The Pittsburgh Black Hat Society Network

2012-02-03T01:43:00.000-08:00

The ever growing ...

The Pittsburgh Black Hat Society Network...

meetup site join us...

http://www.meetup.com/The-Pittsburgh-Black-Hat-Society/

facebook...

http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/The-Pittsburgh-Black-Hat-Society-Network/119300551432076

Blogtalk Radio

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/show.aspx?&utm_source=remail&utm_medium=listener&userurl=the-pgh-black-hat-society&year=2011&month=02&day=27&url=the-black-hat-society-network

Una Biologicals

proud sponsor of

The Pittsburgh Black Hat Society & Witches Ball

http://www.unabiologicals.com/

2012-02-02T22:33:00.000-08:00

Details Coming Check out The Witches Ball bloghttp://paganunitypittsburgh.blogspot.com/

"Let's Keep The Momentum"

2011-02-27T13:05:00.000-08:00

The Pittsburgh Black Hat Society Network
“Please” sign up at
http://www.meetup.com/The-Pittsburgh-Black-Hat-Society/
So much more to come,from Open Rituals to Open Tea & Coffee Socials...
We do ask for a minimal membership fee ( $12.00 yearly = $1.00 month ) but if you like to donate to help further the cause, bringing more events to the general public this cost money, and we raise this money through private donations, and people who contribute at gatherings. I understand some of us cannot afford much so this is on a volunteer basis. Many of our events will be either free or for a small fee to cover cost ( like the Witches Ball, but if you purchase a ticket to the Witches Ball, membership fees are waived for the year )...
We will be holding small gatherings, socials to get to know more Pagans, Witches & Sundry folk, at these gathering from time to time we will raffle off items to raise money...
I look forward to seeing all the Black Hat's of Pittsburgh come together to celebrate the seasons with us...
Brightest of Blessing

"Or"
Make money orders out to Ms.Matthews...

No uniform required for Black Hat Society

2011-02-25T20:35:00.000-08:00

By: Larissa Gula / Staff Writer

Je’Amour Matthews grew up in a Roman Catholic household, but all the while her aunts were teaching her Italian Stregheria — a form of witchcraft,

Matthews knew she preferred the nature-based religion where followers worship nature personified in gods and goddesses. She protested going to church on Sundays. Once during a service she even dipped her hand into holy water and began screaming about how the water supposedly burnt her hand.

Eventually Matthews stopped going to church altogether and became a full-time self-identified witch. As a witch, the 52-year-old does not wear black robes, opting instead for jeans and T-shirts. And she certainly doesn’t carry a wand, cast spells or make love potions.

In response to these stereotypes about practicing witches, Matthews organized the Pittsburgh Black Hat Society in 2009 to act as a social support network for witches and neo-pagans. The Society is a chapter in the larger Black Hat Society Network, which has several chapters across the country. The local group today has 200 members of different ages, genders and ethnicities. Members might identify as Wiccan, Shamanistic, Druid, Celtic, Norse or as practitioners of any of a number of other neo-pagan belief systems. Since the word “neo-pagan” can be used to describe any non-monotheistic religion, members can practice one or a combination of thousands of these beliefs, which are often referred to as “paths.”

Matthews and other Black Hat members are hardly alone in their faith. According to a 2008 American Religious Identification Survey, witchcraft, or Wicca, and other earth-based neo-pagan practices have grown in popularity in the United States in the last several years. Nearly 2.8 million people identified with dozens of new religious movements labeling themselves Wiccan, pagan and so forth.

The Black Hat Society does not worship or attend ceremonies together, but instead acts as a social network for people with similar interests. It gives members a place to feel at home even if many people are, as Matthews says, “in the broom closet” about their beliefs. The organization also invites and even encourages members of the general public to come and learn more about some of these nature-based faiths.

“The community in Pittsburgh needed this,” Matthews said. “There is not a lot of outreach for those in pagan faiths and practices. Many people more or less practiced in [solitude] for years.”

Neo-Pagan Practices

A pet peeve of Matthews’ is being asked whether she dresses like a witch from “Harry Potter” when practicing witchcraft. In reality, when preparing to use her altar while mixing herbs or reading spells, Matthews stays in her T-shirt and jeans.

An incense holder, jewelry from her parents, a chalice, crystals and some of her favorite photos sit around the altar, Matthews said. She also keeps a journal of spells and recipes used during her practice — a common habit of practicing witches wishing to keep a chronicle of their faiths.

Matthews explained that in her practices she simply forms “intentions,” which are similar to prayers. They’re a form of wishes for possible outcomes and events in the future.

At the same time, she tries to channel energy into the Earth, because a key part of her practice is thanking the planet she lives on for its blessings and gifts.

“I think most people don’t understand that this is a nature faith,” Matthews said. “We feel responsible for the world around us and for the ground we walk on.”

Black Hat Society members’ backgrounds are as eclectic as their practices. In addition to her Italian witchcraft beliefs, Matthews has adopted a few ideas into her practice from several Asian religions, including Buddhism.

And this is OK, because one of the joys of neo-paganism is that it’s flexible by definition, organization member Francine Brashier, 47, said. She explained that there are literally thousands of combinations of paths to combine into a personal belief system that evolves over time.

This flexibility probably holds a very strong appeal for most practicing neo-pagans, Daniel Burston, associate professor and chair of the psychology department at Duquesne University, said. Neo-pagan practices don’t specify a single god or goddess, allowing practitioners flexibility in which deities they choose to worship.

“Some people may go to an Asian religion, and others go to systems like Wicca,” he said.

And according to the Pew Research Center, this is a common trend for the one-third of Americans who dabble in multiple religions. The study said that despite the overwhelming Christian majority in the United States, it’s common to find mainstream faiths that integrate aspects of other religions, such as belief in reincarnation.

It isn’t surprising that Matthews continued to practice one of the faiths she was taught as a child, according to Kristen Tobey, a visiting professor at Pitt’s Department of Religious Studies. She said that Pew’s surveys have also found that though half of America’s adults change religious practices, many others remain within their childhood religion and some try new beliefs before returning to their original practices.

Matthews is only one neo-pagan who can relate to this statement. Of course, the backgrounds of Black Hat members are extremely diverse. Despite this, the group bonds over its members common hobbies and beliefs asneo-pagans and witches.

The Rules

Members of the Black Hat Society worked hard to create a strong and supportive community for practicing witches in Pittsburgh, Brashier said. She said she herself grew up in a neo-paganist household.

“To be in this group, you don’t have to believe in what I or anyone else believes in,” Brashier said. “But while we don’t all share the same philosophies or faiths or beliefs, we share a togetherness. We rely on the connections we form.”

Brashier joined the group after seeing an ad for one of the group’s informal coffee dates on Craigslist. Though members use social media to stay in touch, they also meet in person once or twice every month to gossip over coffee or attend an educational lecture. Meetings are informal and shift locations to try to include as many people in different neighborhoods as possible. Members simply attend when and where they can — no robes required.

