Essential Oil Profiles
Allspice
Botanical Name: Pimenta officinalis, syn. P. dioica
Family: Myrtaceae
Also Known As: Jamaican pepper, myrtle pepper, pimenta, pimento berry or leaf
Allspice comes from an evergreen tree with leathery leaves, clusters of small, white flowers, and tiny, green berries that turn brown as they ripen. The genus name Pimenta comes from the Spanish pimienta for black pepper because the dried berries resemble peppercorns. The name allspice was given by English botanist John Ray (1627–1705), who described it as tasting like a combination of clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Although Christopher Columbus is credited with discovering allspice in 1494, it was used by the Mayans for centuries as an ingredient in the embalming process. Indigenous to the West Indies and South America, allspice was introduced into Europe in the 1500s and reached England around 1600. Today allspice is often used as a “pepper” in five-pepper blends.
Oil and Blending Information
Two oils are obtained through steam distillation.
The oil from the leaves is yellowish-red to brownish and has a sweet-spicy scent.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves
Warning: may cause skin irritation
The oil from the berries is pale yellow with a sweet, warm, spicy scent.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Fruit
Warning: may cause skin irritation
Magical Uses
Allspice is an oil of attraction and energy (leaf oil). It can be employed to attract good luck, money, and love. Its association with spirituality and purification makes allspice a good choice for consecrating amulets, altars, and ritual space. Allspice is a powerful energy raiser, especially for magic. Use it in element magic as well as to manifest abundance (berry oil). Other magical uses include communication, courage, determination, friends/friendship, growth (leaf oil), healing, kindness, power, prosperity, purpose (leaf oil), strength, and success (berry oil).
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries, Scorpio
Solar System: Mars
Elements: air (leaf oil), earth, fire, water (berry oil)
Celebration: Samhain
Amyris
Botanical Name: Amyris balsamifera
Family: Rutaceae
Also Known As: candlewood, torchwood, West Indian sandalwood
Amyris was formerly known as West Indian sandalwood oil until 1886, when it was discovered to have no relation to the true sandalwood (Santalum album). Amyris’s resinous wood made it useful in the past for lighting, which is the source of its names candlewood and torchwood. Native to the West Indies and South America, amyris is a small, bushy tree with compound leaves (leaflets along a stem) and clusters of small, white flowers.
Oil and Blending Information
A pale yellow oil is steam-distilled from the wood and branches. Its scent is woody and cedar-like with warm, vanilla undertones.
Strength: 2
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: base
Plant Part: So Below/Wood and Bark
Magical Uses
Amyris can be described as Otherworldly because it supports work in the astral realm. It opens the doorway between the conscious and subconscious areas of the mind, stimulating memories and increasing creativity as well as enhancing dream and past-life work. Amyris aids in releasing misconceptions and negative thoughts, paving the way for self-acceptance, growth, and transformation. This oil is instrumental in attuning to the cycles of the natural world and moon energy as well as personal rhythms. Amyris is also associated with balance, protection, purpose, and strength.
Correspondences
Solar System: Moon, Venus
Element: earth
Angelica
Botanical Name: Angelica archangelica
Family: Apieceae
Also Known As: angelic herb, archangel, garden angelica
Growing up to six feet tall, angelica’s purple stems support large leaves and umbels (umbrella-shaped clusters) of greenish-white flowers. I have angelica in a corner of my garden, where it adds an exotic accent. In medieval Latin it was called herba angelica (angelic herb) because it was believed to be powerful enough to protect against the plague, enchantments, and evil spirits. Native to Europe, the name angelica may have come from the Greek angelos, meaning “messenger.”18 Angelica was used in spells and rituals as well as worn for protection against evil spirits and Witches. This herb was believed to be especially useful against dark magic. Over time the use of angelica was adapted from Pagan festivals into Christian celebrations of Saint Michael. It was a prized medicinal herb for centuries and a valuable commodity during the Renaissance (circa 1400–1600).
Oil and Blending Information
Steam distillation is used to obtain two oils.
The oil from the rhizome (a type of root) is colorless or pale yellow and turns yellow-brown with age. It has a rich and herbaceous, earthy scent.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle to base
Plant Part: So Below/Roots
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; diabetics should avoid; causes photosensitivity
The oil from the seeds is colorless and has a herbaceous, earthy scent with a spicy hint.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: As Above and So Below/Seeds
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; diabetics should avoid
Magical Uses
First and foremost angelica is a protector, a guardian angel so to speak. It protects against and can break hexes and spells, and is useful in protecting against and banishing evil. Angelica also provides protection during dreamwork and divination. It is associated with the Otherworld (root oil), stability (root oil), and longevity. It can break up and clear away negative energy, providing psychic protection during channeling. Angelica is also helpful in dealing with problems and manifesting what you seek. In providing spiritual support, angelica aids in listening to higher self for inspiration, growth, healing, and knowledge. The seed oil is especially helpful for balance, beginnings, changes, and renewal. The root oil is helpful with grounding energy and keeping secrets. Angelica is instrumental in angel and element magic, and is ideal for consecrating an altar, ritual, and magic tools. Angelica is also associated with beauty, cycles, peace, power, purification, stimulation, strength, and success.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries, Leo
Solar System: Sun
Celebrations: Beltane, Imbolc, Samhain, Walpurgis
Elements: earth (root oil), fire (seed oil)
Goddess: Venus
Anise
Botanical Name: Pimpinella anisum, syn. Anisum officinalis
Family: Apiaceae
Also Known As: aniseed, sweet cumin
Native to Egypt, anise was also cultivated there and used medicinally for about 4000 years. It is an erect herb with feathery leaves and umbels of delicate white to yellow flowers. The ancient Greeks and Romans used anise after dinner cakes to aid digestion. It was a highly prized commodity to the Romans, who actually used the seeds to pay their taxes. Greek philosopher Theophrastus (372–288 BCE), who became known as the father of botany, noted that anise seeds by one’s bed at night resulted in sweet dreams. Today, in addition to culinary and medicinal purposes, it is used to flavor liqueurs such as anisette and Benedictine.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam-distilling the seeds produces a pale yellow oil with a spicy-sweet, liquorice-like scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: As Above and So Below/Seeds
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; use in moderation; may cause skin irritation
Magical Uses
Anise is a powerful ally for divination and dreamwork. It aids in developing and increasing psychic abilities, especially clairvoyance, and offers psychic protection, particularly when dealing with the Otherworld. This protection extends to banishing evil and clearing negative energy. Anise is instrumental in stimulating the mind, heightening awareness, attracting spirits, and connecting with other realms. Anise is associated with purification and consecration as well as attracting blessings to the home. Use it to deal with emotions, loss, and love. Anise is associated with fertility, growth, sexuality, and marriage. It is instrumental when initiating change for renewal and starting over. Anise is also associated with balance, cycles, happiness, luck, money, and well-being.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aquarius, Gemini, Leo, Pisces, Sagittarius
Celebration: Walpurgis
Solar System: Jupiter, Mars, Mercury
Elements: air, fire
Goddess: Hecate
Gods: Apollo, Mercury
Basil
Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum
Family: Lamiaceae
Also Known As: common basil, French basil, sweet basil
Basil’s species name comes from a combination of the Greek words basileus, meaning “king,” and basilokos, meaning “royal.”19 To the Greeks basil was the king of plants and an ingredient in the oil used to anoint sovereigns. Basil wreaths have been found in Egyptian tombs, and in later centuries it was used in funerary rites throughout the Mediterranean region. First-century Greek physician Dioscorides noted in his Materia Medica that basil countered the sting of scorpions. In the Middle Ages it was thought to protect against scorpions, and by the nineteenth century it was associated with the zodiac sign of Scorpio. Basil was used as a strewing herb scattered on floors to clear the air as well as to protect a home against Witches. In Italy it symbolized love and was thought to be an aphrodisiac. Indigenous to Africa and Asia, basil has shiny, oval leaves and whorls of small, white flowers.
Oil and Blending Information
The leaves and flower tops are steam-distilled, producing a colorless or pale yellow oil. It has a herbaceous, sweet-spicy scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves and Flowers
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; avoid use if you have epilepsy or other seizure disorder; use in moderation; may cause skin irritation
Magical Uses
Basil aids divination skills and is instrumental in developing psychic abilities, especially clairvoyance. It is also used for psychic protection. Stimulating and refreshing, basil brings clarity for decision-making as well as determining one’s purpose in life. Basil bolsters courage for defense and success. In addition, it engenders a sense of happiness, confidence, and strength. Basil promotes healthy relationships, smoothing problems between lovers, particularly where fidelity is concerned. Use it to attract love as well as to release hexes and banish negativity. Basil also aids in honoring and remembering the dead and easing sorrow. Its use in angel, defensive, and element magic is boosted by its association with dragon energy. Basil is an herb of the home, protecting it against evil entities, attracting blessings, comfort, luck, peace, and prosperity. This herb is also associated with trust, concentration, and healing. For couples, basil helps with sexual issues, manifesting desires, fertility, and increasing vitality. Other magical associations are balance, beauty, changes, friendship, growth, money, and purification.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries, Leo, Scorpio
Solar System: Mars, Pluto, Venus
Elements: air, fire
Celebration: Imbolc
Goddesses: Erzulie, Lakshmi
Gods: Krishna, Vishnu
Bay
Botanical Name: Laurus nobilis
Family: Lauraceae
Also Known As: bay laurel, sweet bay, true bay
Bay is an evergreen tree with leathery leaves, small yellow flowers, and shiny black berries. Native to the Mediterranean, its genus name comes from the Latin laurus, meaning “to praise,” and nobilis, meaning “famous.”20 It was customary for ancient Greeks and Romans to praise people of accomplishment with crowns of laurel. To the Greeks, laurel was considered a powerful support for divination and prophecy, while to the Romans it symbolized wisdom. In Greek mythology the goddess Daphne transformed herself into a laurel tree to avoid the advances of Apollo. Laurel may have been used by Delphic oracles to strengthen their powers of prophecy. From ancient times through the Middles Ages and Renaissance, it was used medicinally and as a strewing herb.
Oil and Blending Information
The leaves and branchlets are steam-distilled, producing a greenish-yellow oil with a fresh, herbaceous and slightly camphoraceous scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: So Below/Twigs and Leaves
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; may cause sensitization; use in moderation
Magical Uses
Bay aids in prophetic dreaming, divination, and clairvoyance. It increases psychic powers and its purification properties provide protection during this work. It also clears and protects the home from negativity. Use this oil to build magical energy, consecrate sacred space, enhance defensive magic, and remove hexes. Bay supports courage and determination when seeking justice. It improves memory and augments concentration, bringing clarity and inspiring creativity as well as spiritual growth. Bay is also associated with awareness, inspiration, and intuition. It supports longevity in marriage and success when dealing with problems. Also use bay to connect with fairies.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Gemini, Leo, Pisces
Solar System: Sun
Elements: air, fire
Celebrations: Litha, Saturnalia
Goddesses: Artemis, Ceres, Daphne, Fides, Gaia
Gods: Adonis, Apollo, Asclepius, Balder, Buddha, Cernunnos, Helios, Mars, Ra
Benzoin
Botanical Name: Styrax benzoin
Family: Styracaceae
Also Known As: Benjamin tree, gum Benjamin, styrax benzoin
Benzoin has been used medicinally in the Far East for thousands of years. In addition, it was burned as incense in Buddhist and Hindu temples to elevate spiritual awareness and foster receptiveness for divine inspiration. In the Middle Ages it was believed to banish evil spirits and avert demons. Today it is an ingredient in Ayurvedic treatments and in Friar’s Balsam, a warming tincture used to fight colds and the flu. Native to tropical Asia, this shrubby, deciduous tree has clusters of white, bell-shaped flowers and pointed, oval leaves.
Oil and Blending Information
Solvent extraction is used on benzoin gum to produce an orange-brown oil that has a sweet-balsamic, slightly woody, vanilla-like scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle to base
Plant Part: So Below/Resins
Warning: may cause sensitization
Magical Uses
Benzoin is a powerful ally for magic. It can increase the rate of success for spells as well as break hexes. Use it to attract money, comfort, and success as well as for protection. Benzoin is effective for clearing negativity—especially in the home—to make way for prosperity. Powerful purification properties make it good for ritual preparation and altar consecration. It awakens the mind for inspiration and reaching higher levels of consciousness. Use benzoin for focus as well as psychic protection during astral projection and channeling. Benzoin is also associated with the emotions, healing, and the ability to banish anything unwanted. Also use it magically for strength, vitality, and wisdom.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aquarius, Gemini, Leo, Scorpio, Taurus
Solar System: Mars, Mercury, Sun, Venus
Elements: air, water
Bergamot
Botanical Name: Citrus bergamia syn. C. aurantium var. bergamia
Family: Rutaceae
Bergamot is believed to be a hybrid of the lemon (Citrus limon) and bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) trees and has been known to grow in the Mediterranean region since the early 1700s. It has fragrant white flowers, smooth oval leaves, and yellow fruit that resemble oranges. Its name is believed to have come from the city of Bergamo in northern Italy, where distillation of its oil may have originated. Alternatively, the name may have come from the Turkish word beg-armudu, which means “prince’s pear.”21 Bergamot has been used in perfumery since the eighteenth century. One of its culinary uses provides the distinctive flavor of Earl Grey tea.
Oil and Blending Information
The fruit peel is cold-pressed, producing a light greenish-yellow oil with a sweet-fruity, slightly floral scent.
Strength: 2
Scent Group: citrus
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: As Above/Fruit
Warning: causes photosensitivity
Magical Uses
Use bergamot for protection, especially psychic protection when dark powers seem to cast shadows over life. Also use it to overcome or remove hexes. This oil aids in letting go of toxic emotions, restoring peace after a quarrel, and encouraging happiness. It also helps to open awareness for dreamwork. Employ bergamot in spells to aid in legal matters as well as attract luck, money, and prosperity. It is a good oil for divination and spirit communication. Bergamot helps focus energy for manifesting success and wealth. Use it for control and strength when dealing with problems. Bergamot is also associated with confidence, courage, kindness, love, and well-being.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Gemini, Virgo
Solar System: Saturn, Sun
Elements: earth, fire, water
Birch, White
Botanical Name: Betula alba
Family: Betulaceae
Also Known As: European white birch, lady of the woods, paper birch, silver birch
According to one theory, the name birch may have been derived from the Sanskrit bhurga, which means “a tree whose bark is used for writing upon.”22 This slender tree is most noted for its silvery-white bark that peels off in sheets. Birch has pointed, oval leaves and produces both male and female catkins. It was used medicinally throughout Europe for centuries, and in Russia it was a symbol of health, cleansing, and purification. Birch was a traditional wood for bobbins and broom handles, and eventually it became affiliated with Witches. In western England, crosses made of birch twigs were hung over doorways to protect against enchantment. Because of its association with fairies, it was used for decorations on May Day, and in Wales birch tree trunks were often used as Maypoles. It is, of course, an ingredient in birch beer.
Oil and Blending Information
The leaf buds are steam-distilled to produce a pale yellow oil. It has a woody, balsamic scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: base
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves
Warning: may cause skin irritation
Magical Uses
Birch is one of the classic nine woods that were gathered for ritual fires. Use it to clear negativity before ritual and for protection during magic work. It is also useful for purification and attracting abundance. As a symbol of birth and renewal, birch helps us learn from the past when making a fresh start. Employ it for divination, love spells, and to attract fairies. Birch aids in opening the mind and expanding awareness to receive inspiration, blessings, and wisdom. It is also associated with creativity, intuition, and spirits. Use birch to aid in personal growth, healing, and general well-being. When used for focusing energy, birch brings clarity and opens the way for knowledge and finding one’s purpose in life. It is also associated with defense, determination, fertility, security, and stability.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Capricorn, Sagittarius
Solar System: Jupiter, Moon, Sun, Venus
Celebrations: Beltane, Ostara, Yule
Elements: air, water
Goddesses: Arianrhod, Cerridwen, Freya, Frigg, Kupula
Gods: Angus, the Dagda, Lugh, Thor
Cajeput
Botanical Name: Melaleuca cajeputi, syn. M. leucadendron
Family: Myrtaceae
Also Known As: paperbark tree, swamp tea tree, white tea tree, white wood
Reaching a height of 130 feet, this tree has pale green, pointed leaves and spikes of white flower clusters. Cajeput’s distinguishing characteristic is its whitish bark that easily flakes and peels. It grows wild in Southeast Asia, the Philippines, and Australia, where it is indigenous. During the 1600s, the Dutch introduced it into Europe, where it became part of the pharmacist’s arsenal for many centuries.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam distillation of the leaves and twigs produces a pale yellow-green oil. The scent is fresh, camphoraceous, and slightly fruity.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: So Below/Twigs and Leaves
Warning: may cause skin irritation
Magical Uses
Although cajeput is not widely used in magic and ritual, it can provide balance and stability when combined with other oils. Cajeput stimulates the mind and strengthens courage. It aids in creative and sexual expression as well as transformation. This oil helps build or rebuild a solid sense of self for growth and healing. Cajeput is also associated with determination, protection, and security.
Correspondences
Solar System: Saturn
Elements: earth, fire
Camphor
Botanical Name: Cinnamomum camphora
Family: Lauraceae
Also Known As: laurel camphor, true camphor, white camphor
While the ancient Japanese believed that this tree had power over the elements, the Buddhists and Taoists in China planted camphor around their temples for purification. In the thirteenth century, Marco Polo noted that camphor oil was a prized medicinal and embalming ingredient in the East, and by the late seventeenth century it was used medicinally throughout Europe. Native to Japan and Taiwan, camphor is an evergreen with leaves that start out red but turn dark green over time. Its small, white flowers grow in clusters, and its oval-shaped berries are red.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam-distilling the wood and bark of camphor produces three fractions or grades of oil. White is the lightest, brown is the middle, and yellow, which is bluish-green or yellow in color, is the heaviest. The brown and yellow grades are toxic as well as carcinogenic and should be avoided. White camphor is colorless to pale yellow with a sharp and distinctive scent called camphoraceous.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: resinous
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: So Below/Wood and Bark
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; avoid if you have epilepsy or other seizure disorder; not compatible with homeopathic treatment; use in moderation
Magical Uses
Camphor has strong cleansing and banishing properties that are instrumental in clearing away negative energy. It is especially good for clearing the home. Camphor’s power to subdue sexual desire can be useful after ending a relationship as well as when celibacy or chastity are desired. Use it to increase and strengthen psychic power and to enhance divination and dreamwork. It is supportive for moon and element magic. Camphor aids in keeping the mind focused in the present as well as awakening past-life memories. It can bring emotional clarity when growth and/or healing is sought. Camphor is also associated with balance, cycles, protection, purpose, and strength.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Cancer, Pisces
Solar System: Moon
Elements: air, earth, water
Goddess: Kuan Yin
The Cananga Oils
Botanical Family: Annonaceae
Cananga trees are tropical evergreens from Asia with lance-shaped leaves and large flowers that can be mauve, pink, or yellow. While the tree that produces ylang-ylang is a variety of the cananga, its oil is considered superior. That said, cananga is a nice oil in its own right that is often used as a substitute for ylang-ylang because it is less expensive.
Cananga
Botanical Name: Cananga odorata
The species name means “fragrant” or “sweet-smelling.” During the Victorian era (1837–1901), oil from the cananga was used as a hair treatment called Macassar oil.
