basics for a

functional & magical apothecary

13 HERBS OF THE
VILLAGE WITCH

by Sarah Wu
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
ABOUT THE AUTHOR 2

INTRODUCTION 3

BASIL 4

CACAO 6

CINNAMON 8

ELDER 10

GINGER 12

LEMON BALM 14

LEMON GRASS 16

NETTLE 18

PERICON 20

ROSE 22

ROSEMARY 24

TOBACCO 26

YARROW 28

HOW TO 30

RESOURCES 34

IMAGES 35
 INTRODUCTION 2

ABOUT
THE AUTHOR

Sarah Wu is a passionate educational curator, facilitator and mentor

dedicated to adult learners of all backgrounds. An international
facilitator, Sarah has brought her teachings to the United States,
Guatemala, Costa Rica, Panama, Cuba, Italy, Portugal, France and
Germany.

Sarah is a representative for Mother Nature. She writes and teaches

about Deep Ecology, Spiritual Ecology, Therapeutic Ecology and Whole
Systems Design through the lens of Herbalism and Permaculture.
Sarah has 23 years studying and practicing the science, art and craft
of Regenerative Herbal Medicine. Her foundation is in Traditional
Chinese Medicine and Western Wise Woman Traditions, actively
practicing clinical and community herbalism in the Neo-Tropics for 14
years.Sarah has taught over 30 Permaculture Design Courses,
encompassing the earth sciences, regenerative strategies for human
settlement design, community development and alternative social
structuring. She has also taught thousands of hours of all aspects of
herbal medicine from Materia Medica, ethnobotany, medicine
making, formulation and anatomy/physiology. Sarah is well versed in
teaching archetypal symbolism and storytelling for personal
reflection via Tarot and Evolutionary Astrology.

A producer at heart, Sarah loves curating courses, workshops and

events tailored to community, deep ecology, regenerative design and
holistic health, highlighting diverse and dynamic facilitators. Sarah is
a co-founder and producer of Envision Festival, a 10,000 person arts
and culture event in Costa Rica, where she curates the educational
offerings spanning five stages and 300 hours.
 INTRODUCTION
WHAT’S IN
THE BOOK
This resource is a guide to help you along
your journey with the plants in the
understanding of the relationship
between the green world and our own
human physical, mental, emotional and
spiritual evolution.
Our green allies created the special
condition of our current planetary era
and without them our lives would not
exist. To bring humanity back into Sacred
Balance with our Mother Earth, the plants
serve as a bridge between us and her, a
way to communicate and connect. While
all humans have the potential to work
with plants, some folks have an innate
and passionate calling. You are being
called to be the voice of our green
friends.
Sarah has chosen 13 plants that are
commonly found around the globe and
easily accessible to help you develop
your holistic apothecary that can nurture
and support you, your friends and family.
Please remember to take it slow, take
with respect and allow for the process.
This is only the beginning of your journey
down the Good Medicine Road.
3
HIGHLIGHTS
13 Plants and their
Energetics,
Ethnobotany, Lore,
Therapeutics and
Magical Associations
9 different ways to
work with each plant
Easy “How To” section
Herbal Terms
Glossary
Resources
Gorgeous Imagery
Copyright © 2023 by Sarah wu, Village Witch.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be
reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or
by any means, including photocopying, recording, or
other electronic or mechanical methods, without the
prior written permission of the publisher, except in
the case of brief quotations embodied in critical
reviews and certain other noncommercial uses
permitted by copyright law.
For permissions or inquiries, please contact:
Sarah Wu
sarah@villagewitch.org
The information provided in this ebook is for general
informational purposes only. It is not intended as
medical advice or a substitute for professional
medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always
seek the advice of your physician or other qualified
health provider with any questions you may have
regarding a medical condition. Never disregard
professional medical advice or delay in seeking it
because of information provided in this conversation.
 BASIL 4

Basil
Oscimum spp.
Energetics: Warm, Dry
Taste: Spicy, Bitter, Sweet
Element: Wind/Air
Parts: Leaves, Flowers, Woody Stems
Ethnobotany: Native to India and the
Mediterranean basin, countless varieties of
Basil are found in every small town and
bioregion. The word “basil” has Greek origins
meaning “fit for a king”. The plant was used
by the Egyptians as one of the herbs of
embalmment, preparing the deceased for
the afterlife. In Latin America, the plant is
often worked with to the cleanse away the
evil eye, jealousy and of protection. In India
it is planted at the door way as a protector
of the home.
Gods/Goddesses: Rama, Vishnu (India),
Venus (Roman).
Tarot Major Arcana: The Chariot VII
Ecology: There are many varieties found in
numerous bioregions from arid and
temperate to the deep tropics. It loves full
sun and is either an annual or a perennial
depending on the weather, not tolerant to
frost. As a Lamiaceae, it is especially loved
by pollinators, specifically bees.
Constituents: Essential Oils, Flavonoids,
Vitamins, Minerals
Therapeutics: Antidepressant, Anti-
inflammatory, Antioxidant, Carminative,
Nootropic
Magical Associations: Protection, Divination,
Purity, Second Sight, Connection to Spirit.
The wooded stems of Tulsi (Holy Basil) are
carved into round beads and threaded into
a mala (prayer) necklace or bracelet to
help focus the mind.
 BASIL 5

WAYS TO WORK WITH BASIL

MAKING ART COOKING MEDITATION

Practice a Basil is the Take a few leaves in
botanical drawing foundation of Pesto, your mouth and
or write an ode to a puree of the slowly chew them.
the pollinating leaves with olive oil, Sit silently
species. pine nuts and observing the plant.
cheese.

