WEBVTT 1 00:00:03.720 --> 00:00:24.920 Somethings going to happen, What's going to happen? What? Herbalism 2 00:00:25.000 --> 00:00:30.320 and ritual magic have long intertwined with practitioners of witchcraft, emeticism, wicca, 3 00:00:30.640 --> 00:00:34.960 and folk traditions attributing spiritual virtues to plants. Herbs are 4 00:00:34.960 --> 00:00:41.159 classified by correspondences, symbolic associations like gender, masculine and feminine, rolling, planet, 5 00:00:41.320 --> 00:00:44.439 element and patron deities, which guide their use in spells 6 00:00:44.439 --> 00:00:49.200 and rituals. Often these correspondences mirror the herbs precede effects. 7 00:00:49.920 --> 00:00:52.960 For example, a fiery mars ruled herb used to rouse 8 00:00:53.000 --> 00:00:58.039 courage might also contain physiologically warming or stimulating compounds. This 9 00:00:58.079 --> 00:01:02.719 episode explores eleven herbs famed in ritual practices devil, shoestring, 10 00:01:02.960 --> 00:01:11.079 eyebright solomon, seal, rue, witch, hazel, gandeline, basil, cinnamon, oris, root, hathorn, 11 00:01:11.400 --> 00:01:16.319 and eucalyptus, examining both their traditional magical uses and scientific 12 00:01:16.359 --> 00:01:20.640 insights into their effects on the human nervous system. Special 13 00:01:20.640 --> 00:01:23.200 attention is given to how each plant might influence to 14 00:01:23.239 --> 00:01:26.840 cranial nerves, especially the vagus nerve, the primary conduit of 15 00:01:26.879 --> 00:01:32.200 parasympathetic calm and neurochemistry. Like interactions with neurotransmitters like gabba 16 00:01:32.480 --> 00:01:36.480 or acetacoline. By bridging law with laboratory findings, we can 17 00:01:36.519 --> 00:01:39.640 appreciate how these herbs not only serve symbolically in ritual, 18 00:01:39.680 --> 00:01:44.359 but also tangibly affect mind and body, offering sedative calm, 19 00:01:44.519 --> 00:01:49.159 stimulating clarity, or other neuromodulatory actions. The aim is an 20 00:01:49.200 --> 00:01:53.760 evidence based exploration suitable for both academic inquiry and the 21 00:01:53.799 --> 00:01:57.000 practitioner seeking deeper understanding of the herbs that link spirit 22 00:01:57.280 --> 00:02:04.120 and nervous system up devil shoestring folk name devil shoestring, 23 00:02:04.400 --> 00:02:09.159 Joshua's beads gender is masculine, associated with the planet Mars, 24 00:02:09.439 --> 00:02:13.400 sometimes attributed to Satin or Jupiter in different traditions. Also 25 00:02:13.439 --> 00:02:17.159 associated with the element of fire occasionally earth water in 26 00:02:17.199 --> 00:02:22.840 Hoodu contexts not commonly linked to major deities. Some sources 27 00:02:22.919 --> 00:02:25.560 named Veritas the Roman goddess of truth due to its 28 00:02:25.599 --> 00:02:30.240 truth uncovering use, though this association is obscure. More often 29 00:02:30.280 --> 00:02:32.840 it is tied to generic spirits of protection in African 30 00:02:32.840 --> 00:02:37.840 American folk magic in appellation in Hudoo folk magic, devil shoestring, 31 00:02:38.000 --> 00:02:41.919 the root of certain Verburnum species, is a powerful protective charm. 32 00:02:42.599 --> 00:02:45.319 Its name comes from the belief that scattered roots trip 33 00:02:45.400 --> 00:02:49.800 up the devil, entangling evil influences. Traditionally, pieces of the 34 00:02:49.879 --> 00:02:52.400 root are strung together and hung above doorways, are carried 35 00:02:52.400 --> 00:02:56.639 in mojo bags to ward orf curses, hexes, and malicious spirits. 36 00:02:57.520 --> 00:03:01.120 It is a classic ingredient for uncrossing curses and for 37 00:03:01.199 --> 00:03:04.479 gambling luck. Gamblers steep the roots in whiskey or cologne, 38 00:03:04.599 --> 00:03:06.560 then rub the scent and liquid on their hands for 39 00:03:06.639 --> 00:03:10.960 money or success. In Hoodo law, tying nine devil shoe 40 00:03:10.960 --> 00:03:14.039 strings around the ankles protects one from enemy tricks and 41 00:03:14.120 --> 00:03:17.840 breaks spells laid with foot track magic. Because of its 42 00:03:17.879 --> 00:03:21.000 reputed power to bind evil, it finds use in banishing 43 00:03:21.039 --> 00:03:25.719 and protection rituals across various folk traditions. Cunningham notes it 44 00:03:25.719 --> 00:03:28.000 can also be carried for general good luck and to 45 00:03:28.120 --> 00:03:32.960 attract employment. In witchcraft correspondences, it is considered a root 46 00:03:33.000 --> 00:03:37.159 of power, protection, luck, courage, and strength, aligned with Mars 47 00:03:37.199 --> 00:03:39.800 in the element of fire to reflect its aggressive defense 48 00:03:40.000 --> 00:03:46.159 against negativity. Devil shoe string or black how contains compounds 49 00:03:46.159 --> 00:03:48.960 with notable effects on smooth muscle and the nervous system. 