Oil and Blending Information
The flowers are steam-distilled, producing a greenish-yellow oil. It has a sweet, floral, and slightly woody scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: floral
Perfume Note: middle to base
Plant Part: As Above/Flowers
Warning: possible sensitization
Ylang-Ylang
Botanical Name: Cananga odorata var. genuine
Also known as: the flower of flowers
Ylang-ylang is a flower of traditions. In the South Pacific, ylang-ylang flowers are strung together to make the famous necklaces called leis. In Indonesia, ylang-ylang flowers are sprinkled across the wedding bed to ensure a sweet first night.
Oil and Blending Information
A colorless to pale yellow oil is produced by steam or water distillation of the flowers. It has a slightly spicy, sweet, floral scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: floral
Perfume Note: middle to base
Plant Part: As Above/Flowers
Warning: may cause sensitization
Magical Uses
These oils promote positive energy and help bring peace and beauty to the home. They stimulate intuition and promote creativity. Ideal for divination, they also aid in dreamwork and communication with spirits. These oils provide a great deal of supportive energy during times of transition and exploration of one’s deeper spirituality. They are effective in spells to attract a lover, heighten sensuality, and to attract attention. Use them for fairy magic and to attract fairies. These oils are also associated with balance, determination, fertility, healing, and the home.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Pisces, Taurus
Solar System: Mercury, Moon, Venus
Elements: air, earth, water
Gods: Elegua, Obalata, Oggun
Caraway
Botanical Name: Carum carvi
Family: Apiaceae
Also known as: carium
Native to Europe and western Asia, caraway is an herb with ridged stems, feathery leaves, and umbels of white flowers. Caraway seeds have had culinary and medicinal uses since ancient times. They were popular with the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans and later throughout Europe and the Middle East. According to the Roman naturalist and philosopher Pliny (23–79 CE), the plant was named for the Caria region in Asia Minor.23 In Europe there was a belief that anything containing caraway could not be taken, which resulted in a saying, “Feed your lover caraway and he cannot be stolen from you.”24 Extending that further, people fed their chickens, pigeons, and geese caraway seeds to keep them from wandering off. Caraway was also used as a multifunctional protector against evil spirits.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam distillation of the seeds produces a colorless or pale yellow to yellowish-brown oil. The scent is sweet-spicy and warm.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above and So Below/Seeds
Warning: may cause skin irritation
Magical Uses
Caraway is effective when there is a problem in keeping or retaining things, including magical tools as well as secrets. While caraway is effective in preventing the loss of a lover, it can also help renew a relationship. It is instrumental in stimulating cycles, increasing luck, and maintaining well-being. Use caraway to restore confidence, encourage fidelity, and to initiate changes. It is effective in sex and element magic as well as dreamwork. Caraway is also associated with fertility, luck, memories, the mind, protection, and renewal.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Gemini
Solar System: Mercury
Elements: air, fire
Cardamom
Botanical Name: Elettaria cardamomum
Family: Zingiberaceae
Also Known As: cardamomi, Indian spice plant
Cardamom is one of the oldest-known spices and has been used medicinally for over 3,000 years in China and India. The Egyptians used it for perfumes, while the Greeks favored it for culinary and medicinal purposes. Its species and common names come from the Greek name for the plant.25 Today, it is still extensively used as a spice as well as a flavoring for coffee and liqueurs. Native to tropical Asia, cardamom has lance-like leaves and yellowish-white flowers that are marked with a striking mauve vein pattern. This herb can grow up to 15 feet tall.
Oil and Blending Information
A colorless to pale yellow oil is produced by steam distillation of the seeds. It has a warm, sweet-spicy scent with a woody undertone.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above and So Below/Seeds
Magical Uses
Cardamom uplifts the mind, aiding concentration, creativity, and divination. It is said to be an aphrodisiac that increases sexual appetite and makes a lover more passionate. Cardamom also increases love and strengthens partnerships. Use it to boost sex magic as well as stimulate desires and lust. This oil promotes healing by coming into balance. It boosts confidence and courage through clarity of purpose. Cardamom is also associated with beginnings and cycles.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries, Cancer, Pisces, Taurus
Solar System: Venus
Elements: earth, fire, water
Goddesses: Erzulie, Hecate
Carrot
Botanical Name: Daucus carota
Family: Apiaceae
Also Known As: bee’s nest, bird’s nest, Queen Anne’s lace, wild carrot
The common names of bee’s nest and bird’s nest come from the tendency of the flower head to curve upward, forming a basket. Native to Europe, Asia, and northern Africa, wild carrot has a three-foot-tall, erect stem, feathery leaves, and flat, green seeds. Although its fleshy, orange root is much smaller than today’s cultivated carrot, it was a common food for ancient Greeks and Romans. When the plant was introduced into Britain in the sixteenth century, the flowers and leaves became popular hair accessories. The large flower head actually consists of numerous tiny, white flowers with a red or purple one at the center. According to legend, the center flower symbolized a drop of blood from Queen Anne (1665–1714), who pricked her finger while making lace.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam-distilling the seeds produces a yellow or amber-colored oil with a herbaceous, woody-earthy, and slightly spicy scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above and So Below/Seeds
Magical Uses
This humble plant is associated with sex—ranging from male fertility to conception to heightening lust. Use this oil for sex magic as well as element magic. Carrot is also instrumental for purifying ritual space and clearing negativity in general. Employ it to initiate change and bring renewal. Carrot is also associated with balance, beginnings, cycles, and healing.
Correspondences
Solar System: Mars, Mercury
Elements: earth, fire
Cassia: See the Cinnamon Oils
Catnip
Botanical Name: Nepeta cataria
Family: Lamiaceae
Also Known As: catmint, catnep, cat’s fancy, cat’s play, cat’s wort, field balm
A popular culinary and medicinal herb indigenous to Europe, catnip’s genus name comes from the town of Nepete in Italy, where it was used for cooking.26 In pre-Elizabethan England, catnip was popular as an afternoon tea—more for economic reasons than taste. Herbalist Culpeper recommended mixing it with wine as a remedy for some ailments. Catnip is a perennial herb with heart-shaped, grayish-green leaves. Growing in dense whorls, its white flowers are marked with purple spots.
Oil and Blending Information
The flower tops are steam-distilled to produce a pale yellow to orange oil. It has a herbaceous scent with a subdued hint of mint.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: As Above/Flowers
Magical Uses
Use catnip for animal and element magic and to attract benevolent spirits. It is effective for increasing psychic abilities and for bonding psychically with a cat. Catnip also aids in dream and psychic work. Use it to attract love and friendship as well as good luck to the home. It is also helpful to invite beauty, happiness, and peace into your life. Catnip enhances courage when called on to provide protection. This oil can aid in healing or dealing with problems of fertility and sexuality. It boosts energy and increases vitality. Catnip is also associated with awareness, memories, and strength.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Cancer, Libra, Pisces
Solar System: Venus
Elements: air, water
Celebration: Samhain
Goddesses: Bast, Sekhmet
The Cedarwood Oils
Cedars have been called the tree of life (Arbor Vitae), not only because of their majestic stature but also because they provided many essentials of daily life. Technically, Virginia cedarwood is a juniper; however, because of its scent, it is called a cedar.
Cedarwood, Atlas
Botanical Name: Cedrus Atlantica
Family: Pinaceae
Also Known As: African cedar, Atlantic cedar, Moroccan cedarwood
Native to the Atlas Mountains of Algeria and Morocco, Atlas cedar reaches almost 100 feet in height and has an elegant pyramid shape. Its genus name Cedrus comes from the Arabic word kedron, meaning “power.”27 Egyptians used cedar in perfumes, cosmetics, and ritual incense. Associated with cedar, Cedreatis was an epithet of Artemis, whose image stood in a large cedar tree outside the town of Orchomenus in the Arcadia region of Greece.
Oil and Blending Information
The wood is steam-distilled, producing an oil that is deep amber, yellow, or orange in color. It has a warm, woody, and slightly spicy scent.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: middle to base
Plant Part: So Below/Wood and Bark
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; may cause skin irritation
Cedarwood, Virginia
Botanical Name: Juniperus virginiana
Family: Cupressaceae
Also Known As: red cedar, eastern red cedar
Indigenous to North America, this majestic coniferous tree also grows to about 100 feet tall and can have a trunk diameter over five feet. It has a pyramid-shaped crown and produces small, brown cones.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam-distilling the wood produces a pale yellow or orange oil that is often called American red cedarwood oil. It has a clean, sweet-balsamic, woody scent.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: middle to base
Plant Part: So Below/Wood and Bark
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; may cause skin irritation; use in moderation
Magical Uses
Cedarwood stimulates dreamwork and strengthens psychic abilities with focus and clarity. It supports element magic, clairvoyance, and all forms of divination while offering psychic protection. Associated with sacred groves and spirituality, cedarwood aids in communicating with spirits. Its purification properties are excellent for consecrating amulets and cleansing magic tools. These properties also serve to banish hexes and ward off the intentions of negative people. Use these oils in spells to attract love or to keep a lover faithful, as well as to attract luck, money, and wealth. Cedarwood is effective when dealing with death for providing comfort and peace as well as finding emotional release. These oils foster security and stability by increasing confidence, determination, and courage. Use them for inspiration when seeking peace of mind. Supporting growth and renewal, cedarwood boosts healing, vitality, and longevity. Cedarwood is also associated with fertility, friendship, justice, and success.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries, Sagittarius, Taurus
Solar System: Jupiter, Mercury, Sun
Elements: air, earth, fire, water
Celebrations: Beltane, Imbolc, Mabon, Yule
Goddesses: Arianrhod, Artemis, Astarte, Brigid, Persephone
Gods: Aegir, Baal, Ea, Odin, Osiris, Ra
Celery
Botanical Name: Apium graveolens
Family: Apiaceae
Also Known As: marsh parsley, smallage, wild celery
Native to Britain and Europe, this familiar vegetable has long, grooved stalks, deeply lobed leaves, and umbels of white flowers. Celery’s genus name is believed to have come from an early Indo-European word for “water,” which seems appropriate as the plant is most often found in wet soils. Herbalist Nicholas Culpeper noted that it was used medicinally for a range of complaints.
Oil and Blending Information
A pale yellow to orange-colored oil is produced by steam distillation of the seeds. It has a sweet and spicy-warm scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: As Above and So Below/Seeds
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; may cause sensitization
Magical Uses
This oil is very grounding, which is an asset for bringing mental clarity for psychic work, astral travel, and prophetic dreaming. Celery also helps to increase and hone divination skills as well as stimulate creativity. Use it in sex magic to increase passion and fidelity. This oil aids in self-work for healing, renewal, and coming into balance with the world around you. It can help spark inspiration for initiating changes and establishing new beginnings. Celery is also associated with cycles, protection, and breaking hexes.
Correspondences
Solar System: Mercury, Moon
Elements: air, earth, fire, water
The Chamomile Oils
Botanical Family: Asteraceae
The name chamomile comes from the Greek chamailmelon, meaning “earth apple,” which describes the scent of Roman chamomile. German and Roman chamomile have been popular in European medicine since antiquity and have been used interchangeably. Both plants have small, daisy-like flowers and feathery leaves.
German Chamomile
Botanical Name: Matricaria recutica, syn. M. chamomilla
Also Known As: blue chamomile, Hungarian chamomile, wild chamomile
German chamomile is an erect herb with a branching stem that can grow up to 24 inches tall. It it indigenous to Europe and northwest Asia. During the Middle Ages, Europeans used it as a strewing herb on floors to combat pests and odor.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam distillation of the flower heads produces an inky-blue essential oil. It has a warm, herbaceous, sweet scent.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: floral
Perfume Note: middle to base
Plant Part: As Above/Flowers
Warning: may cause skin irritation
Roman Chamomile
Botanical Name: Chamaemelum nobilis syn. Anthemis nobilis
Also Known As: English chamomile, sweet chamomile, true chamomile
Roman chamomile is a small (10 inches high), spreading herb that has been used medicinally for over 2,000 years. It is native to southern and western Europe. The word Roman was attached to its name by German physician and botanist Joachim Camerarius (1534–1598), who found it growing just outside the city of Rome.28 The Anglo-Saxons called it amythen and considered it one of the nine sacred herbs of Woden.
Oil and Blending Information
The flower heads are steam-distilled, producing a pale blue oil that turns yellow with age. It has a herbaceous, sweet, apple-like scent.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: floral
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Flowers
Warning: may cause skin irritation
Magical Uses
Well known for physical and emotional healing, chamomile brings clarity and success in communication. It aids in dreamwork and divination, and grounds energy for psychic work—especially Roman chamomile for channeling. Chamomile supports determination when dealing with problems and provides protection against hexes. Use these oils in spells to attract beauty, love, luck, money, and prosperity. Additionally, chamomile can be instrumental when seeking peace, justice, and personal growth. Chamomile also stimulates creativity, intuition, and spiritual vibrations, and helps manifest desires. Use chamomile to purify and consecrate altars as well as ritual and magic tools. Chamomile is also associated with abundance, control, fertility, and sexuality.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Cancer, Leo
Solar System: Sun
Elements: air, water
Celebrations: Litha, Walpurgis, Yule
Gods: Balder, Cernunnos
The Cinnamon Oils
Botanical Family: Lauraceae
Technically, camphor could be listed here with cinnamon and cassia because it shares the same genus, but I chose to include here only those that share the familiar cinnamon scent.
Cassia
Botanical Name: Cinnamomum cassia
Also Known As: bastard cinnamon, Chinese cinnamon, false cinnamon
There is a Chinese myth about a gigantic cassia tree, and anyone who ate of it became immortal. Greeks and Romans used cassia as a ritual offering in the belief that it pleased the gods. It has been used in cooking throughout Europe since the Middle Ages, especially for spicing wine. Native to parts of southeast China, cassia is a slender evergreen tree with small, white flowers and leathery leaves. In addition to producing more oil, cassia bark is darker and coarser than cinnamon and its aroma is stronger.
Oil and Blending Information
Two oils are produced from cassia trees.
The oil steam-distilled from the leaves is brownish-yellow with a sweet, woody-spicy scent reminiscent of true cinnamon.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; hazardous if used on the skin
Oil from the bark is water distilled. It is dark brown and has a spicy-warm, resinous scent also reminiscent of true cinnamon.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: So Below/Wood and Bark
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; hazardous if used on the skin
Cinnamon
Botanical Name: Cinnamomum zeylanicum
Also Known As: Ceylon cinnamon, Madagascar cinnamon, true cinnamon
Cinnamon is an evergreen tree with reddish-brown bark, leathery leaves, and yellow-white flowers. Its botanical name means that it came from Ceylon, the former name of Sri Lanka.29 One of the world’s most important spices, cinnamon has been used for culinary and medicinal purposes in China and India for over 4,000 years. It was a popular trade commodity among the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans.
Oil and Blending Information
Two oils are produced using steam or water distillation.
Oil from the leaves is yellow to brownish in color and has a warm, spicy scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy, may cause skin irritation; use in moderation
Oil from the inner bark is pale to dark yellow with a warm, spicy, and slightly woody scent.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: So Below/Wood and Bark
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; hazardous if used on the skin
Magical Uses
Use cinnamon or cassia oil to spark awareness, stimulate psychic abilities, and support astral travel. These oils aid in divination and dreamwork, and are effective in defensive and sex magic. Also use them to increase the power and success of spells, and to support clairvoyance. They are effective for consecrating amulets and magic tools as well as raising energy for ritual. These oils promote balance (bark oil), concentration, inspiration, and creativity. Dispelling negative energy, they promote higher vibrational energy (leaf oil) for spiritual purification and growth (leaf oil). Additionally, use these oils in spells to attract and strengthen love as well as to support protection (bark oil) and enhance overall security. They also increase passion, lust, and desires. Cinnamon and cassia are effective for bolstering healing, longevity, and renewal. Use these oils to strengthen your sense of purpose (leaf oil) when confronting problems as well as increasing luck, money, and prosperity in your life. The cinnamon oils are also associated with defense, justice, and knowledge.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries, Capricorn, Leo
Solar System: Jupiter, Mercury, Sun
Element: fire
Goddesses: Aphrodite, Venus
Gods: Asclepeus, Dionysus, Helios, Ra
Citronella
Botanical Name: Cymbopogon nardus
Family: Poaceae
Also Known As: lenabatu, mana grass, nard grass, Sri Lanka citronella
Anyone who enjoys backyard cookouts is familiar with anti-mosquito citronella candles. The plant was introduced into Europe during the 1800s for use as a room disinfectant and insect repellent to thwart moths in linen cupboards. Cats and rodents are not fond of it, either. Indigenous to Sri Lanka, India, and Java, citronella is a tall perennial grass with cane-like stems and gray-green leaves. For centuries citronella oil was a component in Chinese medicine, but found a more popular use in the West to scent inexpensive household soaps.
Oil and Blending Information
The leaves are steam-distilled to produce a yellow-brown oil with a fresh, lemony-sweet, and herbaceous scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; may cause skin irritation
Magical Uses
One of citronella’s strongest properties is purification, and it is especially powerful for protecting and purifying the aura for psychic work. It clears negativity and averts negative forces, including overcoming hexes by returning the energy to its source. Citronella is instrumental in attracting friends, love, and prosperity. Use it to boost defensive and element magic as well as to ground and center energy before and after magic work. This oil also helps to focus the mind for communication and creativity. Citronella is also associated with growth, knowledge, purpose, strength, and vitality.
Correspondences
Solar System: Sun, Venus
Elements: air, fire
Clary Sage: See the Sage Oils
Clove
Botanical Name: Syzygium aromaticum syn. Eugenia caryophyllata
Family: Myrtaceae
The familiar clove is actually a dried, unopened flower bud. On the tree, the buds grow in clusters along with large, bright-green leaves. Believed to have originated in Indonesia, this pyramid-shaped evergreen has a species name that means “aromatic” or “fragrant.” It was a custom on the Maluku Islands, part of Indonesia, to plant a clove tree when a child was born so he or she would have an indication of their age. In addition to being one of the earliest spices used in trade, it was also an all-purpose medicine. Today cloves are used for medicinal and culinary purposes worldwide.
Oil and Blending Information
Two essential oils are obtained from this tree.