DRINK TEA BATHING ANOINTING

During meditation, Soak the leaves in Dab a few drops on
while studying, the tub for an the third eye and
upon waking or uplifting and on the solar plexus
after a meal to refreshng bath to for clarity of
focus, digest and wash away a day’s purpose.
energize. stress.

AMMULATES SMOKES PLANTING

Gather Basil leaves Wrap in a bundle Keep in a pot or in
and flowers and and dry. Burn from the garden at entry
bundle up with one end, blessing ways to the yard
purple thread to doorways, windows and home facing
call in helpful spirit and mirrors for east.
guides. protection.
 CACAO 6

Cacao
Theobroma cacao
Energetics: Cool, Wet
Taste: Bitter, Sweet, Acid
Parts: Seeds, Rind, Leaves
Ethnobotany: Native to the Yucatan
Peninsula in Mexico, there are
numerous varieties of Cacao found in
tropical regions of the Americas.
Theobroma cacao in particular has
become the most loved because of its
smooth texture, rich flavor, and
spiritual goodness. Numerous cultures
have stories associated with Cacao,
often featuring ugly and beautiful
women, warriors, mystics, lovers and
gods.
Gods/Goddesses: Sibu ( Costa Rica),
Ek Chuah/Ek Chuaj, Ixcacao, Chaac
(Maya), Quetzalcoatl (Aztec), Mama
Ocllo (Inca).
Tarot Major Arcana: The Lovers VI
Ecology: A small tree that loves both
full and partial sun and a solid rainy
season. It is food for numerous small
mammals and is pollinated by ants.
Cacao is susceptible to fungal
infections and is often cultivated for
selective resistance to disease.
Constituents: Alkaloids, Antioxidants,
Neurotransmitters, Essential Fatty
Acids, Minerals.
Therapeutics: Antidepressant,
Digestive, Stimulant
Magical Associations: Love,
Connection, Offering to Land Spirits, the
God and Goddess. Cacao is excellent
in love potions and for spiritual trauma
healing.
 CACAO 7

WAYS TO WORK WITH CACAO

MAKING ART COOKING MEDITATION

Take the dried Molé is a traditional When consuming
seeds and make a sauce made from Cacao, focus on all
mandala Cacao, peanuts, those with who you
dedicated to peace and hot peppers, want to heal your
and love. delicious on meat relationship.
and bean dishes.

DRINK TEA BATHING ANOINTING

A delicious way to Love yourself by Dab on your
stimulate the mind slathering your sacrum, pelvis
and open the heart, body in Cacao perineum, gentitals
perfect for being in Butter from head to and heart to
community or toe to nourish dry connect deeply
creating art. skin. with a lover.

AMMULATES SMOKES PLANTING

Put a few nibs in Dried Cacao leaves If you live in the
your pocket when are a lovely, slightly tropics, a Cacao
going out with or euphoric smoke, tree will add color
trying to attract a twist it up with Rose to your garden and
lover. Nibble on and Damiana. attract wildlife.
them throughout
the night.
 CINNAMON 8

Cinnamon
Cinnamomum verum
Energetics: Hot, Dry, Warm/Wet
Taste: Spicy, Sweet, Pungent, Astringent
Parts: Bark, Leaves
Ethnobotany: A long history spanning
many cultures, Cinnamon was one of the
principal spices traded on the Silk Road.
The Egyptians used it as an embalming
spice and it was often placed on altars. In
Christianity it was burned as an incense.
Due to its high value, it was one of the
spices that inspired the search for
alternate trade routes which eventually
lead to the colonization of the Americas.
Gods/Goddess: No specific dieties are
associated, but Seasons are, specifically
the Winter Solstice. The warm bark
symbolized the heat of the Sun and the
presence of Spirit.
Tarot Major Arcana: Strength XIII
Ecology: A tropical plant native to India
and a relative of Laurel. This tree is a mid
level species that can handle aggressive
pruning and copicing.
Constituents: AntiOxidants, Essential Oils,
Mucilage, Polyphenols, Tannins
Therapeutics: Aphrodisiac, Antimicrobial,
Circulatory Stimulant, Digestive, Regulates
Blood Sugar
Magical Associations: Purity, Protection,
Blessing Positive Energies, Invocation of a
Diety. Cinnamon is particularly good at
protecting the home and keeping
negative energy out.
 CINNAMON 9

Ways to Work with Cinnamon

MAKING ART COOKING MEDITATION

Take some sticks Delicious in sweet Cinnamon brings a
and integrate them and savory dishes, warm feeling to any
into fairy homes, make a bread and practice. Meditate
making little lamp place a piece on on and with this ally
posts or furniture. your outdoor altar to nurture collective
for the nature love and healing.
spirits.