50 00:03:49.560 --> 00:03:53.120 Herbal medicine has long used black haw as an anti spasmodic, 51 00:03:53.800 --> 00:03:57.639 particularly to prevent uterine cramps and calm gastro intestinal or 52 00:03:57.680 --> 00:04:03.000 bronchial spasms. Pharmacological studies confirmed that Viburnum species relax smooth muscle, 53 00:04:03.360 --> 00:04:06.520 likely via direct action on muscle fibers and possibly central 54 00:04:06.560 --> 00:04:10.520 nervous system sedation. In the nineteenth century, black hor was 55 00:04:10.560 --> 00:04:15.199 even recommended for nervous disorders like hysteria, chorea, and mild 56 00:04:15.199 --> 00:04:19.959 epileptic states. An animal experiment showed Viburnum extract to press 57 00:04:19.959 --> 00:04:24.199 his spinal reflexes and motor activity, suggesting a central sedating effect. 58 00:04:24.800 --> 00:04:27.680 The active principle for burning is thought to contribute to 59 00:04:27.759 --> 00:04:32.079 muscle relaxation and dampering of nerve excitability, which aligns with 60 00:04:32.120 --> 00:04:35.079 the roots folk used to tie down or restrain evil, 61 00:04:35.480 --> 00:04:41.720 metaphorically paralleling its physiological ability to restrain overactive nerves or spasms. Thus, 62 00:04:41.839 --> 00:04:46.319 devil shoestring may support the parasympathetic response by reducing cramps 63 00:04:46.360 --> 00:04:49.839 and calming the body. It could indirectly enhance vagal tone, 64 00:04:50.000 --> 00:04:53.120 since relief from visceral pain and tension engages the vaguest 65 00:04:53.199 --> 00:04:57.959 driven relaxation response. The ethnobotanical record of viburnum backs its 66 00:04:58.040 --> 00:05:01.519 role as a nerve ne relaxing. In summary, the root 67 00:05:01.600 --> 00:05:05.240 carried to protect one from spiritual threats, also contains chemistry 68 00:05:05.240 --> 00:05:09.759 that physically protects against overstimulation, soothing muscle contractions and possibly 69 00:05:09.839 --> 00:05:13.240 quieting an over excited nervous system. A striking case of 70 00:05:13.279 --> 00:05:18.399 an herb's material and mystical reputation aligning. And Next we 71 00:05:18.519 --> 00:05:22.199 have ibright folk name Euphrosine, after the Greek grace of 72 00:05:22.279 --> 00:05:27.079 joy eyweed or gentrost, German eye comfort, and meadow eybrite 73 00:05:28.120 --> 00:05:31.519 gender is masculine, associated with the planet's sun and the 74 00:05:31.600 --> 00:05:36.439 element of air associated deities. No specific patron deity is 75 00:05:36.519 --> 00:05:39.920 universally cited, but its solo rulership sometimes connects it to 76 00:05:39.959 --> 00:05:43.000 sun gods for illumination, and the name ties it to 77 00:05:43.040 --> 00:05:45.639 a minor goddess of mirth. We might also see it 78 00:05:45.680 --> 00:05:48.920 as under the purview of Apollo, a sun aligned deity 79 00:05:48.920 --> 00:05:53.079 of healing and prophecy, given its clamvoyant uses. The genius 80 00:05:53.120 --> 00:05:56.680 name Euphrasia comes from Euphrosine, one of the three graces 81 00:05:56.680 --> 00:06:00.000 of Greek myth symbolizing joy, linking the plant to gladness 82 00:06:00.160 --> 00:06:04.639 and clear vision, as it implies. Ibright has a venerable 83 00:06:04.680 --> 00:06:08.920 reputation in European folk magic for enhancing clairvoyance, inner sight, 84 00:06:09.160 --> 00:06:12.920 and memory. In the Elizabethan era, it was brewed into 85 00:06:12.920 --> 00:06:15.920 ales and wines to make the spirit cheerful and sharpen 86 00:06:15.959 --> 00:06:19.560 the mind's eye. Applied as an infusion to the eyelids, 87 00:06:19.680 --> 00:06:22.360 it was said to induce second sight, allowing one to 88 00:06:22.360 --> 00:06:26.480 perceive hidden, fay or future visions, which as could dab 89 00:06:26.519 --> 00:06:29.240 their eyes with ibrit Ta adorned to see through glamour 90 00:06:29.399 --> 00:06:32.040 and deception during the day or at night to prompt 91 00:06:32.040 --> 00:06:36.399 prophetic dreams. It figuratively clears the eyes of the soul, 92 00:06:36.720 --> 00:06:39.879 helping one see reality or see the positive in a situation. 93 00:06:40.879 --> 00:06:43.560 It is a favorite herb for divination. A pinch in 94 00:06:43.560 --> 00:06:47.000 a scrying mirror or crystal water supposedly enhances the clarity 95 00:06:47.000 --> 00:06:51.480 of visions. In folk practice, carrying ibrite with rosemary or 96 00:06:51.480 --> 00:06:55.000 peppermint was thought to improve memory and help find lost objects. 97 00:06:55.680 --> 00:06:59.639 The herb's long association with vision, physical and metaphysical, and 98 00:06:59.720 --> 00:07:03.839 joy as euphrocity made it a symbol of clear sided optimism. 