Showing posts with label properties. Show all posts
Showing posts with label properties. Show all posts

Sunday, 30 September 2018

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.




Sunday, 14 January 2018

BoS Prompts 8: Zodiac / Star Signs / Birth Sign...


Prompt 8. Sunday 14th January 2018 - The 8th prompt will be...  Zodiac.

Starting to feel like I'm wasting my time and no one is interested in these blog posts..



There's now a dedicated facebook page to support these blog posts @ https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/

Thank you all for the support.  I've now made a dedicated facebook page https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/ so if you go there turn on all notifications you won't miss these blog posts!! 

This week is going to be short, it's another one which is VERY open to you and your opinion.  How much time and effort you wish to put into this weeks prompt.  But I don't want to give too much away and do this weeks activities for you.  So...


What is/are Zodiac's?
When most people hear the word ‘Zodiac’ they instantly think of the 12 signs of which people are born under, but Zodiac is actually a little more than that!!  The Zodiac itself is actually an area of space (sky) that is approximately 8° North or South of the equator – this is measured in celestial latitude (Celestial longitude and latitude are defined with respect to the ecliptic and ecliptic poles measured from the equator).  And there’s a whole bunch more too it – perhaps research if you’re interested in astrology however this blog IS going to focus more on the 12 signs which is we more commonly what is known by ‘Zodiac’. So as said there’s twelve of them, each of them occupy apx 30° of celestial longitude space.  The twelve signs are Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces.  They are the twelve signs noted from celestial coordinate system (as mentioned ecliptic coordinate system) throughout the course of a year solar (Sun) cycle can be seen.

That said we are going to look more at the different aspects of each sign.

It is said that each sign has different traits, correspondences and values.  If you followed the prompt and did the ‘about me’ section it’s quite likely that you already did some research on your own zodiac sign (or star sign as it is also referred as).  It’s quite likely if you’re on this path anyway that you would know something about your birth sign.  Or failing that then you may know something from some dodgy love calculator to see if you and your boyfriend are compatible soulmates forever and of course to reading your horoscope and indeed your mums, dads, brothers, best friends, girlfriend, cat, Sir Stephen Hawking and anyone else you possible know the birthdate of.  But what does it all mean?  How true is it all?  - Who knows!!  But the same could be said for almost anything!!

For me I’m a Sagittarius (20th December) which means my element is fire, my colour is Blue or Purple, my day of the week is Thursday and I was born under the planet Jupiter.  Overall I’m greatly compatible with Gemini and Aries as a soulmate or best friend.  My lucky numbers are 3, 4, 9, 12 and 21 and my fellow Sagittarius brethren were born between November 22nd – December 21st.  I’m optimistic, outgoing, adventurous, extrovert, generous, idealistic and well the list goes on.

But am I really?

I mean I’m more of an Earth girl than Fire and I prefer the colour pink, I hated Thursdays in school as they were often PE day but now every other Thursday is payday and rent day too.  No one I’m particularly close with are Gemini and/or Aries (well my mum and dad are both Aries 23rd March, yes they're also the same age!) and in fact a few people I was bullied by in school happen to be born under those signs and I definitely don't consider myself to be 'compatible' with them since I was bullied mostly for being different.  I’ll agree to the numbers but my favourite number is 23.  I’m not so much optimistic, not really outgoing, my anxieties and mental health along with physical disabilities definitely don’t make me adventurous or an extrovert and well I could continue but I believe you get my point.   

In addition to this the aspects of each sign can be portrayed into the months characteristic and attributes.  And well this really is for you to look into and adapt to what works for you, what you believe, how you feel..

Personally I love reading horoscopes but 99% of the time I can read any of them and somehow associate them with things going on with my life that day – much like tarot, oracle, fortune and other cards.  – I personally like them because they cause me to think and to look at situations and things which otherwise I may have shrugged off and not paid any attention to.  Most people call it coincidence, common or that it’s fake.  Each to their own.


Activity..

Research all the zodiac star signs.  Prompts:

  • What do they look like in astral form?
  • What do they look like in picture form?
  • What do they look like in symbol form?
  • Names, and their meanings..
  • Correspondances, Properties and Attributes.
  • Zodiac Dates
  • History
  • and anything else you like..
Etc..

Book Activity..


In your BoS why not create a page / pages for each sign..  You could draw/create images (or use stamps, royalty free images, images you purchase etc) of each sign, astral form, symbol form.  Journal about the properties such dates (ie Sagittarius Nov 22nd - Dec 21st), colour correspondences, planet, character traits and compatibility etc.  This can be a big wrote out page or two for all twelve or you can just list on one page all the key points and basic information.  Up To you.  For me I found some images online I have absolutely fallen in love with and want to include for myself - but I am currently searching the artist for permission / to make payment for use of their work in my personal BoS that no one will see (very gothic, weird, dark, twisted images - love them).  I plan to put 2 per page but I haven't fully decided upon this yet.


Zodiac might not be your thing at all.  You might wish to totally skip this section if you feel it's a big pile of mumbo jumbo and you're not interested.  If that's the case then that's fine your path, your book, your choice!


-----------------------------------------

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 new Fb group https://www.facebook.com/groups/BoSPrompts/  Also as previously mentioned you can go on the website version of this blog over on the left there’s a ‘subscribe by email’ so you don’t miss a single post from me.  If you’re on the mobile version scroll right down to the bottom and click ‘view as website’ and that should take you to the website version where you can expand, navigate to the left and subscribe by email :)  I will continue to share this on my Patreon *for free* and also on my Twitter and in various facebook groups..  & Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/BookOfShadowsPrompts/

Imogen x

Next weeks prompts No.9 - Herbology, Oils and Stones

Monday, 24 July 2017

* WW: Zener Cards - About and Use.



