Author: aromagregory

ostara article

What is Ostara? Celebrating the Return of the Light

Ostara goddessOstara is celebrated on either March 20 or 21 (the vernal equinox), depending on the calculations of when it takes place. The roots of Ostara can be traced back to the pagan traditions of the early Germanic people. It is believed that Ostara was initially celebrated as the festival of Eostre, the goddess of Spring. The arrival of Spring and the return of the sun signaled the festival, which was a time of celebration and rebirth. The name of the festival was named after the goddess Eostre, who gave her name to the Christian holiday of Easter. The modern incarnation of Ostara is an attempt to revive the pagan traditions surrounding this time of year, which celebrates with food and drink.

German author and folklorist, Jacob Grimm, used comparative data to recreate a hypothetical continental Germanic goddess in his 1835 book, Deutsche Mythologie, whose name would have survived in the Old High German word for Easter, Ostara. According to Grimm, the Old High German adverb “ôstar” and the Old Norse word “austr” (*áustr) both “convey movement toward the rising sun.” It’s also possible that Anglo-Saxon “astor” and Gothic “áustr” do the same. Grimm claims that the goddess’ cult may have been centered upon an Old Norse version, Austra, or that it may have already vanished by the time of Christianization. He links these names to the same Latin term “auster.”

The idea to revive Ostara as a celebration of Spring was inspired by ancient pagan traditions and festivals such as Eostre. A Wiccan High Priest named Frank B. Caroll introduced the “Ostara” festival into the Neo-Pagan movement in the late 1970s after learning about the celebration from his friend Aidan Kelly from the Welsh Traditionalists community close to Philadelphia. Mr. Carroll started celebrating at his Church of All Worlds Coven called “White Mare,” which later became a separate denomination known as the Church of Aphrodite.

Ostara is celebrated throughout Europe and America, with differing traditions in different regions. In some regions, the custom is to make nests decorated with brightly colored eggs and flowers that symbolize rebirth and fertility during the coming months of spring weather.

The symbols and rituals associated with Ostara are meant to celebrate springtime’s coming and nature’s rebirth. Some of the most common symbols associated with Ostara include eggs, rabbits, and flowers.

Eggs are a common symbol of Ostara because they represent new life. They can be dyed in bright colors to signify the coming of Spring, and often contain hidden treats or messages inside.

rabbit ostara easterRabbits are also a common symbol of Ostara because they are linked to new beginnings and fertility. In some traditions, it is believed that if a rabbit is seen during Ostara, it will bring good luck. Hares and rabbits are frequently shown in Easter artwork throughout Northern Europe.  Adolf Holtzmann was the first author to link the goddess Eostre and hares in his book Deutsche Mythologie. “The Easter Hare seems unintelligible to me,” remarked Holtzmann of the custom. “Yet, the hare was undoubtedly the sacred animal of Ostara, just as there is a hare on the statue of Abnoba.”

Flowers are also associated with Ostara as they represent the blooming of springtime. Planting flower seeds is a good way to celebrate Ostara as well as: spring cleaning, a bonfire to celebrate the return of the light, or host a Spring feast with family and friends with lots of fruits and fresh vegetable dishes.

questions baby witches ask

The Top Five Questions Baby Witches Ask About Witchcraft

witch in woods reading tarotA baby witch is someone who is new to witchcraft and still learning the ropes. They are often eager to learn and are open to exploring different forms of magic. A baby witch may not have a lot of experience with spells, rituals, or folklore yet, but they will likely have an open mind when it comes to learning. Based on conversations with beginners, we’ve come up with the top five questions baby witches (beginners) ask about witchcraft.

1) What is the difference between Wicca and witchcraft?
Wicca and witchcraft are closely related, but there are some key differences. Wicca is a modern neo-pagan religion, while witchcraft is a spiritual practice that predates Wicca and can be incorporated into any religious or non-religious belief system. Wicca tends to emphasize group rituals, nature-based holidays, ethics of harm none, and doing what will bring you the most good. On the other hand, Witchcraft is more flexible and personal; it involves working with energies and creating spells to manifest your desired results.

2) How does one practice witchcraft wisely?
The first step to practicing witchcraft wisely and thoughtfully is to ensure that you are doing so with a good set of ethics. This means understanding the importance of not forcing your will on others, being mindful of energies, and staying within the boundaries of harm none. It’s also important to take the time to learn about different types of magic, create protective circles and choose ingredients for spellwork carefully. Ultimately, respect for yourself and others should be at the forefront of any practice.

3) Are there different types of witchcraft?
Yes, there are many different types of witchcraft, each focusing on different aspects of magical practice. Some commonly recognized paths include traditional Witchcraft, Celtic Witchcraft, Nordic Witchcraft, Eclectic Witchcraft, Shamanism, and Voodoo. Each type has a unique set of beliefs and practices that must be explored to determine which is right for you.

4) How do I know if I have a natural affinity for witchcraft?
Many people who have a natural affinity for witchcraft are instinctively drawn to it. If you feel a strong connection to the energy of nature and its elements, or if you’ve always had an interest in spellwork and ritual, these could be signs that you have an aptitude for the practice. Additionally, some people may find themselves dreaming about witchcraft or having moments of déjà vu when exploring different types of magic. Ultimately, it is up to you to determine if you have a natural talent for witchcraft.

5) Can anyone learn to be a witch or is it a special gift?
The practice of witchcraft is open to anyone who puts in the time and effort to learn. Although some people may have a natural skill for it, any individual can become a witch through study, dedication, and practice. Witchcraft requires an understanding of energy manipulation, ritual techniques, and natural laws. It is also important to recognize that every individual’s experience with witchcraft will be unique.

witches dancing in a circleFrom understanding the differences between Wicca and witchcraft to exploring different types of magic, there is a lot for baby witches to learn about this spiritual practice. Anyone can become a witch with enough dedication, study, and perseverance. So go forth and explore! May all of your spellwork be successful as you continue down the path of learning witchcraft.

To learn more, check out all the books we have on Wicca and witchcraft HERE.

top questions baby witches ask

 

five crystals for protection

Five Crystals To Use For Protection

Five Crystals to Call on When You Need a Little Extra Protection

Here are five crystals you can use for protection. While there are many more you can use, we decided to focus on these five to give you a sense of how to use stones and crystals when you need to shield yourself from what can sometimes feel like a world filled with negativity. All of us experience periods in our lives when we require protection. Even some of the negativity on social media has made you not want to deal with people. This could be because you’re in a bad relationship or because of the nonstop doom and gloom of being able to watch the news 24 hours a day. Or, you might feel like negative energy is clouding your vision, making you feel ungrounded. Crystals can help you deal with your own negativity, self-sabotage, toxic relationships, or other people’s negativity by aligning you with their vibrations.

Besides shielding you from outside influences and bad energy, crystals can also provide you the power to defend yourself and the wisdom to know when to back off. The five crystals listed below can aid in your protection. You can tap into the power of these crystals by holding them in your hands during meditation or carrying them with you all day.

Hematite:

hematite for protectionWhen used during a transition or transformation in life, this mineral is beneficial due to its negativity-absorbing properties. Its balancing and grounding energies can be very helpful when building a solid foundation during these kinds of trying times. Hematite is thought to make people more creative and to increase blood flow while making them more stable and safe. When tumbled, it changes from its natural opaque red or gray color to gray with a mirror-like shine. The element Earth, the signs of Aquarius and Leo, and the Root Chakra are all symbols of hematite. Nine is a number vibration frequently used to help balance the root chakra.

Black onyx:

black onyx for protectionThis crystal can manifest confidence and strength, two qualities you’ll need to defend yourself. You will be able to handle everything life throws at you with the help of the energy of this strong crystal. Black onyx has beneficial qualities for enhancing self-confidence, boosting physical vigor, and developing inner power. These stones are also used as ordinary jewelry as a form of spiritual defense against psychic assault. The senses are heightened by black onyx. They will reduce mental haze, enhance intuition for clarity and judgment, sharpen concentration, and raise consciousness. The Root Chakra, the Zodiac signs Gemini and Scorpio, and the element of Earth serve as symbols for it.

Malachite:

malachite for protectionThis crystal is excellent for warding off evil spirits. This gem can function to repel all bad energy, whether it is internal or external. Malachite amulets were believed to offer protection from the evil eye. Long after, during the Middle Ages, children wore malachite to guard them against witchcraft and black magic. Malachite was believed to have warning properties and would shatter into pieces if danger were present. Malachite has several advantages, including offering security, reducing negativity, and directly boosting physical aspects of general health, such as your immune system, respiratory system, liver, and energy levels. The water element, the signs of Taurus and Scorpio, and the Heart Chakra are all associated with malachite.

Amethyst:

amethyst tumbledOne of the best crystals for psychological protection is amethyst. It can be used to look after your emotional and spiritual well-being because of its balancing and stabilizing qualities. Use this crystal to aid in the clearing of irrational, unfavorable, or worrisome thoughts. It can be very potent for those born under the signs of Virgo, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces. Amethyst helps you own your space by enabling a connection to your greatest and best thinking. Amethyst worn as a necklace can help you shield yourself from harmful energy in a crowd or public area. Put a piece beneath your pillow to safeguard against nightmares and psychic interference while you sleep. Another effective technique to utilize the power of these protective stones is to place Amethyst all over your home to maintain the frequency of your property. Both the Third Eye and Crown Chakras are in tune with it.

Black Tourmaline:

black tourmaline for protectiona strong healer and defender, black tourmaline stops negative energy from spreading and replaces it with neutrality. Carrying tourmaline prevents psychic attacks and destructive thought patterns. Every time you enter a situation that makes you feel anxious or frightened, have a piece of black tourmaline in your pocket. Tourmaline is thought to be a healing stone for people who have had a broken heart because it makes love grow, calms emotional pain, and gets rid of upsetting feelings. It soothes the negative emotions that strain relationships.

check out aromaG’s online collection of stones and crystals here. More added every week.

curses in movies and literature

Curses in Literature and Movies

CURSES IN LITERATURE

We’ve been telling stories with hexes and curses for as long as stories have been told, filled with bad luck, punishments, and redemption. But, whatever the reason they were cast, these curses deliver precisely what we humans crave in literature and our everyday lives: clear causes for disastrous consequences and explanations for the terrifying and irrational. They are lessons in cause and effect.

THE HOUSE OF THE SEVEN GABLES

curse in house of seven gables bookNathaniel Hawthorne’s novel The House of the Seven Gables follows the generations of a Puritan family and the curse that follows them. The Pyncheons are a well-respected family in their little Massachusetts town, but their past is filled with mysteries, inexplicable deaths, and a dying man’s curse. Colonel Pyncheon is a wealthy and influential Puritan from Salem, Massachusetts. He has one ambition: to bequeath his descendants a magnificent home. After much hunting, he finally discovers the perfect spot for his house, adjacent to a freshwater spring. But there’s a snag. It’s a big one. Matthew Maule, a poor man, owns the property. Colonel Pyncheon refuses to buy Maule’s land since he has already cleared and tilled it. Colonel Pyncheon, on the other hand, is patient. Pyncheon saw his opportunity when witchcraft mania swept Salem in 1692. He accuses Maule of witchcraft, and Maule is hanged as a result. Maule curses Pyncheon before dying, warning him that ‘God will give him blood to drink.’ Pyncheon begins construction on a large residence, which he names the House of the Seven Gables, as soon as he obtains Maule’s land. However, Matthew Maule’s curse reappears on the day of Colonel Pyncheon’s housewarming party. Pyncheon is discovered dead, his neck covered in blood. The curse has begun. And so the story continues with the descendants of Colonel Pyncheon being affected by the curse.

THE BOOK OF SPECULATION

book of speculationIn this novel by Erika Swyler, we have Simon and Enola Watson, who are from a line of breath-holding carnival mermaids. Still, each generation of Watson women suddenly drowns on the same day every year. In this novel, the plot is about the investigation of a curse with Simon trying to find out the source of it to attempt to end it. The clues to the curse of July 24th are strange ecological events, a mysterious ancient book, and a collapsing house. I will tell you that the story deals with a cursed object causing the problem, but, not being an author who enjoys publishing spoilers, you will have to read it to find out what that object is. It may not be the one you thought.

