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Book of Shadows -
Gardening
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Written by Madame Aradia
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Sunday, 16 November 2008 23:08 |
Ancient Japanese cultures hung pine branches over their door ensure lasting happiness in the home...for pine needles are evergreen... They thought the pine was a symbol of youth and longevity. Rich in amino acids and protein, the pine nut was as valuable to some Native American Tribes as Buffalo were to others. Pine needles were even used to make baskets and sometimes even clothes..that doesn’t sound very comfortable! It is even thought that very ancient cultures burned pine wood in their campfires because the resin the the wood make it burn longer and a smoking pine log would quickly start burning again if a few dry branches were thrown on it.
During the dreary winter months, burn pine needles to cleanse, purify, and refresh your home. Use them in a bath for the same reasons. Ancient cultures believed hanging pine branches over your bed would keep illnesses at bay and forming a cross of pine branches over your fireplace would keep evil from entering your home. Some believe carrying a pine cone with you will increase fertility. It is also said it is best to gather pine cones on the Midsummer when using them for magical purposes.
Believe it or not, pine trees are used for medicinal purposes as well. The needles of some evergreen is used to ail in the recovery from scurvy (which is pretty rare these days). Pine tar is used in the recovery of lung illnesses, such as bronchitis, as well as in lotions and ointments to treat eczema, psoriasis, sciatica, and other skin diseases. The young shoots of the pine trees have been used in making liquors and beers.
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What is a "Book of Shadows"?
Originally, the "Book of Shadows" was a term that referred to a coven's collection of spells and secrets. In modern culture, the term is used to refer to a witch's personal diary and/or journal. The purpose is to keep a record of everything the witch learns and discovers. While usually kept private, I have decided to make mine public in the form of a blog. I have done this in the hopes of helping other find magic in everyday life, and especially in the practice of gardening.
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