Who ARE you?

“Can you tell me, you don’t know do you?” aesthetic n witchy blog for Midas and Wil.

[mahigxn-deactivated20200629]

Is there anything I can help you with? (Updated Services)

Hello again everyone! I thought I’d hop on here and update you on the services I offer. As my schedule has recently freed up slightly, I won’t be offering these in a manner of lots anymore. It’s a free for all! I’ve also updated prices and now offer custom oil and ointment blending.

As always, I reserve the right to accept or deny any requests. I do not offer refunds. Tumblr will not be used to discuss potential workings. Every spell will receive a preliminary evaluation through means of divination before it is accepted or denied.

Services

Candle Workings

Candle workings are best suited for short term situations, as well as blessings, curse reversals, and when striving for any specific resolution. Reconciliation spells, domination spells, and other spells involving one or more third parties are slightly more complicated and come at a higher cost.

Candle Workings are offered at a flat rate of $35USD, although those involving more than one person or involve navigating a particularly complex situation are offered at a flat rate of $50USD.

All Candle Workings will require you to send me a personal affect of those involved, whether a piece of hair, nail clippings, saliva, blood, an item of clothing, etc… at your expense.

Upon request, you will receive photos and/or an audio recording of the casting session, as well as a report and outline of the working.

I will gladly offer advice as to how to make the best of your candle working.

Talismanic Construction

Rates for talismans are subject to fluctuation based on complexity, components, and particular requests. They are offered at a base rate of $30USD, but, depending on the variables involved, may come at a higher price.

All talismans will be shipped to you for a flat fee of $9USD.

Talismans may require upkeep to keep their power and influence active. Talismans have a shelf life. If you do not feed the talisman, its power will fizzle out, rendering it useless unless re-consecrated. Instructions and advice as to how to go about this will be provided.

I am open to recreating historical talismans, as well as phylacteries, given it may take a little longer so I can conduct research on the particular topic.

Upon request, you will receive photos, and/or an audio recording of the consecration session, as well as an outline of the procedure.

Custom Oils and Ointments

Custom oils and ointments are priced on a case to case basis. The complexity of each request will be measured, and the product will be priced accordingly. The volume requested will also play a role. You may request the product to be enchanted, or not.

The leftover product may be offered to the public at a discounted price. I do not want to hoard product I may not have use for.

All oils and ointments will be shipped to you at a flate rate of $9USD.

I will not entertain requests pertaining to flying ointments, or other concotions that may have a significant physical or medicinal effect on the user.

I am not a licensed herbalist or practitioner of herbal medicine. These products are meant for magical use only. I also expect you to mention any allergies, or sensitivities that should be avoided.

Upon request, I will provide a list of the ingredients, along with photos of the process.

Tarot Readings

Tarot readings are offered at a flat rate of $10USD, regardless of complexity, within reason. That said, tips are greatly appreciated.

You will receive a detailed report of the reading, including the spread used, the cards pulled, and personal advice on how to navigate the situation.

Tarot readings are conducted via email only. I will not skype, video chat, or facetime anyone, nor will I record the session.

Geomantic Charts

Geomantic charts are offered at a flat rate of $5USD, seeing as I do not consider myself nearly as competent as I would like to be. Again, tips are greatly appreciated.

You will receive a detailed report of the reading, including the figures present in the pertinent houses, a list of perfections or denials, as well as any personal advice I may offer.

Geomantic charts are offered via email only. I will not skype, video chat, or facetime anyone, nor will I record the session.

How to contact me

All inquiries should be sent to [email protected]. Please include your first, middle, and last name, as well as the first, middle and last name of anyone involved. Explain the situation or inquiry in detail, and please include which service you would like to discuss. I will get back to you as soon as I can with a short reading on the situation, as well as whether or not I accept this request.

I will not perform any working or reading on your behald before having received payment. All prices are subject to negotiation, within reason. I will not entertain ridiculous negotiations.

As always, I look forward to hearing from you!

Cheers,

Mahigan

[the-lo-life-deactivated20201211]

Happy Black History Month!!!

[brujitaflora-deactivated2023120]

How to spot a fake ATR practioner

This is highkey inspired by that one “witch” yall had to witness me drag.

ғιrѕт тнιngѕ ғιrѕт: wнaт ιѕ an aтr?

An ATR is an African Traditional Religion, usually a category for practices such as Vodou, Hoodoo, Santeria, Ifa, and others. These practices are exclusive as they are passed down through the generations of a family, usually by word of mouth or by writing. While some need proper initiation say in Haiti or Cuba, some do not and one can be “initiated” in the home as a child. These practices are not without ‘calling’ to them which means a practioner must be called by the spirits of the certain religion (Lwa for Vodou, Orisha for Ifa/Santeria, Ancestors for Hoodoo) to obtain knowledge and properly join the practice. Because of this, these practices are known as Closed Initiatory Practices and it is knowledge that only those of African descent can be called, however there have been many fair cases of those not of African descent being successfully called.

тнe appeal oғ aтrѕ

As a generational Hoodoo practioner, I can very well understand the appeal that these cases actually have. I can remember finding out about my family history and being drawn to the thought of continuing it. Many people have been drawn to these religions and practices but not usually for the right reasons. One practice commonly sought after is Vodou. Vodou is not like one would see in Hollywood’s eyes, an elder and mother religion of Africa. This certain appeal that most have is something that can come off as rude, ignorant, and insensitive when one who is not being called tries to intrude on the religion because of their certain beliefs.