THE BOY WHO LOST HIS FACE

the boy who lost his face book coverIn this 1989 young adult novel by Louis Sachar, we are introduced to the main character, David, a young boy in middle school. His friend, Scott, wants to hang out with the cool kids, but David isn’t quite cool enough to be accepted into the group. When the boys decide to take an elderly lady’s cane, the old woman casts a curse with David as the target. Everything goes wrong suddenly: David smashes his parents’ bedroom window, his fly is never zipped, his pants come down, and he pours flour all over the place. Meanwhile, his “friends” mock him and exclude him from their social circles. While you’ll have to read the book to find out what happens, this is an excellent example of a curse cast by using nothing but words. Or, do the words create a self-fulfilling curse?

CURSES IN MOVIES

Hollywood and television have used curses and hexes in their plot too many times to count. But here are my two favorite examples, each one using a different type of curse.

PRACTICAL MAGIC

practical magic by Alice HoffmanThe Owens family curse is one of the fundamental conflicts in the film. The first thing viewers learn about Maria Owens is that she cursed her family (accidentally), resulting in a generational curse that any man who dared to love an Owens woman would die. Her original intention was to call a spell on herself so that she would not feel the pain of love loss. But, over time, it caused her to turn bitter and the spell transformed into a curse. When Sally and Gillian’s father dies when they are only children, we see the curse in action. Their mother passes away due to a broken heart, and the two girls are forced to live with their aunts. The curse reappears several years later, this time with Sally’s husband, who also succumbs to the curse and is hit by a truck. The elimination of the curse was one of the many difficulties remedied after the ritual that took care of Jimmy. There is no curse in Alice Hoffman’s book “Practical Magic.” Sally and Gillian’s parents, as well as Sally’s husband, do pass away. (In the book, he is hit by a car full of teenagers when he steps off the curb.) However, none of these fatalities have anything to do with the curse. These deaths are solely to drive the plot forward.

DRAG ME TO HELL

curse in the movie drag me to hellChristine Brown works as a loan officer at a bank, and she is competing for an assistant manager position with a coworker. Because her boss thinks she is incapable of making hard decisions, she declines a time extension on a loan to an elderly woman, Mrs. Ganush, who is facing foreclosure and the loss of her home. In vengeance, the elderly woman casts a curse on her, which she later discovers will result in her being dragged to hell after three days of being tormented by a Lamia demon. (In mythology, a Lamia is a demon who devours children.) She eventually turns to a psychic who has had experience with a Lamia to try and exorcise the demon. Here we have a curse that calls upon an outside force, a demon, to carry out its wrath, a similar, but more serious, scenario to calling upon an Intranquil Spirit.

Whether the curse appears in books, television, the theater, movies, or beloved fairy tales, any good fiction writer will appreciate the one thing they have to offer – they provide the characters with a conflict that seems impossible to hurdle. As readers and viewers, we love to be left on the edge of our seat wondering if the hero will get past trouble and get their happy ending.

This article is an excerpt from the book, HEX APPEAL – How to Cast Dark Spells of Revenge, Cursing, and Damnation by Gregory Lee White

read a detailed article about Curses here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Curse

cherries passion lust spell

Five Cherry Spell – FREE SPELL

Five Cherry Spell for Passion and Lust

cherries in love magic

This spell falls between a passion spell and a sweetening spell because of its ingredients. It is meant to awaken your partner’s desire in a way that they only have eyes for you. (cherries stand for love, respect, fidelity, passion, honesty) What you will need:

  • 5 cherries
  • Glass red wine
  • Teaspoon honey
  • Red bag or pouch

Pour the glass of wine, imagining that you are pouring it for your lover. Take a single sip of wine. Lick a small amount of honey from the teaspoon and eat a cherry. Take your time and make it a sensual experience as you roll the cherry around your mouth with your tongue while picturing you and your lover in bed. Take the remaining honey in the teaspoon and stir it into the wine. Spit the cherry pit into the wine. Repeat until you have eaten all the cherries and there are five pits in the glass. Allow the glass of wine with the pits in it to sit overnight. The next day, retrieve the pits from the wine and allow them to dry. You may throw away the remainder of the wine. Put three pits in the bag and place the bag under the center of your mattress. Put one pit in your underwear drawer and one in the bottom of his. If you fear he will find it, tape it to the bottom side of the drawer.

How to practice witchcraft using stone fruits

The sky is the limit when it comes to using stone fruits in your witchcraft, as it is with many various sorts of food.

Remember to thoroughly wash and dry your stone fruit before utilizing it, whether you plan to eat it or use it in magick (or both).

If you plan to consume the fruit yourself or serve it to others, check sure the water is suitable for human consumption before using it to clean your stone fruit.

Look through your fruit and throw away those that are obviously bad, have been consumed by small animals, or are dripping with juice.

If stone fruits need to ripen, place them somewhere warm but not too hot, such a kitchen table or counter. Store them in the refrigerator or a very chilly area, such as a cold cellar, if they are already ripe and you want to slightly extend their shelf life.

Who is Papa Candelo?

papa candelo Papa Candelo is a powerful and well-known lwa or loa. His origins are said to be in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, but his impact has expanded throughout the Caribbean and the United States mainland. In the Afro-Caribbean-Catholic syncretist religion of Santeria, Papa Candelo is recognized as Martin de Porres. He is a smart and fiery spirit who expects to be respected.

It’s possible that Papa Candelo originated as a folk hero. According to one legend, he was an enslaved African man before becoming a deity. He was never completely human in other incarnations. He was, instead, a strong spirit who took on the form of a human in order to impart spiritual wisdom and inspiration to those around him. Whether he was once a man or has always been a strong spirit, Papa Candelo now exists as a strong, energetic loa who enjoys dice games, cockfights, dancing, and fireworks. Papa Candelo may assist with any difficulty, but his specialty include delivering luck to those in business, money, and other fields. This spirit is summoned to help those in need. He can be invoked to burn away all undesired things because he is a fire-related deity. When it comes to unhexing, uncrossing, and cleansing rituals, he is the perfect spirit to invoke. He’s also good at battling diseases.There is a great wiki article on the Lwa

Belie Belcan, his friend and partner, is a divinity who protects humans from adversaries, injustice, and evil. Belie Belcan has a syncretism with Archangel Michael ( The Archangel Michael is also petitioned for fire protection). This demonstrates Papa Candelo and Belie Belcan’s balancing impact on one another and explains why they are frequently acknowledged as a pair.

Papa Candelo is a spirit of fire. He, like fire, can be severe or vibrant, punishing or inviting. He is demanding of respect and tradition, but he is also humble. Papa Candelo is not a loa to be messed with lightly. Like fire, he demands knowledge, prudence, and the same level of respect as an open flame.

Witchcraft Traps Discovered in Restored Welsh Home

A property filled with magical artifacts lately drew a lot of attention. A “witchcraft cave” was discovered beneath a staircase in a 16th-century Welsh mansion filled with occult items such as animal skulls and a cache of left shoes. Kerrie Jackson was repairing her 16th century AD home in Denbigh, North Wales, with her husband Bleddyn when they uncovered a witchcraft cell buried beneath their staircase. Animal skulls, poison, perfume-filled bottles, strange shoes, and a half-eaten wooly cap were among the esoteric things strewn beneath the stairwell in an attempt to catch witches and their spiritual accomplices, demons.

How Was The Welsh Witchcraft Den Found?

Bleddyn inherited the house where the 500-year-old antiques were uncovered, and it had been in his family for several centuries. Kerry told The Scottish Sun that her husband was working in the room next door when he “saw something through a hole he’d put in the wall” at this Grade II-listed farmhouse in Denbigh, North Wales.

Further investigation found that the stairwell was built over a sealed medieval doorway that originally connected several areas of the house. Kerry described peering into the darkness as “quite creepy,” and they could only see a handful of shoes through the rubble at first. After that, as their eyes adjusted, they noticed an “eerie bundle,” which turned out to be a collection of supernaturally imbued things. According to an article in Wales Online, they discovered that previous tenants in their home had sought to “capture witches and demons” after doing some investigation.

Attracting and Trapping Witches Using Human Objects

shoe found as witchcraft trapThe Welsh couple discovered “eight weird shoes,” all for left foot, ranging from toddler’s shoes to heavy men’s work boots, as they investigated the hidden witchcraft nest beneath their stairs. A wooden hat, parts of a horse’s skull, gun barrel fragments, ancient invoices, and bottles full of poison and perfume were also discovered, all of which were thought to ward against evil in the late medieval period. As if that wasn’t enough, the terrifying discovery was still to come in the form of a washed-out antique portrait of a woman dubbed “Vicky,” which was hidden behind shutters in the parlor.

Scholars’ most popular idea for the meaning of the hundreds of “concealed shoes” discovered across the United Kingdom is that they were hidden in homes to defend against bad influences, including demons, ghosts, witches, and familiars. Witches were thought to be “attracted by the human aroma of a shoe, and after inside one found themselves trapped, as they are unable to reverse,” according to author Eamonn P. Kelly in his 2012 Archaeology Ireland paper titled “Trapping Witches in Wicklow.”

The presence of so many anti-witch devices and demon traps suggests that the staircase in this old house was once thought to be a doorway to hell and that previous owners were battling “something” beyond their comprehension that they mistook for something demonic and built a symbolic firewall to protect themselves.

You can follow the restoration of this 1500s North Wales gentry farmhouse on Instagram here:  plas.uchaf

Crossroads magic featured image

Crossroads Magic – Going to the Crossroads

The Magick and Meaning Behind Going to the Crossroads

crossroads magical meaning
According to tradition, a crossroads is a spot “between worlds” where supernatural spirits can be contacted, and paranormal events can occur. Crossroads magic can signify liminality, a place that is “neither here nor there,” “betwixt and between,” and so indicates a point where two worlds collide. While many people think of a crossroads as just the intersection of two highways, they can also be a spot where land and water meet, such as a beach, a place where a field transitions into a forest, or even a doorway. Some people think of a crossroads as a fork in the road where you must choose one way or the other. But a crossroads is really any intersection of of road or passage with two or more branches. Some people prefer to only work with a crossroads that has four paths, creating a cross or ‘X’ pattern.

Crossroads in Greece

In Greek mythology, Crossroads were associated with Hecate and Hermes, and shrines and rites for both were held there. Due to Hermes’ affiliation with travelers and duty as a guide, the herm pillar connected with him was widely used to identify these locations. Though Hecate’s link to crossroads was less well-known in Greek mythology than Hermes’, it was more deeply rooted in ritual. At each new moon, ‘Suppers of Hecate’ were left for her at the crossroads, and she was known as the ‘goddess of the crossroads.’ The three faces of Hecate can be a depiction of the road. Hermes is mentioned in several myths as assisting people during transitions. Similar customs can be found in India, where the god Bhairava is said to guard crossroads, and stone phalluses and eye statues are frequently erected to honor him.

Crossroads in England, Ireland, and Scotland

In the United Kingdom, criminals and suicides were traditionally buried at crossroads. This could be due to the community’s crossroads defining its boundaries, as well as a wish to bury those who broke the law outside the village, or because the multiple routes would confuse the dead. Crossroads were also frequently utilized as a site of criminal punishment and execution (e.g., via gibbet or dule tree), which may have contributed to the fact that suicide was considered a crime. This crossroads burial ceremony dated back to Anglo-Saxon times and was practiced until 1823, when it was discontinued.

magic at the crossroads in hoodooCrossroads Magic In the Hoodoo Tradition

Crossroads magic in hoodoo comes from the Kongo cosmogram in Central Africa, and is used in conjure, rootwork, and hoodoo, a sort of African magical theology practiced by African Americans in the United States. It signifies the sun rising and setting, as well as death and rebirth in human life. The conversation with spirits takes place in the crossroads’ center. The Kongo cosmogram entered the United States by African slaves during the transatlantic slave trade. On slave farms in South Carolina, archeologists discovered images of the Kongo cosmogram on clay pots created by enslaved Africans. The Bakongo cosmogram and the “Yowa” cross are other names for the Kongo cosmogram.

