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The Poison Path Herbal: Baneful Herbs, Medicinal Nightshades, and Ritual Entheogens
A guide to safely working with the poisonous plants of the witches’ pharmacopoeia for magic, healing, and visions
• Explains how to work with baneful herbs through rituals and spells, as plant spirit familiars, as potent medicines, and as visionary substances
• Details the spiritual, alchemical, astrological, and symbolic associations of each plant, its active alkaloids, how to safely cultivate and harvest it, and rituals and spells suited to its individual nature and powers
• Shares plant alchemy methods, magical techniques, and recipes featuring the plants, including a modern witches’ flying ointment
Part grimoire and part herbal formulary, this guide to the Poison Path of occult herbalism shares history, lore, and information regarding the use of poisonous, consciousness-altering, and magical plants. Author Coby Michael explains how, despite their poisonous nature, baneful herbs can become powerful plant allies, offering potent medicine, magical wisdom, and access to the spirit realm.
Detailing the spiritual, alchemical, astrological, and symbolic associations of each plant, the author explores their magical uses in spells and rituals. He focuses primarily on the nightshade family, or Solanaceae, such as mandrake, henbane, and thorn apple, but also explores plants from other families such as wolfsbane, hemlock, and hellebore. He also examines plants in the witch’s pharmacopoeia that are safer to work with and just as chemically active, such as wormwood, mugwort, and yarrow.
The author shares rituals suited to the individual nature and powers of each plant and explains how to attract and work with plant spirit familiars. He offers plant alchemy methods for crafting spagyric tinctures and magical techniques to facilitate working with these plants as allies and teachers. He shares magical recipes featuring the plants, including a modern witches’ flying ointment. He also explores safely cultivating baneful herbs in a poison garden.
• Explains how to work with baneful herbs through rituals and spells, as plant spirit familiars, as potent medicines, and as visionary substances
• Details the spiritual, alchemical, astrological, and symbolic associations of each plant, its active alkaloids, how to safely cultivate and harvest it, and rituals and spells suited to its individual nature and powers
• Shares plant alchemy methods, magical techniques, and recipes featuring the plants, including a modern witches’ flying ointment
Part grimoire and part herbal formulary, this guide to the Poison Path of occult herbalism shares history, lore, and information regarding the use of poisonous, consciousness-altering, and magical plants. Author Coby Michael explains how, despite their poisonous nature, baneful herbs can become powerful plant allies, offering potent medicine, magical wisdom, and access to the spirit realm.
Detailing the spiritual, alchemical, astrological, and symbolic associations of each plant, the author explores their magical uses in spells and rituals. He focuses primarily on the nightshade family, or Solanaceae, such as mandrake, henbane, and thorn apple, but also explores plants from other families such as wolfsbane, hemlock, and hellebore. He also examines plants in the witch’s pharmacopoeia that are safer to work with and just as chemically active, such as wormwood, mugwort, and yarrow.
The author shares rituals suited to the individual nature and powers of each plant and explains how to attract and work with plant spirit familiars. He offers plant alchemy methods for crafting spagyric tinctures and magical techniques to facilitate working with these plants as allies and teachers. He shares magical recipes featuring the plants, including a modern witches’ flying ointment. He also explores safely cultivating baneful herbs in a poison garden.
256 pages, Paperback
Published October 26, 2021
80 people are currently reading
1072 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
November 3, 2021
There is no shortage of books on herbal correspondences, spells, and frankly absurd tales that are as baseless and misrepresentative of the ancient wisdom as most of what pop-culture witchcraft attempts to pass-off these days.
Most of those books are written by seemingly sacrosanct pop-culture figures, who somewhere along the line began to buy into their own nonsensical publicity and hype.
Not so with Coby Michael's brilliant work, The Poison Path Herbal: Baneful Herbs, Medicinal Nightshades, and Ritual Entheogens.
Having followed his social media posts for some time, I already admired the integrity and ethics the author demonstrates, but I was frankly and pleasantly blown away by the depth of his knowledge, research and thorough exposition in this book!