DRINK TEA BATHING ANOINTING

Both the leaf and Add the tea to the Bless the heart,
the bark are sweet, bath in the winter pelvis and throat
spicy and warming. or for when you are for expressing
Infusions are feeling attacked by sweetness and
energizing and outer and external personal truth.
stimulate factors.
circulation.

AMMULATES SMOKES PLANTING

A Cinnamon The leaves are A tropical tree that
broomstick is the protective and is easy to care for,
witches favorite to when burned rid keep it in a corner
hang on or over the the area of of the property to
front door to ward impuritites and watch over and
off the evil eye. malice. protect the home.
 ELDER 10

Elder
Sambucus nigra, S. canadenis,
S. mexicana
Energetics: Cool, Dry
Taste: Sweet, Sour
Parts: Berries and Flowers
Ethnobotany: Native to Europe and the
Americas, this plant holds special place in
the lore of everywhere it touches. Found
along roadsides, field edges and in
cemeteries.
Gods/Goddess: Venus (Roman), Holle
(Norse), Hecate (Greek). Elder is also
associated with both Litha (Summer
Solstice) and Samhain (Halloween).
Tarot Major Arcana: Death XIII
Ecology: A fast growing edge species with
shallow roots and hollow stems, the
flowers and berries produce abundant
food for birds and pollinators.
Constituents: Anthocyanins, Bioflavonoids,
Tannins, Volatile Oils, Vitamins
Therapeutics: Antioxidant, Diaphoretic,
Immuno-Stimulant, Nutritious.
Magical Associations: There are so many
folkloric stories about Elder, spanning a
variety of cultures but mostly in Northern
Europe and the British Isles. Elder is planted
in the corners of the garden to protect the
space and allow only loving and
protective spirits to enter. The wood is
used as a magical wand and is soft and
hollow, often be made into a flute or wind
chimes. It is taboo to burn Elder.
 ELDER 11

WAYS TO WORK WITH ELDER

MAKING ART COOKING MEDITATION

The berries are a At the end of Be with the Elder to
gorgeous bright Summer/beginning speak with your
pink and can be of Autumn, make ancestors, allow
used as a natural the berries into jam, their messages and
dye. Try carving wine or pies for stories to flow into
your own flute. Winter immunity. you.

DRINK TEA BATHING ANOINTING

Sour, sweet and Elder flowers in a Smear the juice on
very nutritive. Enjoy bath keep the the cheeks,
at the change of circulatory system symbolizing the vital
season to keep the strong and help to pulse of life. Elder
immune system release the heat of Flower water is used
strong. a fever. to bless people.

AMMULATES SMOKES PLANTING

Collect the flowers Elder should not be Many species grow
in Summer, dry and burned. in a variety of
keep in a jar near bioregions. This
the front door. Dry easy to grow shrub
the berries, string, is an energetically
and hang them potent ally in the
around a mirror. garden.
 GINGER 12

Ginger
Zingiber officinale

Energetics: Hot, Dry

Taste: Pungent, Spicy
Parts: Roots
Ethnobotany: The root is integral to
numerous cultural dishes and
medicinal traditions, believed to be
made from the tears of Demeter after
her daughter was taken to the
underworld. Ginger often is seen in
creation myths throughout Chinese,
Hindu as well as Native American
cultures. The European tradition of
making Gingerbread Man cookies was
done to turn away evil spirits from the
home in the depths of Winter when
food was scarce and people were
more susceptible to illness.
Gods/Goddess: Demeter (Greek), Sun
Wukong (Chinese), Lakshmi (Hindu)
Tarot Major Arcana: The Emperor IV
Ecology: Native to Southeast Asia and
India. Ginger loves rich, humid
environments and shade.
Constituents: AntiOxidants, Essential
Oils, Glycolipids
Therapeutics: Anti-inflammatory,
AntiOxidant, Circulatory Stimulant,
Diaphoretic, Digestive, Heals Wounds
Magical Associations: Protection,
Wards Negative Energy, Good Luck,
Fortune, Healing , Cleansing,
 GINGER 13

WAYS TO WORK WITH GINGER

MAKING ART COOKING MEDITATION

Shredded Ginger Ginger is a Perfect for an
root can be added delicious spice in active Kundalini
to paper pulp to sauces, soups, practice to get the
add gorgeous smoothies and in vital force flowing!
texture to pastries.
homemade paper.

DRINK TEA BATHING ANOINTING

A hot cup of tea is a A hot Ginger bath Ginger oil on the
great way to start warms the spirit, shoulders to
the day, stimulate helps fight remind yourself
digestion and infections and that you have
motivate the body keeps the body support in carrying
into action. strong. your burdens.