Although the group discusses different practices and philosophies, every individual has a different faith and practice. Some use altars; others do not. Some might go through worshipping rituals daily, and others might not. Some worship different gods and goddesses than others.

Brashier loves that she “doesn’t need to fit in a mold” while with friends from the Black Hat Society. She also finds the group a relaxing escape from misconceptions about her practice.

“It gives us a place to go where we don’t need to explain to people, ‘No, we don’t worship the devil, and we don’t sacrifice children,’” she said. “Those don’t even agree with our practices.” Brashier remains extremely private about her practice and would not comment on how she practices her faith.

Matthews said that, though beliefs vary, true witches follow two ethical codes. There’s the Wiccan Rede, which says that practitioners can do what they will, but harm no one. Then there’s the Three-Fold Law, which says any evil one does will return to the doer three times over.

“Most [witches] believe in healing and giving of self to community,” she said.

But despite this, many group memebers still face stigmatism. Burston said witches face less adversity than they once did, but suspicion of their practices remains. Matthews has actually had people, who she declined to name, refuse to sell or rent to the Black Hat Society and its members when they found out they were practicing witches and Wiccans.

Though there might be misconceptions about witches so extreme (like the common misconception that they worshipt the devil) that some members haven’t even admitted to their families they practice a neo-pagan faith, Tobey believes that the local network provides most of the necessary support these people need.

“If people have a strong sense of in-group elsewhere, it becomes easier to justify hiding from or being in direct conflict in the outside world,” she said. “They have somewhere else they belong. The new group provides the support and legitimating they’re not getting elsewhere.”

Tobey said that there are many reasons people would continue to practice a “fringe religion,” from rebellion against restrictive religions to the social dynamics of other faiths. In fact, Tobey thinks social interactions are a primary reason some people look for alternative faiths.

“People may explicitly disagree with the teaching of one faith, or they may relate more to the worship style or social structure of other groups,” she said. “Sometimes people just find something else that appeals to one of many aspects in their individual personality.”

Going to the Ball

Currently, the Black Hat Society Network is preparing for the annual celebration of Samhain, the witchs’ holiest holiday, which celebrated in multiple faiths and originated as a Gaelic harvest festival. Members have spent six months planning the event, which is set to take place at the The Pittsburgh Irish Center in Squirrel Hill on Nov. 5 beginning at 6 p.m., Matthews said.

The ball will feature musicians, dancers and artisan booths. The public is welcome to call and purchase tickets, but there are rules.

“We actually begin to joke before the ball, don’t dress up as a vampire, don’t come with green skin or moles, or other stereotypical things,” Brashier said. “Things like that promote the stereotype that you want to get away from.”

And there will not be any stripping naked at midnight. Though there are no lectures, the group wants to educate people.

“If we could, we’d love to create more community with a wave of our hands,” Brashier said. “We want people to be patient, and accepting.”

http://pittnews.com/newsstory/no-uniform-required-for-black-hat-society/

I Conserve Pennsylvania

2010-05-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

Pennsylvania is the environment you live in then let's make this a place were our Gaia can live in splendor. There is a wealth of information and a news letter you can sign up at I Conserve Pennsylvania, this is also a sight were you can find information on native plants of Pennsylvania. "So Please" sign up at their site...

http://www.iconservepa.org/

Arbor Day Foundation

2010-05-05T05:59:00.000-07:00

I say all Witches & non Witches should use this valuable resource. I love the fact they have publication and instructional video to teach people about tree's & wild life...

http://www.arborday.org/index.cfm

The Eastern White Pine

2010-05-04T18:46:00.000-07:00

The eastern white pine has the distinction of being the tallest tree in eastern North America. There is a legend from long ago in which there were warring times among the Mohawks and their neighboring tribes. The Mohawk Nation decided to put down their weapons once and for all. They buried their weapons beneath the white pine trees. From that time forward, peace grew through the white pine. An excerpt from The Legend of the Peacemaker in White Roots of Peace by Paul Wallace reads Peacemaker uprooted a white pine, exposing a deep cavern with a river at its bottom. He told warriors to cast weapons into this hole and the river carried the tools of war deep in the Earth. Replanting the white pine, the Peacemaker said, To bury the hatchet signifies the end of war, killing and violence. The Tree of Peace, Peacemaker explained, has four white roots extending to Earths four corners. Anyone who desires peace can follow the roots to their source and find shelter under The Great Tree. -----Eastern White Pine (Pinus Strobus) is a large pine native to Eastern North America, occurring from Newfoundland west to Minnesota and southeastern Manitoba, and south along the Appalachian Mountains to the northern edge of Georgia. It is occasionally known as White Pine, Northern White Pine, or Soft Pine. It is occasionally known as Weymouth Pine especially in Britain. In addition, this tree is known also to the Haudenosaunee Native Americans as the tree of Peace.
It is also medicinal. The inner bark and the needles are a rich source of Vitamin C. It has been estimated that a cupful of strong pine needle tea has more Vitamin C than the average lemon. The pine essential oil is classified as a middle note, that is, its energetic effect is neither stimulating nor sedating, but rather it works to modify imbalanced conditions. One of the healing associations of the white pine tree is resilience. In plant terminology, resilience is a measurement of a plants ability to tolerate conditions of adversity and return to a healthful state. Demonstrating resilience through challenging climatic circumstances, pines remind us of our own ability to weather climatic shifts and to continue to work to secure the well being of future generations through difficult times. The Trees of Resilience are highly valued medicinal by the Native Americans, Chinese, and European cultures, bringing qualities of clarity and peace.

Saint Patrick's Day

2010-03-06T08:51:00.000-08:00

"Doing my part to pass it on"...
Brightest of Blessing Je'Amour

Source: Satori

ST. PATRICK & THE DRUIDS OF IRELAND
By Flame RavenHawk

Patrick was a Christian priest whose job it was to convert the
population of Ireland to Christianity. The Druids, however, stood in his way. The Druids were very important people in Ireland at that time, and their symbol was the Snake of Wisdom. Druids could be priests of the old religion of Ireland, but there were also much more.

One part of the Druid class were the "Bards", whose job it was to remember all of the history of the people, as well as to record current events. Because the Irish Celts did not rely on a written language, everything had to be memorized. Bards were poets and musicians, and used music and poetry to help them remember their history exactly. Because of this, Bards were highly respected members of the Irish society. The Irish believed that history was very important, for if you didn't remember what had happened in the past, you couldn't safely plan for the future. Bards, therefore, held the future of the people in safekeeping.

Another important part of the Druidic class were the "Brehons". Brehons were the Judges and the Keepers of the Laws. The Celtic people had a highly complicated society, and with it, a highly developed set of laws. Brehons trained for many years to learn the laws of the people, so that whenever there was a dispute, the Brehon could Fairly decide the matter and make peace. The laws were there to make sure that everyone; man, woman, and child, were treated fairly and with respect. Because of the wisdom that the Brehons held, and
the knowledge of the laws of the society, they too, like the Bards, were held with much respect.