тнe мιѕconcepтιonѕ oғ ѕтeppιng ιn

Many of those people who overstep are usually pushed with certain thoughts and misconceptions. I’ll explain. ATRs are ATRs and therefore NOT WESTERN. They are traditional practices. The “dogma” that surrounds them is for their and the practitioners own protection of being watered down. One may not simply pick them up because they like them and feel ot is their right to play with them because they believe all things should be free into many practitioners. That is not the way it goes for ATRs or any other traditional practice. It does not matter how many books one reads, there is line not to be crossed unless you are called to cross over. Another thing is that ATRs aren’t to be mixed with other religions as they are not pagan. We do not serve Gods, we serve a God and multiple higher spirits, known as divine deities, usually lesser under the main “god.” Our Orisha and Lwa are not pagan gods and should not be called on as such. Our practices should not be mixed with wiccan spells as they are not. Respect is to be had when learning about these practices.

нow тo ѕpoт a ғaĸe

Regardless of how many times someone like myself asks for another not to intrude, there will always be someone who does and you can always spot them. One big thing is that most fakes claim ties to Vodou or Santeria. If they truly are, they must be able to tell you who initiated then, where they were initiated, who was there, who is their Head (main Orisha or Lwa), which family they belong under (Vodou). Most of the time, they cannot answer one of those questions let alone all. A fake will get mad at you for asking but a real practioner will answer with ease. Me being a Hoodoo practioner I am not initiated into either, being as my heritage lies in the south of the US. However I do plan to follow my elders and initate into Ifa. Something else is that they cannot give you a reading about who your Head is or if you’re being called if they aren’t a Priest/Priestess and a lot of people love claiming that title without all the invigorating work. For Ifa “readers” ask them how many cowrie shells they use to divine with the Orisha. There is only one answer. Another indicator is their lack of information that is proper. A lot of fakes give out misinformation which leads to trouble and when asked to properly explain, they get upset. If you have a question about a certain ATR, ask someone who is an actual practioner. You will know because, again, they will answer questions with ease.

The internet has allowed many people to play behind masks. Dont be afraid to rip them off.

[spiritroots]

Connecting with Oshun

Some things associated with Oshun that I’ve tried which have made me feel so close with my Iya and a few new ideas as well 🏵💃🏽

> Put on some cinnamon cologne and annoint your temples with it for some Oshun wisdom

> Make some sweet water (a teaspoon of cinnamon and a tablespoon of honey into a mug of hot water)

> Really get your hips shaking when you dance

> Comb your hair, look into a mirror, and feel some self love

> Hang a peacock feather over your bed for confidence and passion in the bedroom

> Thank our sweet mama by pouring some honey in a natural river as an offering after tasting a little of it first (to show Oshun that it isn’t poisoned)

For initiated Ifá practitioners or people of African descent only!

[globalriseofblackpeople]

I’m down for it all lol knowledge is power

Our ancestors were powerful . And they demonize everything we did

[globalriseofblackpeople]

Truth

White supremacy turn everything we’ve practiced into something demonic and evil but in reality it’s not . They use witch craft against us while we stay away from it . They make “black magic” look evil . A lot of black people are easily spooked of their own divinity

[whiteappalachianwitch]

DIY: Brews and Potions

Witches standing over an open fire while stirring up potions in a cauldron is one of the many romanticized views of witchcraft. Today, witches brew many things for love, luck, health, wealth, and etc. Potions are a widely regarded instrument for witches. Potions are simply liquid spells that can be taken internally or applied externally to the body. Teas, enchanted perfumes, tinctures, and washes are the many forms these spells can come in. Some are used for healing, others are used in ritual or magickal work. 

Kitchen Herbs and Common plants for Brews

Back in the day, homemade teas and salves were the only medicine available. Using these things today is still very popular and a holistic approach to health that treats the mind, body, and soul together. What you use does not have to be expensive, it can come from your back yard or your home. Many of what you already have you can use to make tinctures, teas, and decoctions. Also, syrups, tonics, waters, and vinegars. If you work with the herbs you have at home already on hand, you will be able to create your own remedy with a distinct local flavor. 

The Power Behind the Plants

It is believed that many spiritual forces animate the world; called animism. When working with a plant or crystal, or performing a spell or ritual at a specific place, witches work with the spirits behind those plants or crystals, and call upon the spirit of that location to help them in their work. There is a special partnership and alliance between the witch and spirit, manifesting in forms of animals (familiars) or in the form of other plants, crystals, and locations. Over time, working with these spirits on various projects will deepen the relationship and the witch will gain information on magical associations, properties, and lore. These things often come through dreams, inspirations, or visions. The spirit will gain energy, attention, and physical shelter as animals or plants or crystals carried as a talisman. 

Teas and Decoctions for Health

Using teas and decoctions (herb-and-water remedies in the form of conceited potions that your drink) is a very easy homeopathic way to get started. They are made with dried or fresh herbs, roots, or flowers infused in hot water. Cold infusions is used for tinctures, where the herbal properties are absorbed and released into liquids over time. 

Decoction Method

For plants woody and seedy such as root and bark, use this method

Once the plant parts are boiled, place on a low heat and set to simmer for 15-20 minutes

After simmered, cool them and strain them, pressing the herbs through a cheesecloth or strainer

Ready to drink

Tea Method

For flowers, leaves, fruits, and/or stems of plans, use this method

Start steeping the herbs in the water before it reaches full boil 

Once the water begins to steam or boil, remove it from heat

Steam for no more than 5-10 minutes

While hot, strain into a container

Drink right away or follow the cold tea method

Cold Tea Method

Following all the preparations of the tea method, after straining, pour into a container and place in the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour. 

Herbs for Teas and Decoctions

If using a tea ball, only use a pinch of each plant or spice. If using an infusion pot, or something similar, use approximately ¼ teaspoon of each ingredient. If you use root, seeds, or bark, use the decoction method. If you use flowers, leaves, fruits, or stems, use the tea method. If you use a combination of plant matter, use the decoction methods but then drink it iced following the cold tea method. 

