Show Notes
Blue Ridge Witchery Podcast – Episode 1 “Essential Crystals”
Hey y’all! Welcome to the first episode of Blue Ridge Witchery, my new podcast series about all things witchy and wonderful. My name is Jen and I am what you might call a hedge witch. I live in the foothills of the blue ridge mountains and the natural world around me has a strong influence on my practice. In this series, I will talk about witchcraft as a practice and related topics like crystals, herbalism, and divination tools.
Before we begin all of that though, let me first preface this with my stance on all of these topics. I do not practice witchcraft as a religion, in fact I do not practice any religion. I consider myself a Pagan and recovering Southern Baptist. I realize that religion is a very personal topic and I want you to understand one thing about me. I honor and support any religion you choose to practice as long as you do not attempt to force it on me or those around me. Everyone is welcome in this space.
When I talk about things like crystals and herbs and their associations, I am NEVER promoting their use as any kind of treatment or substitution for actual medical or psychological care. I used these things as aids, tools, or compliments, never as medicine or therapy. I believe in science and medicine 1000%.
So, with all that out of the way, let’s lighten the mood and talk about what I think are the essential crystals in any witchy collection. Most of the information I am sharing with you today come from my own personal experience as well as my favorite crystal reference book called Love is in the Earth – A Kaleidoscope of Crystals, by Melody. This book was first published in 1995 and is hailed as the definitive reference book for describing the metaphysical properties of the mineral kingdom. This book is somewhat difficult to find as it is now out of print, but can be found in used bookstores or websites that sell used books such as ABE Books or Ebay. Of course, any time you can support a local or independent bookseller, I would suggest doing so. There are so many wonderful independent bookstores around the country that sell used books that are often difficult to find.
Let’s begin with…
Clear Quartz (Clear) – Universal Tool
Quartz is perfect for the redirection of energy toward a beneficial state. It has a naturally balanced energy field. It can be used to amplify energy and thoughts and is said to be a connection between the mind and the physical dimension. It’s like a mineral transceiver in that it can be used to both receive and transmit energy and intention. It is wonderful for activating energy centers and facilitating the flow of energy as well as activating the crown chakra. If you’re going to start collecting and or using crystals, clear quartz is definitely one to start with. Anytime I need a tool for amplifying the energy for a spell, if I don’t have a crystal that is specifically attuned to my needs, I always turn to clear quartz. Living in the south, it is likely that you can go outside and find a piece of quartz in your environment right now.
Amethyst – Crown Chakra (Top of Head: states of higher consciousness and divine connection)
Amethyst is definitely my favorite of all of the crystals. Mostly because it’s purple. But, also because it is known as a universal healer. It’s a variety of quartz and it has a huge range of colors from deep purple to pale lavender. When quartz is in the presence of manganese it produces amethyst. The iron content causes the variation in the purple color. Amethyst facilitates the transmutation of lower energies and to higher frequencies. It balances energy and provides a clear connection between the Earth and other worlds. It can be used to clear auras or transmute any type of energy dysfunction. It helps to open and activate the crown chakra. Some people use it to help with insomnia, relieve headaches, and calm the mind. It is also thought to relieve arthritis pain.
Substitutes – Amethyst/Chevron Quartz, Labradorite
Lapis Lazuli – Third Eye Chakra (Center of Forehead: Intuition and foresight)
Lapis lazuli is a beautiful deep blue and white stone. It is known as “the stone that existed since before time was born” and is associated with the third eye chakra and AIDS with intuition and foresight. It’s also known as “the stone of total awareness” and can help in expanding awareness and intellectual capacity. It can be used placed over the third eye area on the forehead for gaining insights into your dreams. It is also sad that lapis lazuli can aid in the improvement of disorders surrounding the throat and the thymus in the immune system. Personally, I have a roller filled with lapis lazuli chips in which I keep sweet almond oil combined with tea tree and lavender essential oils. I frequently spread this oil over my throat when I’m feeling particularly affected by my hypothyroidism.
