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Book of Shadows > Herbs and potion ingredients  
Iingredients used in Wiccan rituals often have misleading names based on old
traditions. An infusion calling for batwings, she said, would have nothing to do with real bats. Batwing is a code for holly leaves. Adder's tongue means dogtooth violet or plantain. And since "eye" indicates the inner part of a blossom, and "woodpecker" stands for peony, a recipe calling for woodpecker's eyes is not at all what it sounds like.

Source

 

Acid
mentioned in: 1x20 The power of two
use: potion to lure an evil spirit
background: Acid (represented by the generic formula AH) is typically a water-soluble, sour-tasting chemical compound. In common usage an acid is a species that, when dissolved in water, gives a solution with a pH of less than 7.
Taste: sour when dissolved in water
Touch: strong acids have a stinging feeling
Reactivity: acids react aggresively with many metals
Electrical conductivity: acids are electrolytes

 

 
Adder's tongue, see Dogtooth violet  
   
Ague root Ague root
mentioned in: Book: The crimson spell
use:  
background: A low-growing, spreading perennial herb, with tuberous cylindrical, somewhat horizontal root, having many fibres from its lower surface. It has short-stalked, white, bell-shaped oblong flowers.
It can be found at edges of swampy or wet sandy woods, from Florida northward, specially on seashore.

The fresh root in large doses is somewhat narcotic, emetic and cathartic; when dried, these properties are lost. In smaller doses it gives colic in hypogastrium, and a sense of stupefaction and vertigo. When dried it becomes a valuable bitter tonic and its tincture or decoction has been used in flatulence, colic, hysteria, and to tone up the stomach.

Other common names:
Colic-root. Stargrass. Starwort. Star-root. Blazing Star. Aloeroot. Ague Grass. Black-root. Bitter Grass. Crow Corn. Bettie Grass. Devil's Bit.
in magic: Protection
   
Almond Almond
mentioned in: 1x05 The dream sorcerer
use: love charm
background: The Sweet Almond tree has dark-colored bark, rose to white flowers in early spring, and dry-fleshed fruit with a pitted stone containing the nut. Almonds flavor many dishes. Almond oil is a fixed oil pressed from the Sweet Almond seeds and is used in cosmetics, massage oils, and medicines.
Almonds must be chewed well and slowly. The whole raw almond had been described as a cancer preventative. Arabs crossing vast deserts live on only almonds, dates and water. One ounce of almonds can be soaked overnight in four ounces of water and blended in the morning to make a milk substitute. Peeled almonds can relieve heartburn. Ground almonds make a wonderful facial scrub. The oil relieves coughs and hoarseness. Almonds have very little starch, and the butter and flour of the nuts is recommended for diabetics.
Caution: Almonds contain hydrocyanic acid and can be toxic if eaten in large amounts (over 50 kernels for an adult, ten for a child)
in magic: (Wood) Burn for money, riches and wisdom. Almond wood makes a nice magickal wand. Sweet Almond Oil is one of the primary carrier oils for ritual and anointing blends.

Source
   
Aloe plant aloe-plant-4x04.jpg
mentioned in: 4x04 Enter the demon
use: medical use
background: The aloe plant is the most researched and used of the more than 300 species of aloe. The plant has many common names and is often referred to as aloe vera, burn plant, first-aid plant, or medicine plant.

Aloe gel has long been used both externally and internally for its beneficial effects in the wound-healing process. It has also positive effects on skin burns, anti-inflammatory effects and can support and enhance the immune system.
in magic: In Witchcraft it is used for protection and luck
 

 

 
Angelica angelica-4x04.jpg
mentioned in: 4x04 Enter the demon
use: kitchen, medical use
background: Angelica's long sturdy hollow stems are ribbed. Delicately colored, they start out purple at the base and lighten to a pale yellow green. Angelica is a biennial, and usually only blooms every two or three years. When the blossoms do appear, in mid to late summer, they tower above everything in the garden: globes of tiny ellow or white flowers. As they mature, the flowers produce small oval seeds

Because of its celery like flavor, Angelica has a natural affinity with fish.

Angelica helps stimulate the circulation and strengthen the heart. As an herbal medicine, it promotes circulation and energy in the body.

Angelica is used to make arthritis remedies and for coughs, colds, and flu. And, it is used in herbal remedies for gas, indigestion, heartburn, and hepatitis. It is also useful to add in remedies for afflictions of the respiratory system, as well as liver problems and digestive difficulties.
in magic: Magical attributes: Protection, Exorcism.
Uses: Grow in the garden as a protection. Carry the root with you as an amulet. Burn the dried leaves in exorcism rituals.

