For those interested in getting involved in medicinal herbalism, chamomile makes a good first foray into the art.  It is readily available in any supermarket, has a long history of use, and has application for a wide range of conditions.  Additionally, it has an unoffensive apple aroma and a pleasant flavor and as a result makes a wonderful herb to use as a base when making an infusion that includes more potent herbs.

Chamomile can be used:

• to help alleviate nausea, including motion sickness
• to aid in relaxation before bed
• to help relieve cramps (stomach or menstrual)
• to ease the discomfort of arthritis
• to lessen the severity of a tension headache
• to soothe certain skin irritations  (as a paste)
• to add golden highlights to the hair (as a hair rinse)
• to ease discomfort related to colic or teething
• to lessen the severity of seasonal allergy symptoms

Additionally, chamomile can be used magically for purposes related to:

• healing magic
• love spells
• luck spells
• rites that invoke a Solar deity

Precautions:

• persons with allergies to ragweed may have a reaction to chamomile
• chamomile contains natural blood thinners and may be inappropriate for those with certain conditions or those taking certain medications

This was written as a compliment to a great new feature over at Clan of the Cats called Witchy Wednesday.  This new weekly feature includes sketches of one of my own favorite fictional witches, Chelsea (though after reading about her for like 9 years I feel like I know her), with a bit of comedic commentary about living a Pagan life.

Check it out!!!

Blessings

Mama Kelly

Sources:

http://www.gardensablaze.com/HerbChamomileMed.htm

http://www.altnature.com/gallery/chamomile.htm

http://www.anniesremedy.com/herb_detail13.php

http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-951-GERMAN+CHAMOMILE.aspx?activeIngredientId=951&activeIngredientName=GERMAN+CHAMOMILE&source=2

Note:  This article is for informative uses only and is not meant to be taken as specific medical advice.  As always, do not try to diagnose yourself, consult your physician or pharmacist before adding any supplement to your regimen, and be aware that any product is capable of producing an allergic reaction in some segment of the population.

Written by Mama KellyTags:healing, herbalism, herbs, magic

Here is a very nice Natural Healing Meditation that only takes 10 mins. A nice way to start and\or end the day, or any time you need to just relax and enter a healing space. Taking the time to nurture and renew yourself each day is a good way to protect your health. It incorporates the elements and other positive spirits, the music is soft and the visual images are a good focus.

Wising everyone Health and Happiness, Lady Rose

Written by Lady RoseTags:healing, meditation

Miscarriage Memorial – Healing Emotional Pain

This is a topic close to my heart as, while I have 2 beautiful children, I have also lost 2 pregnancies. Miscarriage affects up to 25% of all diagnosed pregnancies, it is much more common than most people are aware.

Link to the Ritual:  Dust in the Wind  (A Memorial for Unborn Children)

Blessing, Mama Kelly

Written by Mama KellyTags:healing, miscarriage, ritual