Angelica Root: Soothes colds and flu, reduces phlegm and fever; expectorant (do NOT use if you are diabetic) 

Basil: Eases headaches, indigestion, muscle spasms, insomnia, earaches; reduces stress and tension, improves skin 

Blackberry (leaves or roots): Reduces diarrhea (note: blackberry roots are used as decoction, while blackberry leaves are used for tea)

Catnip: Soothes teething pain, colic, diarrhea, indigestion, anxiety, insomnia (may cause drowsiness, avoid if on lithium or sedatives) 

Calendula (marigold): Reduces fevers and diarrhea; soothes indigestion, gastrointestinal gramps, flu; antiseptic (may cause drowsiness, avoid if on sedatives) 

Cayenne Pepper: Soothes coughs, colds, arthritis, nerve pain, fever, flu; expectorant (avoid taking with medications that slow blood clotting and with theophylline) 

Camomile: Reduces insomnia, anxiety, stress, fever, arthritis, indigestion; aids with sleep and pain relief (may decrease effectiveness of birth-control pills and some cancer medications, and may increase the effects of warfarin; discuss usage with your doctor if you are taking medications for your liver) 

Cinnamon Bark: Soothes sore throats and coughs, anti-inflammatory (avoid taking with diabetes medications) 

Dandelion Root: Detoxifying, aids digestion, relieves constipation, laxative (avoid if on antibiotics, lithium, or water pills) 

Dandelion Leaf: Mild diuretic, potassium rich (discuss usage with your doctor if you are taking medications for your liver) 

Elderberry Berry: Wards off colds and flu

Elderberry Flower: Reduces fever (avoid taking with medications that decrease the immune system) 

Garlic (for syrups): Antiseptic, eases atherosclerosis, rheumatism, ear infections, urinary tract infections; supports healthy cholesterol; helps lower blood pressure; boosts immune system; expectorant; reduces risks of colon, rectal, and prostate cancers (do NOT take with isoniazid or medications used for HIV/AIDS, or with medications used to slow blood-clotting) 

Ginger: Eases morning sickness, nausea, colic, indigestion, diarrhea, fever, sore throats (avoid taking with medications that slow blood-clotting) 

Ginkgo: Relieves anxiety, vertigo, tinnitus; improves circulation, helps concentration; helps vision and premenstrual syndrome (avoid taking with ibuprofen or with medications that slow blood clotting; numerous medications have interactions with ginkgo; discuss usage with your health care practitioner before taking) 

Ginseng: Aphrodisiac, mild stimulant, boosts the immune system (do not take with medications that slow blood-clotting, and avoid taking with diabetes medications or with MAO inhibitors) 

Goldenrod: Relieves gout and cramps

Lavender: Relieves anxiety, headaches, tension, stress, indigestion, irritable bowl syndrome; antibacterial; antiseptic; disinfectant (may cause drowsiness, avoid if on sedatives) 

Lemon Balm: Relieves anxiety, cold sores, colic, insomnia restlessness, indigestion; boosts memory (may cause drowsiness, avoid taking with sedatives) 

Nettle: Relieves hay fever and arthritis; diuretic (avoid taking with diabetes medications, medications for high blood pressure, sedatives, medications that slow blood clotting, and lithium) 

Onion (for syrups): Helps lower systolic blood pressure, relieves colds, antiseptic (avoid taking with medications that slow blood clotting) 

Parsley: Helps with iron deficiency, anemia, fatigue; diuretic (do NOT take with medications that slow blood clotting or with diuretics) 

Peppermint: Relieves nausea, anxiety, indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, colic, diarrhea, fever, coughs, colds; anesthetic (avoid if you have acid-reflux disease; avoid taking with cyclosporine; discuss usage with your doctor if you are taking any medications that are changed by the liver) 

Pine Needles: Expectorant; antiseptic; relieves coughs, colds, fever, congestion

Rosemary: Improves focus, memory, concentration, blood pressure, circulation; antiseptic, antidepressant; eases indigestion

Thyme: Antibacterial, antiseptic, eases coughs and colds, expectorant (do NOT take with medications that slow blood-clotting) 

Tea and Decoction Health Blends 

The amounts listed here are for dried herbs, flowers, and spices. Dried ingredients are preferred for teas. If you wish to use fresh ingredients for decoctions, and they are available, double the amount. 

Anxiety Relief

¼ teaspoon chamomile

¼ teaspoon lemon balm

Cold Relief

¼ teaspoon elderberry flower

¼ teaspoon thyme 

Mood Booster

¼ teaspoon lavender 

¼ teaspoon catnip

¼ teaspoon rosemary

Gastrointestinal Cramp Relief

¼ teaspoon basil

¼ teaspoon calendula (marigold)

¼ teaspoon goldenrod 

Arthritis/Joint Pain

¼ teaspoon goldenrod

¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

(Note: after the tea cools, apply it by rubbing the liquid into the affected area)

Diarrhea Relief

¼ teaspoon blackberry root

¼ teaspoon catnip

Circulation

¼ teaspoon ginkgo leaf

¼ teaspoon ginger

¼ teaspoon rosemary 

Energizing Tea

¼ teaspoon ginseng

¼ teaspoon peppermint 

Indigestion Relief

½ teaspoon ginger

¼ teaspoon lemon balm

¼ teaspoon peppermint 

Expectorant

¼ teaspoon pine needles

¼ teaspoon nettle leaf

¼ teaspoon angelica root

Sleepy Time

½ teaspoon chamomile

¼ teaspoon catnip

¼ teaspoon lavender 

Fatigue Relief

¼ teaspoon ginseng 

¼ teaspoon lemon balm

Fever Break

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper 

¼ teaspoon angelica root 

Flu Relief

¼ teaspoon calendula (marigold)

¼ teaspoon lemon balm

Headache Relief

¼ teaspoon basil

¼ teaspoon thyme

¼ teaspoon lavender 

Immune-System Booster 

½ teaspoon dried elderberries 

¼ teaspoon nettle 

¼ teaspoon calendula (marigold) 

Sore Throat Relief

1/8 teaspoon cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ginger

(Note: add honey after steeped) 

Stress Relief

¼ teaspoon basil

¼ teaspoon chamomile

¼  teaspoon lavender 

¼ teaspoon peppermint 

Cleansing 

¼ teaspoon dandelion leaf

1/8 teaspoon goldenrod 

1/8 teaspoon parsley 

Herbs for Magickal Teas

Follow these steps to empower your tea:

As you steep the potion, envision yourself covered in either a blue or green light (whichever color represents healing to you)

As you drink the potion, visualize a blue or green light coming from the liquid. 