Substitutes – Sodalite, Azurite
Aquamarine – Throat Chakra (Center of Neck: communication)
Aquamarine is generally a pale color of teal blue reminiscent of Caribbean waters. It’s known as the stone of courage and enhances one’s ability for rapid intellectual responses through the assimilation of knowledge. It’s a wonderful Stone to use in the alignment of energy work related to chakras. It’s also another mineral that is associated with the throat chakra and facilitates communication on a higher level. People often use it in the treatment of swollen glands and improving vision. One particularly interesting quality of aquamarine is that it’s also used extensively in the activation of memory of past life experiences.
Substitutes – Turquoise, Blue Lace Agate
Rose Quartz – Heart Chakra (Center of Chest: love, self-love, relationships)
Rose quartz is another one of my absolute favorites. This mineral represents love and calm and while it shares a lot of the same qualities of clear quartz, it also balances the connection between the physical body and subtle bodies that can stimulate the astral body and the psychic systems. It’s associated with the heart chakra due to its association with love and sensual energies as well as opening one’s mind and heart up to the beauty of art, music and literature. I love pairing rose quartz with strawberry quartz as well.
Substitutes – Rhodonite, Amazonite
Citrine – Solar Plexus Chakra (Below the Chest: Self-Esteem, willpower)
Citrine is yet another variety of quartz that ranges from yellow to golden browns to even a deep amber color. It’s one of the two minerals on the planet that doesn’t accumulate negative energy; it instead dissipates it and transmutes it. Therefore, it never needs clearing or cleansing. The other is selenite. Citrine is widely known as the “merchant’s stone” and it is believed that placing a piece of citrine in a cash box promotes wealth and good luck for merchants. Citrine is wonderful for activating and energizing the solar plexus chakra and for directing personal power and creativity. It also stimulates mental focus and stamina. Other common associations are that it aids in digestion and digestive disorders, circulation, and thyroid disorders.
Substitutes – Topaz, Tiger’s Eye
Moonstone – Sacral Chakra (Below the Navel: creativity, sensuality)
Well, I’m going to say it again, Moonstone is one of my favorites. It’s a very milky Stone that often has an iridescent property. It’s closely associated with lunar energies and new beginnings. For that reason, you’ll see it as a preferred stone used in a lot of new moon rituals. It’s a very balancing stone that promotes introspection and reflection. It’s associated with the sacral chakra which is just below the naval and is the center of creativity and sensuality and body. It’s also thought to banish negative energy and promote discernment and decision making. Moonstone is often called the “Traveler’s Stone” and is used for protecting people when they travel. Sort of a Talisman of Good Fortune. While I carry one of my own when I travel, Jonathan also has one that he takes with him on trips. It’s a very sweet reminder of home and my intention of protection and love for him while he’s traveling. In terms of its usefulness with relation to health, it is often used to enhance the simulation of nutrients, to expel toxins, and aid with digestive disorders and pulmonary constipation. It’s also used to promote ease of pregnancy and childbirth to enhance fertility and alleviate the symptoms of PMS and insomnia.
Substitutes – Carnelian, Coral
Smoky Quartz – Root Chakra (Base of Spine: grounding, security)
I know I keep saying that certain stones are my favorite, but smoky quartz is definitely at the top of my list of favorite crystals. It is a variation of quartz and it has a wide range of colors from a light smoke gray to a dark smoky gray, brown or black. It is closely associated with the root chakra and energy is located in the hands and feet. It is my favorite grounding Crystal that makes me feel connected to the Earth and stable. It is wonderful for getting rid of negative energies and emotional blockages and it can be used to promote clarity of thought, therefore it is very useful during meditative practices. It’s also a deeply protective stone and is used in certain ceremonial rights such as the laying on of stones. Interestingly, the presence of sodium is what provides smoky quartz with its variation of hues and it is said that it can help facilitate regulation of liquids within the body in order to promote a state of equilibrium with regard to mineral distribution.
Substitutes – Obsidian, Tourmaline
Blue Ridge Witchery Podcast – Episode 2 “Apothecary Essentials”
Hey y’all! Welcome to episode two of Blue Ridge Witchery, my podcast series about all things witchy and wonderful. My name is Jen and today I will be talking about some amazing, super useful herbs and which I think are the essential herbs for any witch’s apothecary. At the end of these notes, I have also included a list of books that I have used as resources and links to some of my favorite magickal supply shops.
First, let me reiterate that this information is simply here to provide you with suggested tools for your practice and none of what I am saying today should be taken as medical advice, nor is it in any way meant to be a substitute for medical or psychological treatment by licensed physicians or clinicians. That said, I am leaning very heavily toward the magickal and metaphysical properties of the herbs I am talking about today.
Lavender
Magickal Applications: This versatile herb aids in any sort of
manifestation. Used in invocations of Hecate and the blessing of homes
and birthing places.
Other Magickal Associations
- Tarot Card: The Hermit
- Chakra: Solar Plexus (protection from external stimuli)
- Element: Water/Air
Astrological Associations: Mercury (especially in Gemini or Virgo)
Taken Internally: Promotes sleep, relieves anxiety, soothes headaches, and repels insects. Lavender is lovely when infused into syrups that can be used to prepare lemondes, teas, and cocktails.
Household Uses:
- Aromatherapy (oil, incense, or flowers)
- Antiseptic (infusions/tincture)
Bay Leaves
Magickal Applications: Bay is said to attract love and romance. It is
used to put forth intentions/wishes by writing one’s intention on a bay
leaf and burning it.
Other Magickal Associations
- Tarot Card: The Sun
- Chakra: Solar Plexus & Third Eye
- Element: Fire
Astrological Associations: Sun/Leo
Taken Internally: While bay is used in cooking as a savory flavor, it is
not recommended to just ingest bay leaves outright. Doing so in high
doses can have narcotic effects.
Household Uses: Plant bay around the home to protect against
thunderstorms. Give a wreath of woven bay branches to a graduate or
someone that has accomplished a goal.
Folkloric Traditions: It is said that bay was used by the Oracle at Delphi to induce mediumship.
Rosemary
Magickal Applications: Use rosemary to ensure moments are
remembered or to protect you during a job interview and increase your prospects of getting the job you want. Burn rosemary to purify places of sickness or distress.
Other Magickal Associations
- Tarot Card: The Magician
- Chakra: Solar Plexus
- Element: Air
Rosemary is also used to regulate the heart chakra.
Astrological Associations: Sun/Capricorn
Taken Internally: Rosemary is a wonderful, yet strong herb with which
to cook.
Household Uses: Infuse rosemary into vinegar or alcohol to use while
cleaning after periods of illness.
Folkloric Traditions: Rosemary is used to strengthen memory. Hang a
branch over a bed for protection from spirits. In Irish folklore,
rosemary was hung over a crib to prevent babies from being stolen by
faeries and replaced with changelings.
Chamomile
Magickal Applications: Chamomile is believed to promote healing
energies. It is used to call upon solar energies and engage in solar
magick. Chamomile is used during Midsummer rituals to call upon or
honor the Father of Nature. It is also used during Yule rituals to
celebrate the return of the sun. It is said to protect us from energy
vampires.
Other Magickal Associations
- Tarot Card: The Hermit
- Chakra: Solar Plexus & Throat
- Element: Water
Astrological Associations: Sun/Leo
Taken Internally: Making a tea out of the flowers is a popular way to
use chamomile. It has a deeply calming effect.
Household Uses: Burned as incense, chamomile has a sweet, fresh
fragrance.
Folkloric Traditions: Planted over a grave to help the deceased rest and
not return.
Mint
Magickal Applications: Mint is associated with Pluto and Hecate. It is
useful in spells for attracting wealth, love, and healing. It is also used to
protect travelers and has even been used in exorcism rituals.
Other Magickal Associations
- Tarot Card: The Magician
- Chakra: Solar Plexus
- Element: Air
Astrological Associations: Venus/Taurus/Virgo
Taken Internally: Settles the stomach, promotes wakefulness, eases
headache pain.
Household Uses: Flavoring for toothpaste, medicines, and candies, but
also a wonderful herbal tea or beverage flavoring.
Folkloric Traditions: Pliny the Elder advised scholars to wear crowns of
mint to promote concentration.
Sage
Magickal Applications: Smudging of sacred spaces or objects,
purification. Associated with the Temperance tarot card. Sage is often used on the autumn equinox, Samhain, or Yule as a reminder of the light within. Sage works with the throat chakra to clear blockages of expression.
Other Magickal Associations
- Tarot Card: The Hermit
- Chakra: Throat
- Element: Air
Astrological Associations: Venus/Jupiter/Leo
Taken Internally: Thins Mucus. Can be used as tea to cleanse the body, mind, and spirit.
Household Uses: Antiseptic
Folkloric Traditions: Thrown out of a window on the hour, each hour
beginning at midnight to attract a husband. It is said that sage grows
best when the woman of the household plants it. For maximum benefit,
consume sage for nine days in a row leading up to a new or full moon.
Rose Petals or Buds
Magickal Applications: Rose represents all elements of Goddess
energy. It is used as an element of love, desire, and secrecy. Different
colors of roses are taken to sabbats, such as Midsummer, Beltane, and
Ostara.
Other Magickal Associations
- Tarot Card: Seven of Cups
- Chakra: Sacral
- Element: Water
Astrological Associations: Mars/Venus/Taurus
Taken Internally: Rose or rose water is used in a plethora of cuisine and
beverages.
Household Uses: Often used in floor washes and as a scent in ritual
baths, lotions, or anointing oils.
Folkloric Traditions: In addition to the plethora of folk traditions
involving love and sensuality, it is also used by Roman Catholics to
guard secret meetings and confessionals.
Mugwort
Magickal Applications: Divination and psychic travel. Wards off evil.
Associated with the goddess, Diana, it is used in many womens’ covens. The essential oil is used to anoint crystal balls and other divination tools. Mugwort is associated with quartz, pearl, and moonstone. It is also used widely in Midsummer rituals. It is used in the enhancement of dreams.
Other Magickal Associations
- Tarot Card: The Moon
- Chakra:Third Eye
- Element: Earth
Astrological Associations: Venus/Neptune/Libra
Taken Internally: Promotes menstrual health because it can bring about
delayed periods. However, it should never be taken internally by
pregnant women for that very reason. I personally use it any time I am preparing to meditate, work with divination tools, or communicate with spirits. Asheville Raven & Crone makes a wonderful tea called Divination Tea, that contains mugwort as well as many other ingredients that facilitate higher states of thought or being.
Household Uses: Ease rashes, fade bruises, and makes fires burn longer.
Folkloric Traditions: In ancient Rome, it was carried by travelers to
ward off accidents and thieves. It is also used to protect loved ones while
traveling by throwing it into the fire of the home hearth.
Wild Thyme
Magickal Applications: Incorporate wild thyme into your practice to
elevate your mood and get rid of sorrow. It can also be used to enhance
spirit communication, therefore it is a popular addition to Samhain rituals.
Other Magickal Associations
- Tarot Card: Strength
- Chakra: Third Eye and Heart
- Element: Air
Astrological Associations: Venus/Taurus/Libra
Taken Internally: Thyme is a wonderful, savory herb to use in cooking
and also a useful herb for incorporating into tea to support respiratory health.
Household Uses: In addition to cooking and tea, wild thyme and other
varieties of thyme can be used as a ground cover that remains tidy,
blooms beautifully, and is fragrant when walked upon. Therefore it is a
great alternative to turf grass or non-native groundcover.
Folkloric Traditions: Fields of wild thyme are thought to be a favorite
area of the fae.
Cleavers
Magickal Applications: Cleavers is used in autumn equinox rituals as a
way of saying farewell and thank you to the sun and the energy it
Provides. It can also be used for binding spells.
Other Magickal Associations
- Tarot Card: Unknown
- Chakra: Crown and Throat
- Element: Fire
Astrological Associations: Saturn/Moon/Cancer
Taken Internally: Cleavers is an excellent for promoting lymphatic
drainage and can therefore help the body to repel infections before they set in and become a viral infection. It is also a diuretic and promotes restful sleep.
Household Uses: The roasted seeds make a great coffee substitute. It is also an excellent skin cleanser.
Folkloric Traditions: Legend has it that you should take cleavers for
three nights in a row before setting out upon a journey as it aids in ease
of change.
Pine
Magickal Applications: Used as incense, pine can be used to purify
spaces and send evil energies back to their origins.
Other Magickal Associations
- Tarot Card: The Wheel
- Chakra:
- Element: Fire
Astrological Associations: Mars/Pluto/Aries/Scorpio
Taken Internally: Pine needles are lovely incorporated into teas.
Household Uses: The needles and resin can also be burned as an
incense.
Folkloric Traditions: Pine is considered sacred in many cultures. It is
said that Poseidon used pine resin in the assembly of his ship for
protection, so it is a favorite element of sailors.
Dandelion
Magickal Applications: Dandelion can be used to invoke Hecate. It is
often used in divination and spirit communication.
Other Magickal Associations
- Tarot Card: The Sun
- Chakra: Solar Plexus
- Element: Air
Astrological Associations: Jupiter/Sagittarius
Taken Internally: Dandelion makes a great diuretic. It is often used on
detox teas to reduce bloating.
Household Uses:
Folkloric Traditions: Legend has it that if you blow the seeds of a
dandelion into the wind, they will carry your wishes to your lover.
Marshmallow
Magickal Applications: Associated with love and fertility deities,
marshmallow is often used in attraction and fertility spells.
Other Magickal Associations
- Tarot Card: Queen of Pentacles
- Chakra: Crown/Third Eye
- Element: Water
Astrological Associations: Venus/Capricorn
Taken Internally: Marshmallow has a slight laxative effect. It is also a
great anti-Inflammatory. It is also thought to increase potency and
fertility.
Folkloric Traditions: Traditionally grown on sacred ground, especially
the resting places of loved ones.
Household Uses: Marshmallow can be used as a lubricant when soaked or boiled.
Favorite Herb Magic Books
- Witch’s Garden, Plants in folklore, magic, and traditional medicine by Sandra Lawrence
- Folk Magic and Healing, An unusual history of everyday plants by Fez Inkwright
- The Green Witch, The natural magic of herbs, flowers, essential oils, and more by Arin Murphy-Hiscock
- A Compendium of Herbal Magick by Paul Beyerl
- An Astrological Herbal for Women by Elisabeth Brooke
- Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs by Scott Cunningham
- The Herbal Alchemist’s Handbook, A complete guide to Magickal Herbs and how to use them by Karen Harrison
- The Big Book of Backyard Medicine, The ultimate guide to home-grown herbal remedies by Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal
My Favorite Seed Sources:
- High Mowing Seeds: www.highmowingseeds.com
- Annie’s Heirloom Seeds: www.anniesheirloomseeds.com
My Favorite Dried Herb Sources
- Mountain Rose Herbs: www.mountainroseherbs.com
- Asheville Raven & Crone: www.ashevillepagansupply.com
One of My Favorite Herbal Concoctions
Just Breathe Tea
- 1 teaspoon dried wild thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried marshmallow
- 1 teaspoon dried cleavers
Directions: Combine ingredients into a tea ball or gravity press. Pour 16 ounces of near boiling water (I prefer 180℉) over the top and let steep for 10 minutes. Drink one or two cups per day to promote lymphatic drainage, respiratory health, and reduce inflammation. Note that marsh mallow can have a laxative effect, if taken in larger quantities.
Blue Ridge Witchery 