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THE WISE WOMAN TRADITION EMPOWERS WOMEN   The Wise Woman Tradition is the oldest known healing tradition on our planet. It offers a unique view of health that is woman-centered and deeply empowering to women. This is in stark contrast to orthodox – and most alternative – healing traditions, which are based on male viewpoints which disempower women. The medicine I learned in school was based on a linear, scientific, male worldview whose truth I did not question. When this medicine failed me, as a woman and a mother, I sought alternatives. Herbs helped me take care of myself and my family, simply and safely, but I questioned the assumptions…

For as long as I have been a Witch I have heard, and sometimes refereed, the “Binding Spell” discussion.  On one side there is the belief that spells should not be done without a persons knowledge, on the other side self-defense and protection.  Not to sound like a politician, but my opinion has evolved.  It took me a while to see in my life, that sometimes there is just no other way.  That being said, I always try protection spells first, and then sometimes binding is all that’s left.  If constant damage is being done through a persons negative, or dangerous behavior it’s a way to stop it.  In my…

In order to cast spells, the witch must first get free of spells which have been cast on her.  Spells are cast on us in childhood and later in adolescence, up through about age 19, when we define our adult personalities.  Thereafter we chiefly react against the spells we carry from an early age, following the contradictory guidance of other spells (for spells often oppose each other).  The witch must come to grips with these spells, one by one, and lay them to rest.  In some cases the spell is so deeply ingrained that it must be accepted as part of the witch’s magical personality; in order to do this,…

herbal Inventory Time This time of year with winter’s cooler temperatures and abundant rainfall, there is little opportunity to engage my herbal interests outdoors. However, it is a good time to take stock of what is in “ye olde herb cupboard” and begin planning what I will need to replenish or add for the coming year. I am a rather basic herbalist. My personal philosophy about using plant medicine is simple: use what is indigenous to your location.  Occasionally, I will become curious and add something exotic, usually in a pot on the patio, but not very often. Although I have tried to abide by the teachings of several of…

Tea Tree essential oil [Melaleuca alternifolia]   Tea tree is an oil you can use without a carrier, but it does have a very strong smell.   correspondences of Tea tree; Planet~ Moon/Mercury Element~ Earth/air Colours~ white- pale yellow Other uses~ Abscess, acne, asthma, athlete’s foot, blisters, burns, bronchitis, catering, cold sores, coughs, dandruff, herpes, insect bites, oily skin, rashes [nappy rash], spots, veruccae, warts, infected wounds, sinusitis, tuberculosis, whooping cough, thrush, vaginitis, cystitis, pruritis, colds, fever, flu, things you can catch-like Chickenpox. Lice and mites. Sunburn. Rituals~ Cleansing, Protection, stability, safety, healing. Blends with~ Clary sage, Clove, Geranium, Lavender, Marjoram, Nutmeg, Oak moss, Pine, Ravensara, Rosemary. Parts used~ steam…

A Moment For Self-Love When was the last time you did something romantic…for yourself?   Have you ever bought yourself a love gift – chocolate, flowers, jewelry, or something so special only someone who knew you intimately would think to surprise you with it?   How intimate are you with yourself?  Do you ever engage yourself in long conversations, perhaps in a journal, or take yourself out on dates?   Whether you are single or married to the best partner in the world, you need to nurture your relationship with yourself.  Acting and speaking in a loving manner to yourself heals you, rejuvenates you, and helps you to grow as…

Imbolc This holiday is also known as Candlemas, or Brigid’s Day. One of the four Celtic “Fire Festivals. Commemorates the changing of the Goddess from the Crone to the Maiden. Celebrates the first signs of Spring. Also called “Imbolc” (the old Celtic name).   This is the seasonal change where the first signs of spring and the return of the sun are really noticed, i.e. the first sprouting of leaves, the sprouting of the flowers etc. In other words, it is the festival commemorating the successful passing of winter and the beginning of the agricultural year. This Festival also marks the transition point of the threefold Goddess energies from those…

Imbolc!   Merry Meet! It’s time to celebrate Imbolc and welcoming the coming spring. Some great ideas for your Imbolc celebration: Imbolc Oil Recipe: Imbolc Incense: 3 parts Frankincense 2 parts Dragon’s Blood 1/2 part Red Sandalwood 1 part Cinnamon a few drops Red Wine add to carrier oil of your choosing. To this mixture add a pinch of the first flower (dry it first) that is available in your area at the time of Imbolc (February 2nd.) Burn during Wiccan ceremonies on Imbolc, or simply to attune with the symbolic rebirth of the Sun–the fading of winter and the promise of spring.  One flower that just may be in…