The flower buds are water or steam-distilled, producing a pale yellow oil. It has a sweet-spicy scent with a fruity hint.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Flowers
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; may cause skin irritation; use in moderation
The leaves are steam-distilled, producing a dark brown oil with a burnt-woody scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; may cause skin irritation; use in moderation
Magical Uses
Clove is exceptional at banishing negative energy and entities, making it a good amulet against harm. Use it to release hexes as well as to increase the success of your spells. This oil provides protection during energy work (leaf oil), divination, and clairvoyance sessions. In addition, it stimulates the mind, promotes psychic awareness, and increases magical powers. Use clove oil in spells to attract money, love, prosperity, and luck. Clove supports emotional and sexual (bud oil) healing and encourages personal growth (leaf oil). Use it to bind and strengthen relationships, especially friendships in which there have been problems. Because clove improves memory, use it to access ancient knowledge as well as when seeking truth and purpose (leaf oil). It can also help bring beauty (bud oil), comfort, happiness, and longevity to your life. Clove increases creativity as well as spiritual vibrations, making it useful for purifying sacred space. Clove is also associated with beginnings (bud oil), courage, determination, fertility (bud oil), inspiration, lust, and wealth.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries, Leo, Pisces, Sagittarius, Scorpio
Solar System: Jupiter, Mars, Mercury, Sun
Elements: air, earth, fire
Coriander
Botanical Name: Coriandrum sativum
Family: Apiaceae
Also Known As: Chinese parsley, cilantro
Coriander has been cultivated for over 3,000 years and is one of the oldest known flavorings. This annual herb has delicate leaves and umbels of white flowers. Coriander is native to southern Europe and western Asia and can grow almost three feet tall. The Chinese associated this spice with immortality, and in India it is still used as an offering to deities. In ancient Egypt, it was called the spice of happiness and used as an aphrodisiac as well as a funerary offering.30 The Greeks and the Romans used it medicinally and as a flavoring for wine. For centuries European monks carried on the custom of flavoring wine and tonics with it. Coriander is still widely used as a culinary and medicinal herb.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam-distilling the seeds produces a colorless to pale yellow oil with a sweet, spicy-woody scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above and So Below/Seeds
Warning: use in moderation
Magical Uses
Coriander is an aid for clairvoyance, divination, and accessing memories. Use it to find a lover, excite passion, and keep him or her faithful. This oil is effective for element and sex magic as well as to consecrate charms and amulets. Its powers of protection work against negative influences, especially for the home, bringing peace and security. Coriander is instrumental for healing and well-being on many levels, especially emotional balance. It also supports fertility and longevity. Additionally, coriander is associated with beginnings, changes, cycles, renewal, and secrets.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries
Solar System: Mars, Venus
Element: fire
Cumin
Botanical Name: Cuminum cyminum
Family: Apiaceae
Also Known As: cummin, Roman caraway
Indigenous to Upper Egypt, cumin was used for culinary and medicinal purposes by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Hebrews. The Romans used it for flavoring and as a preservative. During the Middle Ages in Italy it was a symbol of love, while in Germany cumin was baked into bread to keep a lover who ate it faithful. At that time it was one of the most common spices in Europe. Cumin is a small, delicate herb with feathery leaves, pink or white flowers, and ridged, oblong seeds. Its name comes from the Sanskrit sughandan, meaning “good smelling.”31
Oil and Blending Information
A pale yellow or greenish oil is produced by steam distillation of the seeds. It has a warm, spicy, and slightly earthy scent.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above and So Below/Seeds
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; causes photosensitivity
Magical Uses
This oil is helpful for releasing negative emotions as well as negativity in the environment, and it is instrumental in restoring domestic peace. Use it for protection and to attract prosperity. Additionally, it aids in finding love, keeping a lover faithful, and sparking lust. Cumin helps bring balance between the spiritual and the mundane, and is useful for purification. Use it to increase the effectiveness of spells as well as to instigate change. Cumin is also associated with beginnings, cycles, longevity, and renewal.
Magical Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries, Scorpio
Solar System: Mars, Venus
Element: fire
Cypress
Botanical Name: Cupressus sempervirens
Family: Cupressaceae
Also Known As: French cypress, Italian cypress, Mediterranean cypress
Cypress is a conical-shaped, evergreen tree with brownish-gray cones and slender branches. Its species name means “ever-living,” reflecting its symbolism of life after death.32 Originating in the eastern Mediterranean region, this tree was highly valued for medicinal and religious purposes since ancient times. In Egypt it was dedicated to Osiris, the god of the dead, and in Greece it was dedicated to Pluto, the god of the Underworld. In Greek legend, Cyparissus was transformed into a tree because of his overwhelming sorrow at killing one of Apollo’s stags. Accordingly, cypress became a symbol of solace. The Tibetans burned cypress for purification, while the Phoenicians used the wood for shipbuilding.
Oil and Blending Information
The needles and twigs are steam-distilled, producing an oil that is pale yellow to greenish-
olive in color. It has a woody and slightly nutty-spicy scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: middle to base
Plant Part: So Below/Twigs and Leaves
Magical Uses
This oil is a powerful ally when dealing with death and loss, especially to provide comfort and healing. Use it at Samhain to remember and honor ancestors. Cypress is effective for centering and grounding energy before and after ritual. Use it to consecrate and bless ritual objects as well as for defensive magic. Cypress is supportive of spells that banish, bind, or provide protection. This oil aids in self-work when seeking truth, peace, and knowledge as well as growth and renewal. Additionally, it is instrumental developing awareness, focus, and clarity in divination and channeling. Use cypress for strength and wisdom when seeking justice. It is also associated with balance, changes, happiness, release, and transformation.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aquarius, Capricorn, Pisces, Taurus, Virgo
Solar System: Pluto, Saturn
Elements: earth, water
Celebration: Samhain
Gods: Apollo, Cupid, Hades, Jupiter, Pluto, Saturn
Goddesses: Aphrodite, Artemis, Astarte, Diana, Hecate
Dill
Botanical Name: Anethum graveolens
Family: Apiaceae
Also Known As: dill weed, dillseed, dilly, garden dill
This plant’s common name comes from the Norse dylla, meaning “to soothe,” and its species name means “strong-scented.”33 Native to southern Europe, dill can reach about three feet in height, has feathery leaves, umbels of yellowish flowers, and small, flat seeds. In addition to being associated with the cult of Dionysus, this plant was used as offerings to Adonis and Bacchus. Later during the Middle Ages, dill was a popular ingredient in love potions and commonly used to provide protection from Witches and evil spirits.
Oil and Blending Information
Two oils are produced by steam or water distillation.
The oil from the seeds is colorless to pale yellow with a fresh, warm-spicy scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above and So Below/Seeds
The oil from the leaves is also colorless to pale yellow but with a sweet-spicy scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves
Magical Uses
With a history of use in love potions, dill also helps to overcome love hexes. It is helpful for finding balance (seed oil) where lust and desire are concerned. Use dill in defensive magic and to avert black magic from the home. It can also help attract luck and wealth. This oil protects against evil deeds and spirits, and functions well for general protection as well as purification. Employ it for success in court and any time defense is needed. Dill can help attract money, prosperity, and security. Use it to boost creativity (seed oil) and support divination. Dill is particularly effective in strengthening the mind for acquiring knowledge and wisdom as well as solving problems and determining one’s purpose (leaf oil). Dill seed oil is also associated with beginnings, changes, and renewal; the leaf oil is associated with energy and growth. Both types of dill oil are associated with cycles.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Cancer, Gemini, Leo, Scorpio, Virgo
Solar System: Mercury
Elements: air, fire
Celebration: Walpurgis
Gods: Adonis, Bacchus, Dionysus
Goddess: Kupala
Elemi
Botanical Name: Canarium luzonicum
Family: Burseraceae
Reaching about 100 feet in height, this cousin to frankincense and myrrh has dark, oblong leaves and yellowish-white flowers. While elemi is indigenous to the Philippines and parts of Indonesia, it was known throughout the ancient world. Its common name comes from an Arabic word meaning “above and below.”34 Elemi was mentioned as a spice for embalming in the Egyptian papyrus of Ebers (circa 1550 BCE); and in ancient Rome, gladiators rubbed it on their bodies for protection before entering the ring. Since the Middle Ages, elemi has been used medicinally and as incense to enhance meditation.
Oil and Blending Information
A colorless to very pale yellow oil is produced through steam distillation of the gum. It has a spicy, lemon-like, and slightly camphoraceous scent.
Strength: 2
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: So Below/Resins
Magical Uses
Elemi is especially effective for promoting clarity and focus. Use it to balance the spiritual and mundane, and for grounding energy after ritual. It can be instrumental in spiritual development, opening oneself to mystical experiences, and enhancing psychic abilities. Elemi aids in healing and overall vitality. It is also associated with control and purpose.
Correspondences
Solar System: Mercury, Uranus
The Eucalyptus Oils
Family: Myrtaceae
The genus and common name of these trees comes from the Greek eukalypto, meaning “covered” or “wrapped,” which describes how the hanging seedpods almost cover young flower buds. Indigenous to Australia, eucalyptus is the most widely known treatment for the common cold.
Eucalyptus, Blue Gum
Botanical Name: Eucalyptus globules
Also Known As: fever tree, gum tree, southern blue gum
Absorbing great amounts of water, the extensive root systems of these trees were employed to rid areas of mosquito-infested wetlands in Australia. Its camphoraceous scent also aided the effort by functioning as an insect repellent. This huge eucalyptus species (about 300 feet tall) has narrow yellowish-green leaves, creamy white flowers, and pale gray bark.
Oil and Blending Information
The leaves are steam-distilled to produce a colorless oil that yellows with age. Its camphoraceous scent has a woody-sweet undertone.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves
Warnings: orally toxic; may cause skin irritation; not compatible with homeopathic treatment; use in moderation
Eucalyptus, Lemon
Botanical Name: Eucalyptus citriodora
Also Known As: boabo, lemon-scented gum, scented gum tree
This eucalyptus species only reaches about 100 feet tall, has narrow tapering leaves, and whitish-yellow bark. With a species name meaning “lemon-scented,” the oil of this tree has been widely used to perfume linen closets as well as protect the contents against insects.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam-distilling the leaves and twigs produces a colorless or pale yellow oil with a lemony, citronella-like scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: citrus
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: So Below/Twigs and Leaves
Warnings: orally toxic; may cause skin irritation; not compatible with homeopathic treatment; use in moderation
Magical Uses
Eucalyptus is best known for its powers of purification. This applies to clearing negativity in general as well as healing emotions after a quarrel. It is also effective in releasing sorrow (blue gum), finding balance (lemon), and developing a sense of well-being. Apply this oil on an amulet to protect against emotional upsets during past-life work. Eucalyptus supports dream and psychic work as well as communication with spirits. It is instrumental for protection and for banishing anything unwanted from your life. When seeking one’s purpose in life (blue gum), eucalyptus provides strength and determination. Eucalyptus is also associated with energy, growth (lemon), and security.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Cancer, Pisces
Solar System: Mercury, Moon, Saturn, Sun
Elements: air, earth, water
The Fennel Oils
Botanical Family: Apiaceae
Native to the Mediterranean region, fennel is an herb with a bulbous base, feathery leaves, and umbels of yellow flowers. Reaching five or six feet in height, bitter fennel tends to be slightly taller than the sweet. The name fennel comes from the Roman word for “fragrant hay,” foeniculum.35 In the Middle Ages the name evolved into fanculum, and then the plant became known popularly as fenkel.36 The ancient Romans believed it promoted longevity, courage, and strength. In Greek myth, Prometheus passed fire to humans using a stalk of fennel, and it came to symbolize the knowledge of the gods. During lusty celebrations in honor of Dionysus, participants wore crowns of woven stalks and leaves. Fennel was widely used during the Middle Ages for culinary purposes as well as a magical herb to hang over doorways to ward off evil spirits. It was one of the Anglo-Saxons’ nine sacred healing herbs.
Fennel, Bitter
Botanical Name: Foeniculum vulgare
Also Known As: common fennel
Oil and Blending Information
The entire plant is steam-distilled, producing a yellow to pale orange-brown oil with a camphoraceous, anise-like scent.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: N/A
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; avoid use if you have epilepsy or other seizure disorder; hazardous if used on the skin
Fennel, Sweet
Botanical Name: Foeniculum vulgare var. dulce
Also Known As: Florence, French fennel, garden fennel, Roman fennel
Oil and Blending Information
Steam distillation of the seeds produces a colorless to pale yellow oil with a spicy-sweet, anise-like scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: As Above and So Below/Seeds
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; avoid use if you have epilepsy or other seizure disorder; may cause sensitization; use in moderation
Magical Uses
Fennel provides protection and boosts energy for psychic work. It also protects the home from unwelcome spirits, providing strength and security. Fennel enlivens the mind, encouraging creativity (sweet) and straightforward communication. Use these oils for blessings, purification, and support for divination. Additionally, fennel provides balance (sweet) and courage during times of loss and stimulates positive change (sweet). Fennel can aid in healing, longevity, and fertility matters. It is also associated with beginnings (sweet), cycles, knowledge, money, and renewal (sweet).
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries, Gemini Virgo
Solar System: Mercury, Venus
Elements: air, fire
Celebration: Walpurgis
Goddess: Kupala
Gods: Adonis, Dionysus, Hephaestus, Prometheus
The Fir Oils
Family: Pinaceae
While there is often confusion about the difference between fir and pine trees, there are two simple ways to distinguish one from the other by looking at their needles and cones. Fir needles are attached to branches individually, whereas pine needles grow in clusters of two or more. Fir cones are somewhat egg-shaped and sit upright, while pine cones hang, pointing downward.
Fir, Balsam
Botanical Name: Abies balsamea
Also Known As: American silver fir, balm of Gilead fir, balsam tree, fir pine
Reaching about 180 feet tall, balsam fir has dark green needles and purplish-brown cones. Native to northeastern North America, this is one of the few conifers that produces balsam. The word balsam evolved from the Hebrew, meaning “aromatic tree resins used for balms.”37 It was a medicine chest all its own for Native Americans, who used almost every part of the tree for everyday objects as well as ritual items.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam distillation is used to create two oils.
The oil from the needles is colorless and has a sweet, soft balsamic, pine-like scent. It is often called fir needle oil.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves
The oil from the oleoresin is pale yellow or green with a fresh, sweet-balsamic scent.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: So Below/Resins
Fir, Silver
Botanical Name: Abies alba
Also Known As: European silver fir, white fir, white spruce
Silver fir is an evergreen with silvery or whitish-gray needles, and it grows to about 100 feet tall. Native to mountainous regions of central and southern Europe, it was highly prized as a fragrance as well as for medicine. The fir tree has been a symbol of rebirth and immortality for centuries, and in Romania boughs of fir were carried at the front of funeral processions. German Pagans took boughs into their homes to celebrate Yule and to provide comfort for visiting elves.
Oil and Blending Information
Two oils are produced by steam distillation.
Oil from the needles and young twigs is colorless or pale yellow with an earthy, woody, sweet-balsamic scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: So Below/Twigs and Leaves
The oil from the cones is similar but with a slight hint of orange in its scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above and So Below/Seeds
Magical Uses
Fir is a tree of beginnings, energy, growth, and healing (balsam, resin oil). Focusing fir’s energy inward helps to clear the mind and restore memories. It also encourages communication and creative expression. Use it for purification before ritual and in preparation to receive inspiration as well as grounding energy afterwards. As an all-purpose purifier, fir provides protection and helps to overcome and remove hexes. Fir heightens awareness for divination and spiritual work, and is especially effective for connecting with forest spirits. Its link with the Otherworld and death smooths the cycle (silver) from life through death to renewal, while comforting the emotions of those left behind in this world. Use fir for money and prosperity spells, and to support channeling. Fir can provide control (balsam) and strength (silver) for defense as well as fostering stability and security. These oils also enhance vitality (balsam), bringing longevity and overall balance (silver). As an instrument of change (silver), fir aids in establishing hope, happiness, and peace. Fir is also associated with purpose (balsam, needle oil) and transformation.
Correspondences
Solar System: Jupiter, Mars, Saturn, Uranus
Zodiac: Aries
Elements: air, earth, fire
Celebrations: Beltane, Yule
Goddesses: Artemis, Athena, Cerridwyn, Cybele, Diana, Frigg, Hecate, Iduna, Inanna, Isis, Persephone, Rhea
Gods: Adonis, Attis, Bacchus, Dionysus, Osiris, Pan
Frankincense
Botanical Name: Boswellia carteri
Family: Burseracea
Also Known As: olibanum
While olibanum was the name used by ancient Romans, the name frankincense dates to tenth-century French, meaning “high-quality incense.” Commonly burned in temples, frankincense was believed to deepen the spiritual experience and open the way to enlightenment. Egyptians offered it to the gods while the Romans used it for both religious and secular ceremonies. Since ancient times it has been used in medicines and cosmetics. Originating in the Red Sea region, this small, shrubby tree has dense foliage and white or pale pink flowers.
Oil and Blending Information
The oleoresin is steam-distilled, producing a pale yellow or greenish oil with a rich resinous, woody scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: resinous
Perfume Note: base
Plant Part: So Below/Resins
Magical Uses
Frankincense has a long tradition and connection with spirituality, inspiration, knowledge, and strength. This oil is instrumental for astral, dream, and psychic work as well as divination and reaching higher levels of awareness. It helps to focus energy and enhance concentration for magic work. Use frankincense to create sacred space and to consecrate altar goods before ritual. As an aid for past-life work, it can break unwanted connections with the past that inhibit personal growth. It is instrumental for clairvoyance as well as communication with spirits. It is also effective for banishing negativity, providing psychic protection and power for any form of defense. Frankincense promotes healing that supports vitality and longevity. When seeking justice, this oil brings clarity, courage, release, and success. Use for attracting love and happiness into your life. Additionally, frankincense is associated with balance, comfort, control, renewal, and transformation.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aquarius, Aries, Leo, Sagittarius
Solar System: Moon, Sun
Elements: air, fire, water
Celebration: Yule
Gods: Baal, Helios, Ra
Galangal
Botanical Name: Alpinia officinarum
Family: Zingiberaceae
Also Known As: Chinese ginger, Indian root, lesser galangal, Low John the Conqueror
Known as the mild brother of ginger, galangal is a reed-like plant with white, red-lipped flowers. This native of southeastern China can reach three feet in height. The name galangal comes from the Arabic khalanjan, meaning “mild ginger.”38 Although it is called the lesser galangal, because it is smaller in size than Alpina galanga (the greater), it is considered more important because of its medicinal applications. In India it has been used for over a thousand years in curries and perfumes as well as in Ayurvedic medicine. Galangal was introduced into Europe in the ninth century by Arabian physicians. Christian mystic Hildegard of Bingen (1098–1179) called it the spice of life, and by the Middle Ages it was well known in England as galangale.
