Dragons blood

What?! I hear your say, there is no such thing as dragons... Well here you stand corrected.. Because they do exist or I wouldn't be holding the resin in my hand. The blood red resin and flowers that resemble a dragons head are what gave this resin its name. It's scientific name is Daemonorops

Draco. Okay.. Okay... so its on a real fire breathing dragon... 

My Red Gold

It's has many medicinal benefits as well as magical.

Medicinally it's great for all things skin related, from eczema, psoriasis, cuts, bites, burns, stings, rashes, abrasions, sores, and wounds. It is high in antioxidant and anti inflammatory compounds, so it combats any kind of redness and swelling making this a fabulous addition to skin care cosmetics. It's powerful qualities even have anti-wrinkle effects as it actually 'repairs' the collagen balance in our skin. It is also antibacterial, antiviral, and anti fungal. So no wonder this is a Magickal all rounder, it beats any kind of synthetic ingredient hands down!! 

Not only is it used externally but can be used internally too. For stomach ulcers, diarrhoea etc.. 

It can be made into a face mask too!!! For The recipe follow the link below

Onyx Dragon face mask (For all skin types) - removes blackheads and impurities. recipe

Or if you prefer you can purchase this ready made in my shop

Magickal uses: 

Dragons blood has been used in many spiritual rituals to enhance protection, love, sexuality and evocation. 

If you are seeking a marriage proposal it is said that putting  your 'lovers' name on a small square of brown paper, cross it with their own name, fold dragons blood powder into the name-paper, and throw the packet onto glowing charcoal along with love me incense while saying their prayer, will bring marriage.

In hoodoo, there's a dual belief that dragons blood bring luck in money and love as well as warding off evil. 

Women would burn the resin in their window to invite love or address impotence concerns. 

It can be burned alone or with other incense ingredients.  For a loose incense recipe with dragons blood for magical workings click here. It can also used to add power and potency to any magical workings. Mix in some resin into a carrier oil of choice and let it steep for 4 weeks minimum, the dragons blood oil can then be used in the bath. For mojo bags, charm pouches click here

Magickal inks:

Dragons blood ink you will need:

Dragons blood resin

Alcohol

Gum arabica

Myrrh essential oil

Cinnamon essential oil

Use this ink for magickal workings. Best made during a waxing moon.

This gorgeous Dragons Blood Vial can be found here

Element: fire

Planet: Mars 

Gender: masculine

Disclaimer*******The information contained in this article is intended for information and educational purposes only. This information is not intended to be used to diagnose, prescribe or replace proper medical care. The plant described herein is not intended to treat, cure, diagnose, mitigate or prevent any disease. We recommend to seek professional medical treatment for any health condition you wish to cure, heal or solve

Loose Incense Recipes

Fragrancing Your Home Naturally and/or for Magickal Workings

Whats your reason for wanting to make your own incense? Mine was wanting to be able to make something from scratch and make it personal to me. Besides I had most of the herbs growing in my garden anyway, what better way to utilise them :) Let me know what your reasons are below and what your favourite blends are in the comments box. Sharing is caring! 

Here are a few recipes below: 

You choose as to quantities of each ingredient.

Protection blend :

Myrhh

Sage

Valerian

Calamus

Juniper Berries

Lavender

Bay leaf

Fennel

Shield Of Strength :

Dragons blood

Frankincense

Ginger

Woodruff

Bay leaf

Clover

Prosperity Blend:

Benzoin 

Elder

Sage

Basil

Allspice

Dill

Dream Vivid:

Aloeswood

Sage

Bay leaf

Mental clarity:

Aloeswood

Sandalwood

Rose Petals

Calamus

Spikenard

Positive mojo:

Paolo santo

Tonka beans

nutmeg

Star anise

If your unsure how to make these, don't have time, or don't have the ingredients to hand, I will gladly do it for you! take a look at my shop here

To Be Or Not to be a Dragon (Face mask recipe)

Onyx Dragon face mask (For all skin types) - removes blackheads and impurities.

Here's a beauty recipe for you all:

Onyx Dragon face mask (For all skin types) - removes blackheads and impurities.

ingredients used: 

2 Tbsp Black Kaolin clay (if black can't be found substitute with white)

1 Tbsp Activated Charcoal

1/2 tsp Dragons Blood resin powder

100ml Witch Hazel 

1 Tbsp Echinacea

Mix the Kaolin Clay, Activated charcoal, and dragons blood resin powder in a glass bowl. 

Place your 100ml of witch hazel and echinacea into a glass jar and put it in a warm dark cupboard for at least 3 weeks the longer the better, or if you are impatient like me, the heat extraction method is much quicker. 

All you need for this method is a small saucepan. Place the tbsp of echinacea and the 100 ml of witch hazel into your saucepan, and simmer on the lowest heat possible for 30mins, keep the lid on your pan, so as not to loose essential beneficial elements of your echinacea. Now take your pan of the heat and let this mixture cool down to room temperature. You will now find that you have less than 100ml witch hazel, so top up in the next step if needed, with plain witch hazel. 

Once cooled, strain the liquid and add it slowly to your died ingredients until you have a consistency that you like (try a liquid paste). If you find you need more liquid, then add some more witch hazel. and there you have it! Your very own super charged, antioxidant, anti aging, scar healer, anti-inflammatory, collagen booster, pore cleansing face mask. This will keep for a week in the fridge and gives you more than one use. 

Here you can see its a liquid paste

However if you have a busy lifestyle and don't have the ingredients to hand, you can find this item in my shop here

Magickal Body Scrubs

Body scrubs... what are they and why on earth would you want to use them?!

I will give you a few reasons below...

Here's the difference between a salt and a sugar scrub:

Salt scrubs are generally more abrasive because of their sharper edges and, therefore, do a better job at smoothing the rough skin of the body. What really separates salt scrubs from sugar scrubs is that they offer therapeutic, mineralization benefits. Sea salts, are natural purifiers that remove the toxins that block the pores of the skin. It helps the skin breath easier, promotes better circulation, tightens the skin and improves skin texture. There are many sea salts used in scrubs including Himalayan, Mediterranean, Hawaiian and Dead Sea Salts from Israel. These various salts have different trace minerals, which include calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper and iron. The minerals help to promote circulation, reduce the inflammatory response, and act as a detoxifying agent and general muscle relaxant.

Sugar scrubs are gentler than salt scrubs because the granule is round and therefore doesn’t have any ability to “cut” the skin. It’s a far better choice for sensitive skin types and the only choice for the face. Sugar granules dissolve more easily in hot water, and they are less abrasive than salt scrubs. While sugar scrubs don’t have the mineral benefits of salt scrubs, they are less drying, and many natural scrubs now use natural sugars which contain the nutritive properties of sugar cane. Because of the smaller, finer granules, sugar scrubs make a gentle exfoliant that is suitable for next to all skin types and conditions. The glycolic acid content of sugar is another plus, helping to protect skin against harmful toxins. Vital for the maintenance of healthy skin, this acid works to both condition and moisturize. Even for seriously rough and dry skin, sugar scrubs are great because sugar sizes come in fine, medium and course. But choose your scrubs wisely. Do not use a body scrub on your face – it’s too rough. Sugar also has the benefit of melting as you use it, from the heat of your skin, so you can customize the product based on your personal skin type and need.

Some people use them to help with circulation, others feel cleansed, (imagine how many icky dead skin cells are removed, so that we can witness the beautiful glowing skin beneath!) There is something deeply spiritual, cleansing with a scrub and massaging your whole body. Some like the fact it has super moisturizing benefits. I love all the aromas that nature can provide, but predominantly the more earthy spicy aromas that tingle your senses. I have personally used mine as a cleansing protective agent pre-spellcasting or even just for fun. Scrubs can be used in both the bath or the shower.

Scrubs have been used for hundreds of years, for exfoliating the face and body. Chances are you have a myriad of products for your skin and hair, but you tend to forget a good body scrub. The combination of cleansing, exfoliation and massage, provides benefits that go beyond what a bar of soap can do. A decent body scrub can improve your skins health and texture simply by adding it to your bath or shower routine. A scrub works in a few ways, as you massage it over your body, the exfoliating granules Slough off dead skin, and the rubbing action boosts circulation and helps drain your lymph nodes, by increasing blood flow to the skins surface.

The Egyptian women would make a monthly ritual out of it spending whole days together massaging and scrubbing each other once the feminine moonphase was over. It was a way to be clean, to invigorate and stimulate younger looking skin and prevent wrinkles (with the oils used) from the scorching suns heat.

So what should you be putting in a scrub, well anything you would eat of course! For starters the basic ingredients are either sugar or salt for the scrubby factor. (None of these synthetic molecules, that have no health benefits whatsoever, we are talking about a 'real' scrub) Then you can add herbs, or berries and resins ground finely. then you can start to add clay's of choice, again each clay has different qualities and skin benefits, so choose as per your personal requirements.

Citrus peels are another way of getting antioxidants directly in contact with your skin, banish those free radicals I say!! (Just a note of warning here however, anything citrus-y has photo toxic qualities, meaning that you should not go out into direct sunlight right after use, so your best bet is do this at night, to allow your body to absorb all the goodness.)  Coffee granules are a perfect way of getting rid of stubborn cellulite, and toning those annoying jiggly bits on your thighs :)


After that you can then start adding your butters and oils, add these slowly as you really want your scrub to be the consistency of damp sand (see pic below). Once you are happy with the consistency of your scrub, you can add essential oils, this is not necessary but can do wonders for your mood.. think of all the times you gone to a spa or a beauty therapist and all aromas that are wafting around bring you to a sense of calm, they invigorate your senses and just basically put you in a happy place.

Each ingredient will do something different for your skin, I suggest you do your research for yourself as everyone is different.

Below is one of my favourite recipes. I like this particular one because I can share it with my partner, For me its a sensual, magickal, practice. Its not just a scrub its much much more than that. Remember that old saying...? Sugar and spice and all things nice?

Now with your Love Potion scrub I would always use a sugar base, as you want the sweet factor to rub off... literally!! So for sweetening up your lover go for sugar :) Heres a little bit about the ingredients used and why I use them.

Sugar: It acts as a humectant, which basically means that it draws in moisture from the environment around it and places it onto your skin. It is naturally occurring in AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) the high glycolic factor in sugar that helps generate skin turnover, promoting the young, fresh, youthful dewy look we all love. It helps greatly with aging and sun damaged skin. And because its granular,its a fabulous exfoliator, for body I would use normal granulated sugars, and for the face I would use brown sugar as it is softer and the granules are smaller.

Shea Butter: This is a a super moisturizing butter. It has a slight nutty smell to it. Reduces inflammation according to this study, so may be beneficial in some cases for people with acne. It's skin smoothing, by aiding the skins natural collagen production, so can be used on scars and stretchmarks to aid the healing process and minimize scarring. It also has a natural SPF of 6.

Almond Oil: This is a very light oil, it is hypoallergenic (unless you have a nut allergy),it is fully absorbed by the skin making it great for after bath application. It is naturally high in vitamin E, its one of the best natural treatments to aid in easing the symptoms of eczema and psoriasis. Its also fabulous for hair. 

Sandalwood essential oil: Sandalwood essential oil protects wounds from infection, soothes inflammations due to fever and other conditions, clears up spasms, tightens gums and muscles and helps stop hair loss. It can also reduce the chance of hemorrhaging, heal scars and after marks, give relief from gas, increase urination, fight infections, and it keeps skin smooth & free from infections. Finally, sandalwood essential oil traditionally cures coughs and colds, reduces blood pressure, increases memory, soothes nervous disorders and inflammations, and boosts your immune system. So as a sedative and a tonic substance, it is the perfect addition to your love potion :)

Patchouli essential oil: This can be used to fight depression and uplift mood, soothe inflammation resulting from high fevers, does not allow wounds to become septic, increases libido and cures sexual disorders. Furthermore, it helps to tighten gums and muscles, and it stops hemorrhaging, heals scars and after marks, promotes cell growth, eliminates body odor, increases urination and removes toxins. Finally, it is well known for its ability to cure fever, kill fungus and insects, as well as reduce emotional and nervous disorders.

Ylang Ylang essential oil: It fights against depression and uplifts mood, stops sebum secretion, protects against sepsis, increases libido and cures various sexual disorders, while also reducing blood pressure, curing nervous disorders, soothing inflammation and reducing the severity of nervous disorders.

Sage essential oil: It has been known to inhibit viral, bacterial, fungal and parasitic infections, and thus protects wounds against becoming septic, heals damages done by oxidation, soothes inflammation, clears spasms, increases the production of bile, and promotes digestion. Furthermore, it fights infections, opens up obstructed menstruation, cures coughs and colds, reduces fever, helps clear the bowels, stimulates discharges and generally boosts systemic functions

Red Kaolin Clay: This clay is rich in iron oxide and copper and low in aluminum and it was traditionally used in treating joint pain and washing to protect oneself from infections and disease. Red Kaolin clay has anti-inflammatory property good in treating skin that is inflamed and gums. It relieves pain caused by contusion, hematoma and bruises. It’s also reduces swelling on affected areas. Like the other Kaolin clays, it also stimulates blood circulation

White Kaolin Clay: White kaolin clay is rich in silicon and aluminum silicate and it is known to be the mildest of all clays. It provides a silky slip, a property that makes it ideal for sensitive skin and this mainly why it is often used in soaps and shave-creams. 

Here is the recipe below for those who are the DIY-ers out there, but if you dont have the time or the resources to make this let me do it for you! Just click here and purchase from my Etsy shop

Love Potion body scrub:

Add 1 cup of granulated sugar 

2 tbsp shea butter

2 tbsp Almond oil
1/3 cup of dried sage
1/8 cup red kaolin clay
1/8 cup white kaolin clay
1/8 tsp sandalwood EO
1/8 tsp patchouli EO
1/8 tsp ylang ylang EO
1/8 tsp sage EO

So go ahead and add a touch of magick alone or with a partner... I dare you :)

But most of all have fun!!!!!

Please be wary as the oils in this scrub may make surfaces slippery, take extra care. 

Imbolc Feb 2015

Imbolc, (pronounced “IM-bulk” or “EM-bowlk”), also called Oimealg, (“IM-mol’g), by the Druids, is the festival of the lactating sheep. It is derived from the Gaelic word “oimelc” which means “ewes milk”. Herd animals have either given birth to the first offspring of the year or their wombs are swollen and the milk of life is flowing into their teats and udders. It is the time of Blessing of the seeds and consecration of agricultural tools. It marks the center point of the dark half of the year. It is the festival of the Maiden, for from this day to March 21st, it is her season to prepare for growth and renewal. Brighid’s snake emerges from the womb of the Earth Mother to test the weather, (the origin of Ground Hog Day), and in many places the first Crocus flowers began to spring forth from the frozen earth.

The Maiden is honored, as the Bride, on this Sabbat. Straw Brideo’gas (corn dollies) are created from oat or wheat straw and placed in baskets with white flower bedding. Young girls then carry the Brideo’gas door to door, and gifts are bestowed upon the image from each household. Afterwards at the traditional feast, the older women make special acorn wands for the dollies to hold, and in the morning the ashes in the hearth are examined to see if the magic wands left marks as a good omen. Brighid’s Crosses are fashioned from wheat stalks and exchanged as symbols of protection and prosperity in the coming year. Home hearth fires are put out and re-lit, and a besom is place by the front door to symbolize sweeping out the old and welcoming the new. Candles are lit and placed in each room of the house to honor the re-birth of the Sun.

Another traditional symbol of Imbolc is the plough. In some areas, this is the first day of ploughing in preparation of the first planting of crops. A decorated plough is dragged from door to door, with costumed children following asking for food, drinks, or money. Should they be refused, the household is paid back by having its front garden ploughed up. In other areas, the plough is decorated and then Whiskey, the “water of life” is poured over it. Pieces of cheese and bread are left by the plough and in the newly turned furrows as offerings to the nature spirits. It is considered taboo to cut or pick plants during this time.

Various other names for this Greater Sabbat are Imbolgc Brigantia (Caledonni), Imbolic (Celtic), Disting (Teutonic, Feb 14th), Lupercus (Strega), St. Bridget’s Day (Christian), Candlemas, Candlelaria (Mexican), the Snowdrop Festival. The Festival of Lights, or the Feast of the Virgin. All Virgin and Maiden Goddesses are honored at this time.

Deities of Imbolc:

All Virgin/Maiden Goddesses, Brighid, Aradia, Athena, Inanna, Gaia, and Februa, and Gods of Love and Fertility, Aengus Og, Eros, and Februus.

Symbolism of Imbolc:

Purity, Growth and Re-Newal, The Re-Union of the Goddess and the God, Fertility, and dispensing of the old and making way for the new.

Symbols of Imbolc:

Brideo’gas, Besoms, White Flowers, Candle Wheels, Brighid’s Crosses, Priapic Wands (acorn-tipped), and Ploughs.

Herbs of Imbolc:

Angelica, Basil, Bay Laurel, Blackberry, Celandine, Coltsfoot, Heather, Iris, Myrrh, Tansy, Violets, and all white or yellow flowers.

Foods of Imbolc:

Pumpkin seeds, Sunflower seeds, Poppyseed Cakes, muffins, scones, and breads, all dairy products, Peppers, Onions, Garlic, Raisins, Spiced Wines and Herbal Teas.

Incense of Imbolc:

Basil, Bay, Wisteria, Cinnamon, Violet, Vanilla, Myrrh.

Colors of Imbolc:

White, Pink, Red, Yellow, lt. Green, Brown.

Stones of Imbolc:

Amethyst, Bloodstone, Garnet, Ruby, Onyx, Turquoise.

Activities of Imbolc:

Candle Lighting, Stone Gatherings, Snow Hiking and Searching for Signs of Spring, Making of Brideo’gas and Bride’s Beds, Making Priapic Wands, Decorating Ploughs, Feasting, and Bon Fires maybe lit. 

Things to do to for the crafty witch over this season:

Things to do at Imbolc.

Bless your candles for the coming year

Burn the Yule greens to send winter on its way

Weave Brigit crosses, ensuring the fertility of mind, body and spirit.

Make the Bride's Bed using the Corn (or Wheat)

Doll made the previous Lughnassadh. (Directions: Double over a

Bundle of wheat and tie it near the top to form a head. Take a bit of

the fiber from either side of the main portion and twist into arms that you tie

together in front of the dolly. Add a small bouquet of flowers to the 'hands', then you can decorate the dolly with a dress and bonnet.) Dress the doll in white or blue with a

necklace that represents the seasons. Lay it in a long basket adorned with ribbons; on either side of the basket,and say:

Welcome the Bride both Maiden and Mother;

rest and prepare for the time of the seed; cleansed

and refreshed from labors behind her; with the promise

of spring she lays before me."

Next morning, remove the dress and scatter the wheat

outdoors (or if you use corn, hang it up in a tree for the squirrels

and the birds). This can be seen in terms of the Lady's recovery

from the birthing bed and readiness to begin the turning of the

seasons anew The Imbolc Corn Doll represents the mother nurturing her son, who will grow and become her husband. This is the earth and the sun, which is still weak but gaining strength.
Plant the seeds in garden and nurture them.

Purification rituals

Brighid is the goddess of poetry. Write a poem in her honor, and read it aloud during any Imbolc ritual you may have planned

Cleanse and re-consecrate your ritual tools and clean your altar

Ritually cleanse your home and start your "spring" cleaning

On Imbolc Eve, leave buttered bread in a bowl

indoors for the fairies who travel with the Lady of Greenwood. Next

day, dispose of it as the 'essence' will have been removed

Place three ears of corn on the door as symbol of

the Triple Goddess and leave until Ostara

Make dream pillows for everyone in the family

Send an e-card to friends who are far away

Start something arty craft.

Excerpts taken from the book “Green Witchcraft” by Ann Moura

Crafty bits

Imbolc Wand

Materials:
Small Tree Branch,
Acorn,
Thin Brown String or Thread,
Yellow, Green, and Gold 1/4" Ribbon,
Small Gold/Silver Jingle Bells.

Children will love the sound of this magical wand as they walk about pointing and shaking it at plants and trees, invoking them to wake up from Winter's sleep to witness the union of the Bride and the Lord of the Forest.

Select a small branch about 1/2" to 3/4" in diameter. Cut top end flat. Approx. 1/2" below top score a groove (parents only) with a sharp knife.
Take 1' long piece of string/thread and tie in groove. Take another 1' piece of thread and tie in groove on opposite side of branch.
Place acorn at top of branch (flat end) and adhere with some glue. Now pull the string up over the cap and wind once around acorn. Repeat with all 3 other pieces of string.
Pull strings back down to the groove in the branch and tie off. This will hold the acorn in place.
Decorate the branch by wrapping it with the ribbons, leaving enough length at top for streamers. Tie gold/silver jingle bells to the ends of the ribbons

For smaller children, thread the bells onto the ribbon while wrapping the branch.

Tell the children about how the acorn-wand is a symbol of the Lord of the Forest, and how this magical wand helps the sleeping plants and animals wake up and prepare for Spring.

Heres something crafty to make that will do some good, perhaps make them for friends who are in need:

Dream Pillows
Cut a 4"x6" piece of fabric, sew 3 sides closed and turn it right side out. In a bowl combine about:
1/4 cup rose petals,
1/2 cup lavender flowers,
1/4 cup mugwort
1/4 cup chamomile.
Mix well. In another bowl pour approximately 1/4 cup buckwheat hulls,
flax seed or corn cob fiber.
5 drops lavender Essential Oil,
3 drops bergamot Essential Oil
onto the buckwheat or corn cob. Stir with a wooden spoon. Then, combine
them, the two together and spoon into your fabric bag you have sewn. Sew
the remaining side closed.

Stress Relief Pillow
1 part bay leaves
3 parts mugwort
1/2 part cloves
1 part lavender
1 part rose
take 1/4 cup of flax seed, buckwheat, or corn cob ground and add 3 drops
lavender, 3 drops rose essential oils. Mix everything together and put
into your pillow.
Make pillow as in above or make it the size you like. These can be
placed under your own pillow at night or hung above your bed.

Sweet Dream Pillow
3 parts mugwort
1 part lavender
1/2 part clove
1/2 part mint
Make a pillow like above. Add 3 drops lavender, and 3 drops peppermint
essential oil to 1/2 cup flax seed, or ground corn cob, or buckwheat.
Mix it all together and put into your pillow.
Also can use it as a potpourri.

With thanks to : craftways@yahoo.com

A member of the group ancientpagan@yahoogroups.com

Imbolc Potpourri

45 drops of Musk oil 'or' Myrrh oil
2 cups dried Heather
2 cups dried Wisteria
1 cup dried Oakmoss
1 cup dried yellow Tulip petals
½ cup dried Basil
½ cup chopped Bayleaves

*source unknown*

Incense by Scott Cunningham

3 parts Frankincense

2 parts Dragon's Blood

1/2 part red Sandalwood

1 part Cinnamon

a few drops of red wine

a pinch of the first flower of the season-dried

Braided Altar Rug

Braided rug making instructions: use those old fabric scraps!
*source unknown*

Materials Needed

In order to create your own braided rag rug, you will need only a few
supplies. The most important of these supplies is a variety of
leftover scrap material. The scraps can be of any type and any
pattern. The only requirement is that the scraps must measure at
least two inches wide. Scraps wider than two inches should be cut
into two inch strips and set aside for easy use. For those who don't
have many scraps, I suggest checking with area thrift stores before
purchasing new fabric. Often, scraps are donated and can be bought
for very little cash. You will also need thread in either a clear
nylon or a color to match the general mood of the fabrics chosen, and
a thick, sturdy needle (a curved upholstery needle works best, but
any thick needle will work).

Putting it All Together

The first task necessary before braiding can commence is to prepare
the strips for braiding. Make sure you have cut all fabric into two
inch strips. Then sew each strip together end-to-end with right sides
facing until you have three long strips. The longer the strips, the
larger the rug will be, and vice versa. You may use more than three
strips if you are familiar with the process. If you are worried about
frays along the cut ends, spray the strips with a spray adhesive or
Fraycheck. In the event that neither of these are available to you,
clear fingernail polish will also work when applied to the edges;
however, this method takes a great deal of time and patience. It's
perfectly okay to braid the strips with no treatment. The frays that
eventually evidence themselves add character to the rug and add more
of a country flair to the finished work.

Next, tie the three strips together. Place something heavy on the
tied end (or have someone hold it for you) to make braiding easier.
Begin braiding using the method most familiar to you. You can remove
the heavy object (or release your helper from holding on to the other
end) when you feel you've braided enough to prevent the tied end from
twisting as you go.

When you have all your strips braided, sew the loose ends together.
Carefully coil the braid on the floor, starting from the center and
working your way outward. For a circular rug, simply coil in a
circle, starting with a very small coil. For an oval, lay
approximately one foot of braided strips along the floor. Holding the
strip down firmly, begin the coil around the one foot braid. Feel
free to experiment with other shapes until you find the one that
suits you best.

When you have finally shaped the rug into the pattern you desire,
start sewing the rows of coil to each other, keeping all stitches on
the top side of the rug. Once secured tightly, fasten off.

If you wish to add a non-slip surface to your finished rug, you have
several options. The two simplest (and cheapest) ways are paint and
rubber backing. By adding designs with Puff Paint (found in the craft
aisle of your local department store), you create a unique surface
that will grip most vinyl and hardwood floors. Just be sure the paint
is completely dry before placing the rug on the floor, or your rug
may actually stick. An alternative method would be to buy some of the
rubber backing used in drains, cabinets, and counters. Your local
Dollar General or Family Dollar will usually carry these at a very
reasonable price. Use liquid Super Glue to adhere the rubber to the
rug. Trim along the edges as necessary.

That's it! Enjoy your rug!

By The Light Of The Silvery Moon...

Abundant Mother, Moon So Bright

Hear My Plea Upon This Night,

Your Fertile Power Lend this Spell

Make it Potent, Strong and Well

Below is a chart of the various moons throughout the year from Tarot.com

For Centuries womens menstrual cycles were always in sync with the lunar cycle. This was all before industrialisation, processed foods and modern day living. In Traditional cultures and the natural way of  living all women would ovulate by the full moon and menstruate by the new moon and this was every woman's default. Anything different causes hormonal disruption and biological chaos to our cycle.

Think about the gravitational pull as the moon waxes and wanes, and what effect it has on our oceans. Intrinsically we are connected to mother nature, and as time goes on these effects of the moon on our body will come to light through science.   

Think about all the items that can cause havoc with our internal body clock, and its happy equilibrium. Contraceptives, antibiotics, stress, refined foods and more. 

Artificial light has a lot to answer for. We create melatonin when we sleep and to be precise it happens around midnight. For good hormonal balance we need a good nights sleep, and if you can have bedtime at 10pm would be ideal and a total of 8 hours sleep is beneficial to help reset hormones. 

'Lunaception' was first published in the 70's by Louise Lacey, it makes for a very good read on how to manipulate light to reconnect with the moons cycles.

Moon Magic has been used for a very long time to bring about the spell caster good fortune, fertility, love and more.. 

 Moon Cleanse Juice/Smoothie

Nature Ebbs and flows all around us and reconnecting with mother earth with what she provides and timing it in with the lunar cycle is what is called for. Herbs/veg that are beneficial to female health are as follows:

2 green apples
2 oranges peeled
1 lemon peeled

12 leaves of a mixture of kale, swiss chard, and spinach
8 stalks of celery
1 cucumber
handful of parsley
1 inch piece of ginger root (or 1tsp ground powder if not available)
2 inch piece Turmeric (or 2tsp ground powder if not available)

Pop all ingredients through either use a juicer or a blender, whichever you choose that is best for you. This is enough for 1 days nourishment, consume within 24 hours. 

Drink this around the full moon period. 1 day before the full moon, day of full moon and 1 day after the full moon. Use the full moon chart above to time your Herbal Moon cleanse routine. 

Herbal Vitality Tea

Herbs are an excellent way of balancing your hormones, and this combination is a brilliant for balancing progesterone and estrogen levels within the body. Bringing your body back into alignment with its natural rhythms.

3 parts raspberry leaf

1 part chaste tree berries

2 parts nettle leaf

1 part astragalus root 

1 part oatstraw

1 part blessed thistle

2 parts peppermint

to use, take one teaspoon per cup of hot water and allow to steep for about 3-5 mins before consuming. Add honey to taste

or you could make a tincture out of this made from either vodka, AVC or glycerine. Just place all herbs in a jar, and cover with medium of choice. Place the jar in a dark cupboard and shake every couple of days for the next 6 weeks (this makes for a stronger herbal remedy)

(not suitable for pregnant or nursing mothers) If you have an existing medical condition please consult a medical practitioner before taking anything new. This information is by no means intended to replace any medical advice, please do your own research accordingly for any of these recipes provided.

Happy Lunar cycles :)

Your Crowning Glory

A Beautiful Mess of Tresses

As you may have guessed this post is all about hair... long hair, short hair, curly hair, straight hair, fine hair, thick hair, red, brown, blonde, black hair, messy hair, unruly hair... the list can go on hair lol 

I shall be giving you a few hints and tips, and recipes for how to make your own hair products naturally.

This is a pic I took of my hair today its two days in from washing it, unstyled. I have naturally coarse quite greasy hair that cannot make up its mind. 

Our hair defines us, we all want it to look its best, it's our main accessory to our wardrobe. So I know when I am having a major wardrobe malfunction it stems from having a bad hair day. We all get those moments and it cant be helped, from shifting hormonal patterns to a bad diet. All we can do is eat the best organic food we can find, treat our insides well as we do out outsides, and our body, hair and skin will reward us back accordingly.

So to start, you will need to make sure you are eating all the right things and drinking plenty of water, as a solid foundation. (That will come in a different post at a later date) 

To make a start with caring for your hair naturally, it takes patience and time. There are quite a few recipes out there for home made shampoos, for which I have personally tried and tested most of them. I have had some serious bad hair days as a result of that (plus I have the photos to prove it!) 

The transition over from commercial detergent based shampoos (that have sls's parabens/preservatives and lots of other nasty chemicals that I cannot even pronounce) to natural is not an easy task. Most people don't stick to the transition as it can take up to 6 weeks for hair and scalp to balance itself out with its oil production and normalise. I know this, as I nearly gave up. But I figured I have come this far, it would be a shame to stop now. I ended up having to wear hats and head scarves over that 6 week period as my hair was an icky sticky mess and looked a very sorry sight indeed. However I was determined I was going to get this right. 

Now after a year of using a natural solid bar base shampoo, my crowning glory is at its finest it has ever been. It is now half way down my back its not been cut for that whole year, and I have not one single split end. 

I use natural hair dyes like henna, indigo, walnut powder, amla powder (all on separate occasions) All of these are very good for your hair and act like deep conditioning treatments as you are dying!

The one I use the most is the amla powder maybe once every two weeks. I mix it in with coconut milk until it becomes a paste much like custard texture and slather my hair in it. Wrap it up in cling film and leave it on for half an hour, rinse, then I go about washing it normally with my shampoo bar. Amla powder is made out of dried indian goosberry, and naturally darkens and deep conditions hair. As you can see doing things naturally seems back to front. but its the best way to do it. You condition then you wash.

Now onto shampoo bars. They are good for the environment as they don't use plastic packaging, and do not contain any nasties.

Here's a basic recipe that I use to make a luxurious shampoo bar:
What you will need is: 
5oz Castor oil
2oz Cocoa butter
9oz coconut oil
3oz Jojoba oil
9oz Olive oil
2oz Shea butter
1oz Beeswax

10oz water*
4.05oz of lye

*here you can make a herbal infusion of your choice instead of just plain water
Also optional but not necessary up to 2% essential oils of choice. 

As there are hundreds of tutorials online of how to make your own cold process soap,I shall let you do your own research. 

Dont want to make it? You can find it in my shop here or visit my store for various scented shampoo bars.

Citrus Burst shampoo bar

My youngest showing off her locks after freshly washing it lol hers is fine and flyaway

My Eldest has the thickest most unruly hair on the planet. I took this photo of her not long after getting out of bed haha she was not impressed with me.

As you can see from the above photo's all three of us have very different hair types. We all use my shampoo bars and we don't use a conditioner anymore. 

This bar makes for a very dense lather and is highly moisturising to the point I don't need a conditioner. But for extra added shine I give a final rinse to my hair with a Apple Cider vinegar solution, which is:

1tbsp ACV
1cup water**
10-12 drops of essential oils of choice. Please note if you add the essential oils you will have a lingering scent on your hair until your next wash.

**Another variation of this is to make a herbal tea instead of plain water and add the essential oils, or choose to just have the herbal tea.

A good mix of herbal tea recipe for all hair types is as follows:
This one is an all time favourite in my house as I tend to have all these herbs to hand and one size fits all :)

Rosemary & Thyme herbal rinse for all hairtypes:
1Tbsp rosemary
1Tbsp thyme
1tbsp comfrey
1tbsp calendula
1tbsp marshmallow root
1tbsp burdock root

Mix it all together in a bowl and store in a jar to use whenever needed. 
To use, all that is needed is 1 tbsp of herb per hot cup of water, cover (to allow for all the herbal goodness stay in the tea) steep for around 15 mins strain out the herbs, then rinse over your hair.. and thats it! How simple is that!

If you don't have the time or the herbs to make this yourself please don't forget to visit my website to get yours today. For rinses specifically for different hair types please take a look at the different options available.

Here is an explanation and breakdown of what each herb is good for:

Rosemary stimulates new hair growth by improving the circulation to your scalp. It is antibacterial and gently cleanses. Increases shine to your tresses, fights premature graying, and also relieves irritated, dry, flaky scalps. 

Thyme has antiseptic and antifungal properties that cleanse, heal and soothe the scalp. It's helps ease dandruff and stimulates the hair follicles to help with hair loss.

Comfrey, gives the conditioning 'slip' that your hair needs therefore softening your hair. Therefore giving lifeless hair body and bounce. Your hair will feel softer, shinier and stronger. 

Calendula, another soothing herb for sensitive scalps, rich in plant minerals that protect hair from free radicals, and the scalp from bacterial growth. Adds shine to dull hair. 

Marsh mallow root, is high in mucilage, giving extra slip, to help detangle, condition and moisturise hair. High in plant proteins, marsh mallow nourishes the scalp promoting healthy hair growth and lustre.

Burdock Root, rich in fatty acids that stimulate blood flow to the scalp, nourishes and strengthens hair follicles, to promote healthy hair growth and improve the overall condition of hair. The silica and phytosterols in burdock help soothe irritated scalp conditions like dandruff, decrease breakage and repair hair while adding sheen, hydration & luster. It increases shine and gives body to limp hair. The mucilage in Burdock Root also helps add “slip” to your hair to make detangling easier.

How to clarify your hair:

If you find your hair is quite gunky and has a build up of styling products, two ingredients are needed. Bicarbonate of soda and water. before you wash your hair prepare a mix by adding 1-2 tbsp of bicarb to a cup or two of water wet your hair then rinse it through, massage your scalp and bring it down the shaft of your hair. Then rinse your hair with water and wash as normal.

For a more intense clarifying mix, make your bicarb solution into a paste by adding less water.and massage it gently to the scalp for a few mins. Wash it out with water then wash hair as per normal.

I will write up a separate post on how to make your own hairstyling products naturally, from hair balms, to hairspray, to hair gel... look out for the next post

Happy washing!!