Once you drink , the light will start radiating from within throughout your whole body and then out into the world around you

See it reach heaven (as above) and into the earth (so below), extending your will and desire into the universe

if you are the kind of person who likes affirmations and chants, try saying: “Herbs grown naturally, health and wellness come to me” (Robbins & Bedell, 2017) 

Angelica Root: Angel work, protection, hex removal, exorcisms, health, meditation, divination (do NOT use if you are diabetic) 

Basil: Loves exorcisms, wealth, astral travel, rituals for the dead, house blessings, ancestral work, calling on and working with dragon spirits, calling draconic or dragon spirit–based energy into your spell, protection, attracting money

Blackberry: Healing, money, protection, exorcism

Catnip: Love, beauty, happiness, calling on the energy of cats, working with cat spirits, used as an offering for cat spirits, breaking spells, fertility, psychic powers (may cause drowsiness, avoid if on lithium or sedatives) 

Calendula (marigold): Money, prosperity, health, psychic development, protection, prophetic dreams, legal matters, psychic powers, healing (may cause drowsiness, avoid if on sedatives)

Cayenne Pepper: Fidelity, hex breaking, protection, removal of blocks and negative energy, overcoming obstacles, fire, strength, passion (avoid taking with medications that slow blood clotting an with theophylline) 

Camomile: Protection, luck, money, sleep, peace, purification (may decrease effectiveness of birth-control pills and some cancer medications, and may increase the effects of warfarin; discuss usage with your doctor if you are taking medications for your liver) 

Cinnamon: Sexuality, lust, wealth, money, consecration, purification, love (avoid taking with diabetes medications)

Dandelion (both root and leaf): Purification, manifestation of wishes, enrichment, money (avoid if on antibiotics, lithium, or water pills; discuss usage with your doctor if you are taking medications for your liver)

Elderberry: Exorcism, protection, healing, prosperity, sleep, protection against witchcraft (avoid taking with medications that decrease immune system) 

Ginger: Love, money, success, power, protection (avoid taking with medications that slow blood clotting)

Ginkgo: Healing, mental clarity, fertility; avoid taking with ibuprofen or with medications that slow blood clotting; numerous medications have interactions with ginkgo, discuss usage with your health care practitioner before taking)

Ginseng: Fertility, sexuality, lust, manifestation of wishes, healing, beauty, protection (do NOT take with medications that slow blood clotting; avoid taking with diabetes medications or with MAO inhibitors) 

Goldenrod: Money, divination (may cause drowsiness, avoid taking with sedatives)

Lavender: Love, protection, purification, happiness, peace, healing, meditation, psychic abilities (may cause drowsiness, avoid taking with sedatives)

Lemon Balm: Love, success, healing, cleansing (may cause drowsiness, avoid taking with sedatives)

Nettle Leaf: Protection, exorcism, healing, jinx-breaking, lust (avoid taking with sedatives, lithium, or medications for diabetes, for high blood pressure, or that slow blood clotting)

Parsley: Healing, fortune, success, lust, protection, purification, ancestor veneration, working with the dead, traveling to the land of the dead, calling upon the energy of death and decay (do NOT take with medications that slow blood clotting or with diuretics)

Peppermint: Purification, love, healing, psychic powers, (avoid if you have acid-reflux disease; avoid taking with cyclosporine; discuss usage with your doctor if you are taking any medications that are changed by the liver)

Pine Needles: Cleansing, drawing the aid of spirits, love, mental focus, protection, lust, exorcism, healing

Thyme: Health, healing, sleep, psychic powers, love, purification, courage, good luck (do NOT take with medications that slow blood clotting) 

Magickal Tea Recipes

Attract and Protect Money

¼ tsp goldenrod

¼ tsp chamomile

¼ tsp basil

Exorcism

¼ tsp angelica root

¼ tsp nettle leaf

¼ tsp elder flower

Spirit Aid

¼ tsp parsley

¼ tsp rosemary 

Love and Lust

1/8 tsp cinnamon

¼ tsp catnip

¼ tsp ginseng 

Cleansing

¼ tsp dandelion

¼ tsp lemon balm

¼ tsp thyme

Protection

¼ tsp pine needles

¼ tsp elderberries

¼ tsp blackberry leaf

Divination

¼ tsp goldenrod

¼ tsp peppermint

Psychic Development

¼ tsp calendula (marigold) 

¼ tsp ginkgo leaf

¼ tsp lavender 

Tinctures and Tonics for Health 

A tincture is a traditional herb infusion made with an alcohol base. A tonic usually uses either vegetable glycerin or apple cider vinegar as the base. The alcohol used in tinctures must be at least 100 proof, or 50%, alcohol, which is why most vodkas and gins are used. Tinctures can also be made with vegetable glycerin or apple cider vinegar for those with alcohol issues, although less potent and yet still effective. 

Crafting Tinctures and Tonics

Tools needed:

Two mason jars

Cheesecloth

The herbs/plants/spices

Measuring cups

An herb grinder

Alcohol/vegetable glycerin/apple cider vinegar 

Tool to measure the dosage such as droppers for infant medication

Steps for recipe creation:

When preparing a tincture, the rule of thumb is you want a 1:4 ratio of herb to alcohol. If your herbs start to float, your ratio is good. Allow them to settle, and add a little more alcohol until the mixture is fully saturated. 

