Herb Magic: An Introduction to Magical Herbalism and Spells

by Patti Wigington

Let your magic take root with the craft of magical herbalism

Herbal magic is a powerful method of inviting protection, love, health, and wealth into your life―it can even aid you in finding guidance through divination. Perfect for fresh and seasoned herbalists alike, Herb Magic is your easy-to-digest guide to magical herbalism, introducing you to the spiritual side of herbs and how to use them in folkloric spells and rituals.

Dive into magical herbalism with a reader-friendly overview of this old-world magic belief system, including advice on the best time to practice, building an altar, and setting intentions. Learn about the healing properties of dozens of sacred herbs, how to unlock their power, and magical uses before exploring 75 easy-to-follow spells and rituals, including simplified magic for the witch on the go.

This magic herbalism book includes:

- Principles of magic ―A simple-to-navigate intro shows you the history of magical herbalism along with help on prepping and planning, as well as some of the preparations you’ll be working with.
- Magic herbs―Understand and honor your herbs to better your magical results with illustrated profiles for 40 herbs, including their magical qualities and benefits.
- Spells and rituals―Embrace the magic of herbalism every day with spells and rituals for protection, love, healing, wealth, and even divination―plus a handy herb glossary.

Empower and enrich yourself with the magical power of herbalism.

Genres: Witchcraft, Nonfiction, Spirituality, Magic, Reference, Magick, Wicca

184 pages, Paperback

First published April 21, 2020

Reviews

[Miranda Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Herb magic, also known as magical herbalism, is one of the oldest known forms of sympathetic magic, found in forklore all over the world.

This absolutely gorgeous little handbook focuses all about the various herbs and their impacts in history (and on the modern world).

The book begins by going into what Magical Herbalism is - the principles of herb magic, some information about how they're magical and how to practice magic using them.

I loved the little notes from the author scattered in throughout.

...no matter what your religious beliefs may be, you can practice magical herbalism. Herbs don't care which god or goddess - if any - you honor.

From there, the book lists forty magical herbs (from Allspice to Tarrow) and their histories.

If the herb has particularly beneficial or harmful properties, it was also included as well.

I absolutely LOVED the illustrations accompanying the herbs - I almost want to pick up a second copy to take apart and frame in my kitchen.

After all of the herbs were described and drawn, the book goes into some spells and rituals that use them.. There's a focus on protection, love, healing, wealth and divination.

I was fascinated by the various spells and...the sneaky ones also made me smile.

You may prefer magic that doesn't scream, Look at me, I'm doing spells, at the family or next-door neighbors. If that's the case, home decor crafts are your best friend!

All in all, I absolutely ADORED this one! I love obscure facts and detailed looks into the odd and mundane - and this one checked all the boxes.

I can't wait to start a herb garden and have some of the more decorative "spells" on display.

A huge thank you to Rockridge Press, Callisto Publisher's Club and Patti Wigington for sending a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

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[Brittany Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not sure why my review is no longer with the rating, luckily I had this review still saved on my notes. I'll repost: ⬇️
April 2020

The focus of this book is on the folkloric and magical uses of herbs, rather than medicinal applications. It provides a few traditional uses of herbs, but the overall theme is knowledge of the plants and their associations, and incorporating them in your spiritual workings. This is an Introductory to Magical Herbalism.

"Many practitioners believe prosperity spellwork works best when performed from need as opposed to greed."

The author's spiritual practice is rooted in traditional American and European Folk Magic. She is a licensed Pagan Clergy and is the founder of Clan Of The Stone Circle, a Celtic Pagan Tradition. (Funny, anything Celtic has been pulling my attention feelers lately, no wonder why I loved this book.) Her spells are derived/based upon the traditional folk magic practices of Western Europe and the British Isles, and the author's own experiences. They are positive spells for magical intentions of healing, love, prosperity, and protection. Baneful or negative workings with herbs are NOT used in this book.

The aesthetic of this book has my little, beginner herbalist heart gushing! The blue, green, and yellow earthy tones and hues used were perfect for the topic of herbs! The cover is GORGEOUS! It's so pretty and flowery, the illustrated pictures of the herbs were extremely helpful because I had never seen some of the plants before. This will make future identification much easier for me!

Herb Magic opens with terms and properties. After that section is an insight into 40 of the most common herbs with a little illustration of each plant. Follows, are 75 Spells and Rituals, this is where I found what I like to call "DIY Spiritual Decor" with intentional healing and protective purposes. They were categorized into the following: Protection, Love, Healing, Wealth, and Divination

The "Simple Magic On The Go" sections were for those who want to practice their spirituality on the go, or for those who simply don't have much time. I loved these cute tips! My favorite tip from this part of the book said to put some lavender essential oil on a little piece of cotton and put it in a locket; inhale when you need to feel rejuvenated. I need to find my essential oil necklace again because this is a tip that I know works for me.

I learned how to:
• Enchant Herbs- this was really neat and reminded me of Affirmations
"Heal my body, heal my soul, heal what's needed to make me whole."
• Do Tea Leaf Readings
• Make a natural DIY Pendulum out of Mistletoe Wood

My Favorite DIY Spiritual Crafts:
• Protective Wreath- to go on the front door of our home using dried herbs, it will smell good too! Bonus, the circle is an honored shape in sacred geometry!
• Protective Herb Planters- to go outside of the most frequented doors
• Herbal Braids- to hang (reminded me of a Smudge Stick, but braided beautifully, I've seen Sweetgrass Braids, they are so pretty.)
• Peaceful Protection Potted Plant- I'd like to do this with Rosemary for protection or Jade to increase luck and money. Always check what plants are toxic to pets before bringing into the home or yard! (Aloe almost killed one of our dogs, because we moved into a new home and didn't know!)
• Kiss Me Mouthwash Magic- I was looking for a natural mouthwash free of chemicals! Perfect!
• Apple Blossom Countdown- Divining with Herbs, this reminded me of the "Sorcerer's Stone"
• Soothing Sachet- to calm
• Healing Water Handwash- this is especially good for the pandemic right now
• Basil Wisdom- Reading Tea Leaves
• Moneybags Money Bag
• Check Your Wallet
• Penny Power
• Cash Register Charm (An old boss of mine used to do this, at the time I asked what the rock in the cash drawer was. Haha! "Good intentions", she said!)
• Wealth Wash for Your Home- spiritually cleaning my house with good intentions and visualizations IS something I do.
• Piggy Bank Money Magic- I do something similar to this, I'm now going to adjust a little bit and see what happens
• Spread the Wealth Money Oil- give money, get money.
• Psychic Amulet
• Spiritual Bath Blend
• Awakening Oil
• Sandalwood Clairvoyance Spell
• Self Awareness Spell
• All of these spells and rituals inspired my own ideas of Potpourri blends I'd like to make and place in various rooms for different aromas and intentions!

I like to live spiritually and intentionally; books like this empower that in me. Many thanks to the author for imparting her spiritual and herbal wisdom upon me. I'll be referring to this time and time again, it already sparked much inspiration in me to do my own workings. Thank you!

An important note from the author "use magic in tandem with medicine, not instead of it."

Because I'm into healing, spirituality, herbalism, religious freedom, natural medicine, and all things positive, I give much gratitude to the publisher Rockridge Press and Callisto Media for the early copy I received. I was under no obligation to write a review, my honest opinion is freely given.

[Brittany Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not sure why my review is no longer with the rating, luckily I had this review still saved on my notes. I'll repost: ⬇️
April 29, 2020

The focus of this book is on the folkloric and magical uses of herbs, rather than medicinal applications. It provides a few traditional uses of herbs, but the overall theme is knowledge of the plants and their associations, and incorporating them in your spiritual workings. This is an Introductory to Magical Herbalism.

"Many practitioners believe prosperity spellwork works best when performed from need as opposed to greed."

The author's spiritual practice is rooted in traditional American and European Folk Magic. She is a licensed Pagan Clergy and is the founder of Clan Of The Stone Circle, a Celtic Pagan Tradition. (Funny, anything Celtic has been pulling my attention feelers lately, no wonder why I loved this book.) Her spells are derived/based upon the traditional folk magic practices of Western Europe and the British Isles, and the author's own experiences. They are positive spells for magical intentions of healing, love, prosperity, and protection. Baneful or negative workings with herbs are NOT used in this book.

The aesthetic of this book has my little, beginner herbalist heart gushing! The blue, green, and yellow earthy tones and hues used were perfect for the topic of herbs! The cover is GORGEOUS! It's so pretty and flowery, the illustrated pictures of the herbs were extremely helpful because I had never seen some of the plants before. This will make future identification much easier for me!

Herb Magic opens with terms and properties. After that section is an insight into 40 of the most common herbs with a little illustration of each plant. Follows, are 75 Spells and Rituals, this is where I found what I like to call "DIY Spiritual Decor" with intentional healing and protective purposes. They were categorized into the following: Protection, Love, Healing, Wealth, and Divination

The "Simple Magic On The Go" sections were for those who want to practice their spirituality on the go, or for those who simply don't have much time. I loved these cute tips! My favorite tip from this part of the book said to put some lavender essential oil on a little piece of cotton and put it in a locket; inhale when you need to feel rejuvenated. I need to find my essential oil necklace again because this is a tip that I know works for me.

I learned how to:
• Enchant Herbs- this was really neat and reminded me of Affirmations
"Heal my body, heal my soul, heal what's needed to make me whole."
• Do Tea Leaf Readings
• Make a natural DIY Pendulum out of Mistletoe Wood

My Favorite DIY Spiritual Crafts:
• Protective Wreath- to go on the front door of our home using dried herbs, it will smell good too! Bonus, the circle is an honored shape in sacred geometry!
• Protective Herb Planters- to go outside of the most frequented doors
• Herbal Braids- to hang (reminded me of a Smudge Stick, but braided beautifully, I've seen Sweetgrass Braids, they are so pretty.)
• Peaceful Protection Potted Plant- I'd like to do this with Rosemary for protection or Jade to increase luck and money. Always check what plants are toxic to pets before bringing into the home or yard! (Aloe almost killed one of our dogs, because we moved into a new home and didn't know!)
• Kiss Me Mouthwash Magic- I was looking for a natural mouthwash free of chemicals! Perfect!
• Apple Blossom Countdown- Divining with Herbs, this reminded me of the "Sorcerer's Stone"
• Soothing Sachet- to calm
• Healing Water Handwash- this is especially good for the pandemic right now
• Basil Wisdom- Reading Tea Leaves
• Moneybags Money Bag
• Check Your Wallet
• Penny Power
• Cash Register Charm (An old boss of mine used to do this, at the time I asked what the rock in the cash drawer was. Haha! "Good intentions", she said!)
• Wealth Wash for Your Home- spiritually cleaning my house with good intentions and visualizations IS something I do.
• Piggy Bank Money Magic- I do something similar to this, I'm now going to adjust a little bit and see what happens
• Spread the Wealth Money Oil- give money, get money.
• Psychic Amulet
• Spiritual Bath Blend
• Awakening Oil
• Sandalwood Clairvoyance Spell
• Self Awareness Spell
• All of these spells and rituals inspired my own ideas of Potpourri blends I'd like to make and place in various rooms for different aromas and intentions!

I like to live spiritually and intentionally; books like this empower that in me. Many thanks to the author for imparting her spiritual and herbal wisdom upon me. I'll be referring to this time and time again, it already sparked much inspiration in me to do my own workings. Thank you!

An important note from the author "use magic in tandem with medicine, not instead of it."

Because I'm into healing, spirituality, herbalism, religious freedom, natural medicine, and all things positive, I give much gratitude to the publisher Rockridge Press and Callisto Media for the early copy I received. I was under no obligation to write a review, my honest opinion is freely given.

[Steve Cran · Rating 5 out of 5]

This little. Simple book on herbal magic is perfect in my opinion. The format is definitely aimed at the magical newbie. The working are simple and easy to do. As are the preparation which is how I like my magic short and sweet with nothing to complicated. This is a good place to start before going on to Sean Cunningham or other herbal experts. Another aspect about this book that I loved was that there were no incantations to any god, goddess or deity. This book is non denominational. Pagans and monotheists can access the magic.

THe layout of the book is simple as well. The first part of the book covers basic principles in magic. The second part give an inventory of different herbs, up to 40 of them. The survey is rather complete. The entries inform the reader about the magic uses of the herb, some healing info and its planetary ruler and element sign. The third part is spellwork and magic involving the herbs.

The spells and working in the third part cover protection, love,healing , money and divination. There is a chapter devoted to each. Like I said the working and preparation are simple.

Before signing off I would like to share some notes i took from my reading. A simple working for protection would be to plant three protective herbs in pots at your houses front door. On these pots you can draw protective symbols like pentacle, hamsah or runes. Dill and rosemary are good food additive to protect you from magic attack. I love oils and this protection oil is great. Take some catnip, comfrey, hyssop and vetivert and mix it with a carrier oil and stir is clock wise. A nice simple incantation that goes with is included. Herb of protection keep danger away watch over my home night and day.

This is just a small taste as to what this book offers. Enjoyable and informative.

[Weslyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is super easy to follow along with. It’s informative and organized. The only issue I really have with it is that some of the herbs mentioned (such as High John and Goldenseal) aren’t always easy to find nor are they affordable. I didn’t knock off stars for that because the author is pulling from reliable sources and those herbs are used in a lot of spells. Overall, great read. Highly recommend it to anyone new to herb magic!

I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Patti Wigington offers a perfect primer for practitioners new to Herb Magic, and I learned some along the way as someone with experience in herbalism. The graphics are lovely, with a diagram next to each herb (of course use a field guide if you want to find these in the wild and/or identify them.) I really appreciated the fact that the spells in the last section were referenced in the herbal section so that one could easily jump back and forth between sections. Also of note were the "simple magic on the go" sections at the beginning of each spellwork chapter. Let's face it, most of us like to do simple straightforward work, and if we have the opportunity to work with just one herb at a time, we might be able to jump right in more easily. Wigington's reference section is great, and I'm intrigued by the references to Hoodoo and to Slave Medicine.

If you're getting started on your magickal/witchy journey and wish to begin using herbs in that process, this is one of the most accessible and informative primers I've seen. Thank you, Callisto, for the review copy, and Brava Patti Wigington!!!

[Maryann Larucci-Troche · Rating 5 out of 5]

Informative

This book is a must to add to your Book of Shadows! It contains a vast amount of information regarding herbs, their metaphysical properties, how you can use them in spells, as well as giving you the actual ingredients and tools needed for the spell. This book references how you can obtain the herbs and many other books are referenced for your future reading.

I read this on my kindle and now plan to purchase the actual book. It’s a definite must have for witches!

[Vicky · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book packs a punch. There is a lot of information here – from the principles and basics, to descriptions of herbs, and spells and rituals to use them. The author included a brief history of herb use and includes explanations of infusions, sachets, burning, and more. The instructions are easy to read and understand and guide you in such a way that even a novice can do this. She gives you a listing of forty herbs with illustrations, common and Latin names, uses, and more. For each spell she guides you in what herbs to use, how to use them and what to do.

What I liked: I loved the ethics the author promotes – Do no harm. Accept responsibility for what you are doing, and magic requires effort. Do the work. She also warns you about the dangers of some herbs. I liked her instructions and guidance in different uses and properties of the herbs.

What I didn’t like: Very little. I’ve read other books on herbal magic but this was the first one I actually understood. A good basic place to start.

Recommendation: If you are interested in doing work with herbs, this should definitely be on your shelf, or in your hands. Highly recommended.

I received this book from the publisher.

[Lanae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chapter 1 = Principles of Herb Magic. This chapter explains the basics of herb magic, what people have thought of it, why timing and ethics in magic are important, etc.

Chapter 2 = About Magic Herbs. This chapter explains why herbs are important, how powerful they can be, the toxic and dangerous herbs. Properties and considerations (the gender of the herb, your magical intentions. Planetary rulers, elemental rulers, colors.

Chapter 3 = Practicing Magic. Here you will discover Info on the different types of spells and rituals. How to prepare. There is info on things like pendulums, amulets, infusions, etc. You will also find info on the most commonly used herbs and supplies.

Chapter 4 = Forty Magic Herbs. The title says it all for this chapter. Starts with Allspice, ends with Yarrow. Each page lists the common name, Latin name, folks name, gender, magical purpose, planetary ruler, and elemental ruler. The rest of the page will describe the herb and inform you of its magical uses. This section is printed with green borders, making the section easy to find in the book without relying on on index or bookmarks, as it stands out from the plain white pages.

Chapter 5 = Protection. This section includes a protection oil, protection pouch sachet spell, protection pocket charm, herbal braid, basil bath bag, protective wreath to guard your door, safe and secure smudge sticks , home purification wash for floors and doors, purification incense blend, keep your car covered protection charm, magical protection poppet, peaceful protection potted plant, vervain water, spell to stop a gossip, and a magical mayhem jar spell.

Chapter 6 = Love. This section includes a cool cat love sachet, lavender love incense, kiss me mouthwash magic, pocket love charm, love poppets, va-va-va-boom valerian oil, apple blossom countdown, candle spell to bring love into your life, patchouli passion, heartbreak healer, self-love bath bomb bag, herbal beauty glamour spell, fertility amulet, rosemary remembrance for long-lost love, and Hey baby basil magic.

Chapter 7 = Healing. This chapter includes a soothing sachet, healing incense blend, feverfew charm, magical mugwort healing dreams, spell to soothe a savage cycle, healing water hand wash, healing oils laundry soap, stress relief smudge sticks, soothing lavender pillow, get better bath spell, happy healthy whole poppet, healing weather for the sickroom, anxiety jar, healing comfrey candle spell, spell for post- traumatic healing.

Chapter 8 = wealth. This section includes moneybags money bag, check your wallet, plant a money tree, prosperity pocket charm, mandrake money manifestation, cool coin purse, penny power, cash register charm, bountiful blessings incense, patchouli payoff bath, beeswax money candle, wealth wash for your home, get the jump on the job salve, piggy bank money magic, and spread the wealthy money oil.

The book ends with a glossary of terms, two sources of herbs online, two book recommendations, three organizations, References, an index, acknowledgments, and finally about the author.

*disclaimer* The publisher provided this book for review. I only accept items I think I will like to review as it is counted as income and no one wants a tax bill for items they hated.

[Cozy Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautifully formatted engaging book that is a wealth of information on use of herbs. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity for review. My review opinion is my own.

Immediately I was drawn to the beauty of this book as well as the extensive detail of each of 40 different herbs. This book is easy to follow for anyone with a limited knowledge and enjoyable for those of us that are knowledgeable and wish to expand our knowledge. The author has included for her readers descriptions of herbs, spells and rituals to use them. History of herb use is here. which is fascinating. The author's inclusion of spell work, burning and use of herbs as medicine is extensive . All in all this is a beautifully done well presented body of work that is most helpful for all interested in expanding their knowledge of herbs. Very well done to the author. My recommendation is 5 stars and I highly recommend everyone purchase this in hard cover for use in their home libraries.

[Aiden Darling · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is perfect for beginners in herbal magick, it takes herbalism from a purely folk magick perspective so if you're looking for medicinal qualities this book doesn't have that but it never promises to do this either. From someone who reads occult and witchcraft books for reference and curiosity sake it's a great book! It's easy to read, very straight forward information, tons of great sourcing, and a great reference for people that consider themselves intermediate or advanced as well. The amount of spell ideas in this book is extensive and very informative. Overall I would absolutely recommend this book and can see myself in the future referencing it as well.

[Victoria Metcalf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Feel good read

After the second and third entries I wanted to drop everything including my own writing gather up the supplies I've been accumulating and go to work. I especially like the fact the author uses items I'm more likely to have on hand. I didn't find that my interest was stirred only to be put on hold where I had to go to the Internet to purchase something and then wait for the mail. Thank you w that. Mountain writer.

[Hollidaisy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book and think it is laid out really well. The information presented is also useful. What prevents a 5 star for me is that the spells and intentions are very common and surface level. All love, protection, etc which is fine but I really was hoping for some specifics and uniqueness in a book dedicated to herb magic. It is a good reference book no doubt, but contains much of the same information as most others.

[Tiffany Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book. I've always been attracted to the healing properties of different herbs. This book has introduced me to their magical properties as well. I would highly recommend this book for those new to using herbs in their magical work.

I would like to thank Netgalley and the Publisher for providing me with a copy free of charge. This is my honest and unbiased opinion of it.

[Debra Strasser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Herb Magic is beautifully formatted and engaging. From our wild plants to our simple kitchen spices, herbs are more than flavor and medicine, their folklore ties up the magic into what you need. Herb Magic will be your go to book for everyday magic and beyond.

[AnnaMarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the intro/primer I wish I'd had 20 years ago.

Detailed but not overwhelmingly so, focused on 40 "basic" herbs that work for a multitude of purposes, & featuring GREAT magickal formulas that are easily tailored for individual needs.

Well done, Patti!

[Paige Ovanisian · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not for me. I prefer a more intuitive approach to such matters, for the most part. However, this is full of information, and may be suitable for beginners who want to dip their feet into magickal associations of herbs.

[Melany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book!

If you're interested in learning about how herbs can be used in magic, this is the book for you. Ms Wigington does a wonderful job of breaking down and explaining the ins and outs of herbal magic. The book is vibrant and a joy to read!

[Szilvi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quite informative, although the writer focuses mostly on herb folklore and spiritual properties/practices and doesn’t offer much else.

I found the condescending tone of the author annoying thus the 3 stars.

[Cassidy Macomber · Rating 5 out of 5]

As Usual, Another Good Book From Patti Wignington!

I enjoy Patti's books. They are always very informative and easy to read. I would highly recommend her books to anyone looking to get into the craft.

[Caleb Mar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Didn't like the way some of the sections seemed redundant. Kind of took me out of the moment, but this book did all it was supposed to do. I think this is a good introduction to anyone who's interested in spells, herbalism, and the various factors in their magic.

[Carmen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I must have read something wrong when I requested this. I thought it was going to be how to use different herbs for healing properties and not magical. For example, feverfew for headaches.

[Lady Beverly Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was easy to follow and very helpful thank you for writing this book

[gladys l rivera · Rating 4 out of 5]

Herbsparkle

Like the way it held my wanting to learn and capturing the spirit of knowledge fast paste easy to images outcome of magic herbs oils.

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short, but good read.

Lots of good info on herbs. Really liked the crafting chapter.
Would love to find more books that include magical crafting.

[Lindsey Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

absolutely fantastic

I loved every minute of this. Such a comprehensive, straightforward guide for experienced and beginners alike. Will recommend to others for sure.

[Kamdyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ton of spells! Good reference

It’s a good reference for beginners and gathering what you need to get started. Plenty of spells and items to look for and through.