 

 

 
Anise Anise
mentioned in: 1x05 The dream sorcerer
use: love charm
background: Anise has sweetly, aromatic leaves, rounded at the base and narrower on the stem, with umbels of flowers followed by aromatic fruits. The flowers and leaves are used in fruit salads, the stem and roots in sweet soups. In cooking or infused as a tea, the seeds aid digestion, quell nausea, and ease flatulence and colic. Anise is used in cough mixtures, as it is expectorant and soothes spasms of irritant coughs and bronchial problems. It promotes estrogen production and is used to encourage breast milk, ease childbirth, and stimulate libido. Tiny amounts of the essential oil, produced from the seeds, are added to toothpaste, perfumes and mouthwashes, and are used to mask bitter medicines, but in large amounts Anise is highly toxic. The seeds are carminative (they move gas out of the intestinal tract).
Oil of anise is a natural insecticide.
in magic: Anise seeds are an herb of protection said to avert all evil. In ancient Roman times, they were baked into a cake that was served at the end of the wedding feast. Purification, Protection; entices spirits to aid in spells; divination; psychic awareness; youth; In a pillow it wards off nightmares.

Source
 

 

 
Apple blossom Apple blossom
mentioned in: Book: The Warren Witches - Old family recipe
use: black magic apple pie recipe
background: If left to grow naturally apple trees can grow to heights of 15 to 20 feet. Grey bark, with oblong leaves, blossoms appear in May and are white tipped with pink. Mature trees over fifteen years of age bear fruit from September to October.
Apples are eaten raw as a fruit they contain boron in their skins. The Apples are made into Cider, Apple Wine or Cider Vinegar. Also made into preserves, and used in cakes and flans and other confectionaries.
in magic: Apple blossoms are used for all aspects concerning love, fertility, optimism, inner beauty,
youthfulness and rituals concerning babies and children. Often Used in love rituals/spells,
marriage ceremonies and similar rituals.
 

 

 
Arrowleaf, clover arrowleaf-6x08.jpg
mentioned in: 6x08 Charmed in Camelot
use: potion to vanquish the Dark Knight
background: Arrowleaf clover is the latest maturing annual clover with growth into mid-June under good moisture conditions.
Clover (Trifolium) is a genus of about 300 species of plants. They are found chiefly in northern temperate regions, but also, like many other north temperate genera, on the mountains in the tropics. The plants are small annual or perennial herbs with trifoliate (rarely 5- or 7-foliate) leaves and heads or dense spikes of small red, purple, white, or rarely yellow flowers. They are often cultivated as fodder-plants.
in magic: Clover flowers
red: used for love, for a prosperous marriage,and to insure conjugal felicity.
white: used for personal purification and to drive away evil influences.
Clover: used for protection, money, love, fidelity, exorcism, success.
A 4-leaf clover protects against
madness, strengthens psychic powers, and is thought to lead to gold or treasures. A 5-leaf clover
is a very powerful charm for attracting money.

 

 

 
Astragalus Astragalus
mentioned in: Book: Sweet talkin' demon
use: potion against a cold
background: A member of the pea family, Astragalus is used medicinally in its native China as an immune strengthener and general tonic. In fact, it is one of the best herbs in the world for enhancing the protective effects of the immune system. Astragalus increases the levels of certain immune cells that fight viruses and other microbial intruders. Astragalus also stimulates the secretion of a powerful anti-viral chemical known as interferon, which prevents viruses from replicating. In addition, it has been shown that astragalus has a supportive effect on bone marrow, the core of the bones where white blood cells mature. Astragalus boosts the levels of anti-bodies in the body.

Spellspot.com

other names: milk-vetch, locoweed or yellow leader
in magic: Healing, Hex Breaking, Purification, Protection
 

 

 
Ash
mentioned in: Book: The crimson spell
use: unknown potion
background: Ashes are usually medium to large trees, mostly deciduous though a few subtropical species are evergreen. The leaves are opposite (rarely in whorls of three), and mostly pinnately-compound, simple in a few species. The seeds, popularly known as keys, are a type of fruit known as a samara.

The wood is hard, tough and very strong but elastic, extensively used for making bows, tool handles, quality wooden baseball bats, hurley sticks and other uses demanding high strength and resilience. It also makes excellent firewood.
The Green Ash is widely planted as a street tree in the United States. The inner bark of the Blue Ash has been used as a source for a blue dye.