Prepare the ingredients

Fill the mason jar with the herbs/plants/spices

Add the alcohol or alcohol substitute  (If using apple cider vinegar as your base, you will need to take the additional step of laying wax paper on top of the jar lid)

Keep in a cool, dark place for a month (some may require refrigeration, and that will be noted) 

Shake twice daily 

After 1 month, strain the herbal matter from the liquid into the second jar using a cheesecloth (squeeze the cheesecloth to get out as much of the liquid as you can)

After straining, fill the remainder of the jar with distilled water–this dilutes the alcohol, allowing you to ingest it directly

Ready for use 

Herbs and Plants for Health Tinctures and Tonics 

Many of these will not taste good, but will work:

Alfalfa: Energy booster, laxative, cleanser (avoid taking with medications that slow blood clotting or suppress the immune system and with birth-control pills) 

Allspice: Stimulant; eases indigestion, colds, coughs; reduces hives and swelling (avoid taking with medications that slow blood clotting)

Aloe Vera Juice (liquid): Soothes the skin, antiseptic (external use only)

Angelica (fruit or seeds): Eases indigestion, gas, gout; balances nervous system (do NOT use if you are diabetic)

Bay Leaf: Eases indigestion, coughs, colds, fevers (do NOT take with any narcotics or sedatives) 

Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi): Antiseptic, eases symptoms of urinary tract infections (do NOT use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or if you have stomach irritation or kidney disease; avoid taking with lithium) 

Bergamot: Soothes colds, fevers, coughs, nausea, indigestion, menstrual cramps (avoid taking with photosensitizing medications) 

Black-Eyed Susan: Soothes swelling, back pain, earaches; immune booster

Black Peppercorn: Anti-fungal, heals ulcers, relieves arthritis

Burdock Root: Detoxifying, soothes colds and skin issues (avoid taking with medications that slow blood clotting)

Cedar (freshly dried leafy twigs): Soothes gout, naturally antiviral, boosts immune system (may cause drowsiness, avoid if on sedatives)

Clover (red): Soothes coughs, colds, bronchitis (avoid taking with medications that slow blood clotting and with tamoxifen; may decrease effectiveness of birth control pulls and medications that are changed by the liver)

Cloves: Soothes nausea and indigestion; antiseptic, expectorant (avoid taking with medications that slow blood clotting)

Comfrey Leaf: Ease arthritis, rheumatism, coughs, colds, diarrhea, asthma; antibacterial (do NOT take with medications that can harm the liver)

Coriander Seeds: Aids in digestion; aphrodisiac; boosts immune system

Cramp Bark: Eases arthritis, rheumatism, menstrual cramps

Echinacea: Eases colds, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, boosts immune system (interacts with various medications, discuss usage with your health care practitioner before taking)

Garlic: Antiseptic; eases atherosclerosis, rheumatism, ear infections, symptoms of urinary tract infections; supports healthy cholesterol; helps lower blood pressure; boosts immune system; expectorant; reduces risks of colon, rectal, and prostate cancers (do NOT take with isoniazid, medication used for HIV/AIDS, or medications used to slow blood-clotting) 

Goldenseal (roots and leaves): Aids digestion; eases colds, hay fever, menstrual cramps (avoid taking with medications that are changed by the liver)

Horseradish: Antiseptic; antibacterial; expectorant; soothes flu, colds, coughs, symptoms of urinary tract infections; diuretic; appetite stimulant (avoid taking with thyroid medications)

Hyssop: Soothes colds, fevers, sore throats, asthma, rheumatism, indigestion; expectorant

Lemon: Boosts immune system, helps prevent kidney stones, eases indigestion and constipation, relieves toothaches

Lemongrass: Supports healthy cholesterol; antibacterial; detoxifies; relieves constipation, nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, coughs, colds, fevers, anxiety, stress, fatigue; boosts immune system

Mugwort: Eases menstrual cramps, stomach cramps, fevers, colds (do NOT take if pregnant) 

Mullein: Relieves asthma, coughs, colds, diarrhea, hemorrhoids; expectorant; diuretic

Nutmeg: Stimulates digestive system; relieves diarrhea, nausea, anxiety (avoid taking with medications that are changed by the liver) 

Orange: Lowers blood pressure, reduces cholesterol, relieves arthritis and anxiety, stabilizes mood, boosts immune system; laxative (do NOT take with celiprolol, ivermectin, or pravastatin) 

Onion: Helps lower systolic blood pressure, eases colds; antiseptic (avoid taking with medications that slow blood clotting)

Skullcap: Eases headaches, stress, menstrual tension, insomnia, anxiety, sedative

Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory, reduces cholesterol (avoid taking with medications that slow blood clotting)

Valerian Root: Eases insomnia (do NOT take with alcohol, sedatives, or anti anxiety medications) 

Witch Hazel Bark: Relieves pain, diarrhea, colds, fevers, ulcers, colitis; antiseptic

Wormwood: Eases indigestion and stomach disorders; aphrodisiac (avoid taking with anticonvulsant medications)

Yarrow: Antiseptic, relieves pain, hay fever, colds, fevers, menstrual cramps (do NOT take with medications that slow blood clotting, avoid taking with lithium or sedatives)

Yellow Dock: Laxative; reduces anemia, relieves fatigue, aids digestive system (do NOT take with digoxin, diuretic medications, or medications that slow blood clotting)

For tincture recipes, there are many books and sites that can be used for reference. 

Magickal Tinctures

When making a tincture for use magickally and spiritually, shake the tincture two times a day to direct your energy into the jar and activate the magick within the herbs. 

