The Magick Pantry

The Magick Pantry - Henbane

Mystery has shrouded this herb for centuries. Many legends both true and
false as also accompanied it for this reason. To begin with let's discuss
the hard cold facts.. NEVER play with Henbane. It is as powerful as Opium
and a deadly poison if taken unprepared. NEVER let a child sleep near a
Henbane as if he/she does, they will never wake.

Not suprisingly, it was a traditional means of putting down a mad dog in
years gone by. The dog was induced to eat meat mixed with this herb and the
animal quickly died. Curiously, too, if the juice of the henbane is poured
into a silver cup, the cup will shatter into thousands of fragments.

For those who enjoy a dish of Hare in season but cannot endure the hunt,
the following is recommended. Mix Henbane with the blood of a young hare
and hang the hare's skin, smeared with the potion, outside the kitchen
door. According to English legend, every Hare from the neighborhood will
gather there and will not move until the skin is removed. Truly a Magickal
enchantment, if the legend holds true.

The benefits of Henbane to human life are more controversial. It is said
that if the feet are washed in Henbane a peacefull sleep ensues. Sniffing
the flowers can have the same effect. Hundred of years ago, dentists would
burn Henbane in a sizzling dish of charcoal surrounded by water, and the
desperate patient would be prevailed upon to inhale the fumes. The
charlatan would then claim that he could see the wicked, achebearing worms
make their escape from the painful tooth into the water around the coals.
The chronicler of this story notes that the dentist had usually arranged
for an accomplice to drop tiny pieces of lute strings into the water, as
the patient closed his eyes against the smoke. When he looked again he
would feel less pain, owing to the numbing effects of the Henbane, and he
could actually see his toothache wriggling in the dish.

Truly an interesting herb that does warrent some serious considerations,
both in the preperation and storage of the plant. Please do be careful when
working with this herb.

The Magick Pantry - Houndstongue

If you are squeemish please pass this entry as it's quite detailed,
although an interesting addition to the Magick Pantry. The herb is however
a part of the pantry.

Whether or not this herb does neutralize the bite of a mad dog cannot be
stated authoritatively. But it is recorded that when strewn under the feet
of a barking dog Houndstongue will silence the nuisance.. hence the name.

The full spell is a bit more complicated.

Capture a frog (it must be a young female) remove its heart and
reproductive organs and crush them into the powdered plant. Put the paste
in an open dish outside your door or wherever the annoying dogs choose to
bark. Soon all the dogs in the neighborhood will gather around the pot.
Take enough sprigs of the herb and push one under the front toe of each of
the dogs assembled. They will be dumb henceforward.

A more infuriating yapping can be even more effectively silenced. Tie a
small sachet of Houndstongue around the dog's neck, where it cannot be
ripped by the creature's teeth. The animal will turn round and round wildly
and finally drop down in a state of paralysis, barely distinguishable from
death.

These techniques are of course totally used at the magicians own personal
descresion.

The Magick Pantry - Ivy (General)

Ivy should have been planted into the very stones of the house. It is also
a necessary part of the Magick Garden (see the Astral_Garden echo for
details). When it has wrapped itself around the home, it is said that
everyone within will be well guarded against negative influences and
illness. However, it is said that if the ivy withers and does not thrive
around the outside walls, financial storms will follow.

Old legends tell us that wine merchants, and innkeepers, or anyone who is
making wines or throwing a party, must have a pring of Ivy outside their
door. Bacchus owns this plant and he will bring special merriment to any
house where it is honoured. It is also said that in doing the above that
there will be gaiety but no drunkenness.

Another legends states that if a girl who wants to find herself a spouce,
takes a sprig of Ivy, laying it gently on her breasts and repeats these
words, will find her awaited mate.

"Ivy, ivy, I love thee, In my bosom I put thee, The first young man who
speaks to me, My future husband he shall be.."

It is also said that the concentrated essense of Ivy dropped into the
nostrils will cure the common cold.

In many religions the Evergreen Ivy is a symbol of everlasting life. To
others, more pessimistic, the gentle Ivy is a poison. Which ever view you
choose, the Ivy is definately an essential accompaniment to your Magick
Pantry.

The Magick Pantry - Lettuce

This is a very powerful plant, homely as it is. Lettuce seems to be woman's
enemy, and is said to be a chief cause of infertility. Never let more than
twelve lettuces grow in the garden and never keep more than one lettuce in
the pantry or the house will lack children. Legend sometimes says
otherwise, although many still swear by this today.

