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Are you looking for a way to enhance your magickal practise and connect with the energy of the cosmos? Look no further than astral magick and planetary herbs. Astral magick is all about using the movements and relative positions of the planets to time magick. This means it is a type of magick that uses correspondences to the planets and astrological timing to cast a spell. It also includes the astrological correspondences of plants and herbs as part of spell work.
Plants have been used for centuries in various forms of magick and healing, and their celestial associations make them a valuable addition to any spiritual routine. From the fiery energy of Mars to the lunar influence of the Moon, each planet has its own unique herb correspondences that can help you tap into its power. In this article, we’ll explore the secrets of planetary herbs and provide tips for incorporating them into your magickal practise. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just starting out, these tips will help you unlock the full potential of planetary herbs and connect with the energy of the universe in a whole new way. So, grab your mortar and pestle, and let’s get started!
Understanding the properties of planetary herbs
Before diving into the specific correspondences of each planet, it’s important to understand the general properties of planetary herbs. These plants are believed to carry the energy and essence of their corresponding planet, making them powerful tools for connecting with that energy in your magickal practise. Some of the planetary correspondences we use at Magenta School of Magick were documented in a 1652 medical text by Nicholas Culpeper, but other texts detailing planetary correspondences date back even earlier, such as the Picatrix.
What these texts have in common is that they discuss the various attributes of the planets, and how plants and herbs associated with those planets can be used either in medicine or for magickal purposes. For example, herbs associated with Mars are known for their fiery energy and ability to promote courage and strength, while those associated with Venus are often used for love spells and attracting positive relationships. By understanding the general properties of planetary herbs, you can begin to choose the right herbs for your specific magickal goals.
It’s also important to note that planetary herbs can be used in a variety of forms, including teas, tinctures, oils, and incense. Each form has its own unique benefits and can be used in different types of spells and rituals. Experiment with different forms to find what works best for you.
Planetary correspondences and their influence on herb selection
We know from astrology that each planet has its own unique correspondences. These correspondences then work their way down to all the plants, rocks, colours and symbols we use on Earth in magick. It is these correspondences that can help guide your plant and herb selection when crafting spells and rituals. Here are some of the most commonly used planetary correspondences that we find in those old magickal texts:
The Sun is useful for magickal work all about “the self”, such as confidence and charisma and uses plants such as rosemary, chamomile, saffron, peony.
The Moon is used in magick connected to emotions and the home and we can use cabbage, ivy, poppy, moonwort etc for these purposes.
Mercury can be used for magickal work all about communication and learning skills quickly and this is seen in plants like lavender, fern, hazel, parsley.
Venus can be used to bring small gains, balance and pleasant experiences and apple, mint, wheat or cherry can be used for this.
Mars can be used for magickal work involving conflict, increasing vitality or taking decisive action and using plants like hawthorn, garlic, thistle or nettle can help with this.
Jupiter can be used to increase luck and magnify and enhance all good things which are the associations connected with bay, sage, oak, and dandelion.
Saturn can be used to restrict any undesirable behaviour and we can use moss, comfrey, elm and barley connected with this type of magick.
Although the texts we use were written long before the outer planets were discovered, we know that we can still recognise and use their power in magick.
It is also important to note that planets rule certain days of the week and hours in the day. By incorporating all of these correspondences into your herb selection and when you gather them, you can align your magickal practise with the energy of the planets and maximise the effectiveness of your spells and rituals.
Incorporating planetary herbs into your spellwork
Now that you understand the properties of planetary herbs and their correspondences, it’s time to start incorporating them into your spellwork. There are countless ways to do this, but here are a few ideas to get you started:
Add herbs to your spells: When casting a spell, consider adding herbs that correspond with the energy you’re trying to attract or manifest. For example, if you’re creating a spell for abundance, you might add some bay leaves (associated with Jupiter and magnifying good things) or mint (associated with Venus and nice things).
Use oils or incense from planetary herbs in your rituals and spells: Using oils or incense is a powerful way to connect with the energy of the planets in order to enhance the energy of your rituals and spells.
Create herbal sachets: Herbal sachets can be carried with you, placed under your pillow, or hung in your home to attract or repel certain energies. Choose herbs that correspond with your intention and create a sachet to carry with you throughout the day.
Add herbs to your bath: Taking a magickal bath is a great way to cleanse your own energy and connect with the energy of the planets. Add herbs that correspond with the energy you’re trying to attract or manifest to your bathwater.
In addition to incorporating planetary herbs into your spellwork, you can also create powerful herb blends and potions using these plants. Here are a few ideas to try, and obviously don’t ingest any plants that are poisonous!
Planetary potions and tinctures: Create your own blends of planetary herbal teas and tinctures to use in your spellwork. For example, you might create a blend of hops, garlic and onion for potions associated with Mars energy or chamomile and saffron for potions associated with the Sun.
Planetary herb salves: A salve is a concentrated herbal extract that can be applied to the body or used in spellwork. Create your own planetary herb salve using a base of oil and beeswax and the corresponding herbs.
The importance of setting intentions when working with planetary herbs
When working with planetary herbs, it’s important to set clear intentions for your magickal practise. What do you hope to achieve with your spells and rituals? What energy are you trying to attract or repel? Does that align with the planetary correspondence you are drawing from? By setting clear intentions, you can focus your energy and make the most of your magickal practise.
It’s also important to remember to be open to the opportunities that come your way. Magick still relies on action to be complete. This means that while spells and rituals can be powerful tools for manifesting your desires, you must also take practical steps toward achieving your goals. Use your magickal practise to enhance your efforts, but don’t rely solely on it to bring about change.
Safety precautions when working with planetary herbs
So we’ve mentioned earlier about not ingesting plants and herbs that are very obviously poisonous. It’s important to take safety precautions when working with plants and herbs. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Research any herbs before using them: Make sure you understand the properties and potential side effects of any herbs you plan to use in your magickal practise. If you don’t know what it’ll do to you, then don’t use it!
Use herbs in moderation: Remember that herbs can be potent, so use them in moderation and follow any recommended dosage guidelines. Some herbs can be toxic if ingested in large quantities, so use caution when consuming herbal teas or tinctures. Also seek medical advice in case any plants and herbs will interfere with any medicines you regularly take.
Check for allergies: If you have allergies or sensitivities to certain herbs, be sure to avoid them or use them with caution.
Sourcing planetary herbs and ethical considerations
We feel that using plants and herbs that correspond to planets is one way of building an ethical practise. This is because there are so many more options for rituals and spellwork when looking at the various available plants. This should help avoid overusing resources. When sourcing planetary herbs, it’s important to consider the ethics of your sources. For example, we try to only use plants and herbs that are local to us, and that grow in abundance. We collect plants and herbs throughout the year and keep stock. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Respect the earth: When harvesting herbs, be sure to do so in a way that respects the earth and its natural resources. Only take what you need, only take what is wild and does not belong to any one community already, and please try to avoid damaging the environment.
Consider ethical sourcing practises: When purchasing herbs, look for companies that use ethical sourcing practises and support sustainable agriculture.
Grow your own herbs: Consider growing your own planetary herbs to ensure their quality and sustainability.
Final thoughts
Incorporating planetary herbs into your magickal practise can be a powerful way to connect with the energy of the universe and enhance your spells and rituals. By understanding the properties and correspondences of these powerful plants, you can unlock their full potential and take your magickal practise to the next level. Remember to set clear intentions, take safety precautions, and consider the ethics of your sourcing practises. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to harnessing the power of planetary herbs in your magickal practise.
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