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HERBS, OILS and INCENSES

CONTENTS

  1. HERBS
    1. Cloves
    2. Mint.
    3. Mugwort.
    4. St John's Wort.
    5. Vervain.
  2. ESSENTIAL OILS
    1. General notes on Aromatherapy and Essential Oils - to come
    2. Cajeput.
    3. Lemongrass.
    4. Petitgrain.
    5. Sandalwood.
  3. INCENSES
  4. TREES
    1. Acacia.
    2. Camphor Laurel.
    3. Melaleuca (Paperbarks).
  5. Go back to Main Menu

HERBS

CLOVES - Coryphyllus aromaticus

Cloves are native to the Moluccas and have since spread to many tropical areas courtesy of the Dutch and Portuguese traders.

Cloves are associated with the Sun and Jupiter and the element fire. Gender is hot.

Parts used are flower buds and oil.

Magical

Medicinal

Culinary

Craft

Spell to repel negativity -

Crush a few cloves, visualise a cyclone around your body - a psychic force so strong that all negativity is repelled.
Sniff the odour of the cloves fuse the scent and the visualisation in your mind - hold the image for about a minute.
Repeat this exercise once a day for a week.
When danger threatens, recall the scent and the visualisation.

WARNING: Clove oil may be a skin irritant and should be used with caution. Try a patch test if in doubt.

- contributed by Helen Quin

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MINT (Mentha sp.)

Family: N.O. Labiatae
Folk Names: Garden Mint
Part Used: Herb

Variants: Spearmint, Peppermint, Wild , Corn, Wild Water, Curled, Bergamot, Round-Leaved, Horsemint, American Horsemint.

Mint

Spearmint (Mentha viridis) and Peppermint (M. piperita) only are discussed here.

Description:

Spearmint: From creeping root-stocks, erect, square stems rise to a height of about 2 feet, bearing very short-stalked, acute-pointed, lance-shaped, wrinkled, bright green leaves, with finely toothed edges and smooth surfaces, the ribs very prominent beneath. The small flowers are densely arranged in whorls or rings in the axils of the upper leaves, forming cylindrical, slender, tapering spikes, pinkish or lilac in colour. The little labiate flowers are followed by very few, roundish, minute brownseeds. The taste and odour of the plant are very characteristic.

Peppermint: The leaves of this kind of mint are shortly but distinctly stalked, 2 inches or more in length, and 3/4 to 1 1/2 inches broad, their margins finely toothed, their surfaces smooth, both above and beneath, or only very slightly, hardly visibly, hairy on the principal veins and mid-rib on the underside. The stems, 2 to 4 feet high, are quadrangular, often purplish. The whorled clusters of little reddish-violet flowers are in the axils of the upper leaves, forming loose, interrupted spikes, and rarely bear seeds. The entire plant has a very characteristic odour, due to the volatile oil present in all its parts, which when applied to the tongue has a hot, aromatic taste at first, and afterwards produces a sensation of cold in the mouth caused by the menthol it contains.

Habitat: Peppermints is found throughout Europe, in moist situations, along stream banks and in waste lands, and is not unfrequent In damp places in England, but is not a common native plant, and probably is often an escape from cultivation. In America it is probably even more common as an escape than Spearmint, having long been known and grown in gardens.

Of the members of the mint family under cultivation the most important are the several varieties of the Peppermint (Mentha piperita), extensively cultivated for years as the source of the well-known volatile oil of Peppermint, used as a flavouring and therapeutic agent.

Cultivation: Both Peppermint and Spearmint thrive best in a fairly warm, preferably moist climate, and in deep soils rich in humus and retentive of moisture, but fairly open in texture and well drained, either naturally or artificially.

A moist situation is preferable, but mint will succeed in almost anysoil when once started into growth, though in dry, sandy soils it is sometimes difficult to grow, and should be planted in the coolest and dampest situations. Leaf mould, road scrapings, burnt ash and similar materials should, on the other hand, be used freely for lightening heavy, tenacious soils. It does best in a partially shaded position: if in a sheltered spot, it will start earlier in the spring than if exposed. Where a long or regular supply is required, it is a good plan to have at least one bed in a sunny and sheltered, and another in a shady position, where gatherings may be made both early and late.

As the plant is a perennial, spreading by means of its underground, creeping stems propagation may be easily effected by lifting the roots in February or March, dividing them - every piece showing a joint will grow - and planting again in shallow trenches, covering with 2 inches of soil. Six inches apart in the rows and 8 inches between the rows are the right distances to allow. Cuttings in summer or offsets in spring may also be utilized for increasing a stock. Cuttings may be taken at almost any time during the summer, always choosing the young shoots, these being struck on a shady border of light soil and kept moist, or a better plan, if possible, is to insert them in a frame, keeping them close and moist till rooted. Cuttings or young shoots will also strike freely in good-sized boxes in a heated greenhouse, in the early spring, and after the tops have been taken off two or three times for use, the plants may be hardened off and planted outside.