99 00:07:04.560 --> 00:07:07.399 Burning ibrite as a ritual incense lifts the mood and 100 00:07:07.519 --> 00:07:11.079 is said to invite joyful spirits and fairies, consistent with 101 00:07:11.160 --> 00:07:14.040 its name meaning joy and its history of bringing gladness 102 00:07:14.040 --> 00:07:17.600 and joy to human eyes. Ibright's renown effects on the 103 00:07:17.600 --> 00:07:21.240 eyes come from its astringent and anti inflammatory constituents such 104 00:07:21.319 --> 00:07:26.279 as iridoid glycosides and flavonoids, which reduce redness and secretions 105 00:07:26.279 --> 00:07:32.279 in conjunctivitis, biphysically clearing vision, reducing eye irritation, and metaphorically 106 00:07:32.319 --> 00:07:36.759 earned a reputation for clearing mental vision as well. Scientifically, 107 00:07:37.000 --> 00:07:40.639 ibrite is an anti inflammatory for mucous membranes. Studies show 108 00:07:40.639 --> 00:07:44.199 it can soothe conjunctival inflammation and may help dry irritated 109 00:07:44.240 --> 00:07:48.560 eyes by modulating cytokines. While direct effects on crinial nerves 110 00:07:48.560 --> 00:07:51.639 are not well studied, Ibright's impact on the ophthalmic branch 111 00:07:51.680 --> 00:07:55.240 of the trigeminal nerve, which senses eye irritation, is notable. 112 00:07:55.600 --> 00:07:58.839 It reduces the sensory feedback of irritation, which in turn 113 00:07:58.920 --> 00:08:02.519 calms reflex neural pathways that respond to eyestrain. There is 114 00:08:02.560 --> 00:08:06.480 also a mild neotropic folk claim by alleviating eye fatigue, 115 00:08:06.759 --> 00:08:11.120 eyebright might indirectly improve cognitive focus, since i discomfort can 116 00:08:11.199 --> 00:08:15.639 strain the mind. Historically, Nicholas Culpepper in sixteen fifty three 117 00:08:15.879 --> 00:08:18.720 assigned ibright to the zodiac sign Leo and the Sun, 118 00:08:19.120 --> 00:08:23.720 suggesting it cheers the spirit. Modern herbalists sometimes brew eyebrite 119 00:08:23.720 --> 00:08:26.439 tea as a gentle stimula from mental clarity, though this 120 00:08:26.560 --> 00:08:30.480 is more tradition than laboratory proven The herb contains tannins that, 121 00:08:30.639 --> 00:08:33.559 when ingested, have a slight drying effect and may reduce 122 00:08:33.720 --> 00:08:37.879 nasal congestion, potentially aiding clear breathing and thus oxygenation of 123 00:08:37.919 --> 00:08:43.360 the brain. Euphrasia species haven't shown strong direct neurotransmitter activity 124 00:08:43.360 --> 00:08:46.840 in the literature. However, their anti inflammatory action could benefit 125 00:08:46.879 --> 00:08:51.399 the nervous system by reducing inflammatory stress signals. In summary, 126 00:08:51.679 --> 00:08:55.000 ibright's influence of the nervous system is peripheral but significant. 127 00:08:55.440 --> 00:08:58.480 By literally easing eyes and sinus discomfort, it can trigger 128 00:08:58.480 --> 00:09:02.120 a cascade of relief. The vagus nerve often responds to 129 00:09:02.159 --> 00:09:04.879 reduction in pain and inflammation with a shift towards paras 130 00:09:04.919 --> 00:09:08.440 empathetic tone. This may be why eyebright folklore links to 131 00:09:08.480 --> 00:09:11.919 an uplifted clear mind. It illuminates by removing both the 132 00:09:11.919 --> 00:09:15.720 physical and metaphorical irritants that cloud vision, aligning well with 133 00:09:15.759 --> 00:09:18.440 its magical use for clear sight and a joyful spirit. 134 00:09:21.080 --> 00:09:25.960 And next we have Solomon's Seal. Folk name Dropberry, Lady Seal, 135 00:09:26.279 --> 00:09:30.080 Saint Mary's Seal, Seal Wart, and louder Wort. It is 136 00:09:30.120 --> 00:09:34.440 feminine associated with Saturn, chiefly reflecting the herb's association with 137 00:09:34.480 --> 00:09:38.360 boundaries and protection. Some traditions also connected to mercury for 138 00:09:38.399 --> 00:09:42.080 its wisdom and communication aspects. It is associated with the 139 00:09:42.120 --> 00:09:45.879 element of water, sometimes earth. Due to its grounding, rooty nature, 140 00:09:47.080 --> 00:09:49.759 it is often linked to deities of magic and transformation. 141 00:09:50.559 --> 00:09:54.799 Modern practitioners name Hakate, Greek goddess of crossroads and protective magic, 142 00:09:55.080 --> 00:10:00.039 as a patroness of solomon Seal. Likewise, Caridwin Celtic goddess 143 00:10:00.080 --> 00:10:02.559 of wisdom and change, and other wisdom figures like frig 144 00:10:02.600 --> 00:10:07.240 and Isis have been associated the biblical king Solomon, legendary 145 00:10:07.279 --> 00:10:11.360 master of arcane knowledge, is an implicit patron. The plant's 146 00:10:11.399 --> 00:10:14.639 signature scars on the rhizome are said to resemble the 147 00:10:14.639 --> 00:10:18.000 seal of Solomon, his signet ring, giving it an aura 148 00:10:18.080 --> 00:10:22.840 of wise authority. Solomon's Seal root has an enduring reputation 149 00:10:22.919 --> 00:10:27.840 as an herb of wisdom, protection and spiritual healing. In 150 00:10:27.879 --> 00:10:30.639 European folk magic, the root was placed at the four 151 00:10:30.679 --> 00:10:32.919 corners of a home to guard against evil and create 152 00:10:32.960 --> 00:10:36.679 a consecrated boundary. It is frequently used in exorcism and 153 00:10:36.720 --> 00:10:39.679 warding rights, and effusion of the root can be sprinkled 154 00:10:39.679 --> 00:10:44.000 around a space to seal it from align entities. The 155 00:10:44.159 --> 00:10:47.679 very name evokes King Solomon's seal, a symbol of command 156 00:10:47.720 --> 00:10:50.720 over spirits, so the herb is believed to confer authority 157 00:10:50.759 --> 00:10:55.200 in magical workings, helping practitioners bind or banish unwanted influences 158 00:10:56.720 --> 00:11:00.080 because its seals and finalizes. It's also employed in rituals 159 00:11:00.120 --> 00:11:03.720 to end unhealthy cycles or habits, eating the user and 160 00:11:03.759 --> 00:11:08.279 breaking attachments and moving through transitions, which may include Solomon 161 00:11:08.360 --> 00:11:11.360 seal and incenses or mojo bags to assist in decision 162 00:11:11.440 --> 00:11:14.720 making and life changes, Reflecting its folklore as a root 163 00:11:14.799 --> 00:11:19.559 of wise choices and smooth transitions, some use it in 164 00:11:19.600 --> 00:11:22.559 love spells as well, not to inflame passion, but to 165 00:11:22.600 --> 00:11:26.279 seal loving bonds and promote fidelity. Its alternate folk named 166 00:11:26.320 --> 00:11:30.600 seal word hints at binding together as an operatory incense, 167 00:11:30.799 --> 00:11:34.440 it is burned to honour protective deities or ancestors, to smoke, 168 00:11:34.480 --> 00:11:40.240 symbolically sealing the ritual space against interference. In Hudu, Solomon 169 00:11:40.320 --> 00:11:42.840 seal is sometimes added to bats for blessing and to 170 00:11:42.919 --> 00:11:49.080 seal one's or after uncrossing. The themes across traditions is completion, mastery, 171 00:11:49.200 --> 00:11:52.879 and protection. It helps close doors that need closing, whether 172 00:11:53.000 --> 00:11:55.600 casting out a spirit or ending a chapter of life, 173 00:11:55.840 --> 00:12:00.120 all under the ages of wisdom and divine order. When 174 00:12:00.120 --> 00:12:02.840 a cult source calls it the root of change and protection, 175 00:12:03.279 --> 00:12:06.399 noting it assists in accepting and seeking change while warding 176 00:12:06.399 --> 00:12:10.639 off malicious spirits. Indeed, to take up Solomon's seal in 177 00:12:10.759 --> 00:12:14.240 ritual is to invoke the disciplined, mature magic of Saturn, 178 00:12:14.360 --> 00:12:17.720 drawing boundaries, invoking wisdom, and ensuring that what is sent 179 00:12:17.759 --> 00:12:23.320 away stays away. Solomon seal has a quiet but notable 180 00:12:23.320 --> 00:12:28.080 profile and herbal medicine, primarily for the musculoskeletal system. The 181 00:12:28.159 --> 00:12:32.240 rhizome contains compounds like saponins that support connective tissue repair 182 00:12:32.480 --> 00:12:36.080 and may reduce inflammation in joints and tendons. Herbalists have 183 00:12:36.159 --> 00:12:39.200 used it as a tonic for tendons and ligaments, finding 184 00:12:39.200 --> 00:12:43.399 it helpful and healing strains. Interestingly, this mirrors its magical 185 00:12:43.480 --> 00:12:46.840 role in mending and sealing wholeness on the nervous system 186 00:12:46.919 --> 00:12:49.919 solomon Seal's effects or subtiler. It is not a famous 187 00:12:49.919 --> 00:12:52.879 sedative or stimulant when it can indirectly soothe nerves by 188 00:12:52.879 --> 00:12:56.240 resolving pain or imbalance in the body by reducing joint 189 00:12:56.240 --> 00:12:59.840 pain or aligning skeletal structures. Some herbalist claims it helps 190 00:12:59.840 --> 00:13:03.039 re knit bone and sinu It can relieve the chronic 191 00:13:03.080 --> 00:13:07.240 stress that pain imposes on the nervous system. This relief 192 00:13:07.279 --> 00:13:11.399 can allow the parasympathetic nervous system vegas mediated to engage 193 00:13:11.399 --> 00:13:17.120 more fully, promoting relaxation and recovery. Traditional Chinese medicine uses 194 00:13:17.200 --> 00:13:21.639 related polygonitim species huang ying as a yen tonic for 195 00:13:21.720 --> 00:13:26.840 nourishing the nerves, improving energy while calming restlessness. Modern research 196 00:13:26.840 --> 00:13:31.399 into polygonitim extracts suggests they have neuroprotective and cognitive benefits. 197 00:13:32.840 --> 00:13:36.360 One study found irisin and other compounds on polygonanim may 198 00:13:36.399 --> 00:13:39.960 promote neural growth and protect brain cells from oxidative stress. 