Inside the Mandrake: Root of Screams, Salves, and Story
From Babylonian tablets to monastery gardens and witch-trial lore, mandrake sits where pharmacology and folklore cross paths—useful, dangerous, unforgettable.
Herbs & Healing
Explore the healing properties of herbs, traditional medicine, and natural remedies. Learn about the ancient wisdom of plant-based healing.
17 articles found
Artemisia (Wormwood): From Absinthe to Ancient Medicine
Inside the strange arc of Artemisia absinthium, from apothecary staple to the Green Fairy’s scapegoat, and what modern science and law actually say.
Ginseng: What It Is, How It Works, and How to Use It Without the Hype
From royal apothecaries to energy drinks to grandma’s soup pot, ginseng spans legend and lab. This long-form guide explains species, chemistry, evidence, safety, cooking, and smart supplementation without the hype.
Cardamom: Small Pods, Big Magic
Green for lift, black for depth: learn how to buy, store, and cook with cardamom, plus five quick ideas, troubleshooting, and FAQs.
Holy Basil (Tulsi): Calm Energy, Clearer Focus, and Everyday Rituals
From temples to teacups, tulsi has been trusted for centuries. Modern trials now support its role in easing stress, improving sleep, and gently supporting metabolic health. Here’s how to use it safely and practically.
Sage (Salvia officinalis): Uses, Benefits, and Easy Recipes
From medieval infirmaries to modern kitchens, sage earns its name, 'to save.' Here's how to buy it, brew it, cook it, and use it safely.
DIY Bath Salts: Custom Relaxation for Body and Mind
A simple, customizable bath-salts formula, plus mood-targeted blends, pro tips, and safety notes, for a calmer body and a clearer mind.
Iceland Moss: The Miracle of Nature
A practical, old-meets-new guide to Iceland moss, Europe's bushy lichen with a long track record in folk soothing blends and bitters.
Oregano: A Culinary Classic with Ancient Roots
From ancient symbol of joy to the flavor backbone of Mediterranean kitchens, oregano (Origanum vulgare) is a versatile herb with punchy aroma, practical uses, and a few easy recipes to prove it.
Maca Root: History, Effects, and Application
A clear guide to maca, its Andean roots, popular effects (energy, libido, mood), how to use it safely, and a simple smoothie you can make today.
The Magical Properties of Frankincense & Myrrh
From temple smoke to home altars, frankincense and myrrh are the classic twin resins for cleansing, focus, and contemplative work, here's how to use them well and safely.
Elixir of Life: A Superfood Smoothie Recipe
A bright, three-superfood smoothie, built on açaí, chia, and spirulina, with options for creamy, citrusy, or berry-forward tweaks, and clear guidance on swaps and storage.
Alchemical Coffee: Cinnamon and Cardamom Ritual
Tell the legend, honor the history, then brew with intention. Cinnamon, cardamom, one base method, three quick variations, and a practical cheat sheet.
The magic of Damiana
A grounded look at damiana's lore vs. evidence, with simple tea, cordial, and tincture methods, and the cautions to know before you sip.
Herbs and Their Uses in Alchemy
From planetary correspondences to the doctrine of signatures, here's how alchemists read, distilled, and burned herbs, and how you can apply those principles with respect and safety.
The fascinating world of essential oils: a guide for beginners
Start your home 'laboratory': learn what essential oils are, how to choose and store them, safety rules, and six easy beginner formulas.
The Art of Perfumery: A Journey Through History and Alchemy
A swift tour from Tapputi's temple stillroom to Grasse and modern labs, how we learned to bottle flowers, invent new smells, and wear them like invisible jewelry.