Almost every cultural group in Africa has its own version of the crossroads god. African-diaspora names for the spirit who opens the way, guards the crossroads, and teaches wisdom include Legba, Ellegua, Elegbara, Eshu, Exu, Nbumba Nzila, and Pomba Gira. Both the T and X roads are used in the Quimbanda religious-magical tradition.
T roads are for Pomba gira (npambu nzila), a spirit who deals with sex, lust, and passion. In Quimbanda, the X roads are used for work for Exu (Eshu), a hoodoo man of the crossroads who is identical to the hoodoo man of the crossroads. Road Opening spell work is often associated with the crossroads.

“If ah want tuh go gamblin’, go to a crossroads ‘fore de sunup and have de dice in yore han’s . . . an’ shook dem dice at dat crossroads until de sun gets up where yo’ kin see it” (excerpt, Harry Middleton Hyatt – Hoodoo – Conjuration – Witchcraft – Rootwork)

forked pathCrossroads are thought to be haunted by numerous spirits who delight in perplexing travelers, according to folklore. The meeting and parting of ways, which are frequented by ghosts, devils, the Devil, witches, and fairies, can also be used to summon the same spirits who appear there. The shape of the crossroads can also be exploited to defend against them. The crossroads is used in hedgecraft as a transitional space for traveling to the Otherworld and communicating with spirits. It’s a fantastic location for working with local spirits, Fae, or hedge riding. According to Germanic tradition, you can become Der Teufel’s servant at a crossroads in order to attain your heart’s desire. Christians regard Der Teufel to be the devil. A little sacrifice was necessary to become his temporary servant, but this later changed into the permanent sale of your soul. Witches would gather at the crossroads on Walpurgis Night, most likely to converse with the devil.

W.C. Handy

W.C. Handy composing

Some 20th-century blues songs, such as Black Spider Dumpling’s (John D. Twitty) Sold It to the Devil, may be about making a bargain with the devil at the fork in the road. Many modern listeners consider Robert Johnson’s “Cross Road Blues” to be the best song about soul-selling at a crossroads. According to folklore, Johnson allegedly sold his soul at a crossroads in order to learn to play the guitar.

Another well-known Blues song, recorded by W.C. Handy, alludes to a historical spot in Moorhead, Mississippi, where two train tracks crossed: the Southern Railway and the Yazoo Delta Railroad, often known as “Yellow Dog.” According to legend, while waiting for a train in Mississippi, Handy overheard a guitarist singing and playing in a way he had never heard before. It was Handy’s first experience with the music that would come to be known as Blues. He was affected by the musical style he would soon help to define while at his crossroads—one of intersecting paths. Harry Middleton Hyatt compiled the first large collection of reports of this ceremony done by African Americans in the US South in the 1930s. Many of his informants were not musicians and were looking for other abilities, such as being able to shoot dice and win or being able to tap dance.

Disposing of magic at the crossroads

Crossroads disposal can also be used to dispose of candle wax, ashes from burned incense, petition papers and photographs used in spells, and leftover powders from any ritual that had a negative intent or did not involve you directly. A full raw egg used in a personal cleansing ritual is the only relic of a positive spell traditionally carried to a crossroad and flung into it. The reason the egg should not be buried on your property is that it contains all of the negative influences that were pulled out of the person who was cleansed. Instead, breaking it at a crossroads allows the dark energies to dissipate harmlessly among passing strangers. The same goes for disposing of the water used in a spiritual bath where all the absorbed “bad vibes” are given to the spirits of the crossroads to finalize instead of it resting at your home. We found an interesting article on using conjure to open the roads by our friends at Crescent City Conjure.

In crossroads magic a crossroads is created by drawing a cross in chalk on a roadway (many times an intersection will do), but if no crossroads are available paper must be laid down flat upon the ground and marked instead. After marking the paper, it’s turned up toward the sky, which allows spirits to travel down along it and into this world. The most common method of using the crossroads in hoodoo is for the disposal of used magical items or to nullify magic by leaving the items at the intersection and never looking back.

Crossroads Card in Lenormandcrossroads lenormand card

The crossroads card in the Lenormand card divination system gives you two paths, two solutions to any difficulty. The choices are rarely simple and must be carefully considered. This is the ultimate card of free will, demonstrating that you always have the option of going one way or the other. It also signifies that a decision must be made is you are to move forward. The Crossroads, in general, signifies alternatives, possibilities, and potentials – for example, currently unrealized abilities or yet-to-be-achieved objectives.

You can employ the crossroads magic in your personal practice in a variety of ways, from communing with deities to interacting with spirits. These entryway areas offer a plethora of magical possibilities, many of which aren’t even covered here. On the other hand, Crossroads are not simply geographical locations but also moments, such as nightfall, morning, and turning points in your life or magical practice. Use these times and places to seek protection, commune with your ancestors, leave offerings for a god, clear a blockage, dispose of spell leftovers, banish negativity, create objectives, seek guidance, or conduct any other magic you think acceptable for calling upon the power of the crossroads. The crossroads is the ultimate location for restoration in our lives — it is where therapy and messages are found. There are diverging paths before you, none of which leads back to the past. When we are at the crossroads, we have the opportunity to ask the universe anything.

How to Celebrate Imbolc Candlemas

Celebrating the Pagan Sabbat Imbolc – Candlemas

Ways Pagans celebrated and honored Imbolc – Candlemas

What is Imbolc?

Between Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox is Imbolc (pronounced em-bolg). Imbolc translates roughly to ‘in the belly.’ and signifies the quickening of new life within Mother Earth and coincides with the stirring of the seeds that were planted at Solstice. Occurring sundown February 1st to sundown February 2nd, Imbolc is one of the four fire festivals on the Celtic Wheel of the Year. Evenly spaced throughout the year, these fire festivals mark the sun’s transition through the seasons. The other fire festivals of the Celts are Samhain (October 31st), Beltaine (May 1st), and Lughnasadh (August 1st). While Imbolc is usually celebrated from February 1st to February 2nd, the exact midpoint between the winter solstice and spring equinox, falls around February 6th or 7th. Just as this holiday’s agricultural roots emphasized planting new crops, Imbolc can be when people implement new plans and ideas. Other names for Imbolc are Feast of Waxing Light, Feast of Pan, Feast of Torches, Lupercalia, and Brighid’s (pronounced breed) Day. Wiccans, Druids, and followers of ancient European earth-centric religions celebrate Imbolc. 

Appropriated into Christian practice, Imbolc was syncretized to Candlemas. And, in the modern secular world, it is reworked as Groundhog Day. No matter what name we put upon this part of the year, there is no doubt that we look toward the promise of sunnier days and warmer temperatures, still knowing that nature may have a few chilly surprises for us until the coming of springtime.

bay leaves in snow imbolc

Bay leaves stuck into the snow is said to symbolize the coming of Spring.

Agricultural History of Imbolc

For Celtic peoples, Imbolc marked the time to prepare the fields for the first planting. No longer having to be dependent on stored hay, they put their farm animals out to pasture. They could now air out their barns and homes that had been shuttered throughout the cold winter. Fresh milk flowed because of the newly born animals in the pens. So, this point of the year represented a time of cleansing and rebirth. To celebrate the pregnancy of their farm animals, they held rituals to thank the powerful fire and fertility goddess Brigid. Some historical records show Imbolc marked the first day of ‘ewe’s milk,’ (a translation of one of its alternate names, Oimelc) when sheepherders noticed their animals’ cycles shifting toward lambing. It was believed that in mid-winter, at Imbolc, the cattle would walk knee deep through fresh green grass in preparation for spring. As they ate their way to the ground the land would be fertilized. It was also thought that when you were finished eating your oatmeal on Imbolc morning it would turn into butter before day’s end. 

So, why is new life and springtime associated with this holiday when much of the Northern Hemisphere is still enduring wintery temperatures? You have to consider the pregnancy symbolism associated with Imbolc. New life is within the womb before it is delivered into the world. With this in mind, we can understand Imbolc as a celebration of the life that has not manifested outwardly yet – but we know it’s on the way. 

Goddess Associated with Imbolc

Brighid is a Celtic goddess of fire, information, smithcraft, poetry, healing, midwifery, and divination. She’s also a goddess of home, hearth, and hospitality. As a cleansing and purification rite, priestesses would burn a sacred flame to honor Brighid during Imbolc. In the Roman Pantheon, Brighid corresponds to the goddess Minerva (Greek Athena). It is said that St. Brigid or St. Bridgit (the spellings are interchangeable) restored milk to a neighbor’s livestock out of pity while she was a poor young girl living on a farm.

Saint Brigid Imbolc

Imbolc is the time to honor Saint Brigid

Brigid’s Cross

The Brigid’s Cross is a popular Celtic symbol. It is also known as the Saint Brigid’s Cross. The cross usually consists of three or four interlocking circles that are used to represent the Trinity.

It is said that Saint Brigid, created the original Cross using rushes or reeds from her home. The crosses are made by weaving one reed or rush through another. The number of intertwined rushes in the pattern represent the number of original convents that Brigid founded Saint Brigid’s Cross was also a pagan sign for Brighid and it is said that every woman should have one to protect her during childbirth and while breastfeeding. The cross can be used in magic to bring about changes and to protect against misfortune and can be used as a talisman for travelers, sailors and those who travel long distances by land or sea. The cross should be hung in the home to bring protection and security there. It can also be worn as a pendant.

Easy Ways to Celebrate Imbolc

Mark this critical time of year by planting your garden. Don’t worry if you don’t have a lot of space – even a small windowsill herb garden will work. Because Imbolc is a fire festival that marks the lengthening of the days as light returns, light candles to honor this time. Consider using red or white candles. Red symbolizes blood, which is life. White symbolizes the milk that nourishes life. Cinnamon, a herb with fiery associations, is a great herb to use in your Imbolc celebrations. You can add it to your celebratory foods, or you can burn cinnamon incense to fill your space with the exciting energy of this holiday. Don’t forget to honor the goddess Brigid! A traditional way to honor her is to make a corn husk dolly representing her. Women in the Scottish Highlands made Brigid corn husk dolls and placed them in baskets (representing a bed or baby crib). This evoked symbolism of the mother and daughter archetypes bringing forth life.  

Imbolc Foods

Food was, and is, a popular way to celebrate Imbolc. In homage to the farming roots of Imbolc, indulge (and share, of course) in dairy products, lamb dishes, and mutton. Sheep’s milk cheese is especially appropriate, seeing as it reminds us of how Imbolc marks the time when ewes bore their lambs. Baking bannock bread in honor of Bridget is another tradition. What is bannock bread? Bannock is a type of flat bread, usually round and cooked from grains or oats. A bannock is usually cut into sections before serving. Special bannocks were cooked in the names of rituals and festivals. For Brigid, it was known as “Saint Bride’s bannock.” Today we often jazz up this bannock with dried fruits like figs or raisins.

Simple Bannock Bread

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons baking powder
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • Measure flour, salt, and baking powder into a large bowl. Stir to mix. Pour melted butter and water over flour mixture. Stir with fork to make a ball.
  • Turn dough out on a lightly floured surface, and knead gently about 10 times. Pat into a flat circle 3/4 to 1 inch thick.
  • Cook in a greased frying pan over medium heat, allowing about 15 minutes for each side. Use two lifters for easy turning. May also be baked on a greased baking sheet at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 25 to 30 minutes.
    Rosemary bannock bread

    This picture is of rosemary bannock bread by Gather Victoria where they discuss ancestral food and magical cooking. Click picture to visit their site for this recipe.

love spell ingredients and herbs

Love Spell Ingredients – What Herbs, Roots, and Flowers to Use in Your Love Magick Rituals

Love Spell Ingredients – What Herbs, Roots, and Flowers to Use in Your Love Magick Rituals

The Ways Flowers and Herbs have Been Used for Love Spells Over the Centuries

Herbs, roots, and flowers have long played a role in the art of casting love spells. Just like love itself, love magick is a delicate balance of give and take – and so are the ingredients used in casting spells of passion, love, and lust. The Romans were especially fond of basil and burned the dry leaves to attract love to them.

roses in love spells

rose petals are probably the most commonly-used ingredient in love spells

The Victorians used the language of flowers to convey their feelings to another by way of nosegays, also called tussie-mussies. Initially carried to fight off disease, these little, round bouquets of flowers and herbs were carried to send a message, depending on what flowers were included – lavender for loving devotion, bay leaves for fidelity, thyme for deep friendship, and so on. For centuries, folklore and mythology the world over have made mention of the symbolism of flowers. These meanings from many cultures are partly responsible for the ingredients used in magick and spellwork. Plants, minerals, barks, and some animal bones have historical associations with certain emotions, moon phases, seasons, and even predictions and omens. This is how we came to know which ingredients to use when casting a spell. These long-understood meanings are why thousands of men buy their love roses on Valentine’s Day – not a cactus or a bundle of ragweed.