And, of course, there were the Druid Priests. This branch of the Druid set were the keepers of the knowledge of Earth and Spirits. It was their responsibility to learn the Spirit World, in order to keep people and Earth in harmony. Priests performed marriages and "baptisms", they were healers, and psychiatrists. The Priests were The wise grandparents to whom you could go with a problem. They were there to help you solve them, with the help of the Earth and the Spirit World.

Into this world of the Irish Celts entered a highly energetic and devoted Christian Priest named Patrick. Because he believed so strongly in the tenets of Christianity, he thought that anyone who was not Christian had to become one in order to be "saved". He came to Ireland to convert the Irish people to Christianity.

The Irish people at that time were happy and doing quite well
without Patrick and his ideas, but he was persistent. He noticed that the Druids were really the important people of the society. He thought that if he could convert the Druids to Christianity, the rest of the people would follow. Patrick's main problem was that the Druids were very comfortable with what they had already learned, and were not willing to change. Druids had spent their entire lives learning the ways of the people, and were the last people who were willing to change.

Although Patrick was not willing to abandon his vision of a
Christian Ireland, he was getting desperate. He knew that because the strength of the people rested with the Druids, he had to get rid of them in order to get the people to listen to him.

Patrick was not alone in his efforts. He had brought many people with him from Britain to establish the new religion. Patrick began to destroy the influence of the Druids by destroying the sacred sites of the people and building churches and monasteries where the Druids used to live and teach. Gradually, the might of the Druidic class was broken by a bitter campaign of attrition. Instead of hearing the teachings and advice of the Druids, the people began to
hear the teachings of Rome. Because the Druids were the only ones who were taught to remember the history, with the Druids dead and their influence broken, the history was forgotten.

Patrick won. By killing off the teachers and the wise ones, his own religion could be taught. For this mass conversion of a culture to Christianity, and for the killing of thousands of innocent people, Patrick was made a Saint by his church.

Today the story is told that Patrick is the patron Saint of Ireland because he "drove the snakes out". We now know that the "snakes" were the Druids. So although I love the Irish people and celebrate their Celtic heritage, I don't "celebrate" a day dedicated to the man called Patrick, Patron Saint of Ireland.

"Doing my part to pass it on"
Brightest of Blessing Je'Amour

Source: Satori

This seems to go 'round every year, so I thought even though I haven't seen it yet, I'd get a jump on it, LOL:

From: SeekingWolf

St. Patricks Day:

A day that St.Patrick chased the snakes out of Ireland. Well, the snakes were the
Pagans. And they weren't just chased out. They were executed; Men,
women and children. So, I've started a tradition with my coven and other friends.

On St. Patricks Day , all Pagans should wear something with a snake
on it. A t-shirt, necklace, ring, etc.... This is our way of saying that
the "snakes" are still here and that we are here to stay.

The Snake is a symbol of wisdom and free will. Which is why the
church wants to get rid of all Pagans. We believe in free will and
responsibility for our own actions. So, I am reaching out to all my
pagan friends to join me in this new tradition and to pass it on to
all other pagans you know. If we can get at least 1,000 people
wearing a snake this year, it would be a definite great start.

Please Pass this on. Thank You and Blessed Be. And May the Goddess
Kiss Your Brow and Bring Light into Your Darkness.

Respectfully
SeekingWolf

2010-01-01T00:21:00.000-08:00

"Big Time Welcome"

The Pittsburgh Black Hat Society Network

Gods and Goddesses of Hawaii

2009-12-30T20:17:00.000-08:00

Post of William R Bonnichsen on Dec 27, 2009

(we lovingly call the Eggman)

Hawaii's ancient beliefs contained gods and goddesses revered throughout all the Islands, as well as many locally important gods. To Westerners it seemed that the ancient Hawaiian gods were a mix of Christian and ancient Roman and Greek gods, though by the time Missionaries arrived in the Islands from New England in the USA, Hawaii's royal rulers had officially cast the ancient Hawaiian religious system aside.For centuries the belief system in Hawaii was enforced by priests (kahunas) and the notion of chief and priest privilege called "kapu," which simply meant "do this or die," ruled secular and religious life in Hawaii. But in 1819 Prince Lilolilo, who had just been crowed Kamehameha II, broke the kapu by dining in public with his mother and other women of the royal court.All kapu were abolished, but they also destroyed Hawaii's temples (heiaus), relics and artifacts because kapu had been so inextricably intertwined with the Islands temples, priests and beliefs. The burning of the temples was urged by the high priest to Hawaii's royal family.However Hawaii's rich cultural heritage is still alive in the Islands, binding oral tradition, archeological science, history and the ecology of the Islands, and there are many historic sites around the Islands that can help visitors and natives better understand the history and the legacy of the ancient Hawaiians.And though all this talk of ancient gods may seem like ancient history, visitors to the volcanoes continually hear about tourists mailing back volcanic rocks and artifacts, originally taken as souvenirs from Kilauea, in order to appease Pele and end their streak of bad luck. Despite everything, the gods live on within their people. Which is the reason I ask for their blessing before I do anything. Here's a list to help introduce you to Hawaii's ancient deities.

Major Dieties•

Kane - the creator•

Ku - the architect and maker of war•

Lono - god of peace and prosperity, wind and rain •

Kanaloa - god of the ocean.

Gods in the Realm of Death (Po)•

Akea - first Hawaiian king who founded a kingdom in the afterlife.•

Milu - suceeded Akea. •

Manua - supreme soverign of Po, the spirits of chiefs and priests live within him.

Celestial Dieties•

Kaonohiokala, dead chiefs are brought to him in the eyeball of the sun•

Kuahairo, Kaonohiokala's messenger•

Olopue, a god on Maui who brought the dead chiefs to Kaonohiokala

Pele - Goddess of the Volcano•

Pele had five brothers and eight sisters who did her bidding, among them:•

Kamooalii - King Moho, the god of steam.•

Keuakepo - god of rain of fire.•

Hiiakawawahilani - the cloud holder.•

Keoahikamakaua - the child of war.

Gods and Goddesses of the Natural World•

Laamaomao - god of winds, lives on Molokai.•

Hinakuluiau - goddess of rain.•

Mooaleo - a gnome who lives on Lanai.•

Kuula - god of fishermen - his wife is Hina.•

Ukanipo - the shark god of Hawaii.•

Moaalii - the shark god of Molokai and Oahu.•

Apukohai - shark god of Kauai.•

Haulili - god of speech.•

Koleamoku - god of the art of healing - patron of the kahunas.• Lakakane - god of the hula.•

Mokualii - god of canoe makers.•

Ulaulekeahi - god of distillers.

Gods and Goddesses of Arts and Professions•

Kalaipahoa - goddess who harms trees.•

Kuahana - god who kills men.•

Lie - goddess of the mountains.•

Kiha - a goddess of Maui.•

Uli - god of sorcerers.• Hiaka - a mountain god on Kauai.•

Ouli - god who could kill people if prayed to.•

Mahulu - names of gods in Lono's temples.•

Puea - a god worshipped in darkness.•

Kaluannuunohonionio - a god of a temple's sacrificial house.

"Post Gazette Article"

2009-11-04T00:49:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

"Post Gazette Article"

New local network welcomes witches, pagans and othersThursday, October 29, 2009

By Kathy Samudovsky

Bob Donaldson/Post-Gazette
Getting acquainted with Sue Arlott's cat, Jessie, are Je'Amour Matthews (left) and Lisa Slagel, members of the Black Hat Society Network, a group of practicing witches who gathered for an afternoon brunch at the Arlott home.Even as a child, Je'Amour P. Matthews knew her life path would not be mainstream.While staunch Roman Catholic parents were teaching her about that church, she said, some maternal aunts were secretly grooming her to be the family's next strega -- Italian for female witch. It made for an interesting childhood -- with memorable Sunday services."I was dragged to church relentlessly. Any time I could retaliate, I would," recalled Ms. Matthews, of North Braddock.
"Once when I was 9 or 10, I waited until the vestibule was absolutely packed and acted like I was going to bless myself. Then when I dipped my hand into the holy water, I let loose a roll of Alka-Seltzer and started to scream, 'It burns! It burns!' I was such a rotten child,' " she said.Today, Ms. Matthews, 49, said she is a modern-day witch and proud of it. She said she practices a traditional form of witchcraft called Italian Stregheria, a nature-based religion whose followers worship the forces of nature personified as gods and goddesses.In August, she organized the Pittsburgh Black Hat Society Network, an Internet-based social network intended to offer support, friendship and knowledge to solitary witches -- those who practice alone, not in covens-- pagans, neo-pagans and others.Members meet in their homes or at restaurants and discuss topics such as recipes, herbs, deities and metaphysics."I love the whole philosophy behind the Black Hat Society Network because, first off, it's like what you get with the Red Hat Society -- it's a social thing, it's fun and there aren't any group politics. We plan to hold potluck dinners, tea and coffee socials, maybe charity drives, things like that," Ms. Matthews said.Her organization is part of the Pennsylvania Black Hat Society Network, headquartered in Quakertown, Bucks County. The Pittsburgh group is the first independent chapter in the state.Jennifer Seitzer, founder of the Black Hat Society Network, said several other chapters exist throughout the United States. She's working to trademark the network's name to distinguish it from unrelated groups using the Black Hat Society moniker.The Pittsburgh chapter has more than 70 male and female members who follow Wiccan, Shamanistic, Druid, Celtic, Norse, eclectic and other pagan paths. Non-pagans who share interest in nature and earth-based energies are members, too.South Park hosts ballThe chapter's first public event, the Western Pennsylvania Witches Ball, will be from 6 p.m. Saturday to shortly after midnight at the Home Economics Building on Buffalo Drive in Allegheny County's South Park. The alcohol-free festival will celebrate Samhain (pronounced sow-in), the witches' holiest holiday. Midnight will mark the start of their New Year.Samhain, also called Day of the Dead or Halloween, is a time to remember and honor loved ones who have passed, Ms. Matthews said. For witches, it's a solemn and sacred day when they believe the thin veil between human and spirit worlds is lifted, allowing for communication.The ball will feature opening and closing rituals, music by an acoustic guitarist, vendors and more. The night will conclude with a spiral dance, an old pagan ritual symbolizing renewal. Participants hold hands to form a chain moving in spiral formation, Ms. Matthews said. Community members can participate or watch.About 50 percent of Pittsburgh Black Hat Society Network members are "still in the broom closet," Ms. Matthews said. Network member Bob Lardin, 63, of Pitcairn, a former ordained Catholic deacon, understands why."The worst thing I found about being a witch is you're seen as the devil or the anti-Christ by people who don't know anything about it. Ignorance is bliss, and we have a lot of happy people out there," he said.Reference books often still link witches with black witchcraft, the devil, hexes and doing harm, all which is "incorrect and misleading," Ms. Matthews stressed."Satanists are pagan or neo-pagan, but not witches," she said. "It goes against the grain of what witches practice in the first place. There are witches who do more dark craft, but they're not following what is natural to the core of the practice. They're the fringe element."True witches follow two ethical codes, she said. She called them:• The Wiccan Rede, which says that practitioners can do what they will but harm none.• The Three-Fold Law, which says any evil they do will return to them three times over."Witches are simple country folk who live off the land, honor the earth and respect nature," Ms. Matthews said. "Most believe in healing and giving of self to community."She said those who say they cast spells do so for protection, healing, rituals, to invoke positive energy and other reasons."A spell is nothing but focused intent," said Sue Arlott, 43, of McKees Rocks, who called herself a Wiccan-in-transition.Ms. Arlott, a ball organizer but not a network member, is among many who blame Hollywood for the pervasive negative stereotypes."First of all, we don't even believe in the devil; that's something Christianity thought up. Do I use a broom to travel? No, I take an airplane just like everyone else. We're not green, we don't have hooked noses and we don't have warts,'' Ms. Arlott said.Network member Lisa Slagel, 40, of Ross, who manages a rental car company, follows an eclectic path focused on a love of nature and animals."I'm about as normal as they come. I have a couple of witches' hats, but they're only for fun -- like sometimes, I'll vacuum in them," she said.People sometimes ridicule or distance themselves from Ms. Matthews once learning she calls herself a witch. But in her view, it's some organized religions that should be targeted.Lots of witches hereMr. Lardin said most people would be surprised to know how many witches are in the Pittsburgh region."There are oodles of different kinds, close to thousands," he said.In the Pittsburgh society network, members include lawyers, veterinarians, doctors, plumbers, farmers, horticulturists, nurses, dog groomers, psychologists and nutritionists. And the network is only one of a number of local witch and pagan organizations.According to a 2008 American Religious Identification Survey, conducted by Trinity College and released in March, witchcraft or Wicca and other earth-based pagan traditions are among the fastest growing religions in the United States. Nearly 2.8 million people now identify with dozens of new religious movements labeling themselves Wiccan, pagan and the like, the survey said."I think paganism and the craft are growing because people are just tired of the commercial, soul-less, cold, blighted culture they've been served up in their lifetime. They're looking for something more," Ms. Matthews said.Wicca, a common starting point for witches, is a legal religion in the United States, recognized by the government, private sector and military. The witches' pentagram is approved for display in military cemeteries. In witchcraft, points of the pentagram represent the five elements of life: earth, air, fire, water and spirit.Ms. Matthews said she's clairvoyant, has spirit guides, reads tarot cards and hugs trees but also loves camping, bike riding, a good book and reading foreign press."We're like everyone else, just maybe a little wiser in some ways," she said.Her altar is the center of her practice, with an incense holder, a symbolic cauldron, jewelry from each parent, a ritual knife called an Athame, a chalice, crystals and favorite photos.She wears her witch's hat and cloak in public when the mood strikes, and she has a homemade besom -- or broom -- for cleansing, not flying. The notion of a witch flying on a broom referred to "astral projection, which some witches do as a point of practice," she said.Like all serious witches, Ms. Matthews said she keeps a Book of Shadows, a journal of sorts for prayers, rituals, recipes and more. Covens keep a collective book, she said.She said her two tabby cats are her "familiars" -- those animal-shaped spirits who are said to serve their owners -- but neither is black.A cast iron Dutch oven is her active cauldron.She spent most of her life working in the restaurant service industry and also was a professional dancer. These jobs were on her path but not of her calling, she said."I know when I was born, there was a map and a pattern that was laid out in my mind, my heart and my soul that has led me to being a witch and has guided me through it. Even when I stumbled and fell, I always got back up and found my focus again," Ms. Matthews said.Tickets to the Witches Ball are $15 each. For tickets, e-mail thepghblackhatsociety@yahoo.com. For more on the Black Hat Society Network, visit www.meetup.com/The-Pittsburgh-Black-Hat-Society/ or thepghblackhatsociety.blogspot.com.Freelance writer Kathy Samudovsky can be reached at suburbanliving@post-gazette.com.Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09302/1008943-56.stm#ixzz0VsWIykKB

Festivals of the Dead from around the World

2009-10-08T20:56:00.000-07:00

By April

Halloween is my FAVORITE time of the year. I like to learn different things about the history and others traditions. I found this on a teaching site, actually, and thought it was interesting.Not Just Halloween: Festivals of the Dead from around the World“The dominant spirit, however, that haunts this enchanted region, and seems to be commander-in-chief of all the powers of the air, is the apparition of a figure on horseback without a head. It is said by some to be the ghost of a Hessian trooper, whose head had been carried away by a cannon-ball, in some nameless battle during the revolutionary war; and who is ever and anon seen by the country folk hurrying along in the gloom of night, as if on the wings of the wind.”—“The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” Washington IrvingEurope and America are by no means the only places with long histories of acknowledging the close of the harvest season through the remembrance of ancestors and strangers who have passed on. These traditions also share many elements with festivals held around the world commemorating the death of spring, as well as loved ones no longer with us. One point of intersection can be found in the offerings of food that were left on doorsteps on All-hallows-eve in many parts of Europe and America in the hopes that it might prevent wandering spirits from entering the house. Offerings comprise an integral part of many fall festivals to the dead around the world, such as those celebrated and practiced in Japan, Cambodia, and Mexico.

Why might the making and offering of special foods be an important part of festivals dedicated to the dead?

Japan—The Obon, or the Festival of the LanternsThe Festival of the Dead in Japan, which is called Obon, is held every year in the month of August. The festival often goes by a second name: The Festival of Lanterns. As in the traditional festival of Halloween, the souls of the departed return to the world of the living during this time. However, unlike Halloween, in which the souls of the dead are often imagined as malevolent or angry, like the Headless Horseman, Obon is a day when the spirits return to visit their relatives.Many Buddhists in Japan celebrate this holiday by preparing offerings of special food for their ancestors’ spirits, which are placed on altars in temples and in their homes. As the sun goes down families light paper lanterns and hang them in front of their houses to help the spirits find their way home. The celebrations end with families sending colorful paper lanterns lit by candles floating down the rivers and bays of Japan and out to sea. The string of colorful lights bobbing in the water are meant to guide the spirits of their loved ones back to the realm of the dead until next year.

Cambodia—The P’chum Ben at the PagodaIn the tenth month of the lunar calendar, which usually falls in September, Cambodian Buddhists celebrate the Pak Ben, 14 days during which they will wake before dawn each morning to prepare offerings of food and other gifts to the monks living in the local pagoda and to their ancestors. On the 15th day villagers visit the pagoda with offerings of sweet sticky rice and bean treats wrapped in banana leaves and other special foods to mark the P’chum Ben, or the Festival of the Dead, which marks the close of the Pak Ben.Each morning during the festival offerings of food, often beautifully prepared and decorated, are brought to the many temples and pagodas that dot the Cambodian countryside and cityscapes. These offerings are meant for their relatives who have passed on, and each plate of decorated sweets and fruits are offered with a prayer that they will reach their loved ones. In addition, huge batches of rice mixed with sesame seed are prepared each morning and spread along the ground in front of the pagoda where it is left for the hungry ghosts, as spirits who wander the world without any living ancestors to take care of their memory are known.The P’chum Ben festival is a day when people wear their finest clothes, get together with family and friends at the local pagoda, listen to music and speeches by monks, abbots and other important local figures, and enjoy the culinary delicacies whipped up for the occasion. While this Buddhist festival has important and serious underpinnings, it is also a time for people to spend a day visiting their friends and families, and enjoying the celebrations.

The Aztecs’ Festival of the Dead was not a day-long or week-long celebration, but went on for nearly two months in which the fall harvest was celebrated and death was honored. The festival was presided over by the goddess known as Mictecacihuatl, or the Lady of the Dead. Over the course of the festivities participants would create offerings for the dead such as foods, alcohol, flowers and ceramics.Aztecs and Mayans both believed that one day of the year the souls of the departed would return to the realm of the living, where they could visit their families and loved ones. With the arrival of the Spanish, and Catholicism, the new rulers of Mexico attempted to marshal the fiestas dedicated to the dead under the auspices of All Saints Day (November 1st) and All Souls Day (November 2nd). The dates of these two Catholic holidays are now celebrated in Mexico as Los Dias de los Muertos.This fiesta is marked by the invitation by the living to the dead to return to their family home for a visit. Families place photographs of their loved ones who have passed on at the deceased’s gravesite or on a family altar. They also place offerings of flowers, drinks and food alongside the photographs. This ritual is particularly important for those who have been lost in the year since the previous festival, and is a way of coming to terms with the death of someone loved and missed.Extended families will often meet in the cemeteries on the evening of the festival, and will collect together at the gravesite of a recently deceased relative. The family may keep vigil through the night, all the time eating the foods they have made in preparation for the fiesta, visiting with their relatives, and praying for all the members of the family, alive and dead.The preparation of the altar is an integral part of this fiesta, and some of the objects that are prepared especially for the altar have become a familiar sight to many outside of Mexico. Altars are often decorated with flowers, whose brief life span is meant to be a reminder of the brevity of all life. Brightly colored and intricately cut tissue paper festoon the altar, waving like multi-colored flags. Sweets, fruits and other foods are joined by the staples: bread, salt and water. Grooming supplies, such as a washbasin and soap, are provided for the spirits to tidy themselves after their long journey. Finally, the well-known Calaveras statues depicting skeletons participating in the activities of the living- from cooking to playing in mariachi bands- take their place on the altar, where their comic appearance brings a smile to the faces of the grieving.I would love to hear what you do on Samhain/Halloween. What special traditions do you and your family have? It is a very special time of the year in our home, so I would love to hear how others celebrate!

Je'Amours two cents...

Wonderful April I love this post come on people add to it...

Here is Italy Ossa dei Morti Or, Bones of the Dead November 2 I was taught the evil catholic church kinda took are pagan holiday and shoved it on November 2, because they honor the saints on November 1st, and they kinda wanted to bring the Pagans into the fold, but in my family it is all about food and offerings, and remembering those who dearly parted, as children we were told that are dearly parted relatives and spirits who we held dear would give us little gifts and candy... Ole time stories was told and giving of thanks for what they brought to our lives from joy and happiness and the like. The dearly departed at my Aunties house got a seat at the dinner table, got a plate of food and drink...Brightest of Blessing Je'Amour

2009-10-08T20:55:00.000-07:00

Brought to us by William or loving known as the Egg Man...

Rainbow Warrior

That statue is called the "Rainbow Warrior" in memory of the Indian story called "The Rainbow Warrior." Would you like to 'Hear that story?Do you know what a rainbow is, Yes, a beautiful bow of colors in the sky. A warrior is a brave person. One who has courage instead of being afraid.Well, the Indians would tell this story to their children around the campfire. The story goes like this:Some time in the future, the Indians said, the animals would begin to disappear. People would no longer see the wolf, or the bear, or the eagles. And, the story goes, the giant trees would also disappear. And people would fight with each other and not love each other. And, the story goes, the beautiful rainbow in the sky would fade away, and people would not see the rainbow anymore.Well, children would come. And these children would love the animals, and they would bring back the animals. They would love trees, and they would bring back the giant trees. And these children would love other people and they would help people to live in peace with, each other. And these children would love the rainbow, and they would bring back the beautiful rainbow in the sky. For this reason the Indians called these children the rainbow warriors.Now let me ask you a question. Do you love animals or hate animals? (We love animals.) Do you love trees or hate trees? (We love trees.) Do you love people or hate people? (We love people.) Do you love the rainbow or hate the rainbow? (We love the rainbow.)Well, if you love animals and trees, people and rainbows, then maybe you are the rainbow warriors and that is a statue of you.If you would like to read more follow the link below:
http://www.welcomehome.org/rainbow/prophecy/prophecies.html

Lycii Berry

2009-09-12T19:34:00.000-07:00

Lycii Berry (Goji Berry) Profile
Also known as

Lycium chinese and barbarum (often traded interchangeably in Chinese Medicine) Chinese Matrimony-vine, Boxberry, Boxthorn, Wolfberry, and Gou qi-zi. PLEASE NOTE! "Goji berry" and Lycii berry are virtually the same, with the only discernable difference is that Gojii is usually a high altitude strain of Lycium and is commonly found in the Himalayas, Nepal, Tibet, etc., whereas Lycii berry is the more common variety found in lowland areas. For trade purposes they are usually considered the same.
Introduction

Lycii berry, otherwise known to Chinese herbalists as Goji or Chinese Wolfberry is a bright red, almost chewy berry with a taste very similar to Raisins. It has been used as a general nutrient tonic (Yin tonic) for many years and Chinese medicine refers to it as a "cooling tonic".
Constituents

Beta-sitosterol, Betaine, Beta-carotene, Niacin, Pyridoxine, and Ascorbic acid
Parts Used

Whole berries.
Typical Preparations

Whole berries can be eaten raw, as they have a pleasant taste. Or they can be included in food or prepared as a tea.
Summary

Not much research has been carried out for this particular botanical and to date there have not been any released notes on possible medicinal contraindications, side effects or potential health hazards (except for those pregnant or nursing). One particular warning that has been issued comes from many traditional Chinese herbalists who suggest that Lycii should never be taken for acute colds or flu, because it will have the tendency to bring a sickness deeper.
It was once said by one of our favorite published herbalists that "Wolfberry can make the young wolf out of the old man", because for many years Lycii has been administered for erection problems.
In one recent study, results showed that men over 59 who took 2 ounces of Lycii berry each day walked away from a 10 day study having significantly higher levels of testosterone. In addition to its seemingly successful use of erection problems, Lycii is also widely used as a general health tonic, capable of removing harmful toxins from the body.
The fruit is one of the most popular tonics used in Chinese herbal medicine today and a decoction is typically used to clear the vision, strengthen the kidneys, and nourish the liver.
Precautions

Lycii berries contains betaine, which is an emmenagogue and abortifacient. Avoid using when pregnant or nursing. Chinese herbalists suggest to abstain using it during times of cold and flu.
For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolfberry

http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/learn/lycii-berry.php

Goat’s Rue Herb

2009-09-12T19:19:00.000-07:00

Goat’s Rue Herb Profile Also known as Galega officinalis, Garden Rue, Devil's Shoestring, Virginia Pea, Cat Gut, French Lilac, French Honeysuckle, Italian Fitch, Pestilenzkraut. Introduction Goat's rue is a wild legume used during the Middle Ages to treat plague. It is originally from Europe by way of Asia, but can now be found in most temperate regions around the world that have damp, sandy soil. Historically, Europeans used it to induce sweating to break fevers and to treat infections with parasitic worms and snakebite. Native Americans used it for several different reasons: as an aphrodisiac and to help with impotence in men, to "restore" health and beauty in women, and an herbal tea was made of the roots and given to children to make them grow up strong and muscular. Modern herbalists use it as an herbal tea to treat rheumatism, bladder problems, fever, hard coughs, irregular menstruation, and to increase the flow of breast milk. The famous herbalist Nicholas Culpepper stated that it was good as a soak for tired feet, and also, oddly enough, for cheese making. The plant has no odor unless a stem or leaf is bruised, causing the release of a stench, hence the name goat's rue.Constituents
Galegine (the anti-diabetic chemical in the plant), tannins, chromium.
Parts Used

The above-ground parts of the plant, ground and chopped.
Typical Preparations
Traditionally used as a tea, sometimes available in tea bags. May also be taken as a capsule or extract.
Summary

Goat's rue derivatives have been associated with reductions in blood sugar levels, but more clinical studies are needed. It is also used cosmetically in hand and foot bath formulas.
Precautions

The safety for pregnant or lactating mothers has not been clinically verified, but historical information tends to regard it as safe, and in fact it may be able to increase breast milk.
For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

http://www.galensgarden.co.uk/herbs/goatsrue.php

http://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_goats_rue.htm

A to Z Of Spices

2009-09-11T08:27:00.000-07:00

A To Z Of Spices

ALLSPICE: These small dark, reddish-brown berries are so called because their aroma and flavor resemble a combination of cinnamon,cloves and nutmeg. Use berries whole in marinades; for boiling andpot roasting meatsand poultry; in fish dishes, pickles and chutneys. Also available ground and excellent for flavoring soups, sauces anddesserts.