For the Romans lettuce was a good counter to drunkenness and titillated the
sexual appetite after a good dinner. The earliest English sources use in
severe cases of insomnia. The Egyptian Pharahos prized the Lettuce and
offered it in worship to the high gods.

It has been said that nutritionally, some forms of Lettuce are perhaps
absent of nutrients. It is also documented that Lettuce contains 70%
vegetable fats and water, which unlike popular thought, is not the best
choice of dieters using this philosophy.

The Magick Pantry - Lilly

This is the flower of the moon and its best known action is to cool and
pacify. Medically, its strength lies in settling fevers and particularly in
soothing madness. Freckles and sunburn respond to the gentle application of
the distilled water of the Lilly. In some phases of the Magickal world the
power of the Lily is somewhat different however. Some say it produces
madness, as does the moon herself, although these cases are few and far
between.

Again, the following may not be pleasent for some. If you tend to be
squeemish, I'd simply go to the next entry.

Gather the flowers when the sun is in the sign of Leo. Mix the dried
flowers with the juice of the Laurel or of the Bay tree and leave the paste
under a pile of cow dung. Worms will breed. Catch the worms, dry them and
make up a powder. Secretly sprinkle this powder on the chosen victim's
clothes or even try to drop some down his neck. So long as this powder
sticks to him, never again will the enemy rest or sleep. The oil drawn from
the origional dung will cause an instant fever, if you can succeed in
anointing the victim's brow with it. However, if the enemy is just to be
given a severe warning, drop some of the oil into his milk churns and
endeavour to cover these with the skin of a cow of a single colour. His
cows will dry up till the spell is undone.

As you can see from the above, many cultures have abused the essences of
the Lily, which in itself is a shame. The herb/plant is a beautiful
creation with many benefits to mankind. Why someone would want to harm
another using this addition to the Magick Pantry does not seem to be
logical.




May the Water cleanse you, Air teach you,
Fire drive you, and Earth be a foundation for you.

The Magick Pantry - Blood Root

Store this herb in a jar labelled with a false name but remember that the
Blood Root is within. This herb is the root of deception. The Indians of
North America used it to stain their bodies, and it is used still to dye
fabrics. Taken internally it can produce a hypnotic trance. (use with
caution as with all magickally oriented herbs) Carried on a person, inside
a leather pouch or a money-purse, Blood Root will protect that individual
from negativity or evil influences. But keep it close to money for it
demands payment. If a home is suffering from an evil influence, put a sprig
of Blood Root under the doorstep or windowsill and all will be well. Any
definite spell or curse placed by a witch can be reversed by flinging
broken pieces of the root onto his/her doorstep. However, never trust Blood
root unquestioningly, as it often times will suprise you.

The Magick Pantry - Brimstone

No substance is more powerful in invoking or in driving off the forces of
evil. Find a piece of red paper and lay this on a metal plate or dish. On
the paper place a pinch of Brimstone. do this four times and put each dish
in one of the four corners of the room in which the spell is being cast. At
midnight set light to the Brimstone. Address each dish with the following
words:

* I command all evil to flee this house never to return *

Remember to leave all windosw wide open during this rite or the smoke of
the brimstone will be unable to escape and with it the spell.

Some say that Brimstone is actually a resin like that of Frankinsence.

The Magick Pantry - Celandine

Never confuse this important plant with the lesser Celandine or Pilewort
used traditionally in the treatment of haemorrhoids. The true Celandine is
at once a more disagreeable and more potent herb. It has black seeds; its
taste is bitter and caustic; and its smell is foul. But its influence is
not to be sneered at. Swallows and Eagles build their nests in May, and the
flowering of the Celandine in that month is linked with this annual
domestic impulse in the animal kingdom. the herb has its human uses and it
is a useful medicine for jaundice, corns, warts, sore eyes, toothache,
ringworm and scurvy.

John Parkinson, in a manual published in 1640, writes that he has it on
good authority that any sufferer from yellow jaundice will benefit by
putting a sprinkling of Celandine herb beneath his bare feet and treading
it. But its influence is wider still. If the heart of a mole can be
obtained, cooked with this herb and then consumed, it will vanquish all
enemies and win any law suits that may be contested. More somberly, when
placed on the head of a dying man, the Celandine will disclose whether or
not the sufferer is bound to lose his fight. If the man must die, he will
sing out in a loud voice, but he will weep if he can be saved. I thought
that was interesting indeed. Something that I simply must try when given
the unfortunate opportunity.