In Norse mythology, the World Tree Yggdrasil is commonly held to be an ash tree, and the first man, Ask, was formed from an ash tree (the first woman was made from alder). Elsewhere in Europe, snakes were said to be repelled by ash leaves or a circle drawn by an ash branch. Irish folklore claims that shadows from an ash tree damage crops. In Cheshire, it is said that ash could be used to cure warts or rickets.

Many echoes of archaic Hellene rites and myth involve ash trees.

In North America, the name ash is also given to species of Sorbus, more accurately known as Rowans and Whitebeams. In Australia, many common eucalyptus species are called ash because they too produce hard, fine-grained timber. The best known of these is the Mountain Ash, the tallest broadleaf tree in the world.
in magic: Carve a piece of ash wood into a solar cross (equal-armed) and carry it. A staff of ash wood placed over a door will ensure protection of your home.

Lucky Mojo

 

 
Balm of Gilead Balm of Gilead
mentioned in: Book: The Warren Witches - Old family recipe
use: counter-recipe for obsession
background: Balm of Gilead is a large, deciduous tree found on stream banks and planted along roadsides in Eastern US and most of Canada. May grow as tall as 100 feet. The leaves are dark green on top and whitish underneath, sometimes hairy on the lower veins.

The herb is considered to be a stimulant, tonic, diuretic, and anti-scorbutic. A tincture has been beneficially employed in affections of the chest, stomach, and kidneys and in rheumatism and scurvy. With oil they form a useful external application in bruises, swellings, wounds, some cutaneous diseases, rheumatic pains.
in magic: Attract new love, mend a broken heart and is used for protection and healing. It comforts those
who have lost in love and encourages the reconciliation of estranged lovers.
 

 

 
Banyan Banyan
mentioned in: Book: Demon doppelgangers
use: to stop a demon
background: The English name comes from 'banyans' or 'banians', the Hindu traders seen resting or carrying out their business under the tree canopy. It is a very useful shade tree throughout South Asia.
Banyan is a very large tree, spreading by aerial roots which eventually become accessory trunks. Older trees can reach more than 200m in diameter, covering an area of some hectares with a height of 30m. Banyan is epiphytic when young, sometimes growing on young trees and strangling them with its roots.

Banyan as a remedy

Reports show that the whole leaf is applied to the external parts of the body that are red and inflamed. In Ayurvedic, Unani and Siddha medicine, the milky latex from the stems and leaves of the banyan tree is applied to bruises and to parts of the body that are causing pain. The feet are frequently treated to decrease pain.
Many parts of the tree are used in caring for teeth. For example, the latex is applied to the gums to treat toothache and twigs are sold as toothpicks in markets in parts of India and Pakistan. These twigs can be used to physically clean the teeth and they are chewed to help keep the teeth clean and also to prevent gum diseases. Companies in India now make extracts from the twigs and bark of the banyan tree to make toothpaste and tooth powders.
in magic: In Hindu mythology, the banyan tree is also called kalpavriksha meaning 'wish fulfilling tree'. It represents eternal life because of its seemingly ever-expanding branches and people have great respect for it. There are many stories about it in ancient literature.
In magic it is used for luck and wealth.
 

 

 
Bat guano -
mentioned in: 3x11 Blinded by the Whitelighter
use: potion to out a demon
background: A completely organic fertilizer, it can be applied in all kinds of cultivation, especially organic and under glass,
This biological product contains live microbial flora which, when incorporated in the soil, acts on the organic matter to make nutrients available to the plants, including NPK, calcium and magnesium and all trace elements.
Bat guano has been used in agriculture for many years, but is better known in the USA at present than in Europe or other regions of the world.
 

 

 
Bayberry Bayberry
mentioned in: Book: The crimson spell
use: love spell
background: Bayberry or Myrica is a genus of about 35 species of small trees and shrubs. The genus has a wide distribution, including Africa, Asia, Europe, North America and South America, and missing only from Australasia.
The majority of species are evergreen. The roots have nitrogen-fixing bacteria which enable the plants to grow on soils that are very poor in nitrogen content. The leaves are spirally arranged, simple, 2-12 cm long, oblanceolate with a tapered base and broader tip, and a crinkled or finely toothed margin. The flowers are catkins, with male and female catkins usually on separate plants.
The fruit is a small drupe, usually with a wax coating which was used in the past to make candles. The foliage of Myrica gale is a traditional insect repellant, used by campers to keep biting insects out of tents.

