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Wild Witchcraft: Folk Herbalism, Garden Magic, and Foraging for Spells, Rituals, and Remedies
Learn how to cultivate your own magical garden, harness the power of herbalism, and better connect with nature through practical and sustainable tips from an experienced Appalachian witch forager.
Witchcraft is wild at heart, calling us to commune with nature and find the magic all around us. Through the magic of plants, a witch—beginner or experienced—can enhance spells, remedies, and rituals for a deeper connection to the earth.
With Wild Witchcraft , Rebecca Beyer pulls on her years of experience as an Appalachian witch and forager to give you a practical guide to herbalism and natural magic that will
-The history of witchcraft and herbalism
-How to create and maintain your own green garden
-Recipes for tinctures, teas, essential oils, and other brews to use in spells and rituals
-Spells, remedies, and rituals with a holistic natural skew covering a range of topics, from self-healing to love to seasonal phase-oriented communion
-And much more!
Wild Witchcraft teaches the importance of a holistic, green witch practice while giving actionable tips and tools you need to enhance your craft in a powerful, responsible, and sustainable way.
Witchcraft is wild at heart, calling us to commune with nature and find the magic all around us. Through the magic of plants, a witch—beginner or experienced—can enhance spells, remedies, and rituals for a deeper connection to the earth.
With Wild Witchcraft , Rebecca Beyer pulls on her years of experience as an Appalachian witch and forager to give you a practical guide to herbalism and natural magic that will
-The history of witchcraft and herbalism
-How to create and maintain your own green garden
-Recipes for tinctures, teas, essential oils, and other brews to use in spells and rituals
-Spells, remedies, and rituals with a holistic natural skew covering a range of topics, from self-healing to love to seasonal phase-oriented communion
-And much more!
Wild Witchcraft teaches the importance of a holistic, green witch practice while giving actionable tips and tools you need to enhance your craft in a powerful, responsible, and sustainable way.
1 pages, Audio CD
Published May 10, 2022
539 people are currently reading
8645 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
January 3, 2022
A great book for beginners in that it touches on every aspect of herbalism from garden to forage to remedy making. I recommend to anyone who is just starting out and can only get 2 books, the second being a good field guide for identifying local plants.
Lost a star because the emphasis on Appalachian folk practice in summary and author background but lack of actual Appalachian folk practice in the book content felt like bait and switch. The actual herbalism was basic Western herbalism which was fine and well written but...after that lead up felt like a let down. Should have at least included Poke in the poison path after all the talk about Appalachia love.
Lost a star because the emphasis on Appalachian folk practice in summary and author background but lack of actual Appalachian folk practice in the book content felt like bait and switch. The actual herbalism was basic Western herbalism which was fine and well written but...after that lead up felt like a let down. Should have at least included Poke in the poison path after all the talk about Appalachia love.
January 7, 2022
Granted we aren’t far into 2022 at all, but this is the coolest book I have read this year so far, and I’m sure my feelings about that will remain for quite some time.
I will be buying this book ASAP for my collection and reference it frequently.
In Wild Witchcraft, Beyer weaves a deep love for nature and plants with history and makes it surprisingly entertaining! No textbook vibes here, at all. However, I learned so much and know I will likely learn more the next reading of this book.
My favorite section was about poisonous plants- don’t worry, there are plenty of warnings throughout this part.
I also appreciate that she put the levels where some of the herbs can grow, as I live in a tropical climate and many of the herbs I want to grow wouldn’t survive- so it helps to know what I can attempt to grow, and what I should avoid.
5/5, highly recommend to anyone interested in foraging, growing their own herbs and plants for medical/food purposes, and witchcraft in general.
I received an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
I will be buying this book ASAP for my collection and reference it frequently.
In Wild Witchcraft, Beyer weaves a deep love for nature and plants with history and makes it surprisingly entertaining! No textbook vibes here, at all. However, I learned so much and know I will likely learn more the next reading of this book.
My favorite section was about poisonous plants- don’t worry, there are plenty of warnings throughout this part.
I also appreciate that she put the levels where some of the herbs can grow, as I live in a tropical climate and many of the herbs I want to grow wouldn’t survive- so it helps to know what I can attempt to grow, and what I should avoid.
5/5, highly recommend to anyone interested in foraging, growing their own herbs and plants for medical/food purposes, and witchcraft in general.
I received an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
September 26, 2022
Loved it!
