Crystals and herbs are popular ingredients for spellwork, especially in protective magic. While many people carry a lucky stone, others take along a crystal to aid in defensive magic as well as herbal amulets.

Some herbs have an all-purpose protective quality about them while others are known to guard against specific problems. The same is true for stones. Below are just some of the most common herbs and stones used for protection.

Mistletoe has a long association with protection of the home. Plant some outside your door to keep away unwanted visitors. Bay laurel, rue, frankincense can be carried on your person or used in amulets. They are also used in rituals for exorcisms. Mugwort and mullein are powerful protective and purification herbs. Dragon’s blood is a popular incense used for protection either in stick, cone, or resin form.

Some protective herbs that can be found in nearly every spice rack are:

• Basil for getting rid of spiritual entities.
• Dill and clove used in protecting children.
• Rosemary is not just for remembrance but also for general protection.

A simple amulet can be made in the form of a sachet. Sew two squares of cloth together on three sides and turn inside out. Place the herbs of choice in the opening and sew shut.

Many authors have published their impressions of the properties of crystals usually after meditation and experimentation with each stone. Below is a tip using the colors of certain chakras to help you quickly find the right stone to use either by placing them on the chakra while relaxing or carrying them on your person.

Some Pagans incorporate the Eastern concept of chakras into their practice. These are generally seen as colored circular energy centers in the ethereal body. The first chakra, also called the root chakra, corresponds to the physical body, wealth, groundedness, and general safety and is usually seen as red in color. Black is sometimes associated with this chakra as it has to do with being rooted to the earth. Black is a favorite color of magicians as it is believed to reflect negativity.

If you are at a loss for choosing the right protective stone, try any black, gray or red one to at least help bring a sense of grounding. By increasing the sensation of stability, you will be better able to handle situations that arise which require your immediate attention.

Some stones in this color range include:

• Hematite.
• Onyx.
• Smoky quartz.
• Ruby.
• Red jasper.
• Obsidian.

The sixth chakra is commonly called the third-eye chakra and is associated with clairvoyance, clear thinking, and the spiritual self. Its color is indigo which is between blue and purple. Imbalances in both of these chakras are believed to cause a spaced-out feeling.

Blue and purple stones are some of the most common used for third eye issues including psychic self defense. All of them have additional healing properties as well. Some crystals in this color range are:

• Azurite.
• Lapis lazuli.
• Sapphire.
• Amethyst.
• Charoite.
• Sugilite.

These are suggestions to get you started in protective magic using herbs and crystals. The stones associated with the first and sixth chakras aren't the only ones used for protection. Keep in mind that one crystal can contain many colors. The agate and tourmaline families are examples of this. The colors of one stone can correspond to different chakras. Bloodstone is green with red flecks and is used for the root and heart (green) chakras. This is where it is best to let your intuition be your guide.

Clear quartz crystals can be programmed with any intent from love to self-defense using a simple affirmation, meditation, or even an elaborate ritual.

Crystal and chakra healing are subjects worthy of separate study. Two of the best reference books I have found are Love is in the Earth: A Kaleidoscope of Crystals by Melody and Wheels of Life by Anodea Judith. Books can only give you guidelines based on what has worked for other people however. Using the information presented in them as well as meditating on different stones and herbs will help you find what works best for you.

References:

• Cunningham, Scott.  Magical Herbalism.  Llewellyn Publications, 1993.
• Melody.  Love is in the Earth: A Kaleidoscope of Crystals.  Earth-Love Publishing House, 1995.