AMMULATES SMOKES PLANTING

Ginger roots carried Ginger leaves Ginger roots grow
in the pocket or added to a smoke outdoors in Tropical
purse will help to bundle to cleanse or SubTropical
draw abundance the home. regions or indoors
and keep away in a pot in a humid,
those who may warm area of the
harbor envy. house.
 LEMON BALM 14

Lemon Balm
Melissa officinalis
Energetics: Cool, Dry
Taste: Spicy, Citrus, Sour, Green
Parts: Leaves
Ethnobotany: Many European cultures
attribute Melisa as a panacea, a cure all.
Growing in many conditions, it is a well
loved spice and was believed to bestow
wisdom, virtue and abundance to the
one who cultivates and works with the
plant. Named for the Greek word for Bee
Gods/Goddess: Hecate, Circe, Medea
(Greek), Jesus, Mary (SWANA)
Tarot Major Arcana: The Moon XVIII
Ecology: A weedy member of the Mint
family, Lamiaceae, the plant tolerates
many conditions and is quite abundant
in temperate environments. It grows
easily from both cutting and seed. It
tends to die back in Summer and thrive
in Autumn and mild Winter. Bees
particularly love this plant.
Constituents: Essential Oils, Polyphenols,
Rosmarinic Acid, Tannins, Triterpenes.
Therapeutics: Anti-Inflammatory,
Antidepressant, AntiOxidant, Anxiolytic,
Diaphoretic, Digestive, Immuno-
stimulant, Nervine
Magical Associations: Protective, Draws
Money, Strenghtens Intuition, Focus,
Confidence, Happiness, Focus, Purity,
Attracts Friendship and Community.
 LEMON BALM 15

WAYS TO WORK WITH LEMON BALM

MAKING ART COOKING MEDITATION

See through the Add Melissa to Bring Melissa in to
eye of the Bee. pesto, fish and your practice
Imagine you see chicken dishes. A especially when
pollen, ultraviolet syrup with soda you are feeling low
light and through water or fermented or disconnected
numerous lenses. is a lovely after from community.
dinner drink.

DRINK TEA BATHING ANOINTING

Melissa tea helps to Melissa in a bath Melissa oil on the
fight viral infections, will help to rinse off Third Eye, Heart and
supports digestion negative emotions Sacrum to create a
and lifts the mood and built up tension bridge between the
when feeling down after a long three truth centers,
or depressed. stressful day. Mind-Heart-Gut

AMMULATES SMOKES PLANTING

A bouquet of A smoke bundle is While easy to
Melissa in the room a lovely way to cultivate in most
will lighten the send prayers of places, it drops a
mood. Place it on connection and lot of seeds and
your desk to help healing to the spreads easily.
focus the mind. world. Plant in pots or
directly in the
garden.
 LEMON GRASS 16

Lemon Grass
Cymbopogon citratus

Energetics: Cool, Dry

Taste: Spicy, Sweet, Citrus
Parts: Leaves, Bulbs
Ethnobotany: Lemongrass is a beloved
of landscape gardeners and
permaculture designers. Used as a
culinary spice in India, Thailand,
Indonesian and in the Caribbean, as
well as being a much loved medicinal
plant in every culture is comes into
contact with. In the Indian caste
system, the upper class would perfume
themselves with Lemongrass as a
status symbol.
Gods/Goddess: Hermes, Artemis
(Greek), Diana (Roman), Ganesha
(Hindu)
Tarot Major Arcana: Temperance XIV
Ecology: A clumping grass, propagated
by root division. It creates lovely edging,
and can be trimmed back for mulching
other plants or making beds for
chickens.
Constituents: Essential Oils, Flavonoids,
Polyphenols
Therapeutics: Antibacterial, Anti-
Inflammatory, Diaphoretic, Digestive
Magical Associations: Brings Luck,
Conjure Spirits, Attracts Love, Cleansing,
Supports Communication, Divination.
 LEMON GRASS 17

WAYS TO WORK WITH LEMON GRASS

MAKING ART COOKING MEDITATION

Make braided Soups with Pray with
wreaths and woven Lemongrass are Lemongrass to
mats for hanging warming and attract partnership
on the doorway or delicious. Paste of and community.
on holiday tables. the bulb can be
added to sauces.

DRINK TEA BATHING ANOINTING

The tea supports A bath of Use the oil on the
digestion, Lemongrass is a throat before a
stimulates wonderful way to meeting, date or
circulation and prepare for an community
covers the taste of evening out with gathering to aid
bitter herbs. friends! connection.

AMMULATES SMOKE WANDS PLANTING

A braid of Burning Plant around the
Lemongrass hung Lemongrass at the garden edge and
above the bed will doorways, windows corners especially
attract loving and mirrors to in places of high
dream time cleanse the space. erosion risk.
pyschic visitors.
 NETTLES 18

Nettles
Urtica dioica, U. urens

Energetics: Dry, Cool

Taste: Mineral Salt
Parts: Leaves, Seeds, Stems
Ethnobotany: Nettle has been a part of
materia medica since the Bronze Age
when humans were wrapped in burial
clothes made from the stem fibers.
Considered a guardian of the threshold
and signaling home to nature spirits.
Nettle has long been considered a wild
food and incorporated into numerous
dishes throughout the seasons. In many
places the practice of Urtication, or the
intentional stinging with Nettle eases
arthritic conditions, muscle tightness
and poor circulation.
Gods/Goddess: Faeries, Thor, Loki
(Norse), Cernunnos (Celtic), Hades
(Roman)
Tarot Major Arcana: The Tower XVI
Ecology: Nurtures damaged soil and
amends compost formulas. Nettle is
perennial and will come back each year
after an anual die back.
Constituents: Minerals, Lignanas,
Protein, Polyphenols, Phytosterols
Therapeutics: Bone and Tissue
Healing/Strengthening, Diuretic,
Nephroprotective, Nutritive, Restorative
Magical Associations: Returning
Curses, Empathy, Courage, Protection.
 NETTLES 19

WAYS TO WORK WITH NETTLES

MAKING ART COOKING MEDITATION

Nettle stalks are A delicious cooked See the Nettle as a
pounded and green for stews, barrier around you,
made into textiles savory pastries, protecting from
for clothing and and as a pesto. intrusive thoughts
cordage. Roots and feelings.
make a yellow dye.

DRINK TEA BATHING ANOINTING

Nettle Tea is Take fresh nettle Rub Nettle oil or
nutritious, rich and and blend it up with juice into the feet
delicious. Long your favorite for grounding when
infusions of up to 15 body/face oil, and you feel lost or
hours yeild a dark a little fine salt as a unsettled.
green beverage. stimulating scrub.

AMMULATES SMOKES PLANTING

Dried Nettle in a Burn to avoid Plant in edges of
sachet is protective danger and protect the property and
and will send back the home. harvest regularly,
any negative adding the leaves
thoughts or ill and seeds to your
wishes. compost and diet.
 PERICON 20

Pericon
Tagetes lucida

Energetics: Cool and Dry

Taste: Spicy, Fresh, Aromatic
Parts: Leaves and Flowers
Ethnobotany: This herb is native to
Mexico and Central America. Found in
all the indigenous and Latino healing
traditions, worked with in ceremony,
ritual and in the kitchen. Often made
into wreaths and in bundles on altars
for honoring the dead and the gods.
Worked with in Temezcal and in
purification ceremony. The plant was a
part of Aztec sacrificial ceremony, and
was smoked in celebration of life in
sexual rituals.
Gods/Goddess: No specific Gods or
Goddesses are associated but it is
often referred to as the Flor de Muerte
and given as an offering on Dia de los
Muertos to honor the dead.
Tarot Major Arcana: High Priestess II
Ecology: A gorgous perennial plant
produces aromatic, Tarragon or Anise
scented leaves the repel insects.
Constituents: Essential Oils, Minerals,
Terpenes, Vitamins
Therapeutics: Digestive, Euphoric,
Nootropic
Magical Associations: Connection,
Higher Conciousness, Creating Sacred
Space
 PERRICON 21

WAYS TO WORK WITH PERICON

MAKING ART COOKING MEDITATION

Make an altar to a A delicious spice on Inhale deeply when
loved one past by roasted veggies, going into a place
decorating it with chicken or fish and of prayer to
Pericon leaves and a suprising addition connect deeper
flowers. to the common with the messages
pesto. of your ancestors.

DRINK TEA BATHING ANOINTING

A lovely digestive Ritually bath to An oil infusion
evening tea to wash away old rubbed on the
sooth the stomach resentments and stomach to help
and prepare you for frustrations you are you digest and
dream time. holding on to. process
experiences.

AMMULATES SMOKES PLANTING

Keep in your pocket Inhaling brings a Grows easily from
if you suffer from calm sense of cutting and loves
social anxiety. Know euphoria and full sun and regular
that you are safe peace. Burning will watering.
and held. purify the space.
 ROSE 22

Rose
Rosa spp.

Energetics: Cool, Dry

Taste: Spicy, Astringent, Sweet
Parts: Flowers, Berries
Ethnobotany: Numerous cultures
associate Rose with femininity, passion and
good feeling in relationship. In Catholic
tradition, in a celebration of martyrs, Roses
are poured through the windows of
cathedrals symbolizing the blood spilled in
faithful devotion.
Gods/Goddess: Mary (SWANA), Aphrodite,
Adonis (Greek), Kuan Yin (Chinese), Heart
Chakra
Tarot Major Arcana: The Empress III
Ecology: Countless varieties of Rose are
found around the world, in various colors
and sizes. The more aromatic, the more
medicinal. In places where Rose is native, it
is common to find Rose Hips, the fruit of the
flower in Autumn, a rich food for wildlife
and humans.
Constituents: Anthocyanins, Bioflavonoids,
Carotenoids, Essential Oils, Vitamins
Therapeutics: Antidepressant, Anti-
Inflammatory, Astringent, Nutritive, Skin
Healing.
Magical Associations: Love, Divination,
Relationship, Passion, Peace, Healing After
Loss, Lucid and Prophetic Dreaming. Red
Rose for Passionate Love, Pink for
Sweetness, Yellow for Friendship, White for
Mourning the Dead.
 ROSE 23

WAYS TO WORK WITH ROSE

MAKING ART COOKING MEDITATION

Take Rose Petals to Add Rose petals or Meditate on the
create a mandala powder to cookies ones you love and
for peace and love. or pastries with who love you. Call
almonds and on Rose to support
vanilla. you and them.