Tincture-Charging Spell

Materials: 

1 green candle (herb spirits) 

1 white candle (spirit and magick)

1 candle to charge the tincture (color depends on spell)

1 mixing bowl 

Herbs and alcohol for the tincture (or alcohol substitute) 

2 Mason jars

Cheese cloth 

Ritual:

Place the three candles in a triangle on your altar or workspace. The white candle should be the top of the triangle (facing away from you to direct the energy out into the universe). The green and other candle form the base

Place the bowl at the center of the altar, and place your containers of herbs and alcohol on the floor

Light the white candle while stating: “For the power of spirit”

Light the green candle while stating: “For the herbal spirits”

Light the colored candle for your need, and state your need 

Place an herb in the bowl, state a thank-you blessing to the herb, and explain why you are using that herb. Repeat for each herb, and as you add each herb, stir the mixture of herbs clockwise for increasing or bringing something to you and counterclockwise if you are trying to remove or decrease something in your life

Once you have mixed all the herbs in the bowl, hold your hands over the mixture and state your intent

Visualize a light coming out of your hands for that need (red for love and passion or power; green for money, success, growth and fertility; blue for healing; yellow for success; etc)

Pour the mixture into one of the mason jars and add the alcohol (do this at a safe distance form the lit candles)

Place the lid on the jar

Remove the mixing bowl from the alter and put the mason jar with the tincture blend in its place, in the center of your candles. Keep the mason jar there until the candles have finished burning

Shake the tincture, focusing your mental, emotional, and physical energy into the jar. As you shake, chant: “I can upon the powers green, Release the powers unseen. Herbs awakened on this day, Blessings in this tincture stay.” 

Shake the jar twice daily for one month, each time visualizing the need behind the tincture

Once the month has passed, strain the mixture into the second jar using the cheesecloth. 

Now the tincture is ready to be used in magickal work

Herbs for Magickal Tinctures

For magickal uses, the following herbs, spices, and plants are only for external use in tincture blends:

Angelica Leaf: Angel work, protection, removing hexes, exorcism, health, meditation, divination 

Alfalfa: Money attraction (drawing money to you), prosperity, protection

Allspice: Money, luck, healing

Aloe Vera: Protection, peace in the afterlife, prosperity, success, love

Bay Leaf: Protection, purification, enhancing psychic powers, strength

Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi): Victory, protection, money, power, strength

Bergamot: Money, clarity

Black-Eyed Susan: Cleansing, releasing, grounding, integration, mediumship, connecting with the dead

Black Peppercorn: Protection, exorcism 

Burdock Root: Protection, uncrossing (removing hexes or curses)

Cedar: Healing, purification, money, protection

Clover: Protection, money, fidelity, love, exorcism, success

Cloves: Enhancing psychic powers, astral travel, protection, exorcism, love

Comfrey Leaf: Money, safe travel, protection

Coriander Seeds: Love, health, healing, lust, fidelity

Cramp Bark: Protection, luck

Echinacea: Strengthening spells, offerings to spirits

Garlic: Protection, exorcism, lust, antitheft

Goldenseal: Healing, money

Horseradish: Purification, exorcism

Hyssop: Purification, protection, cleansing

Lemon: Purification, love, friendship, justice

Lemongrass: Repelling snakes, lust, enhancing psychic powers

Mugwort: Strength, psychic powers, protection, prophetic dreams, astral projection

Mullein: Courage, protection, love, divination, exorcism

Nutmeg: Gambling luck, money, fidelity, prosperity, luck

Orange: Love, divination, luck, money

Saint John’s Wort: Health, protection, strength, love, divination, happiness

Skullcap: Love, fidelity, peace

Turmeric: Purification

Valerian Root: Purification, cleansing, peace, love, protection, breaking hexes and curses 

Wormwood: Summoning spirits, working with the dead, enhancing psychic power, protection, love, prophesizing, breaking hexes and curses

Witch Hazel: Protection, chasteness (less likely to give into temptation and sexual desire)

Yarrow: Psychic development, courage, love, exorcism, protection

Yellow Dock: Money attraction, customer attraction, love attraction 

Source

Robbins, Shawn, and Bedell, Charity. The Good Witch’s Guide. New York: Sterling Ethos, 2017. Print.

[afrocentric-divination]

What's the difference between hoodoo, voodoo, and rootwork? I'm kind of a beginner witch and am researching all I can about the different kinds of witchcraft, even the ones I don't practice. But all three get lumped together in everything I read. Are they interchangeable? What even is the correct spelling of "voodoo"? And can you recommend some good places to start researching. The last thing I want is to disrespect anybody!

From an answered ask:

They’re related, but not the same thing. Hoodoo is just an umbrella term for a bunch of other practices that originated in the Western part of Africa. It’s considered just folk magic, not a religion. Southerns of the US practice this, especially Christians.

Voodoo has 2 branches: Louisiana Voodoo, and Haitian Voodoo [Should have been spelled Vodou. You’ll see why later]. It is considered a religion. The only difference really between the 2 is the ritual order (Louisiana Voodoo doesn’t have much of it.) Voodoo is a combination of religion and folk magic (and if you know anything about the history of Voodoo and where is came from, you should know why that is).

Rootwork is just that. Working with roots and flora. Of course, in the past, you used the local plants in your area and today, its much easier to get roots from other places in the world.  

Rootwork and hoodoo are actually interchangeable. Of course, with these definitions they don’t look like it. But if you were to use both words interchangeably to a hoodoo practitioner they most likely wouldn’t bat an eye. And to be a little bit more specific, you use rootwork in hoodoo as it is one of the practices used in hoodoo.

You can also use rootwork in voodoo, but rootwork does not equal voodoo. And hoodoo does not equal voodoo. So~

Hoodoo= Rootwork

Hoodoo ≠ Voodoo

Rootwork ≠ Voodoo

Spelling is actually important to know. I think it doesn’t get talk about a lot in the community except for a random tumblr post or blog post floating about saying how that person hates it when people always spell it one way and dont know the other ways. And why theyre used.