The Magick Pantry - Celery

Known traditionally as smallage, this plant has always been one of the
prime aphrodisiac foods and more will be made of this kind of magick in the
final set, probably located in the Astral_Home echo. The rumour is that the
famous cola drinks contain elements of this particularly stimulating tonic.

Gather the root when it is still green, drench it in the oil of the Cypress
tree and place the greenery in a pot of gruel. Leave the gruel for one
year. Worms will appear, and those who carry these worms with them will be
gentle and kind and able to triumph over their enemies.

To make Oxen etc, faithfull and certain to follow their masters, tie a
pouch of the celery herb around their necks. The length of time
unfortunately was not specified.

The Magick Pantry - Centaury

The Sun dominates this herb as it does many of the other Magick Plants. A
Centaury opens its flowers just as the sun comes out and closes them as the
sun goes in. Often the Centaury is described as an agreeable herb and is
prescribed for Dyspepsia, but care is advised. If this herb is mixed with
the blood of a female lapwing or a black Plover and poured with oil into a
lamp, all those who circle the light will believe themselves to be magickal
and will live in a world of delusions, so it is stated. Throw the same
mixture into a fire when the stars are shining and then watch the heavens.
The stars will seem to clash and collide. Put some of the herb and the
birs's blood on a bandage and push it under a foe's nostril, it is said
that he/she will suddenly be filled with groundless fears and run for
his/her life.

The Magick Pantry - Chicory

Do not despise Chicory or Endive and exile it to some anaemic salad. Endive
was a divinely chosen herb among many cultures. Traditionally, it is a herb
of love. To prepare it and bring it to usefulness, chop the Chicory and let
it dry. Grind it to a powder and as a love philtre add it to your food or
drink. (especially to flavour coffees) It is said to do so without telling
anyone and, if the secret is well kept, this philtre will arouse passion in
the lover of one's choice. For good fortune in romance an Endive must be
carried on the person. Be sure to renew it every two weeks with a fresh
plant as its period of potency is not more than fifteen days.

Legend states that in certain ceremonies, if carried out with Chicory, can
make the man who eats the plant invisible to human view. Crusaders hung it
on their banners, explorers carried it as they wen venturing into a new
land, and prospectors looking for gold in California kept a sprig of it in
hand for good luck.

Gather Chickory at midnight on the 25th of July. Force a sprig into any
lock that will not open, and pass another sprig over parchment bearing a
description of any problem to be solved; all obstacles and difficulties
will be resolved according to legend about this herb.

The Magick Pantry - Coriander

In many religions Coriander is honoured. Several references have been
documented that the Gods demanded that this herb should be used with four
others at each feast. Its other uses are not so godly however. Grate the
seeds into a glass of your best, matured wine. Give them to a lover and
strong passions will be arroused. But as the powder is placed in the wind,
the lovers must chant together with the following couplet:

"Warm seed, warm heart, Let us never be apart"

Nothing else must be said according to legend. When the wine is drunk its
influence will be felt sruging in the blood, so it is written.

The Coriander seed is round and has an appearance like that of a small nut.
Its shell is eaisly broken once dried, and has a very pleasent fragrance.

The Magick Pantry - Dill

Like with most herbs, the myths are endless for this one as well. It was
said that many attributed this herb as a cure for the common hiccough. Many
even thought that the common hiccough was a result of a witch with a frog
in the throat.

The power of the Dill shouldn't be taken lightly, as it should be greatly
appreciated by any magician. To cure the common hiccough, stir a small
pinch of Dill into a syrup made from Black Cherries which have been laying
in the Magick Pantry for at least (3) days. When the powder is well
dissolved in the liquid/syrup, allow a few drops to trickle down the throat
without swallowing. The hiccoughs will cease.

Dill was also included in many love potions. Here's an old recipe used here
as an example. Steep a few sprigs in hot sweet wine. A few minutes after
drinking on half of a pint, it is said that passions will be excited.

Dill is also quite effective in removing negative energies throughout the
household. As with Basil, the same techniques are applied.

The Magick Pantry - Elecampane

Make a light distillation of this herb and bathe the face with it. Do not
use a mirror and trust the herb. It is said that by utilizing this tincture
on the face that it will profit the complexion by removing unwanted
blemishes etc.

