BoS Prompt 24: Real Dangers of Stones, Herbs and Essential Oils!

Link to previous prompts: http://ppwwmm.blogspot.co.uk/2017/11/cauldroneers-bos-prompts.html

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Prompt 24. Sunday 30th September 2018 - The 24th prompt will be..  Real Dangers of Stones, Herbs and Essential Oils!

I have previously done a number of blogs on Stones, Herbs, Oils etc..  Infact BoS Prompt Number 9 I believe was on this subjects but only on the positive uses and information found HERE.  Today I thought I'd bring you a blog which contains some very real health risks of these items and also dangers..

As Rumpelstiltskin says “All Magic Comes With A Price, Dearie” but what if some of those prices can be avoided?

In magick, much like all things, some items are not good for us, our pets / familiars / animals, our families and friends (people) and in all honesty even giving these things to your enemies could potentially land you in prison with a manslaughter charge.  Oh dear..  So let’s look at some of those potential hazards.  First I’m not going to mention the absolute obvious stuff, I’m sure you have a reasonable knowledge of right vs wrong and what could be potentially dangerous.  But I’m here to fill in just some of the lesser known hazards and side effects of use and actions..  

That said please don’t let this blog detour you from practicing as practicing is very important!!  Just be mindful and do your research :) – As said the internet is a wealthy resource of information for all walks of life and interests.

Let us begin. 

Crystals & (Semi) Precious Stones etc..

Crystals, Semi-Precious and Precious Stones are sourced in a manner of different ways while most are commonly, as assumed, mined from the ground.  Some however are mined from wetter climates, some drier, and some are mined not from the ground but from fallen meteorites and space debris!!  Some however aren’t mined at all like the Cubic Zirconia oh yes the ever so popular fake Diamond which embraces most engaged ladies hands is actually a man made stone.  Applying research can save you the upset of fakes or damaging your crystals and stones eg: 

Cubic Zirconia (CZ) is created from the cubic crystalline or crystalized form of zirconium dioxide (ZrO2).  It is a synthetic hard material that to the naked eye being optically flawless, low cost, durable and usually colourless makes for a much cheaper Diamond dupe or replica.  Cubic Zirconia was first discovered in 1892.  It has a high melting point of 2750 °C or 4976 °F.  

However there are a few tell tail signs that the stone is a CZ and not a real Diamond the first being that if you look closely 10+ magnify zoom you will be able to tell a difference in Colour, Clarity, Cut and Carat Weight.  

Some other tell tail differences include: 

- Use a black light and if it doesn't glow under UV light then you probably have CZ and not a real Diamond.

- CZ retains heat and can be tested by going to a cold location, breath upon the stone, the hot air will fog any CZ while a real diamond will remain unchanged.

- Another heat test (though more permanent) using tweezers hold the stone over a light flame for around 40-50 seconds and then immediately drop into ice water a real diamond will not react however a CZ will shatter or break under the extreme temperature changes.

- You can see right through CZ and read print this is often known as the newspaper test.

- Place the loose stone in a glass of water a diamond due to its density will sink where as a CZ will usually float.

So from this information we can deduct that we don’t want to be subjecting our Cubic Zirconia stones to extreme changes of temperature, if we’re trying to fool people we’re carrying around a big Diamond and not a CZ we may wish to avoid black lights, anything that could create fog or even water with loose stones.  Just for some examples.

However that’s just one type of stone which is a synthetic man made stone as mentioned.  Some other man made stones or dyed stones may include Agates, Apache Tears, Howlite, Malachite, Marble, Moonstone, Obsidian and Pargasite but to name a few.  Which we may wish to look into the properties of those.  I know some people prefer to use only natural grown, coloured or sourced stones within their practices.  I happened to of onced purchased a piece of blue Lapis Lazuli which got wet by accident while in a white silk pouch and the silk pouch turned blue and grey where the dye ran!!  - Even thought Lapis lazuli is found in limestone in the Kokcha River valley of Badakhshan province in northeastern Afghanistan.

Water Damaged Stones:

Some stones can also be dissolved, rust or damaged by water!  Here's an example of some of those stones:

• Calcite (will dissolve)
• Carnelian (salt water can cause fractures)
• Galena (will rust)
• Halite (will dissolve)
• Hematite  (can rust)
• Labradorite (will dissolve)
• Lepidolite (will flake apart)
• Lodestone (will rust)
• Malachite (can break in hot water)
• Mica (will flake apart)
• Moldavite (can break in hot water)
• Muscovite (will flake apart)
• Opals (can crack/ break)
• Pearls (will lose luster and can break)
• Pyrite (combined with water produces sulfuric acid)
• Selenite (will dissolve)
• Turquoise (will fade)
• Obsidian (all forms can break from extreme liquid temperatures)
• Ulexite ( will dissolve)

Sun Damage:

Some stones will fade as a result of being exposed to the sun.  Some of these are more directly while some will fade just from being in a sunny room.  It's usually advised you keep stones in cloths or bags to prevent from such damage.  Here's an example of some of those stones: Aventurine, Amethyst, Aquamarine, Beryl, Citrine, Kunzite, Sapphires, Fluorite, Rose Quartz, Smokey Quartz

Fragile stones: 

Although Amber & Opal may not fade in the Sun, they can become brittle from the sun causing them to crack.

