Celtic folklore speaks of many medicinal and mystical applications of herbs and roots.
Ancient Celtic lore alludes to herbs and roots being used in the treatment of the majority of diseases during their time. Certain preparations were also thought to have mystical applications and were often utilized in lifestyle rituals, like those for prosperity, fertility and peaceful transition into the afterlife. The ancient practice continues in folk communities around the world. Some common ingredients in Celtic herbal applications include yarrow, mugwort, chamomile and raspberry; all parts of the plant are often used.
Instructions
1. Determine the specific herb or root that is to be used. List the ailments or concerns that you want to address with botanical therapy and research known treatments. Investing in a materia medica, which is a guide book for herbal applications, will help you formulate a basic approach. Many old world religious organizations, like the Druids, for example, and wildlife preservation groups have published materia medica literature based on the seasons. Each herb is thought to have both medicinal and mystical uses. For example, mugwort is used to treat medical cases of constipation and intestinal parasites, and is also known to aid in psychic ability and lucid dreaming. It can be helpful to find an herbalist in your area to confer with.
2. Decide on a preparation method. Steeping tea from an herb or root is used often in Celtic herbal practice. The result of steeping the herb or root is an infusion, which can be taken as a drink, or used in a bath, or in an ointment. Ointments can also be made from the essential oil of the herb or root and are generally considered a more aggressive treatment; most often used on wounds or on aches and pains in the extremities of the body. Incense can be made and used for aromatherapy or vibrational medicine. A tincture, a preparation made with strong alcohol, is viewed as an aggressive and vibrationally active treatment, as well. A sachet, in which the herbs and roots are placed is a common mystical preparation. Sachets are laid around the home or the infirm and can be blessed with Celtic prayer. A materia medica will often have detailed preparation information, or instruction can be sought with an established herbalist.
3. Collect the herbs and roots and dry them before use. After harvesting the botanicals, they should be stored in a cool, dry area until most of the moisture evaporates. Herbs and roots used for culinary applications, however, are often used fresh. Herbs and roots can take up to a month to dry out. If you want to buy dried herbs, they can be found at local shops or online.
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