199 00:13:40.879 --> 00:13:46.039 Preliminary evidence also shows anticholon estrace activity a polygonitim extract 200 00:13:46.320 --> 00:13:52.120 modestly inhibited acetocholon estates, potentially aiding memory by preserving acetocholine. 201 00:13:53.039 --> 00:13:56.480 Such an effect, while needing further validation, aligns with solomon 202 00:13:56.559 --> 00:13:59.960 seal lore of wisdom and mental clarity. Additionally, the star 203 00:14:00.000 --> 00:14:03.559 marches in the room provide steady nutritive energy, hence its 204 00:14:03.639 --> 00:14:06.840 historical use as a food by some indigenous groups, which 205 00:14:06.879 --> 00:14:10.360 can stabilize blood sugar and prevent the generous or neural 206 00:14:10.399 --> 00:14:17.000 irritability that comes with hypogloscemia. Summarizing its neurological profile, Solomon's 207 00:14:17.000 --> 00:14:20.639 seal is adaptogenic and restorative. It gently supports the body's 208 00:14:20.639 --> 00:14:24.519 structural healing and likely has an antiolytic side effect By 209 00:14:24.559 --> 00:14:28.399 grounding and strengthening the body. It grounds the mind. People 210 00:14:28.399 --> 00:14:30.759 who take it off and report a sense of centered calm. 211 00:14:30.799 --> 00:14:35.200 Over time, It may modulate the autonomic nervous system towards balance, 212 00:14:35.600 --> 00:14:39.559 neither sedating heavily nor over stimulating, but rather encouraging a 213 00:14:39.600 --> 00:14:43.559 return to homeostasis. This makes sense for an herb under 214 00:14:43.600 --> 00:14:48.080 Saturn's tutelage, slow and steady restoration of order, while not 215 00:14:48.120 --> 00:14:51.960 as overt in neuropharmacology as some other herbs. Here, Solomon 216 00:14:52.039 --> 00:14:55.080 Seal's contribution to vagual health comes through healing what is 217 00:14:55.080 --> 00:14:58.159 broken and calming what is inflamed, sealing the body and 218 00:14:58.200 --> 00:15:04.080 wholeness so the mind can find peace. And Next up 219 00:15:04.120 --> 00:15:10.120 we have Ru. Folk names are herb of grace, Ruda, garden, Rue, Herbie, grass, 220 00:15:10.240 --> 00:15:14.480 and witchman. It is masculine. It is associated with Mars 221 00:15:14.559 --> 00:15:18.039 and the Sun. Ru carries fire pungent energy, yet also 222 00:15:18.120 --> 00:15:21.279 a solar golden hue and is associated with the element 223 00:15:21.320 --> 00:15:26.440 of fire for deities. Radia, the folkloric Italian witch messenger 224 00:15:26.440 --> 00:15:30.080 of Diana, and Diana herself are often cited as patrons 225 00:15:30.080 --> 00:15:33.440 of Rue, likely due to Ru's prominence and Mediterranean magic 226 00:15:33.679 --> 00:15:36.799 and its role in protecting against the evil eye, something 227 00:15:36.879 --> 00:15:40.639 under Diana's purview as a guardian of the vulnerable. In 228 00:15:40.720 --> 00:15:44.399 Stregaria Italian witchcraft, Ru is sacred to Aradia as a 229 00:15:44.480 --> 00:15:47.840 key witch's herb. Some also like it to Apollo for 230 00:15:47.919 --> 00:15:51.240 its sun aspects, or Mars as a martial herb, but 231 00:15:51.360 --> 00:15:54.360 Aradia and Diana are the clearest deity connections given in 232 00:15:54.399 --> 00:15:58.519 modern sources. In Catholic folk practice, it's associated with the 233 00:15:58.559 --> 00:16:02.240 virgin Mary, hence of grace, as holy water was sprinkled 234 00:16:02.240 --> 00:16:06.320 with ru. Few herbs are renown for protection and banishment 235 00:16:06.360 --> 00:16:09.840 as rue. Across Europe and Latin America. Ru has been 236 00:16:09.879 --> 00:16:12.200 the godu herb to ward off the evil eye in 237 00:16:12.320 --> 00:16:16.360 all manner of hexes, witches, in layfolk alike war sprigs 238 00:16:16.399 --> 00:16:19.320 of rou or place it above doorways to repel curses 239 00:16:19.559 --> 00:16:22.960 and malevolent spirits. Its very scent was believed to drive 240 00:16:22.960 --> 00:16:26.519 away evil. In Italy, a silver charm called the Timaruda 241 00:16:26.600 --> 00:16:28.919 sprig of Roux was crafted in the shape of a 242 00:16:29.000 --> 00:16:32.519 roue sprig and hung around necks over infant cribs for protection. 243 00:16:33.440 --> 00:16:36.639 Rue's protective power with such that paradoxically it was known 244 00:16:36.679 --> 00:16:40.639 as witchbane, which is purportedly feared, yet also as one 245 00:16:40.679 --> 00:16:43.559 of the witch's five herb allies with ravane, yarrow, and 246 00:16:43.600 --> 00:16:48.000 so on, marking it as both tool and ward Historically, 247 00:16:48.200 --> 00:16:51.360 Middle aged sorcerers carried you to guard against poison and 248 00:16:51.440 --> 00:16:54.399 werewolf spells, and it was used to fume or smudge 249 00:16:54.639 --> 00:16:58.759 homes to cleanse negativity. As the herb of grace, Priests 250 00:16:58.799 --> 00:17:01.519 dipped roux and holy water edie to sprinkle blessings and 251 00:17:01.600 --> 00:17:04.480 act mirrored in magical practice by using ruse briggs to 252 00:17:04.519 --> 00:17:10.160 expurge salt water for purification rites. In spells, rou is versatile. 