While stones like Selenite are quite fragile and can chip or smash just from knocking them.

Some other apparently brittle stones and minerals include but are not limited to: Cerussite, Chrysoberyl, Dolomite, Fluorite, Grossular Garnet, Hessonite, Lazulite, Malachite, Rhodonite, Rutile, Scheelite, Sodalite, Smithsonite, Turquoise, Unarovite, Vesuvianite, Watermelon Tourmaline 

Toxic stones: 

Some stones even give off bad health properties if prolonged contact such as worn in jewellery or put into drinking water as many crystals and stones are actually water soluble but will expel toxic minerals into the water that you definitely do NOT want to drink.   So here are a few crystals that are able to go in water but you should definitely NOT use to make elixirs or prolonged worn jewellery:

• Amazonite - Contains copper
• Black Tourmaline - Contains aluminum
• Emerald - Contains aluminum
• Fluorite - Contains fluorine, can cause extremely painful skeletal disease
• Pyrite - Contains heavy metals
• Coral - Organic material, may contain pathogens
• Garnet - Contains aluminum
• Jade - Contains aluminum
• Malachite - Extremely high copper content
• Moonstone - Contains aluminum and potentially other toxic materials
• Rose Quartz - Contains aluminum
• Ruby - Contains aluminum
• Saphire - Contains aluminum
• Serpentine - Contains asbestos
• Tiger’s Eye - Contains asbestos
• All Quartz - Some forms are water safe but be careful with storage as all kinds of quartz dust causes silicosis

So perhaps keep that in mind especially since some of these are quite pricey and we definitely don’t want to be damaging them.  I honestly recommend cleansing and charging your crystals by laying them out on your window ledge (inside) under a full (or new) moon.  Equally keep what I said here in mind when doing any experiments, putting them in tinctures, oils or perfumes, burying them etc etc.

Herbs (Plants, Flowers, Bark, Roots etc)

Herbs and plants have been used since the very beginning but not everything is safe!  While some herbs (plants, flowers, bark, roots etc) come with a load of health benefits some really don’t and not just to us humans but to our pets and other animals and even our plants!!  I beg of you to do your research before bringing anything home.  Even in plant form or kitchen herbs and spices!

• A-Z Poisonus house plants to Cats - https://pethelpful.com/cats/Houseplants-Poisonous-to-your-Cats 
• Unsafe herbs for Pets - https://www.natural-dog-health-remedies.com/unsafe-herbs.html 
• 199 Poisonous to humans and animal plants to look out for - https://www.proflowers.com/blog/poisonous-plants - especially useful if you pick your supplies from the wild.
• A List of Poisonous Plants and Herbs and Their Lore - https://exemplore.com/misc/Poisonous-Herbs-a-list-of-poisonous-plants
• Dangerous herbs - https://www.thoughtco.com/toxic-and-poisonous-herbs-2562022

That’s just to throw a few websites at you.  Also note that some that are poisonous to ingest are fine once cooked.  And that some you can’t even touch so definitely don’t want to burn, eat, sleep with under your pillow etc.  SOME herbs that are poisonous to ingest:  Aconite, Belladonna (aka Deadly Nightshade), Lilly of the Valley, Mandrake Root, Mistletoe, Monkshood, Morning Glory, Mugwort, Skullcap, St Johns Wort and Wormwood are just some of the more poisonous ingredients you can obtain. 

And some while carrying very good health benefits and that can be used safely in tea, tinctures, cooking, eating raw, medicine, massage, ingested etc etc also carry unwanted properties.  Such as Aloe Vera which is an all round good plant.  The gel inside is used in a great many healing tonics, creams, aftersun, etc..  It can be used raw on the skin too and is fantastic for burns.  It also has many antioxidant and antibacterial properties.  It can also be used in more obscure ways such as reducing dental plaque if you brush your teeth with it.  It can help with canker sores, reduce constipation and has even been rumored to help prevent wrinkles and improve low blood surages – thank you google.  But for all those good points it doesn’t tell you that it’s a blood thinner and may be fatal if swallowed in large doses or use incorrectly. 

Aloe gel (not the yellow latex inside or the external leaf) is deemed as safe when applied to the skin appropriately as a medicine or as a cosmetic.

Aloe gel is probably safe when taken orally in low dose. However taking aloe latex or outer leaf by mouth is considered as unsafe but you can consume.  
Remember, products made from whole aloe leaves will contain some aloe latex. 

Aloe latex can cause some side effects such as stomach pain and cramps. Long-term use of large amounts of aloe latex might cause diarrhea, kidney problems, blood in the urine, low potassium, muscle weakness, weight loss, and heart disturbances. Taking aloe latex 1 gram daily for several days can be fatal.

Pregnant women, Elderly and Children shouldn't ingest any part of Aloe to be safe and to seek specifcally designed Aloe products and not use raw Aloe plant.

Diabetes: Some research suggests that aloe might lower blood sugar. If you take aloe by mouth and you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels closely. 

Intestinal conditions such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or obstruction: Do not take aloe latex if you have any of these conditions. Aloe latex is a bowel irritant. 

Hemorrhoids: Do not take aloe latex if you have hemorrhoids. It could make the condition worse. 

Kidney problems: High doses of aloe latex have been linked to kidney failure and other serious conditions. 

Surgery: Aloe might affect blood sugar levels and could interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop taking aloe at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

- I wripped most of this information off of Stylecraze website which I do reccoment you go read the full information at https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/side-effects-of-aloe-vera-juice/#gref

Keep in mind that while some herbs, plants, flowers, fruits, bark, roots, nuts etc etc can be eaten they are very different when it comes to burning in incense or visa versa.  Making your own oils, tinctures, incense, home fragrance and cleaning products, medicine, pest control, teas etc etc should always be done with full research as to the positive benefits as well as the negative side effects to you, others in your home inc animals and plants depending on how you wish to use said ingredient.

So here's a very incomplete list of some of those as mentioned.. but please do your research on ALL.  There's many amazing books out there or the internet.  He are some examples of herbs that are considered all round "good" but that have some bad properties.

• Allspice -  Insufficient evidence suggests that Allspice may cause Intestinal gas, Indigestion, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Fever, Flu, Colds, Heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Aloe vera - Blood thinning, kidney problems.
• Cinnamon - Can cause skin burns if applied topically. Eating / drinking too much cinnamon may cause liver damage.  May Increase the Risk of Cancer. May Cause Mouth Sores. May Cause Low Blood Sugar. May Cause Breathing Problems. May Interact With Certain Medications.
• Chamomile - Can thin the blood, do not take with blood thinners, aspirin, antidepressants, and some Alzheimer’s medications. It can also cause allergic reactions in people with ragweed or daisy allergies.
• Echinacea - Do not take with immunosuppressants, after organ transplant, or if you have an autoimmune disease.
• Feverfew - Blood thinning.
• Garlic - Blood thinning.
• Ginger - Blood thinner and should not be taken by anyone on blood thinning medications or with bleeding disorders, Too much can stimulate stomach upset leading to indigestion and gassiness, Pregnant women shouldn't use huge amounts of ginger for a long period of time because it can irritate the abdominal area.
• Ginseng - Blood thinning.
• Gingko - Blood thinning.
• Goldenseal - Do not take with immunosuppressants, after organ transplant, or if you have an autoimmune disease.
• Licorice - Can cause high blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythm, and heart failure.
• Nutmeg - High dosage can cause hallucinations and can be toxic, Pregnant women should not use nutmeg medicinally.  Not to be taken with antidepressants.
• Dong Quai - Blood thinning.
• Tumeric - Blood thinning, upset your stomach, may stimulate contractions.
• Willow Bark - Blood thinning.
• St. Johns Wort - Do not take with contraception, immunosuppressants, or antibiotics. Also, avoid if taking any medication that causes sun sensitivity or if you’re naturally prone to sunburns!
• Mugwort - Do not take if pregnant or breastfeeding, may cause miscarriage. May cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to ragweed and daisies.

Also for my own interest I have just put together a little blog on Pumpkin Spice mix and the Magickal properties, Health Benefits and Possible Side Effects of the ingredients involved in that which you can view here:

Essential Oils

First warning comes with common sense that Essential Oils are high concentrated extracts of herbs, flowers and other plants, roots, bark, fruits and nuts etc.  It should never be ingested in any way in raw essential oil form as it should always be diluted / watered down with a carrier oil (vegetable glycerin, almond oil, sunflower oil, coconut oil etc), water (such as with use in oil burners) or something else.  Once diluted even then do not take orally or inject.  – True massage oils are made of diluted essential oils and a carrier oil.  Please be mindful what you’re absorbing through your skin or inhaling when you breath.  As as mentioned in the herb section not all of these are safe for people, animals or even plants.

Under no circumstances should you ever use anything on animals orally or externally as it can be highly fatal or cause other very bad side effects etc see the herbs section.

Another point is that all oils are fire hazards and are flammable; while I’m not saying they’re going to spontaneously combust please be very mindful when creating and using anointing oils, using oils in oil burners and/or any other way in which any oil may come in contact with any flame.

Like all things do your research before purchasing and make sure you get several opinions not just one persons half-witted assumptions.

Activity..

Research other potentially dangerous, hazardous and otherwise bad side effects of your more commonly use stones, herbs and essential oils.

Book Activity..

(Optional) Copy down any information from above you think you will find useful.. and/or any further information you find out.

Interact with me Activity..

(Optional) on the Fb Page https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/ feel free to add any information you deem worthy..  

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Thank you all for the support.  For anyone wishing to share, ask for help, talk about BoS / their book and relevant content (or for more information, ideas and unmissable blog posts go to the Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/

Imogen x

Next Blog: Sunday September 30th's BoS Prompt:  Practice for the budget/broke practitioner!

WW: Pumpkin Spice Mix: Magickal Properties, Health Benefits and Possible Side Effects.

Disclaimer:  I wish to dedicate and reference that the majority of this blog post was directly copied, pasted and altered from http://www.witchipedia.com of whom I’m issuing full credit for this particular blog post.  That said all the facts: including the additional sourced information from other sites, google, my personal library and information from my personal Book of Shadows and my experience all coincide and backup the information from witchipedia as well as enhance and compliment their information with further information which I have shared blelow.  - I always credit my sources when possible.  The purpose of this blog entry is not for profit, it is not to steal their information but it is to bring knowledge and information to you.  I hope this helps!!

-        Imogen xo

Magickal, Health Benefits and Negative Side Effects of Pumpkin Spice Mix.

Assuming you didn’t think pumpkin spice was made from actual pumpkin then you may or may not know that it is is a blended mix made up of Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Allspice and Ground Clove.  So I thought I would look at SOME of the health benefits, magickal properties and real possible side effects:

Cinnamon

Looking for more information?  Why not check out: http://www.witchipedia.com/herb:cinnamon

Magickal properties:

• Cinnamon is associated with the element of fire and the sun. 
  
  
• Cinnamon is commonly used in incense.
  
  
• Cinnamon can be burned to cleanse, smudge and/or sanctify an area, room or object.
  
  
• Burning cinnamon can increase the spiritual "mood", aid in healing spells or in healing in general.
  
  
• Cinnamon oil (inc diluted essential oil) may be used to anoint objects during blessing and protection rituals.
  
  
• Cinnamon can be used in love spells and to make charms to draw love, happiness, and money.
  
  
• Cinnamon can be used in any fire spells or to add heat.
  
  
• Cinnamon can be used in money spells.

Health properties:

• Cinnamon is one of the go to spices for upset stomachs and stomach problems, including car sickness and morning sickness.  Also for digestive problems, including gas, vomiting and diarrhea.
  
  
• Cinnamon can be used in teas and other beverages when a warming affect is desired such as in the Autumn/Winter months.
  
  
• Cinnamon is also useful in combination beverages as it stimulates the action of other herbs and spices.
  
  
• A cup of cinnamon tea after dinner is said to stimulate digestion and help regulate blood sugar.
  
  
• Cinnamon oil (not essential oil) can be applied to a toothache to deaden the pain (much like clove oil; but it is not as effective as clove oil).

Negative side effects / warnings:

• Women who are pregnant should not ingest large amounts of cinnamon as it can endanger the pregnancy.
  
  
• Over-chewing of cinnamon gum can deaden the nerves of the mouth and cause inflammation.
  
  
• Cinnamon should not be applied topically (to the skin) as it is considered a dermal toxin and it is extremely irritating to mucus membranes in particular.
  
  
• Eating / drinking too much cinnamon may cause liver damage.  May Increase the Risk of Cancer. May Cause Mouth Sores. May Cause Low Blood Sugar. May Cause Breathing Problems. May Interact With Certain Medications.

Ginger

Looking for more information?  Why not check out: http://www.witchipedia.com/herb:ginger

Magickal properties:

• Ginger is associated with the element of fire and the sun.
  
  
• Ginger is energetic and fiery and adds power to any magical activity.
  
  
• Ginger is used in spells to "speed things up" or to cause plans to come to fruition quickly.
  
  
• Ginger can also be used in spells to add passion to an existing relationship.

Health properties:

• Ginger is a great boost for the immune system and is great for any cold conditions associated with shivering. Such as low grade fever or walking home from the bus stop in the rain. Or those Autumn/Fall months.
  
  
• The most common use for ginger in healing is the treatment of upset stomach. Ginger tea, ginger ale, candy, tablets, and the curiously strong ginger Altoids are often kept on hand for sour stomachs, morning sickness and car sickness. It is also used to help combat nausea associated with chemotherapy. Studies have shown similar results between ginger and over the counter medicines for treating nausea. (These contain sugar and phosphoric acid and coloring, which is pretty much Caffeine Free Coca Cola. You decide.) People who tend to have sensitive stomachs and indigestion may find relief by developing the habit of drinking a cup of ginger tea after each meal.
  
  
• Ginger is also a noted anti-inflammatory agent. You can eat ginger candy or apply fresh slices of ginger directly to the affected area.
  
  
• Ginger has also been rumoured to help fight cholesterol and to prevent blood clots. Some research also suggests that ginger has cancer fighting properties.

Negative side effects / warnings:

• Too much Ginger can stimulate your stomach too much and lead to indigestion and gassiness, so moderation is advised.
  
  
• Blood thinner and should not be taken by anyone on blood thinning medications or with bleeding disorders.
  
  
• Pregnant women shouldn't use huge amounts of ginger for a long period of time because it can irritate the abdominal area. To reduce danger, use only fresh ginger rather than dried ginger.

Nutmeg

Looking for more information?  Why not check out: http://www.witchipedia.com/herb:cinnamon

Magickal properties:

• A whole nutmeg seed can be carried to bring luck during all games of chance from cards to Bingo to roulette. This effect is greatly enhanced by creating an amulet of the seed by drilling a hole in the nutmeg and filling it with Mercury and then stopping up the hole with wax or glue or by carrying the seed wrapped in green cloth (or both).
  
  
• Nutmeg can also be carried as a charm to encourage a favorable decision in court cases and success in other legal matters. Wrap it in a purple cloth or string it on a purple string for this purpose.
  
  
• A Nutmeg in the pocket will also help to ensure good luck while traveling.
  