Herbs and Ingredients to Use in Your Love Magick

Here are 25 ingredients that can be used in your rituals. Each of these herbs, plants, and ingredients has a unique property that can be beneficial in magic and love spells.

Adam & Eve root – Adam and Eve roots come from the roots of the Orchid plant. The ‘male’ roots are more elongated and usually the older ones while the ‘female’ root is rounded in shape and comes from younger ones. They are used in pairs for love work to make a relationship more committed and secure. For this reason, many people turn to Adam and Eve roots for strengthening a marriage.

Balm of Gilead – said to ease the pain of a broken heart and to comfort those in need. Since it is known for calming arguments, it is often used in magic dealing with reconciling two people, bringing peace to a troubled marriage, and helping to make a couple’s home peaceful again.

Basil – used in spells of love to make emotions sweeter, it is often called upon to bring arguments to an end and dissipate negative emotions between two lovers. Often used for luck.

Bay Leaf – this well-known culinary herb was once used to crown Greek victors. Brings protection, success, and visions. It can magically be used as an alternative to petition paper, similar to the way some write on the bark. Can be used as a jinx deterrent by placing in the four corners of your property, your house, or a room.

Blood root – a native plant to the Americas, bloodroot was used by Native Americans to create dye but also for love. Magically, it is a marriage protector and aids in promoting harmony among family members, especially in-laws, to help prevent them from interfering in your marriage. Sew inside the pillowcases of you and your spouse if you feel someone is trying to disrupt your marriage.

Buckeye – carried to bring you money, good luck, and has also been used by some in divination by turning the buckeye into a pendulum. In the hoodoo, it is said to keep your pockets full of money. In the love department, it can be used as a charm for male potency, to protect your relationship, and to heat up the passion between two people.

Catnip – used in spells for joy, contentment, and beauty. It has been used to make another fall for you with its powers of attraction. In attraction spells, it is meant to draw people to you and have them bask in the glow of your company.

Coffee bean – increases powers of persuasion. Often used to stimulate spells and potions to make results happen faster. Used as an ingredient in passion spells to increase male desire. Damiana – the herb of passion that sparks new interest in your sex life; it is known as the ‘love herb.’ Is used in all kind of magick that deal with sexuality, stamina, and virility.

Deer’s Tongue – used in opening up communication, which is good for solid relationships. Can be used in drawing a love interest towards you.

Dixie John – used for matters of love and family, it is also called Southern John or Low John. If an interloper threatens your marriage, Dixie John is said to drive them away. Also known by the names Beth root, Red Trillium, and Wake Robin. Said to be good for the sex life.

Honeysuckle – the sweet scent of honeysuckle is said to bind a lover to you. Because it draws things near, many use it with green candles and the herb alfalfa to draw in more money. Some use honeysuckle oil to increase their psychic abilities by anointing the forehead.

Hydrangea – often used in love magic as a replacement for Queen Elizabeth Root. Widely known as an unhexing plant that can be worn on yourself or scattered around the house. Some burn the root to rid a property of a jinx or curse. Use during uncrossing spells to help put up an extra barrier between you and the person you are trying to break free from.

Jezebel root – Jezebel Root is any of five species of Louisiana Iris, including; Iris fulva, Iris hexagona, Iris brevicaulis Iris giganticaerulea, and Iris nelsonii. Originally used by prostitutes to get paying clients, it is more modernly used to get money out of a stingy man. Many exotic dancers carry it on them to increase their tips. Another name for it is Painted Whore.

using lavender in love spells

Lavender is often included in love spells, but it also helps strengthen the bonds between friends

Lavender – Lavender is a flower of friendship and harmony. It’s often included in love spells, but it also helps strengthen the bonds between friends with its calming effects to assist you while sleeping or focusing on something else like scrying. Worn as an amulet against cruelty from spouse and protection against nightmares due to their powerful fragrance helping keep away evil thoughts/dreams, it is associated with the third-eye chakra and used to center the mind.

Lodestone’s magnetic powers draw in the things you desire, such as power, luck, money, and love. Can help to attract and bring into your life the things you want. Also known as a grounding stone.

Lovage – used in glamour and magic of allure, lovage is popular for getting people to notice you. Used not only in spells of attraction, it is also used to make you more attractive to those around you. Also associated with psychic dreaming and purification.

Magnolia leaves – increases love and loyalty and encourages fidelity by placing under your mattress or under the bed. Used to solidify your commitment to each other. Can also be used in a controlling manner to keep a man from performing for no one else but his wife or partner.

Marigold (calendula, aka pot marigold) – marigolds can be added to a magical bath for attraction and confidence, helping you to win over the respect and admiration of everyone you meet. Also used to create a happy, warm, and sunny atmosphere in the home.

Patchouli – considered an aphrodisiac, patchouli is often associated with love and passion in relationships. While some might consider it a masculine scent, it is considered gender-neutral in magic. Also a popular ingredient in money magic.

Queen Elizabeth root – from the rhizome of an iris plant, it is also known as Orris root. Traditionally, a woman would carry the root to attract a man and have him fall madly in love with her. Good for matters of communication and helps to promote success and popularity.

Raccoon Penis Bone – also known as a love bone, it was an old Southern custom, most often used in Hoodoo, for a man to give one to a woman to show his intentions of love to her. An alternative would be for the man to bury the bone beside or beneath her porch to convince her to love him. Can also be tied underneath a bed to heat up the passion between two people by amplifying sexual pleasure.

Rose – used to induce dreams of one’s future love. The main ingredient used in love spells. For emotions and divinity. To build a long-lasting relationship.

Tonka bean – associated with the planet Venus, carry a tonka bean with you to attract love and romance. Some choose to carry 3, 5, or 7 beans corresponding to how many days they wish to draw out their attraction spell by carrying that many beans in their pocket then placing them under the bed in the evening. (considered toxic to consume in the U.S., also be careful around pets if you plan to place them under the bed)

Verbena – used for drawing in new love and bringing your inner beauty to the surface. Verbena was wildly popular in the Victorian era as an ingredient in perfumes, which led to its association and connection to beauty. On the flip side, it is sometimes used for breaking a curse or as an ingredient in break-up spells.

Violet leaf – when it comes to love work, violet leaf is used to heal a broken heart. Many use it for peace, creativity, and for attracting prophetic dreams. In love, it could be focused on having your dream about your future partner.

violet flowers and leaves for love

There are a wide variety of ingredients used for love spells not mentioned here, all used for a broad range of conditions that deal with love: passion, fidelity, marriage, pure lust, fertility, and attraction. The 25 we showcased above should give you a running start on casting that spell to bring you lasting love and romance.

For spells to use these ingredients in, try the book Casting Love Spells – Rituals of Love, Passion, and Attraction. 

The Green Man

The Green Man – Celebrating and Honoring the Greenman

The Green Man – Celebrating and Honoring the Greenman

Who is the Green Man?

The Green Man is a powerful nature deity. Worshipers have been paying homage to him for centuries, even millennia. He seems to have been around from when the first plants grew on Earth, and he was there when life began crawling out of the seas four billion years ago. It is unclear exactly how long humans have worshiped this deity, but we know that offerings were made to him in Britain during Roman times. He is a symbol often seen in architecture and design.

The Symbol of the Greenman

green man painting

Painting titled, “Dan the Green Man” by artist Ruby Shepard

The Green Man symbolizes seasonal renewal and ecological awareness for many modern Pagans. He can take many forms, such as naturalistic or decorative carvings, with the simplest depicting a man’s face peeking out from amongst foliage-adorned branches onto which he has grown a beard made up mostly of leaves. Some examples show him wearing clothes made entirely of vines. In Europe, there is a long tradition of carving green men onto Christian churches. One example can be found in Cyprus where seven men are carved on the facade of St Nicholas Church during thirteenth-century renovations to create an emotional link between Saint Nicodemus and his flock through this fertility symbol. In Wicca, he’s often used to represent the Horned God – which incorporates aspects from Celtic Cernunnos or Greek Pan, among others.

Celebrating the Green Man

Green man diety soap

Green Man specialty soap crafted by aromaG’s Botanica

There is an old English folk custom called Jack in the Green, which was a part of May Day celebrations. Developed during the 18th century, a wicker or wooden cage-like frame was created to be worn then covered in greenery so that the wearer could dance about at the front of the parade to celebrate the day. It would have appeared more like a bush or tree than what we might think of as a Green man costume. It was a development from an earlier custom where milkmaids would adorn their buckets with flowers and greenery for the time of Beltane (May Day.) Later, this greenery was worn as masks until finally the Jack o’ the Green tradition emerged. In a 1939 article by Julie Somerset (aka Lady Raglan), it was proposed that the Jack in the Green was associated with the depictions of the green man found on medieval churches. Founded in 2003, There is an annual Green Man Festival that celebrates science, music, and the arts, and is held every August in Brecon Beacon, Wales.

One may debate whether or not this deity is truly one entity or if it’s actually many different beings who share a common bond through their ties to plant life. However, we can agree that anyone who pays homage to the Greenman strongly attaches to nature. Today the world over, people still celebrate their respect for his power by building monuments in his image and making offerings to him.

How to Worship and Make Offerings to the Greenman

greenman wall plaque

A Green Man wall plaque

Worship of The Green Man is easy and practical for today’s busy world. Anyone can take time out of their routine to show their love and respect for this deity. They need only meditate on images of him or images with symbols representing his powers and offer thanks and praise where thanks and praise are due. Here we shall discuss just how one might go about paying homage to the Green Man, beginning with offerings:

One very simple way to honor The Green Man would be to place an offering close by while you take a walk outside (or at least away from your home). While walking, pick up anything green such as a leaf, blade of grass, weed, etc. Place this in a pocket or bag with an apple or some other food item that is living and green. When you return home from your walk, take the offerings out of your pocket or bag and place them in a bowl or basket on your altar, where you pay homage to The Green Man. Burn incense over the offerings while thanking him for the revelry he provides us by allowing us access to his wisdom through nature. Afterward, simply eat what is left over of the offerings as they are now blessed offerings to The Green Man. You can use essential oils or incense as offerings to the Green Man. Essential oils & incense associated with the Green Man are vetiver, cinnamon, sweet birch, oakmoss, and patchouli.

Another way one might make offerings is by going into their backyard alone at night after everyone else has gone to bed, turning off all artificial lighting (save for your offerings), and placing offerings in the grass or on a shrub. One might place offerings of flowers, leaves, fruit, fresh herbs, etc., anywhere they please, but a common space to do this would be an outdoor altar one might construct for this specific purpose (and decorate it with all things green).

greenman soap

another Green Man hand-painted speciality soap by aromaG’s

You may also wish to pick a large tree that seems strong and sturdy and climb up into it enough to find yourself surrounded by vines and branches. Place offerings here while seeking The Green Man’s wisdom regarding any worries you have been having lately. Afterward, give thanks to him for his time and inspiration through nature before coming down from the tree or taking offerings back home with you. Some people honor him by planting a tree.

Another common practice is to make offerings to The Green Man, starting with the new moon each month. Fill up a vase or jar with spring water and add several drops of wine (or liquid representations of blood such as red juices). Add offerings such as fresh fruit, seasonal herbs, flowers, etc. Pull back the curtains in your home so that there is no darkness for at least four feet all around you. Stand in front of this open area with offerings in hand while naming things you are grateful for. Afterward, thank The Green Man for his time and pay homage to him before placing offerings outside under a tree or shrub where animals and insects can properly enjoy them.

The Green Man

original artwork of the Greenman by Nashville artist.

An easy, readymade way to honor the Green Man is to light up one of our Green Man candles. It’s a perfect way to pay respect to his power and influence. Or, consider anointing your body (i.e. wrists, forehead, neck) with our Green Man oil.

