Osha Root is a very powerful plant and one of the most important herbs to Native American tribes who treated it with high regard, utilizing every part of it. It also goes by the name bear medicine, mountain ginseng, empress of the dark forest and Indian root. It is a member of the parsley family and has a scent like peppery celery. The root has been used in smoking blends, as well as incense and smudging for purification and protection. Warriors believed that carrying one or wearing it as a talisman while hunting or in battle would protect them.
It has many modern medicinal uses including upper respiratory, anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties. It is an excellent cleansing herb and can increase the power of other smudging herbs when used in combination.
Maybe you’re maybe you’re a new witch unsure of what herbs are worth your time as a beginner, maybe money is tight, or maybe you’re just lazy (like us). If we could only choose 10 herbs to use in our craft, these would be our top picks.
1. Basil – its the witch’s herb, need we say more? Not only do its magical uses span from protection to love to wealth to exorcism, but it is also delicious in mundane recipes as well. If you can only have one herb, basil is the way to go.
2. Rosemary – this herb is also blessed with a wide variety of uses. Excellent for purification, lust and love, good health, preventing nightmares, and all kinds of sea witchery. Bonus: its fragrance is to die for.
3. Lavender – so you might not be able to find this at the grocery store, but its magical uses outweigh the small inconvenience of tracking it down. Most often used for healing, love, protection, peace, purification, and sleep, lavender is a go-to for any mental health needs.
4. Chamomile – lavender’s luckier, jovial cousin. Primarily used in love, healing, and stress reducing spells, but can also be used for luck and gambling. It is associated with the sun, and makes a great tea infusion for stress relief.
5. Thyme – the best herb for social situations. It attracts loyalty, affection, and a good reputation, but we most often bathe in an infusion of thyme for constant flow of money. Also good for increasing courage.
6. Cinnamon – while technically a spice, cinnamon has many magical uses and is also delicious in cooking. Ideal for prosperity and success, protection, love, and all spells related to the spiritual self.
7. Peppermint – a favorite in herbalism for treatment of digestive issues, this herb ideal for cleansing and protecting. Peppermint is also widely available, makes for lovely tea, and is a great addition to any luck spell.
8. Rose – is any love spell complete without rose petals? This flower is the symbol for beauty, marriage, sexuality, divine love, and all kinds of relationships. A larger list of uses for roses can be found here.
9. Cayenne Pepper – every witch needs something with a bit of a bite. This spice does wonders as cursing or banishing agent, or even just as an addition to any spell to speed up results.
10. Mugwort – if we recommend any specialty herb, this is the one. Mugwort is used in spells for divination, astral travel, working within the spiritual realm, and receiving prophetic dreams. (Note: this herb should not be ingested by people who are pregnant)
As you all know, I’m taking spells again! I would appreciate if you’re interested in my work, want to support me, or simply just need a spell done you consider working with me! I’m currently definitely needing some extra income, and truly love working with you guys. I created this little guide for clarity on what I offer + how much I charge. I think there is something here for everyone’s budget. To purchase spells simply email me or DM me to proceed with the process.