Oil and Blending Information
The rhizomes are steam-distilled into a greenish-yellow oil with a spicy, camphoraceous scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: So Below/Roots
Magical Uses
Galangal is a great ally for psychic and astral work. This oil aids in increasing the power and success of spells, especially those for banishing, and provides protection from hexes. It is also instrumental for protection during magic and healing work as well as consecrating tools and grounding energy after ritual. Use it in spells to attract money and wealth, to overcome injustices, and turn wishes into reality. Galangal’s ability to stimulate can be used for luck, love, lust, or passion. It is especially helpful in returning negativity or enchantments back to those who initiate them. Associated with the Otherworld, galangal heightens awareness, which can provide courage and comfort when letting go of loved ones. Galangal is also associated with longevity, secrets, stability, strength, and well-being.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries, Scorpio
Solar System: Mars, Sun
Elements: earth, fire
Celebration: Litha
Goddess: Kupala
Galbanum
Botanical Name: Ferula gummosa
Family: Apiaceae
Also Known As: bubonion, galbanu gum
Galbanum was used throughout the ancient world as incense in holy places. Later during the Middle Ages it was part of the incense mixtures used in the Hermetic tradition. To the people of the Middle East and Egypt, it was known as Mother Resin and used to ease childbirth.39 Additionally, the Egyptians used it in cosmetics as well as the embalming process. Indigenous to the Middle East and western Asia, galbanum is a large herb with shiny leaflets and small, white flowers. Its genus name means “hollow stem.”40
Oil and Blending Information
A colorless, pale yellow, or olive-colored oil is produced by water or steam distillation of the oleoresin. Its resinous scent is slightly herbaceous with a woody undertone.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: resinous
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: So Below/Resins
Magical Uses
Use this oil to purify and create sacred space for ritual and meditation. Galbanum supports spirituality, divination, and psychic work, especially channeling. Its association with death and the Underworld makes it an appropriate oil for connecting with ancestors or others who have passed beyond the veil. Use galbanum for anointing and blessing, and whenever healing is sought. It is also associated with control, cycles, renewal, and vitality.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aquarius, Libra, Scorpio
Solar System: Venus
Elements: air, water
Celebration: Samhain
Geranium, Rose
Botanical Name: Pelargonium graveolens, syn. P. roseum
Family: Geraniaceae
Also Known As: storkbill
Rose geranium is not the familiar garden plant, and in fact there are more than 700 varieties of geraniums, but only a few produce essential oil. With lobed leaves and small, pink flowers, this native of South Africa can grow up to three feet high. Its genus name comes from the Greek pelargos, meaning “stork,” referring to the long seed pods that resemble a stork’s bill. The species name means “heavily scented.”41 The word rose was added to its common name when perfumers discovered that it smelled so much like the real thing that they substituted this less expensive ingredient in their products. In seventeenth-century Europe, it was believed that geraniums in the garden protected the home from evil spirits.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam distillation of the entire plant produces a greenish olive-colored oil with a rosy, sweet, and somewhat minty scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: floral
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: N/A
Warning: may cause sensitization
Magical Uses
Rose geranium is about the self, growth, creativity, and gaining control of life. It enhances focus for astral work and increases psychic energy. Use it for purifying and consecrating ritual and magic tools as well as for elf magic. Geranium provides protection, strength, and success for spellwork. In addition, geranium aids in breaking hexes and attracting luck. It is also instrumental when seeking peace, happiness, and security. The rosy aspect of this oil enhances beauty, and the ability to attract love and friendship. Geranium is an aid to healing in the areas of sexuality and fertility as well as the emotions when recovering from sorrow. Additionally, it is associated with communication, confidence, courage, and spirituality.
Correspondences
Solar System: Mars, Venus
Zodiac: Aries, Cancer
Element: water
Celebration: Walpurgis
Ginger
Botanical Name: Zingiber officinale
Family: Zingiberaceae
Also Known As: common ginger, Jamaica ginger
Ginger’s genus name comes from the Sanskrit, meaning “horn-shaped,” which refers to the shape of its root.42 This large perennial plant has reed-like stalks, spear-shaped leaves, and spikes of yellow or white flowers. Originating in southern Asia, ginger is one of the oldest known spices and is used worldwide for culinary and medicinal purposes. Early European settlers in the United States used it to make what they called small beers, which resulted in ginger beer and ginger ale.43 Baked into desserts, gingerbread became an artistic medium in its own right.
Oil and Blending Information
A pale yellow, amber, or greenish-colored oil is produced by steam distillation of the roots. Its scent is spicy, woody, and rich.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: So Below/Roots
Warnings: may cause skin irritation; causes photosensitivity; may cause sensitization
Magical Uses
Ginger is instrumental for astral work, as it helps align the subtle bodies as well as keep the physical body grounded. It is a purifier on many levels but especially for personal energy and emotional cleansing. Use it to purify magical tools, for success in magic work (especially moon or sex magic), and for connecting with the Otherworld. It aids in releasing hexes as well as increasing magical power and energizing psychic work. Use ginger for success in attracting money or a lover. The healing attribute of ginger helps in dealing with problems, especially in relationships and sexuality in general. Additionally, it can stimulate vitality bringing stability, longevity, and general well-being. Ginger is also associated with beauty, courage, inspiration, memories, and secrets.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius, Scorpio
Solar System: Mars, Moon
Elements: earth, fire
Grapefruit
Botanical Name: Citrus x paradisi
Family: Rutaceae
Grapefruit is a hybrid of the pomelo (Citrus maxima) and sweet (Citrus sinesis) oranges. Pomelos are a fruit from southeast Asia that were introduced into Barbados around 1696. Growing to about 30 feet tall, this tree has glossy leaves and large, yellow fruit. It is the only citrus fruit native to the Americas.
Oil and Blending Information
The entire fruit is cold-pressed to produce a yellow or greenish oil with a sweet and citrusy scent.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: citrus
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: As Above/Fruit
Magical Uses
Grapefruit is instrumental for heightening clairaudience skills and other psychic powers. It fosters inspiration and the ability to connect with one’s inner child. Its powers of purification balance the emotions and restore energy. Use grapefruit to increase overall strength, enhance spirituality, and manifest abundance. In addition, grapefruit’s healing properties promote well-being and a sense of confidence. This oil is also associated with kindness and success.
Correspondences
Solar System: Sun
Elements: air, water
Helichrysum
Botanical Name: Helichrysum angustifolium syn. H. italicum
Family: Asteraceae
Also Known As: curry plant, everlasting, immortelle, Italian strawflower, St. John’s herb
With branching stems that have been described as wand-like, helichrysum is a two-foot-tall herb indigenous to the Mediterranean region. Its species name means “narrow-leaved,” describing this herb’s pine-needle appearance. Although not used in curry, the aroma of its leaves are reminiscent of that Indian dish. The names everlasting and immortelle come from the fact that its yellow flowers keep their color and do not fade when they are dried. This has made it popular for dried flower arrangements, which is how helichrysum is most widely known today. In the past it was used medicinally to treat a range of disorders.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam-distilling the flower tops produces a pale yellow to reddish-colored oil with a woody, honey-like scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle to base
Plant Part: As Above/Flowers
Magical Uses
Although helichrysum is not widely used in magic or ritual, its energy and scent merit attention. This oil raises awareness and assists in psychic communication as well as dreamwork. Use helichrysum to consecrate magic tools and to increase a spell’s effectiveness, particularly those for abundance and attraction. Helichrysum is also useful for grounding and centering energy after magic or psychic work. Its power of renewal aids in clarifying thoughts and strengthening memory. Helichrysum releases emotional baggage, enhances creativity, and supports spirituality. Its healing properties promote longevity and aid in sexual and fertility issues. This oil is also associated with beauty and peace.
Correspondences
Solar System: Jupiter, Neptune
Element: air
Hops
Botanical Name: Humulus lupulus
Family: Moraceae
Also Known As: common hops, European hops
Sporting lobed, heart-shaped leaves, this aggressive climber has greenish-yellow male and female flowers on separate plants. The ripe cones from female plants are used for brewing. Hops’ botanical names come from the Latin humus for soil and a diminutive of lupus, meaning “wolf.” The former refers to how the plant hugs the ground if not staked or given support, and the latter describes its bind-weed tendencies with other plants. Its common name comes from the Anglo-Saxon hoppan, meaning “to climb.”44 Native to Europe and North America, hops grew wild in the hedgerows of Britain and can still be found in some places. Just as asparagus is eaten today, the ancient Romans bundled and steamed the young shoots as a delicacy. Abbess and Christian mystic Hildegard von Bingen is sometimes credited with popularizing their use in brewing.
Oil and Blending Information
The strobiles (female catkins) are steam-distilled, producing an oil that is pale yellow to reddish-amber in color. It has a rich, spicy-sweet scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Flowers
Warnings: may cause sensitization; use in moderation
Magical Uses
Hops are effective for spells of attraction, especially sexual, as well as those that bind people together. Use hops to support divination and element magic, and to ground energy after ritual. This oil is effective in dreamwork related to healing, particularly when you are trying to bring your life into balance. Hops are also associated with beauty, determination, and fertility.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aquarius, Scorpio
Solar System: Mars
Elements: air, earth, water
Hyssop
Botanical Name: Hyssopus officinalis
Family: Lamiaceae
This petite semi-evergreen shrub with lance-shaped leaves and purple-blue flowers is native to the Mediterranean region. From the Greek azob, meaning “holy herb,” hyssop was used by the Greeks and Romans to clean temples and other sacred places.45 It was also used medicinally and regarded by the Romans as a general cure-all. By the eighth century it was a mainstay in Anglo-Saxon gardens and remained so throughout Britain well beyond the Middle Ages. Its use for cleaning was carried on for centuries and recommended as a strewing herb for floors that were difficult to sweep.
Oil and Blending Information
A colorless to pale yellow-green oil is produced by steam distillation of the leaves and flower tops. The scent is slightly sweet and herbaceous with camphoraceous tones.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves and Flowers
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; avoid use if you have epilepsy or other seizure disorder; avoid with high blood pressure; use in moderation
Magical Uses
Because of its long history of use in cleaning sacred spaces, hyssop is perfect for purifying areas for ritual as well as consecrating an altar or anointing participants. It clears away negativity, removes hexes, and provides protection against enchantment. Hyssop supports psychic work and helps to develop divination skills. Use it to invoke dragon energy, and in spells to attract money and beauty into your life. Hyssop engenders clarity of mind for finding one’s purpose. It is instrumental in manifesting change, enhances creativity, and inspires personal growth. Hyssop is also associated with fertility, hope, sexuality, and vitality.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Cancer, Sagittarius
Solar System: Jupiter, Moon
Elements: air, fire
Jasmine
Botanical Name: Jasminum officinale, syn. J. officinale var. grandiflorum
Family: Oleaceae
Also Known As: common jasmine, poet’s jessamine
This climbing shrub with bright green leaves and white, star-shaped flowers has served as a symbol of happiness, hope, and love. While its common name is derived from the Persian yasmin, jasmine has been dubbed “queen of the night” and “moonshine in the garden” because its fragrance is especially strong at night.46 47 This aroma was considered a scent of mystery and used as an aid to spiritual growth. In China, jasmine was used for culinary and medicinal purposes as well as an incense to honor the dead. It was a medicinal and perfumery ingredient in Japan, and by the sixteenth century jasmine became a popular flavoring for tea in Europe. Jasmine is indigenous to northern India and western Asia.
Oil and Blending Information
An absolute is created from jasmine flowers by solvent extraction. The absolute is then steam-distilled to produce an orange-brown oil with a sweet floral and somewhat tea-like scent.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: floral
Perfume Note: middle to base
Plant Part: As Above/Flowers
Warning: may cause sensitization
Magical Uses
For centuries jasmine has been connected with beauty, love, lust, and sex. Instrumental for defensive, moon, night, and sex magic, jasmine enhances divination as well as contact with the spirit realm. This oil is also an ally, providing protection for dreamwork, channeling, and astral travel. Jasmine aids in releasing emotions and thoughts that inhibit personal development, and gives a boost to self-confidence. Associated with happiness, justice, and relationships, jasmine helps manifest desires. Spiritually, jasmine stimulates intuition, bringing inspiration for creative endeavors as well as clarity for communication. It is also instrumental for peace, healing, and overall well-being. Use jasmine in spells to attract luck and prosperity as well as to bind a pledge. This oil’s gentle powers of purification are ideal for anointing and blessing ritual participants. Jasmine is also associated with fertility, friendship, and dealing with problems.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Cancer, Capricorn, Pisces
Solar System: Mercury, Moon
Elements: air, earth, water
Goddesses: Diana, Rhiannon
God: Vishnu
Juniper
Botanical Name: Juniperus communis
Family: Cupressaceae
Also Known As: common juniper, gin berry, juniper berry
With juniper’s name from the Dutch jenever, meaning “gin,” juniper berries have been used to flavor gin and other drinks.48 Native to the northern hemisphere, juniper is a shrubby evergreen with bluish-green needles and green berries that turn black as they mature. In ancient Egypt, juniper incense was used to purify the soul, and as an oil it was used for anointing both the living and the dead. In addition to using juniper berries medicinally, the Romans flavored their food with them when black pepper was unavailable. In medieval Europe, juniper boughs were burned to guard against the plague and bundles of berries were hung above doorways to ward off Witches.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam-distilling unripe juniper berries produces a white or pale yellow oil with a sweet, woody-balsamic scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Fruit
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; may cause slight skin irritation; use in moderation
Magical Uses
Juniper is great for purifying large spaces as well as banishing the energy of negative people. It is instrumental in overcoming problems and releasing toxic emotions. Use it for defense in magic, as it is especially effective against black magic, hexes, and dealing with spirits. This oil enhances divination and dreamwork, and helps increase psychic abilities. Use it to strengthen psychic protection as well as to keep energy grounded in the physical world. Juniper is effective for manifesting abundance, love, prosperity, and success. Where spirituality is concerned, juniper aids in gaining knowledge, growth, and transformation. Its healing properties support fertility, longevity, and general well-being. It is also associated with beginnings, happiness, secrets, security, and stability.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius
Solar System: Mars, Mercury, Moon, Sun
Celebrations: Beltane, Walpurgis, Yule
Elements: earth, fire, water
Goddesses: Hel, Holle, the Morrigan, Ran
Gods: Balder, Loki
Labdanum
Botanical Name: Cistus ladanifer
Family: Cistaceae
Also Known As: cistus, rock rose, sun rose
The leaves of this bushy shrub are sticky with oozing gum, which the Greeks called ladan.49 Shepherds collected this gum by herding their sheep through thickets and then combing it from their fur. Indigenous to the Mediterranean, the labdanum from Crete and Cyprus was considered particularly rich and was used for holy oils and incense. It was part of the medicinal arsenal in Europe from the Middle Ages to modern times. Even though the flowers are white with yellow centers, they resemble the wild rose close enough to merit the common name rock rose. Labdanum should not be confused with laudanum, a tincture of opium.
Oil and Blending Information
A dark yellow or amber oil is produced from the steam-distilled gum. Sometimes the oil is steam-distilled from an absolute. It has a sweet, herbaceous, musky scent.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: base
Plant Part: So Below/Resins
Warning: avoid during pregnancy
Magical Uses
Labdanum is ideal for consecrating an altar or any space used for magic or ritual. Instrumental for divination, it stimulates intuition and aids in receiving messages from spirit guides. This oil broadens self-awareness, bringing forth soul-level knowledge, truth, and renewal. Labdanum is emotionally elevating, yet grounding, making it a positive aid in healing as well as dealing with loss. This oil is also associated with control, trust, and vitality.
Correspondences
Solar System: Pluto, Venus
Element: water
The Lavender Oils
Botanical Family: Lamiaceae
With flower-topped spikes, the lavenders are woody, shrubby evergreens that have been garden favorites for centuries. Commonly used in laundry water since Roman times, lavender’s genus name comes from the Latin lavare, meaning “to wash.”50
Lavandin
Botanical Name: Lavandula x intermedia
Also Known As: bastard lavender, Dutch lavender
Lavandin is a hybrid of true and spike lavenders. The plant is generally larger than true lavender, its stems more woody, and its flowers blue or gray. Because lavandin’s scent is similar to true lavender, it is often used as a substitute.
Oil and Blending Information
Like its cousins, the flower tops are steam-distilled into a colorless to pale yellow oil. Its scent is very similar to true lavender, but a little more herbaceous.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: floral
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: As Above/Flowers
Lavender, Spike
Botanical Name: Lavandula latifolia, syn. L. spica
Also Known As: asarum, aspic, lesser lavender, nardus Italica
Originating in the mountains of France and Spain, this plant’s leaves are wider and rougher than true lavender, inspiring its species name, which means “broad-leaved.” Although its gray-blue flowers are smaller than its cousin’s, they yield about three times the amount of oil. The ancient Greeks named this lavender nardus for the city of Naarda in Syria, from which lavender was traded. The Romans called the plant asarum in the belief that asp vipers were often found underneath. Popular as a strewing herb, spike lavender was recommended for a number of medicinal purposes by herbalist Nicholas Culpeper.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam or water distilling the flower tops produces a white or pale yellow oil. It has a herbaceous, lavender-like, and slightly camphoraceous scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: As Above/Flowers
Warnings: avoid use if you have epilepsy or other seizure disorder
Lavender, True
Botanical Name: Lavandula angustifolia, syn. L. officinalis
Also Known As: common lavender, English lavender, garden lavender, true lavender
True lavender comes from the Mediterranean region and has narrow, pale green leaves and violet-blue flowers. It was popular with the ancient Greeks and Romans for scenting soaps. Throughout Europe during the Middles Ages, it was associated with love and thought to be an aphrodisiac. In addition, it was believed that carrying lavender gave a person the ability to see ghosts. In Elizabethan England (1558–1603), it was a popular strewing herb as well as a scent for linen cupboards. Soapmaker William Yardley, of Yardley of London, knew a good thing when he saw it (or smelled it) and managed to get a monopoly on England’s lavender during the 1770s.
Oil and Blending Information
A colorless to pale yellow oil is produced by steam-distilling the flower tops. It has a mellow, floral-herbaceous scent with balsamic-woody undertones.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: floral
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Flowers
Magical Uses
All three lavenders enhance awareness and intuition for dreamwork, clairvoyance, and all forms of psychic work. They also foster concentration for clarity and inspiration in divination, contact with spirits, and communication in general. Use these oils to stay grounded and stable when engaged in spellwork and elf magic.With well-known powers of purification, these oils are ideal for consecrating sacred space, releasing negativity, and providing protection. Associated with beauty and love, the lavenders promote fidelity and renewal in marriage as well as balance and peace in all types of relationships. Lavenders can assist in healing sexual issues when lust and desire cause emotional problems and sorrow. On the spiritual side of life, these oils provide strength and inspiration. Call on their powers of manifestation to attract prosperity, luck, and well-being to the home. The lavenders are also associated with courage, creativity, fertility, longevity, and secrets.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aquarius, Gemini, Leo, Pisces, Virgo
Solar System: Mercury
Element: air
Celebrations: Litha, Midsummer’s Eve
Goddesses: Hecate, Vesta
God: Saturn
Lemon
Botanical Name: Citrus limon
Family: Rutaceae
Used medicinally throughout Europe for a wide range of complaints, lemons were considered a potent cure-all and became standard cargo on British naval ships, especially for preventing scurvy. In the seventeenth century, they were an ingredient in Carmelite water, an elixir produced by Carmelite nuns that was believed to promote health and longevity. Native to Asia and eastern India, this small tree has light green, toothed leaves and solitary white flowers tinged with pink. Lemon’s species name comes from the Arabic limun.51
Oil and Blending Information
Cold-pressing the entire fruit produces a pale, greenish-yellow oil with a light, fruity-citrus scent.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: citrus
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: As Above/Fruit
Warnings: may cause skin irritation or sensitization; causes photosensitivity
Magical Uses
Lemon is instrumental in providing a clear perspective when preparing for divination as well as for dealing with everyday problems. By raising awareness, lemon increases psychic abilities and inspires movement to a higher spiritual plane. Use this oil for moon magic as well as to purify magic or ritual objects when they come into your life. With the ability to stimulate energy, lemon adds strength to and promotes success in spellwork. It is helpful for connecting and communicating with spirit guides as well as manifesting abundance, happiness, and well-being. Lemon is also associated with confidence and kindness.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aquarius, Cancer, Gemini, Pisces
Solar System: Moon
Element: water
Lemon Balm
Botanical Name: Melissa officinalis
Family: Lamiaceae
Also Known As: bee balm, common balm, honey plant, Melissa, sweet balm
Known widely as Melissa, lemon balm is a bushy herb with square, branching stems. Its bright green leaves are often heart-shaped, and its small clusters of flowers are white to yellowish or pink. From the Greek word for bee, Melissa actually calms and attracts them, which is why beekeepers often grow it near their hives.52 Lemon balm honey has been highly valued since ancient times and was mentioned by both Pliny and Dioscorides, who said it helped heal wounds. In addition, the herbal publication London Dispensary, published in 1696, claimed that lemon balm strengthened the brain and memory. This plant is indigenous to the mountains of Europe and the Middle East.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam-distilling the leaves and flower tops produces a pale yellow oil with a fresh, lemony, herbaceous scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: citrus
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves and Flowers
Warnings: may cause skin irritation; may cause sensitization
Magical Uses
Lemon balm is known as an emotional healer, especially when a relationship ends. It brings comfort and peace whenever there is sorrow. This oil is instrumental for awakening memories for past-life work as well as boosting energy for psychic work. Lemon balm supports focus for dreamwork as well as connecting with spirits. Providing clarity for finding one’s true purpose, lemon balm also supports growth and longevity for carrying it out. Use this oil to attract love, money, and success. Its power of manifestation can bring about changes, encourage renewal, and increase vitality. Lemon balm is also associated with beauty, fertility, happiness, the mind, and sexuality.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Cancer
Solar System: Jupiter, Moon
Elements: air, water
Goddess: Kupala
The Lemongrass Oils
Family: Poaceae
Both of these plants are perennial grasses that reach about five feet in height. They have narrow leaf blades and flowers on branching stalks. Referring to the shape of the flowers, their genus name combines the Greek words kymbe and pogon, meaning “boat” and “beard,” respectively.53 Both types of lemongrass have been cultivated for centuries for culinary and medicinal uses. Lemongrass is the familiar scent component in Ivory® soap.