Combining a solid understanding of the occult history and application of entheogenic ritual and correspondence with a keen, often overlooked understanding of cultivating relationships with our plant-spirit allies; the author goes a step further and demonstrates a refreshing knowledge of herbalism in an easy-to-read format. This means many of the dangers of jumping into working with potentially deadly or dangerous plants are immediately discussed, making the approach safer and more sensible than most of the other books in this genre.
Having worked with entheogenic plants, and as a practitioner of the poison path for a little over 35 years now, I've never favourably reviewed any of the other books I've seen in publication; not because they are necessarily poorly written, but because they were dangerously incomplete.
Coby Michael leaves all of the new age bullshit out of the mix, and presents a book that is part research material, part herbal compendium and part grimoire, and that makes it comprehensive and invaluable.
I'm now using it as a required-reading resource material for my students in our mystery school, and recommending it to fellow practitioners the world over.
Most of those books are written by seemingly sacrosanct pop-culture figures, who somewhere along the line began to buy into their own nonsensical publicity and hype.
Not so with Coby Michael's brilliant work, The Poison Path Herbal: Baneful Herbs, Medicinal Nightshades, and Ritual Entheogens.
Having followed his social media posts for some time, I already admired the integrity and ethics the author demonstrates, but I was frankly and pleasantly blown away by the depth of his knowledge, research and thorough exposition in this book!
Combining a solid understanding of the occult history and application of entheogenic ritual and correspondence with a keen, often overlooked understanding of cultivating relationships with our plant-spirit allies; the author goes a step further and demonstrates a refreshing knowledge of herbalism in an easy-to-read format. This means many of the dangers of jumping into working with potentially deadly or dangerous plants are immediately discussed, making the approach safer and more sensible than most of the other books in this genre.
Having worked with entheogenic plants, and as a practitioner of the poison path for a little over 35 years now, I've never favourably reviewed any of the other books I've seen in publication; not because they are necessarily poorly written, but because they were dangerously incomplete.
Coby Michael leaves all of the new age bullshit out of the mix, and presents a book that is part research material, part herbal compendium and part grimoire, and that makes it comprehensive and invaluable.
I'm now using it as a required-reading resource material for my students in our mystery school, and recommending it to fellow practitioners the world over.
April 2, 2022
'Poison is just another way of describing potency, and it is important to remember that what makes a plant poisonous is also what makes it medicinal.'
For me, this was one of the reasons for reading this book.
The other reason was my practical interest in the entheogenic, shamanic use of plants. As for this aspect, I was delighted by Coby Michael's respectful attitude to plants. E. g., when speaking about tobacco (he describes Aztec tobacco (Nicotiana rustica) in more detail), he says:
'It is a sacrament that has been turned into a commodity, and the spirit of tobacco has repaid its exploitation with addiction and health problems.'
He emphasizes the importance of treating the spirits of the plants with respect, of working with them from the position of a seeker, — never for mindless indulgence.
Coby is very knowledgeable (I've learnt about this book from a talk he gave at Treadwell's Books, and it was clear that he knows his plants very well), and this book is very well-researched: if, like me, you're fond of a good bibliography, you will approve of 'The Poison Path Herbal'!
So, this book is a description of a number of plants, not all of them poisonous, by the way. The author gives us very brief historical references; touches upon their planetary correspondences; considers the plants from the point of view of alchemy; describes their chemistry (both their chemical constituents and their effects). He goes into detail about their usage, traditional, medicinal, and magical; describes various preparations with them, gives recipes and dosages; and even describes how to plant them and care for them. In short, it's 'all you need to know about henbane, mandrake and other witchy plants'.
Practically speaking, for me, the chemical explanations of preparations have been very useful: I love plants, but I didn't exactly excel in chemistry at school, so it was great to have concise and clear explanations of how, for instance, to determine the amount of plant matter for tinctures, and things like that, — methods that apply not only to the plants covered in the book.
Of course, I've learnt a lot about the plants and their usage. I've performed a number of experiments and am now planning to try to obtain seeds for more experiments, and now I'm absolutely sure that I know what I'm doing.
So, many thanks to the author for sharing his knowledge.
For those interested, Coby Michael has a presence online and organizes a botanical conference called Botanica Obscura.
For me, this was one of the reasons for reading this book.
The other reason was my practical interest in the entheogenic, shamanic use of plants. As for this aspect, I was delighted by Coby Michael's respectful attitude to plants. E. g., when speaking about tobacco (he describes Aztec tobacco (Nicotiana rustica) in more detail), he says:
'It is a sacrament that has been turned into a commodity, and the spirit of tobacco has repaid its exploitation with addiction and health problems.'
He emphasizes the importance of treating the spirits of the plants with respect, of working with them from the position of a seeker, — never for mindless indulgence.
Coby is very knowledgeable (I've learnt about this book from a talk he gave at Treadwell's Books, and it was clear that he knows his plants very well), and this book is very well-researched: if, like me, you're fond of a good bibliography, you will approve of 'The Poison Path Herbal'!
So, this book is a description of a number of plants, not all of them poisonous, by the way. The author gives us very brief historical references; touches upon their planetary correspondences; considers the plants from the point of view of alchemy; describes their chemistry (both their chemical constituents and their effects). He goes into detail about their usage, traditional, medicinal, and magical; describes various preparations with them, gives recipes and dosages; and even describes how to plant them and care for them. In short, it's 'all you need to know about henbane, mandrake and other witchy plants'.
Practically speaking, for me, the chemical explanations of preparations have been very useful: I love plants, but I didn't exactly excel in chemistry at school, so it was great to have concise and clear explanations of how, for instance, to determine the amount of plant matter for tinctures, and things like that, — methods that apply not only to the plants covered in the book.
Of course, I've learnt a lot about the plants and their usage. I've performed a number of experiments and am now planning to try to obtain seeds for more experiments, and now I'm absolutely sure that I know what I'm doing.
So, many thanks to the author for sharing his knowledge.
For those interested, Coby Michael has a presence online and organizes a botanical conference called Botanica Obscura.
Read
October 28, 2021The Poison Path Herbal: Baneful Herbs, Medicinal Nightshades, and Ritual Entheogens
The Poison Path Herbal by Coby Michael is a collection of knowledge pertaining to certain plants---those whose chemical substances which may cause death, even in small doses. An aspiring herbalist, I can't claim to critically review books on magic or baneful plants. At the same time, Michael's presentation intrigued me. For who hasn't wanted to know why Hellebore is cast as Saturnian, while Datura, Venusian, in nature?
A widely-read author (perhaps scholar is more likely), accomplished in green pagan arts, science, history and mythology, Michael describes in detail the historical, cultural, and modern usages of these plants. The herbal section of the book is arranged in fascicles, one for each of the three ruling planets, Mercury, Venus, and Saturn. Prized in antiquity when Greek and Roman herbalists associated plants with their gods and goddesses, in modern times these plants are categorized in the various medical traditions by their affinity for parts of the human body and the mind. In other words, most plants are used today in medicine, in varying degrees, and for purposes that vary as well.
The author meticulously describes each “family” of plants, positing that each of the three ruling planets has characteristics that preside over the plants within its circle. For example, the power of Saturn is “dense” and offers “crystallization and containing effects”. Saturnian stamp and seal are presented for visualizing the planetary concept. As well, the Physical Characteristics, Medicinal Properties and Astrological Correspondences are listed, subtended by Alchemical Symbolism. These properties establish a broad overview of the plants. In all sections, leaves, flowers, roots and odor are defined in physical terms. And then, qualities of each planet are emphasized. For example, see the Venusian qualities of regeneration and care, which influence the heart, reproduction, and are tonic. In other words, the herbs of Saturn, Venus and Mercury are shown to belong to a hierarchy beyond the usual taxonomic one. I found the planetary influence to be especially compelling, where such description is supported by historical reference and allegory.
Belladonna and three of the Nightshades, Black, Eastern Black and Bittersweet are from the Deadly Nightshade Family. Three others, namely Hemlock, Hellebore, and Wormwood, also represent the Saturnian collection he’s chosen. Yet though these three have Saturnian traits---they “shield and protect, are about structure and foundation and are masculine in nature”---oddly they are the least deadly in terms of their poisonous qualities.
So, it appears that of the over 30 plants individually defined for their poisonous qualities, a few are not as deadly as to be called poisonous. These Michael calls “magic catalysts”---plants that harmonize or positively influence an intention. Herbs Aztec Tobacco and Myrrh are among the notable ones in this selection.
And yet the admonition remains: many plant constituents are indeed dangerous. Plants may be dangerous if you use them unaware or disrespectfully, and especially if maliciously. Their properties may be strictly off-limits for you because of a single existing condition or medication you are taking, or any number of conditions that would preclude the healthy use of these plants. The Poison Path Herbal informs readers and warns of potential risks and vulnerabilities.
An added bonus, Michael dedicates a section on Practice, or practical advice for those using the herbs. In it you’ll find instructions for preparing formulas, making extracts and infusions, etc., and recipes for incense and powders, even ink. As well, he gives instructions for tending seed and growing the plants which, by and large are wild and resistant to being cultivated.
An aspiring herbalist, I can't claim to know works on magic or baneful plants. Yet I appreciate the candor and inclusive approach in organizing and presenting this poison path herbal. Mostly, what impresses me is that a reader’s inquisitiveness about these plants is well served. Advice, historical precedent and mythos are generously and fairly applied and the writer appears to be deeply acquainted with the topic of magic and poisonous plants.
The Poison Path Herbal by Coby Michael is a collection of knowledge pertaining to certain plants---those whose chemical substances which may cause death, even in small doses. An aspiring herbalist, I can't claim to critically review books on magic or baneful plants. At the same time, Michael's presentation intrigued me. For who hasn't wanted to know why Hellebore is cast as Saturnian, while Datura, Venusian, in nature?
A widely-read author (perhaps scholar is more likely), accomplished in green pagan arts, science, history and mythology, Michael describes in detail the historical, cultural, and modern usages of these plants. The herbal section of the book is arranged in fascicles, one for each of the three ruling planets, Mercury, Venus, and Saturn. Prized in antiquity when Greek and Roman herbalists associated plants with their gods and goddesses, in modern times these plants are categorized in the various medical traditions by their affinity for parts of the human body and the mind. In other words, most plants are used today in medicine, in varying degrees, and for purposes that vary as well.
The author meticulously describes each “family” of plants, positing that each of the three ruling planets has characteristics that preside over the plants within its circle. For example, the power of Saturn is “dense” and offers “crystallization and containing effects”. Saturnian stamp and seal are presented for visualizing the planetary concept. As well, the Physical Characteristics, Medicinal Properties and Astrological Correspondences are listed, subtended by Alchemical Symbolism. These properties establish a broad overview of the plants. In all sections, leaves, flowers, roots and odor are defined in physical terms. And then, qualities of each planet are emphasized. For example, see the Venusian qualities of regeneration and care, which influence the heart, reproduction, and are tonic. In other words, the herbs of Saturn, Venus and Mercury are shown to belong to a hierarchy beyond the usual taxonomic one. I found the planetary influence to be especially compelling, where such description is supported by historical reference and allegory.
Belladonna and three of the Nightshades, Black, Eastern Black and Bittersweet are from the Deadly Nightshade Family. Three others, namely Hemlock, Hellebore, and Wormwood, also represent the Saturnian collection he’s chosen. Yet though these three have Saturnian traits---they “shield and protect, are about structure and foundation and are masculine in nature”---oddly they are the least deadly in terms of their poisonous qualities.
So, it appears that of the over 30 plants individually defined for their poisonous qualities, a few are not as deadly as to be called poisonous. These Michael calls “magic catalysts”---plants that harmonize or positively influence an intention. Herbs Aztec Tobacco and Myrrh are among the notable ones in this selection.
And yet the admonition remains: many plant constituents are indeed dangerous. Plants may be dangerous if you use them unaware or disrespectfully, and especially if maliciously. Their properties may be strictly off-limits for you because of a single existing condition or medication you are taking, or any number of conditions that would preclude the healthy use of these plants. The Poison Path Herbal informs readers and warns of potential risks and vulnerabilities.
An added bonus, Michael dedicates a section on Practice, or practical advice for those using the herbs. In it you’ll find instructions for preparing formulas, making extracts and infusions, etc., and recipes for incense and powders, even ink. As well, he gives instructions for tending seed and growing the plants which, by and large are wild and resistant to being cultivated.
An aspiring herbalist, I can't claim to know works on magic or baneful plants. Yet I appreciate the candor and inclusive approach in organizing and presenting this poison path herbal. Mostly, what impresses me is that a reader’s inquisitiveness about these plants is well served. Advice, historical precedent and mythos are generously and fairly applied and the writer appears to be deeply acquainted with the topic of magic and poisonous plants.
June 1, 2023
There are already some accurate, in-depth reviews here, so I’ll just quickly note my personal experience ~
I had the pleasure of talking with Coby at the 2022 Oddities & Curiosities Expo. During our conversation, I learned that Christopher Penczak was a big influence in his study of Plant Work just as he was for me. Coby kindly answered all my questions, then directed me to some plants to help me in my personal Practice.
I’m 18 years into my Craft now, and so far beyond the seemingly endless beginner books and guides flooding the market that it’s getting incredibly difficult to find anything that hasn’t been regurgitated hundreds of times in other sources.
Coby’s book is the far less traveled path — The Poison Path — that, as far as I can tell, a very select few have dared to publish. Finally, here’s someone willing to share their knowledge and exploration of a rarely discussed topic for the progress of all.
I had the pleasure of talking with Coby at the 2022 Oddities & Curiosities Expo. During our conversation, I learned that Christopher Penczak was a big influence in his study of Plant Work just as he was for me. Coby kindly answered all my questions, then directed me to some plants to help me in my personal Practice.
I’m 18 years into my Craft now, and so far beyond the seemingly endless beginner books and guides flooding the market that it’s getting incredibly difficult to find anything that hasn’t been regurgitated hundreds of times in other sources.
Coby’s book is the far less traveled path — The Poison Path — that, as far as I can tell, a very select few have dared to publish. Finally, here’s someone willing to share their knowledge and exploration of a rarely discussed topic for the progress of all.
April 5, 2022
There is a lot of great info here. My only criticism would be I wish there would have been more info re journeying with baneful plants.
May 1, 2024
A truly excellently researched book. This guy knows. his. STUFF.
January 7, 2022
This book was very informative and detailed. Provided specific information on different herbs, how to use them and specifically included recipes, which is hard to find in other books of this nature.
October 3, 2024
Pretty cool book with in-depth information about various poisonous plants, including historical, chemical, mythological and botanical lore. The included recipes and growing tips for the plants are great.
The plants are separated in three main categories: venusian, saturnian et moon plants - which is a rather arbitrary categorisation that I didn't personally vibe with, especially because it draws a lot from astrology and wicca, but it allows the author to build a conceptual framework and bring a bit of structure to the book. This framework also falls into one of my main pet peeves, which is to categorise each plant as "male" or "female" (male plants are of course "intellectual" and female plants tend to have a "seductive" nature) - to apply such concepts to the world of plants is a bit beyond me, as plants can teach us to think beyond our own cultural and biological limits.
A lot of new age concepts are included and not explained, being taken for granted (auras, third eyes, chakras, wicca etc..), which was off putting for me.
The plants are separated in three main categories: venusian, saturnian et moon plants - which is a rather arbitrary categorisation that I didn't personally vibe with, especially because it draws a lot from astrology and wicca, but it allows the author to build a conceptual framework and bring a bit of structure to the book. This framework also falls into one of my main pet peeves, which is to categorise each plant as "male" or "female" (male plants are of course "intellectual" and female plants tend to have a "seductive" nature) - to apply such concepts to the world of plants is a bit beyond me, as plants can teach us to think beyond our own cultural and biological limits.
A lot of new age concepts are included and not explained, being taken for granted (auras, third eyes, chakras, wicca etc..), which was off putting for me.
June 18, 2023
This is a wonderful reference for anyone curious about the poison path. Although this book focuses more on the western alchemical take for the most part (which honestly isn’t a bad thing. Even though I like to explore alchemical/mystical work that’s beyond western occultism, this book is very thorough), anyone can grasp the metaphysical and historical significance of the herbs discussed. I also appreciate the use of sigils and spells provided, but what I respected the most behind this book is addressing the SCIENCE, particularly chemistry and neurobiology, behind the historical and present use of the plants. From an alchemical sense, I think anyone planning on making tinctures, ointments, etc. should do even further research than what the book provides. Overall, this is so well done.
January 31, 2026
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June 5, 2022
A straightforward account of the medicinal and potentially poisonous entheogens, lacking the style and panache of Daniel Schulke's Veneficium but filling in necessary gaps with detailed instructions for making potions, salves, tinctures, and other concoctions. The book lacks clear organization and jumps around from the practical (botanical descriptions and recipes) to the theoretical (New Agey incantations and glyphs), yet adds to the alchemical library.
February 1, 2026
Baneful magick is an intriguing topic to me, but it is so hard to find a book that isnt just whimsy or full of fiction. This is where this book massively differs,
using science, mythology and historical facts, The Poison Path Herbal goes into depth about each baneful herb, its planetary associations and how to safely use each one.
Coby Michael
has
researched thoroughly
and you can tell how passionate he is about this lesser known
side of the
magickal craft. A must read for anyone interested in herbology,
even if you
never wish to use baneful magick.
I enjoyed this book so much I bought it on my kidle and as a physical copy.
using science, mythology and historical facts, The Poison Path Herbal goes into depth about each baneful herb, its planetary associations and how to safely use each one.
Coby Michael
has
researched thoroughly
and you can tell how passionate he is about this lesser known
side of the
magickal craft. A must read for anyone interested in herbology,
even if you
never wish to use baneful magick.
I enjoyed this book so much I bought it on my kidle and as a physical copy.
December 12, 2025
Another stellar book club pick!
What I enjoyed: I love that this book goes beyond the superficial lore of typical poison plants. You get a full exploration of history, magic and science into each one.
What I didn’t love: I do wish that care had been taken to warn against planting invasive species
Bottom line: I’d recommend this book!
What I enjoyed: I love that this book goes beyond the superficial lore of typical poison plants. You get a full exploration of history, magic and science into each one.
What I didn’t love: I do wish that care had been taken to warn against planting invasive species
Bottom line: I’d recommend this book!
April 26, 2023
Well written book to cut my Poison Path teeth on. Everything from lore to cultivation, you can see Coby Michael's passion for and knowledge of these herbs and their use. Looking forward to reading/learning more from Coby and more concerning this Poison Path.
March 23, 2025
I’ve been enjoying learning about poisonous plants lately. It’s just important knowledge when foraging, but it’s also interesting to know what people have used them for and I always love a bit of plant folklore.
October 20, 2025
3.5 stars
Lots of interesting information, but I noticed a few mistakes and oversights that make me doubt the book as a whole. Useful as part of a complete library, but it shouldn't be relied on as a single source (especially when working with dangerous plants).
Lots of interesting information, but I noticed a few mistakes and oversights that make me doubt the book as a whole. Useful as part of a complete library, but it shouldn't be relied on as a single source (especially when working with dangerous plants).
May 12, 2022
This was a very informative and educational book. From the phytochemistry to the spiritual aspects of the plants covered in this book. The author is well informed and genuinely loves his craft.
May 26, 2022
Absolutely fantastic.
April 12, 2023
I appreciate that this book contains an extensive biography, which makes me realize that the author has been careful to research and not pass on misinformation. I'm quite happy with how the topic was treated - that is, poisonous plants - because it's a delicate topic, also given the levity with which people often deal with it. Instead, the information is clear, also with regard to the risks. I found it a bit repetitive at times, but consistent.
January 29, 2024
Great overview over the history and uses of toxic plants in folklore and witchcraft. Brief explanations on how to grow them as well. Could have been a little bit more structured and detailed.
August 26, 2024
The sigils for each plant for spiritual workings is very useful
Read
January 9, 2026I received this book as a gift because I've always been interested in studying plants. It was a very nice read and I enjoyed it even if I must say that, to my surprise, the theory chapters regarding the planets caught my attention and now I think I'll move towards trying to learn something more about their myths.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews