What is Sígrblót?

The Norse, like all peoples, celebrated seasonal and astrological changes. What these celebrations were and how they were celebrated has been largely up for interpretation, relying on the Sagas, archeology, and surviving traditions to inform scholars and modern Norse pagans. In Chapter 8 of the Ynglinga Saga by Snorri Sturluson, three great sacrifices are mentioned.

Þá skyldi blóta í móti vetri til árs, 

en at miðjum vetri blóta til gróðrar, hit þriðja at 

sumri, þat var sigrblót.

There should be a sacrifice at the beginning of winter for a good year, 

and in the middle of winter for a good crop, the 

third in summer day, that was the sacrifice for victory.

Of these mentioned festivals, Sígrblót is mentioned by name as a "sacrifice for victory" on "the third in summer day." Unlike Vetrnætr and Yule, Sígrblót is the only mentioned celebration to occur during the summer months, so what exactly happened during this festival, and when exactly would it have been celebrated?

Winter passing would have been a significant turning point for the Nordic people as it meant food and plenty were on their way. For a few months, the people would have to struggle less, as their pantries and storehouses overflowed with abundance. We know from Chapter 8 of the Ynglinga Saga that Sígrblót was celebrated during summer or Náttleysi ("nightless days"), but the exact day is not mentioned. 

In the Heimskringla in the Saga of St. Olaf, there is mention of a feast taking place in Uppsala in the month of Góa.

Í Svíþjóðu var þat forn landssiðr, meðan heiðni var þar, at höfuðblót skyldi vera at Uppsölum at gói. Skyldi þá blóta til friðar ok sigrs konungi sínum, ok skyldu menn þangat soekja um alt Svíaveldi. Skyldi þar þá ok vera þing allra Svía. Þar var ok þá markaðr ok kaupstefna ok stóð viku. En er kristni var í Svíþjóð, þá hélzt þar þó lögþing ok markaðr. En nú síðan er kristni var alsiða í Svíþjóð, en konungar afroektust at sitja at Uppsölum, þá var foerðr markaðrinn ok hafðr kyndilmessu. Hefir þat haldizk alla stund síðan, ok er nú hafðr eigi meiri en stendr þrjá daga. Er þar þing Svía, ok soekja þeir þar til um allt land.

In Sweden it was the old custom, while Heathenry was there, that the most important sacrifice haed to be held at Uppsala in the month of Gói. Sacrifices had to be offered for frith and for the victory of their king, and people had to come there from the entire Swedish realm. There also had to be an assembly of all Swedes, and there was also a market and fair there, and it lasted a week. When Christianity was in Sweden, the legal assembly and market were still held. Now, ever since Christianity became the custom in Sweden, and the kings refused to stay at Uppsala, the market was moved and held at Candlemas. It has been held ever since then, and now it lasts no more than three days. The assembly of the Swedes is there, and they come there from all over the country.

While not mentioned by name, most historians believe this feast would have been Sígrblót as it specifically mentions "victory" despite it occurring during the month of Gói. This is further supported in the Ynglinga saga, Egils saga, and Vatnsdæla saga, which all mention a blót held at the beginning of summer. In the Ynglinga saga, it says,

Eftir um vorið fór Granmar konungur til Uppsala að blóta sem siðvenja var til móti sumri að friður væri. Féll honum þá svo spánn sem hann mundi eigi lengi lifa. Fór hann þá heim í ríki sitt.

In the spring, King Granmar went to Uppsala to make a vow, as was the custom, to the summer for peace. Then he was so struck with the fear that he would not live long. He then returned home to his kingdom.

As mentioned earlier, the Egils saga also mentions a "great summer sacrifice" at Gaular, while Vatnsdæla saga speaks of the witch Ljót and her half son preparing to hold a "blót í mót sumri," “at the beginning of summer.” Combined, these sagas strongly suggest Sígrblót occurred during April or Góa and was a sacrifice for victory, most likely a celebration of the victory of summer's warmth and light over winter's cold and darkness. How Sígrblót was celebrated, however, is largely left up to the interpretation of rather incomplete records.

Unlike other blóts, there are not many references to the celebratory practices of Sígrblót in the sagas, making it difficult to pinpoint exactly what happened during these feasts. Heimskringla contains the only definitive reference from the sagas detailing what would have happened during Sígrblót. The aforementioned passage suggests that a sacrifice was made for peace and victory to their king and that people traveled from all over to be present. We know from other passages in the sagas how these blóts or sacrifices were carried out, which you can read more about in my post What is Vetrnætr or Winter Nights?