Lemongrass, East Indian
Botanical Name: Cymbopogon flexuosus
Also Known As: British Indian lemongrass, fever tea, French Indian verbena
Native to eastern India, this lemongrass is now cultivated in the western part of the country, where it is known as fever tea. Its species name means “winding,” referring to the way it grows in a zigzag pattern.54
Oil and Blending Information
A yellow or amber oil is produced by steam-distilling the leaves. This oil has a grassy, lemony scent that is lighter than its West Indian cousin.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: citrus
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves
Warning: may cause skin irritation
Lemongrass, West Indian
Botanical Name: Cymbopogon citrates
Also Known As: Guatemala lemongrass, Madagascar lemongrass
Native to Sri Lanka, this lemongrass is now cultivated in the West Indies, Africa, and tropical Asia. Its species name refers to its citrus-like scent.
Oil and Blending Information
The leaves are steam-distilled, producing oil that can be yellow, amber, or reddish-brown in color. It has a fresh, grassy-citrus scent with earthy undertones.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: citrus
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves
Warning: may cause skin irritation
Magical Uses
Lemongrass brings clarity to prepare for divination and psychic work. It aids in contacting spirits and supports clairvoyance. Lemongrass is also useful in opening the gates of intuition and helping us learn to trust what we feel. Use it to purify amulets as well as to ground and center energy for magic or ritual. It is refreshing for the mind and provides focus for carrying out one’s purpose. While lemongrass is associated with lust and passion, it also supports fidelity. This oil is also associated with vitality.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Gemini
Solar System: Mercury, Sun, Venus
Element: air
Lime
Botanical Name: Citrus medica var. acida syn. C. aurantifolia
Family: Rutaceae
Also Known As: key lime, Mexican lime, West Indian lime, sour lime
Well known for stocking their ships with limes, English sailors became known as limeys. However, this fruit was used medicinally for a range of issues and to prevent scurvy since the tenth century. Originating in southern Asia, this small tree has oval leaves, white flowers, and pale green fruit. The species name aurantifolia means “golden-leaved.”
Oil and Blending Information
Two oils are obtained from limes.
Cold-pressing the unripe peels produces a pale yellow to olive-green oil with a sweet citrus scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: citrus
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: As Above/Fruit
Warning: causes photosensitivity
Steam-distilling the whole ripe fruit produces a white to pale yellow oil with a fruity, clean scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: citrus
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: As Above/Fruit
Warning: causes photosensitivity
Magical Uses
Lime is an energizing oil that stimulates the mind and aids in manifesting abundance and success. Use it for purification to consecrate tools and to create a protective shield against negativity. This oil increases the effectiveness of love spells, and is especially helpful when seeking fidelity. In addition, its healing properties enhance vitality and well-being. Lime is also associated with confidence, friendship, and kindness.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Leo
Solar System: Mercury, Sun
Elements: fire, water
Litsea
Botanical Name: Litsea cubeba
Family: Lauraceae
Also Known As: exotic verbena, May Chang, mountain pepper, tropical verbena
This shrubby tree from eastern Asia has pointed, oval leaves and small, lemon-scented, yellow-white flowers. Resembling peppercorns, the fruit is often substituted for pepper (Piper cubeba). The leaves, flowers, and bark have been used in Chinese medicine for centuries. Litsea is often employed as an alternative to lemongrass and verbena.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam-distilling the fruit produces a pale yellow oil with a sweet, lemony-citrus scent.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: citrus
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: As Above/Fruit
Warning: may cause sensitization
Magical Uses
Litsea is not well known for use in ritual and magic, but it is a lovely oil that brings a great deal of potential. It aids in grounding and centering energy for ritual as well as increasing energy for magic work. Use litsea to provide strength for self-examination when dealing with emotional turmoil. Litsea lightens the heart, fostering happiness, hope, and renewal. Additionally, this oil can help to manifest abundance and success in all areas of life.
Correspondence
Element: water
Lovage
Botanical Name: Levisticum officinale
Family: Apiaceae
Also Known As: common lovage, garden lovage, Maggi herb, old English lovage
Lovage gets it nickname Maggi herb from Swiss miller and inventor Julius Maggi (1846–1912), who created the first instant, ready-to-use soup with it.55 Native to southern Europe and western Asia, lovage has dense foliage and greenish-yellow flowers. It can grow to six feet tall. The stalks, which look like giant celery, have been used as a vegetable since ancient times. The Romans adored it and used it for flavoring, while the Greeks used it medicinally. In the Middle Ages, it was known as loveache and love parsley. In England and Eastern Europe, it was used as an aphrodisiac as well as a deodorant. Lovage was both food and medicine for English colonists in America.
Oil and Blending Information
Two oils are produced from lovage.
Steam-distilling the leaves and stalks creates a pale yellow oil with a spicy scent that has sweet-floral undertones.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: N/A
Warnings: may cause photosensitivity; may cause sensitivity; avoid during pregnancy
The steam-distilled roots produce a light yellow to amber-colored oil. It has a spicy scent with hints of celery and angelica.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle to base
Plant Part: So Below/Roots
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; may cause photosensitivity; may cause sensitivity
Magical Uses
Lovage is instrumental in attracting a lover, as well as promoting romance and passion. It is also instrumental in magic related to sex. This oil can be used to activate energy for psychic work and dreamwork. Use it for purification and clearing away negativity when seeking justice. Lovage can keep you grounded for divination and provides stability when connecting with the Otherworld. Lovage is also associated with cycles, longevity, renewal, and secrets.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Pisces, Taurus
Solar System: Sun, Venus
Elements: earth (root oil), fire
Mandarin
Botanical Name: Citrus reticulata
Family: Rutaceae
Also Known As: European mandarin, mandarin orange, true mandarin
Cultivated for about 4,000 years, the fruit of this small tree has been used medicinally throughout Asia. This native of southern China has glossy oval leaves, white flowers, and easy-to-peel fruit that can be orange or yellow. The species name comes from the Latin reticulate, meaning “netted,” which refers to the white net-like pith underneath the peel. It wasn’t until the early nineteenth century that mandarins were introduced into Europe.
Oil and Blending Information
The peel is cold-pressed, producing a greenish-orange oil with a sweet, almost floral-fruity scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: citrus
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: As Above/Fruit
Warning: may cause photosensitivity
Magical Uses
Mandarin is well known for fostering prosperity, success, and well-being. It clears negative thoughts, bringing clarity and inspiration. Use mandarin to strengthen your defenses when engaging in divination and magic work. It provides a boost in confidence that can increase the effectiveness of spells. Mandarin can also help manifest abundance when not used selfishly. In addition, this oil promotes spiritual development and aids in transcending the mundane. It is also associated with happiness and kindness.
Correspondences
Solar System: Sun
Elements: fire, water
Marjoram
Botanical Name: Origanum marjorana, syn. Marjorana hortensis
Family: Lamiaceae
Also Known As: joy of the mountain, knotted marjoram, sweet marjoram
Marjoram is a bushy herb with dark green, oval leaves and clusters of whitish-gray flowers. It it indigenous to the Mediterranean region. The Romans called it the herb of happiness and gave it to couples on their wedding day.56 The Greeks believed that marjoram blooming on a grave meant that the deceased had found eternal happiness. Marjoram was sometimes planted in graveyards to foster peace for the dead as well as their mourners. Additionally, this herb was associated with longevity. During the Middle Ages, marjoram was used for divination by anointing oneself before bed to encourage dreams of one’s future partner. It was also used to break Witches’ spells.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam-distilling the flowers and leaves produces a pale yellow or amber oil with a spicy-herbaceous and slightly woody scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves and Flowers
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; use in moderation
Magical Uses
Marjoram is effective at Samhain or whenever there is a death, to bring comfort to the deceased and send them on a peaceful journey through the afterlife. For the living it eases sorrow, supports healing, and helps retain memories. Use it before ritual to balance personal energy and release negativity as well as to cleanse magic and ritual tools. Marjoram supports defensive magic, averts black magic, and protects the home. It also provides protection from hexes. This oil provides focus for psychic work and promotes the development of these skills. Use it to bolster sexual attraction and in dreamwork to help find your lover. Where marriage is concerned, marjoram aids in creating a foundation for security and happiness. Use it to initiate change and growth that brings prosperity and renewed purpose. Marjoram is also associated with beauty, fertility, vitality, and well-being.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries, Gemini, Libra, Virgo
Solar System: Mercury
Element: air
Celebration: Samhain
Goddesses: Aphrodite, Kupala, Venus
The Mint Oils
Botanical Family: Lamiaceae
Mint was associated with Demeter, who, according to legend, ate a puree of mint, flour, and water before pursuing Persephone into the Underworld. This mixture is said to have been used during the Mysteries of Demeter rituals at Eleusis. The genus name for mint comes from the nymph Menthe in Greek mythology, who transformed herself into a plant to avoid the advances of Hades. In other versions of the story it is Hades who transforms her to evade the wrath of his wife Persephone.
Peppermint
Botanical Name: Mentha x piperita
Also Known As: balm mint, brandy mint
With serrated leaves along stems crowned by tight whorls of tiny purple flowers, this annual herb is a mainstay of many gardens. Peppermint is a naturally occurring hybrid between spearmint (Mentha spicata) and water mint (Mentha aquatic). Its species name comes from the Latin piper, because the taste of this herb has a hint of pepper.57 Peppermint was used medicinally and in the religious ceremonies of the ancient Greeks and Romans. By the eighteenth century it was widely used for medicinal and culinary purposes throughout Europe and North America. In 1879, mint-scented candles became enormously popular after the British Medical Journal noted that menthol relieved headache and neuralgia.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam-distilling peppermint leaves produces a pale yellow or greenish oil. Its scent is minty and camphoraceous.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: As Above/Flowers
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; may cause skin irritation; avoid if you have high blood pressure; not compatible with homeopathic treatment; use in moderation
Magical Uses
Peppermint stimulates the mind, bringing clarity and focus while promoting inspiration and creativity. It increases psychic awareness and strengthens divination skills as well as prophetic dreaming. Use it to activate spells for attracting money, luck, and love. This oil can also be used to enhance sexual stimulation and lust. Banishing all forms of negative energy, peppermint’s powers of purification help to release memories and emotions. In addition, it is an aid for healing and for bolstering self-worth as well as for overcoming problems. Peppermint is also associated with beauty, changes, fertility, and increasing vitality.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aquarius, Aries, Gemini, Virgo
Solar System: Mercury, Venus
Elements: air, fire
Goddesses: Demeter, Kupala
Gods: Hades, Pluto, Zeus
Spearmint
Botanical Name: Mentha spicata, syn. M. viridis
Also Known As: green mint, lamb mint, our lady’s mint, sage of Bethlehem
The species name of this herb comes from the Latin spicate, meaning “with spikes.”58 Similar to its cousin peppermint, spearmint has tight whorls of pink or lilac-colored flowers atop spikes of bright green leaves. This plant originated in the Mediterranean region. In general, mints were considered aphrodisiacs by the Greeks, who also sprinkled spearmint leaves in bath water for restorative soaks. For certain festivals in ancient Rome, people wove the plants into garlands called Corona Veneris, crown of Venus.59 Spearmint was used by the Spanish as a strewing herb in places of worship while the Mayans used it to induce labor.
Oil and Blending Information
A pale yellow or olive-colored oil is produced by steam-distilling the flower tops. It has a spicy-herbaceous, minty scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: As Above/Flowers
Magical Uses
Spearmint stimulates the mind, strengthening concentration and memory. Use it to purify ritual objects as well as to increase spiritual awareness. Its protective powers are especially useful for the home because it fosters security and a sense of trust. Spearmint is stimulating and especially useful in spells for attracting love, luck, and prosperity. This oil is an aid for increasing vitality, promoting healing, and encouraging growth. Spearmint is also associated with beauty, changes, clarity, and fertility.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Gemini, Libra
Solar System: Venus
Elements: air, water
Gods: Hades, Pluto
Goddesses: Demeter, Kupala, Venus
Mugwort
Botanical Name: Artemisia vulgaris
Family: Asteraceae
Also Known As: armoise, felon herb, St. John’s plant, wild wormwood
Named in honor of the goddess Artemis, protector of women during childbirth, mugwort was prescribed by Dioscorides and Hippocrates as a sedative to aid in the birthing process. Roman soldiers also found this herb useful in their sandals to keep their feet in good condition while on long marches. Medieval pilgrims employed mugwort medicinally as well as an amulet for protection against beasts and demons. Additionally, it was believed that mugwort under the pillow would encourage prophetic dreams. In England its uses ranged from making beer to keeping moths out of clothes. This five-foot-tall, branching perennial has dark green leaves, purplish stems, and yellow-to-reddish-brown flowers. Mugwort is native to Eastern Europe and western Asia.
Oil and Blending Information
The leaves and flower tops are steam-distilled, producing a colorless or pale yellow oil. It has a bitter-sweet herbaceous scent that is slightly camphoraceous.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves and Flowers
Warnings: abortifacient, avoid during pregnancy; orally toxic; hazardous if used on the skin
Magical Uses
Mugwort is instrumental in honing divination skills, especially scrying, as well as for purifying and consecrating divination tools. This oil enhances awareness as it aids astral projection and dreamwork. With strong defensive powers, mugwort protects against spells and provides excellent protection for the home. It supports the ability to see spirits as well as to contact spirit guides. Mugwort is particularly potent for energy and psychic work, and clairvoyance in particular. It can help you define your purpose for spells to attract or banish energy. Mugwort’s healing potential helps to release old baggage and encourage growth as well as invite happiness and beauty into your life. Additionally, this oil is associated with animals, beginnings, fertility, love, and strength.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Cancer, Gemini, Libra, Sagittarius, Taurus
Solar System: Moon, Venus
Elements: air, earth, water
Celebration: Samhain
Goddesses: Artemis, Diana
The Myrrh Oils
Botanical Family: Burseraceae
The word myrrh comes from the Arabic and Hebrew murr and mor, meaning “bitter.”60 The genus name of these plants, Commiphora, means “gum-bearing.”61
Myrrh
Botanical Name: Commiphora myrrha
Also Known As: common myrrh, hirabol myrrh
The Greeks called this thorny, shrubby tree balsamodendron, balsam tree.62 Native to northeastern Africa and the Red Sea region, myrrh was in high demand throughout the ancient world as an ingredient for perfume and medicine. It was also used for ritual purification for the living as well as the dead. With the belief that its aroma pleased deities, myrrh became an important temple incense in Egypt. It was used as a midday offering to the sun god Ra and a moon offering in temples dedicated to Isis.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam-distilling the resin produces a pale yellow to amber-colored oil that has a rich, bitter-spicy scent.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: resinous
Perfume Note: base
Plant Part: So Below/Resins
Warning: avoid during pregnancy
Opopanax
Botanical Name: Commiphora erythraea var. glabrascens
Also Known As: bisabol, sweet myrrh
Similar in appearance but smaller than its cousin myrrh, opopanax is indigenous to eastern Africa, where the scented bark from this tree has been burned as an incense for centuries. Often spelled opoponax, its common name is a source of much confusion. From the Greek opos, juice, and panax, plant, opopanax came to mean all healing juice and was associated with the gum from the parsnip-like Opopanax chironium in the Apiaceae botanical family.63
Oil and Blending Information
The oleo gum is water or steam-distilled, producing a yellow, orange, or olive-colored oil. It has a sweet-balsamic, spicy scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: resinous
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: So Below/Resins
Magical Uses
Although different in aroma, the myrrhs are powerful purifying scents. Use them to consecrate altars and amulets, as well as ritual and magic tools. The myrrhs enhance awareness and focus for divination, past-life, and psychic work as well as communicating with spirits. Instrumental for angel, animal, and sex magic, these oils provide strength for manifesting your intentions. They are powerful allies for dispelling hexes and banishing what you no longer need. Use these oils to build a protective shield when casting spells as well as to bolster control and success. Also use them to clear away negativity when preparing sacred space as well as to ground energy after ritual. These oils release emotional and spiritual blockages, bringing healing, renewal, and transformation. Fostering balance and well-being, the myrrhs aid in confronting problems. Working with subtle energy, the myrrhs help deal with loss and sorrow when a loved one passes, bringing comfort and peace. These oils are also associated with abundance, growth, longevity, and vitality.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aquarius, Cancer, Capricorn, Pisces, Scorpio
Solar System: Jupiter, Mars (opopanax), Moon, Pluto, Saturn, Sun
Celebration: Yule
Elements: air, water
Goddesses: Aphrodite, Cybele, Demeter, Hecate, Isis, Juno, Rhea
Gods: Adonis, Ra, Saturn
Myrtle
Botanical Name: Myrtus communis
Family: Myrtaceae
Also Known As: Corsican pepper
Native to northern Africa, myrtle was commonly believed throughout the Middle East to be a plant from the Garden of Eden. This evergreen shrub has dark, pointed leaves, white flowers, and purplish-black berries. Myrtle is a symbol of sensual love, passion, and immortality. Greek brides adorned themselves with the flowers for good luck as well as to enhance fertility. While myrtle was also an emblem of peace to the Greeks, who dedicated it to Aphrodite, the Romans considered it an icon of victory “through persuasion and negotiation.”64 In addition, Romans burned myrtle leaves as smoke sacrifice in temples and adorned home altars with its branches. Both the Greeks and Romans used it in honor of poets, indicating that their work and fame would live forever. It was also a crown of honor that the priests of Persia wore during rituals. Through the centuries, myrtle retained its glamour, and in the 1700s it was used in a skin lotion called Angel’s Water.