Other common names include Candleberry, Sweet Gale and Wax-myrtle.
in magic: Bayberry root chips sprinkled on the money in your wallet to attract more money and good fortune to you.

Source:
Lucky Mojo



 

Betony, see Wood Betony


 
Billings root see Ginger
 

 

 
Bindweed bindweed-6x15.jpg
mentioned in: 6x15 I dream of Phoebe
use: potion to vanquish Bosk
background: Bindweeds are annual or herbaceous perennial vines.

Many of the species are problematic weeds, which can swamp other more valuable plants by climbing over them, but some are also deliberately grown for their attractive flowers.
This species occurs in many temperate regions. They are mostly slender, creeping winding vines. A few are small perennials. They have simple, alternate leaves and wide funnel-shaped flowers.
in magic: Bindweed stands for insinuation and humility.
It is also used in charm and potions to ease childbirth and woman's pains.
 

 

 
Blood meal
mentioned in: 6x05 Love's a witch
use: potion to banish a ghost
background: Blood meal is the dried and powdered blood of animals and is an excellent source of quickly available organic nitrogen.
Soil organisms break down blood meal quickly and make the nitrogen available to plants.
 

 

 
Blood root blood-root-1x20.jpg
mentioned in: 1x20 The power of two
use: potion to stop the heart beating
background: Blood root (Sanguinaria canadensis)

The flower bud, on a seperate stalk but completely enclosed by the developing leaf, pushes upward through the leaves as one of the first plants of spring.

The root contains several alkaloids, most notably sanguinarine, which has shown antiseptic, anesthetic and anticancer activity. American Indians used the root for rhuematism, asthma, bronchitis, lung ailments, laryngyitis and fevers. The red-orange juice from the root was applied to warts, used as a dye and a decorative skin stain. Bachelors of the Ponca tribe used it as a love charm, by applying it to their palms and shaking hands with the woman they wanted to marry. Within 5 or 6 days, the girl would be willing.

Historically, Bloodroot has had numerous medicinal uses from bronchitis to snakebite. Sanguinaria extract is currently used in a popular mouthwash.

in magic:

Strengthens family relations where "blood" ties bind you but respect is sometimes lacking
   
Burdock burdock-5x21.jpg
mentioned in: 5x02 A witch's tail
use: potion to vanquish the Necron
background: Burdock refers to any of a group of perennial flowering plants thistles.
Burdock grows wild throughout most of Europe and Asia, where it is noted primarily for its burrs that cling to clothing and hair.
Burdock root is very crispy and has a sweet, mild pungent flavor. Immature flower stalks may also be harvested in late spring, before flowers appear; the taste resembles artichoke, to which the burdock is related.

Folk herbalists consider dried burdock to be a diuretic, diaphoretic, and a blood purifying agent.
in magic: Burdock is commonly used for purification, strength of character and protection. Dried, hung burdock is placed in rooms for studying, creative work and divination areas because of its tendency to strengthen one's strongest talents.
 

 

 
Cardamom cardamom-5x12.jpg
mentioned in: 3x08 Sleuthing with the enemy
use: potion to vanquish Belthazor
mentioned in: 5x12 Centennial Charmed
use: potion to vanquish Belthazor
background: Stimulant, especially of added to coffee, essential oil has erotic effect.
Cardamom is a pungent aromatic spice. It is a perennial plant which can grow to be between six and 12 feet tall. Cardamom can also be spelled Cardamon and in India is popularly known as elaichi.
The green seed pods of the plant are dried and the seeds inside the pod are used in Indian and Asian cuisine either whole or in a ground form. Ground Cardamom is a primary ingredient of curry powder.
In the Middle East, Cardamom is used for coffee; in other countries such as Iran, it is used to flavor tea. Cardamom is also an ingredient of herbal teas from India, called "Yogi tea."
Cardamom has a strong, pungent taste, with a fragrance reminiscent of eucalyptus oil, while being more complex and subtle.
In India, cardamom is boiled and the steam of the hot water inhaled to treat headaches. In Ayurvedic medicine, cardamom seeds are boiled in milk sweetened with honey to make a drink to treat impotence or depression. It's good for the digestion and is helpful against morning sickness in pregnancy.
in magic: Because cardamom is considered an aphrodisiac, it is assigned to Venus but it is all Mars -a warming and stimulating herb. It is frequently found in love charms (or perhaps better to say lust charms), but as a Mars herb, it can be equally effective in magickal protection. It is a stimulant to the mind and warming to the body, said to uplift the spirits, calm the nerves, and help clarify thinking.
Cardamom is still often found in perfumes, especially "masculine" ones, and it is especially nice combined with orange, cinammon, cloves, and caraway.


 
 
Carrot seeds carrot-5x12.jpg
mentioned in: 3x08 Sleuthing with the enemy
use: potion to vanquish Belthazor
mentioned in: 5x12 Centennial Charmed
use: potion to vanquish Belthazor
background: A carrot is a root vegetable, typically orange or white in color with a woody texture. The edible part of a carrot is a taproot.

Carrots are often eaten raw, whole or shaved into salads for color, and are often cooked in soups and stews. One can also make carrot cake and carrot pudding. The greens are not generally eaten in most cultures, but are edible.
Together with onion and celery, carrots are one of the primary vegetables used in a mirepoix to make various broths. Beta carotene or Vitamin A, which gives this vegetable its characteristic orange colour, is thought to enhance the performance of receptors on the retina and thus improve eyesight. Carrots are also rich in dietary fibre, antioxidants, and minerals and are an alkaline food.
The familiar wildflower, Wild carrot, better known as "Queen Anne's Lace" is a relative of the garden carrot.
in magic: The root has diuretic and abortifacient powers and incites coitus.
Fertility, lust, sexual potency



 
Castor root Castor plant
mentioned in: 7x18 Little box of horrors
use: to dull senses
background: The castor bean (Ricinus communis) is not a true bean, but a member of the spurge family. It is the source of castor oil, which has a wide variety of uses, and ricin, a poison.

Although castor is probably indigenous to Eastern Africa, today castor is distributed worldwide.

Castor seeds have been found in Egyptian tombs dating back to 4000 BC. Herodotus and other Greek travellers have noted the use of castor seed oil for lighting and body anointments.

The use of castor seed oil in India has been documented since 2000 BC for use in lamps and in local medicine as a laxative. Castor seed and its oil have also been used in China for centuries, mainly prescribed in local medicine for internal use or use in dressings.

In Ayurveda it is used as follows:
Root-bark, leaves and oil are purgatives. Oil used in rheumatism and many other medicinal preparations. Leaves are galactagogue. Decoction of root is a remedy in phlegm, swellings, stomach-aches, dropsy, fever, hernia, asthma, leprosy, rheumatic joints and all pains in the wrist, head and bladder. It cures rheumatism and stone in the bladder. Seeds ground and eaten cure rheumatism and liver complaints.

The entire plant, including the seeds, contains an irritant substance that poisons the blood. The oil is safe because the poison remains in the seed.
 

 

 
Catnip Catnip
mentioned in: 1x05 The dream sorcerer
use: love charm
background: A Druid sacred herb. The root and leaf scent, minty with cat pheromone overtones, intoxicates cats and repels rats and flea beetles. The tender leaves are added to salads and flavor meat. They can also be brewed as tea and were used before China tea was imported. The leaves and flowering tops treat colds, calm upset stomachs, reduce fevers, and soothe headaches and scalp irritations. When smoked, leaves give mild euphoria with no harmful effects.
in magic: Chewed by warriors for fierceness in battle. Large dried leaves are powerful markers for magic books. Give it to your cat to create a psychic bond. Used in spells to promote beauty; happiness; love. Use in all Cat Magic Spells.

Source
   
Chamomile chamomilla-4x15.jpg
mentioned in: 4x15 Marry-go-round
use: to relax your nervous system
background: Chamomile usually grows near people all over Europe, North America and Australia. As the seeds need open soil to survive it often grows near roads, around landfills and in cultivated fields as a weed.
Other names include Wild chamomile and Scented mayweed.
It is used medicinally against sore stomach and as a relaxant to help you fall asleep. It is best taken as a herbal tea, two teaspoons of dried flower per cup of tea.
Chamomile is also used cosmetically, primarily to make a rinse for blonde hair.
in magic: Chamomile - sleep, calm, purification and preparation for psychic or magical working. Can be carried in a sachet or consumed in tea



 

Charcoal Charcoal
mentioned in: Book: The crimson spell
use: love potion
background: Charcoal is the blackish residue consisting of impure carbon obtained by removing water and other volatile constituents of animal and vegetable substances. It is usually produced by heating wood in the absence of oxygen.
The light, black, porous material is 85% to 98% carbon, and resembles coal.

