Rosemary: January Herb of the Month

In some native languages, the word “herb” means “those who care for us”. Herbalism, the practice of utilizing herbs for healing purposes, benefits the mind, body and soul and is a big part of the green witch’s spell work.

The fragrant healing herb rosemary often goes unnoticed although herbs have played medicinal roles forever. Rosemary has many medicinal, holistic and magickal uses. It helps to improve focus, concentration, longevity and memory. It can aid is lowering blood pressure, helps with circulation and eases digestion. Surprisingly, rosemary can also be used as an antidepressant and antiseptic. Like many other herbs, it relieves pain and fatigue and stimulates nerves. Rosemary vapors help to improve respiration and repels insects. You can use rosemary to aid in meditative practices and trance work. Rosemary can be utilized to cleanse before any spiritual practice or ritual. When invoking spiritual assistance, rosemary is often used as an offering. It can also be incorporated into exorcisms and protection spells.

HARVESTING THE HERB

Before you use your herb in your practice, take care to research the herb. Know what the herb will do. Is it safe to be ingested? Will burning the herb result in toxic smoke? You may want to document your findings in your Book of Shadows or a journal for future reference.

Know how you want to use the herb. What are the benefits of the herb? How will the herb be cultivated? Does the herb have a shelf life when harvested? Who should/should not use the herb? How will the herb be gathered and stored?

If your intent is to create the herb for someone else, be sure to inform the recipient of any and all extra ingredients. Be mindful of any sensitivities or allergies. Never collect the entire herb plant! Know which part of the plant to harvest: the stems, flowers or roots. Always take only what you need to ensure that the herb plant continues to grow and produce. All too often, plants of all kinds are destroyed due to over harvesting ( essentially, taking more than one needs) resulting in the plant’s inability to grow and replenish which leads to its eventual demise.

Once you have harvested what you need from the herb plant, remember to thank the plant for its abundance. Remember that harvesting is an exchange of energy, so leave something in return for the plant such as water which can be poured onto it.

Bless your herbs and your creations and do not give out or sell anything you haven’t first tested yourself.

Enjoy!