DRINK TEA BATHING ANOINTING

Rose is a wonderful Rose petals in a Place Rose oil on
tea that will lift and bath will tone and the heart to nurture
lighten the mood. freshen skin, while deep feelings of self
Add just a few easing one into the love and to support
petals to black tea sensousness of you in healing from
or Tulsi. their body. loss.

AMMULATES SMOKES PLANTING

Rose petals can be Roses make a Roses are a lovely
rolled into tiny gorgeous addition addition to the
beads and strung to a smoking blend landscape and the
on a rosary for or wand with Sage bees will love them!
prayer, connection or Mugwort. Make sure to prune
and love. them regularly.
 ROSEMARY 24

Rosemary
Rosmarinus officinalis

Energetics: Warm, Dry

Taste: Spicy, Oily, Pungent
Parts: Leaves & Flowers
Ethnobotany: Rosemary has been a
beloved medicine for countless years in
Mediterranean cultures. Sacred in many
religious practices and to many
goddesses. As Rosemary made her way
around the world, it was fast integrated into
healing traditions. Rosemary has played an
important role in marriage and funeral
ritual, as a reminder of our love, devotion
and history with others.
Gods/Goddess: Venus (Roman), Aphrodite
(Greek), Mary (SWANA), Isis (Egyptian)
Tarot Major Arcana: The Wheel X
Ecology: A shrubby perennial, that loves full
sun and well drained soils. The beautiful
blue flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Not tolerant to frost.
Constituents: Essential Oils, Flavonols,
Rosmarinic Acid
Therapeutics: AntiOxidant, Anti-
inflammatory, Anti-fungal, Antibacterial,
Circulatory Stimulant, Diaphoretic,
Nootropic, Stimulates Appetite, Skin
Alterative, Vasodilative
Magical Associations: Love, Protection,
Wisdom. In the Victorian Language of
Flowers, Rosemary was given in bundles to
remind one of warm feelings of love.
 ROSEMARY 25

WAYS TO WORK WITH ROSEMARY

MAKING ART COOKING MEDITATION

A gorgeous lime Add to soups, Rubbing over the
green dye, boil the stews, roasted third eye will open
leaves for 30 mins, veggies to support one to messages of
soaking clothing for digestion, fight our guides.
20 minutes, stirring infections and ward
occasionally. off viruses.

DRINK TEA BATHING ANOINTING

Infusions of In a bath, the herb Rosemary oil or
Rosemary will will warm aching water, sprinkled on
support immunity joints and the top of the head,
through the Winter connective tissue, third eye or sacrum
months and when soothe muscles as a blessing for
you are traveling. and assist in repair. love and devotion.

AMMULATES SMOKES PLANTING

Adding Rosemary Wrapping Planting Rosemary
to a flower bouquet Rosemary into a attracts pollinators,
will increase the smoke bundle will provides medicine
potency of the purify the home, and a culinary
flowers. Place on protecting from spice for years to
your altar with bad energies. come.
images of those
you love.
 TOBACCO 26

Tobacco
Nicotiana tabacum

Energetics: Dry, Warm

Taste: Astringent, Bitter
Parts: Leaves
Ethnobotany: Probably one of the
most known and experienced plant
globally as a potent medicine and
drug, Tobacco has made an imprint
on human kind like no other. Native to
the Americas, it has long played a role
in ceremonial and communal
medicine. Spread across the world as
an addictive commodity, countless
have suffered by abusing it.
Gods/Goddess: Baba Yaga (Slavic),
Buffalo Woman (Lakota, Cheyenne,
and Arapaho, ), Vulcan, Hades
(Roman) Tezcatlipoca (Aztec)
Tarot Major Arcana: The High Priest V
Ecology: Producing the tiniest seeds
yet growing to 2 meters tall, Tobacco
is a Tropical and Temperate sun
loving pioneer species, perfect for
edges.
Constituents: Alkaloids, Minerals,
Volatile Oils
Therapeutics: Analgesic, Emetic,
Euphoric, Laxative, Vasoconstrictive
Magical Associations: Connection to
Spirit and Ancestors, Drives out Bad
Energy, Ceremonial Offering
 TOBACCO 27

WAYS TO WORK WITH TOBACCO

MAKING ART COOKING MEDITATION

Tobacco is a Not edible, but is a Being in ritual circle
gorgeous rich valuable kitchen with a Chanupa
yellow brown dye, it herb. If you cut carrier is one of the
adds warmth to a yourself, chew a more special and
pallet, room or little and hold over ancient ways to
wardrobe. the wound to stop connect with spirit.
bleeding.

