Wicca 101: Introduction to Herbalism (Pt. 1)

Since the dawn of time, mankind has used herbs and plants in their life for a wide variety of purposes. They have fed us, healed us, delighted us, and assisted in magical efforts. The infamous magic potions of Witches in folk lore and even modern fiction all have their basis in herbalism.

Many books have been written discussing the ancient associations of herbs and their traditional uses. It is important to cross reference the traditional uses with modern medicine and science to ensure that one is not accidentally ingesting or using something quite harmful. To prevent this, it is good to obtain copies of field guides to edible plants and herbs. These valuable books help one to make sure that they are collecting the correct herb from the wild or cultivating something that is safe in their kitchen garden.

If you are seeking in the wild for your herbs, it is also important to make sure that you are collecting them where they have grown in a healthy environment. Any and all toxins that are in the soil or water that contributed to the growth of the plant will be absorbed into the plant itself. This is why many Witches and amature herbalists will grow their own herbs.

A kitchen garden is an exceptionally useful garden for any Witch interested in herbalism. Everything that you grow in your garden has a magical affinity or use. Herbs grown for seasoning have magical associations that are quite easily researched. Vegetables not only are useful in the diet for sustanence but also can be used medicinally in several cases. It is possible to grow flowers that are edible in addition to being attractive, thus broadening the possiblities for use.

Apartment dwellers who do not have access to a sizeable plot where they can put in their very own vegetable and herb garden need not fear. It is possible to have the same abundance and delightful results via container gardening. Container gardening need not be restricted to outdoors. It is possible to have an excellent container garden in the home. This serves to increase the accessibility one may have to their fresh herbs. Under the correct growing conditions, it is possible to have fresh herbs all year round, not just during the growing season.

With a little research, care, and attention to detail, it is possible for any Witch to have access to fresh herbs. If this is not possible, however, the use of dried herbs is equally possible. There are many suppliers available via the internet. Dried herbs can broaden the various options one has with their magical efforts as well as in their cooking.

Caution is advisable, however, because you do not have the same level of control over the growing and preserving of the herbs. Make sure that the dealer you work with is reputable. Organically grown herbs are generally considered superior to others. This, however, makes them more expensive. What ever method you choose for your obtaining herbs for magic, take care to store them properly and be certain as to what their effect upon the body is before ingesting them.