The beds are much benefited by an annual top-dressing of rich soil, applied towards the close of autumn, when all remaining stalks should be cut down to the ground. A liberal top-dressing of short, decayed manure, such as that from an old hot-bed or mushroom bed, annually, either in the spring, when it commences to grow, or better still, perhaps, after the first or second cutting, will ensure luxuriant growth. Frequent cuttings of shoots constitute a great drain on the plants, and if not properly nourished they will fail, more or less. To have really good mint, the plantation should be re-made about every three years, or failing that, it is essential that a good top-dressing of rich soil be added.

History: The Ancients used mint to scent their bath water and as a restorative, as we use smelling salts to-day. In Athens where every part of the body was perfumed with a different scent mint was specially designated to the arms. The Romans used it to sweeten the breath. Pliny recommended it for keeping vermin at bay (pennyroyal).

Pliny tells us that the Greeks and Romans crowned themselves with Peppermint at their feasts and adorned their tables with its sprays, and that their cooks flavoured both their sauces and their wines with its essence. Two species of mint were used by the ancient Greek physicians, but some writers doubt whether either was the modern Peppermint, though there is evidence that M. piperita was cultivated by the Egyptians. It is mentioned in the Icelandic Pharmacopoeias of the thirteenth century, but only came into general use in the medicine of Western Europe about the middle of the eighteenth century, and then was first used in England.

Correspondences:

  1. Planet: Mercury or Venus
  2. Element: Air
  3. Gender: Masculine
  4. Deities: Pluto, Hecate

Magical qualities:

  1. Money
  2. Lust
  3. Healing
  4. Travel
  5. Exorcism
  6. Protection
  7. Strength.
  8. Spearmint - Healing
  9. Spearmint - protection during sleep
  10. Peppermint - Conscious mind
  11. Peppermint - purification.

Mint has a long history of being used for healing, medicinally and in spells. It is also used in travel spells and to provoke lust. It is used for money and prosperity spells due to its crisp scent and bright green leaves (places a few leaves in your wallet).

To rid a place of evil, sprinkle salt water with a sprinkler made of fresh sprigs of mint, marjoram and rosemary. It is also kept in the home for protection.

The fresh herb laid on the altar will call good spirits to be present to aid you in your magical work.

Medicinal qualities: The properties of Spearmint oil resemble those of Peppermint, being stimulant, carminative and antispasmodic, but its effects are less powerful, and it is less used than Peppermint, though it is better adapted for children's maladies. A distilled water of Spearmint will relieve hiccough and flatulence as well as the giddiness of indigestion. For infantile trouble generally, the sweetened infusion is an excellent remedy, and is also a pleasant beverage in fevers, inflammatory diseases, etc. Make the infusion by pouring a pint of boiling water on an ounce of the dried herb; the strained-off liquid is taken in doses of a wineglassful or less. It is considered a specific in allaying nausea and vomiting and will relieve the pain of colic. A homoeopathic tincture prepared from the fresh plant in flower has been found serviceable in strangury, gravel, and as a local application in painful haemorrhoids. Its principal employment is for its febrifuge and diuretic virtues.

Peppermint oil is the most extensively used of all the volatile oils, both medicinally and commercially. The characteristic anti-spasmodic action of the volatile oil is more marked in this than in any other oil, and greatly adds to its power of relieving pains arising in the alimentary canal. From its stimulating, stomachic and carminative properties, it is valuable in certain forms of dyspepsia, being mostly used for flatulence and colic. It may also be employed for other sudden pains and for cramp in the abdomen; wide use is made of Peppermint in cholera and diarrhoea.

It is generally combined with other medicines when its stomachic effects are required, being also employed with purgatives to prevent griping. Oil of Peppermint allays sickness and nausea, and is much used to disguise the taste of unpalatable drugs, as it imparts its aromatic characteristics to whatever prescription it enters into. It is used as an infants' cordial.

In flatulent colic, spirit of Peppermint in hot water is a good household remedy, also the oil given in doses of one or two drops on sugar.

Peppermint is good to assist in raising internal heat and inducing perspiration, although its strength is soon exhausted. In slight colds or early indications of disease, a free use of Peppermint tea will, in most cases, effect a cure, an infusion of 1 ounce of the dried herb to a pint of boiling water being employed, taken in wineglassful doses; sugar and milk may be added if desired.

An infusion of equal quantities of Peppermint herb and Elder flowers (to which either Yarrow or Boneset may be added) will banish a cold or mild attack of influenza within thirty-six hours, and there is no danger of an overdose or any harmful action on the heart. Peppermint tea is used also for palpitation of the heart.

In cases of hysteria and nervous disorders, the usefulness of an infusion of Peppermint has been found to be well augmented by the addition of equal quantities of Wood Betony, its operation being hastened by the addition to the infusion of a few drops of tincture of Caraway.