DRINK TEA BATHING ANOINTING

Tea of Tobacco is Pouring tobacco Tobacco snuffs will
used as an emetic water over you will clear the mind,
for food poisoning, rid you of negative open the third eye,
easing pain, and for energy and help and ground one
washing wounds. restore balance. into practice

AMMULATES SMOKES PLANTING

Tobacco in a little Smoking tobacco An interesting ally
pouch or bundle clears the mind, to gardeners for its
and placed on grounds the spirit, insecticidal
altars as an and connects properties. Tea of
offering to spirit. people in Tobacco will
community. protect plants from
being munched on.
 YARROW 28

Yarrow
Achilea millefolium

Energetics: Warm, Dry

Taste: Spicy, Bitter
Parts: Leaves, Flowers
Ethnobotany: Known since at least the
Roman times, this common weed is
noted by all the ancient physicians for
its strength as an herb of the blood. In
alchemical practices Yarrow is well
loved for its ability to nourish the
transformation of the wounded into the
healer.
Gods/Goddess: Achilles, Venus
(Roman) Hermes, Chiron (Greek) Devil
(SWANA)
Tarot Major Arcana: The Magician I
Ecology: Sun loving, weedy plant that
grows in open fields and along edges.
Loved by pollinators, it is a hardy
perennial that stays present throughout
mild winters. The seeds do not want to
be buried, so if propagating, broadcast
seeds in open spaces.
Therapeutics: Analgesic, Anti-
inflammatory, Antibacterial,
Diaphoretic, Emmenagauge, Styptic
Constituents: Alkaloids, Flavonoids,
Salicylic Acid, Tannins, Volatile Oils
Magical Associations: Protects
Boundaries, Heals Deep Rooted Trauma,
Love Spells, Exorcises Negative Spirits,
Divination, Weather Witching,
Stimulates Dreams.
 YARROW 29

WAYS TO WORK WITH YARROW

MAKING ART COOKING MEDITATION

Make head wreaths Not commonly Reflecting on your
from the flowers taken as food, but a own wounded
when fresh or dry, few young springs healer, work with
hang around the can be added to a Yarrow to explore
kitchen for that wild salad or as how your pain can
fairy core feeling. garnish. help others.

DRINK TEA BATHING ANOINTING

A warming, green A bath or compress Yarrow flowers in
tea for Winter to of Yarrow will help your hair call to you
keep the body drive out fever, the attention of a
warm and strong to warm the bones beloved.
fight infections. and heal wounds.

AMMULATES SMOKES PLANTING

Yarrow placed in Instead of burning, Easy to cultivate, it
the pillow brings boil and inhale the is an excellent
prophetic dreams. steam to relieve biomass builder
Above the bed will asthma. and amendment to
enliven romantic compost, adding
connection. minerals and other
nutrients.
HOW TO 30

PREPARATION SUGGESTIONS

HOW TO DO IT
WHAT ARE
SIMPLE STEPS
WE DOING?

Anointing is an act of blessing certain physical and energetic

parts of the body typically with an oil or water extract. Not
much is needed, only a few drops. With prayer and intention,
ANOINTING dab the solution on the area and do not wipe off. Be mindful of
using concentrated essential oils in delicate places like the
eyes, nose, and genitals. Be also aware of any potential
photosensitivity that the plants may cause.

An amulet is a sacred item that draws, repels, protects or

blesses the wearer. Items such as herbs, stones, clay, animal
AMULET parts, jewels or other objects are either placed in a bag, hung
on string or set into ornamental findings and worn either
openly or discretely on the body.

Using an old t-shirt, a piece of lightweight cloth, or a nut mylk

bag, gather a handful of well-chopped herbs and seal them
tightly in the chosen material. Run this bundle under hot bath
water until there's enough to submerge at least your hips.
BATH
Allow the bag to steep in the water while you bathe. It's
recommended not to rinse off the herbal bath. Alternatively,
you can brew a large pot of tea and pour it over your body
while in the tub or outside.

Infusing oils is an easy process! Start by choosing a carrier oil

with a scent you like, or you can select an oil based on its
therapeutic qualities. Take 300 ml of oil and add 50 grams of
finely chopped dried herbs, preferably aromatic ones. Working
with fresh plants is only recommended for intermediate to
advanced medicine makers. Stir the mixture and gently pat
the bottom of the jar to release any trapped bubbles. Ensure
OILS there’s at least a finger’s width of space between the herbs
and the lid. Seal the jar, label it with the type of oil, date, and
the herbs used. You can also note the time of day, lunar cycle,
and astrological sign if desired. Store the jar away from direct
sunlight but in a warm area of the house. After six weeks, strain
the infused oil.
Additionally, you have the option to enhance 100ml of carrier
oil by adding 20-30 drops of essential oil.
HOW TO 31

PREPARATION SUGGESTIONS

HOW TO DO IT
WHAT ARE
SIMPLE STEPS
WE DOING?