(Correct me if I’m wrong anyone) ‘Voodoo’ is not only the mainstream version of the spelling but usually refers to Southern Voodoo or Louisiana Voodoo. ‘Voodoo’ is actually seen as derogatory and wrong to some in Haiti which brings me to the other way spelling it. ‘Vodou’ (or ‘Vodoun’, ‘Vodun’, ‘Vodu’ and sometimes ‘Vudu’) usually refers to Haitian Vodou. You’re going to see the different spellings used all the time. But know that when Someone is saying ‘Vodou’ they are mostly talking about Haitian Vodou and when people say ‘voodoo’ theyre either lumping all voodoo together or theyre talking about American Voodoo. And, all Voodoo came from Coastal West Africa (From Nigera to Ghana).

Also, when it comes to researching, you’re not going to get much when it comes to Voodoo since information is passed by word of mouth. Hoodoo on the other hand is everywhere on the internet. A quick google search and a quick YT search will get you so much. 

Quick note though, If you see anything related to LuckyMojo, take it with a grain of salt. The owner of the website is a bully, and pretty much infiltrated and made money from a community that was never hers.

[artfromthefuture]

Benin Egun.jpg by Toby Adamson Via Flickr: Portrait of manifestation of an Egun - a voodoo ancestor spirit in Sakete, Benin. West Africa. 2005. ©Toby Adamson/Axiom

[how-far-do-i-conjure]

How to respectfully reach out to and work with another culture’s magical practices and Deities

Don’t.

At all.

Leave that shit alone.

Stay in your lane.

[divinemoon-deactivated20210629]

Understanding Vodou for Beginners: F.A.Q.

Is Vodou evil?

The simple answer to this is no. There are evil people in every religion and practice, but Vodou itself is not an evil religion at all. Throughout the years, Vodou has gained a bad reputation due to Hollywood movies(one of the first being the film “White Zombi” which came out in the 1930’s).

Does Vodou only permit certain people?

Vodou has no predjudice against people of any race, gender, sexual orientation, ailment, physical condition, or any other factor that can be used to discriminate. Although Vodou is not meant for everyone, the Lwa do not discriminate.

Do you have to be initiated to be a part of Vodou?

Initiation is not necessary to be a Vodouisant, the non-initiated community make up almost more than 60% of Vodou itself. Initiation in Vodou can be quite costly, depending on the Sosyete as well as the initiation itself. However, the Lwa do not require you to be initiated to serve them.

Is Vodou a practice?

Vodou is often confused as a practice and at times, even the same thing as Hoodoo. Vodou is a religion from Haiti, whose origins come from different parts of Africa including Nigeria and the Congo. It is considered an African Traditional Religion and came from West African Vodun. The religion being practiced chiefly in Haiti and venerated by a large community. Vodou has a magical system intertwined within in it, but in itself is a religion.

Recommended Reading on Vodou:

Divine Horsemen: The Living Gods of Haiti

Why animal sacrifice?

In a society where meat is predominantly eaten, animals are considered food and a religion which arises from the Congo; animal sacrifice is not about the death of the animal but rather the offering of the life-giving energy of that animal to Lwa. As we eat, they must eat. The animal is usually cooked and eaten by the community afterwards; nothing is wasted.

Can Vodou be considered Monotheistic?

Vodou is considered to be a monotheistic religion, as the only one supreme creator is Bondye. God is seen as distant and not readily accessible to us, often considered to be “too busy”. We listen about God and we worship God, however we do not see God. The belief system can be seen in a Roman Catholic way to some aspects, Bondye being the superior creator and the Lwa being the Saints.

The Lwa are readily accessible to us, we serve Lwa and in return they serve us. They confer upon us the physical well being and material blessings.

Is Voodoo and Vodou the same thing?

Vodou and Voodoo are not the same thing, although one can consider them to be two sides of a single coin. Voodoo is what Vodou became when taken into New Orleans, becoming a more creolized version. The main difference being that Voodoo puts great emphasis into worshipping Danbalah. Vodou is the “original” religion you could say that formed in Haiti.

Artwork of Lwa Ezili Danto

Can anyone enter Vodou?

This is a question that will bring controversy among many people but simply has one answer, No. Not everyone can enter Vodou, the reason being that Lwa will simply not work with everyone. You see, you cannot just come into Vodou and decide to work with any Lwa of your choosing simply because they attract you. If you do this, then the Lwa will either not put any attention to you or things could go badly.

Can you know this through a dream or intuition?

There are many people that have stated to dream of Lwa asking them to work with them and this is good, Dreams are very important in Vodou. However, the only way to be completely certain of this is through a reading with a initiated Mambo or Houngan of the religion. Why is this so important? Because even if you do get a “feeling” or dream of a Lwa, you are not completely sure if Lwa actually wants to work with you. The Reading will tell you if you are meant to be in Vodou, which Lwa are interested in working with you, and other key points in your path when it comes to Vodou.

If you do have any path in Vodou and no Lwa wishes to work with you, then I would recommend you to simply step away. It could be that it is not your time to enter the religion or you are simply not meant to be in Vodou. This is not something to be angry about, simply accept it and move on.

Another book I’d recommend:

Haitian Vodou: An Introduction to Haiti’s Indigenous Spiritual Tradition

Is Vodou the right path for me?

After figuring out whether Lwa do want to work with you, the comes whether you find Vodou to be the right path for you to partake in. This is a personal question you would need to ask yourself, Vodou becomes part of one’s daily lifestyle and will represent commitment. Are you ready for this type of commitment? This is something you need to ask yourself, especially if you are a person that likes to change path often. When your in with Lwa, you are in for the long run. I would suggest maybe visiting a Sosyete or Vodou community in your area to see if this is the right path for you, remember: Reading about it is very different from seeing it in front of you.

[witchydouchebag]

Be careful and make sure you don’t appropriate any culture traditions. All these black religions and traditions are no game at all.

[divinemoon-deactivated20210629]

Understanding Vodou for Beginners: F.A.Q.

Is Vodou evil?