  
• An old Creole spell suggests that sprinkling nutmeg in a woman's shoe at midnight will encourage her to fall madly in love with you. Other ways of using nutmeg to encourage another's love is to share a beverage flavored with nutmeg with them, or to wear a fragrance featuring nutmeg oil.
  
  
• Nutmeg can be added to beverages drunk before meditation and divination to enhance clairvoyance and clear sight and to encourage visions. A massage oil containing nutmeg essential oil or nutmeg butter may also be rubbed into the temples for the same purpose.
  
  
• Nutmeg essential oil is an ingredient in Money Drawing Oil which can be used to anoint candles and other items during spell work aimed at bringing money to the household. Powdered nutmeg can also be added to money drawing powders which can be sprinkled over coals, candles and other items during money drawing spells.
  
  

Health properties:

• For the stomach: Nutmeg encourages the appetite and aids digestion. It reduces gas and excess acid and eases cramping associated with diarrhea, relieving many sources of stomach discomfort.
  
  
• Nutmeg is calming and can help ease you into a gentle sleep. Try it sprinkled into a cup of warm milk sweetened with honey.
  
  
• Nutmeg butter may be added to salves for the relief of minor skin irritations and for rheumatic rubs.

Negative side effects / warnings:

• Use caution with nutmeg as it can cause hallucinations if used in large amounts and can be toxic. Doses larger than 1 tsp are not recommended. Pregnant women should not use nutmeg medicinally.
• Fatal.
• Not to be taken with antidepressants.

Allspice

Looking for more information?  Why not check out: http://www.witchipedia.com/herb:allspice

Magickal properties:

• Allspice is associated with the element of fire and the planet Mars. It is masculine in nature, very manly. Use to honor very virile and powerful male archetypes.
  
  
• Allspice is very uplifting and increases energy and determination making it useful in many different types of spells, especially healing spells.
  
  
• The dried berries, oil, or allspice incense can be burned to aid in spells for attracting money and/or luck. The berries can also be added to sachets for attracting the same.
  
  
• Allspice is useful in all healing mixtures.

Health properties:

• Allspice can be used in a paste to soothe toothache (much like cloves) and a mouthwash to freshen breath. It stimulates the gastro-intestinal tract, so it can be used in teas to encourage the appetite or aid in digestion. Allspice can also be added to tonics and purgatives. Two or three drops of the essential oil with some sugar has been used to cure flatulence.
  
  
• Allspice is also listed as a rubefacient, which means that it increases circulation to the skin, so it can be used in treating acne and cold limbs. Allspice contains tannins, which provide a mild anesthetic making it useful for the treatment of arthritis and sore muscles either in a soak or a poultice.

Negative side effects / warnings:

• Insufficient evidence suggests that Allspice may cause Intestinal gas, Indigestion, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Fever, Flu, Colds, Heavy menstrual bleeding.

Cloves

Looking for more information?  Why not check out: http://www.witchipedia.com/herb:cloves

Magickal properties:

• Cloves are masculine in nature and aligned with the planet Jupiter and the element of fire.
  
  
• Used in magick to attract good luck and prosperity, to keep good friends close, and to help stop malicious gossip. Burn to prevent people from spreading rumors about you or push the cloves into a red candle and burn that.
  
  
• To keep friendships strong, make each friend a cloth bag with seven cloves inside. Wear always.
  
  
• Cloves can be added to money drawing and good luck mojo bags for gamblers and clove oil can be added to oils for similar purpose.
  
  
• Cloves have been used as an aphrodisiac. Simply infuse cloves into wine or apple cider to enjoy its effects.
  
  

Health properties:

• Clove oil (not essential oil) has long been an essential part of the herbal first aid kit. It is both antibacterial and anesthetic. Rub the oil directly on your gums to numb a toothache.
• Clove oil helps stimulate circulation to the skin. It can be added to warming massage oils and dabbed on acne to encourage healing.
• Use clove buds in a tea to improve digestion, prevent and relieve flatulence and relieve nausea and diarrhea. It is also lovely steeped in milk, wine or juice with a cinnamon stick for these purposes.
• Test a drop of clove oil on the inside of your elbow to ensure you are not sensitive to it.

Negative side effects / warnings:

• Common side effects of topically applied clove may include: erection problems, trouble having an orgasm (delayed ejaculation), itching, rash, mild skin irritation, sore gums, mouth irritation, bleeding or swollen gums, or tooth changes after using clove inside the mouth.
  
  
• Inhaling smoke from clove cigarettes or injecting clove oil into the veins unsafe and can cause side effects such as breathing problems and lung disease.
  
  
• Dried clove can also cause mouth sensitivity and irritation, as well as damage to dental tissues.
• In children, clove oil is likely to be unsafe for use. It can cause severe side effects such as seizures, liver damage, and fluid imbalances.
• Shouldn't be used by women who are pregnant and/or breast-feeding despite it's said to be safe there is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking clove in medicinal doses if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
  
  
• Bleeding disorders: Clove oil contains a chemical called eugenol that seems to slow blood clotting. There is a concern that taking clove oil might cause bleeding in people with bleeding disorders.
  
  
• Surgery: Clove oil contains a chemical called eugenol that seems to slow blood clotting. There is a concern that it might cause bleeding during or after surgery. Stop using clove at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

BoS Prompt 23: Where and What Supplies to buy!

Link to previous prompts: http://ppwwmm.blogspot.co.uk/2017/11/cauldroneers-bos-prompts.html

FYI: There is now a dedicated facebook page for you to follow so as to support these blog posts @ https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/

Prompt 23. Sunday 23rd September 2018 - The 23rd prompt will be..  Where and What Supplies to buy!

Supplies I’m back!  I mean surprise!!  But this particular blog entry is going to be about Supplies..  What I use and where I get it from..!!  And perhaps even why!!

Full disclaimer 1.  You absolutely do not need to buy anything to practice Magick, Witchcraft, any form of Paganism such as Wicca, Druidry, Shamanism etc.  These are all Earth Based Religions / Practices / Faiths etc meaning that our ancestors wouldn’t have gone out and purchased their tools and supplies; in fact most of them couldn’t afford to!  Supplies were picked and grown from our lands while tools would have been shaped, carved and created from trees, bone, antler, clay etc.   Although granted some would have been traded or purchased.  - I am in no way encouraging you to spend money.  2. I’m from England UK and so I will try and reference international sources but keep that in mind.

I have been asked by a few people on Facebook, Instagram and a few other Social Media haunts as to where I get my supplies from..  What I use, how I got my Altar and how I have accumulated so much stuff…  Do I use it all?  Absolutely not!  But I’m a creature of hoarding, collecting and materialistic things – especially if I can find them very inexpensively, make them myself or support independent businesses.  - Though I am no stranger to chain stores etc either.

Since magick is all around us everywhere and in everything we are not restricted to how we practice nor what we use..  Although that said let's take a look at some of the more common tools and supplies aka the "basics"?!!

First I'll look at more stereotypical witchy items and then Wiccan and then a few other general items you may wish to practice with..  

So when we think of witches aside from the typical crooked nose, warts and green skin we also picture the conical hat, besom (or broom as it's more commonly known), a cat or other witches familiar, spell book, cauldron and perhaps a few other noticeables such as a black cloak or cape, potion bottles, spell ingredients such as frogs legs and eye of newt etc.  So let's break down some of these more stereotypical witches items; though while I can't do much for your completion I'm sure there's some interesting makeup or special fx gurus on youtube who will aid you in the tips and tricks of cosmology..  So let's look at the more material things shall we.. 

Besom/Broom:  The besom as I said a besom is more commonly known as a broom or a witch's broom.  These items are much more symbolic or for metaphysical use than literally functional.  They are very much traditionally made brooms made for sweeping though these brooms are more for sweeping away negative energies and to cleanse a space spiritually /magickally / metaphysically than it is for literally sweeping dirt.  (SPOILERS!) Besoms/brooms are also noted as the witch’s mode of transport however I don't personally know any that actually fly!!   Besoms can also be purchased around Halloween, at specialist stores including Etsy.com and some antique shops or made yourself – I made mine from upcycled Poundland Halloween costume props and a large fallen branch I obtained in the woods.  Besoms are also incorporated into some wedding or handfasting ceremonies and/or ritualistic dance and traditions.

Cat/Familiar:   A cat or other witches familiar I have done a blog covering this so will link it HERE.  Essentially a pet that chooses you and lends its energies to you and your workings among other things.

Cauldron:  While having a cauldron is nice it's also not necessary at all.  Cauldrons were the cooking pots of the day.  If you think of a big pot of stew bubbling over an open fire then that was how food would have been cooked back in the day.  Today our traditions would be the equivalent to a pan on a stove.  Cauldrons / cooking pots and pans would be used to brew tea, potions, ointments, medicines etc..  As well as cooking food or preparing ingredients.  While it's not impossible to find cauldrons you're definitely going to pay a pretty penny especially for a heavy cast iron one.  I myself have quite a few small ceramic, brass and cast iron cauldrons which I believe I purchased them all from ebay.  Again second hand shops / charity shops / thrift stores around Halloween, Antiques places, car boots (or yard sales for our international friends) are just a few places to look.  Equally as mentioned a cauldron is not essential any heatproof cooking pan will suffice and even better if it has a lid.  I even know some people who use oil burners or fondue sets and again I have both.

Witches Hat:  The conical hat is a pointed hat worn in many styles, fabrics and traditions  throughout the ages however one belief of the witch is that it was believed that energies would manifest almost like a lighting conductor and be attracted and conducted as they hit the point of the hat and then be magnified as they’re protruded down the cone shape to the brim which then expels down into the witch surrounding her in an invisible cylinder of energies.  Conical hats are not terribly difficult to make even out of paper although typically they're made of stiff fabric.  They're also not terribly expensive to buy especially around Halloween where a cheap one could be purchased for use or even altered to adorn other elements and be customised to his or her tastes (as said Witches can be male or female).  I actually stole mine from my kid Sisters Halloween costume some 4 years or so ago since she was throwing it out.  I believe originally it was purchased from Wilkos for a few pounds or even Poundland. 

Cloak/Cape/Robes:   A cloak or cape can easily be made or purchased at places such as eBay which is where I got mine.  This is much more ceremonial or symbolic.  Part of the attire almost like a uniform however not essential nor important.  The colour(s) may also be symbolic or carry values.  I did a blog on some colour correspondences HERE.  Alternatively some practices are done Skyclad (naked).

Bottles/Jars/Vials/Containers:   Potion bottles themselves are easy to come by depending on type, size, colour etc Pound shops, wilkos, ikea carry them but see second hand / charity shops / thrift stores.  Also check out crafting sections of chain stores, craft shops or repurpose other bottles or food containers, again ebay, etsy, aliexpress etc and then fill the empty bottles / veils etc with your desired supplies, potions, poisons, tinctures, specimens, oils etc..

Spellbooks:   Spellbooks can be purchased from specialist shops, book shops, ebay, amazon etc or even passed down.  The majority of my books, including my spell books, came from ebay.co.uk as I'm no stranger to second hand goods especially when you apply the three C's (cleanse, consecrate and charge). Book of Shadows or Grimoires are typically made yourself or handed down.

Spell Ingredients:   Spell ingredients such as herbs, spices, resins, bark etc can be purchased from specialist shops, food/grocery shops/stores, spice shops, herbalist shops etc etc they can also be home grown, traded, harvested from the wild etc  -  I also want to point out that back in days of old when spells used 'wing of bat' and 'tongue if dog', 'eye of newt' etc these were nicknames given to herbs a lot of these herbs we still use today check out this website for some of those more obscure old world names HERE.  

In Wicca on a Wiccan altar you have a god and goddess side.  Typically the altar will be also split into element representative quarters.  There are a few set ways of laying out an altar and the items which should be upon it for use in various workings, rituals, spells, etc..  However the silver rule of do what feels right to you strongly applies here.

Altar:   An altar can be made in any space.  Traditionally this would be wooden like a wood table - this is an earth based connection.  However some of use, like myself, get a little more creative with our secret shoebox altars or our grand room dedicated spaces, our inconspicuous shelves etc..  I myself have a glass display cabinet for the simple reason my cats (or my cat and my familiar) like to get into everything!!  Altars can be created and altered from many mundane items; purchased or sourced for free preloved / second hand or new from places like Ikea, Argos and other furniture sellers.  Feel free to get inspiration here: http://fuckyeahaltars.tumblr.com/

Altar Cloth:  Said altar would usually be covered with an altar cloth (but not always) - this is both for protection and also the colour of the cloth or any pattern can be symbolic to the season, dedication, user, path etc.  I have a piece of black velvet which works nicely as simple and Gothy looking.  Other ideas are off cuts of fabric, scarves, tapestries, shawls, blankets, towels, prayer mats, table mats, ceramic tile, cushion covers, chopping board etc..

Athame:   An athame (athame is pronounced as 'a thor may') it is a ritualistic or ceremonial knife. This knife is not for cutting physical objects.  Traditionally black handled double edged blade that doesn't have to be metal if can be carved wood, bone, antler or stone even plastic if you so wish. It is used to direct energy, cast/recalling circles and cut metaphysical or energy ties.  This is dominantly a male/masculine object.  Personally my athame isn't black handled its pink handled, double edged letter opener I got on ebay.

Bell:   Bells are used for many a purpose from clearing negative or bad energies, dismissing of spirits or elementals, cleansing, as a signifier to starting/ending working/spell/prayer/ritual etc or as a representation of the element air.  A bell is a feminine object. I personally don't have a bell.  I do however have some thumb symbols, a singing bowl and a few other high frequency sounding items.  None of which are on my altar top.

Besom/Broom: I've already covered ^.

Boline:  Another kind of knife is a boline this is a curved blade almost like a small scythe.  They're typically very sharp and are used for cutting herbs or engraving candles.  I got a carpet cutting tool on ebay with a curved blade and wooden handle.

Candles:  I have a fair few blogs about candles including types of candle and candle colours.  Typically any white candle can be used in place of a colour.  Candles can be a shape or type to represent the working/ritual/spell etc or be engraved.  They can be anointed with oils or herbs.  I typically get my chime/spell/wish (birthday)/Hanukkah candles from ebay, tea light candles from Wilkos and any time I see a great deal on candles I get them plus I also make them myself such as my skull candles, votive and other specialist candles.  In Wicca candles are used to represent the god (usually gold, red or black) and the goddess (usually silver, green or white).  They can also be used to represent the elements or mark the quarters, spirit, as a working candle, fire etc.  Fire is a male item.

Chalice/Cup:   A Chalice or Cup has multi functional properties firstly it is a feminine object as its represented as the womb.  It is a ceremonial object in which wine or water (or other liquids) can be poured and shared with the divine, spirit, deceased etc as an offering.  It can be as simple as a cup or glass or as complicated as a forged goblet or chalice.

Cauldron:  I've already covered ^.

Dishes:   Dishes as I mentioned before about various dishes and such forth some are for specific tasks such as a libation dish which is typically a small bowl, dish or cup/chalice that is used to place offerings in (see my blog post on offerings HERE). 

Divine / God and Goddess representation:   You may wish to get some figures, sculptures, pictures or some other representation. You may also want to do this with ancestors, spirits, demons, angels, symbolism of people etc. I myself have a wooden male and female sculpture I use to represent male and female. Again purchased from ebay. I also have some crow figures as one of my goddesses is The Morrigan.  - The Divine lives in all things!

Feathers:   Feathers are a representation of air and also of angels.  Feathers can be obtained from parks/woods or craft stores.  Be aware that some countries such as America it is illegal to own animal parts including bird feathers.

Mortar and Pestle:  A Mortar and Pestle set is used for grinding ingredients these can be obtained in the as mentioned shops.

Pentacle or Pentagram Altar Tile:   A Pentacle or Pentagram this is another symbol which I've covered in many blogs so click HERE for more information.  However in Wicca typically a Pentacle/Pentagram would be used as the centre of the altar.  I myself have a white wall tile with a silver and black Pentacle drinks coaster on top.  The tile I had laying around but the coaster was from ebay..
Salt/Salt Water:   Salt / Salt Water is pretty self explanatory.  There's various salts from sea salt to Himalayan pink rock salt and epsom salt.  Salt is pretty much used as purification among other things.  It can be used as a representation of water.

Spellbooks:   I've already covered ^.  

Sword/Dagger:   Some people also like to have swords or daggers as part of their arsenal of tools though this lends itself more towards weapons.  - I personally haven't looked into this however.

Stones/Crystals:   Stones or crystals can be used for many of their metaphysical or magickal properties.

Wand:   A wand can be used instead of an athame.  Typically this will be a wooden stick.  Tree associations and properties are usually used here.  Alternatively crystal wands (and their properties), clay or even your index finger or dominant hand will suffice.  I made my wand for more information on this go HERE.

Working book:   Some people like to have a separate notebook for their planning which they copy finalised and successful recipes etc into their Book of Shadows / Grimoires later.

Working knife:  Working knife unlike the athame this is used to cut, carve, chop, draw, engrave etc it's a multi tool knife.  Traditionally this knife would be white handled.  I myself have a penknife as my working knife which I believe I got from an army stall on a market.

I hope that gives you some ideas of things you'd like to obtain.  Most ritualistic tools while dedicated to one's craft would still be made from mundane items; as said a lot of things traditionally would have been made from found objects gathered from nature including a lot of clay sculpted, wood carved or woven creations etc.   Wands would have been carved from sticks and knives from sticks, branches, bone, antler etc.  Even mortar and pestle would have been a rock and a bigger rock or stone surface.  Incense would have been made from scratch ingredients (plants, resins, bark etc).   A lot of herbs, resins, bark etc would have been picked fresh and dried then stored for use.  Today we're lucky in that we can pop to most grocery stores to find basic herbs; pre-dried and bottled ready for our use.  Specialist shops inc ebay and etsy sellers may carry more obscure items. - I also recommend keeping your magickal and cooking supplies separate just encase!!

Other things you might like to buy are more personal to the user such as jewellery pieces especially those which are amulets, talismans, trinkets etc (I did a blog on these and what's the difference between them HERE).  Of course you can make your own or purchase them.  Mine are a mixture of what I made myself and inexpensive AliExpress jewellery.  This then falls into our curio items (curiosities); so unusual and obscure items like skulls, taxidermy, legs, wings etc..  Which is usually more for decor purposes than functional in modern day practices.  You may also want to buy, alter or make trinket boxes, dishes, drawstring bags, silk cloths etc..  Or other items such as dreamcatchers, evil eyes, wards, signs, wall hangings, windchimes, suncatchers etc

And of course not forgetting all the different kinds of divination tools..  I've written about Divination and some Divination Tools such as Tarot Cards, Dowsing Pendulums and Scrying Mirrors HERE.  I'd like to point out how you can draw or print your own tarot cards / oracle cards / fortune cards / sigil cards / angel cards / iChing cards / rune cards etc etc..  Likewise you can sculpt with clay or engrave wood, stone, bone, antler etc to make your own rune set be it Elder Futhark Runes, Witches Runes or some other Runic set. You can very easily make a Dowsing Pendulum, Crystal Grid, etc, you can make your own Spirit Dice (or do as I did and repurpose a boggle set!) etc.  Again you can scry into a bowl of water, paint the back of picture glass to make your own black mirror or use a number of other items.  You can make your own ouija board.  Tasseography / tea leaf reading can be done in almost any cup.  You're not limited to spending a fortune on premade divination tools and items.. 

You may also want to purchase or make notebooks, diaries or journals for recording experiences such as spells, rituals, dreams, communications etc. 

Next weeks blog is going to be about sourcing supplies / tools / materials for free / very cheap as a "Practice for the budget/broke practitioner!" plus it will include some completely free practices which really work and cost nothing to do!!

Activity..

• Look at ways to make your own supplies.
• Buy a herb plant.

Book Activity..

• (Optional) Copy down any information from above you think you will find useful.. and/or any further information you find out.

Interact with me Activity..

• (Optional) on the Fb Page https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/ feel free to add any information you deem worthy..  

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Thank you all for the support.  For anyone wishing to share, ask for help, talk about BoS / their book and relevant content (or for more information, ideas and unmissable blog posts go to the Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/

Imogen x

Next Blog: Sunday September 30th's BoS Prompt:  Real Dangers of Stones, Herbs and Essential Oils!