Elecampane is of course also an effective love potion. Aristotle himself
taught how to make them, using this herb as follows. Take Vervain and
Mistletoe and place these herbs in a got oven with the Elecampane. Dry and
mingle the sprigs thoroughly. Pound the three herbs into a powder and put
this into the food or drink of the one desired. The magickal combination of
each herb bound together by this process is said to achieve a potency far
beyond that of your basic aphrodisiac's strength.

The Magick Pantry - Eringo

This unique herb has many benefits, not to mention its tremendous powers in
the healing plane. It is a necessary part of any Magick Pantry, one that
should never be left out.

To heal broken bones or simply to draw out thorns from lacerated flesh,
make a paste of the herb by brusing the root and boiling it with pig fat
(bacon, fatback etc. although salted lard works best) Apply the mixture as
a poultice. The bones will heal, the thorns will spring out and the skin
will mend without a any trace of a scar.

Again, this herb has many benefits. Like most herbs it too can be used in
Love Potions. To improve a love affair or invigorate a marriage bed, grind
the root into small pieces or into a powder. Add this to your food or
better still, to that of the uninspired partner. Legend says that the
ancient Greek women always wore a sprig of Eringo to ensure that they kept
the love of a man.

The Magick Pantry - Ginseng

With the exception of tea's, Ginseng is the most celebrated plant in all
the Orient. The Chinese have great faith in its curative and strengthening
properties and call it the "Chinchona of China". The Manchurian Genseng
comes from the Emperor's mother country, from the soil from which legend
says sprang the `God of Heaven'. It is, therefore, gragrded as more
efficacious than the Ginseng grown anywere else. When the plant grows wild
its root resembles the shape of the human body, and like Mandrake, it is
thought to be most appropriate for most any Magickal spell.

Medicinally, Ginseng is a cure for colds, skin diseases and poor
circulation of the blood. It's anti-spasmodic properties relieve certain
forms of hiccoughs too, like Dill. But it is also a very powerful remedy
for rheumatism. When taken regularly it removes general fatague and
promotes good health. Combined with the juices of a ripe pineapple, it is
an excellent medication for indigestion. Ginseng is particularly useful in
the treatment of young children as well as the aged.

Ginseng tea can be made from the dried leaves or blossoms of the herb.
After the berries are gathered select the brightest, cleanest leaves from a
mature plant. Place them above the kitchen stove in thick bunches turning
and mixing well until they are very dry. Store away in paper sacks. When
the leaves are steeped in boiling water, just like ordinary tea, the liquid
may be drunk with cream and sugar if preferred.

Another recipe for general use in the home is the following: Take a piece
of the root when it is very hard and dry. Break it up with a hammer and
grind it through a coffee mill several times until it is reduced to a fine
powder. To three ounces of the powder add one ounce of milk, sugar and
sixty drops of oil of wintergreen. Mix all the ingredients well and store
in a glass jar. The correct dosage in one teaspoonful to a small teacup of
boiling water. When the drink is cooled it should be taken before each
meal. It may also be filtered served with cream and sugar, and consumed
with the meal. Made as directed this is a most pleasant aromatic tea and
has a good effect on the stomach, brain and the nervous system. If the
evening cup of ginseng is much larger, it is a good and safe hypnotic,
producing a deep restfull, natural sleep.

I would also like to point out that Ginseng does not always have to be
considered as a medicinal herb, as that is simply not true. It is a food, a
plant that can be consumed as food. Therefore one should consider Ginseng
as a food rather than a medicinal remedy. Long before the Chinese used
herbs medicinally, they realized the benefits of Ginseng as a food. When
the warring states began, they began to search out its benefits
medicinally. Now that we are once again a peace loving lot, we once again
should realize these `food' related benefits as opposed to the medicinal
ones.

The Magick Pantry - Myrtle

Out of all of the primary ingredients, Myrtle is one of your best
resources. If one is ever afflicted by bad dreams sent by one's enemies, it
has been written that Myrtle is the perfect remedy.

Here's what you do:

Make a small glass of the liquid and keep it by the bedside. It is said
that any negative night spell at work will be cancelled. The reason for
this is unclear, however based on research and from personal experience, it
is definately worth the effort.

Myrtle was a particular favourite of the goddess Venus. Both the Greeks and
the Romans believed that the plant contained the secrets of eternal youth
and passionate love. The theory was as follows: To gain these benefits for
ever, a brew of Myrtle must be drunk once every three days since the spell
lasts only that long without renewal.