The simple answer to this is no. There are evil people in every religion and practice, but Vodou itself is not an evil religion at all. Throughout the years, Vodou has gained a bad reputation due to Hollywood movies(one of the first being the film “White Zombi” which came out in the 1930’s).

Does Vodou only permit certain people?

Vodou has no predjudice against people of any race, gender, sexual orientation, ailment, physical condition, or any other factor that can be used to discriminate. Although Vodou is not meant for everyone, the Lwa do not discriminate.

Do you have to be initiated to be a part of Vodou?

Initiation is not necessary to be a Vodouisant, the non-initiated community make up almost more than 60% of Vodou itself. Initiation in Vodou can be quite costly, depending on the Sosyete as well as the initiation itself. However, the Lwa do not require you to be initiated to serve them.

Is Vodou a practice?

Vodou is often confused as a practice and at times, even the same thing as Hoodoo. Vodou is a religion from Haiti, whose origins come from different parts of Africa including Nigeria and the Congo. It is considered an African Traditional Religion and came from West African Vodun. The religion being practiced chiefly in Haiti and venerated by a large community. Vodou has a magical system intertwined within in it, but in itself is a religion.

Recommended Reading on Vodou:

Divine Horsemen: The Living Gods of Haiti

Why animal sacrifice?

In a society where meat is predominantly eaten, animals are considered food and a religion which arises from the Congo; animal sacrifice is not about the death of the animal but rather the offering of the life-giving energy of that animal to Lwa. As we eat, they must eat. The animal is usually cooked and eaten by the community afterwards; nothing is wasted.

Can Vodou be considered Monotheistic?

Vodou is considered to be a monotheistic religion, as the only one supreme creator is Bondye. God is seen as distant and not readily accessible to us, often considered to be “too busy”. We listen about God and we worship God, however we do not see God. The belief system can be seen in a Roman Catholic way to some aspects, Bondye being the superior creator and the Lwa being the Saints.

The Lwa are readily accessible to us, we serve Lwa and in return they serve us. They confer upon us the physical well being and material blessings.

Is Voodoo and Vodou the same thing?

Vodou and Voodoo are not the same thing, although one can consider them to be two sides of a single coin. Voodoo is what Vodou became when taken into New Orleans, becoming a more creolized version. The main difference being that Voodoo puts great emphasis into worshipping Danbalah. Vodou is the “original” religion you could say that formed in Haiti.

Artwork of Lwa Ezili Danto

Can anyone enter Vodou?

This is a question that will bring controversy among many people but simply has one answer, No. Not everyone can enter Vodou, the reason being that Lwa will simply not work with everyone. You see, you cannot just come into Vodou and decide to work with any Lwa of your choosing simply because they attract you. If you do this, then the Lwa will either not put any attention to you or things could go badly.

Can you know this through a dream or intuition?

There are many people that have stated to dream of Lwa asking them to work with them and this is good, Dreams are very important in Vodou. However, the only way to be completely certain of this is through a reading with a initiated Mambo or Houngan of the religion. Why is this so important? Because even if you do get a “feeling” or dream of a Lwa, you are not completely sure if Lwa actually wants to work with you. The Reading will tell you if you are meant to be in Vodou, which Lwa are interested in working with you, and other key points in your path when it comes to Vodou.

If you do have any path in Vodou and no Lwa wishes to work with you, then I would recommend you to simply step away. It could be that it is not your time to enter the religion or you are simply not meant to be in Vodou. This is not something to be angry about, simply accept it and move on.

Another book I’d recommend:

Haitian Vodou: An Introduction to Haiti’s Indigenous Spiritual Tradition

Is Vodou the right path for me?

After figuring out whether Lwa do want to work with you, the comes whether you find Vodou to be the right path for you to partake in. This is a personal question you would need to ask yourself, Vodou becomes part of one’s daily lifestyle and will represent commitment. Are you ready for this type of commitment? This is something you need to ask yourself, especially if you are a person that likes to change path often. When your in with Lwa, you are in for the long run. I would suggest maybe visiting a Sosyete or Vodou community in your area to see if this is the right path for you, remember: Reading about it is very different from seeing it in front of you.

[draggedthruthe-yard]

hey white ppl this doesnt mean u should try to initiate urself. vodou came from the slaves trying to hide from their oppressors. dont weasel ur way into our shit. let us have something exclusively for us for fucking once.

[cavinmorrisgallery]

African Vodun. Art, Psychology, and Power (Chicago, 1995) was the most complete English-language account of African vodun objects when it was published, based on a summer of fieldwork in Abomey, Benin and nearby towns. It discusses the religious artifacts of the Fon people and their neighbors in Benin and Togo, called bocio or bocheaw(empowered bodies) and the associated vodun beliefs and practices. Blier says the bocio are mainly “counter aesthetic”, the opposite of what the Fon would consider pleasing or beautiful. They are designed to attract and hold powerful forces through which the owner can achieve goals such as controlling others, attaining well-being, harming enemies or protecting against destructive forces sent out by enemies. 

Typically the bocio are wood carvings enhanced with medicines that are packed inside them or attached in packets, and with paint and objects such as horns, beads or chains. Often they are bound, clothed or pegged to hold in the magical powers. The bocio objects are linked to gods, forest spirits or the dead, or to animals or plants that have properties associated with these beings.[7]Bocio are activated or empowered by assemblage, speech, saliva, heat in the form of pepper and alcohol, knotting and offering to the higher power or deity. Some have pointed bases so they can be driven into the earth, the source of power for the trickster deity Legba. These can only be activated once. Others may have plinth bases and may be activated more than once.[8]

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vodun_art

[kemetic-dreams]

[arjuna-vallabha]

Dancers at Vodun Festival, Ouidah, Benin

[kemetic-dreams]

[arjuna-vallabha]

Obaluauê /Azawani vodun dances at Kwe Cejá Dan Lissá, a Jeje Mahi temple, Campinas, Brazil