There is an interesting article from the New Yorker titled, The Remarkable Persistence of the Green Man.

free spell for honest communication

Honest Communication Spell

Honest Communication Spell

This spell is used when communication between you and your partner has become dishonest or hostile. Use it to call upon honest communication between you and another.

Write each of your names on two small slips of paper. Take a decorative, fire-safe bowl and place slips of paper in the bottom. Add a teaspoon of powdered sage on top

blue bowl communication spell

pick a bowl that fits your decor. Remember, blue is the color of communication

of the name papers. Choose an attractive bowl that will go well with your decor, something you find appealing and looks like it belongs in the room. Fill 3/4 of the way up with sand. Add a teaspoon of salt and sugar and mix into the sand.

You will use this bowl as an incense burner. Put incense sticks standing straight up in the sand. Keep this incense bowl in the same room where you usually have conversations. The smoke from the incense signifies air and free-flowing honest communication. The sage in the bottom of the bowl will keep your words honest.

Optionally, you can place a few blue stones, such as lapis on top of the sand. Blue is the color of communication and the throat chakra.

Doorway & Boundary Charm Spell

DOORWAY & BOUNDARY CHARM SPELL

This Doorway & Boundary charm spell is used to keep evil away from your house and invite the good inside. Call in blessings and banish negativity with…

WHAT YOU WILL NEED:
¼ cup sugar
¼ cup salt
2 small jars
1 white chime candle
1 black chime candle
Devil Begone sachet powder
House Blessing sachet powder
2 cross charms
Blue embroidery thread

Fill one jar with sugar and the other with salt. To the sugar jar, add one Tablespoon of House Blessing Sachet powder. Then, in the jar of salt, add one Tablespoon of Devil Begone sachet powder. Stir each one well until the sachet powders are mixed in thoroughly.

Now, place one cross charm in the sugar jar and screw on the lid. Next, put the other cross in the salt jar and screw on the lid. You are now going to burn the white candle on top of the jar of sugar and the black candle on top of the jar of salt.

Miraculous Cross charmThe next day, open the jars and take out the charm crosses and set them aside. Take the jar of salt to the end of your driveway and begin throwing handfuls into the street. When you have finished, take the jar of sugar, go to the end of the driveway – but this time, turn and face your house and begin throwing handfuls up the driveway while walking towards the house until you return to your doorway.

When you have finished, take the embroidery thread and cut a piece off about 6 feet long. Double it over to make it a thicker, 3 foot long piece. Then tie both of the crosses onto the thread. Nail the thread in the doorway in the space between the front door and the storm door (or where a storm door would normally be.) If this is not possible where you live, hang on a nail or tack just inside your front door. This charm will keep the bad out and invite the good in.

This doorway spell was shared by Papa Gee on an episode of the Lucky Mojo Hoodoo Rootwork Hour: Amulets Charms & Talismans episode with Catherine Yronwode and Papa Gee on 8/22/21

Protection Against Ghosts and Ghouls in Appalachian Folk Magic

Appalachian Folk Magic – Protection from Ghosts & Ghouls

Protection from Ghosts and Ghouls in Appalachian Folk Magic

For the Appalachian folk magic practitioner, the otherworld is all around us. We exist in a world inhabited by little people, ghosts, spirits, demons, and angels. Yet, most people are taught to deny the existence of the otherworld and its entities from the time we are small children. Following in the footsteps of their Celtic ancestors, Appalachian folk magic practitioners regard natural openings or doorways as sacred places — the portals between worlds. Caves, lakes, stones with naturally occurring holes (holey or hag stones), graveyards, and mountain tops are all believed to be places where one can glimpse into the spiritual world. Since the spirituality of the Appalachian folk magic practitioner is so far interwoven with nature it would be incorrect to think of this spirituality as an organized system of mystical beliefs or practices. It is looking at nature differently, appreciating all that God created – both the everyday and the mysterious.

Protection Against Ghosts and Ghouls in Appalachian Folk MagicThe otherworld is populated with various kinds of entities that are seldom regarded as spiritual beings. They are more often thought of as creatures or animals. The Appalachian folk magic practitioner regards these entities as being less evolved than the human race, but none-the-less deserving of respect. This can be seen in how Appalachian folk magic practitioners relate to their animal familiars — even if the familiar was once a person who was somehow transformed into an animal through magical means. The otherworld also contains good and bad faeries (a form of little people), elves, dwarves, trolls, giants, witches (good or evil), angels or fairies masquerading as people, ghosts (usually deceased family members) that will sometimes linger near their graves, and ancestral spirits who may dwell in an old home place or other location where they once lived. These entities can interfere with individuals, groups of people, or even whole communities. Appalachian folk magic practitioners work to protect themselves, their family members, neighbors (or community), livestock (and crops) from the harmful influences of these otherworld entities by employing various types of charms and spells.

One example is a spell intended to prevent a witch from bewitching a child. It is called “binding” in the vernacular of local tradition:

A Witch’s Binding Spell

Take nine stalks of red thread that has been braided together and tie nine knots in it while saying: “As I knot this string so I knot you three times three. I bewitch you witch and none can do so more.” Place the knotted string in a tree for nine days or until it rots away completely.

These folk magic herbal charms often employ natural objects such as roots, herbs, stones, bottles, animal skulls etc., to provide physical evidence of their magical power. Another example can be in this charm for protection against witches (who are thought to be human-like creatures that possess the power to assume animal forms at will):

An Appalachian Charm Against Witches

At midnight on a Saturday take seven hairs from the mane of a black cat and tie them together with threeProtection Against Ghosts and Ghouls in Appalachian Folk Magic knots, saying “As this hair is knotted so I knot you. As this knot is tied so I bind you.” The remainder of the hairs are carried in one’s pocket or purse where they are believed to protect against witches coming near the person who carries them.

These hill-folk practitioners also use various colored candles strategically placed around their homes for protection against evil entities that may try to enter through doorways or windows. If there is a window above a doorway in which a person has been sleeping, a green candle should be lit on the other side of the window to protect him or her from harm caused by ghosts and ghouls who may want to enter through that doorway. Another method is to place a black candle within a circle of salt to keep evil entities away from its position for as long as it burns.

To Calm a Fussy Baby

To quiet a crying baby one would hold a lit candle over a vessel containing water while concentrating on what was wanted (such as peace and tranquility) while dripping the melting wax into the water. The vessel is usually kept near where the baby sleeps; other times it might be placed under its crib or chair.

Appalachian practitioners worked to protect themselves, their family members, neighbors (or community), livestock (and crops) from the harmful influences of these otherworld entities by employing various types of charms and spells, almost always from materials found right there in the hills.

Here are some featured products centering around Appalachian Folk Magic…

See more here!

If you want to learn more about Appalachia, take a look at the The Official Magazine of Appalachian State University

Winter Weather Predictions In The South – Appalachian Folklore

Folklore on How to predict a hard winter in the South

There is much Appalachian and Southern folklore around ways to look to nature to determine how hard the winter will be. Among these observations, the monarch butterfly holds a special place in Southern folklore.

When nature puts on its fall finery and when we see monarch butterflies fluttering about amongCardinal Birds in a Winter scene summer flowers, we may very well feel that the worst of winter is yet to come. Yet no matter how hard winter may be or how long it may last in our area, one day in early spring we’ll surely notice several signs: beechnuts are abundant for wildlife; storms seem milder than usual; insects are active throughout the day. We know then that the worst has passed and that at least this year’s cycle of seasons will soon draw to a close.

Some of them include:

– the number of fogs in August. For every fog we have in August, that will be a day of snow.

– Wooly worms which range from an amber color to variegated to black, an amber band around the center means a mild winter and a solid black one predicts a hard winter. Historically, this has been found to be about 80% accurate.

– If squirrels are very active gathering up nuts like chestnuts and walnuts quickly, it is a sign of a longer winter

– If the locally grown onions and corn have thicker skins and husks than normal, the more layers you’ll need to put on this coming winter.

– “See how high the hornet’s nest, ‘twill tell how high the snow will rest.”

– Frequent Halos or Rings Around the Sun or Moon Forecasts Numerous Snowfalls

-The thickness of the husk on chestnuts, which will appear thicker when a tough winter is coming. This works to an extent, but usually only one year in four or five has a really hard winter.

-In autumn, harvest grapes from vines that have been undisturbed for several years and count the number of rotations the sun makes around the patch of earth where they grow. If you get more than 255 rotations before a killing frost, you can expect a very cold winter. As it turns out, if you get fewer than 90 rotations–the weather should be milder still.

-If oak leaves are red in September, there will be a hard winter. But if oak leaves are green in September, the winter will be mild and gentle.

-An increase in the number of wasps and hornets in September indicates a harsh winter to come.

-The amount of sun or cloudiness on Halloween determines what the weather will be like for the rest of the winter. If it’s sunny, there will be no more snow; if cloudy, expect an average winter; if it rains on Halloween, there will be a lot of snow over the next several months.

-If animals tend to get frisky before a hard winter, don’t put your stockings up yet! A “jumping” mouse is a sure sign that you’ll have a tough ride ahead. Pig mating season is another good predictor: it starts earlier and is more frequent and intense when the weather is going to be cold.

– How many nuts or acorns a squirrel stores away in his den indicates how tough it will be the coming winter. If he has prepared for a goodly deep snow, we can prepare accordingly; if there seems to be little preparation, we can expect only the average type of winter.

– If oak leaves curl up and fall early in September, then harsh weather will come before Halloween.

– The intensity of spiderwebs spun late in the year indicates how bad the following winter will be: spiders tend to weave thinner webs when they’re expecting foul weather ahead than when they expect warmer times to follow.

– Look closely tree bark for signs of buckling and twisting by the bark of White birch, Sweet gum, and Tulip poplar; this is a sure sign that severe cold is coming.

– If the forest floor has plants blooming in September, it’s an early warning signal of a hard winter ahead. Mushrooms like morels grow only after there’s been a good soaking of rain during low temperatures; this weather pattern often coincides with harsh winters.

– A change in the color and quality of grasses and weeds signals whether or not the following winter will be mild: tough stuff indicates bitter cold to come, while tender shoots indicate an early springtime.

These were some of the most common signs that foreshadow winter that we Southerners look for. Remember, these are not foolproof indicators and they don’t always work as predicted.

Find some more folkloric signs about winter from the Farmer’s Almanac here, and don’t forget to find some more Southern folklore here, or prep for winter with some of your favorite aromaG’s candles and teas.

But with all this information at your fingertips, what would you do to prepare for winter? Do you have any other traditions or superstitions about the winter season?

Anointing Oils - Mixing Magic in a Bottle

Anointing Oils – Mixing Magic in a Bottle

What is a Magickal Anointing Oil?

Magickal anointing Oils, potions, and magical concoctions are found throughout literature and have been used for spiritual purposes since before recorded history. They have been used to anoint Kings and priests, to cleanse sacred objects, to ensure a pregnancy, and to heal wounds and broken hearts. You can use magical oils within witchcraft, hoodoo, or any other spiritual path & practice. When you blend oils with herbs, roots, and minerals for a spiritual or magickal purpose, you are basically mixing up magic in a bottle.

Combining the Magickal Use with Aromatherapy

In the Hoodoo tradition the creation of oils is used for anointing the body, candles, and objects to cleanse or bring about change. Learning the basics of aromatherapy and essential oils will give you a deeper understanding of the ingredients that go into making a spiritual oil. You will then know the magical use of each essential oil in a blend, but also the aromatherapeutic benefit and the physical reactions it causes to the mind and body. For example, geranium oil is typically used in love condition oils, but it also aids in skin problems.

Not surprisingly, these benefits often cross over from the practical to the magical side with little effort. Let’s take lavender, for example. Lavender is often associated with love spells and to bring about peace and a sense of calm. In aromatherapy, it is used for calming and for relaxation. In the chakra system, it is associated with the 7th chakra – the crown chakra where peace and a connection to the universe and God are experienced. In Hoodoo, it is not only used for love but also for creating floor washes that are intended to bring peace into the home. Many Voodoo recipes use lavender for peace, clarity, and psychic blessings. So, whether it is used in aromatherapy, witchcraft, the chakra system, or a folk magic service, the benefits are the same — to bring about a sense of peace and harmony.