The taste of the plant is undeniably disagreeable. It is, therefore,
permissible to mix Myrtle with food. But mix it only with meat for when it
is added to another substance it will taste of blood. Remember for this
charm to work both lovers must eat or drink from the same container,
otherwise no good effect will be felt from the Myrtle.

It is said that for thinning hair, you can use Myrtle berries together with
rosemary, southernwood, hazel-bark and maidenhair in equal amounts. Burn
them together in a fresh fire and collect the ashes carefully. Stir this
powder into white wine and use the liquid as a shampoo, rubbing and
massaging into the scalp. make this a daily ritual. >

Some old cultures believed that if Myrtle was eaten, it would empower
anyone to spot those delving into evil magickal art forms. Be forewarned
however, that most expert in these arts are also able to counter these
actions. It is not something to play with to say the least.

It is said that when a fresh Myrtle sprig is picked and crackles in the
hand that the beloved person is always true and faithfull.

Many legends refer to this herb with affection calling it the bleeding
tree, since it was connected with blood and sorrow in Greek mythology.
Phaedra pricked these leaves with a hairpin in her anxious frustration as
she awaited Hypolytus, who was already dead. The leaves still bear the
sorrowful marks. Therefore, when storing Myrtle leaves, never crush or bend
them before they are dried or used.

The Magick Pantry - Nettle

Nettle is an agressive plant with many properties. The Nettle in England
was traditionally supposed to have been planted by the Roman legions of
Julius Caesar. Unused to England's miserable and freezing climate, they
frequently found their limbs chilled or even numbed by the frost or sleet.
As a remedy they plucked the Nettles and then scorged their legs and arms
with them. After this they enjoyed the warmth of the inflammation. Legend
has it that to hold the Nettle in one's hand insures one against any fears of hallucinations.

Take some Nettle leaves and mix them with the common houseleek, which is a
soothing agant against Nettle stings. Anoint the body with this essence and
sprinkle the rest on any stretch of water where fishing has been
unseccessful. Then enter the water treading with dignity and respect for
the magick, and the fish will leap into your hands. If they are
unacceptable or too small, just withdraw the hand and the fish will happily
jump back into the water of their own accord.

The Magick Pantry - Orris

This is an ordinary herb to all appearances but its two magickal uses must
be known. In the middle ages it was mixed with food and drink to promote
love. Ground into a fine dust and blown over the clothes of a loved one, it
will ensure that the lover's affection is returned.

Orris is a powerful incense in many magickal arts. When making a benign
incantation during the casting of a spell favourable to oneself, sweeten
the breath with an Orris root. Offer a sprig to a baby, if he takes it and
puts it in his mouth, his teething will be easy and his whole life is said
to be a happy one. If he seems to be refusing it, encourage him, since to
embrace the Orris is to learn to enjoy all that is moderate and pleasant in
life.

The Magick Pantry - Pennyroyal

Any ordinary domestic larder will certainly contain this common flavouring
even before a Magick Pantry is assembled. But grow the plant in your Magick
Garden. A brew of the plant is useful as a remedy for spasms or hysteria.
The oil will deter mosquitos and gnats as well. A garland of the flowers
worn round the brows will relieve giddiness and a swimming head.

By far the most mysterious powers of the herb possesses bear on the animal
world. Take some dried Pennyroyal, grind it with a stone taken from the
nest of a lapwing or a black plover, and smear the belly of any female
beast with this powder. The animal will quickly produce an offspring that
is deep black in colour. An ailing animal can be miraculously healed of any
sickness by sniffing a pinch of Pennyroyal mixture. At first the poor beast
will drop as if dead but presently it will rise again completely cured. A
little more of the mixture placed among bees will ensure that they never
desert the hive. Any bees or flies that have been drowned can be placed in
the warm ashes of this herb and it is said that they will return to life
within the hour.

The Magick Pantry - Periwinkle

Beware of treating this herb as mearly decorative and removing it to a vase
or a display. Recently its strength was further revealed. It was claimed by
some medical opinion that the Periwinkle or Vince Rosea, was an effective
cure for diabetes. More interesting to most of us is the power the plant
has to reconcile man and wife and revive their passions.

Note: This may not be appropriate if you are weak stomached.

To effect this atonement, beat the Periwinkle into a powder and mix it with
earthworms and the herb named Houseleek. Unfortunately, no further
information was available as to the specific way this balm should be
applied, except to say that it should be given with meat to the unhappy
couple. Furthermore, put this herb in the mouth of a young bull and the
animal will run amok directly at your enemy.

