Luibh and Seoid

Garnet

          The name of the stone comes from the Latin granatus, possibly in reference to the gram malum garanatom (pomegranate), a plant with red seeds similar in shape, size and color to some garnet crystals. It can come in a variety of colors including purple, orange, yellow, green, brown, black or colorless, and was popular in jewelry designs of the Victorian era.

          It was long known as “the warriors stone” as soldiers from around the world wore or carried it as a talisman against death and injury, as well as to enhance bodily strength, endurance and vigor. Knights and warriors decorated their shields and weapons with garnets. In Hinduism and Buddhism it is seen as a holy stone that enlightens the soul and gives wisdom.

          Garnet is used to enhance sensuality, sexuality, and intimacy and is said to balance the sex drive and aid in sexual potency and fertility. It inspires commitment and a monogamous and stable marriage.

          Because of its warming energies, it is used therapeutically for aching muscles, arthritis and other join discomforts. It protects from toxins and helps ward off infections. It also alleviates emotional disharmony, brings calm and removes inhibitions, taboos, anger and discord. However it is a very powerful and dominant stone, not suitable for over-active, stressed or quick tempered people – wearing one might lead to aggression.

          When given as a gift, the stone is said to grant loyalty and affection. It holds not only the power to protect from negative energies but to send those energies back to where they came from.

          Placed under a pillow it is said to prevent bad dreams.

Mugwort

          A close relative of wormwood, Artemisia vulgaris or mugwort, is a faintly aromatic herb with spear shaped leaves and small, greenish flowers that blooms form Summer through to Autumn.

          It has a long history of folk tradition and use:

·         Anglo-saxon tribes believed that it was one of the nine sacred herbs given to the world by the god Woden.

·         Used as a flavoring additive to beer before hops

·         Romans planted it by roadsides to protect road-weary travelers against exhaustion

Carried, this herb brings loved ones safely home from journey and hung over or on a door, it keeps unwelcome energies from passing through.

          Mugwort dispels nightmares and calms sleeplessness by taking it as a tea or smoked before bed. The branches can also be hung near the bed or crushed and put in a satchel or pillow. It produces visionary dreams and is a prime ingredient in dream pillows.

          When added to healing baths, it can be used to ease discomfort from eczema, gout and arthritis. It stimulates appetite due to the presence of bitter compounds, promotes good digestion and reduces fevers. However, due to its ability to induce labor, this herb should not be used while pregnant.