Modern scholars, however, question whether or not Chapter 8 of the Ynglinga Saga reflects actual religious practices. In Rudolf Simek's Dictionary of Northern Mythology, Simek asserts that Sígrblót's sacrifice "probably does not correspond to reality as the Spring sacrifice was undoubtedly a sacrifice of fertility." These reservations are echoed in Norse Mythology: A Guide to the Gods, Heroes, Rituals, and Beliefs by John Lindow, who writes, "the summer ceremony, if it was for victory, would coincide with the departure of ships on raiding (and, more mundanely, trading) voyages." While some modern practitioners have suggested the "victory" mentioned during this sacrifice is related to war and battle, many more believe the victory being celebrated is the victory of life over death, summer over winter, or new beginnings over stagnation.

Relying on sources from Germanic regions, which shared a lot of similar customs to Nordic countries, some have suggested Sígrblót may have included ritual mock combats between Summer and Winter to showcase Summer's victory over Winter. This practice is most clearly outlined in Historia de Gentibus Septentrionalibus by Olaus Magnus from 1555, where Magnus details this staged combat between personifications of Summer and Winter that took place during "Summer Finding":

"On the first of May, when the sun is passing through Taurus, the magistrates of the cities commission two squadrons, or cohorts, of riders, consisting of tough young men who make a show as if they are about to advance to some hard battle. Of these the one is commanded by a leader appointed by lot; he bears the name and costume of Winter and, clad in various pelts and armed with pokers, scattering snowballs and chunks of ice to prolong the cold, he rides about as if he has won a victory...

The leader of the troop of riders on the other side, representing summer, is called Count Floral. He is garbed in the green boughs of trees, together with leaves and flowers, which have been found with difficulty, and wears summery clothes that afford little protection. Like Duke Winter, he comes into the city from the countryside, though each from a different place and with different arrangements. Contesting with their lances, they give a public entertainment to demonstrate that summer overcomes winter.

...the favourable opinion of the bystanders, who refuse to tolerate any longer the harsh reign of Winter, confirms the result by a just and proper decision, and to everyone’s joy the victory is awarded."

These battles are further recorded in Grimm's Teutonic Mythology. A traditional song from the Middle Rhine region says:

Der Winter hast verloren;

der Winter liegt gefangen;

und wer nicht dazu kommt,

den schlangen wir mit stangen.

Winter has lost,

Winter lies a prisoner,

and whomever doesn’t agree

we’ll beat with staves.

This, too, shows that these ritual mock battles were commonplace, but unfortunately, we cannot be sure these mock battles would have been performed during Sígrblót. Despite this, many modern practitioners include such mock battles in their celebrations, along with a number of other fun customs such as maypole dancing, sumbles, and the sharing of victories.

This year (2025), Sígrblót falls on April 12th, the fourth full moon after the winter solstice. Keep an eye out for my upcoming post on ways to celebrate Sígrblót, my sacrifice suggestions, feast recipes, and altar inspiration! Until then!

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Njord’s Blessing Spell for Financial Stability

As financial insecurity continues to rise, more and more of us have to penny pinch, uncertain what the future may hold. While things are okay for us now, I know that could suddenly change, especially in light of DOGE, the attempted dismantling of the Department of Education, and the removal of DEI initiatives that allow women like myself to work.

To better ensure financial stability in my home, I am combining magic with practical solutions. This spell calls upon Njord, the Norse god of wealth, prosperity, and the sea, for financial stability and long-term abundance. This spell aligns with Njord’s generous and stabilizing energy, ensuring that prosperity flows into your life like the steady tide. Combined with practical solutions such as turning off unused streaming services, couponing, budgeting, and picking up extra hours at work, I hope we can weather the storm that is quickly approaching us.

What You'll Need

• Blue candle
• Toothpick or other carving utensil
• Bowl of saltwater
• Piece of paper
• Writing utensil
• Coin
• Offering of choice (see details in my guide)

What to Do

This spell is best performed starting on a Thursday or during the New Moon. 

Before beginning this spell, cleanse and consecrate your space and items using your preferred method, followed by your preferred method of grounding and centering. When ready, place the bowl of saltwater in the center of your altar or workspace with the coin beside it and the blue candle behind. Using the toothpick or other carving tool, carve a bind rune composed of Fehu (ᚠ) for wealth and Othala (ᛟ) for household stability, as shown below:

Light the blue candle and stare into the flame, focusing on its warmth and steady glow while you visualize financial stability and prosperity flowing into your life. Hold your intention firmly in your mind, visualizing it blessing all parts of your life. Once you can hold your intention firmly in your mind, call upon Njord by saying, "Njord, Lord of wealth and sea, Steady the tides and favor me. Let my home be safe and sound, With stable wealth that shall abound." 