Oil and Blending Information
Myrtle leaves are steam-distilled into a pale yellow or orange oil that has a sweet-herbaceous and slightly camphoraceous scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves
Magical Uses
Myrtle is strongly associated with love, marriage, and sexual passion. It also promotes fertility and fidelity, and aids in dealing with sorrow. This oil supports psychic work, particularly communication with those who have passed beyond the veil. It aids in finding peace by releasing emotions. Myrtle is instrumental in attracting abundance and blessings to the home, as well as keeping it safe. Use it to bolster energy for creative projects and anything that fosters personal growth. Myrtle enhances determination and provides strength when defining your true purpose in life. Myrtle is also associated with cycles and prosperity.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Sagittarius
Solar System: Venus
Celebrations: Lughnasadh, Mabon
Elements: air, water
Goddesses: Aphrodite, Artemis, Astarte, Hathor, Ishtar, Venus
Gods: Dionysus, Eros
Neroli: See the Orange Oils
Niaouli
Botanical Names: Melaleuca viridiflora and Melaleuca quinquenervia viridiflora
Family: Myrtaceae
Also Known As: broad-leafed tea tree, punk tree
Native to Australia, niaouli is a cousin to cajeput, tea tree, and eucalyptus. The niaouli tree has small, pointed leaves and spikes of yellowish flowers. Niaouli oil was originally called gomenol for the province of Gomen in New Caledonia, northeast of Australia, where it was first distilled.
Oil and Blending Information
Niaouli is produced by steam distillation of the leaves and young twigs. The oil can be colorless, pale yellow, or greenish and has an earthy-herbaceous scent reminiscent of eucalyptus.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: So Below/Twigs and Leaves
Magical Uses
With strong cleansing properties, this oil is ideal for purification of areas and objects. Also waft it in the air before magic work to clear negative thoughts and energy. Niaouli helps dispel mental fatigue, invigorate the mind, and balance emotions. It also boosts protection and strengthens determination. This oil fosters kindness and hope while promoting healing and growth.
Correspondences
Solar System: Mercury
Elements: air, earth
Nutmeg
Botanical Name: Myristica fragrans, syn. M. officinalis
Family: Myristicaceae
With shiny oval leaves and clusters of small yellow flowers, this tree produces two well-known aromatic spices: nutmeg and mace. Not surprisingly, its species name means “scented.” In the seventh century, Arab physicians noted nutmeg’s use as a general digestive remedy as well as an aphrodisiac. By the twelfth century, nutmeg was introduced into Europe, where it was often worn as an amulet to ward off illness. The tree is indigenous to Indonesia.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam-distilling the seed kernels produces a white or pale yellow oil that has a sweet, warm-spicy scent.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above and So Below/Seeds
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; use in moderation
Magical Uses
Nutmeg heightens awareness, stimulates psychic energy, and supports dreamwork. It increases magical energy and aids in turning enchantment back on the enchanter. Use it for protection against hexes as well as to break them. Nutmeg promotes focus for divination and supports clairvoyance. In addition, it fosters mental clarity for accessing memories. Use it to strengthen determination when seeking justice or when you need to release things from your life. Nutmeg is ideal for increasing the power of abundance/prosperity spells as well as those that initiate change. This oil encourages balance and fidelity in matters of the heart. Nutmeg is also associated with creativity, beginnings, beauty, cycles, and well-being.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Leo, Pisces, Sagittarius
Solar System: Jupiter, Moon
Elements: air, fire
Oakmoss
Botanical Name: Evernia prunastri
Family: Usneaceae
Also Known As: mousse de chene, treemoss
Dangling like Spanish moss, this light-green lichen grows mainly on oak trees, hence its name. However, it is often found on pine and spruce as well. The French name mousse de chene means “moss-covered oak.” Its species name comes from the Latin pruinatus, meaning “frosted over,” which is the visual effect oakmoss gives to the trees on which it grows.65 The ancient Egyptians used it to flavor and leaven breads, and left baskets of it in tombs. Even though it is indigenous to Europe, its popularity in perfumes didn’t take off there until the sixteenth century.
Oil and Blending Information
The entire plant is used to create a pale yellow or olive-colored absolute by solvent extraction. It has an earthy, bark-like scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: base
Plant Part: N/A
Magical Uses
The energy of oakmoss is especially grounding, which aids psychic and spiritual journey work. This oil is effective for honoring loved ones at Samhain and is instrumental in contacting other realms as well as connecting with forest spirits. It supports divination and clairvoyance. Oakmoss adds a boost to magic work helping to manifest your dreams. It is also instrumental in breaking hexes. Use it to attract money and luck as well as security. Oakmoss is also associated with the emotions and finding one’s purpose.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Capricorn, Taurus
Solar System: Jupiter, Mercury, Moon
Celebration: Samhain
Elements: earth, water
Goddess: Persephone
Opopanax: See the Myrrh Oils
The Orange Oils
Botanical Family: Rutaceae
One theory about the word orange is that it comes from the Persian name of the fruit, narang, which was derived from the Arabic narandj. 66 Another theory is that it comes from Sanskrit nagarunga, meaning “fruit favored by elephants.”67 Whatever the origin of its name, it is thought that an orange may have been the so-called golden apple in Greek myth that Gaia presented to Zeus. Oils from two types of orange trees, bitter and sweet, are included in this book. The bitter orange tree (Citrus aurantium) produces three essential oils: neroli from the blossoms, petitgrain from the leaves, and bitter orange from the fruit.
Neroli/Orange Blossom
Botanical Name: Citrus aurantium
This type of orange tree has dark, glossy leaves and white flowers. The oil from the orange blossom was named in honor of the seventeenth-century princess (or possibly countess) Anne-Marie of Nerola, Italy, who adored the fragrance, thus making it all the rage throughout Europe. Symbolizing chastity, orange blossoms have been a mainstay of bridal bouquets for centuries. In North Africa and the Middle East, these flowers have been used as culinary and medicinal ingredients.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam-distilling orange blossoms produces an oil that is pale yellow to coffee brown. It has a light, sweet-floral scent.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: floral
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Flowers
Magical Uses
Neroli is instrumental for attracting love and promoting a long, happy marriage. Its association with sexuality works to cultivate one’s unique beauty and build confidence. This oil aids in expressing inner truths and opens the door to psychic awareness as well as other realms. Use it for night magic and to communicate with the spirit world. Neroli fosters kindness as well as a peaceful home. This oil is also associated with creativity, fertility, strength, and well-being.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries, Leo
Solar System: Sun, Uranus
Elements: air, fire
Orange, Bitter
Botanical Name: Citrus aurantium
Also Known As: Seville orange, sour orange
Native to China and India, bitter orange has been used as food and medicine for thousands of years. In Chinese medicine it is used to regulate the flow of energy. As a trade commodity, Arabs transported these oranges from the East to the Mediterranean region in the tenth century, and by the Middles Ages this fruit was known throughout Europe. Its wide culinary uses include marmalade, a Belgian beer called Orange Muscat, and liquors such as triple sec.
Oil and Blending Information
Cold-pressing the outer peel produces a dark or brownish yellow oil. Unlike its name suggests, it has a fresh citrus scent similar to grapefruit with an almost floral undertone.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: citrus
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: As Above/Fruit
Warnings: may cause skin irritation; causes photosensitivity
Orange, Sweet
Botanical Name: Citrus sinensis syn. C. dulcis
Also Known As: China orange, Portugal orange
Originating in China, this tree resembles the bitter orange, but is slightly smaller. Sweet orange was introduced into Europe from the Middle East in the eighteenth century and was quickly adopted as an ingredient for mulling wine. It became a fashionable luxury for large estates to have an orangerie, a special greenhouse in which to grow citrus plants in cooler climates.
Oil and Blending Information
The entire fruit is cold-pressed, producing an oil that is yellow-orange to dark orange. Its scent is a sweet, fresh-fruity citrus.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: citrus
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Fruit
Warning: may cause skin irritation
Magical Uses
Both bitter and sweet orange aid in self-awareness, stimulate creativity, and support those who follow a different drummer. These oils redirect energy into positive thinking and emotional clarity to build confidence and a sense of well-being. They are also helpful to manifest love, peace, and fidelity. Use them for pre-ritual purification and to provide focus for divination, dreamwork, and communication with spirits. The oranges can increase the success of spells for abundance, happiness, and money. They are also associated with fertility and strength.
Correspondences
Solar System: Sun
Zodiac: Leo, Sagittarius
Elements: fire, water
Goddesses: Fortuna, Gaia
God: Zeus
Petitgrain
Botanical Name: Citrus aurantium
The name petitgrain means “little grains” and comes from a time when tiny, unripe oranges were used for making oil.
Oil and Blending Information
The leaves and twigs of the bitter orange tree are steam-distilled to create an oil that is pale yellow to amber in color. It has a floral-citrus scent with a woody-herbaceous undertone.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: So Below/Twigs and Leaves
Magical Uses
Petitgrain promotes confidence and trust in self and others. It sharpens the mind, increasing awareness and bringing clarity of inner vision. Use it for focus and protection when channeling or engaging in other psychic work. Petitgrain helps to awaken deep memories that lead the way to personal growth and well-being. This oil fosters balance, kindness, and strength.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries, Leo
Solar System: Sun
Elements: earth, fire
Oregano
Botanical Name: Origanum vulgare
Family: Lamiaceae
Also Known As: common oregano, joy of the mountain, shepherd’s thyme, wild marjoram
Although it shares the nickname joy of the mountain with its close cousin marjoram, this is more apropos for the name oregano, which is a combination of the Greek words oros, for “mountain,” and ganos, meaning “joy.”68 Native to Europe, this bushy herb has dark green leaves and pinkish-purple flowers. It was considered a general cure-all by the ancient Greeks, and, according to legend, Aphrodite employed it to heal Aeneas’ wounds after the battle of Troy. As a decorative feature at Greek and Roman weddings, the oregano wreath was a symbol of happiness. Long before hops came into vogue, this herb was popular for flavoring ales and beers. In addition to flavoring food in colonial America, oregano flower tops were used to dye wool a purplish color and linen a reddish-brown.
Oil and Blending Information
A pale yellow oil with a spicy-herbaceous scent is produced by steam-distilling the flowers.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Flowers
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; hazardous if used on the skin
Magical Uses
Use oregano to bring peace as well as to foster happiness and security in relationships. By encouraging focus and clarity of thought, it provides support for psychic work. It is instrumental in black and defensive magic, especially for providing protection against hexes. Associated with the afterlife, this oil brings comfort during sorrow and helps retain memories of loved ones. Oregano’s purification properties provide balance for healing emotional turmoil, laying the groundwork for positive change. Use this oil in spells to attract beauty and prosperity to the home. Oregano helps to increase vitality for fertility, as well as a more satisfying sex life. It is also associated with truth and the Otherworld.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries, Gemini, Libra, Virgo
Solar System: Mars, Mercury
Elements: air, fire
Goddesses: Aphrodite, Kupala, Venus
Palmarosa
Botanical Name: Cymbopogon martinii var. motia
Family: Poaceae
Also Known As: East Indian geranium, Indian rosha, Turkish geranium
Palmarosa is a wild herbaceous plant indigenous to India and Pakistan. It has long, flower-topped stems and grass-like leaves. The words Indian and Turkish in its names date to a time when this plant was shipped from Bombay (now Mumbai), India, to various places on the Red Sea. Geranium became part of its name, too, because its scent is similar to rose geranium. Palmarosa has been used for culinary and medicinal purposes, as well as to flavor tobacco. With its rose-like scent, it has even been used to dilute otto (oil) of rose.
Oil and Blending Information
A pale yellow to olive-colored oil is produced by steam or water distillation of the leaves. It has a sweet, floral, rose-like scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: floral
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves
Magical Uses
Palmarosa’s stimulating properties help to clear the mind and enhance the ability to focus for decision-making. Encouraging personal growth, it aids in finding one’s purpose as well as overcoming problems. It is helpful whenever you need to ground and center energy. A healer on all levels, this oil provides emotional strength and courage when recovering from lost love. Use it for elf magic and for seeking their blessings. Palmarosa is also associated with relationships, peace, and spirituality.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Cancer, Pisces
Solar System: Venus
Elements: air, water
Parsley
Botanical Name: Petroselinum sativum
Family: Apaiaceae
Also Known As: common or garden parsley
This biennial herb with its familiar crinkly leaves and greenish-yellow flowers is best known for removing the smell of onion and garlic from the breath. Its genus name means “stone celery,” which is attributed to parsley’s ability to grow in rocky soil in its native Mediterranean region.69 According to legend, Hercules adorned himself with the plant, thus making it a symbol of strength and vigor. The Greeks used it medicinally but not as a culinary herb, because it was believed to be sacred to the dead. The Romans associated it with Persephone and the Underworld and used it in funeral rites. During the Middle Ages there was a folk belief that parsley grew especially well where a woman was in charge of the household. In addition, it was customary in some parts of England to plant parsley on certain days such as Good Friday and Midsummer’s Day, because of the belief that it would keep fairies away from crops.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam-distilling the seeds produces an oil that can be yellow, amber, or brownish in color. It has a woody-spicy, herbaceous scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above and So Below/Seeds
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; may cause skin irritation; use in moderation
Magical Uses
Parsley’s association with the afterlife and funerary rituals makes it appropriate to honor and remember loved ones at Samhain. It is a potent ally for element magic, ritual purification, and protection in general. Supporting concentration and balance, this oil is instrumental in astral work. Use it to foster kindness when feeling emotionally fragile during times of change. Parsley is instrumental for keeping cycles turning, initiating renewal, and ushering in fresh, new beginnings. It is also associated with lust and money.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aquarius, Gemini, Libra
Solar System: Mercury, Pluto
Elements: air, fire
Celebrations: Midsummer’s Day, Samhain
Goddess: Persephone
Patchouli
Botanical Name: Pogostemon cablin
Family: Lamiaceae
Also Known As: patchouly, puchaput
Patchouli’s genus name comes from the Hindustani words for “leaf” and “green.”70 The bright green leaves of this bushy plant are large and fuzzy, and the white flowers have a hint of purple. Native to tropical Asia, patchouli was used medicinally throughout Asia and the Middle East. Arabian travelers stuffed pillows with patchouli leaves for protection against illness as well as to promote longevity. Patchouli gained notice in Europe during the early 1800s from the sachets that were tucked into shipments of handmade shawls to protect them from insects during their passage from India. This fragrance was the hallmark of authentic Indian silks, and more than a century later it became the scent for the counterculture of the 1960s and 1970s.
Oil and Blending Information
Patchouli leaves are steam-distilled, producing an amber or dark orange oil. It has a rich, herbaceous-earthy scent that gets stronger and deeper as it ages.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: base
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves
Magical Uses
Grounding yet enlightening, patchouli aids in transcending boundaries and connecting with the Otherworld. Associated with spirituality, patchouli fosters growth and is ideal for blessings. This oil is especially supportive for clairvoyance and divination. Use it for magic, especially when defense is needed as it provides strong psychic protection. It is known for increasing the power of spells and breaking hexes; however, if patchouli is used to place a hex, it will backfire. Employ it to attract love, prosperity, and money, as well as for purification and renewal. Patchouli’s earthiness intensifies the senses, increasing fertility and lust. Known for engendering happiness, it dispels negativity and brings peace to the home. This oil can help manifest your wishes and bring success. Patchouli also aids in communicating with spirits as well as banishing them. It sharpens the mind for gaining knowledge, working out problems, and enhancing creativity. When dealing with the death of a loved one, patchouli helps to hold on to memories as well as release bonds that may keep a spirit from moving on to the next world. Patchouli is also associated with justice, luck, passion, and purpose.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aquarius, Capricorn, Scorpio, Taurus, Virgo
Solar System: Mars, Saturn
Elements: air, earth
Celebration: Samhain
Goddess: Modron
Pepper, Black
Botanical Name: Piper nigrum
Family: Piperaceae
Indigenous to southwestern India, this woody vine can grow up to 16 feet long. It has small white flowers and heart-shaped leaves. The red berries turn black as they ripen and become the familiar peppercorns. As an important trade commodity in the fourth century, pepper was the must-have food flavoring. Medicinally, pepper has been used in China and India for thousands of years. In addition, monks throughout India used it daily to increase energy and stamina for their rigorous, ascetic way of life. Pepper was so valuable in Europe during the Middle Ages that it served as payment for dowries and taxes. Merchants who were called “pepperers” and “spicers” dispensed their wares for culinary and medicinal purposes and became the forerunners of apothecaries.71
Oil and Blending Information
The unripe fruit is steam-distilled, producing a white to pale olive-colored oil. It has a somewhat sharp, spicy, and slightly woody scent. Unlike ground pepper, the oil does not cause sneezing.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle to base
Plant Part: As Above/Fruit
Warnings: may cause skin irritation; not compatible with homeopathic treatment; use in moderation
Magical Uses
Pepper’s energizing qualities stimulate the mind, bringing focus and inner strength. Use it to amplify awareness for dreamwork and divination. Pepper can get things going when you are in a rut and help resolve problems. This oil is instrumental in defensive magic when seeking justice. It also helps to bolster determination and courage, and bring success. Effective for banishings and binding spells, pepper also removes hexes. Its purification properties make it ideal for consecrating ritual gear to release old energy and provide protection. Additionally, it aids in manifesting abundance and security. Pepper is also associated with healing, increase, and lust.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries
Solar System: Mars
Elements: fire, water
Petitgrain: See the Orange Oils
Pine
Botanical Name: Pinus sylvestris
Family: Pinaceae
Also Known As: forest pine, Scotch pine, Scots pine
Reaching over 100 feet tall, this evergreen has rough, reddish-brown bark; pointed brown cones; and needles that grow in pairs. Pine was associated with Pan and other woodland gods, and its species name means “of the woods or forests.”72 Extensively used for shipbuilding in ancient Greece, pine was dedicated to the sea god Neptune. Various parts of the tree were used medicinally throughout Europe and Asia, where it is indigenous.
Oil and Blending Information
The needles and twigs are steam-distilled, creating a colorless or pale yellow oil that has a fresh, woody, and slightly turpentine-like scent. It is often called pine needle oil.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: So Below/Twigs and Leaves
Warnings: may cause skin irritation; avoid if you have high blood pressure
Magical Uses
Pine is well known for purification, which works for releasing negative energy and is especially effective in public spaces. This same quality makes it an ally in defensive magic and in protection from hexes, especially for the home. Use it for blessings and to attract abundance as well as for spells that banish or bind. It is also well known for its association with cycles, beginnings, fertility, and renewal. This oil can steady and focus the mind for psychic work as well as communication with spirits. On a spiritual level, it aids in healing and growth that brings inspiration, peace, and access to ancient wisdom. Pine is helpful when learning to trust intuition and memories, paving the way for self-transformation. Building confidence and courage, pine provides hope and determination when dealing with legal matters. This oil is both stimulating and balancing, which enhances creativity and provides emotional strength. Pine is also associated with friendship, desires, longevity, truth, and well-being.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aquarius, Aries, Cancer, Capricorn, Pisces, Scorpio
Solar System: Jupiter, Mars, Saturn
Elements: air, earth, fire
Celebrations: Beltane, Midsummer, Yule
Goddesses: Aphrodite, Artemis, Astarte, Cybele, Diana, Ishtar, Isis, Rhea, Venus
Gods: Attis, Bacchus, Dionysus, Neptune, Pan, Poseidon, Silvanus, Vulcan
The Rose Oils
Botanical Family: Rosaceae
Through the centuries, roses have symbolized confidence, love, happiness, passion, and more. Their importance and mystery have been highlighted in myth, art, and literature. According to Greek legend, a drop of Aphrodite’s blood gave the rose its red color. In addition, roses were said to have been a component in Cleopatra’s arsenal of seduction. Myth tells us that Eros presented a rose as a gift to Harpocrates, the god of silence. Using this as a cue, it became common practice to hang a rose over the dinner table when the conversation was to be confidential, which was the source of the term sub rosa. In the ceremony of Rosalia, Romans scattered rose petals on the graves of loved ones, symbolizing the start of a new state of being as well as to give them a good send-off.