Anointing Oils in the Bible

So, what is anointing? What does it mean to be anointed? The New Testament Greek words for “anoint” are chrio, meaning “to smear or rub with oil” and, by association, “to consecrate for office or religious service”; and aleipho, which means “to anoint.” Biblically speaking, people were anointed with oil to imply God’s blessing or mark that person’s calling in life. One was anointed for a special purpose – to be a king, to be a prophet, etc. In Christian religions that use anointing oil, it is understood that the oil alone has no power. Anointing oils are made according to scriptural specifications, taken from the word of God. Therefore, only God can anoint someone for a religious purpose.

Probably the most well-known account of the use of an anointing oil is the biblical story of Samuel and David. Samuel was known as “the Prophet” and had anointed Saul as the first King of Israel. Before a campaign against the Philistines, Saul was waiting for Samuel to arrive and offer sacrifices to seek God’s favor. When Samuel didn’t appear as soon as he expected, Saul offered these sacrifices himself, assuming the privileges of a priest. When Samuel arrived, he informed Saul, “You have done a foolish thing,” using the Hebrew term ‘fool’ for people who act without regard for God. Samuel denounces Saul, telling him that his descendants will not rule in his place.

At a later date, Saul was given another assignment by God, to destroy the Amalekites. Saul, however, failed this second chance given to him by God by disobeying instructions. The Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king.” The story continues with Saul evaluating each of the sons based on their appearance, contemplating which one would make a good king. However, God chose David, the youngest of the sons. Then the Lord said, “Rise and anoint him; this is the one.” So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David.

Anointing or Condition Oils in Hoodoo

Anointing Oils - Mixing Magic in a Bottle

In the Hoodoo tradition, anointing oils are mainly known as “condition oils,” as each one is formulated to tackle a particular condition (problem, a state of mind or body) that a person is experiencing. You will usually only find this term in Hoodoo and conjure practices where the oils are used to anoint the body, candles for rituals, and practical spell casting. While, historically, most practitioners of Hoodoo are Christian, the concept of where the power of the oil comes from is slightly different: It is the combination of the correct herbs, flowers, minerals, and curios that come together to create an oil that is capable of magical change. Many bless the oils after they are made or petition God, ancestors, or distinct Saints to bring forth their blessings to complete the process.

The primary benefits of using anointing oils, besides the physical ones such as relaxation and overall well-being (i.e., for use in aromatherapy), are:

  • Protection from evil, accidents, negative things or people; brings about a feeling of safety
  • Can be used to repel enemies or ward off evil spirits
  • Can be used to protect a place or person at any time
  • Can be used in spells and rituals to bring about manifestation of your desires
  • Use it before praying to strengthen your connection with God/the Divine/Your Angels/Higher Self/Spirit Guides/Saints etc.
  • Anoint candles or other tools used for spell work.
  • To remove hexes or break spells that have been put on you or the home/business.

Anointing oils are made using essential oils, carrier oils, herbs and sometimes stones depending upon what is appropriate for each one. The blends can be customized to your needs, either by your own intuition or by asking God, your angels, saints, etc., which combination is best for you at this time. Each anointing oil has its own prayer to petition the divine powers to bless it so it will bring forth its desired effects when used by anyone who aligns themselves with its purpose.

Uses in Witchcraft and Pagan paths

In Witchcraft and some Pagan religions, oils are used not only in spell work but also a celebration. Some use different oils to mark the turning of theAnointing Oils - Mixing Magic in a Bottle Wheel of the Year. In the Spring, flowers are most often used. Summer is a time of green leaves and fruits. In Autumn, the choices are usually spices and barks. Pure plant oils are considered to be a way to connect with the very nature they come from, bringing more power and connection to spells and magical workings.

You will notice that in many Pagan and witchcraft traditions, magic is spelled with a ‘k’ inserted to differentiate from what most consider to be stage magic. The magic they do is not separate or different than what anyone else can do magically. The tools (i.e., oils, herbs) are merely helpful catalysts to bring forth the power of intent more quickly and with greater effect.

Anointing oil can be made using pure plant essences or by using an infused carrier oil base which you make yourself at home easily. When choosing your herbs for each type of oil use ones that correspond to purpose (i.e., protection, money drawing etc.). For this type of spell work it’s ideal to keep all ingredients natural unless you know what you are doing in terms of magical herbalism; some concoctions that look harmless may end up causing harm if ingested internally or used topically on the body.

How to Make Your Own Anointing Oils

  • Mix ingredients together in a dark glass bottle (i.e., brown or blue) with glass dropper if available. If you can’t find one, use cork or wooden stopper and keep the oil away from heat and direct sunlight. The darker the glass, the better, as light can damage some oils over time; this is why most pharmacies keep their medications in dark bottles only. You can also store your anointing oils in small tins that are made for perfumes but make sure they seal properly before using them to prevent leakage which can ruin anything it comes into contact with (counters, clothes etc.).
  • If you are making an oil for protection, use protective herbs such as bay laurel, rosemary or angelica. Protective essential oils can also be added to the mix if preferred.
  • If you are making an oil for wealth, use basil leaves, coriander seeds and/or cinnamon bark. The same goes for prosperity essential oils or extracts.
  • Anoint candles with it before burning them during spell work for increased manifestation of your desires into physical form through sacred fire. They can also be used to dress an altar to ensure safety thereon after being consecrated with the intention that only positive, loving energies will manifest there so all who come in will feel its safety and peace therein.

As you can see, oils play many different roles in rituals and traditions across the world. Whether they are used to anoint a king or prophet, as condition oil for hoodoo spells, or part of magical workings with witchcraft-the power is derived from the unique ingredients that combine together to create them. The choice of which one (or more) may be right for your own tradition depends on why you want it and how you plan to use it.

See some of our featured products below, and our magical oils for sale here!

There are some good magical oils recipes over at Learn Religions in their Magical Oils 101 article.

what is hoodoo featured image

What is Hoodoo?

What is Hoodoo?

What is hoodoo? Hoodoo is a unique form of American folk magic. Often called by other names including rootwork, conjure, and laying tricks. It’s based in African magic, melded with Native American medicines and European culture, to create something uniquely American and uniquely Southern.

The Roots of Hoodoo

Hoodoo is a unique form of American folk magic. Before the internet and our widespread access to information and technology, it was mainly found in the South. Even today, its Southern roots hold firm. Its heritage is African magic. When the Africans were broughthoodoo african slave trade to America during the Transatlantic slave trade, they brought with them their spirituality, their deities, their strong belief in ancestor worship, and their magical rituals and customs. However, they no longer had access to their homeland plants. This is how Native American herbal medicine made its way into the customs of the Africans. Over time, African-Americans incorporated some elements of the European culture, such as occultism and mysticism. With these three belief systems combined, time and practice created this unique form of American folk magic. Hoodoo is often called by other names including rootwork, conjure, and laying tricks. A practitioner is sometimes called a conjureman (or woman), a rootworker, or a two-headed doctor.

West and Central Africans all brought from Africa their own forms of conjure. Despite this ethnic diversity on American plantations, they pooled together their customs and beliefs into the practice. As recently as the 1950s, practitioners of hoodoo in New Orleans reported having to hide their magical practices because they feared oppression by Christians who would see their practices as Pagan or Satanic.

hot foot hoodoo oil

Hot Foot oil used in hoodoo to drive away an enemy

The purpose of Hoodoo was to give power to the powerless. It was a way to access the supernatural to improve their circumstances, bringing good fortune and luck in love, money matters, good health, protection, and even gambling. Similar to other types of folk magic, Hoodoo includes the use of herbs, roots, minerals, animal bones, graveyard dirt, the personal possessions of another, and bodily fluids into the practice. As time went on, pharmacies began carrying products that their black customers sought out and began producing goods and oils such as “Money Drawing” and “Love Attracting” as well as candles and incense for “Fast Luck” and others for gambling, protection, and unhexing. As these products grew in popularity, they began finding their way into catalogs and magazines where the merchandise could be purchased through mail order.

New Orleans Voodoo – a Hoodoo Variation

Some have referred to Hoodoo as the “country cousin” of Voodoo or Vodou. The slave owners oppressed the African religions and cultures, insisting the slaves become Christian. As a result, the slaves adopted the Catholic saints into their culture to stand in for their own deities and spirits – usually ones whose domain was the same or similar to their own. Louisiana Voodoo is often confused with Haitian Vodou and Deep Southern Hoodoo. While Louisiana Voodoo is strong among the Catholic population in Louisiana, most practitioners of Hoodoo have historically (mainly since the 19th century) been Protestant Christians. Moses was seen as the greatest conjureman of all time. But to many, New Orleans Voodoo is considered its own special brand of magic – not Vodou and not Hoodoo, but contains quite a bit of both.

In New Orleans, conjuration was a common practice because it gave people the ability tohoodoo and conjure in Louisiana seek justice. It has been argued that this is one of the reasons that New Orleans became a melting pot for different cultures and faiths including Catholics, Protestants, Jews, Muslims and others. People from all over came to Louisiana knowing they could find something familiar.

Conjure doctors became a common practice in the city because of its high immigrant population and the desire to seek justice. There were even times when these types of practices were used by white plantation owners and their families, as well as wealthy white New Orleanians who had African American servants they wanted to make sure remained loyal.

Crossroads Magic

The crossroads is a symbol of the meeting of two worlds, and in hoodoo crossroads magic is often used to make contact with the spirit world. In fact, crossroads magic can be used for any reason at all that you would want to call on spirits from the other side, such as communication between seemingly warring factions or obtaining information from beyond.

crossroads in hoodoo

the crossroads is a spiritual place in the hoodoo tradition

In crossroads magic a crossroads is created by drawing a cross in chalk on a roadway (many times an intersection will do), but if no crossroads are available paper must be laid down flat upon the ground and marked instead. After marking the paper, it’s turned up toward the sky, which allows spirits to travel down along it and into this world. The most common method of using the crossroads in hoodoo is for the disposal of used magical items or to nullify magic by leaving the items at the intersection and never looking back. See our full article about Crossroads magic.

Mojo Bags

In the Hoodoo tradition, we customarily use the term ‘mojo bag, ’ but it can be called by many other names: a mojo hand, gris-gris bag, toby, or trick bag. The word ‘gris-gris’ means charm or fetish. The reason behind why a mojo bag would be considered a fetish

mojo bags are a major part of hoodoo

mojo bags

is because practitioners of hoodoo consider it to be a living thing. Inside there may be a variety of ingredients: herbs, minerals, bones, flowers, and sometimes personal items like a locket of hair. When made for a specific purpose or person, a mojo bag usually contains a petition (a written prayer or intention). Some people use an actual drawstring bag to create their mojo. One method is what is known as a ‘flaming comet’ style mojo bag where a square of flannel is gathered up around the ingredients and tied off with string or twine. It should be made small enough to carry on your person. After it is created, it is fed with a liquid of some sort. While many use Florida water cologne or some other type of alcohol, others prefer to feed the bag with condition oil — one that corresponds to the nature of the mojo bag.

ORIGINS, VARIATIONS, AND DETAILS

A gris-gris bag is an amulet that originated in West Africa, specifically Ghana. Like a mojo bag, it also contained a number of objects such as stones, bones, oils, and herbs that combined to provide protection against bad luck and the evil eye.

The mojo bag used in hoodoo originated in the Bantu-Kongo. Toby, the name of mojo bags, derives from the Kongo word “tobe.” The Kikongo word “mooyo” is also the source of the term “mojo.” According to the definition of “mooyo,” natural materials have their own innate spirits that can be used in mojo bags to invoke luck and protection. The Bantu-Kongo “minkisi” served as the basis for the mojo bag or conjure bag. When a spirit or spirits occupy an object made by hand by a person, it is referred to as “nkisi” in the singular and “minkisi” in the plural. These items can include gourds, shells, bags (also known as conjure bags or mojo bags), and other containers. To give a bag a certain personality or function, several items are placed inside of it. The Nganga spiritual healer fills mojo bags and “minkisis” with graveyard dirt, herbs, roots, and other things. In African American communities, rootworkers and Hoodoo doctors replaced the spiritual priests of Central Africa. As both are fed offerings with whisky, conjure doctors in the American South make mojo bags that are comparable to the Ngangas minkisi bags.