Sit for a few moments, continuing your visualization of steady finances, an abundant household, and Njord’s calm, protective presence. When ready, write your intention on the piece of paper and fold it three times toward you. Place it under the bowl.

Next, place the coin in the water and say, "As the tides flow in and out, May wealth remain without a doubt. My home is blessed and stable. As I will it, so it shall be."

Allow the candle to burn as you thank Njord for his assistance and leave your offering. Extinguish the candle and leave the candle and bowl on your altar for 8 days, replenishing your offerings each day. 

On the 8th day, relight the candle, and resummon Njord by repeating the previous invocation: "Njord, Lord of wealth and sea, Steady the tides and favor me. Let my home be safe and sound, With stable wealth that shall abound." Remove the folded paper from under the bowl and set it on fire while saying, "As the tides flow in and out, May wealth remain without a doubt. My home is blessed and stable. As I will it, so it shall be."

Carry the coin in your wallet or coin purse as a talisman to attract wealth, and bury the ashes and other spell remains near your front door. Be sure to keep your talisman until its magic wears off. Spending the coin can result in your riches quickly fleeing you, leaving you worse off than before you performed the spell.

Warnings/Modifications/Alternatives:

• When carving anything, always carve away from yourself to avoid injury.
• Do not leave candles burning unattended or near children and pets.
• Remember visualization not necessarily seeing an object in your mind, but instead an incorporation of all senses to bring about the object or intention. When visualizing, it's more about creating those feelings than necessarily seeing the object or outcome in our mind.
• If you can use seawater you have collected, I would encourage you to do so. Seawater is more connected to Njord than saltwater, but saltwater will work in a pinch, especially if made using water from a local source.
• Other candle color options include green or gold for wealth, abundance, and money, white for neutrality, or brown for stability.
• Offerings for Njord include seafood, bread, chocolate coins, dark beer or mead, seashells, or driftwood.
  
  

Why You Did It

Understanding the whys of a spell (or ritual or recipe) is just as important as performing it. It helps you understand the process so you can modify the spell or ritual to suit your needs and helps guide you in writing your own. It's my intention to provide these explanations so that you can build a better understanding of how spells are written and executed so you can modify and build your own spells (the goal of my Spellcrafting Series). 

This spell is best performed at one of two times: Thursday or the New Moon. Thursday is associated with abundance, luck, and wealth due to its connection with Thor, Jupiter, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Lakshmi, who are all deities associated with the aforementioned correspondences. The New Moon, however, is associated with new beginnings, and using the Waxing Moon that follows is associated with fruition and growth. It is not necessary to perform this spell at any particular time, but using magical timings can greatly improve your chances of success.

As always, we begin with cleansing and consecrating, which is always good practice as it brings neutral ingredients into your spells and rituals. A bind rune composed of Fehu (ᚠ) for wealth and Othala (ᛟ) for household stability was carved into the blue candle to unite the two together, aiding in your intention to bring financial stability to your home. A blue candle was used to connect with Njord, symbolizing the sea, his wisdom, and his ability to bring wealth as well as to carry our messages to him. Burning of candles is traditionally done to connect to the Otherworld and send messages from us to the gods, ancestors, and other beings. 

This candle was placed in front of a bowl of saltwater, again representing Njord and his domain, as well as the cleansing energy of the sea, which removes obstacles and blockages that may be preventing financial stability. The bowl, candle, and bind rune together act as sympathetic magic, like attracting like, and thus, bringing your intentions to light and helping you call upon Njord for aid.

Njord is the Nordic god of the sea and wealth. The Nordic people have always heavily relied on the sea for food, as the growing season is short in high northern latitudes. As a result, the ocean was associated with plenty, abundance, and wealth, making Njord the god of such things as well. Invoking him to aid in a spell designed to attract wealth and abundance to you during difficult times is only natural, as he is the one who can provide it, although this spell can be easily modified to call upon any deity for assistance.

These intentions, which were visualized before calling on Njord, were written on a piece of paper and folded toward you three times to help manifest your intention. By folding toward you, you are letting the Universe know you want to bring your intention into your life. The number 3 is associated with harmony, balance, and stability, thus reinforcing your intention. The paper was placed under the bowl after placing a coin in the water, which represents wealth and money, which are required for financial stability. 