For those of you that like special effects at your circles, and enjoy
outside fires within them, sprinkle some Periwinkle powder into the fire
and the flames will turn bright blue.

The Magick Pantry - Peony

It is said that this herb cured the gods injured in the Trojan wars. From
time immemorial, the seeds have been dried and worn in ticht neckband by
men and women as a sure protection against those that work in the black
arts. In Christian philosophy, it was Lucifer himself that was credited
with the creation of the Peony, but its dedication has long since been
transferred to the sun. Therefore, work spells with it only on the seventh
day, and then only after sunrise.

It contains a remarkable cure for a swimming head or for those sensations
of unreality that may afflict on at any time. Take the root and the seed of
one and the same Peony flower. Ensure that the weight of both is equal.
Pound them together into as much powder as will balance a nutmeg on the
scales. Now grind the netmeg, shake the powder and grind it again. Mix
together both the powders and sprinkle fine sugar into them. Put a pinch
under the toungue every morning for a month. This will steady and calm any
being.

In Ireland it is widely used and is helpful to women suffering after
childbirth.

The Magick Pantry - The Rose (General)

The Rose is beautiful both in appearance and in scent. Yes, it is a flower
but it's also considered to be a very powerfull herb. The magickal effects
of the Rose can be devastating. Take a center from the whole flower or just
one dried petal. A mustard seed and a weasel's foot are also needed. Hang
all these together in a hempen bag on a branch of ANY tree; that tree will
never again bear fruit.

A dried Rose, entwined in a fisherman's net, will charm into it a full
shoal of fish. To create an optical illusion, if illusion it be, take some
of the origional Rose and some mustard powder and mix it together with
purest Olive oil and a little Brimstone . Sprinkle this potion
over the roof and the outside walls of the chosen house. When the sun
shines this house will appear to be on fire.

The Magick Pantry - Rosemary

It is traditional it is said to wear Rosemary at weddings. This was always
done in ancient times and the herb was a much a symbol of marriage as was
the colour white. The power of Rosemary is to remind and to bind. For many
years occultists have appreciated Rosemary as a stong agent.

One spell, enabling a virgin to see her future husband, had to be carried
out on the eve of St. Mary Magdalene. The herb was dipped into a mixture of
wine vinegar and water in a glass dish, and the juice was then used to
anoint the virgin's breasts. She had to be accompanied by two of her
closest friends under the age of twenty-one, who would then conduct her
back to her bedroom after the ritual, all without speaking a word. The
virgin would then inevitably dream of her future husband.

An alternative to the anointing was for the three girls to take three sips
of the liquid. They then fastened a sprig of Rosemary to their bosoms and
retired confidently to bed. All three would that night dream of their
future husbands and learn the secrets of their lives thereafter.

Rosemary can also be used to retain or gain power over a man. To do this,
aquire some water or wine already touched by the man himself. Place the
Rosemary in four boxes, set out at the four polls of the compass, (Northe,
South, East, and West) which must be placed in the center of the room. Pour
a little water or wine into each of the boxes and say the following:
(Again, a Latin translation would be nice)

"Tibi impero ut quaedam viluero, et velim adimpleas et facias"

When two days have elapsed take out the Rosemary, swathe it in silk and
bury it in the earth, no less than six inches deep. Let it lie there for
three days and then remove the bundle one hour after sunset. Burn the herb,
collect and powder the ashes. When this powder is discreetly placed into
the food or drink of the chosen man, he will return your love.

Rosemary is a long slender leaf tapered on the ends. It smells sweet, and
when crushed it is quite palatable. It is also said that one can make a
Rosemary infusion, to rid the household pet of fleas.

The Magick Pantry - Rue

Many cultures have adorned this herb for centuries. It is said that Rue is
helpful in rescinding unwanted magickal workings, and to reverse decisions.
It is the herb of repentance, the herb of grace. Roman Catholics sprinkle
the petals of Rue on the surface of their holy water. During a symbolic
ceremony to guard against disease, it is also strewn in some courts of law.
Its uses in removing negative entities are astounding. This includes the
art of excorsism, in some faiths.

Here was an instruction from a priest recorded in 1664 that I though was
interesting regarding excorsism. His origin was never mentioned...

To remove the influence of someone's Familiar

First they are to try the entity by dousing with prepaired holy water, or
water blessed by the faith. To this would include the addition of incense,
sulphur, and rue which from thence, as we suppose can, came to be called
herb of grace, along with St. John's wort which therefore they call the
evil out, yet they may do good to the patient.