253 00:17:10.599 --> 00:17:14.039 Added to bath, it breaks chinxes and removes curses burned 254 00:17:14.039 --> 00:17:17.759 with frankinsense. It exercises demons mixed into floor washes. It 255 00:17:17.799 --> 00:17:21.799 spiritually sanitizes a home. Ru is also said to sharpen 256 00:17:21.839 --> 00:17:24.960 psychic sight. A small amount in tea or under the 257 00:17:25.000 --> 00:17:29.559 pillow is believed to stimulate second sight and creativity. Because 258 00:17:29.559 --> 00:17:33.319 it ruefully smells bitter, it symbolically drives away bitterness and 259 00:17:33.400 --> 00:17:38.680 negative influences. It has a malevolent detecting lore. One superstition 260 00:17:38.759 --> 00:17:40.759 claims that rule will wither in the hand of an 261 00:17:40.839 --> 00:17:43.720 unfaithful lover or in the presence of someone cursing you. 262 00:17:44.880 --> 00:17:47.799 In love magic, it's less common, though some use is 263 00:17:47.839 --> 00:17:51.119 to promote fidelity, sprinkling rue around the bed to cool 264 00:17:51.200 --> 00:17:54.160 lust and keep a partner faithful, tying to its property 265 00:17:54.160 --> 00:17:58.880 of chastity. In some sources, however, generally, rue banishes rather 266 00:17:58.920 --> 00:18:02.839 than attracts. When in doubt, use ru goes the occult 267 00:18:02.920 --> 00:18:07.359 saying for uncrossing work fame. The cultis Agrippa loided Rux's 268 00:18:07.400 --> 00:18:12.640 ability to repel venomous energies and even actual poison. Modern 269 00:18:12.640 --> 00:18:15.160 witches continue to regard ru as an herb that nobody 270 00:18:15.200 --> 00:18:19.160 hexes you when you wureak O rue In summary, Ru's 271 00:18:19.160 --> 00:18:22.720 magical use is center on cleansing, protection, exorcism, and clarity. 272 00:18:23.279 --> 00:18:26.440 It both purifies the space and the spirit, helping one 273 00:18:26.480 --> 00:18:30.279 detach from negativity. Juliet Diaz calls it the herb of detachment, 274 00:18:30.440 --> 00:18:34.000 to find one's true self beyond outside influences. Little wonder. 275 00:18:34.000 --> 00:18:37.039 It's counted among the most powerful protective herbs in folklore, 276 00:18:37.160 --> 00:18:40.279 its legacy spanning from ancient Greek usage to contemporary Latin 277 00:18:40.319 --> 00:18:45.000 American Caranderismo, where rue ininabulant or bath is a staple 278 00:18:45.000 --> 00:18:50.480 against mal puesto bad vibes. Ruse biochemical profile is potent. 279 00:18:50.960 --> 00:18:56.720 It contains alkaloids, quinonine, alkaloids like scimianine, volatile oils, methyl 280 00:18:56.839 --> 00:19:01.799 non ol ketone, siniole, and flavonoids, notably route named after Rue. 281 00:19:01.920 --> 00:19:05.519 These confer a mix of medicinal and toxic properties and 282 00:19:05.640 --> 00:19:09.519 high doses. Rule can be narcotic and slightly convulsant, but 283 00:19:09.640 --> 00:19:15.119 in controlled doses it has notable neuromodulatory effects. Recent pharmacological 284 00:19:15.160 --> 00:19:19.480 studies have found extracts have anti convulsiant and ensiolytic properties 285 00:19:20.039 --> 00:19:23.559 seemingly medicated by the GABBA urgic system. In mice, a 286 00:19:23.640 --> 00:19:28.240 methanol extract of RULE leaves significantly protected against chemically induced seizures, 287 00:19:28.680 --> 00:19:32.720 much like standard GABBA boosting drugs. Co Administering RU with 288 00:19:32.799 --> 00:19:36.240 GABBA A agonists enhanced the anti seizure effect, and the 289 00:19:36.240 --> 00:19:41.559 effect was blocked by flumizinal a benzodiazepine site antagonist, indicating 290 00:19:41.640 --> 00:19:47.200 RUE contains compounds that positively modulate GABBA A receptors. In essence, 291 00:19:47.279 --> 00:19:52.200 RULE likely increases GABBA availability or receptor responsiveness, contributing to 292 00:19:52.240 --> 00:19:56.799 a sedative calming influence on the CNS. This aligns with 293 00:19:56.880 --> 00:20:00.240 traditional reports that RULE calms hysterics and was us used 294 00:20:00.240 --> 00:20:04.920 for anxiety and folk medicine. Conversely, ruse alkaloids also interact 295 00:20:04.960 --> 00:20:09.319 with serotonin and dopamine pathways. One study noted its antiolytic 296 00:20:09.319 --> 00:20:13.640 effects involve modulation of dopamine D two and serotonin five 297 00:20:13.960 --> 00:20:18.079 H T two receptors as well. The net effect is 298 00:20:18.119 --> 00:20:23.160 a mild tranquilizing action. Users of ruet sometimes report drowsiness 299 00:20:23.200 --> 00:20:27.160 and mental calm. Interestingly, in the Renaissance, RU is said 300 00:20:27.200 --> 00:20:31.279 to improve iesight and creativity. Michelangelo and da Vinci supportedly 301 00:20:31.359 --> 00:20:35.200 kept RUE for clear vision and inspiration. We now know 302 00:20:35.359 --> 00:20:39.559 Ruse routin is a strong antioxidant that can improve microcirculation, 303 00:20:39.920 --> 00:20:43.680 including to the eyes of brain by reducing oxidative stress 304 00:20:43.680 --> 00:20:48.279 and inflammation, root and strengthens capularies and has neuroprotective antioxidant effects. 