SPELL USING MINT - PROSPERITY SPELL

-contributed by Chris Corbee.

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MUGWORT (Artemesia Vulgaris)

This herb is named after Artemis who is said to have found this group of plants.

Mugwort

Artemisia vulgaris is ruled by the planet Venus and the element Air.

MAGICKAL

  1. It is used for protection & clairvoyance.
  2. Placed in shoes it wards off fatigue.
  3. Carried, it protects against wild beasts and poison.
  4. Rub fresh young leaves on magic mirrors and crystal balls to strengthen their powers.
  5. Use in clairvoyance and scrying incenses.
  6. Hanging it in the house protects against lightning.
  7. Putting it under the doorstep ensures that no unwelcome person will enter.

MEDICINAL

  1. Aid digestion and ease stomach upsets.
  2. Expel intestinal worms.
  3. Ease menstrual difficulties.
  4. In earlier times, was used for epilepsy and fits.
  5. A leaf stuck up the nose is reputed to cure headache

The plant's powers are strongest on a full moon, so harvest before sunrise during the waxing moon from a plant that leans north.

- contributed by Helen Quin. (November 1997)

CAUTION!! Mugwort and its related variety known as Wormwood, are not only TOXIC in large doses, but WILL CAUSE FETAL ABNORMALITIES!!!! UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES USE EITHER OF THESE HERBS IF you even SUSPECT PREGNANCY, OR ARE BREAST FEEDING!!

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ST JOHN'S WORT (Hypericum perforatum)


Family: N.O. Hypericaceae

Parts Used---Herb tops, flowers.

Habitat---Britain and throughout Europe and Asia.

Description

St John's Wort

A herbaceous perennial growing freely wild to a height of 1 to 3 feet in uncultivated ground, woods, hedges, roadsides, and meadows; short, decumbent, barren shoots and erect stems branching in upper part, glabrous; leaves pale green, sessile, oblong, with pellucid dots or oil glands which may be seen on holding leaf to light. Flowers bright cheery yellow in terminal corymb. Calyx and corolla marked with black dots and lines; sepals and petals five in number; ovary pear-shaped with three long styles. Stamens in three bundles joined by their bases only. Blooms June to August, followed by numerous small round blackish seeds which have a resinous smell and are contained in a three-celled capsule; odour peculiar, terebenthic; taste bitter, astringent and balsamic.

There are many ancient superstitions regarding this herb. Its name Hyperieum is derived from the Greek and means 'over an apparition,' a reference to the belief that the herb was so obnoxious to evil spirits that a whiff of it would cause them to fly.

Medicinal Action and Uses

Aromatic, astringent, resolvent, expectorant and nervine. Used in all pulmonary complaints, bladder troubles, in suppression of urine, dysentery, worms, diarrhoea, hysteria and nervous depression, haemoptysis and other haemorrhages and jaundice. For children troubled with incontinence of urine at night an infusion or tea given before retiring will be found effectual; it is also useful in pulmonary consumption, chronic catarrh of the lungs, bowels or urinary passages. Externally for fomentations to dispel hard tumours, caked breasts, ecchymosis, etc.

Preparations and Dosages

1 oz. of the herb should be infused in a pint of water and 1 to 2 tablespoonsful taken as a dose. Fluid extract, 1/2 to 1 drachm.

The oil of St. John's Wort is made from the flowers infused in olive oil.

- contributed by Helen Quin, Temple of the Spiralled Web

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VERVAIN (Verbena officinalis)


Family: N.O. Verbenaceae
Synonyms---Herb of Grace. Herbe Sacrée. Herba veneris.

Parts Used---Leaves, flowering heads.

Habitat---Europe, Barbary, China, Cochin-China, Japan.

Description

In England the Common Vervain is found growing by roadsides and in sunny pastures. It is a perennial bearing many small, pale-lilac flowers. The leaves are opposite, and cut into toothed lobes. The plant has no perfume, and is slightly bitter and astringent in taste.

The name Vervain is derived from the Celtic ferfaen, from fer (to drive away) and faen (a stone), as the plant was much used for affections of the bladder, especially calculus.

Another derivation is given by some authors from Herba veneris, because of the aphrodisiac qualities attributed to it by the Ancients. Priests used it for sacrifices, and hence the name Herba Sacra.

The name Verbena was the classical Roman name for 'altar-plants' in general, and for this species in particular. The druids included it in their lustral water, and magicians and sorcerers employed it largely.

It was used in various rites and incantations, and by ambassadors in making leagues. Bruised, it was worn round the neck as a charm against headaches, and also against snake and other venomous bites as well as for general good luck. It was thought to be good for the sight. Its virtues in all these directions may be due to the legend of its discovery on the Mount of Calvary, where it staunched the wounds of the crucified Saviour. Hence, it is crossed and blessed with a commemorative verse when it is gathered. It must be picked before flowering, and dried promptly.

Constituents

The plant appears to contain a peculiar tannin, but it has not yet been properly analysed.

Medicinal Action and Uses

It is recommended in upwards of thirty complaints, being astringent, diaphoretic, antispasmodic, etc. It is said to be useful in intermittent fevers, ulcers, ophthalmia, pleurisy, etc., and to be a good galactogogue. It is still used as a febrifuge in autumn fevers.

As a poultice it is good in headache, ear neuralgia, rheumatism, etc. In this form it colours the skin a fine red, giving rise to the idea that it had the power of drawing the blood outside.

A decoction of 2 oz. to a quart, taken in the course of one day, is said to be a good medicine in purgings, easing pain in the bowels. It is often applied externally for piles. It is used in homoeopathy.

A leaf decoction makes a good astringent hair tonic, as well as being good to revive tired skin. A weak decoction of the leaves is used as an eye wash.

The aerial parts when decocted and drunk, acts as a nerve tonic, liver stimulant, and is used to increase milk production in lactating mothers.

The flowering tops may be infused to treat cases of jaundice, nervous headaches, depression, urinary and stomach problems.

It can also be used to treat the bowels and the cramps associated with menstruation.

Fluid extract, 1/2 to 1 drachm.

Other Species

  1. Verbena Jamaicensis (JAMAICA VERVAIN) grows in Jamaica, Barbados, and other West Indian islands, bearing violet flowers. The juice is used in dropsy and for children as an anthelmintic and cooling cathartic. The negroes use it as an emmenagogue, and for sore and inflamed eyes. As a poultice, with wheat-flour, the bruised leaves are used for swelling of the spleen, and for hard tumours at their commencement.
  2. V. Lappulaceae (BURRY VERVAIN), another West Indian herb, with pale blue flowers, is a vulnerary sub-astringent, being used even for very severe bleeding wounds in men and cattle, especially in Jamaica.
  3. V. hastata (BLUE VERVAIN, Wild Hyssop, Simpler's Joy) is indigenous to the United States, and is used unofficially as a tonic emetic, expectorant, etc., for scrofula, gravel, and worms. A fluid extract is prepared from the dried, over-ground portion.
  4. V. Urticifolia. The root, boiled in milk and water with the inner bark of Quercus Alba, is said to be an antidote to poisoning by Rhus Toxicodendron.
  5. V. Sinuata. An infusion of the root, taken as freely as possible, is said to be a valuable antisyphilitic.

Magickal Associations

  1. Venus
  2. Water.

Still considered sacred in many cultures.

This herb was used by the ancients for purification, visions and in love potions. It saw wide use as an aphrodisiac and flavoured liqueurs.

Use in magickal cleansing baths prior to rituals involving Venus or love.

A purification incense can be made from the ground dried leaves.

Hanging it above the bed where you sleep is said to keep away nightmares.

Use in prosperity charms.

- contributed by Helen Quin, Temple of the Spiralled Web.

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ESSENTIAL OILS

CAJEPUT


(Melaleuca leucadendron)

Also known as white tea tree, swamp tea tree.

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LEMONGRASS

  1. Botanical Name: Cymbopogon citratus (Andropogon citratus)
    Family:
    Gramineae.
    Synonyms:
    Andropogon citratus also known as West Indian lemongrass;
    Andropogon
    flexuosus also known as East Indian lemongrass.
  2. Place of origin: Native to Asia, now cultivated mainly in the West Indies, Africa, and tropical Asia.
    Other species:
    There are several varieties of lemongrass of which the East Indian and the West Indian types are most common.
  3. lemongrassDescription: A fast growing, tall aromatic perennial grass up to 1.5 metres high.
  4. Characteristics:
  5. Part of plant used: Fresh and partially dried leaves.
  6. Method of extraction: Steam distillation.
  7. History:

    Employed in traditional Indian medicine for infectious illness and fever; modern research in India shows that it also acts as a sedative on the central nervous system.Also used as food seasoning.

  8. Chemical constituents A typical chemical composition of lemongrass is reported as follows:

    Constituent C. flexuosus C. citratus
    myrcene 0.21% 19.2%
    limonene 7.77% Trace
    linalool 1.1% -
    citronellal 0.25% 0.1%
    citral 79.1% Trace
    geranyl acetate 0.85% 1.00%
    nerol 0.33% 0.3%
    geraniol 1.95% 0.5%
    neral - 28%
    geranial - 55.9%
    borneol 0.4% 0.1-0.4%

  9. Blends well with: Basil, bergamot, cedarwood, geranium, lavender, lemon, niaouli, palmarosa, petitgrain, rosemary, tea tree.
  10. Properties:
    1. Analgesic. (Orafidiya: due to myrcene. Phytotherapy Res. 7: 121-26; 1993)
    2. Antidepressant, nervine, sedative.
    3. Antiseptic, antimicrobial, antibacterial, fungicidal, insecticidal, insect repellent.
    4. Antipyretic, febrifuge.
    5. Astringent, tonic (especially kidneys, adrenals and connective tissue).
    6. Carminative.
    7. Deodorant.
    8. Galactagogue.
    9. Diuretic (reduces body volume and tightens tissues).
  11. Indications and Effects:
    1. Mind & Spirit:
      • Uplifting and stimulating, invigorating, reviving, energising.
      • Clears the head, and results in temporary suppression of all limitations.
      • Good for intellectual concentration and focus.
      • Increases reflexes and speed at which one can recognise input of body.
      • Used for those with fear, especially of being overwhelmed, but who need to be active.
      • Activates the KI YANG.
      • Used for jet lag, mental fatigue, nervous exhaustion and stress-related conditions.
      • [Note: Buchbauer (109) investigated a number of inhaled essential oils. Lemongrass oil was found to amplify over-agitation induced by caffeine injection while lavender reduced the over-agitation. This finding is contrary to the reputed sedative effects of the inhaled odour of lemongrass.]
    2. Body:
      • Excellent tonic - boosts parasympathetic system, thus aiding recovery from illness.
      • Used to prevent contagion (antiseptic) and for sore throats and respiratory infections.
      • Useful in Gastric upsets and colitis and indigestion (nervine, carminative, antimicrobial, antipyretic, and analgesic and tonic effects).
      • Used for sports injuries, sprains, bruises and dislocation (connective tissue tonic, analgesic). According to Dietrich Gumbel , lemongrass is the 'connective tissue oil'. It has an excellent effect for aching muscles, relieves pain making them more supple. He suggests that 'One should not miss the application of this oil in the after-care of sports accidents, sprains, inner effusions of blood, bruises and dislocations.
      • Stimulates adrenal in pm, exhausts it in am.
      • Increase size of breasts (Valnet).
    3. Skin & Hair:
      • Good for open pores and acne (tonic, astringent, antiseptic and antimicrobial). NB: not recommended for this purpose because it is known to be a dermal irritant.
      • Used for scabies and pediculosis.
      • Hair tonic.
  12. Side Effects:
  13. Dosage: generally up to 1% if applied. Caution with skin and long term use.
  14. Magickal:
    1. Properties:
      • Psychic awareness
      • Purification.
      • Concentration and Alertness
      • Energizing
      • Lust
      • Repel snakes
    2. Correspondences:
      • Mercury.
      • Air.
      • Masculine.
    3. Ritual for Concentration

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PETITGRAIN


Citrus aurantium amara
  1. Origin: Native to Southern China and NE India; now cultivated in France (the best - Petitgrain bigarade), Paraguay, North Africa and Haiti. Used in Eau de Cologne. Means "little grains" because it originally was made from the unripe fruit rather than the leaves.
  2. Extraction: Steam distilled from the leaves and twigs.
  3. Description: Leaves and twigs from same bitter-orange tree as neroli (flowers) and bitter orange (fruit).
  4. Characteristics:
  5. Indications and Effects:
    1. Mind & Spirit:
      • Balancing, uplifting and refreshing.
      • - It is used for balance in mind and emotion.
      • - Promotes alertness, joy, positivity and restfulness, and calms anger and panic.
      • - Activates conscious intellectual aspect of the mind
      • It is therefore useful for:
        1. nervous exhaustion, including burnout, depression and mental fatigue;
        2. negativity such as dejection, anger, misery and mental trauma;
        3. mental confusion and amnesia.
        4. insomnia.
        5. convalescence
    2. Body:
      • Sedative effect on nervous system, therefore useful in rapid heartbeat and insomnia.
      • Useful for flatulence and dyspepsia. (digestive and stomachic).
      • Deodorising.
    3. Skin & Hair:
      • Tones skin and helps clear pimples, especially if due to excessive perspiration and greasy skin (tonic, antiseptic and deodorant).
  6. Side Effects: None.
  7. Dosage: generally up to 1% if applied (eg on wrists). Can be used indefinitely.
  8. Magickal:
    1. Properties
      • Protection
      • Conscious mind
      • Clearing away any mental cobwebs and sharpening thought processes.
    2. Correspondences:
      • Sun
      • Fire.

SANDALWOOD

  1. Botanical Name:Santalum album.
    Family:
    Santalaceae.
    Synonyms:
    East Indian sandalwood, Mysore sandalwood.
  2. Place of origin: Native of Asia. The region of Mysore, India exports the highest quality oil. Also from Indonesia and East Asia
    Other species:
    The Australian sandalwood (S. spicatum) produces a very similar oil, but with a dry bitter top note. The West Indian sandalwood (Amyris balsamifera) is a poor substitute and bears no botanical relation to the East Indian sandalwood.
  3. Description: A small, evergreen, parasitic tree up to 9 metres high. The tree must be over 30 years old before it is ready for the production of sandalwood oil.
  4. Characteristics:
  5. Part of plant used: Timber, inner heartwood. (roughly chopped and powdered wood).
  6. Method of extraction: Steam or water distillation.
  7. History: Sandalwood has a long history. In ancient India it was widely used in religious ceremonies. It was also used for genito-urinary afflictions. In India and Egypt it was used as a perfume, and was an ingredient of many cosmetics.
    While the sandalwood is valued for its essential oil, the closely-grained, fine, pale yellow wood was often referred to as 'botanical ivory' as the wood is used for carved objects of high quality Furnitue and buildings, esp. temples).
    The spread of the use of sandalwood throughout Asia followed the spread of Buddhism. The use of powdered sandalwood as incense is an example of how sandalwood has always been considered the aromatic foundation of Buddhist practice.
    In Tantric ceremonies, it is smeared on the body, and the Kama Sutra describes its use as an ointment.
  8. Chemical constituents A typical chemical composition of sandalwood is reported as follows:

    Constituent 10 year old tree 30 year old tree
    oil percentage 0.9% 4.0%
    santalois 74.6% 89.2%
    santyl acetate 5.4% 3.5%
    santalenes 4.9% 2.3%

    The best quality sandalwood essential oil has a high santalol content and is manufactured from the heartwood of trees which are at least 30 years old. The Indian standard for Mysore sandalwood oil is that it contain a minimum of 90% santalois.

  9. Blends well with: Basil, bergamot, black pepper, cypress, atlas cedarwood, frankincense, geranium, jasmine, lavender, lemon, myrrh, neroli, orange, palmarosa, rose, vetiver, ylang-ylang.
  10. Properties:
    1. Antiphlogistic and antiseptic, esp urinary and pulmonary systems [Note: does not work in lab, therefore probably mediated by enhancing immune system]
    2. Antispasmodic
    3. Astringent, Tonic (esp reproductive system and tissue)
    4. Carminative
    5. Cicatrisant
    6. Diuretic (regulates diuresis)
    7. Emmenagogue
    8. Emollient
    9. Expectorant
    10. Sedative
  11. Indications and Effects:
    1. Mind & Spirit:
      • Uplifting, yet soothing; therefore allows easy meditation.
      • Seals the aura, and so is useful in easily manipulated people and those with spatial problems (esp personal space)
      • Calming, harmonising effect helping to reduce tension, aggression, quarrelsomeness and confusion.
      • Remedy for Nervous depression, rejection, emotional burnout, feelings of worthlessness.
      • Overcomes fear (esp of failing), stress, and a hectic daily lifestyle, especially fear-induced amnesia.
      • Allows focus, so one can do whatever is required without being distracted.
      • Helps guide one back to inner peace from worry, anxiety and guilt,
      • Counters the fear of impending death.
      • Helps break old habits of thought and behaviour, to allow new and spontaneous interaction.
      • The yogis describe sandalwood oil as the fragrance of the 'subtle body', the centre of the highest insight and enlightenment.
      • It has been assigned to the root chakra, seat of the fertility organs and sexuality. It has long been considered an aphrodisiac.
      • According to Susanne Fischer Rizzi: 'Sandalwood oil aids people who want to make human contact and overcome isolation. Sandalwood helps them accept others with an open heart and diminish their egocentricity. Sandalwood oil fosters openness, warmth and understanding.'
      • Keywords are: Contentment, Creativity, Joy, restfulness, Self-awareness, Self-esteem, Self-image. It is easy to see how it is the meditation oil.
    2. Body:
      • Pronounced action on the mucous membranes of the genito-urinary tract - is often used for chronic infections. It can be used as a douche or bath for vaginal, pelvic and urinary infections.
      • Pronounced action on the mucous membranes of the pulmonary tracts - is often used for chronic infections. It will also relieve a dry cough and catarrh.
      • Relieves intestinal spasm and inflammation and may be useful in colic and gastritis. It is also useful for the treatment of chronic and acute diarrhoea.
      • Stimulates reproductive system, and can be used as an aphrodisiac (by allowing focus and reducing distractions - overcomes impotence and frigidity). It will regulate menstruation towards a moon cycle - esp mentruation at Full Moon.
    3. Skin & Hair:
      • Skincare for dehydrated skin.
      • Relieves itching and inflammation of the skin.
      • As a mild astringent it is also excellent to use in oily skin conditions.
      • used as a compress, it is a good cicatrisant. It can be used neat or with hypericum or calendula.
  12. Side Effects:
  13. Dosage: up to 3%, usually around 1%. Use for one month on, one month off (unless Indian, when it is safe to use all the time)
  14. Magickal:
    1. Properties:
      • Spirituality esp when mixed with frankincense.
      • Meditation
      • Sex
      • Healing
      • Protection
      • Healing
      • Clear negativity
      • Conjuration of spirits, esp when used with lavender.
    2. Correspondences:
      • Root Chakra
      • Moon
      • Water
      • Feminine
    3. Ritual for Concentration

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INCENSES

TREES

ACACIA

- contributed by Donna-Marée Wyatt

WATTLES Few people realise just how many species of wattle are found in Australia; even botanists cannot be precise about the total number of species, which is somewhere between 850 and 1000. It is also difficult to positively say whether or not certain species area indigenous or introduced. The mimosa bush (Acacia farnesiana) is a good example. Mimosa is often recorded as being introduced from Africa, yet dryland Aborigines have an established use for the thorns as a treatment for snake bite, and the cooked seeds have been recorded as being used as food while still green, in similar fashion to English garden peas.

Generally, wattles range from woody shrubs to medium trees and their leaves may be true and bipinnate, or modified to phyllodes, or absent with modified stems (cladodes) acting as leaves. Flowers form into gobular heads or cylindrical spikes and the fruits are a bean containing seeds with a hard black or brown seed coat. Some of the seeds have a persistent tail or aril which is a fleshy structure holding the seed in the pod. Arils vary in colour from white to yellow to red with white ones being attractive to ants which distribute the seed while collecting arils. Coloured arils attract birds which then become the main seed-spreading agents.

Wattles offer many foods for foragers; particular species have edible seeds, gum or roots. Seeds and roots are usually roasted and gums can be eaten as they are found or made into jelly by soaking or heating in water; you can add a sweetener to the jelly or use one of the species which forms a naturally sweet gum.

Nutritionally, wattles are high in protein but it is not yet known if the protein is as complete as in meat or soybeans. Other major nutrients in the seeds are fat ( some of it polyunsaturated), complex carbohydrate, fibre and various trace metals. Wattle gums are nearly 100 per cent soluble fibre and edible roots provide carbohydrates and minerals.

Few accounts relate the importance of wattle seeds to particular Aboriginal groups. The Alyawarra people, whose tribal lands are to the north-east of Alice Springs, traditionally used the seeds of at least fifteen (15) species of which several were used as staple food throughout the year. There were Aborigines who described themselves as either shrub seed people or grass seed people, depending upon the importance of their dietary mainstay (to both their nutrition and their Dreaming)

Although it was the Aborigines in drylands regions of Australia who relied most upon wattle seeds as dietary items, others did not ignore them. Six (6) species have been recorded as being used as food and as fish poisons by Aborigines of the Beecroft Peninsula south of Sydney. The Mayali people of Western Arnhem Land ate the seeds of two (2) wattle species while an additional fifteen (15) species were part of their material culture. In the Kalumburu area of the northern Kimberley the seeds of only a single species were eaten.

The Aborigines in and around Sydney used the seeds of at least three (3) species (A. longifolia, A. sophorea and A. suaveolens). These were eaten green after steaming rather than milled into a flour. Unlike dryland people, the Sydney Aborigines did not have damper as a staple dish. The Sydney golden wattle (A longifolia) was also used in the local bush calendar since its flowering signalled the time to fish for mullet.

As it appears the rains have finally eased up a bit, we find ourselves already approaching the longer warmer days. As if to signal the change in the seasons, the hills and roadsides in many areas have been awash with the golden show put on by our local wattles.

Wattles, known to the botanical world as Acacia, are probably Australia's largest single plant genus (the real number is unclear, as we still 'discover' rare or previously unknown varieties and species). With more than 700 species in virtually every habitat, from the coast to the mountains, from the rainforest to the outback. From almost prostrate shrubs to larger trees, the variety of foliage is huge, from grey or silver to smooth and shiny deep green, though almost the whole genus has golden to yellow clustered flowers that give them their distinctive look when in flower. Despite some early competition from the Waratah to be Australia's national floral symbol (it is now the NSW floral emblem), the ubiquitous Wattle was early recognised by colonial Australians as a unique and distinctive symbol of the Australian bush.

Around the turn of the century, stimulated by the changes wrought by Federation, a popular movement arose around Wattle Day, which was generally celebrated on the 1st of Sep, or in some cases 1st of Aug. Sprigs of Wattle were worn on the day and often excursions to the bush or picnics took place. The colours of the Wattle, green and gold, was taken up by Australian sporting teams, sprigs of Wattle were sent to troops during the War, and sold to raise funds for charity.

Perhaps it is the informal attitude, or just laziness of Australians, that despite the widespread recognition of it as a suitable floral emblem for the turn of the century. It was not until Sep 1st, 1988, that the Wattle was officially named as Australia's floral emblem, only after a campaign of letter writing and lobbying the federal parliament by a Nth Tablelands woman Maria Hitchcock, who subsequently published a book simply entitled "Wattle", about the history and botany of the Wattle in modern Australia and the campaign to have it gazetted as the national floral emblem. Well before any of this though, was the relationship developed over millennia between the Aboriginal people and these hardy and useful plants.

The Aboriginal people utilised Wattle trees for innumerable purposes, and despite the eradication of much of the record about this, especially in the eastern areas of the continent, it is still evident how important they were for the Aboriginal people.

Uses included as a source of food, from seeds and gums to wijuti (witchetty) grubs (found in the roots of Acacia). As sources of timber for tools and weapons of all sorts, as many Acacia have very hard, and sometimes heavy wood, ideal for making hard wearing implements. As a source of medicine for many different conditions, including as smoking medicines for strengthening child and mother after birth. As a source of high quality ash for use with their Pituri and other botanical drugs they prepared. As calender plants, the flowering times being used to identify the changing seasons, and availability of various food sources in different areas. In many cases the Aboriginal names have continued as common names (mulga, myall, gidgee, gundabluey), in contrast to most other native plants. Suggesting again the value and widespread importance of many Acacia to Aboriginal people, and subsequently to the colonial Australians, who often used some of the more common species after learning from the Aboriginals of their value.

In more recent times the qualities of the Wattle have been used for timber in tropical regions, drought tolerant food and firewood crops for many countries in semi-arid to arid Africa. For the cut flower industry in southern France and Mediterranean Europe, where the cultivation of Wattle flower has become a small industry. Both in Australia and overseas they are planted widely for re-vegetation and soil stabilisation work, often in near coastal, roadside and otherwise difficult situations. Some of these plants having succeeded so well that they are now regarded as noxious weeds themselves, after spreading wildly in their new home.

An ideal native tree for re-vegetation, through their ability to add nitrogen from the atmosphere to enrich the soil. They are fast growing and make ideal windbreaks and nurse trees for young orchards and timber lots. Some make useful garden plants, making a brilliant show when in flower. In our local area we have a few endemic species of interest as well, one known as the Nightcap Wattle (Acacia orites) gets it name from occurring exclusively in the Nightcap Range and the Border Ranges area. Often found in huge numbers where the forest has been disturbed or harvested, it is one of the first elements of re-establishing the local sub-tropical rainforests of the Big Scrub, but perhaps a bit big for your average garden, sometimes growing to over 25m.

A useful and significant family of plants for millennia on this continent. It seems fitting that on the first day of spring we should be honouring one of our brightest and most well known native plants, just as it's golden flowers are appearing to tell us of the coming months of sunshine... well we're hoping for the sunshine anyway!

"Here's the Wattle, the emblem of our land,
you can stick it in a bottle or hold it in your hand"

-- Woolloomooloo University Philosophy Department

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CAMPHOR LAUREL

Chipped camphor wood boiled on the stove drives away cooking odours and freshens the whole house. Shavings of this tree can be used as an incense to purify in rites. It can work as eucalyptus oil works when colds abound.

The inner bark of the camphor laurel makes a good poultice to treat infected cuts or scratches. It can be pound up with a mortar and pestle and applied directly on the infected wound and binded with a cotton bandage so that the wound and plaster can breathe. The dressing should be changed every day.

The sap or juices extracted by pressing the softer twigs is an antiseptic and anti-viral agent but the work involved is probably not worth it.

It exudes a magickal essence around its base and under a large camphor laurel is an ideal place for contemplation, reflection and inspiration.

The little black berries produced by the camphor laurel are reputed to be poisonous but there is a special mistletoe that grows on the trees which produce red berries and not only has the properties of the European mistletoe but also has a property of great protection.

Courtesy from The New Barbarian.

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Melaleuca (PAPERBARKS)

- contributed by Donna-Marée Wyatt -

Paperbarks belong to the genus Melaleuca from the Greek words melos, black, and leukos, white, referring to the mottled black and white bark on some species. There are about 140 species, known mostly for their decorative peeling bark and colourful flower spikes on which hundreds of long-stamened flowers are arranged in the form of a bottlebrush, generally white or cream in the tree-sized species. They range in size from small shrubs to large trees up to 30 metres high. The most common species is the broad-leaved paperbark which grows in the coastal brackish swamps of eastern Australia.

The handsome paperbarks grow to about 12 metres and have very soft papery bark made up of many thin sheets which peel off and hang in tatters. This bark comprises layers of dead cells which form outside the living bark to provide protection against water loss and extremes in temperature. As the tree grows, the dead cells, unable to grow with it, become detached in sheets. Sheets of paperbark were greatly appreciated by the Aborigines who used them as covering for their shelters and to make drinking and water-carrying utensils.

The Aborigines also used paperbark leaves for headaches, coughs and runny nose. The tips of very young paperbark trees growing around swamps are crushed in the hands and sniffed deeply. The leaves are also soaked in hot water on the fire and the steam inhaled, after which the leaves and liquid are rubbed on the forehead. Broad-leaved paperbark leaves area also made into an infusion and drunk in small quantities for coughs. This infusion can be poured over the body for generalised aches and pains. This medicine was once used throughout Australia, and makes this tree a most appropriate one for the middle of winter, with its accompanying coughs, colds and body aches and pains!

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Blessed be and Never Thirst from Kim and Quenten.

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Created by Quenten Walker on 3rd July 1997
Last Updated by Quenten and Kim Bruce-Walker on 1st August, 2000.