Herb - Lavender - 1 oz

Folk Names: Elf Leaf, Nard, Nardus, Spike

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Mercury

Element: Air

Powers: Love, Protection, Sleep, Chastity, Longevity, Purification, Happiness, Peace

Magical Uses: Lavender has long been used in love spells and sachets. Clothing nabbed with the fragrant flowers (or lavender placed in drawers with clothes) attracts love. A piece of paper on which you've rubbed lavender is excellent for writing love notes. The scent of lavender particularly attracts men, and lavender water or the essential oil was worn by prostitutes several centuries ago to both advertise their profession as well as to attract (through magic) customers. Lavender also protects against cruel treatment at the hands of a spouse if worn. These flowers are also burned or smouldered to induce sleep and rest, and are scattered about the home to maintain its peacefulness. The plant is so powerful that, if when depressed one gazes upon the plant, all sorrow will depart and a joyous feeling will settle upon the observer. Indeed, the odor of lavender is conducive to long life, and so should be smelled as often as possible if this is a concern. Lavender is also used in healing mixtures, carried to see ghosts, and worn to protect against the evil eye. It is added to purification baths. Despite lavender's love associations, in the Renaissance it was believed that lavender together with rosemary, if worn, would preserve a woman's chastity. A wish divination: Place lavender under your pillow while thinking of your wish. Do this just prior to retiring for the night. In the morning, if you have dreamt of anything relating to your wish, it will come true. However, if you did not have dreams, or if they were unconnected with your wish, it will not manifest. Lavindin is a type of lavender that was bred for its powerful scent. It is a particularly good choice for sachets and pillows.