One of the most important applications of wood charcoal is as a constituent of gunpowder. It is also used in metallurgical operations as a reducing agent, but its application has been diminished by the introduction of coke, anthracite smalls, etc. A limited quantity is made up into the form of drawing crayons; but the greatest amount is used as a fuel, which burns hotter and cleaner than wood. Charcoal is often used by blacksmiths, for cooking, and for other industrial applications.

it absorbs the gases of the stomach and intestines, and also liquids and solids (hence its use in the treatment of certain poisonings).
   
Chickweed chickweed-3x20.jpg
mentioned in: 3x20 Exit strategy
use: potion to strip Cole's powers
background: Chickweed is a common wayside weed with great value in treating blood toxicity, fevers, inflammations, and other hot diseases. It is mild enough to be eaten safely as a potherb. Another traditional use for chickweed is as a remedy for obesity. It is an internal cleanser that helps encourages weight loss through its diuretic action, eliminating waste through the kidneys. It contains saponins, which exert an anti-inflammatory action similar to cortisone, but much milder and without the harmful side effects.
in magic: Love spells, fidelity, illusions, invisibility
This gentle herb is useful when working with Lunar Magic. Many centuries have enhanced the belief that Chickweed is an ideal herb associated with birds. Chickweed is a suitable patron herb for those who work with animal magic, particularly the healing of birds.
 

 

 
Chisandra root chisandra-1x19.jpg
mentioned in: 1x19 Blind sided
use: potion to vanquish grimlocks
background: also known as Schisandra or Schizandra
Chisandra chinensis is a woody vine which bears numerous clusters of tiny, bright red berries. The vine is typically of height 15 to 25 feet and width 5 to 10 feet. It flowers from April to May, with flowers of diameter about 1 inch.
The fully ripe, sun-dried fruit is used medicinally.

Chisandras is a naturally occurring adaptogen, which has been shown to maintain systemic tonicity and balance, improve concentration and attention-span.
Adaptogens act in such a way as to help the body adapt around a problem.
The core of their action appears to lie in helping the systems of the body cope with stess and change.
 

 

 
Cinamon cinnamon-3x17.jpg
mentioned in: 3x17 Pre-witched
use: to perform a seance
mentioned in: Book: Shadow of the Sphinx
use: potion to shapeshift
mentioned in: Book: The Warren Witches - Old family recipe
use: black magic apple pie recipe
background: Cinnamon is a small evergreen tree 10-15 m tall. It is native to Sri Lanka. The leaves are ovate-oblong in shape, the flowers have a greenish colour and a rather disagreeable odour. The fruit is a purple 1 cm berry containing a single seed.
Cinnamon is principally employed in cookery as a condiment and flavouring material. In medicine it acts like other volatile oils and once had a reputation as a "cure" for colds.
Studies have found that using half a teaspoon of cinammon a day significantly reduces blood sugar levels in diabetics. The effect, which can even be produced by soaking cinnamon in tea, also benefits non-diabetics who have blood sugar problems.
in magic: Cinnamon is used in magic for deep spirituality and healing, protection, scrying and power. Its ability to retain
energy makes this one of the basic staples in your magical herb cupboard. Cinnamon is a favorite herb for the
brazier or hot coal. Burned as a powder, it creates a pleasant aroma.

 

 

 
Clematis seed clematis-6x05.jpg
mentioned in: 6x05 Love's a witch
use: potion to banish a ghost
background: Clematis is a genus of mostly vigorous climbing lianas, with attractive flowers.
Most species are simply known as Clematis in English, while some are also known as traveller's joy, leather flower, vase vine and virgin's bower, the last three being names used for North American species.
in magic: The clematis is a climber. It roots in the shade and climbs upward towards the bright sunlight. For this very reason the clematis is used in sympathetic magic to help reach goals and attain aspirations.

 

 

 

Clover, red

 

Red clover
mentioned in: Book: Sweet talkin' demon
use: potion against a cold
background: Red clover is a plant belonging to the pea family Fabaceae.
It is often used as fodder.
in magic: Although sometimes called red, it frequently ranges from a pinkish red to the purple color we are more accustomed to seeing. One may offer a flower or stalk when seeking a promise of fidelity from one's partner. If one agrees to monogamy, a white clover bloom may be given in exchange. Clover used when exchanging the promises made within a relationship is best gathered when the Moon is full.
An excellent herbe with strong associations with the element earth, clover is useful in the consecration of any ritual items made of copper and should be included when ritually consecrating the pentacle.

Full Moon Paradiss

Put in baths to aid in financial arrangements. Also used in potions for lust. Protects and blesses domestic animals.

Spellspot.com
   
Cockles cockles-3x08.jpg
mentioned in: 3x08 Sleuthing with the enemy
use: potion to vanquish Belthazor
background: The rounded shells of cockles are symmetrical, heart-shaped and feature strongly pronounced ribs. Cockles typically burrow using the foot and feed by siphoning water in and out, sifting plankton from it. They are also capable of 'jumping' by bending and straightening the foot. Unlike most bivalves, cockles are hermaphroditic and reproduce quickly.
Cockles are a popular type of shellfish in both Eastern and Western cooking.
 

 

 
Comfrey root comfrey-root-6x08.jpg
mentioned in: 6x05 Love's a witch
use: potion to banish a ghost
background: Comfrey is an important herb in organic gardening, having many medicinal and fertiliser uses.
Comfrey is a perennial herb with a black, turnip like root and large, hairy broad leaves that bears small bell-shaped white, cream, purple or pink flowers. Mature comfrey plants can be harvested up to four or five times a year.
One of its country names was 'knitbone', a reminder of its traditional use in healing. The herb contains allantoin, a cell proliferant that speeds up the natural replacement of body cells. Comfrey has been used to treat a wide variety of ailments ranging from bronchial problems, broken bones, sprains, arthritis, gastric and varicose ulcers, severe burns, acne and other skin conditions. It is also said to have bone and teeth building properties in children, and have value in treating 'many female disorders'.
in magic: A comfrey leaf helps you hold onto the money you have or the money that you win while gambling.
The root can be carried for safety and good health while travelling or when away from home.
 

 

 
Crickets cricket-3x08.jpg
mentioned in: 3x08 Sleuthing with the enemy
use: potion to vanquish Belthazor
background: Crickets are insects related to grasshoppers. They have somewhat flattened bodies and long antennae. Crickets are known for the loud chirping noises they make by rubbing their corrugated wing casings against combs on their hind legs.
Crickets are popular pets in Asia, especially China.
 

 

 
Cupid's dart
 
cupids-dart-4x04.jpg
mentioned in: 4x04 Enter the demon
use: strictly aromatic
background: Cupid's Dart are natives to Europe. They produce daisy-like, blue flowers with a dark center. Flowers bloom in mid summer atop, strong, wiry stems. Leaves are thin and grayish green in color.
Cupid's Dart are good as dried flowers, too. Harvest flowers in full bloom for cut flowers, or for use as dried flowers.
 

 

 
Cypress cypress-4x01.jpg
mentioned in: 4x01 Charmed again
use: to call a lost witch
background: Cypress is the name applied to many plants in the conifer cypress family.
in magic: This tree is often connected to death. It is used magickally in binding and releasing, to increase longevity, for easing grief and finding comfort and safety in time of loss. It symbolizes the soul and represents reincarnation and resurrection. It is sacred to Hades ("the unseen").
   
Daffyd's mallow  
mentioned in: Book: The legacy of Merlin
use: love charm
background: Also known as High Mallow, Cheeseflower, Common Mallow,  Country Mallow.
High mallow is an annual or perennial plant. The tapering, whitish root produces a round stem, 2
to 3 feet high, with alternate, light green, downy leaves which are 5 to 7 lobed.
The pink or purple axillary flowers have five narrow petals and appear from May to October.
High mallow makes a good demulcent tea for coughs, hoarseness, bronchitis, inflammation of the larynx and tonsils, and irritation of the respiratory passages. It can also be taken for
laryngitis, emphysema, and lung catarrh, and for catarrhal gastritis and enteritis. Externally, a decoction can be used to wash wounds and sores. Make a poultice of the herb to soothe irritations and inflammations. A warm enema made from the leaves is helpful
for intestinal inflammation.
in magic: If your love has left you, gather a bouquet of Mallow and place in a vase outside your door (or in a window). This will cause him or her to think of you, and after that they may return. Mallow
is also carried to attract love.
To make an effective protective magical ointment, steep Mallow leaves and stems in vegetable shortening, then strain. This ointment rubbed onto the skin casts out demons as well as protects against the harmful effects of black magic.
 

 

 
Dandelion dandelion-3x20.jpg
mentioned in: 3x20 Exit strategy
use: potion to strip Cole's powers
background: The Dandelion is a tap-rooted annual or biennial plant, found in most temperate zones.
The name dandelion is a corruption of the Old French, dent-de-lion, literally "lion's tooth" on account of the sharply lobed leaves of the plant.
The leaves are simple and basal, entire or lobed, forming a rosette above a central taproot. A bright yellow flower head is borne singly on a hollow "stem" (scape) rising above the leaves and exudes a milky sap (latex) when broken. The flower head consists entirely of ray florets and matures into a globe of fine filaments that are usually distributed by wind, carrying away the seed-containing achenes. This globe is called the "dandelion clock", and blowing it apart is a popular pastime for children.
Dandelions are grown commercially at a small scale as a leaf vegetable. The plant can be eaten cooked or raw in various forms, such as in soup or salad. They are probably closest in character to mustard greens. Usually the young leaves and unopened buds are eaten raw in salads, while older leaves are cooked. Raw leaves have a slightly bitter taste.
Dandelion blossoms are used to make dandelion wine. Dandelions are high in vitamin A and also are a source of vitamin C. Ground roasted dandelion root is sometimes used as a coffee substitute. Drunk before meals, this is believed to stimulate digestive functions; this product is sold in some health food stores, often as a mixture of dandelion and burdock.
in magic: Dandelion can be used when casting wishes, for sleep, physical energy and courage. Use it in spell work to
strengthen contractual agreements.


 
 
Datura Datura 2x17
mentioned in: 2x17 How to make a quilt out of Americans
use: potion to seperate a witch from her powers
background: Datura is a genus of herb and shrub plants belonging to the Nightshades. Originally from the American continent, different species now grow throughout the globe. Some of them are now classified under the name Brugmansia; commonly called Angel's trumpets , for the large (in some varieties up to 1 foot long) trumpet-shaped flowers.
All members of the genus, under whichever name, contain the anticholinergic alkaloids
in magic:

 

Datura was supposedly used in witchcraft to induce hallucinations. If one ingests the plant, one does not stop dreaming even when awake. These hallucinations are extremely powerful in that they can create fully realistic three-dimensional objects that blend in perfectly with the person's view of the world.
The dose-response curve is very steep, so people who consume datura can easily get into the potentially dangerous zone.
This plant is also known as Hindu datura, dhatura, and Horn of Plenty.
   
Dogtooth violet Dogtooth violet
mentioned in: Book: As Puck would have it
use: not mentioned
background: Found in rich moist woodlands, especially in bottomlands with open woods. Blooms from April to June.
Also known as Adder's tongue or
trout lily.
  Stops gossip and slander, promotes healing. Sacred to serpent goddesses. Used in divination, healing magic, lunar magic, and dream magic. 

Source
 

 

 
Dragon's blood Dragons blood
mentioned in: Book: The Warren Witches - Old family recipe
use: black magic apple pie recipe
background: Dragon's blood, a bright red gum used in ancient Roman and medieval magic and alchemy, then believed by the users to be the dried blood of dragons, is the dried resin tapped from the stems
of Dracaena draco, native to the Canary Islands and Morocco.
It was used as a dye and medicine in the Mediterranean basin. It was held by early Greeks, Romans, and Arabs to have medicinal properties; Dioscorides and other early writers described it.
It was also used for ceremonial purposes in India. Now it is used as a varnish for violins and in photoengraving.
It was believed to promote healing of wounds and stop bleeding. Internally it is used for chest pains, post-partum bleeding, internal traumas, and menstrual irregularities.
in magic: In neopagan Witchcraft, it is used to increase the potency of spells for protection, love, banishing and sexuality. Carried for good luck and to attract riches.
Dragon's Blood Ink is used when creating talismans, sigils, pacts, or petition papers dealing with issues of power and protection.
 

 

 
Dragon root dragon-root-5x13.jpg
mentioned in: 5x13 Obesessions
use: potion to call a witch doctor
mentioned in: 5x21 Necromancing the stone
use: potion to vanquish the Necromancer
background: Dragon Root (or Green Dragon) is a hardy native of North America and thrives in woodlands where temperatures do not fall below -20º F. The flowers are striped with green and purplish brown. Dragon Root produces red or orangish-red berries in the summer and autumn.
It contains a poison that inflames mucous surfaces, destroying tissue. As a tincture at 1st potency it can be used for pharyngitis with raw, sore, tender throat.
 

 

 
Dwarf lotus dwarf-lotus-6x08.jpg
mentioned in: 6x08 Charmed in Camelot
use: potion to vanquish the Dark Knight
background: This dwarf lotus plant from South China is growing to about half a meter and makes a beautiful pot plant for sunny places.
Lotus can be eaten and is used in many oriental dishes.
in magic: Lotus in general is used for protection and as love spell antidote
 

 

 
Dwarf Milkweed milkweed-6x15.jpg
mentioned in: 6x15 I dream of Phoebe
use: