A part of the Craft I really enjoy is the the synergy that results when combining the elements with intent. The more elemental “threads” I can weave together while casting the more effective my spell becomes. This is due both to the inherent power of my “threads” (ritual tools, stones, oils, herbs, etc.) as well as how they help me focus on my magickal goal to a greater degree.
For example, if I’m casting a spell to protect my home I incorporate as many aspects of the element of fire as I can (fire is the element that rules protection spells). I burn fire incense (like frankincense, clove, or cinnamon), charge fire stones (such as citrine, bloodstone, or garnet), use the tool my tradition associates with fire (the wand), and drink something made from herbs/plants ruled by fire. It’s this last item I wanted to write about in this post – strengthening spell craft by “sipping” fire.
Try drinking one of the following when casting your next fire-based spell. Every plant/herb listed below is ruled by the fire element. (You could even charge the herbs with your intent/magickal goal before making the tea for extra spell potency.)
Yerba Mate (YUR-bah MAW-tay) tea
This is my current “fiery” favorite. A relative of holly – a plant sacred to many Wiccans for its association with the God – it has a rich and distinct flavor as well as many health benefits. Visit the link for detailed info.
Apparently angelica is quite bitter, but is reported to ease digestive issues including bloating and minor cramps.
This particular recipe is a mixture of basil leaves and chai tea. I haven’t tried it myself yet, but it sounds tasty.
Chrysanthemum tea
Cinnamon or clove tea
Coffee
No surprise that the world’s favorite “get up and go” beverage is ruled by fire. It’s also interesting that some claim coffee has affinity with the sign of Leo. This makes sense, given the “celebrity” status this drink has been elevated to over the last 20 years, mostly due to the marketing efforts of a major Seattle corporation…one that won’t get free advertising here because its coffee is over-roasted and bitter. 🙂
Though perhaps more palatable than the angelica tea, you may have to be really fond of ginger to enjoy this. It’s apparently a great cure for the common cold.
Mullein tea
Orange, tangerine, or pomegranate tea
When following the link, see the tea recipe under “Healing Properties and Uses” toward the bottom of the page. Another tea I’m looking forward to trying.
As recommended by Edgar Cayce. A recipe appears here.
St. John‘s Wort tea
Sarsaparilla, prepared as a decoction.
(A decoction is created by immersing the roots in water and cooking at a low boil for 10-20 minutes. This creates a more concentrated beverage than an infusion or a tea.)
Scott Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs was used in the writing of this post. I recommend this book highly – it’s an indispensable resource on magickal herbal lore.
Under a Violet Sun 