Other uses would be to make a tea and some incense from Rue. Drink the tea
and burn the incense simultaneously. Although Rue is not an aphrodisiac, it
has been known to attract a desireable lover, clear the mind, and enable
one to solve many problems.

The Magick Pantry - Sage

Many traditions utilize this powerful herb in many ways. Of these,
smudging, incenses, as well as cooking are among the most popular. Again,
this herb must be grown fresh. Never use the
remnants of your cooking supply for magickal workings. Red Sage is an
exotic plant in spite of its conventional uses. The herb may be used for
throat gargles and mouthwashes, but it also has many magickal properties.

This magickal working is not for those that are squimish. (I found it
interesting, and am in hopes that others will as well.)

Dry, purify and select the best pieces of the plant and put them in a small
pile of cow dung on a glass dish. If discretion and respect are used, soon
a worm will issue forth or perhaps a bird with black tail feathers. The
blood of the creature that wriggles or hops out of the glass vessel is
powerful and dangerous. Place a drop of it on the brest of anyone to be
disposed of. The person will loose his/her wits and feel nothing for
fifteen days or more. Once the magick creature is killed for its blood,
burn the carcass and collect the ashes. Scatter them on a fresh fire. A
magnificent rainbow will appear in the sky and a horrible thunderstorm will
follow. If a woman wishes to dominate her home she must grow plenty of sage
in her garden.

The Magick Pantry - Snakeweed

No herb is stranger in its powers than Snakeweed. It is also called Bistort
and under this name it was used by doctors as a gargle and as a treatment
for haemorrhages. But regard it as Snakeweed and treat it accordingly.

One legend says... Bury a sprig of it in the ground with a leaf of Clover.
Red and Green snakes will spring out from this patch of earth. Catch and
kill them and dry their skins. Make a powder out of them and scoop a little
of hte substance onto a burning lamp in a darkened room. Again red and
green snakes, wreathing and coiling in multitudes, will sprout from the
light. Place the same powder under the sleeping head of any man troubled by
recurring dreams and he will never again dream of himself.

The Magick Pantry - Spikenard

This plant is more common in North America rather than Europe, but
international legend has much to say about its powers. It is particularly
well known in the German occult world. But the herb originally grew in
India and it has a deep history and significance among the Hindus. In the
Christian faith for example, the Bible claims that Jesus Christ was
anointed with ointment distilled from Spikenard.

It is a most useful herb to keep a lover faithful. Take a sprig of the herb
and try to make the lover touch it with his right hand. Better still, make
him/her wear it for a short time against his/her heart. Retrieve the
Spikenard and enclose it in a leather pouch. Tie the bag very securely and
bury it in the ground. The best place to do this is within the circle of
stones in the Magick Garden. As long as the bag remains in the earth, the
lover will be true. Check the bag twice a month, for on those occasions a
new sprig of Spikenard must be added to continue the spell.

The Magick Pantry - Suntull

This root can be acquired under the name of skunk cabbage or meadow
cabbage. It has both the appearance and the reputation of being a nasty and
anti-human herb. Medically, its only use seems to be for producing saliva
and helping to calm fevers. But to the magician, its powers are more
precise and more important.

Take a Suntull leaf which must have been gathered on a Sunday in August, on
hour after sunrise. Fold a single yellow dandelion flower within the leaf.
Around this a bayleaf must be wrapped. Carry this talisman in your pocket
to guard against those who wish to do you harm. Every person henceforth
will become a friend and justice will be obtained in any court of law.

The Magick Pantry - Tonka Beans

These beans are native to Guiana so some hardship may be experienced in
acquiring them. But their uses are various so it is worth wile to
persevere. They are important in the making of incense on account of their
strong and lasting smell. To consume them is a perilous venture, since
their power is to paralyse the heart. However, when the bean is used with
caution, its power is good.

Take one or three of the beans and put them in a locket or pouch. To give
the cham grace and greatly added power, attach a cross (made of wood, metal
or other substances, just as long as it's not a crucifix) Aquarian Star, or
a Pentagram/Pentacle to the chain on the locket. To make a more powerful
talisman or an Amulet pierce the bean at the sharp end and thread it with a thin gold
wire. Onto this wire tie a golden cross, or any of the above suggestions.
Try to use a wishing stone or tool as this will bring about greater power.

Charge this amulet or talisman with a purpose, and release the energy into
the universe. It is said that by carrying this talisman, you will be
protected against even the greatest harm. Likewise, if employing an amulet
the same is true only in the agressive nature.

The Magick Pantry - Vervain

Many traditions utilize this powerful herb in many ways. Here are some of
the more interesting possiblities.

..

It is certainly a strong drug and widely used as a tranquilizer.
Traditionally, a weak Vervain water creates merriment among the guests at a
formal gathering. An old custom was to steep Vervain in hot water, strain
off the herb itself and diluting the solution further, to use the liquid as
a detergent or a spray around the home. It was said that all negativity
would be kept at bay by its use. The water was commonly referred to as
Juno's brew. The dry herb has often been carried as a charm against similar
forces.

To cure fainting fits, gather the herb when the sun is in Aries. Mix the
dried substance with a pinch of Peony or a single Peony pod which is one
year old. The brew will remedy the sickness. If the herb is buried in a
garden, after eight weeks worms will be engendered. These worms are fatal
to the touch. A sprig of the plant, placed in a dovecot, will keep the
doves happy and stop them from flying away. If a man keeps two mistresses,
a pinch of this powder will set the two women at each other's throat.

Vervain is not the best smelling herb out there, especially if you are
going to steep it.

It is said that Vervain is so powerful that if it were able to make contact
with the sun that it would turn blue, if it were to ever be taken there.

The Magick Pantry - Whale Oil

This is an important ingredient in the Magick Pantry. No this isn't the oil
from the whale, although in old times, it was. Today it is mostly Crocodile
oil or the distillation of some organ from a reptile that is used. Certain
spells that you may come across will reference this type of oil. These
substances are getting harder and harder to purchase. Hardly a single
delicatessen still stock reptile produce.

Here are some uses for Whale Oil..

To end the irritating croaking of frogs in the Magick Garden or to drive
away howling cats (as we have all heard from time to time) you can cast the
following spell:

Melt some wax that has been bleached by Sunlight and add a little Whale Oil
from an earthenware jar. Put the mixture into a clay vessel and lower into
it a sturdy wick. Light the magick lamp and put it on the edge of the pond
or on a doorstep. No frog will croak again and no cat will dare to howl at
night, when this has been achieved.

The Magick Pantry - Wild Teasel

This is a mysterious and important herb to keep in the Magick Pantry. It
comes third in the magick order of plants, but it is rarely found in a
garden. It's power is unquestionable. .. the proof is found in tis capacity
of produce pregancy in animals.

The traditional spell demands Mandrake juice. Mix this fertile essence with
the prepared liquid of the Wild Teasel. Give the mixture to a bird or a
beast and it will presently produce healthy young of its own kind. But do
not give thanks to the Mandrake alone. Fear the Teasel for it can create
discord. The secret of this reprehensible power is a dangerous one and must
be carefully handled.

A tooth recently extracted from the gum is needed. Drop the tooth into meat
or drink prepared with Teasek, and quarrels and fights will begin. Only the
calming Valerian can soothe the tumult.

The Magick Pantry - Wormwood

Myths and legends surround this herb as well. It was said that as the
serpend writhered its way in flight from this Garden of Eden, this plant
sprang up in its trail. Its power is great, not only agains halitosis and
worms, but also against mouse bites and attacks by jellyfish, Anomoes, and
particularly the Portuqese Man-of-War's.

This herb dedicated to Artemis, it has long been employed in ceremonials to
raise the dead, Necromancy.. if you will. It has also been used to conspire
with the lower negative entities of the underworld by many magicians. In
such rituals Wormwood must be burned on glowing charcoal and the incense
will work the spell. Sometimes the powdered herb is placed in a folded cone
of black paper and the paper is lighted at the tip. But this must be
performed only at the dead of night. As the smoke rises, cry out, invoke
the name or names of the desired departed, or entieies and ask them to make
their presence known. Provided that the necessary apparatus can be
constructed, the spell will work better if the fuming incense is swung from
side to sid on a pendulum.

To cure the plaque magicians used to mix Wormwood with rue, plunged into a
pint of ale with a slice of lemon and left overnight. In the morning the
brew was drunk in one draught without other food or drink. The patient
sually rallied.

The Magick Pantry - Conclusion

As you can see, there were many items necessary in order to stock your
larder. Please keep in mind that these were suggested items. Each magician
has their own personal collection, some which may not have been included
here. This was provided to give you a guide or to start your pantry.