Incense smokes are burned in cones, incense holders, censers,

fireplaces, or pots. They are usually held over an open flame or
burned on coals to release smoke, which can be burned
SMOKE indoors or outdoors. The smoke is often waved in specific ways
to attract, repel, or provide protection. However, it’s essential to
be aware that some herbs used in incense can be toxic or
induce euphoria if inhaled.

Gather dried or fresh herbs along with appropriately colored

natural twine. Arrange the herbs in bundles, either randomly or
following numerical significance. Ensure the stems are cut
evenly at the bottom and neatly arranged at the top,
resembling a bouquet with a pleasing 360-degree aesthetic.

Begin by wrapping the twine around the base of the bundle

three times, securing it with three knots. Then, continue
SMOKE WAND wrapping the twine around the bundle until you reach the end.
Weave the twine back down, wrapping and tying it three more
times. Leave a loop at the top for hanging and/or drying
purposes. When burning the bundle, ensure it’s done in an
appropriate container.

Note that we do not use the word “smudge”. This is a practice

done with White Sage in a specific manner by various
indigenous tribes.

Bring 1000ml of water to a boil in a pot. Once it reaches boiling

point, removed from heat, add a cup of finely chopped herbs,
stir well, and cover the pot. Allow the herbs to steep in the hot
STEAM water for 15 minutes. Next, get a towel and create a tent over
your head. Inhale the steam, ensuring it's not too hot to scald
the skin, eyes, or nose, but warm enough to help open the air
passages.
HOW TO 32

PREPARATION SUGGESTIONS

HOW TO DO IT
WHAT ARE
SIMPLE STEPS
WE DOING?

Teas are water extracts categorized as either infusions or

decoctions. Infusions involve pouring cold or hot water over
herbs and letting them steep, while decoctions entail bringing
herbs to a boil.

For Hot Tea, add 1-2 tablespoons of dried or fresh, well-

chopped herbs to 300ml hot water, covering, and steeping for
5-10 minutes before drinking is recommended. Continue
pouring hot water over herbs until the flavor dissipates, a
practice known as drinking the herb “back to water”, honoring
all parts of the plant.

Cold Tea can be made using aromatic or mucilagenous plants

TEA by chopping herbs and placing 2 tablespoons per 300ml in
water, steeping for 20-45 minutes.

Make a potent Sun Tea by following the Cold Tea direction, then
placing herbs in the Sun for 2 - 6 hours covered.

Decoctions involve placing 3-4 tablespoons of chopped, thick

leaves, barks, roots, or hard berries into a pot with 500ml water,
bringing it to a light boil, simmering until desired strength,
removing from heat and steeping.

Please dispose of all extracted herbs in the garden or compost,

never in the trash.
RESOURCES 33

RESOURCES
WANT TO LEARN WITH SARAH WU
Link to All Courses

Permaculture for the Herbalist’s Path: 200hr in person training

Soul to Soil: Permaculture for Personal Development: 125hr in person training
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Plants of the Craft
Intro to Regenerative Herbalism
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WEBSITES

https://otherworldlyoracle.com
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https://entheology.com

BOOKS

"Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs" by Scott Cunningham

"The Green Witch: Your Complete Guide to the Natural Magic of Herbs, Flowers,
Essential Oils, and More" by Arin Murphy-Hiscock
"The Modern Herbal Dispensatory: A Medicine-Making Guide" by Thomas Easley
and Steven Horne
"Herbal Alchemist's Handbook: A Complete Guide to Magickal Herbs and How to
Use Them" by Karen Harrison
"The Herbal Magic Correspondences Guide: A Magickal Reference to the Planets,
Stars, and Elements" by Briana Blair

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GLOSSARY 34

GLOSSARY
Analgesic: Relieves or reduces pain without causing a loss of
consciousness.
Antibacterial: Destroys or inhibits the growth of bacteria.
Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation or swelling in the
body.
AntiOxidant: A compound that helps prevent cell damage
caused by free radicals in the body.
Astringent: Causes contraction or constriction of tissues, often
used to stop bleeding or reduce secretions.
Carminative: Relieves flatulence or gas from the digestive
system.
Diaphoretic: Induces perspiration, promoting sweating.
Digestive: Aids or supports the process of digestion.
Emetic: Induces vomiting.
Emmenagogue: Stimulates or increases menstrual flow.
Nephroprotective: Protects the kidneys from damage or
disease.
Nervine: Supports or strengthens the nervous system.
Nootropic: Enhances cognitive function or memory.
Purgative: Promotes bowel movements or acts as a laxative.
Styptic: Stops bleeding by causing tissues to contract.
Vasoconstrictive: Narrows or constricts blood vessels, reducing
blood flow.
Vasodilative: Widens or relaxes blood vessels, increasing blood
flow.
IMAGERY 35

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