ANISE: Commonly called asniseed, these small, brown oval seeds havethe sweet, pungent flavor of licorice. Also available ground. Useseeds in stews and vegetable dishes, or sprinkle over loaves and rollsbefore baking. Try ground anise for flavoring fish dishes and pastriesfor fruit pies.

CARAWAY: Small brown, crescent-shaped seeds with a strong liquoriceflavor and especially delicious as a flavoring in braised cabbage andsauerkraut recipes, breads (particularly rye), cakes and cheeses.

CARDAMOM: Small, triangular-shaped pods containing numerous smallblack seeds which have a warm, highly aeromatic flavor. You can buygreen or black cardamoms although the smaller green type is morewidelyavailable.

CAYENNE: Orangey-red in color, this ground pepper is extremely hot andpungent. Not to be confused with paprika which, although related, ismild flavored.

CHILI POWDER: Made from dried red chilies. This red powder varies inflavor and hotness, from mild to hot. A less fiery type is found inchili seasoning.

CINNAMON & CASSIA: Shavings of bark from the cinnamon tree areprocessed and curled to form cinnamon sticks. Also available inground form.Spicy, fragrant and sweet, it is used widely in savory and sweetdishes.Cassia(from the dried bark of the cassia tree) is similar to cinnamon,but less delicate in flavor with a slight pungent 'bite'.

CLOVES: These dried, unopened flower buds give a warm aroma andpungency to foods, but should be used with care as the flavor canbecome overpowering. Available in ground form. Cloves are added tosoups, sauces,mulled drinks,stewed fruits and apple pies.

CORIANDER: Available in seed and ground form. These tiny, pale brownseeds have a mild, spicy flavor with a slight orange peel fragrance.An essential spice in curry dishes, but also extremely good in manycake and cookie recipes.

CUMIN: Sold in seed or ground. Cumin has a warm, pungent aromaticflavor and is used extensively in flavor curries and many MiddleEastern and Mexican dishes. Popular in Germany for flavoringsauerkraut and pork dishes. Use ground or whole in meat dishes andstuffed vegetables.

FENUGREEK: These small, yellow-brown seeds have a slight bitter flavorwhich, when added in small quantities, is very good in curries,chutneys and pickles, soups, fish and shellfish dishes.

GINGER: Available in many forms. Invaluable for adding to many savoryand sweet dishes and for baking gingerbread and brandy snaps. Freshginger root looks like a knobby stem. It should be peeled and finelychopped or sliced before use. Dreid ginger root is very hard andlight beige in color. To release flavor, 'bruise' with a spoon or soak in hot water before using. This dried type is more often used inpickling, jam making and preserving. Also available in ground form,preserved stem ginger and crystallized ginger.

MACE & NUTMEG: Both are found on the same plant. The nutmeg is theinner kernel of the fruit. When ripe, the fruit splits open to revealbright red arils which lie around the shell of the nutmeg - and oncedried are known as mace blades. The flavor of both spices is verysimilar -warm, sweet and aromatic, although nutmeg is more delicatethan mace.Both spices are also sold ground. Use with vegetables; sprinkled overegg dishes, milk puddings and custards; eggnogs and mulled drinks; oruse as a flavoring in desserts.

PAPRIKA: Comes from a variety of pepper (capsicum) and althoughsimilar in color to cayenne, this bright red powder has a mild flavor.

PEPPER: White pepper comes from ripened berries with the outer husks removed. Black pepper comes from unripened berries dried until darkgreenish-black in color. Black pepper is more subtle than white. Usewhite or black peppercorns in marinades and pickling, or freshly ground as a seasoning. Both are available ground. Green peppercorns are also unripe berries with a mild, light flavor. They are canned inbrine or pickled, or freeze-dried in jars. They add a pleasant, light peppery flavor to sauces, pates and salad dressings. Drain thosepacked in liquid and use either whole or mash them lightly beforeusing. Dry green peppercorns should be lightly crushed before using to help release flavor,unless otherwise stated in a recipe.

POPPY SEEDS: These tiny, slate-blue seeds add a nutty flavor to bothsweet and savory dishes. Sprinkle over desserts and breads.

SAFFRON: This pice comes from the stigmas of a species of crocus. It has a distinctive flavor and gives a rich yellow coloring to dishes,however, it is also the most expensive spice to buy. Available insmall packets or jars(either powdered or in strands - the strands being far superior in flavor). This spice is a must for an authentic paella or Cornish Saffron Cake. Also an extremely good flavoring for soups, fish and chicken dishes.

SESAME SEEDS: High in protein and mineral oil content, sesame seedshave a crisp texture and sweet, nutty flavor which combines well incurries and with chicken,pork and fish dishes. Use also to sprinkleover breads,cookies and pastries before baking.

STAR ANISE: This dried, star-shaped seed head has a pungent, aromatic smell, rather similar to fennel. Use very sparingly in stir-frydishes.Also good with fish and poultry.

TURMERIC: Closely related to ginger, it is an aromatic root which isdried and ground to produce a bright, orange-yellow powder. It has arich, warm, distinctive smell, a delicate, aromatic flavor and helpsgive dishes an attractive yellow coloring. Use in curries, fish andshellfish dishes, rice pilafs and lentil mixtures. It is also anecessary ingredient in mustard pickles and piccalilli.

All spices should be stored in small airtight jars in a cool, darkplace, as heat, moisture and sunlight reduce their flavor.

If we did not mention your favorite spice let us know we will add it to the list...

MAGICAL HERBAL DIRECTORY

2009-09-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

MAGICAL HERBAL DIRECTORY ALFALFA- prosperity, attraction of money, burn or place in the kitchen

ANGELICA- Protection, Healing, inreases life energy bringing warmth of Fire element, Exorcism

ANISE, STAR PODS- Protection, Purification, Winter Solstice

ASTRAGALUS- Fortification, Strength

BAY- Healing, Protection, Psychic Powers, Strength

BLACKBERRY LEAF- Healing, Money, Protection

BLACK COHOSH ROOT- Courage, Love, Potency, Protection

BLADDERWRACK- This sea governed plant makes a wonderful water or sea ritual herb, Money, Protection, Psychic Clarity, Wind Rituals

BLESSED THISTLE- Abundance, Flow

BLUE COHOSH ROOT- Courage, Balance, Protection

BURDOCK ROOT- Healing, Protection, Clears space & holds the space safe, spirit of North

CALENDULA- Opening to the 3rd Chakra, helps energy move outward from center of body extending in all directions

CATNIP- Beauty, Happiness, Love

CHAMOMILE- Love, Money, Sleep, Purification, Child's Annointing

CHAPPARAL- Fire element rituals, Protection, Spirit of South

CEDAR LEAF TIPS- Healing, Protection, Purification of body, aura field, & space

CELANDINE- Escape, Happiness, Legal Matters, Protection

CHASTE TREE BERRIESCHICORY ROOT, ROASTED- To inspire Frugality, Invisibility, Removing Obstacles, Favors-annoint body to obtain

CLOVES- Exorcism, Love, Money, Protection

CINNAMON, GROUND- Healing, Love, Personal Empowerment, Protection, Spirituality, Success

COMFREY LEAF- Money, Safe Journeys (Worldly or through Meditation)

COMFREY ROOT- Money, Safe Journeys (Worldy or through Meditation), Winter Solstice

COPAL RESIN- Love, Purification, Earth Element, Sets Sacred Space,Allows Guides and Guidance to come in

CORNSILK- Water Element, Stimulates Flow

DAMIANA- Love, Visions, Opens Door Between Worlds

DANDELION LEAF- Calling Spirits, Divination, Wishes

DANDELION ROOT- Calling Spirits, Divination, Wishes

DONG QUAI, SLICES- Health, Vitality, Fire Element Rituals

DRAGON'S BLOOD RESIN- Exorcism, Love, Protection,Stimulates action of other herbs in incense blend,Stimulates movement of energy

ECHINACEA- Strength Wards off negativity or undesireable energies

ELDER BERRIES- Ancient Wisdom, Contact with Elementals, Healing, Invoke Majic, Protection

EUCALYPTUS LEAF- Healing, Air Element Rituals, Protection

EYEBRIGHT- Mental Ability & Clarity, Psychic Ability, Visions

False Unicorn Root- Connection to Majical Realm, Contains Energy & Intention

FENNEL SEED- Healing, Protection, Purification, Stimulates Movement

FENUGREEK- Clearing, Money

FLAX SEED- Beauty, Healing, Initiates Flow, Money, Psychic Openness

FRANKINCENSE TEAR RESIN- Consecration, Exorcism, Protection, Purification, Sets Sacred Space, Sets Safe Space for Guides to come in,Spirit of East or North Geranium- Abundance, Fertility, Health, Love, Protection

GINGER ROOT POWDER- Fire Element Rituals, Brings into Existance, Bringer of the Manifestation, Love, Money, 3rd Chakra Vitality,Inner Strength, Success, Stimulates flow of Energy, Spirit of South

GINSENG, SIBERIAN- Encourages a long lasting affect, Health, Strength

HAWTHORNE BERRIES- Fertility, 4th Chakra Strength & Vitality, Love, Contentment

HIBISCUS FLOWERS, WHOLE- Divination, Love, 5th Chakra

HOPS- Sleep, Opens the Channel In & Out of the body inrelationship with the Universe

HOREHOUND- Exorcism, Mental Ability, Protection, Opens Air Element within body & in the world, Opens Channel for Clear Communication

IRISH MOSS FLAKES- Luck, Opens Throat, Opens Channel for Clear Communication

JUNIPER BERRIES- Exorcism, Health, Protection, Sets Sacred Space, Spirit of North

KAVA KAVA ROOT- Luck, Visions, Opens one to receiving guidence and guides,Protection

KELP GRANULES- Connection to Divine Source through the Physical & Spiritual, Unity, Life-Force Strengthening Spirit of Center

Lady's Mantle- Love, Self ControlLAVENDER FLOWERS- Happiness, Love, Sleep, Purification, Peace

LEMON PEEL- Friendship, Love, Purification

LEMON VERBENA- Love, Happiness, Purification, Peace, Mental & Emotional Balance, Summer Solstice

LICORICE ROOT- Fidelity, Love, Meditation, Harmony

MANDRAKE ROOT- Protection, Protection in the Subconscious, Unconscious, & Underworld, Fertility, Money, Health, Love

MARSHMALLOW ROOT- Boundaries, Love, Protection, Strength, Emotional Balance

MEADOWSWEET- Divination, Harmony, Peace, Love, 3rd Chakra

MILK THISTLE- Creativity, Protection, Dispell, Transformation

MOTHERWORT- Balances Within, Self Empowerment, 2nd Chakra

MUGWORT- Purification, Clearing, Sleep, Visions, Opens one to the teachings of the Subconscious & Unconscious Self, Dream Clarity & Rememberance, 6th & 7th Chakras

MULLEIN LEAF- Courage, Health, Opens Life Energy flow through the body

MYRRH GUM POWDER & RESIN TEARS- Protection, Purification,Sets Sacred Space, Ancient Wisdom

NETTLES- Exorcism, Healing, Protection, Abundance,3rd & 6th ChakraPAU D\\'ARCO- Fertility, Wards off Negativity, Clears

PEPPERMINT- Love, Psychic Ability, Healing, Clears Energy & Space

RASBERRY LEAF- Love, Protection, Spirit of Center, Spring Equinox

RED CLOVER BLOSSEMS- Abundance, Love, Money, Protection, Success, Summer Solstice

RED ROOT- Clears Energy, Dispells

ROSEBUDS- Abundance, Attraction, Healing, Love, Luck, Prosperity

ROSEHIPS- Abundance, Strength, Fall Equinox Ceremony

ROSEMARY- Exorcism, Mental Clarity, Psychic Ability, Healing, Spirit of South, Purification

SAGE, GARDEN- Clears, Healing, Immortality, Inner Guide, Longevity, Protection, Purication, Vision, Wisdom

SAGE, WHITE- Clears, Healing, Immortality, Inner Guide, Longesvity, Protection, Purification, Vision, Wisdom

SARSPARILLA- Inner Strength, Grounding, PurificationSPEARMINT- Clarity, Love, Mental Ability

SWEETGRASS- Bringer of Positive Energy, Clears, Seals In,burned after White Sage which clears, the sweetgrass isthe Bringer, Spirit of East

TURMERIC- Purification( used with sea salt), Fortification, Strength, Clears AggressionUVA URSI- Boundaries, Clears blockages, Psychic Workings

VALERIAN ROOT- Protection, Self Esteem, Sleep

WHITE WILLOW- Sacred Earth Connection between human & Earth & Spirit, Healing, Protection, Spirit of East

WILD LETTUCE- Love Divination, Protection, Sleep, Opens to the deeper consciousness, Attunes to Deeper Meanings

WILD YAM- Fortification, Grounding, Release, 1st Chakra

WINTERGREEN- Hex-Breaking, Protection, Good Fortune, Opens Channels

WITCH HAZEL- Healing, Protection

WORMWOOD- Calling Spirits, Psychic Ability, Protection

YARROW- Spirit of South, Courage, Clears, Stimulates Movement

YELLOWDOCK ROOT- Clears stuck energy, Fortification

YERBA SANTA- Clears Channel to Divine Life Force, Healing, Protection, Psychic Ability

If you know of one we missed or have one you like to add, let us know...