For centuries, rose oil has been known as otto of rose, rose otto, and attar of rose. When shopping for rose oil today, it is common to find it listed as rose otto or rose attar. Unlike jasmine, rose petals can be steam-distilled; however, this method has a low yield of essential oil, making it expensive. Because rose absolute is often distilled into an oil, it is wise to use a vendor that offers specific information about the extraction methods for each oil.
Rose, Damask
Botanical Name: Rosa damascene
Also Known As: Turkish rose
Despite its name, this rose did not originate in Syria, the land of roses, but is thought to have come from Asia. The Damask rose is a shrub that grows to between three and six feet tall. It has single, medium-pink flowers and many thorns. This type of rose has been found in Egyptian tombs, and it is believed to have been introduced during the reign of Ramses the Great (1279–1213 BCE). In Indian myth, Lakshmi, the wife of Vishnu, was found in a rose, and from this came the custom of a groom giving his bride attar of rose on their wedding day.
Oil and Blending Information
A pale yellow or olive-colored oil is produced by steam or water distillation of the petals. The scent is rich, sweet-floral, and just slightly spicy.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: floral
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: As Above/Flowers
Warning: avoid during pregnancy
Rose, Maroc
Botanical Name: Rosa gallica syn. R. x centifolia
Also Known As: cabbage rose, French rose, Moroccan rose, rose de Mai, rose of Provence
Believed to have originated in Persia (Iran), this rose shrub reaches about five feet in height and has semi-double, pink or red flowers. It is the rose that Greek poet Sappho (circa 615–550 BCE) called the queen of flowers.
Oil and Blending Information
The petals are steam-distilled to create a pale yellow oil that has a rich, rosy-sweet scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: floral
Perfume Note: middle to base
Plant Part: As Above/Flowers
Warning: avoid during pregnancy
Magical Uses
Roses are the greatest symbols of love and beauty. Use rose oil to attract love, heighten desire and passion, and increase fertility and fidelity. Working on a spiritual level, rose instills deep devotion that brings inspiration and wisdom. It attracts peace to the home and aids in dealing with family issues. Additionally, its healing energy brings happiness, friendship, and luck to the home. This oil is a powerful aid for divination, Otherworld contact, and encouraging prophetic dreams. It is supportive when engaging in clairvoyance, communicating with spirits, and with psychic work in general. Because fairies are quite enamored with roses, these oils help to attract them and to invite their blessings. Rose oil is also good for consecrating amulets and charms. Use it for banishings and binding spells, for aid in releasing hexes, and for help when keeping secrets. This oil is instrumental in providing emotional comfort during times of sorrow or loss, especially following the death of a loved one. Rose is also associated with confidence, courage, creativity, power, self, and strength.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Cancer, Libra, Sagittarius, Taurus
Solar System: Venus
Elements: air, water
Celebrations: Ostara, Rosalia
Goddesses: Aphrodite, Demeter, Flora, Freya, Hathor, Holle, Isis, Lakshmi, Venus
Gods: Adonis, Angus, Cupid, Eros, Harpocrates
Rosemary
Botanical Name: Rosmarinus officinalis
Family: Lamiaceae
Also Known As: elf leaf, incensier, rosmarine, sea dew
Native to the Mediterranean, rosemary is a shrubby plant with pine needle–like leaves and pale blue flowers. Often found growing on the sea cliffs of southern France, rosemary was described as having the smell of the ocean with a hint of pine. This is the source of its genus name, which means “dew of the sea.”73 Since ancient times, rosemary was used in religious ceremonies, magic spells, and more mundanely as a medicinal herb. The Greeks and Romans used it at weddings as a symbol of fidelity and at funerals for remembrance. In the belief that rosemary improved memory, students in ancient Greece burned it or wore a sprig of it in their hair for help in passing exams. In fourteenth-century Europe, rosemary blossoms were sugared and eaten as a preventive measure against the plague.
Oil and Blending Information
A colorless or pale yellow oil is produced by steam distillation of the leaves and flower tops. It has a minty-herbaceous scent with a woody undertone.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves and Flowers
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; avoid with epilepsy or other seizure disorders; avoid with high blood pressure
Magical Uses
As in the past, rosemary is associated with remembering the dead. Use it at funerals or in Samhain rituals to honor those who have passed beyond the veil. Because it improves memory, it is instrumental for remembering dreams as well as for past-life work. Rosemary’s cleansing properties make it useful for clearing negativity before ritual, magic, or healing work. This oil reduces the intensity of strong emotions, making it helpful in balancing
relationships and engendering fidelity between lovers. Also use it in spells to bind people together as well as to banish what you no longer need in your life. Rosemary is instrumental in defensive magic to release and protect against hexes. Also use it to consecrate charms and amulets. While it can attract elves and fairies, it also protects against malicious entities. Rosemary enhances awareness and increases magic and psychic powers. This oil provides focus and clarity for all forms of communication as well as inspiration for creative pursuits. Rosemary is also associated with friendship, luck, lust, marriage, and wisdom.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aquarius, Aries, Leo, Sagittarius, Virgo
Solar System: Mercury, Moon, Sun
Elements: air, fire
Celebrations: Samhain, Walpurgis, Yule
Goddess: Kupala
The Sage Oils
Botanical Family: Lamiaceae
The genus name for sage, Salvia, comes from the Latin salvare, meaning “to cure” or “make healthy.”74 The sage oils in this book do not include white sage (Salvia apiana), which is used as a sacred herb by Native Americans. Although white sage oil is becoming increasingly popular in specialty shops, it is not as readily available in the form of a true essential oil as are the other sages. In addition, it is important to note that although the essential oil from Artemisia douglasiana is usually called blue sage oil, the plant itself is commonly called white sage, which is sometimes confused with Salvia apiana.
Clary Sage
Botanical Name: Salvia sclarea
Also Known As: clary, clary wort, clear eye, muscatel sage, see bright
This herb has large leaves tinged with purple and small, blue flowers. Indigenous to southern Europe, clary’s species name comes from the Latin clarus, meaning “clear.”75 This sage was used for centuries as a remedy for eye problems, and during the Middle Ages, it was known as clear eyes.76 For centuries, clary was held in high regard as a general tonic and was often added to wine or beer to increase their euphoric effect as well as impart a better taste.
Oil and Blending Information
The leaves and flower tops are steam-distilled to produce a colorless or pale yellow-green oil. It has a sweet, nutty-herbaceous scent.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle to base
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves and Flowers
Warning: avoid during pregnancy
Magical Uses
Clary sage aids in focusing the mind, brings clarity of purpose, and strengthens memory. Its energy is instrumental in developing intuition and enhancing creativity. Inspiring inner peace, it is helpful when seeking self-knowledge and transcending spiritual boundaries. Use clary for dreamwork, particularly if you have difficulty remembering dreams. Additionally, it supports psychic development, divination, and clairvoyance. Helpful when seeking the truth, clary also helps hold secrets. This herb aids in dealing with sexual issues, including attraction and fertility. Use it in spells to invite money and prosperity into your life as well as when you need to make changes. Clary sage is also associated with balance, beauty, growth, and vitality.
Correspondences
Solar System: Mercury, Venus
Elements: air, earth
Sage, Common
Botanical Name: Salvia officinalis
Also Known As: common or garden sage, Dalmatian sage, true sage
In centuries past, this sage was used more for medicinal than culinary purposes. Drinking sage tea was thought to promote good health and enhance longevity. For those who preferred something stronger, there was sage ale. Sage was highly valued by the Romans, who called it herba sacra, sacred herb. Through the ages it was believed to promote wisdom. Originating in the Mediterranean region, common sage is an evergreen herb with hairy, gray-green leaves and blue or violet flowers.
Oil and Blending Information
The leaves are steam-distilled, producing a colorless to pale yellow oil. It has a warm-spicy, herbaceous scent that is slightly camphoraceous.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves
Warnings: abortifacient, avoid during pregnancy; oral toxin; avoid with epilepsy or other seizure disorder; do not use on the skin; avoid if you have high blood pressure; use in moderation
Sage, Spanish
Botanical Name: Salvia lavandulifolia
Also Known As: lavender-leaved sage, lavender sage, narrow-leaved sage
Spanish sage is an evergreen shrub similar to its cousin common sage, but its grayish leaves are smaller and it has small, blue-violet flowers. This sage was regarded as a cure-all in Spain, where it was believed to contribute to longevity. It is native to Spain and southern France.
Oil and Blending Information
The leaves are steam-distilled into a pale yellow oil with a fresh-herbaceous and slightly pine-like scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; use in moderation
Magical Uses
Sage provides focus and stability for clairvoyance, divination, and psychic work. Its grounding energy clears negativity and is instrumental for ritual purification. An aid in finding spirit guides, sage oil helps to attune with animal power while providing psychic protection. Use sage to stimulate as well as release memories to bring peace, comfort, and healing. Also use it for spells of wealth, prosperity, and making your wishes come true. Sage oil is an aid for spiritual inspiration when seeking truth and wisdom. It is helpful for finding strength of purpose when dealing with problems. Sage is also associated with fertility, longevity, secrets, and vitality.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aquarius, Pisces, Sagittarius, Taurus
Solar System: Jupiter, Mercury
Elements: air, earth
Celebrations: Mabon, Samhain, Walpurgis, Yule
Goddess: Kupala
God: Zeus
Sandalwood
The name sandalwood has been applied to various trees from several botanical families. What is considered true sandalwood comes from the Santalum genus in the Santalaceae family. Of these, Santalum album, or Indian sandalwood, is the sandalwood, but unfortunately its popularity and overuse is causing its destruction. Like rosewood (Aniba rosaeodora), sandalwood is becoming an endangered tree. For this reason I did not include rosewood or the classic Indian sandalwood in this book. However, the sandalwoods are magically and spiritually powerful, so I have included Australian sandalwood (Santalum spicatum) because the Australian government regulates the harvest of these trees to ensure sustainability. While the scent of this sandalwood is slightly more resinous and less sweet than Indian sandalwood, it works well as an alternative.
Sandalwood, Australian
Botanical Name: Santalum spicatum
Family: Santalaceae
Sandalwood’s genus name come from the Sanskrit name for the tree.77 This sandalwood is a small tree that grows in dry regions of Australia. It has rough, almost black bark, lance-shaped leaves, and clusters of small, white flowers that grow at the ends of branchlets. It produces round, plum-like fruit. Since the 1800s the aromatic timber has been harvested for incense, mainly for export to China. Like its Indian cousin, the scent of this sandalwood deepens meditation and promotes higher levels of consciousness. The combination of sandalwood and rose is one of the oldest aphrodisiacs.
Oil and Blending Information
The roots and heartwood are steam-distilled, producing a pale yellow oil. Its scent is rich, woody, somewhat balsamic, and slightly floral.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: base
Plant Parts: So Below/Roots, Wood and Bark
Magical Uses
Sandalwood is well known for supporting personal growth, providing spiritual inspiration, and manifesting peace. Its healing energy brings renewal, stability, strength, and well-being. Use sandalwood to augment element, angel, and moon magic, as well as to bring success in legal matters. This oil supports psychic work and aids in contacting spirit guides. Sandalwood is instrumental in past-life work, helping to break ties with the past while protecting against emotional upset. It enhances awareness for clairvoyance and is instrumental for banishing spells and breaking hexes. Supporting grounded energy and clarity of mind, it also aids in divination, dream, and astral work. Additionally, this oil boosts creativity and aids in expressing your desires. Sandalwood has strong purification properties that can be used for consecrating altars and magic tools as well as clearing away negative energy. Use sandalwood to stimulate sexuality, attract love, and aid in maintaining a happy marriage as well as to improve relationships. Sandalwood is also associated with balance, luck, power, and sorrow.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aquarius, Cancer, Leo, Pisces, Virgo
Solar System: Mercury, Moon, Venus
Elements: air, earth, water
Goddess: Venus
God: Vishnu
The Savory Oils
Botanical Family: Lamiaceae
The genus name for these plants comes from the Latin Satureia, relating to the mythical satyr or man/goat, who was equated with sexual vitality.78 Since ancient times these herbs were used to regulate the libido. Native to Europe, they are among the plants recommended for growing near hives to ensure that bees return. The Saxons gave theses plants the common name savory.
Savory, Summer
Botanical Name: Satureja hortensis
Also Known As: garden savory
Summer savory is a small herb with slender, lance-shaped leaves and small, pale lilac-colored flowers. This plant’s species name comes from the Latin hortensia, meaning that it is a cultivated plant and not a wild one.79 Summer savory is a popular culinary herb that is also used as a tea.
Oil and Blending Information
A colorless or pale yellow oil is produced by steam-distilling the entire plant. It has a fresh, herbaceous, and slightly spicy scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: N/A
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; hazardous if used on the skin
Savory, Winter
Botanical Name: Satureja Montana
Also Known As: mountain savory
This savory is a shrubby perennial with lance-shaped leaves and clusters of white-pink flowers. The species name comes from the Latin montana, meaning that it grows wild in the mountains.80 The Romans used winter savory as a flavoring for vinegar and introduced the plant into England, where in the seventeenth century it became popular to flavor meat and fish. It is one of the herbs used in the French bouquet garni for simmering soups and stews. Before pepper was available to the American colonists, winter savory was used in its place for flavoring.
Oil and Blending Information
Like summer savory, the entire plant is steam-distilled to produce a colorless or pale yellow oil. This savory oil has a sharp, herbaceous, and somewhat medicinal scent.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: N/A
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; hazardous if used on the skin
Magical Uses
Savory is a powerhouse that boosts sexual appetite and enhances sexual expression. It aids concentration and fuels the mind for tackling problems. Savory oil promotes productivity and opens the way for creativity. Use it for healing and when you seek kindness and comfort. Savory is also associated with happiness.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Virgo
Solar System: Mercury
Elements: air, fire
Snakeroot
Botanical Name: Asarum canadense
Family: Aristolochiaceae
Also Known As: colicroot, false coltsfoot, Indian ginger, wild ginger
Snakeroot is a low-growing, bushy herb with glossy heart-shaped leaves. Three distinctive brownish-purple sepals, the outermost part of a flower, protect the young buds and give the plant an alien appearance. Snakeroot was used medicinally for a range of ailments by Native Americans and was quickly adopted by European settlers. The common name snakeroot may have come from the use of its European cousin (Asarum europaeum) for treating snake bites or possibly because clumps of young shoots look like a den of little snakes. Snakeroot is sometimes substituted for real ginger (Zingiber officinale).
Oil and Blending Information
An amber to brownish-yellow oil is produced by steam-distilling the rhizomes. It has a woody-spicy, ginger-like scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: spicy
Plant Part: So Below/Roots
Warning: avoid during pregnancy
Magical Uses
Snakeroot aids in attracting luck, money, and general prosperity. Use it for ritual purification and to build protection, especially from hexes. Snakeroot’s grounding energy provides stability that augments psychic work. In addition to supporting contact with the Otherworld, this oil aids in holding secrets. It is also associated with longevity.
Correspondences
Solar System: Mars
Element: earth
Spikenard
Botanical Name: Nardostachys jatamansi
Family: Valeriananceae
Also Known As: Indian root, false Indian valerian root, nard
The ancient Egyptians used spikenard to purify and raise spiritual vibrations in temples, while the Hebrews and Hindus used it for ritual and medicinal purposes. It was important to the Greeks and Romans as an ingredient in nardinum, a scented oil used for anointing hair prior to crowning with wreaths at festivals. In addition, spikenard was highly valued in India for perfume. Reaching three feet in height, spikenard has wide leaves and long stems that support pink, bell-shaped flowers. It is native to mountainous areas of northern India, China, and Japan.
Oil and Blending Information
The rhizomes are steam-distilled, creating a pale yellow or amber oil. The earthy woody scent is sometimes described as a mix of musk, patchouli, and valerian.
Strength: 4
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: base
Plant Part: So Below/Roots
Magical Uses
Associated with peace and kindness, spikenard aids in communication between people as well as with animals. It also aids in contact with the Otherworld. This oil is useful for consecrating altars, purifying magic tools, and grounding energy after ritual. Spikenard’s cleansing properties also negate negativity, bringing balance and fidelity to relationships. Use it in spells to attract love and luck. This oil is instrumental in focusing the mind for solving problems as well as creative expression. Spikenard can be instrumental in healing, especially when recovering from emotional wounds. It is also associated with longevity, secrets, stability, and well-being.
Correspondences
Solar System: Mercury, Saturn, Venus
Elements: earth, water
Spruce
Botanical Name: Pinus canadensis syn. Tsuga Canadensis
Family: Pinaceae
Also Known As: common hemlock, eastern hemlock, hemlock spruce
This tree should not be confused with the hemlock (Conium maculatum) used to poison Greek philosopher Socrates in 399 BCE. Native to North America, hemlock spruce can grow as tall as 100 feet. It has small, brown cones and flat needles that grow in spirals around the branches. As was often the case, Europeans learned about the treasure trove of medicinal applications from Native Americans. The settlers also brewed young twigs to make a tea and used the bark to dye wool brown or give leather a rich reddish highlight. The Lakota people believed this tree helped them connect with the Great Spirit.
Oil and Blending Information
The needles and twigs are steam-distilled to produce a colorless or pale yellow oil. Its scent is fresh and balsamic with a fruity hint.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: So Below/Twigs and Leaves
Magical Uses
Spruce enhances memory and stimulates psychic abilities, especially channeling. It helps develop intuition as well as to discern when to act on it. Use it to connect with forest spirits. Instrumental in releasing stagnant emotions, this oil brings clarity, hope, and renewal. It aids in finding inspiration, deepening spirituality, and strengthening trust. Use it to keep energy grounded when seeking wisdom. The stability engendered by spruce is a boon to protection while dealing with problems. Known as a healer on many levels, this oil aids in personal growth, bringing comfort and security. It is also associated with balance, longevity, and money.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Cancer, Capricorn
Elements: earth, water
Goddesses: Cerridwen, Cybele, Danu
Gods: Attis, Poseidon
Star Anise
Botanical Name: Illicium verum
Family: Magnoliaceae
Also Known As: aniseed stars, Chinese anise
Star anise’s botanical names come from the Latin illicium, meaning “seductive,” which refers to its fragrance, and verus, which means “true.”81 Reaching about 60 feet in height, this evergreen has tapering leaves and green-yellow flowers. The seedpods, which are picked and dried before ripening, are in the shape of an eight-pointed star. This liquorice-flavored spice has been popular in kitchens throughout southeast Asia, where it is indigenous, and has been used in Chinese medicine for over a thousand years. Buddhists in Japan planted star anise near their temples and burned the seedpods as incense. Because of its similarity in taste, Europeans often substituted it for anise (Pimpinella anisum).
Oil and Blending Information
Steam-distilling the fruit produces a pale yellow oil with a spicy-sweet, liquorice-like scent.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Fruit
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; use in moderation
Magical Uses
Star anise is instrumental for increasing psychic abilities and supporting clairvoyance. As a powerful purifier, this oil is useful for consecrating altars and magic tools as well as for banishing negative energy. Anoint each cardinal direction of an altar to amplify the power of ritual and magic. Star anise boosts awareness for divination practices and when contacting the Otherworld. Use this oil in spells to manifest abundance, happiness, luck, and success.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aquarius, Pisces, Sagittarius
Solar System: Jupiter, Mercury
Elements: air, water
Storax
Botanical Name: Liquidambar orientalis
Family: Hamamelidaceae
Also Known As: Levant styrax, liquidambar, rosemalles, stracte, styrax
This small tree has purplish-gray bark and gets its genus name from its amber-colored resin. Storax flowers are yellowish-white, and its leaves have five lobes. Its species name means “of the dawn” or “eastern.”82 It is said to have come from the Levant, which refers to a large area in the Middle East that encompassed a number of present-day countries. This plant has been used medicinally in both eastern and western cultures for thousands of years. In ancient Egypt the resin was used in perfumery as well as the embalming process. In France it was an ingredient in the mixture used to wash and scent the shirts of King Louis XIV (1638–1715), who was known as the Sun King.
Oil and Blending Information
A white to pale yellow oil is produced by steam distillation of the resin. It has a rich, sweet-balsamic scent.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: resinous
Perfume Note: base
Plant Part: So Below/Resins
Warning: may cause sensitization
Magical Uses
Transforming negative energy into positive, storax provides psychic protection and has the power to break hexes. It rouses the mind to enhance divination as well as creativity. Use storax to attract love and luck, and to increase the power of spells. On the home front, it provides stability and attracts prosperity. The healing aspect of storax bolsters vitality. This oil is also associated with confidence and control.
Correspondences
Solar System: Mercury, Sun
Elements: earth, fire, water
Tagetes
Botanical Name: Tagetes minuta
Family: Asteraceae
Also Known As: Aztec marigold, Indian carnation, marigold, Mexican marigold, taget
Although this flower originated in South America, its botanical name honors the Roman god Tages, grandson of Jupiter. According to legend, Tages was said to have sprung from the earth and was credited with teaching plowing and agriculture to the Etruscans. The species name refers to the size of its bright orange flowers rather than the plant itself, which only grows 12 inches tall.83 In South America tagetes were used for medicinal and ritual purposes. The Aztecs regarded the plants as sacred and grew them amongst their crops for protection—a practice that actually helps repel insects. Considered the flower of the dead by the Aztecs, tagetes are used on altars for Day of the Dead observances (November 2nd) in present-day Mexico.
Oil and Blending Information
The flowers are steam-distilled to produce a yellow or dark orange oil. It has a slightly bitter, herbaceous scent with fruity undertones
Strength: 3
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves and Flowers
Warnings: may cause skin irritation; use in moderation
Magical Uses
This oil is instrumental in defining your purpose for divination, clairvoyance, and dreamwork. It aids in developing psychic skills and enhances the ability to see magical creatures. Use it for angel magic as well as to provide spiritual protection. Tagetes is instrumental for Samhain as a blessing or offering to the dead, to ease sorrow, and to wish loved ones peace in the afterlife. This oil fosters good communication and is especially helpful for engendering fidelity in sexual relationships. Associated with success, tagetes can be an aid in legal matters by supporting a determined mind. Use it in spells to attract abundance, comfort, happiness, and prosperity. Tagetes encourages healing for personal growth and transformation. This oil is also associated with beauty, fertility, longevity, and wealth.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Cancer, Leo
Solar System: Sun
Elements: air, fire
Celebrations: Beltane, Mabon, Samhain
Gods: Tages, Xochiquetzal
Tarragon
Botanical Name: Artemisia dracunculus
Family: Asterceae
Also Known As: dragon’s mugwort, French tarragon, little dragon
This cousin to mugwort has smooth, narrow leaves and drooping clusters of yellow-green flowers. Native to Europe, southern Russia, and western Asia, tarragon is an herb that can grow up to three or four feet tall. From the Latin dracunculus, meaning “dragon-like,” tarragon’s species name describes the serpentine appearance of its roots. Popular in the Middle East, the Arab physician Avicenna prescribed it for various remedies, and its common name comes from the Arabic word for the plant, tarkhum. 84 In France it was known for curing serpent bites and called herbe au dragon; however, since the time of Charlemagne (742–814), it has been a common mainstay in French kitchens.
Oil and Blending Information
Steam-distilling the leaves produces a pale yellow oil with a spicy-sweet, anise-like scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: middle
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; may be orally toxic; use in moderation
Magical Uses
Despite tarragon’s association with dragons, it is a plant of abundance and comfort. Use its dragon energy in protection spells to instill confidence and a sense of security. Tarragon is instrumental for dreamwork as well as understanding the knowledge received. It supports self-exploration and growth, and aids in finding life’s true purpose. Use tarragon to foster peace when seeking justice. It is also associated with secrets.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries
Solar System: Mars
Elements: air, fire, water
Tea Tree
Botanical Name: Melaleuca alternifolia
Family: Myrtaceae
Also Known As: narrow-leaved paperbark, ti tree
While tea tree is a general name applied to the 300 varieties of melaleuca native to Australia, this is the only one that produces oil. This evergreen has papery bark, needle-like leaves, and spikes of yellowish-white or purple flowers. Its genus name comes from the Greek melas (black) and leukos (white), referring to its dark green leaves and white bark.85 British captain and explorer James Cook (1728–1779) called it tea tree when he saw Aborigines brewing the leaves. This tree’s powerful antiseptic properties made it part of traditional medicine for centuries and a standard item in Australian Army kits during World War II. As its use proliferated through the ranks of other armies, it became known as the “Wonder from Down Under.”
Oil and Blending Information
The leaves and twigs are steam or water distilled, producing a pale yellow-green or white oil. It has a woody, medicinal, and slightly spicy scent, similar to its cousin eucalyptus, but softer. The oil is also known as ti-trol and melasol.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: So Below/Twigs and Leaves
Warning: may cause sensitization
Magical Uses
Tea tree is an exceptional healer that supports both physical and emotional recovery. It builds strength, increases confidence, and fosters trust. With strong powers of purification, tea tree provides protection and aids in removing hexes. This oil helps to set a determined mind for finding a worthy purpose in all endeavors. Use it for inspiration to enhance creativity and to find balance in personal growth.
Correspondence
Element: earth
Thyme
Botanical Name: Thymus vulgaris
Family: Lamiaceae
Also Known As: common thyme, English thyme, sweet thyme, white thyme
This bushy Mediterranean herb grows about a foot high and has oval leaves and small, pink to lilac or bluish-purple flowers. The genus name may come from the Greek thymos, meaning “to perfume or fumigate,” or thymus, meaning “courage.”86 In Greece, thyme was used to make perfumes for homes and temples. It was burned on altars as offerings as well as to purify sacred spaces. According to myth, thyme sprang from the teardrops of Helen of Troy. Pliny recommended planting it near hives because it attracts bees and results in a special-flavored honey. Roman soldiers and medieval knights used it for courage and to increase vigor. Likewise, during the French Revolution it was worn by people on the barricades to bolster courage. In some parts of England, thyme was thought to be a favorite of fairies, and brushing a sprig of it across the eyes was thought to allow a person to see them.
About the Oil
The chemical constituents of thyme vary widely according to where it is grown, which is why you will find many types of thyme oils. They are designated with CT, meaning chemotype. Thyme has about six or seven chemotypes, each with different therapeutic properties. I suggest using Thymus vulgaris CT linalool, which is known to be very gentle. Designated as one of the white thyme oils, it is often used for people who are sensitive to the stronger types.
The first distillation of leaves and flower tops produces an oil called red thyme. This is because the color can be reddish, reddish-brown, or reddish-orange. Distilling the plant material a second time results in white thyme oil, which is clear or pale yellow. Linalool is a product from the second distillation and has a herbaceous, slightly sweet scent.87
Strength: 4
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: middle to top
Plant Part: As Above/Leaves and Flowers
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; may cause skin irritation; avoid with high blood pressure; use in moderation; may cause sensitization
Magical Uses
Although thyme is a very common herb, it is a powerhouse for magical purposes. Thyme is well known for its purification properties, making it ideal for preparing ritual space and consecrating altars. Use it to stimulate energy for divination and psychic work as well as any type of work involving the fairy realm. Also use it to clear negative energy in general, and to enhance awareness for clairvoyance. Thyme boosts strength and courage, and provides protection during contact with the Otherworld. Use this oil to increase the effectiveness of spells involving love, luck, and money. As a healer, thyme fosters personal growth and well-being. It also aids in dealing with sorrow and helps bring happiness to the home. This oil is also associated with confidence and renewal.
Magical Correspondences
Zodiac: Aries, Capricorn, Libra, Taurus
Solar System: Venus
Elements: air, water
Celebration: Walpurgis
Turmeric
Botanical Name: Curcuma longa
Family: Zingiberaceae
Also Known As: curcuma, haldi, Indian saffron, Indian yellow root, yellow ginger
Sporting dull yellow flowers, turmeric has lance-shaped leaves on three-foot-tall stems that grow directly from its thick, orange root. Native to southern Asia, this herb is a cousin to ginger and galangal, and its history of culinary and medicinal uses dates back to the seventh century BCE. Its common name comes from the Latin terra merita, referring to a yellow mineral pigment that resembles the one produced from turmeric.88 In addition to dyeing priests’ robes, dabbing a little turmeric paste to the hem of a new garment was believed to make it auspicious. Turmeric pigment was also used in Hindu rituals, especially women’s life-cycle ceremonies for puberty and weddings. With the belief that supernatural beings and evil spirits did not like the smell of burning turmeric, it was used to test whether a person was an ordinary human or a ghost.
Oil and Blending Information
A yellow-orange oil with a slight blue fluorescence is produced by steam distillation of the rhizomes. It has a fresh, spicy-woody scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: spicy
Perfume Note: base
Plant Part: So Below/Roots
Warnings: avoid during pregnancy; may cause skin irritation; use in moderation; may cause sensitization
Magical Uses
With strong powers of purification that enhance the flow of energy, turmeric can be employed to protect a magic circle or to clear ritual space. It is also useful for breaking hexes as well as grounding and centering energy. Turmeric’s uplifting energy builds confidence and courage, which is particularly useful when connecting with the Otherworld. Inviting stability and longevity, this oil’s healing energy fosters a general sense of well-being. Turmeric is also associated with passion and secrets.
Correspondences
Solar System: Mars
Elements: earth, fire
Valerian
Botanical Name: Valeriana officinalis
Family: Valerianaceae
Also Known As: cat valerian, common valerian, garden heliotrope, vandalroot
Despite the plant’s odor, which prompted Greek herbalist Dioscorides to name it Phu, valerian was a valued medicinal in the ancient world. Its common name is thought to have come from the Latin valere, meaning “to be well,” and during the Middle Ages it was known as all-heal and blessed herb.89 It was also used as a culinary ingredient in soups as well as a sachet herb to scent clothing. Attractive to cats and rodents, it is believed that the Pied Piper of Hamelin used valerian to lure the rats away from the city. The name vandalroot comes from the Swedish vändelrot, a reference to its use by Teutonic tribes known as the Vandals.90 Indigenous to Europe, this five-foot-tall plant has dark leaves and clusters of purplish-white or pink flowers.
Oil and Blending Information
The rhizomes are steam-distilled, producing an oil that is olive to brown in color. Its scent is warm, woody, and balsamic.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: base
Plant Part: So Below/Roots
Warnings: use in moderation; may cause sensitization
Magical Uses
Valerian’s powers of purification are useful in consecrating new ritual tools as well as ritual space. It aids in breaking hexes and provides protection for the home, bringing peace, stability, and happiness. This oil opens the lines of communication for resolving problems as well as connecting with Otherworld spirits. Use valerian to support love and money spells. As a healer, valerian boosts vitality and longevity, and keeps energy grounded during emotional turmoil. It is helpful for getting into a creative frame of mind. Use it to access knowledge and when seeking the truth within secrets. Valerian is also associated with cycles and kindness.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Scorpio, Virgo
Solar System: Mercury, Venus
Elements: earth, water
Goddesses: Epona, Kupala
Vetiver
Botanical Name: Vetiveria zizanoides
Family: Poaceae
Also Known As: vetivert, khus khus, moras
Native to southern India and Indonesia, vetiver is a grass with long, narrow leaves and straight, tufted stems that can reach six feet in height. Although its species name means that it resembles wild rice, vetiver oil was known as the oil of tranquility.91 Fans woven from this grass served double duty for cooling as well as imparting a delightful, soothing fragrance. This practice was quickly adopted by women in the southern United States when vetiver was imported to America.
Oil and Blending Information
The roots are steam-distilled, producing an amber, olive, or dark brown oil. It has a rich, woody-smoky scent with sweet undertones.
Strength: 5
Scent Group: woody
Perfume Note: base
Plant Part: So Below/Roots
Magical Uses
Vetiver amplifies connection with the earth helping to ground and center energy as well as connect with the Underworld. Use it in defensive magic to amplify personal power as well as to break hexes. Vetiver is also effective in spells dealing with luck, love, and money. It can bring both prosperity and protection to the home and family. Vetiver is a source of stability and strength for dealing with problems as well as emotional turmoil. This oil supports spiritual development and promotes balance between the spiritual and mundane. It is also associated with longevity and secrets.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Capricorn, Libra, Taurus
Solar System: Jupiter, Saturn, Venus
Elements: earth, fire, water
Goddess: Yemaya
Yarrow
Botanical Name: Achillea millefolium
Family: Asteraceae
Also Known As: blood wort, devil’s nettle, milfoil, nosebleed, thousand leaf
Native to Europe and Asia, this herb has dense, pink-white flower heads atop three-foot-tall stems. The ancient Chinese removed the branches of lacy leaves and trimmed the stems to use as I Ching divination sticks. They also considered yarrow a sacred plant because of its balance of yin and yang energies. To the Greeks, yarrow was an important medicinal herb, which they named for the hero Achilles, who reputedly used it to heal the wounds of his fellow soldiers. Although the Romans also used it to stanch bleeding on battlefields and called it herba militaris, it was more widely employed for common things such as nosebleeds. 92 The nickname devil’s nettle comes from the belief that this plant was dedicated to Satan. It was used in spells and charms as well as strewn across doorways to keep Witches from entering households.
Oil and Blending Information
The whole plant is steam-distilled into a dark blue or greenish oil with a sweet herbaceous scent.
Strength: 3
Scent Group: herbaceous
Perfume Note: top
Plant Part: N/A
Warning: may cause sensitization
Magical Uses
Yarrow’s grounding energy clears away negativity, releases hexes, and banishes anything unwanted. Use it to purify ritual space and consecrate tools. It aids in stimulating intuition and psychic abilities (especially clairvoyance) by opening awareness to higher universal energies. This also makes yarrow a powerful ally for dreamwork and divination. Use yarrow in animal and defensive magic, for success in love spells, and to attract fairies. It also provides psychic and spiritual protection and aids in communicating with the spirits of loved ones who have passed. Yarrow engenders fidelity and longevity in marriage, leading the way to happiness and well-being. It supports friendships that lead to emotional healing and growth. Additionally, yarrow provides the confidence and courage to tackle big problems as well as spiritual issues. It is also associated with abundance, beauty, beginnings, changes, fertility, and luck.
Correspondences
Zodiac: Cancer, Gemini
Solar System: Venus
Elements: air, water
Gods: Achilles, Cernunnos
Ylang-Ylang: See the Cananga Oils
18. de la Tour, Earth Mother Herbal, 52.
19. Wilson, Aromatherapy, 49.
20. Ibid., 84.
21. Ibid., 53 and 54.
22. Grieve, A Modern Herbal, 103.
23. Heilmeyer, Ancient Herbs, 30.
24. Janardhanan and Thoppil, Herb and Spice Essential Oils, 35.
25. Clarkson, Magic Gardens, 369.
26. Phaneuf, Herbs Demystified, 62.
27. Mojay, Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit, 58.
28. Wheelwright, Medicinal Plants and Their History, 84.
29. Neil, Gardener’s Latin, 135.
30. Wilson, Aromatherapy, 64.
31. Raghavan, Handbook of Spices, Seasonings, and Flavorings, 101.
32. Wilson, Aromatherapy, 66.
33. Chevellier, Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants, 166.
34. Wilson, Aromatherapy, 67.
35. Ibid., 71.
36. Grieve, A Modern Herbal, 293.
37. Bennet, The Wild Woods Guide, 273.
38. Grieve, A Modern Herbal, 339.
39. Illes, Pure Magic, 236.
40. Neil, Gardener’s Latin, 51.
41. Rose, 375 Essential Oils and Hydrosols, 204.
42. Foster and Yue, Herbal Emissaries, 93.
43. Phaneuf, Herbs Demystified, 142.
44. Grieve, A Modern Herbal, 411.
45. Ibid., 426.
46. Coombes, Dictionary of Plant Names, 110.
47. Fischer-Rizzi, The Complete Aromatherapy Handbook, 104.
48. Wilson, Aromatherapy, 82.
49. Langenheim, Plant Resins, 435.
50. Panda, Essential Oils Handbook, 90.
51. Grieve, A Modern Herbal, 474.
52. Platt, Lemon Herbs, 1.
53. Johnson and Foster, National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature’s Medicine, 228.
54. Neil, Gardener’s Latin, 53.
55. Pauwels and Christoffels, Herbs, 59.
56. Wilson, Aromatherapy, 91.
57. Rose, 375 Essential Oils and Hydrosols, 21.
58. Neil, Gardener’s Latin, 115.
59. Heilmeyer, Ancient Herbs, 92.
60. Johnson and Foster, National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature’s Medicine, 256.
61. Rose, 375 Essential Oils and Hydrosol, 20.
62. Miller and Miller, The Magical and Ritual Use of Perfumes, 46.
63. Rose, 375 Essential Oils and Hydrosol, 195.
64. Heilmeyer, Ancient Herbs, 72.
65. Neil, Gardener’s Latin, 86.
66. Wilson, Aromatherapy, 101.
67. Murray, Health Benefits Derived from Sweet Orange, 8.
68. Dobelis, Magic and Medicine of Plants, 243.
69. Arrowsmith, Essential Herbal Wisdom, 193.
70. Johnson and Foster, National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature’s Medicine, 282.
71. Duke, Duke’s Handbook of Medicinal Spices, 24.
72. Neil, Gardener’s Latin, 120.
73. Wilson, Aromatherapy, 113.
74. Ibid., 130.
75. Ibid., 61.
76. Chevallier, Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants, 163.
77. Rose, 375 Essential Oils and Hydrosols, 23.
78. Staub, 75 Exceptional Herbs for Your Garden, 212.
79. Rose, 375 Essential Oils and Hydrosols, 23.
80. Ibid.
81. Ibid.
82. Neil, Gardener’s Latin, 89.
83. Ibid.
84. Staub, 75 Exceptional Herbs for Your Garden, 221.
85. Johnson and Foster, National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature’s Medicine, 354.
86. Wilson, Aromatherapy, 126.
87. Linalool is a type of naturally occurring terpene alcohol found in many essential oils. It was named for the oil from the linaloe tree.
88. Johnson and Foster, National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature’s Medicine, 36.
89. Chevallier, The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants, 146.
90. Tucker, The Encyclopedia of Herbs, 498.
91. Neil, Gardener’s Latin 135.
92. Chevallier, The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants, 54.