305 00:20:48.559 --> 00:20:52.640 Rue might safeguard neural tissue and support cognitive clarity in 306 00:20:52.759 --> 00:20:55.680 the long term. There is also evidence that ruse compounds 307 00:20:55.720 --> 00:21:00.359 inhibit enzymes like gabba, transseminase and MAO, which would raise 308 00:21:00.440 --> 00:21:05.839 GABBA and a monoamy neurotransmittal levels, respectively. Such inhibition can 309 00:21:05.880 --> 00:21:11.880 produce calm and even antidepressant effects. However, caution at improper doses, 310 00:21:12.039 --> 00:21:18.160 rou can cause neurotoxicity, dizziness, and spasms. Its perranocuremins can 311 00:21:18.200 --> 00:21:23.359 provoke phototoxic reactions, and its alkaloids can overstimulate. If not balanced. 312 00:21:24.160 --> 00:21:27.440 Folk use cleverly employed tiny doses just enough to steady 313 00:21:27.480 --> 00:21:31.559 the nerves without harm. Another notable effect RU is a 314 00:21:31.559 --> 00:21:36.720 bronchodilator and anti spasmodic. In traditional Persian medicine, it was 315 00:21:36.839 --> 00:21:42.200 used for breathing difficulties. Modern finding suggests RUE relaxes smooth muscle, bronchi, 316 00:21:42.279 --> 00:21:47.000 and intestines via calcium channel blocking, which can relieve asthma 317 00:21:47.119 --> 00:21:51.839 and digestive cramps. By easy breathing, it directly signals the 318 00:21:51.920 --> 00:21:55.359 vagus nerve that all is well, since slow, deep breathing 319 00:21:55.480 --> 00:21:59.960 is vagual. In some rue's physiological actions mirror its magic. 320 00:22:01.039 --> 00:22:04.440 It wards off caeizures and excessive neural firing just as 321 00:22:04.440 --> 00:22:07.519 a wards off evil. It clears the head with improved 322 00:22:07.519 --> 00:22:11.519 circulation and calm, just as it clears negative influences. The 323 00:22:11.599 --> 00:22:16.200 vagus nerve likely benefits from Ruse multifaceted calming, lowering heart 324 00:22:16.279 --> 00:22:19.480 rate and blood pressure due to less anxiety and enhancing 325 00:22:19.559 --> 00:22:24.240 parasympathetic tone. By gabber, urgic means little wonder, those under 326 00:22:24.240 --> 00:22:27.880 psychic attack or high stress might instinctively reach for rudity. 327 00:22:28.519 --> 00:22:32.400 It literally soothes the brain and spirit, creating a biochemical 328 00:22:32.440 --> 00:22:38.920 sanctuary for internal and external assaults. And next up we 329 00:22:39.000 --> 00:22:44.000 have witch hazel folk names snapping hazelnut, spotted elder, and 330 00:22:44.079 --> 00:22:47.480 winter bloom. It is masculine associated with the sun and 331 00:22:47.519 --> 00:22:51.400 the element fire. No prominent deity is traditionally tied to 332 00:22:51.440 --> 00:22:54.880 witch hazel, but its attributes suggests connections to solar and 333 00:22:54.920 --> 00:22:58.599 healing figures. Being a North American plant, some see it 334 00:22:58.640 --> 00:23:02.319 as sacred to native woodlands spirits. The neo pagan use 335 00:23:02.559 --> 00:23:05.279 one might invoke Apollo or raw for its sun rulership, 336 00:23:05.720 --> 00:23:08.960 or forest goddesses for its use in dowsing, ardio a 337 00:23:09.079 --> 00:23:13.119 Diana in her aspect as goddesses or wild grows. However, 338 00:23:13.160 --> 00:23:15.359 which hazel is far more famed for its tool use 339 00:23:15.480 --> 00:23:19.839 divining rods than for divine patrons. Its title, which comes 340 00:23:19.880 --> 00:23:24.000 from Old English, weis's client rather than implying witches, yet 341 00:23:24.039 --> 00:23:27.039 witches quickly adopted it. It can be symbolically linked to 342 00:23:27.119 --> 00:23:29.880 Hikate of Freyer in her c RS role due to 343 00:23:29.920 --> 00:23:34.359 its divinatory function, but such associations are modern and not universal. 344 00:23:35.240 --> 00:23:37.960 Which hazel branches have a storied place in divination and 345 00:23:38.000 --> 00:23:41.200 protection magic. The forked twigs of which hazel, were the 346 00:23:41.200 --> 00:23:44.559 classic choice of dowsing rods, used to locate underground water 347 00:23:44.640 --> 00:23:48.119 or hidden minerals. This practice was so prevalent that the 348 00:23:48.119 --> 00:23:52.200 plant's name became synonymous with finding what is hidden. Magically, 349 00:23:52.279 --> 00:23:54.880 this translates to which hazel being used in spells of 350 00:23:54.920 --> 00:23:59.319 seeking revelation and inner guidance, which might carry a which 351 00:23:59.319 --> 00:24:02.079 hazel wand when searching for a missing object or seeking 352 00:24:02.119 --> 00:24:05.119 clarity on an issue, Trusting the plants a tumin to 353 00:24:05.240 --> 00:24:09.359 hidden currents. Because it flowers in the witching season late 354 00:24:09.440 --> 00:24:12.279 fall of winter, unusual for shrubs, it earned a bit 355 00:24:12.359 --> 00:24:16.160 of mystical oree winter bloom that brings golden fringed flowers 356 00:24:16.240 --> 00:24:19.920 after sam Hayne. Thus it's associated with hope and light 357 00:24:20.039 --> 00:24:23.240 in darkness, used in charms to uplift during dark times. 358 00:24:24.039 --> 00:24:27.200 Cunningham notes which hazel bark and twigs carried on one's 359 00:24:27.240 --> 00:24:31.640 person helped mend a broken heart and cool the passions. Indeed, 360 00:24:31.759 --> 00:24:34.519 infolk belief, wearing a small piece of which hazel wood 361 00:24:34.799 --> 00:24:38.920 would soothe heartbreak, likely due to its calming sunfire energy, 362 00:24:38.960 --> 00:24:43.279 calling the turbulence of emotional pain. In protective magic, which 363 00:24:43.319 --> 00:24:46.039 hazel is stored to guard against evil influences if hung 364 00:24:46.079 --> 00:24:50.240 by windows or doors. Its a stringency in medicine stops bleeding, 365 00:24:50.559 --> 00:24:54.200 carries into magic as an ability to contract and repel harm. 366 00:24:55.319 --> 00:24:58.039 Some nineteenth century sources suggest sprinkling, which hazel in a 367 00:24:58.079 --> 00:25:01.920 room dispels evil spirits, somewhat akin to how it dispels 368 00:25:02.000 --> 00:25:07.200 varicose veins and medicine, metaphorically shrinking the presence of unwanted entities. 369 00:25:08.079 --> 00:25:10.759 Because of its name, people have long assumed which is 370 00:25:10.839 --> 00:25:14.000 favorite to which hazel moniker, possibly coming from its use 371 00:25:14.160 --> 00:25:16.920 by New England, which is for spells. Whiches might use 372 00:25:16.960 --> 00:25:20.839 which hazel water the distilled extract to cleanse ritual tools, 373 00:25:20.960 --> 00:25:24.920 or as a skin purifying toner before rituals, believing it 374 00:25:24.960 --> 00:25:28.799 cleanses the ore as well as the complexion. In rural 375 00:25:28.839 --> 00:25:31.839 American folklore, which hazel could be used to charm away 376 00:25:31.880 --> 00:25:35.160 a fever or warp an incantation said over a which 377 00:25:35.200 --> 00:25:38.960 hazel stick, then the stick buried, transferring the malady into 378 00:25:39.000 --> 00:25:41.759 the earth. This overlaps with its medical use for skin 379 00:25:41.880 --> 00:25:47.440 issues mirrored magically summarily, which Hazel's magic is subtler than 380 00:25:47.519 --> 00:25:50.960 fiery herbs like rhue or cinnamon. It's a balancer. It 381 00:25:51.000 --> 00:25:55.319 divines truth, protects quietly, heals emotional wounds, and brings light 382 00:25:55.359 --> 00:25:58.799 to shadow, much as its extract brings down swelling and 383 00:25:58.880 --> 00:26:01.759 its rod finds water on the ground, as one witchy 384 00:26:01.839 --> 00:26:05.319 writer put it, which Hazel teaches us to bend without breaking, 385 00:26:05.720 --> 00:26:09.839 reflecting its flexible twigs used as wands, imparting resilience and 386 00:26:09.920 --> 00:26:14.559 hidden wisdom to the practitioner, which Hazel's most famous. Medically 387 00:26:14.599 --> 00:26:18.920 as a topical estringent and anti inflammatory, The bark and 388 00:26:19.000 --> 00:26:21.680 leaves are rich in tannins, which can strict tissue and 389 00:26:21.720 --> 00:26:26.359 blood vessels, reducing swelling, bleeding, and irritation. Applying which Hazel 390 00:26:26.359 --> 00:26:28.640 to the skin or gums causes local nerve endings to 391 00:26:28.680 --> 00:26:32.519 calm simply because inflammation is reduced. It relieves the stinging 392 00:26:32.559 --> 00:26:36.000 pain of cuts, hemorrhoids, or rashes by tightening the tissue 393 00:26:36.000 --> 00:26:40.519 and reducing fluid leakage that presses on nerves. While it's 394 00:26:40.559 --> 00:26:44.119 not traditionally ingested in large amounts, eternal use can upset 395 00:26:44.119 --> 00:26:47.880 the stomach due to tannins. Small doses were used for diarrhea, 396 00:26:48.119 --> 00:26:52.240 which also involves calming over active smooth muscles. In terms 397 00:26:52.319 --> 00:26:55.799 of direct neurological effect, which Hazel doesn't strongly sedate or 398 00:26:55.799 --> 00:26:59.599 stimulate when taken internally, Instead, its contribution to the nervous 399 00:26:59.599 --> 00:27:03.599 system is us through indirect modulation of sensory signals and inflammation. 400 00:27:04.559 --> 00:27:08.680 By using peripheral irritation, skin and mucous membranes, it lowers 401 00:27:08.720 --> 00:27:11.839