These items were left for 8 days to "marinate" or build power and strength. The number 8 is associated with wealth and abundance, which was followed daily with an offering to Njord as thanks for helping ensure the success of your spell. After 8 days, the paper was burned to release our intention and allow it to blossom.

The majority of the spell remains were buried near your front door to draw something to you, particularly prosperity, abundance, and success. The coin, however, was charged over the course of the 8 days, making it a powerful talisman that can be carried to ensure continued financial luck and stability.

Want to break this spell? I am not sure why you would want to break this spell, but if you are no longer interested in maintaining financial stability, spend the coin you empowered. You'll see your wealth and money quickly leave you. However, this spell naturally wanes over time, without the sudden loss of wealth, so I suggest giving it time instead of spending the coin. After the spell has worn off, perform it again to recharge the coin, or not.

Remember to record this ritual in your Book of Shadows or use my Spell/Ritual Worksheet for reference later.

***

I know we are far better off than most and, as such, have continued to tithe and assist our local food banks to engage in community care. If you are struggling, use the community resources available to you. You deserve to live a happy, healthy life free of struggle. I wish each and every one of you the best and will continue to support community care and aid wherever possible. I truly believe we can outlast this together.

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Book Review: Golbinproofing One's Chicken Coop by Reginald Bakeley

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I laughed the entire way through Goblinproofing One's Chicken Coop: And Other Practical Advice in Our Campaign Against the Fairy Kingdom by Reginald Bakeley. Bakeley, without a doubt, loathes fairies and does nothing to hide this fact in his writing. While I disagree with Bakeley in some key areas, his reasoning, expertise, and methods are sound. If you wish to rid yourself of fae and protect yourself against the good folk, Bakeley has you covered.

Goblinproofing One's Chicken Coop is divided into two parts: noticing fairy activity and preparing for a fairy assault. Bakeley leaves no stone unturned, covering everything from ridding your home of brownies to protecting your chickens from goblins to cooking gnomes. Yes, you read that right...cooking gnomes which are apparently "lean, flavourful, and dense" but "prone to dryness." I can't help but laugh at how serious yet often unserious this guide feels. When explaining that a letter praising your home's brownie must be written, Bakeley says, "In my experience it is easier to write such a letter whilst biting into an old belt, although this can get in the way of the oft-consulted whisky tumbler." Woe is me who has to write a kind letter to a dreaded fae! Despite his apparent hatred, he does find some faeries useful, such as fae livestock and flower fae. He doesn't necessarily love them, but he does see the value in using them to his advantage. 

Bakeley's disdain practically drips off the page, and while he may hate most of them, I do not. In my experience, the fae have been more helpful than harmful. In fact, gnomes are highly regarded in my family, and the thought of eating them is extremely disrespectful. This may be attributed to cultural differences, but I would never think to disrespect the nature spirits I have worked so hard to develop a relationship with. I do agree that not all fae have our best interests in mind, and they can be tricky, but I don't believe they are deliberately malicious; they simply have a different view of the world than we do, one made abundantly clear in folklore from around the world. Needless to say, I don't have to agree with Bakeley's approach, but I do see the value in what he has to say, as sometimes you need to get rid of an unwanted guest, and he certainly knows how.

Because of Bakeley's tone and shrewd writing style, the book is extremely short and easy to get through. I was able to read it entirely in an afternoon while waiting on NPCs to spawn in World of Warcraft. It's chock full of humor, folklore, and practical applications and is sure to inspire even the most stalwart of fairy lovers to think twice about their inclinations. I highly recommend picking up a copy of Goblinproofing One's Chicken Coop by Reginald Bakeley just for the fun of it and encourage you to read it outside on a bright, clear afternoon. Who knows what may be rustling in the hedgerows around your home?

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Harnessing Spring’s Magic: Herbal Allies for Health and Witchcraft

If I haven't already made it abundantly clear, working with plants is one of the key tenets of my magical practice, just like the hedge witches who came before me. The relationships I have built with the plants in my garden and around my home are precious, allowing me to cast spells, develop rituals, and create healing medicines. As the seasons change, so do the plants I work with. Part of practicing local, animistic witchcraft means shifting with the seasons and relying on what is available. That isn't to say I don't bring in some plants that aren't necessarily prevalent this time of year, but I am definitely more cognizant of my choices each season.

Seasonal plant allies are an excellent source of magic and healing, bringing a potent natural element to your work. But what is a plant ally exactly? 

A plant ally is a plant that you have a close relationship with, much like that of a close friend. Just like real friendships, your plant allies shift and change as you grow. Some will be fair-weather friends, while others will stick with you through the thick of it. They come into our lives to guide us, challenge us, and encourage us to face life's challenges and adventures.

How you connect with your plant allies is entirely personal and a topic for another post, but developing these relationships is critical for those interested in working with plants in their magical or healing practice. We are but one spirit in the cosmos, no greater or smaller than others. Respecting others is paramount to an ethical practice, and I take it quite seriously.

Spring is a time for rejuvenation, rebirth, and new beginnings. However, it's also a time for hay fever, asthma, and other seasonal allergy symptoms. Flowers are blooming, life bursting forth for the first time in months, sprinkling the landscape with vibrant colors and filling the air with pollen. This rebirth is the perfect time for manifestation magic, as well as creating healing remedies to treat allergy-related symptoms.

In today's post, we will journey together to get to know the plants I rely on most during the spring months for witchcraft and healing. I have grouped the plants based on need and offered alternatives where possible.

For Fertile Opportunities

I always associate spring with new beginnings and fertility, and I am not alone in this. Spring is a time of rebirth: the snow is melting, the weather is warming, flowers are returning, and baby animals are being born. This is the perfect time for fertility magic and medicine, whether you are looking for fertile opportunities or family planning.

The herbs on this list are magically and medicinally associated with fertility, abundance, and new opportunities.

Red Clover (Trifolium pratense): Quick to grow and bloom as soon as the weather warms, red clover contains isoflavones, which have an estrogen-like effect on the body, allowing them to help reduce menopausal symptoms. It also contains phytoestrogens, which help regulate hormone production and improve the uterine lining, thus helping with implantation and overall fertility in women. In men, some studies indicate that red clover supports prostate function and potentially increases sperm count, but more research is needed. Due to its abundant nature and how fast it reproduces, red clover is magically associated with fertility, abundance, love, fidelity, and strength. Add to spells, rituals, and remedies to strengthen relationships, ensure your partner is faithful, increase fertility, and bring abundance.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris): Thyme begins growing and blooming early to mid-spring, and its rapid growth has led to its deep connection with fertility and abundance. Wherever you plant thyme, expect more to soon sprout, taking over entire garden beds if allowed. Many studies have suggested that thyme mimics estrogen's effect on the body and improves overall sperm quality, thus improving overall fertility. It is also naturally antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory as it contains thymol and carvacrol, making it perfect for treating infections, both topically and internally. As such, add thyme to spells, rituals, and remedies for fertility, sowing seeds, abundance, health, and productivity.

Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus): Blooming in late spring and early summer, the chasteberry isn't harvested until late fall, but it stores well so it can be used all year. Chasteberry has historically been used to treat infertility and irregularities in menstruation in women, and it is still used in many countries for these purposes. Research suggests that chasteberries are capable of decreasing levels of prolactin, which helps rebalance other hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, which can reduce PMS symptoms, help regulate menstruation, and increase fertility. Magically, the chasteberry is associated with chastity (surprise, surprise), fertility, and the divine feminine. Use in spells, rituals, and remedies for fertility and femininity.

Other potential plant allies for fertility, new beginnings, and abundance include maca root (Lepidium meyenii), catnip (Nepeta cataria), parsley (Petroselinum crispum), and raspberry (Rubus idaeus).

For Finding Balance in Change

Spring is an in-between time and is marked by the spring equinox when the day and night are equal in length. As such, spring is a time of balance, reminding us to recenter after a long slumber. This sudden change in weather, especially in the south, can sometimes lead to imbalances in the body and mind, resulting in sickness, so why not rely on your plant allies to prevent this?

The herbs on this list are magically and medicinally associated with balance, action, renewal, and cleansing.

Larix (Larch arabinogalactan): Larix is a deciduous conifer, meaning, unlike other conifers, it sheds it needles in the autumn only to regrow them in the spring. These newly grown needles are high in arabinogalactan, a prebiotic that helps balance the microbiome of the gut. It's also high in antioxidants, specifically polyphenols and flavonoids, which help the body adapt and adjust to seasonal changes, helping the body maintain balance while promoting seasonal well-being. Magically, larix is associated with rebirth, balance, action, and emotional strength. Use in spells, rituals, and remedies to remain balanced during times of change, take action, renew, and strengthen resolve.

Chickweed (Stellaria media): Chickweed begins growing in early to late spring and continues through the summer months when it produces small white flowers. This self-seeding annual helps increase metabolism and cell permeability, allowing for the absorption of nutrients and the removal of metabolic waste. As such, it helps cleanse the body, aiding in weight loss, reducing inflammation, and bringing overall balance. Magically, chickweed is associated with balance, peace of mind, healing, and fidelity, making it perfect for spells, rituals, and remedies for balancing the body, mind, and spirit during times of change.

Cleavers (Galium aparine): Cleavers is among my favorite spring plants; its bristly, slender stalk and whorled leaves spread quickly across my garden beds in a matter of days. While generally viewed as a weed, I allow cleavers to grow for quite some time before pulling them to make my favorite spring pesto. They are known for their ability to cleanse the blood and lymph and aid in digestion while also improving overall immune health, making them perfect for awakening the body after a long winter slumber. Magically, they are associated with protection, cleansing, and binding. Use in spells, rituals, and remedies for cleansing, protection, and balance.

Other potential plant allies for balancing the body, mind, and spirit, protecting your peace, realigning, and strengthening your resolve include elderberry (Sambucus nigra), 

For Awakening After A Restful Slumber

While the winter season brings a time for rest, relaxation, and slowing down, spring brings the awakening. It's a time of action, new beginnings, and springing forward into plans. This is when you should set those goals and resolutions and devise a plan of attack. Sow the seeds of change now for the later successes. However, winter can leave you feeling sluggish and overwhelmed, unprepared for starting a new adventure.

The herbs on this list are magically and medicinally associated with awakening the body, mind, and spirit, energizing your body, encouraging health and wellness, and letting go of the past so you can take on the future!

Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica): Harvested between late March and April, stinging nettle is one of spring's most nourishing plants. It is naturally detoxifying, especially for the kidneys and urinary tract, and naturally helps "build" blood due to its high iron content, thus improving circulation. Its nutritive properties help bolster the body, stave off physical exhaustion, awaken the mind, and energize the mind in a non-stimulating way. Magically, stinging nettles are associated with strength, healing, protection, and the element Fire, making this warming herb perfect for stimulating both your body, mind, and spirit, as well as your spells and rituals. Add to stinging nettles spells, rituals, and remedies to clear your mind, give you strength, energize, and stimulate health and wellness.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale): Dandelions are the herald of spring in most places, the lush, yellow blooms being among the first to arrive. Being among the first to bloom, they are the first food source for many insects, including honey bees. Their fresh greens are high in nutrients such as iron, potassium, folate, and vitamins C, A, E, and B6, which help to restore the body naturally and prepare it for the coming physical activity of spring. The roots are often used to stimulate digestion and appetite, helping to promote bile production in the liver. Magically, dandelions are associated with happiness, joy, hope, and balance. Add the flowers, leaves, or roots to spells, rituals, and remedies for joy, happiness, health, and balance.

Horsetail (Equisiteum spp.): One of Earth's oldest plants, horsetail shoots arrive in early spring, with harvesting occurring late April through May. Horsetail contains over 35% silica, which is readily absorbed by the body and used to build collagen, thus strengthening connecting tissues in the joints as well as teeth, skin, nails, and hair. It also contains quercetin, a natural anti-inflammatory, and helps flush uric acid from the body. This makes it perfect for joint health and overall movement, allowing you to spring into action as the weather warms. Magically, horsetail is associated with strengthening resolve, setting and maintaining boundaries, commitment, and letting go of the past. Use horsetail in spells, rituals, and remedies for strength, awakening the body, shedding the past, and committing to the future.

Other potential plant allies for awakening the mind, body, and spirit include ginger (Zingiber officinale), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), and eucalyptus (Eucalyptus obliqua).

For Breathing Easy & Fighting Allergies

Oh, allergy season! As the flowers blossom, they release pollen, which many people are unfortunately allergic to. The sudden swings in temperature from cold to warm and back to cold can weaken the immune system, leaving our bodies tired and unprotected. Colds and flu are prevalent in the spring, along with asthma.

The herbs on this list are magically and medicinally associated with lung health, overall wellness, cleansing, and purification, making them perfect for breathing easy this spring season.

Forsythia (Forsythia spp.): Forsythia is one of my favorite flowers of spring, its yellow buds blooming early in March through April. Its blooming season is short but powerful. Studies have shown that forsythia inhibits mast-cell-meditated allergic reactions, reducing inflammation and symptoms related to both seasonal and non-seasonal allergies. Unlike other herbs, forsythia specifically targets air passages, reducing inflammation in those areas to help treat respiratory illnesses. Magically, forsythia is associated with anticipation, hope, optimism, and new beginnings, making it perfect for spells, rituals, and remedies for starting new projects, clearing the way and removing obstacles, and vitality.

Lilac (Syringa spp.): While commonly planted for its lovely scent, lilac's medicinal properties are often overlooked. Lilac leaves are naturally anti-inflammatory and high in antioxidants, helping to soothe respiratory symptoms, especially coughs and asthma symptoms, and promoting overall lung health. Lilac's cooling properties also make it perfect for treating hay fever and other related allergy symptoms, with some studies suggesting it may be a mild antihistamine. Magically, lilac is associated with healing, exorcism, protection, and banishing negativity, making it perfect for spells, rituals, and remedies for fighting allergies, breathing easier, removing obstacles, and promoting overall well-being.

Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana): This hardy root is part of the mustard family and has been cultivated for centuries for overall sinus health due to its pungent and fiery flavor. Horseradish is naturally high in sulfur compounds, such as allyl isothiocyanate, which causes the unmistakable heat that travels quickly through the nasal passages upon consumption. This results in an immediate clearing of the sinuses as mucus is broken up and expelled. It's also naturally antimicrobial, helping to treat and clear respiratory issues such as bronchitis, sinusitis, and even allergies. Magically, horseradish is known for removing obstacles, purification, cleansing, and exorcisms, making it perfect for spells, rituals, and remedies for such purposes.

Other potential plant allies for breathing easily, fighting allergies, and removing obstacles include goldenrod (Solidago spp.), elderflower (Sambucus nigra), violet (Viola spp.), and peppermint (Mentha piperita).

***

As the wheel turns toward spring, these plant allies can help ensure you are happy and healthy for the coming months. Magically, they can empower and enrich your spells and rituals, timing them with seasonal changes and encouraging a bright and prosperous future. How you work with these plant allies is entirely up to you, but remember to always ask them for their assistance and thank them for whatever they provide for you in return. Maintaining these relationships is important and worthwhile.

Is there a plant you like to work with during the spring months that I failed to include on this list? Let me know in the comments below!

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Magical and Medicinal Uses of Nutmeg

Gender: Masculine
Planet: Jupiter
Element: Fire
Powers: Fidelity, Health, Love, Luck, Money, Wealth

Magical Uses and History: Nutmeg derives its name from the Latin "nux," meaning nut and "muscus," meaning musk, an ode to its unique and unforgettable aroma. Endemic to a chain of islands off the coast of Indonesia known as the Banda Islands, nutmeg has a long and bloody history as it was one of the most valuable spices harvested and traded during the height of the spice trade. Around the 1400s, Arabian-Persian merchants happened upon the island chain by chance but were pleasantly surprised to find not only nutmeg but also mace and cloves, spices the Western world had previously never seen. These merchants immediately began exporting said spices to Europe, where they surged in popularity. All three spices were new and exotic, and nutmeg soon became prized not only for its flavor and aroma but also for its medicinal properties. 

During the outbreak of the bubonic plague, it was believed nutmeg was a potential cure and preventative. It was often placed into the beaks of plague masks to purify the air and mask the smell of death. This tradition has carried over into modern "Theives" blends, which are said to be based on remedies used during this time. Not only was it used to cure and prevent the plague, but also gas and chronic indigestion, especially among women who were said to carry nutmeg and a grater in their pocket to grate over their food or drink as a carminative. Ornate silver boxes were commonly used to store this valuable spice within the voluminous skirts and petticoats of the elite, while smaller wooden boxes were used by the poorer classes for the same purpose. These boxes were roughly an inch or two in height and large enough to store a full-sized nutmeg and a small grater. It was also used to prevent sore throats, scarlet fever, ailments of the spleen, headaches, fevers, bad breath, and even hemorrhoids. As such, nutmeg became well known for its potential medicinal properties and is therefore often magically associated with health and wellness. Add it to spells and rituals for health and wellness. Burn it as an incense or use it in an oil diffuser in the room of the sick to promote healing or add to food for the same purpose. Carry on your person to prevent illness or hang in your home to protect your family. Amy Blackthorn suggests drawing a circle in nutmeg essential oil around a family photo to prevent disease and illness from infecting your family.

Nutmeg's history, however, was not all sunshine and rainbows. In the 17th century, the Dutch set sail to the "Spice Islands" where they proceeded to torture, genocide, and enslave the people indigenous to the Banda Islands to take control of nutmeg production and took every step imaginable to ensure no other countries or traders were able to get their hands on nutmeg seeds, even going so far as to sabotage seed stores. For nearly 200 years, the Dutch controlled the trade of nutmeg, inflating prices by hoarding large amounts in warehouses to control distribution or even setting fire to any surplus to keep demand high. Wooden replicas were sometimes added to batches of nutmeg to dupe customers, thus keeping prices high and distribution low. These inflated prices meant nutmeg became less and less available to the poor as a potential spice, leaving only the wealthy to enjoy its culinary and medicinal uses. As such, nutmeg became associated with money and wealth and can be used in spells and rituals for such purposes. Annoint money, wallets, or cash registers, sprinkle on green candles, burn as an incense, or diffuse as an essential oil to attract money and wealth, or place an entire nutmeg in your cash register or kitchen for the same purpose. Hollowed-out nutmeg can also be used to make charms for the same purpose.

While most of nutmeg's folklore consists of its uses for health and wealth, a select few regions viewed nutmeg as a good luck charm. In 1147, Saint Hildegard wrote that obtaining a nutmeg at the New Year and carrying it in your pocket would prevent you from all sorts of ill-luck, such as breaking even the smallest of bones. This belief remained popular well into the twentieth century and even later in some rural areas, thus linking nutmeg with luck. Some report that hollowing nutmeg, filling it with mercury, sealing it in wax, and wrapping it in a green cloth will bring you luck in games of chance, while Cunningham suggests creating a good luck necklace of nutmeg, star anise, and tonka beans. Either way, there are plenty of ways to include nutmeg in luck magic.

Due to its warming nature, nutmeg is also associated with love and fidelity. During the 16th century, a monk apparently praised it for its ability to stimulate the male anatomy, much like modern-day Viagra. It was sometimes added to food and drinks to stimulate arousal or attract a lover. There are a host of spells and rituals across multiple cultures detailing nutmeg's use in attracting and keeping a lover. In Zanzibar, women supposedly grate fresh nutmeg into their porridge in anticipation of their wedding night. An old Creole spell says that sprinkling nutmeg on someone's left shoe at midnight for seven straight days will drive them mad with love or keep them faithful. Most sources state this is specifically to encourage a woman to fall in love with you, but I can see of no reason it wouldn't work on others as well. According to Cunningham, to ensure your partner's fidelity, you can cut nutmeg into four pieces, then bury one, throw one off a cliff, burn the third, and boil the fourth. Sip the nutmeg infusion and carry the boiled nutmeg with you so no one will tempt your lover. As such, add nutmeg to food, spells, and rituals to promote love and fidelity.

Nutmeg can be used in a number of spells, including:

   Love Spells

   Fidelity Spells

   Protection Magic

   Wealth Magic

   Prosperity Spells

   Luck Magic

   Healing Spells

Medicinal Uses: Nutmeg is naturally rich in antioxidants, which helps prevent signs of aging and can prevent such diseases as cancer, heart disease, and liver disease. It is also naturally antibacterial and can be used to treat bad breath, inflamed gums, tooth decay, and gingivitis. As a stimulant and carminative, nutmeg stimulates the gastrointestinal tract, alleviating symptoms of gas, colic, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. However, nutmeg is considered an abortifacient in high dosages and, therefore, should not be consumed in large amounts by those who are pregnant or wishing to become pregnant. Some suggest nutmeg can be used to induce hallucinations as it contains myristicin, a psychoactive substance. However, nutmeg only contains trace amounts of myristicin, and nutmeg poisoning is more likely to occur than a psychological trip in large enough doses. As such, avoid the use of nutmeg in large amounts. It is recommended to use no more than 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg every 12 hours to prevent poisoning in adults and no more than 1/8 teaspoon for children over the age of 3.

Preparation and Dosage: To create an infusion (for adults), combine 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg with 1 cup of boiling water. Allow the mixture to steep for 15 minutes before drinking. Drink up to twice a day or once every 12 hours. As a tincture, take 20-30 drops up to 4 times per day. Nutmeg can also be used topically as an oil or cream to reduce soreness and inflammation.

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*You may notice there is a new design. This is because I lost access to Photoshop when I upgraded my computer, and I am not relying on Canva. From here on out, all printables will be made in Canva and will have the design seen above. I did my best to replicate exactly what I created before, so theme it should work well with my other printables and not take away from the aesthetic. 

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