I loved this book so much! Easy to read & so much info! I can't wait to grow some of these herbs & try the spells.
I loved this book so much! Easy to read & so much info! I can't wait to grow some of these herbs & try the spells.
October 29, 2024
This was a super informative book. I like that I learned a lot while being told stories and the history of each plant. I listened to it on audiobook, but I feel like it is one that I now need to own so I can always have the information at hand.
August 14, 2023
Opening to a whooping 6 paged introduction outlining her life story and lauding her alleged achievements, attempting to establish herself as credible and morally palatable to her target audience is unsurprisingly exasperating.
Furthered by her opening sentence of "In an age of epic consumption and ecologic destruction...etc." A unique statement from Beyer, considering I am very certain, is in possession of a sizeable "healing crystal" collection. Getting into how the popularization of witchcraft and spiritualism catapulted the mining industries to record profits and work exploitation as well as environmental desolation in certain areas is a discussion for another time.
I'd hoped this book would yield some marginally interesting facets and perspectives into Appalachian practices and mythologies. However this book merely seems to be the dictation of a under qualified, whimsical individual lacking in most forms of practicality and commonsense.
Proclaiming herself a "Professional Forager Witch", I'd rather not get into how the use of such a title attempts to institutionalize the witchcraft practice which is intrinsically, beyond institution. Marking redundant the recognition of the witch as an element differential to what may be recognized as common society or culture. In literature terms, the witch is the hermit or the outcast in opposition to such societies. A familiar and comforting figure to those whose identities and beliefs are not widely held by the society or culture in which we occupy.
I am overwhelmed by curiosity in regards to what qualifications Beyer believes garners such a vague, untested and inane title. As Beyer claims to be of modern witchcraft practices, she holds a distinct and condescending pride in her morbid fantasies of her alleged Irish, German and English "ancestral line" of witches enduring the witch trials and social prosecution of their time.
With an abandoned Medieval History study, a Organic Agriculture Degree from the University of Vermont and a MA in Appalachian Studies focusing on Ethnobotany from the Appalacian State University. I see very little merit and hold even less trust in regards to Beyer Ecological sciences and medical advice offered in the form of "Herbalism" she claims is unique to the Appalachian region.
At no point does this book offer a disclaimer in regards to the practice of Herbalism, noting the abundant and very real dangers in malpractice. Beyer personal Mono experience feeds into an already insidious notion that Herbalism is the secret cure all and modern medical practice is to be rejected.
An absolutely negligent and reprehensible narrative to proclaim especially in the Appalachian society and culture that was historically isolated by the mountainous region and had very little access to modern medical practices before the implementation of railways and roads.
I fully expect Beyers may face legal ramifications without this disclaimer should an naive reader injury themselves, others or be subject to worse outcome from following her ill informed publications.
Of which Beyers should be considered a hazard to society dictating "Herbalism" with no formal medical training or certification beyond her claims of informal training at her "Eco-Anarchist Enclave" among all the other abject places she happened to alight.
Adding the term shill to the list as well, seeing her "Witchcraft teaching" is little more than common knowledge in the Appalachian regions and easily accessible via google search. As well as an application of her personal values of the craft, utterly disregarding the notion that her practice of the craft is not the be all end all. Also of note, anyone who uses the term "Baby Witch" is rife with condescension for anyone whose practice does not directly align with their own.
I had hoped this book would offer a minor study of Appalachian culture and practices, however the only academic pleasure I've derived from this work is the critical thinking and reading comprehension expressed in analyzing Beyer woefully obvious tepid and lacking work.
I am genuinely surprised the Appalachian State University did not reconsiders their educational standards on review of Beyer publications.
Save your money and search for another book written by an author invested in academic value rather than Beyer liberal leaning socio-economic focused dog whistling. Its abundantly apparent Beyer prefers to earn social clout rather than contribute anything of merit to this academic sphere.
Since Saro Lynch felt so strongly and GoodReads is being fussy;
My claims are accurate and if you felt so strongly on the topic matter you'd be better off writing a 5 star review rather than taking issue with a 1 star review I found to be remarkably well earned. If you believe all poor reviews stem from an "ax to grind" or "personal unhappiness" it would be wiser to reevaluate your perspective rather than continue the fantasy that all unfavorable opinions in your whole hearted belief are just "unhappy people".