When they reached America, the gris-gris changed over time. Some began to think of them as harmful tools to curse another, often being left on the tombstones of cruel slave masters or hung on buildings and homes. In Haiti, they are still considered to be positive, and bearers of good luck and have made their way into Voodoo practice. It is thought to be proper to carry a gris-gris in your left pocket. Scholars trace it to the word ‘juju’ the West African name for fetish or sacred object.

A nation sack is a mojo bag that is only carried by women, specifically for the purpose of controlling a man. Some debate that it is actually called a ‘nature sack’ and white researchers misunderstood the dialect of the black subjects they were interviewing. It appears the nation sack was not a widely known tool, with most accounts of it being made and used in the Memphis, Tennessee area. Also used to keep a lover faithful or a husband from straying, its contents are related to love, devotion, and domination. Queen Elizabeth root (orris root) is often found in a nation sack, and it is a common custom to use menstrual blood as a key element as well as the semen of the man involved.

A jackball looks similar to a mojo bag but is made and used much differently. While it also contains herbs, roots, and other components found in a mojo, those ingredients are encased in a ball of wax (or beeswax) by slowly adding wax into the ingredients and shaping into a ball. It is then wrapped in red yarn or red twine, leaving behind a long tail when complete. Jackballs are considered to be container spells, calling upon the same energy one would use to create a witch bottle. They are used as a talisman to protect against evil, to influence others, to bring mastery to the keeper of it, and can also be used for divination – the same way someone would use a pendulum. It is believed that swinging a jackball in the air charges it with power.

From a historian’s perspective, it is hard to determine if there were many people who advertised themselves as practitioners of conjure. There are records that show ads for midwives and doctors in the Times-Picayune newspaper but there are no records of any ads for “conjures.” The only type of person who was regularly documented performing these types of practices were African American women who were often referred to in historical documents as “doctoresses.” During childbirth, African American midwives spiritually protect the house because it is believed that evil spirits might harm a newborn soul. The doorway is often covered in a line of protective herbs to keep evil spirits out of the house during the birth along with other charms. These items are left untouched until after the child is born.

Hoodoo in Literature

Zora Neale Hurston’s novel “Their Eyes Were Watching God” is an example of

Zora Neale Hurston is a very famous folk magic & hoodoo practitioner & writer

Zora Neale Hurston

hoodoo in literature. It tells the story of Janie Crawford, who is initially living in Eatonville, Florida, but eventually moves to Eatonville. The book follows Janie’s life and relationships, detailing her rebellion against the norms of society. Zora Neale Hurston was born in 1891 and died in 1960. This means that her book was published before the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which made it illegal to discriminate against someone because of their race or color. However, it is also a book written about a black woman living in the South during Jim Crow. The society that she lived in was shaped by centuries of oppression and racism. This means that their eyes were watching her to make sure that she “knowed her place.” In this sense, many of the characters in Hurston’s novel are representative of hoodoo figures from folktales and stories.

Zora Neale Hurston’s Mules and Men is considered to be one of her most influential works in terms of writing folklore. Her rich descriptions of life in the rural South provide a unique perspective on the “American Negro” (her words) during the early 20th century. She described her experiences with conjure doctors and how hoodoo was used to empower the African-American community.

Is Hoodoo a Closed Practice?

Unlike Vodou, Hoodoo is a system of magic – not a religion. Any religion may practice Hoodoo. With that in mind, most earnest practitioners will tell you that it requires respect for its roots. To leave the African connection out of Hoodoo would be considered outright cultural appropriation. While it isn’t necessarily closed, it is deemed to be restrictive. Meaning, to practice Hoodoo it should be done from an Afrocentric perspective. While it does have elements borrowed from Jewish mysticism and English folk magic, they are not used predominantly but rather to enhance the tradition and its workings. English witchcraft practices are carried out much differently than the magical practices of Hoodoo. Those not born from African ancestry should in no way try to take ownership of or claim authority over the tradition. This is the very definition of appropriation. Rather, those outside the culture are considered “guests” in the tradition. If they choose to learn its magic, part of that journey should include preserving its heritage for what it is it – African-based magic.

For a more thorough look into the practice, check out the article: What Hoodoo Is: An African-American Folk-Magic Tradition by the Lucky Mojo Curio Co.

The Basics of Keeping a Dream Journal

The Basics of Keeping a Dream Journal

Keep a dream journal by writing down your dreams as soon as you wake up. At a later time, go over the journal and think about what symbols were in the dreams – especially recurring symbols , as these often have something important to tell us. You can also look up dream symbolism online and see if any of those ideas resonate with you.

Once you’ve identified the dream symbols that are relevant to you, try some creative exercises with them: write a story where one of those symbols is the main character; create some artwork that incorporates those images; record some music that represents your emotions as they relate to those dream scenarios (try singing or playing instruments like drums!). These projects will help you creatively express the ideas your subconscious is trying to tell you.

In general, dreams can be a great way for us to think about things in a new way and get creative with our thoughts in a safe space where nobody will judge us for what we dream up. This is especially important for artists, who use dreams to inspire their work. But this artistic expression can happen with any type of dream symbolism, not just what might be considered “artistic subjects” like music or art. Dreams are often about everyday things that are happening in your life, so there are many possibilities for creative activities you can do with those themes! The Basics of Keeping a Dream Journal

Here are some ideas for keeping a dream journal:

  • A recurring problem in your dreams could be an indicator of something you need to stop doing or start doing (or confronting) in real life. Turn your thoughts on the problem into a brainstorm list, then combine two ideas on the list into one action plan for how you will handle the problem.- Try writing a short story with a piece of your dream as its setting, or a character from it as a main character.
  • If an animal was present in the dream, look up what that animal’s symbolism means, and find ways to incorporate it into your life – for example, if an animal was positive towards you in the dream, then try befriending that kind of animal (or even just watching them at a zoo) more often. On the other hand, if an animal threatened you in some way in the dream, figure out what they animal symbolizes and how it pertains to your fears and anxieties.
  • A strong emotion can be strong inspiration for a song or poem. See if you can turn the emotion into a melody, or a rhythm for a poem. – Although there’s no “right” way to do creative activities with your dreams, it is important to reflect on why that symbol is appearing in your dream and what it might mean for you, as that will help the activity be even more effective. Doing this kind of reflection can also prevent you from unintentionally imposing your waking life onto your dream images, which would break the magic of using dreams as creative inspiration.

Dreams are a fascinating realm where we our subconsciousness speaks to us – so don’t let them go to waste! Try different kinds of creative expression and see if any of them speak to you.

There is also an article with pictures on keeping a dream journal over on wikihow. Keep-a-Dream-Journal

Love Altar - Love Spells

Love Altar Set Up – Love Spells

Many love spell techniques typically involve prayer, visualization and other ritualistic practices. One of the most ritualistic love rituals is the construction of a love altar because its presence and use anchor our intentions and emotions towards creating and maintaining loving emotions or attracting new love to you.

WHAT IS A LOVE ALTAR?

A love altar, also known as a love shrine, can be created in any location: it can be placed on a bookshelf, in your closet or even at work. It is not necessary for the love altar to be anything fancy; there are many that have been created from a simple hanging shelf, a fireplace mantle, or even a wooden box that you keep closed and private when not in use. If you are already in a relationship, the altar should include items that are important to both partners and can be something as simple as a framed picture of you two together, or it could be an elaborate shrine with various symbols of love engraved on it. By including things that are of interest to both of you, you are creating a magical bond.

WHAT ITEMS GO ON A LOVE ALTAR?

The first step in creating your love altar is deciding what kind of symbolism you would like to place on it. Symbols that represent love are often very simple and easy to find like hearts and roses. You might include pink, red, or white candles which can be simple votives or figural candles molded in the shapes of people. Use stones and crystals that represent love such as rose quartz for true love, lapis for good communication, and garnet for passion. Write down the lyrics to a love song that represents what you are feeling or wanting. It could be framed or folded then tied with ribbon as one of your ritual items. If there are any gifts the two of you have given each other, like a necklace, include that as well. It might be something as simple as the ticket stub from a movie the two of you saw together. Or, if you want to go the elaborate route, you might include as your centerpiece a statue of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love (she was Venus to the Romans.)

Love Letters or love notes. It’s true – not many people write love letters these days. But, has your love been texting you sweet (or sexy) messages? If so, print those out to include on your altar. After printing, anoint the four corners and the very center (this is called a quincunx or 5 – spot pattern) with rose or lavender oil then fold the paper towards you several times. If you have a bottle of magical oil for love, even better. Other paper items you might include on the altar are cards you’ve given each other, a love poem you like, or even a sample of your love’s handwriting.

Love Altar - Love Spells

MANIFESTING LOVE

But what is you are still looking for that one true love? It doesn’t matter. You simply have to focus your energy towards attracting the mate that is right for you while your neighbor’s altar might be about celebrating or Lodestones for Love Altar - Love Spellsstrengthening their existing relationship. A simple spell is to place magnets or lodestones on the altar to draw new love to you. Write a love letter to your future partner and fix it the same way as the one we mentioned above. By using your altar for ritual prayer or spells focused on love, it will raise your vibration to receive that energy when you go out public. But, don’t forget the most important thing – in order to find that right one, you have to place yourself in situations to meet people. Accept invites to parties. Go with your friends to dinner. Say yes when they ask you to go dancing with them at the club. You never know when or where you might meet someone. Unless your true love is the pizza delivery guy, you’ll probably don’t want to spend all of your time in front of your altar – no matter how romantic and gorgeous you’ve designed it. Take all that loving energy you’ve been conjuring up and share it with the world.

We found another article on the topic of setting up a love altar over at belief.net here: How to Build a Love Altar

Florida Water Protection Bottle Spell

Florida Water is already used in Hoodoo and some folk magical paths as a counterpart for holy water. So, by nature, it is already protective. Here florida water bottlewe’re going to add additional ingredients and perform a little magical work to create a Florida Water protection bottle spell. Protection magic is one of the oldest and most often asked about types of magical spellwork. Protection spells has been recorded all the way back to the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians, and is found in magical belief systems from all over the world.

  1. Take a bottle of Florida water and remove the label.
  2. Now, cut out a piece of paper about the same size as the original label and write on it the beginning of Psalm 31:
     I come to you, Lord, for protection; never let me be defeated. You are a righteous God; save me, I pray!  Hear me! Save me now! Be my refuge to protect me; my defense to save me.  You are my refuge and defense; guide me and lead me as you have promised.  Keep me safe from the trap that has been set for me; shelter me from danger.  I place myself in your care.
  3. Next, write your name and the names of all who live in your household between the lines of the psalm. Now, wrap the new label around the bottle facing inward. You can tape it to the bottle with clearing packing tape.

Ingredients you’ll need for the Florida Water Protection spell. Use a pinch each. Inside the Florida water bottle you’re going to add:

  • Angelica root (to receive blessings)
  • Blue cornflowers or lavender buds (for peace in the home) 
  • Plantain (to prevent theft)
  • Pinch epsom salt (to reverse any evil)
  • 3 straws from your broom (to keep away unwanted visitors)
  • Piece of tourmaline (grounding, but also thwarts complaining neighbors)

Take 3 white chime candles and anoint with House Blessing oil. Burn one candle beside the bottle, every day for 3 days. Place a good loaf of bread on the other side of the bottle. Shake the bottle every day.

When finished, use the Florida water to anoint your doorways, welcome mat, front porch, your mailbox. Pinch up the loaf of bread and spread in your yard so that the birds can carry your blessings and protection up into the trees and throughout your neighborhood.   – Papa Gee

florida water 1900s advertisementflorida water victorian adflorida water with monkey

willow tree hoodoo spell

Move Away Willow Tree Hoodoo Spell

Move Away Willow Tree Hoodoo Spell

Move Away Willow Tree Hoodoo SpellThis is based on an old Hoodoo spell to get a neighboring enemy to move away.

Take the branch of a willow tree from its North or South side – you do not want a branch that the sun shines on in the morning or evening. Take the branch home and strip it clean until it is smooth. It should now resemble a whip. Rub the branch down with a small amount of oil (olive, canola, peanut, etc) then sprinkle the branch with black pepper. Every day for 3 weeks, take to your enemy’s house and whip against the ground on the edge of their property. (their porch steps is better but doing this for 3 weeks straight seems a little risky.) If you cannot approach their home at all, print out or draw a picture of their house and include the house number. Swat that drawing with the branch every day for 3 weeks.

At the end of the 3 week period,

  • burn the paper and collect the ashes.
  • Take the ashes and the branch to a graveyard.
  • Dig a hole in the center of a grave,
  • drop in the ashes, plant the branch in the hole.
  • Turn and walk away without looking back.

For extra power, rub hot foot oil on the willow branch instead of plain oil.aromaG's Botanica Conjure Shop Hot Foot Oil

voodoo doll cloth

Voodoo Dolls and Hoodoo Doll Babies

beeswax doll poppet

beeswax poppets

 

Let’s talk about voodoo dolls or, in Hoodoo, they’re known as doll babies. Voodoo dolls have gotten a bad name, mainly from the movie industry, who have shown depictions of people using them to stick in pins and harm someone else. But initially, the voodoo doll was known for healing. Its origins are actually British and have been used there for hundreds of years. Most of the time, they would take a doll, also known as a poppet, which is supposed to represent a specific person; it’s their effigy. And let’s say they were sick. They would possibly stuff a doll with healing herbs, and they would actually doctor on the doll too, and perhaps use a form of prayer to help heal the person. So originally, they were a work of good. The movie industry, which we know needs to market dramatics to make it entertaining, has turned the voodoo doll into a wicked thing.

Choosing a type of doll for your voodoo doll

There are countless ways to make your own dolls for this purpose. One great add-on is to take a small vile and fill it with whatever herbs are appropriate for the doll’s situation, cork it shut, and sew it to one of the doll’s hands. This works exceptionally well with something like a yarn doll or a corn husk doll, which you can’t fill with herbs. Some people like to have a fully sewn doll. You can always make it yourself or go to the craft store where they usually carry them in a variety of shapes and sizes. You can even find tiny ones for about $5 for a pack of six. Little dolls like this are easy to conceal.

corn dolly poppet

Cornhusk dolly

But, you can use any sort of doll – even a Barbie doll can be a poppet. Also found in the craft store are the wooden figures used to help you sketch the human body.

  • cloth voodoo doll
  • wax poppets
  • corn dolly as a voodoo doll
  • purchased dolls like Barbie
  • purchased baby dolls make good hoodoo doll babies
  • stick dolls bound by string or twine
  • statues
  • wooden art figures

The main objective is to use an object that represents a person. Anointing your doll with magical oils to change their vibration to your wish. For example, let’s say you’re wanting to reconcile with someone. You may put something like Reconcile oil on the doll on the chest where the heart is. For money matters, put money drawing oil on the doll’s hands. For general healing, anoint the doll’s head with healing energy oil.
These are just a few examples of how you can tend to your doll baby.

The first step is to baptize it in the person’s name. You might actually bath the doll in holy water while reciting the person’s name. If that isn’t an option, you might leave it resting on top of his or her picture overnight.

voodoo doll clothAnd you care for them in different ways, depending on the intended purpose. Let’s say you want to make one for passion. This type of doll should be cuddled and kissed on. You should whisper to it, telling it all the things you want your lover to know how you feel, how you want them to think of you. And you should sleep with it for the first three nights, just like you would a mojo bag. And after that, you can tuck it in as into its own special place. Some people make a little bed for them so that you can actually tuck it in at night, showing the doll or the person you’re targeting, how much you care about them. Prove how much you’re willing to nurture them, be there for them. This is simply a way to show it affection and put that desire out into the universe. Some people will actually place this doll down their pants when they sleep. Traditionally, they would slide the doll in their underwear and sleep with it, which awakens the other person’s passion. Another way to use the passion doll is to tie it underneath your bed. If you’re in a relationship with the person and that person’s going to be in your bed, tie it up underneath, it just don’t let them see it.

antique dolls as voodoo dolls

regular dolls can be used as a voodoo doll or doll baby

For the act of healing another with a doll or poppet, you can anoint it with healing oils or Holy water. You might decide to put a candle beside it with the intention of the flame burning out the sickness. Don’t be afraid to use your instincts and imagination. If someone’s actually hurt in a specific place, you can massage the doll in that area. Let’s say, for example, someone you love has a broken arm. You can rub it herbs or oils, envisioning that broken bone mending back together. For depression, massage the doll’s head and send it white light. For a cold or flu, anoint where the lungs would be. This is the traditional method of using a doll for healing.

If you want to use a doll to bring more money, you might choose a green one and anoint with money drawing oil. Leave it beside you when you’re balancing your checkbook. When you’re filling out your tax returns, when you’re going over a business plan – keep it right there with you beside the computer. When you’re filling out applications, you might rest in on a bed of cinnamon sticks, which are money drawing, fenugreek, all the money drawing ingredients. A success doll is similar to a money doll. You might choose to make it in like another shade of green or purple. Work it for the things you want to achieve in life. Most of the time, this is your own likeness, and you would do the magical work for yourself. For example, a lot of success spells are done by artists and musicians. If you are a guitarist, you will play the guitar to the doll every night before you tuck it in. If you’re a painter, set it beside your easel while you work. An accountant? Put it beside the calculator!

Think about props to use with your doll baby. Let’s say you’re wanting to be a popular entertainer. Cut out a picture of a large stadium, packed with people, and anoint the doll with success oils or powders. Then place the doll in front of this image, using the stadium or stage as a backdrop. And it’s supposed to represent you, this imagery can help you define your goals and get a clear picture of your future success.

If you need a protection poppet, you will anoint it with things that are protective of nature. You may smudge it first so that it is completely clean, put it in a place where it’ll protect and guard you. You can actually do more than one, putting one at the front door and the other at the back door. Think of them as little ‘guard dolls.’

Finally, we get to the baneful doll, which some call the voodoo doll. But, that’s not very fair to Vodou’s religion, so we’ll use the term ‘dolly baby.’ This type of doll is mistreated or harassed. Maybe you want someone to move away and not be a part of your life anymore. Perhaps you’ll tell that person via the doll that they will have a constant headache until they move away and leave you alone. Each day, you take the doll and thump its head against furniture or a stone. The concept is to make the person relent, and they finally give in to your will. Is this evil work? That would depend on why you want the person to leave. For example, commanding a stalker to leave you alone would be considered protective work. Another way of working your baneful doll is to burn it. Take the ashes and drive them to the other side of town and dump them out to get this person out of your life. You can throw it in a river with running water or onto railroad tracks – another way to get someone to move away from you.

Whether your Hoodoo doll baby is fabric or wood or beeswax or yarn, the amount of time and attention you give the doll is what crafts the magical energy. With perseverance, hopefully, things will begin turning your way.

NEW Conjure Candles Released

We love creating new products and the wall where we keep all the hoodoo supplies looks a little more loved Kiss Me Quick, D.U.M.E., and Van Van candlesevery time we invent new candles. Five NEW Conjure Candles released this month: Kiss Me Quick, DUME, Van Van, Dragon’s Blood, and Hummingbird. So we’ve got a little love, a little hate, a touch of sweetness, and a little in between.

  • Kiss Me Quick is our new conjure candle meant to rekindle marital fires or to bring about a quick love affair.
  • D.U.M.E. stands for “death unto my enemies,” although some us it as “destruction unto my enemies.”
  • Van Van is often used to set wrongs right again. It turns bad luck back into good and is especially helpful whenever that nasty Mercury in Retrograde rolls around
  • Hummingbird is already flying off the shelves and has had to be remade 5 times because of orders for it. It’s all is about experiencing sweet and special love. Can also be used to make other things in your life sweet. The scent is amazing with a blend of rose, jasmine, and vanilla
  • Dragon’s Blood is so rich and beautiful with resin sprinkled on top. Dragon’s blood resin, amber oil, patchouli oil.

    chuparossa candle

Find these new candles, and the rest of our Conjure Shop candle line, right here!

Candle Spell – Come to Me

MOVING CANDLE COME TO ME SPELL –Moving Candle Come to Me spell

this is to bring someone closer to you, perhaps someone you have an interest in, but the “spark” hasn’t quite happened yet. This same work can be used for a spell of reconciliation. If that is the case, just replace the COME TO ME oil with RECONCILE oil and write your petition accordingly. This spell calls for a male and a female figural candle. Replace, if needed, according to your sexual orientation.

What you will need:

1 male figural candle, red or pink
1 female figural candle, red or pink
COME TO ME oil
rose petals
1 lodestone
paper and pencil
red or pink ribbon

Spell Directions:

First, carve the names for each person on the candle that represents them. For the male, write his name and on the female, her name. If you don’t want to use a knife, you can easily carve words into the candle using the tip of an ink pen or even a toothpick. Rub COME TO ME oil into each candle over your carvings in an upward motion. If you happen to have hair from the person you want to attract, place it under their candle. You can do the same with your own.

These candles will melt and run across a surface. You need something flat with a lip around the edges to place the candles on. A cookie sheet lined with aluminum foil makes for a simple, easy to clean up workspace. Write your name on a piece of paper seven times. Now, turn the paper and write your love interest’s name seven times so that it interlocks with your name. This will “weave” the two names together. Anoint each corner and the center of the paper with your COME TO ME oil. Place the petition paper in the center of the cookie sheet and set the lodestone on top of it.

Now, set each candle on opposite sides of the cookie sheet facing each other. It isn’t necessary to move them all the way to each edge. You want to leave enough room around the sheet so that you can sprinkle a ring of rose petals all the way around the two candles, locking them into a circle of roses.

Light each candle, and state your intention. The wording doesn’t have to be lengthy or rhyme. Simply speak from the heart and say what you want to happen. Some people choose to pray at this time. Every 10 minutes scoot each candle a little closer to the center, about an inch or so. After doing this several times, the candles should be touching (or almost touching, depending on how to candle is made) and both be on top of your petition paper. Now that they have moved across the surface and finally found each other, allow them to burn the rest of the way down without disturbing. The next day, gather the rose petals from the surface. You can either save them to use in a mojo bag later or sprinkle a few petals into your bath water on the days you plan to see your intended. Also, keep a little COME TO ME oil behind your ears or on your wrists when you know the two of you will be together. Gather the foil around the wax and tie with a red or pink ribbon. Place under your bed for seven nights. After the seven days is up, bury in your front yard beside the porch to entice them to come to your house. If you live in an apartment, you can bury at the bottom of a potted plant. I knew someone who placed it in the bottom of the umbrella stand beside her front door.

Pyramid of Power – Spell to Regain Personal Power & Confidence

Joan of Arc, a symbol of personal powerPYRAMID OF POWER spell

This spell is one of personal power, to regain your confidence and take back control of all your good qualities so that you can forge the life you want to create.

  • What you will need:
  • 1 purple vigil candle
  • 1 black vigil candle
  • 1 white vigil candle
  • JOAN OF ARC oil
  • JINX BEGONE or SAINT CYPRIAN oil
  • SHAMAN BLESSING oil

    For this Pyramid of Power Spell, take three vigil candles: one purple, one black, and one white. Form in a triangle with the purple candle at the head, the black to the bottom left, and the white to the right left. Purple candle, dress with JOAN OF ARC oil; Black candle, dress with JINX BEGONE or SAINT CYPRIAN oil; White candle, dress with SHAMAN BLESSING oil.In the center of these three candles, place a small bowl of sugar and put a picture of yourself in the bowl. If you can, try to choose a picture of yourself that you genuinely like, one that was taken on a happy day. On the back of the picture, write out all of your good qualities and things that make you feel blessed. Anoint in the sign of the cross with the SHAMAN BLESSING OIL.

To the left of the black candle, place a fire safe dish. Write out all things that are holding you back in life such as bad habits, certain people, or unpleasant situations. Each day, until all the candles have burned out, tear the paper into smaller pieces and move further away from the candles. When all the candles have finished burning, burn the pieces of paper. Take the ashes outside at sunset and blow them to the West in the direction of the setting sun.

Take your photograph, fold it towards you three times and carry with for the next three weeks. Longer if you prefer and can use it as an ingredient in a mojo bag.

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