"What are Zener cards and How do we use them?"

Background: In my 15 years or so of practice and study I've never heard of Zener cards until I received some in a magazine subscription.  I asked around and no one seem to have a clue either so I did the research..  I read the magazines, looked online and well I thought I'd post my findings for other people.  So first off.. If anyone in the UK and has been collecting the Enhancing Your Mind Body Spirit magazines by DeAgostini they may have come across Zener cards OR if you've been watching my unboxings of the monthly magazine subscription I post on my YouTube @ https://www.youtube.com/c/imogenakamissimoinsane you'll have seen I now have the full deck.  





So.. What are they?

- A basic deck consists of 25 cards with identical backs (much like playing cards, tarot, oracle etc).  The 25 card deck includes 5x 5 different shapes (usually square, triangle, cross, wave and circle) and these cards are also 5x 5 colours (one shape per colour).

What are they for?

- Zener cards are used to test and improve your psychic intuition, abilities and enhance your ESP (Extrasensory Perception also known as Extrasensory Perception and Telepathy).

How are they used?

- Do whatever it is you do to connect with cards or other divination tools such as tarot and oracle cards.  This may range and include (but not exclusive to) smudging, sleeping with the cards under your pillow for 7 nights, studying the cards, asking for guidance from Deities, Spirits, Angels or other beings and/or energies etc..  Or whatever it is you do to connect.

- Before the session you may wish to shuffle the cards face down much like you would do with any other unmarked cards.

- Move on to meditating, cleansing, special dress robe, ritual, lighting candles, asking for guide help and/or casting circles, or any other techniques used or tools to get you in that psychic zone ready for divination.  (Always use protection when evoking spirits and other beings). 

- Once ready turn the deck over.  Really focus on each card one at a time. Some people like to trace the outline of the shape with their index finger of their dominant hand while repeating (silently or out loud) the shape, or the colour and shape of that card over and over to really familiarise yourself with each unmarked card.  

- Once you have done this with each card turn them back away from you and again shuffle the deck while thinking about the cards as you shuffle.  Alongside this you may wish to repeat the colours and shapes, any chants, prayer or anything you deem helpful to aid your connection. 

- Once you feel ready you may stop shuffling the cards.  And draw one card (still with the back of the card facing you).  Beginners can focus on just the card shape to start with "guessing" that shape that's on the card - ok ok psychologically linking with the card to predict the shape. Repeat this process of drawing and predicting card after card.  (Optional write down your predictions and why you think that and then underneath the outcome and any thoughts you may have!) Building up that psychic intuition over time you can then move on to colour, mixing it up with colour or shape or indeed more advanced predicting both colour and shape.

Why would you use them?

- Now I could be wrong but seemingly the only real function, and don't get me wrong because it is a huge and awesome function, is to enhance your ESP abilities as mentioned earlier.

Food for thought:

Note. This can also be done with spirit working and connecting with them for them to aid you in your predictions.  - Always use protection!

Note. Making a Zener deck yourself would be very easy to do.  25 identical pieces of card, 5 different coloured pens and draw the 5 shapes; one with each pen.

Note. Like any divination this takes time and practice to build up the skill.  Not all divinations are for everyone.  While some people may excel in Zener they may lack at dowsing or tarot or runs or scrying etc.. Also equally it could be vice versa for any divination..

What is the meaning of Divination?

- The practice of seeking knowledge of the future or the unknown by supernatural means (Google Dictionary).


🖤 Imogen

Sunday, 23 July 2017

* WW: Sea Glass - Properties & Uses (IMO)


"What are the magickal properties and uses of Sea Glass?"


So thought I would post this 'In My Opinion' response out there..  These are some of the uses I've used sea glass for and/or seen others use it for - I'm sure there are loads of other uses (feel free to comment with your uses and/or sea glass finds I truly would love to see them!!)

So first off let me say that I just love to find it..  And go beach combing!!  I live in Blackpool England which is surrounded by beaches but I've only ever found sea glass at Fleetwood (on a good day maybe 10 pieces?) - I found a sea glass marble which I have displayed on my altar..  I have some tiny pieces which are on my altar in bottles but mostly I collect it to use in jewellery making..!



That said..  I've seen people use them for / I've used them for a whole number of things.. Here's some examples:

*To use for water / sea properties - as real sea glass, which has been smoothed fully, has had a long sea life and ultimately a long exposure to the salty sea water!..

*Sea witches of course find them useful.  Or water witches.

*Ones found with holes in have similar properties to Hag stones or wishing stones especially with a sea or water element properties.

*They can be used as water representation on an altar or in the home.

*Mermaid representation or offerings.

*They can represent fire and water because of the fired glass properties too..

*Other ideas are to engraved with runes or other symbols to create a set of runes, as talismans, charms etc..  Also used in jewellery or to make pendulums for dowsing and other divination.

*The Goddess / The moon has a direct connection to water and the Earth's water so of course sea glass can also be used as offerings or workings or representations.

*As mentioned because of their sea life in salt water they have cleansing, healing, purifying, protection etc properties for use in ritual, spells and other magickal uses.

*Very handy for closet witches as most mundanes would happily have pretty coloured glass pebbles on display, in a vase, in a bathroom, used in artwork, around candles and for other home decor..

*Some people use them for luck especially rarer colours..  Sea glass for most is quite difficult to find and quite expensive to buy online it seems.

Anyways this is just some ideas.  You could also Google "sea glass Magickal properties" and see what others suggest!!  As said I'd love your comments below!!

🖤 Imogen xo