I'd also suggest you refrain from lunging to your author friends defense every time someone, well within their rights and clear observations, disagrees and finds obvious error in her work.
If you want to play keyboard arguement tag, reddit is a far more suited venue with more active participants than GoodReads. I do wish you and your author friend the best and good luck researching and publishing accurate and objective information in future works your no doubt to inflict on society
Furthered by her opening sentence of "In an age of epic consumption and ecologic destruction...etc." A unique statement from Beyer, considering I am very certain, is in possession of a sizeable "healing crystal" collection. Getting into how the popularization of witchcraft and spiritualism catapulted the mining industries to record profits and work exploitation as well as environmental desolation in certain areas is a discussion for another time.
I'd hoped this book would yield some marginally interesting facets and perspectives into Appalachian practices and mythologies. However this book merely seems to be the dictation of a under qualified, whimsical individual lacking in most forms of practicality and commonsense.
Proclaiming herself a "Professional Forager Witch", I'd rather not get into how the use of such a title attempts to institutionalize the witchcraft practice which is intrinsically, beyond institution. Marking redundant the recognition of the witch as an element differential to what may be recognized as common society or culture. In literature terms, the witch is the hermit or the outcast in opposition to such societies. A familiar and comforting figure to those whose identities and beliefs are not widely held by the society or culture in which we occupy.
I am overwhelmed by curiosity in regards to what qualifications Beyer believes garners such a vague, untested and inane title. As Beyer claims to be of modern witchcraft practices, she holds a distinct and condescending pride in her morbid fantasies of her alleged Irish, German and English "ancestral line" of witches enduring the witch trials and social prosecution of their time.
With an abandoned Medieval History study, a Organic Agriculture Degree from the University of Vermont and a MA in Appalachian Studies focusing on Ethnobotany from the Appalacian State University. I see very little merit and hold even less trust in regards to Beyer Ecological sciences and medical advice offered in the form of "Herbalism" she claims is unique to the Appalachian region.
At no point does this book offer a disclaimer in regards to the practice of Herbalism, noting the abundant and very real dangers in malpractice. Beyer personal Mono experience feeds into an already insidious notion that Herbalism is the secret cure all and modern medical practice is to be rejected.
An absolutely negligent and reprehensible narrative to proclaim especially in the Appalachian society and culture that was historically isolated by the mountainous region and had very little access to modern medical practices before the implementation of railways and roads.
I fully expect Beyers may face legal ramifications without this disclaimer should an naive reader injury themselves, others or be subject to worse outcome from following her ill informed publications.
Of which Beyers should be considered a hazard to society dictating "Herbalism" with no formal medical training or certification beyond her claims of informal training at her "Eco-Anarchist Enclave" among all the other abject places she happened to alight.
Adding the term shill to the list as well, seeing her "Witchcraft teaching" is little more than common knowledge in the Appalachian regions and easily accessible via google search. As well as an application of her personal values of the craft, utterly disregarding the notion that her practice of the craft is not the be all end all. Also of note, anyone who uses the term "Baby Witch" is rife with condescension for anyone whose practice does not directly align with their own.
I had hoped this book would offer a minor study of Appalachian culture and practices, however the only academic pleasure I've derived from this work is the critical thinking and reading comprehension expressed in analyzing Beyer woefully obvious tepid and lacking work.
I am genuinely surprised the Appalachian State University did not reconsiders their educational standards on review of Beyer publications.
Save your money and search for another book written by an author invested in academic value rather than Beyer liberal leaning socio-economic focused dog whistling. Its abundantly apparent Beyer prefers to earn social clout rather than contribute anything of merit to this academic sphere.
Since Saro Lynch felt so strongly and GoodReads is being fussy;
My claims are accurate and if you felt so strongly on the topic matter you'd be better off writing a 5 star review rather than taking issue with a 1 star review I found to be remarkably well earned. If you believe all poor reviews stem from an "ax to grind" or "personal unhappiness" it would be wiser to reevaluate your perspective rather than continue the fantasy that all unfavorable opinions in your whole hearted belief are just "unhappy people".
I'd also suggest you refrain from lunging to your author friends defense every time someone, well within their rights and clear observations, disagrees and finds obvious error in her work.
If you want to play keyboard arguement tag, reddit is a far more suited venue with more active participants than GoodReads. I do wish you and your author friend the best and good luck researching and publishing accurate and objective information in future works your no doubt to inflict on society
January 9, 2022
I absolutely love when I can sit down and finish something this interesting in one sitting. This book is excellent for beginners and practitioners alike. I feel like everyone can get something out of this. This is also a wonderful collection you can return to as you set up your practice, grow, and cultivate your plants.
The poisonous plants section was perhaps my favorite because it was a lot of fun! I feel, however, that could probably be it’s own book if the author had wanted. It probably is best to address plants to never go near, but it felt like it could have successfully been another companionship guide.
I loved the format of this book. I loved how easily the author flowed into each topic: addressing the history of witchcraft and witches, addressing how to begin preparing for plant growth and harvesting, putting everything into practice during the wheel of the year, etc.
What I loved most of all was how the author provided all the practical uses for each plant and herb and also addressed their histories. The author was extremely knowledgeable and I loved learning about incorporating natural elements and plants into practice.
This was so lovely and comprehensive. I would have loved to see illustrations as well! I do not know if that will be the intent once published, but it would have made a lovely touch.
Many thanks to Simon Element and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced e-reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review. My review is also available on Goodreads and will be mentioned via Instagram @ivy.haunts
The poisonous plants section was perhaps my favorite because it was a lot of fun! I feel, however, that could probably be it’s own book if the author had wanted. It probably is best to address plants to never go near, but it felt like it could have successfully been another companionship guide.
I loved the format of this book. I loved how easily the author flowed into each topic: addressing the history of witchcraft and witches, addressing how to begin preparing for plant growth and harvesting, putting everything into practice during the wheel of the year, etc.
What I loved most of all was how the author provided all the practical uses for each plant and herb and also addressed their histories. The author was extremely knowledgeable and I loved learning about incorporating natural elements and plants into practice.
This was so lovely and comprehensive. I would have loved to see illustrations as well! I do not know if that will be the intent once published, but it would have made a lovely touch.
Many thanks to Simon Element and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced e-reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review. My review is also available on Goodreads and will be mentioned via Instagram @ivy.haunts
September 20, 2022
Slight but very enjoyable book on harvesting and utilizing plants for herbalism and magic. There's a lot of fun trivia in here, and the design is very appealing. It's not super in-depth, but a good launching point for those getting more serious about the topic.
Read
May 9, 2023This is a DNF for now. I think the concept of this book sounded so cool, (plus the cover is gorgeous!) but it isn’t really resonating with me right now sadly. It’s definitely very informative from what I did read but I’m not connecting with the text very well right now.
April 5, 2023
A brief history of witches and Wiccan trade, it segues into creating and maintaining a “magical garden” filled with herbs and plants to heal (or…) then into actual uses. Using the seasons as a guide, there are salves, tinctures, teas, and a nice selection of more. Foraging tips and rituals. Nice addition.
May 10, 2022
This is an absolutely lovely book. It's a great book for those newer to witchcraft and those who have been practicing for awhile. There are other books which could provide a deeper dive into the subject matter, but this book delivers a thorough overview of the different aspects of witchcraft in its modern applications that stem from the history of witchcraft.
Wild Witchcraft is easy to read because the author makes the content interesting and educational. It would be a fine addition to anyone interested in history, herbalism, witchcraft, or nature.
Wild Witchcraft is a future purchase for me to add to my physical herbal library. I was fortunate to read Wild Witchcraft as a free digital ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Sometimes I read a book for a review, and I know while reading it that it should become a part of my library. I am so pleased when this happens because it's great to support authors who are doing good work. I can't wait for this resource to arrive in my mail today!
Wild Witchcraft is easy to read because the author makes the content interesting and educational. It would be a fine addition to anyone interested in history, herbalism, witchcraft, or nature.
Wild Witchcraft is a future purchase for me to add to my physical herbal library. I was fortunate to read Wild Witchcraft as a free digital ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Sometimes I read a book for a review, and I know while reading it that it should become a part of my library. I am so pleased when this happens because it's great to support authors who are doing good work. I can't wait for this resource to arrive in my mail today!
February 21, 2024
Reading many fictional books lately with witchy characters and magical themes, so as curiosity would have it decided to educate myself on real life witch activities. Getting the impression modern witches are very much environmentalists and herbalists, who embrace living off the land.
November 10, 2022
Great book about using plants for good health. I enjoyed that this book includes a lot of history and folklore about the plants.
My one criticism would be that I would like to see stronger warnings about skipping medical care. Though the book does have a disclaimer at the start.
My one criticism would be that I would like to see stronger warnings about skipping medical care. Though the book does have a disclaimer at the start.
October 22, 2022
This book is a very good first reference for " baby witches" just starting out learning herbal work. Especially during this day and age where "everyone" wants to be a witch, "Google witches" unite. Lol. No for real I would recommend this book for a good and accurate reference for herbs.
June 12, 2022
I appreciate that this book repeatedly denounced appropriation and gave respect to Indigenous cultures in colonized lands.
March 28, 2024
I need this as a physical copy to add to my personal library!
Such great information and she's super respectful. The author practically demands you to do the same the way she repeats her words of caution. I am no gardener but I still found the suggestions and information on how to plant and such super interesting!
All the parts of folklore and history spoke to my soul. Some things I already knew, but there was much that I sat there and went "Wow, I did not know that!"
The one thing about this book might take issue for some is that it focuses on North America, particularly the area around the Appalachian mountains. If you live in other areas or countries, this wouldn't be the best reference book when it comes to certain plants and herbs. In some regards, even I would not find some of these plants out in the wild of North Texas because the climate is too arid or hot, and the soil too sandy.
I still loved this book and want it though!
Such great information and she's super respectful. The author practically demands you to do the same the way she repeats her words of caution. I am no gardener but I still found the suggestions and information on how to plant and such super interesting!
All the parts of folklore and history spoke to my soul. Some things I already knew, but there was much that I sat there and went "Wow, I did not know that!"
The one thing about this book might take issue for some is that it focuses on North America, particularly the area around the Appalachian mountains. If you live in other areas or countries, this wouldn't be the best reference book when it comes to certain plants and herbs. In some regards, even I would not find some of these plants out in the wild of North Texas because the climate is too arid or hot, and the soil too sandy.
I still loved this book and want it though!
July 2, 2022
This book is absolutely recommended to the pagan who wants to connect to the land and feel like they're aligned with the world around them. Beyer does a beautiful job of talking about her own journey, getting us started with some of the basics of foraging and using basic herbs and spells while underlining the importance of both personal connection to our own place and ancestors and respect for cultural traditions of BIPOC practices and awareness of the cost of colonization. I'll be looking forward to more books from her in the future!
July 7, 2023
this was so good as a newbie boobie nature girly who wants to learn how to live more in tune with the earth. the author is so knowledgeable while also honoring the BIPOC and indigenous folks who paved the way for where we are today. i will say, this is def better as a physical book than an audiobook though!
August 9, 2023
"All I know is that I want all humans to feel at home in nature once more. I dream of the boundaries that keep us in and the wild out dissolving away."
Amei esse livro. Queria uma outra leitura falando mais da vida e das experiências da autora. Ela parece ter tanto para compartilhar. O melhor livro introdutório sobre bruxaria que li até agora.
Amei esse livro. Queria uma outra leitura falando mais da vida e das experiências da autora. Ela parece ter tanto para compartilhar. O melhor livro introdutório sobre bruxaria que li até agora.
September 29, 2023
While I am not a witch and have no desire to become one in a strict sense, I do have an interest in the benefits of plants and our relationship to nature, especially through the wheel of the year. This book had so much information while also being a fun, simple read, and I’ll definitely be attempting to grow some of my own herbs this coming year.
August 7, 2022
It’s historical, honest, and so much information. The info is digestible but still a lot of brilliant info and respectful to BIPOC.
September 9, 2022
3.5 stars
January 3, 2023
My new Bible
November 21, 2023
I think this is an excellent reference book, less of a book to read for narrative enjoyment but super handy especially if you have a physical copy!
February 2, 2024
This is a good book to have on hand if you want to do foraging and herbal things. I appreciated that the author spoke about Indigenous People and cultural appropriation when it comes to this kind of stuff. Good handbook of herbs.
March 26, 2024
A gardening book mixed with history of witches and folklore of plants *chefs kiss*
May 2, 2024
Full of information and gorgeous illustrations. This a good one to refer to when looking for specific information rather than to read cover to cover.
January 22, 2025
Great read for the beginner trying to morph nature and purpose.
July 19, 2025
Very informative! I bought a hard cover.
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December 14, 2025A bit too advanced for me, but really appreciated all of the tips and acknowledgement of BIPOC contributions to it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews