Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs - Scott Cunningham 1985
Magical Ways
The Basics
Though there isn’t room here for a complete explanation of the methods and theories of magic, the following short essays discuss some of the most important points. For further information see Magical Herbalism.
Timing
The ancients created magical systems with varying degrees of complexity. One area in which they excelled was the art of timing ritual acts in accordance with astronomical phenomena. Some of these systems were rigidly controlled by the phases of the Moon; others took the seasons into account, and in others still, the stars and their positions were all-important.
Some of these systems are still in use today, with good results. But any system can kill off spontaneity and hinder the effects of magic—even its very performance. Timing is important, true, but there should be only one inviolable rule: magic is used when needed.
If I have a headache which disturbs my sleep or work, I cannot wait for the Moon to enter the proper sign, or until Ursa Major rises; I need relief immediately.
This is a trifling example but it holds true for all magic. It is no use waiting three weeks to perform a money spell if your bills must be paid by the end of the week. I am not arguing that timing with the planets, stars, seasons, Lunar phases and so on does not provide extra power to spells: I am simply arguing against the necessity for such extra power. If the magic works it will work at any time of the day or night.
I can hear ghostly complaints from Magicians: “You can’t perform love spells during the waning Moon”; “Money spells fail unless performed on a Thursday during Spring while the Moon is in Taurus, at the third or tenth hour of the night.”
Such pronouncements are common in magic—usually from people who do little or no practical work. Spells need not have ideal astronomical, seasonal, and weather conditions to be successful.
Those who wish to follow the old ways of timing magic with the Sun, Moon, and stars can find this information in any good magical textbook, but it is by no means a necessity.
If you need courage before facing a job interview, don’t look at the phase of the Moon—grab some thyme and get on with it!
Though some instances of magical timing are mentioned in this book, especially regarding the collection of specific plants, they may be followed, or not, as you please, with almost identical results.
Tools
Herb magic requires blessedly few tools compared to other types of magic. A mortar and pestle set is necessary to grind herbs and seeds, and a large wooden or ceramic bowl will be needed for enchanting herbs. Keep a large glass or enamelled pot (avoid metals) exclusively for brewing infusions or “potions.” Simple sewing supplies (needles, pins, scissors, cotton thread, thimbles) will come in handy in making sachets and poppets, and a good stock of various colors of cotton or wool cloth and yarn will be needed.
Candles and herbs, of course, are necessities, as is a censer (incense burner), candleholders, charcoal blocks, and jars in which to store your herbs.
The Altar
This is also called the spell table or work table, but I like the sound of “altar,” which is far less awkward, even though it gives a religious association to magic which may not always be deserved. However, “altar” will be used throughout this book.
A great deal of magic does not need the presence of an altar, but certain rites do. When performed at home, the altar is the place where spells are cast. It can also be used as a work table where herbs are enchanted, sachets composed, and where, in general, all magical work is done.
An altar may be any flat surface on which you can place candles, an incense burner, herbs, and any other materials needed for a spell. It can be the top of a coffee table or dresser, or a section of the floor. Wherever you can find a place is sufficient.
Some people who wish to acknowledge their religious beliefs place symbols of their faith on the altar. Statues and holy books are common, but any objects with which you feel comfortable may be placed on the altar, such as lucky charms, fossils, rocks, shells, and so on. Such natural objects may actually empower your magic further.
I cannot stress too strongly the advisability of performing magic outdoors when possible. Indoor spells work, of course, and most of us have to substitute a living room or bedroom for a forest clearing or lonely beach. Magic must be practical.
Outdoor altars aren’t always necessary; when they are necessary, they usually consist of a cleared section of ground, a flat rock, or a tree stump, but ingenuity can aid the Magician here. The altar is simply a place to perform magic, and is limited only by your imagination.
Visualization
The most “advanced” magical technique needed in herb magic is visualization; i.e., forming a picture in your mind of your need. (See Practical Guide to Creative Visualization by Denning and Phillips, Llewellyn Publications.)
Many books have been written on this subject, for students often complain that they have difficulty visualizing clearly. Usually, the ability is present but hindered by inhibitions.
Can you, at this moment while reading this book, see your mother’s face? What about that of your closest friend, or worst enemy?
This is visualization. In magic visualization is used to direct the power by forming a picture of your need: a car, a love, employment, and so on. If you need an object, visualize yourself owning it; if a job, see yourself working; and if love is needed, visualize a ring slipping onto your finger, or any symbol you associate with love.
The need must be visualized as if you have already obtained it, or as if it has already come to fruition. Use your creativity and natural visualization talents to really see your need. Don’t think of the reasons behind your need; simply see it in concrete terms.
As with everything from golf to cooking, practice makes perfect. Even if you’re never capable of completely visualizing your need, magic will work as long as the intention is there.
Other Considerations
This is a convenient heading for a variety of short topics, as evidenced by the diversity of material below. When possible, bathe before performing magic. A sachet of purification herbs added to the water can be a great help, also.
Dress in clean, comfortable clothing, or nothing at all, as you wish. Some practitioners wear robes and jewelry but this isn’t necessary.
It is also not necessary to abstain from sex, food, or liquids prior to magic. Do so if you wish, but it simply isn’t a requirement.
Most of the magic in this book is down-to-earth and deals with everyday problems. However, for important spells, especially those that deal with other human beings, perform a divination to make certain that the spell is necessary before using magic. Information and techniques of divination are included in my book Earth Power (Llewellyn) as well as Magical Herbalism.
As a rule of thumb, don’t cast spells for others unless you have their permission. One way to avoid such problems is to make up sachets and similar items for them (see directions in chapter 3) and give them as presents. Explain their uses and powers and the other person involved can choose to bring those vibrations into his or her life or not, according to their wishes.
Above all, have fun with herb magic. Although you should be serious when actually enchanting herbs and visualizing, don’t view every aspect of herb magic solemnly. It should be enjoyable.
Magical Principles
1. Magic is natural.
2. Harm none—not even yourself—through its use.
3. Magic requires effort. You will receive what you put into it.
4. Magic is not usually instantaneous. Spells require time to be effective.
5. Magic should not be performed for pay.
6. Magic should never be used in jest or to inflate your ego.
7. Magic can be worked for your own gain, but only if it harms none.
8. Magic is a divine act.
9. Magic can be used for defense but should never be used for attack.
10. Magic is knowledge—not only of its way and laws, but also of its effectiveness. Do not believe that magic works—know it!
11. Magic is love. All magic should be performed out of love. The moment anger or hatred tinges your magic you have crossed the border into a dangerous world, one that will ultimately consume you.