving environment.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

Today we will be looking at Sodalite

Sodalite Associations

• Chakras- Throat Chakra, Third Eye Chakra
• Zodiac- Sagittarius
• Planet- Moon
• Element- Water, Air
• Typical colours - Rich royal blue, green, yellow, violet: mottled with white veins or patches

Meanings- Logic, intelligence, emotional balance, intuition, clarity, truth, perception

Sodalite brings order and calmness to the mind. It encourages rational thought, objectivity, truth and intuition, along with verbalization of feelings. Sodalite brings emotional balance and calms panic attacks. It enhances self-esteem, self-acceptance and self-trust.  

Sodalite balances the metabolism, boosts the immune system and overcomes calcium deficiencies. It combats radiation damage by soaking up electromagnetic smog. Sodalite treats the throat, vocal cords, larynx and helps with hoarseness and digestive disorders. It cools fevers, lowers blood pressure and stimulates the absorption of body fluids. Sodalite can also help to prevent insomnia.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

Today we will be looking at Snowflake Obsidian

Snowflake Obsidian Associations

• Chakras- Base Chakra
• Zodiac- Virgo
• Typical colours - Black with white patches

Meanings- Balance during changes, purification, transformation, fulfillment, metamorphoses, manifestation, practicality, physic ability

In addition to the generic healing properties of Obsidian, Snowflake Obsidian is calming and soothing. It teaches you to value mistakes as well as successes. A stone of purity, Snowflake Obsidian provides balance for body, mind and spirit. It helps you recognize and release “wrong thinking” and stressful mental patterns. Promotes dispassion and inner centering. Snowflake Obsidian empowers isolation and loneliness, aiding surrender in meditation.

Snowflake Obsidian aids in disorders of the veins and the skeletal structure. It improves circulation and alleviates muscular aches and spasms. Treats joint pain (arthritis) and hardening of the arteries.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

Today we will be looking at Smokey Quartz

Smokey Quartz Associations

• Chakras- Base Chakra, Solar Plexus Chakra
• Zodiac- Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn
• Element- Earth/Air
• Typical colours - Brown to grey

Meanings- Serenity, calmness, positive thoughts, calms fear, lifts depression, stability, practicality, intuition, pride

In addition to the generic healing properties of Quartz, Smokey Quartz is an excellent grounding stone. It gently neutralizes negative vibrations and is detoxifying on all levels, prompting elimination of the digestive system and protecting against radiation and electromagnetic smog. Smokey Quartz disperses fear, lifts depression and negativity. It brings emotional calmness, relieving stress and anxiety. Promotes positive thoughts and action, and alleviates suicidal tendencies. Dispels nightmares and manifests your dreams. Smokey Quartz aids concentration and assists in communication difficulties.

Smokey Quartz dissolves cramps, strengthens the back and fortifies the nerves. It is particularly effective for abdomen, hips and legs. Relieves headaches, back pain, eases muscular spasms. Smokey Quartz benefits the reproductive system, the heart, muscles and nerve tissue. It regulates liquids within the body and aids assimilation of minerals.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

Today we will be looking at Silver

Silver Associations

• Zodiac- Cancer, Aquarius

Silver assists in increasing perception and helps to regulate emotional and intuitive energies. It provides for a very strong connection between the physical and astral bodies.

Silver can be used as a mirror to the soul, one to stimulate seeing oneself from outside of the body.

Silver, when used with gemstones, is able to both attract and retain those qualities which are emitted by the stone. The silver provides a steadying influence. It performs a balancing act by drawing negativity from the body while transferring the positive energies of other minerals.

Silver is known to enhance the powers of the moon and is excellent for use in energizing other stones during the full and new moons.

Silver helps to cleanse the body via the pores and to eliminate toxins at the cellular level. It can be used in the treatment of hepatitis, to increase the assimilation of Vitamins A and E, and to ameliorate disorders associated with unstable vision.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

Today we will be looking at Shell

Shell Associations

• Zodiac- Pisces
• Typical colours - Multi

Meanings- Intuition, sensitivity, imagination

Shell stimulates intuition, sensitivity, imagination and adaptability. It helps to enhance mental clarity and provides insight into decision-making. Shell promotes cooperation between the self and others, as well as within the self. It provides cohesive energy for groups.

Shell treats hearing disorders and calcium deficiencies. It assists the healing of broken bones and general dysfunctions of the spinal canal and the nervous system. Shell enhances the assimilation of vitamins A and D.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

Today we will be looking at Serpentine

Serpentine Associations

• Zodiac - Gemini
• Element - Earth, Air
• Typical colours - Green, black-green, brown-red, brown-yellow, white.

Meanings- Longevity, remembrance of past lives

An earthing stone, Serpentine also opens new pathways for the Kundalini energy. It aids in meditation and enhances spiritual exploration. Serpentine assists the retrieval of wisdom, helping to regain memory of past lives. It clears the chakras and stimulates the crown chakra, opening psychic abilities. Serpentine assists the conscious direction of healing energy toward problem areas. It corrects mental and emotional imbalances, helping you to feel more in control of your life.

Serpentine treats diabetes and hypoglycemia. It eliminates parasites within the body, and aids in the absorption of calcium and magnesium. Serpentine is extremely cleansing and detoxifying for the body and blood.

(Note: This being said, if you are suffering from a condition or are in pain please consult a doctor or mental health professional.)

✨ mushroom magic ✨

a little list of different mushrooms and their uses in magic and spells ✨

parasol | protection, hearth magic, offerings, air magic

panther cap | animal magic, nature magic, meditation

boletes | strength, abundance, luck, prosperity, manifesting

death cap | banishing, necromancy, communication with the dead

magpie fungus | divination, chaos magic, banishing

fly agaric | astral projection, divination, protection, banishing, dream magic

tamago take | power, grounding, wisdom, knowledge, energy absorption

rosy russula | sex magic, courage, passion, excitement

horn of plenty | communication with the dead, spirit magic, hedge magic, protection

amethyst deceiver | divination, spirituality, connection with deity, dreams, meditation

puffball | truth, wisdom, justice, appearances

hedgehog mushroom | gentleness, healing, self love, compassion

chanterelle | confidence, happiness, celebration, friendship, sun magic

✨ salt magic ✨

a list of types of salts, their recipes, and their uses and associations in witchcraft ✨

white salt|sea salt, table salt, or kosher salt | cleansing, purification, protection

black salt|hawaiianblack salt or ashes, activated charcoal, black pepper, and sea salt | banishing, protection, curses, jinxes, hexes

pink salt|himalayan pink salt or sea salt, rose oil, and sugar | love, healing, protection

red salt |hawaiian red salt or sea salt, dried red rose petals, and paprika | love, lust, passion, sex magic

blue salt|persian blue salt or sea salt, dried thistle or spiderwort | legal matters, protection, justice

green salt|sea salt, dill, mint, sage, rosemary oil | abundance, money, luck, fortune

purple salt|sea salt, lavender, lilac | cleansing, peace, third eye, intuition, psychic abilities

dragons blood salt |sea salt, dragons blood resin | concecration, protection, power, courage, change

sun salt |incan sun salts or sea salt, ground orange peel, dried sunflower or marigold petals, and orange essential oil, charged in sunlight | energy, happiness, masculinity protection

moon salt|sea salt, lavender oil, dried lavender, and ashes, charged in moonlight | protection, femininity, emotion, balance

fire salt |sea salt, chili powder, paprika, cinnamon | power, energy, quickening effects of magic, representing fire element

frost salt|sea salt, peppermint or spearmint, sugar, ashes | protection, purification, cleansing, emotion, psychic abilities

dream salt|sea salt, chamomile, lavender, mint oil, black pepper | protection, sleep, rest, astral projection

✨ lunar magic ✨

a little list of lunar phases and their associations ✨

new moon | renewal, new beginnings, destruction, death, release, curses, cleansing, setting intentions

waxing crescent | creativity, planning, new projects, communication, action, organization, motivation

first quarter | momentum, moving forward, commitment, concentration, determination

waxing gibbous | cultivation, learning, knowledge, study, attraction, love, power

full moon | harvest, fruition, manifesting, completion, peace, amplifying energy, charging

waning gibbous | celebration, accomplishment, gratitude, contentment, calm, closure

last quarter | release, letting go, banishing, protection, relief

waning crescent | rest, reflection, contemplation, meditation, healing, health

✨ breakfast magic ✨

a list of breakfast food associations for kitchen witches ✨

coffee | focus, energy, grounding

tea | calmness, peace, grounding

milk | nurturing, fertility, health

eggs | renewal, new beginnings, strength, fertility

butter | nurturing, health

bread | love, healing, grounding, protection

oats | prosperity, abundance

potatoes | grounding, protection, stability

strawberries | dedication, fertility, love, luck

oranges | divination, fertility, prosperity, friendship, love

bananas | resilience, wealth, luck, spirituality

blueberries | protection, divination

raspberries | protection, love, fertility

blackberries | healing, sex, fertility

peanuts | wealth, prosperity

almonds | luck, wealth, career

maple syrup | wisdom, balance, love, wealth

honey | kindness, relationships

hazelnut spread | wisdom, creativity, good luck, fertility

cocoa | grounding, prosperity

cinnamon | protection, purification, luck

vanilla | soothing, empowerment, luck, love

salt | cleansing, grounding, protection

pepper | banishing, protection

✨ chakras ✨

a quick little beginner’s guide to the chakras and how they work ✨

chakras are defined as each of the centers of spiritual power in the human body, usually considered to be seven in number

each chakra is representative of a different area of spiritual power

chakras and their health are believed to be directly correlated with physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional health

these influences on overall health may vary depending on if a chakra point or pool is overactive (open) or underactive (closed)

the chakras

❤️ root chakra ❤️

❤️number | first

❤️name | muladhara

❤️color | red, scarlet

❤️location | base of the spine

❤️influences | stability, instinct, moving forward, attachments

sacral chakra

number | second

name | svadhishthana

color | orange, red orange

location | pelvic area

influences | emotion, sexual desire, creativity, adaptability

solar plexus chakra

number | third

name | manipura

color | yellow, gold

location | between naval and solar plexus

influences | energy, intellect, confidence, personal power

heart chakra

number | fourth

name | anahata

color | green, lime green, teal

location | center of the chest

influences | compassion, love, beauty, warmth, joy

throat chakra

number | fifth

name | vishuddha

color | blue, turquoise, sky blue

location | neck and shoulder area

influences | expression, communication, connection, purpose

third eye chakra

number | sixth

name | ajna

color | indigo, deep purple

location | center of forehead

influences | intuition, imagination, wisdom, forgiveness, self love

crown chakra

number | seventh

name | sahasrara

color | purple, violet, magenta

location | crown of the head

influences | consciousness, higher self, liberation, presence, bliss

✨ magic by time of day ✨

a little guide for types of spells and corresponding times to do them ✨

morning

✨ dawn | solar magic, fire magic, weather magic, curse breaking, hex breaking, glamours, beauty, motivation, gentleness, calmness, manifesting, forgiveness, friendships, love

✨ morning | solar magic, fire magic, kitchen magic, blessings, dedications, meditation, kindness, positivity, manifesting, success, good luck

✨ noon | solar magic, air magic, kitchen magic, money, abundance, career, material, manifesting

afternoon

✨ afternoon | solar magic,earth magic, harvest, travel, protection, communication, charms

✨ evening | earth magic, hearth magic, kitchen magic, grounding, relaxation, reflection, meditation, protection

night

✨ twilight | celestial magic, lunar magic, water magic, bath magic, cleansing, growth, improvement, change

✨ dusk | celestial magic, lunar magic, water magic, banishing, hexes, curses, dreams, astral travel

✨ night | celestial magic, lunar magic, water magic, spirit magic, divination, completion, calmness, psychic abilities