How To Cleanse and Purify your Environment Using Incense Part 2

As mentioned in part 1, I recently got back into burning incense particularly for purification purposes, especially around the house. No home is ever perfect and I don’t know of any person who does not ever strive for one. For me home is where the heart is and positivity within one creates a more powerful unit and individual. Your home is where you retreat from all the different kinds of energy you are exposed to on a daily basis and if at the least, it should be the place where you can come to rest and renew your mind, body and spirit.

The use of smoke or incense to purify and cleanse people, places and things is a very ancient practice. Throughout many cultures, countries and customs, the belief that energy can take hold of your surroundings (aura, business or home) be it positive or negative, was and still is a very prevalent belief. The lives of our ancient ancestors, for the most part, revolved around keeping this energy balanced. They believed that the imbalance of this energy is reflected through illnesses, depression, anger,confusion and lack of will among many.

 Some call it prana, chi, mana, spirit or simply energy. Not only are we filled and surrounded with this energy but so are the things, places and people around us.

No matter what you may call it, this constant flow of potential life, creativity and renewal known as energy exists in all of us. However you may want to manifest your energy depends solely on you. We are constantly emitting this energy by way of our thoughts and actions toward oneself and others. Unfortunately as individuals it’s difficult to control the negative ways of thinking of most people. That’s why it’s so important to cultivate a stronger and more positive mind for one self, helping to lead by example. What you speak, think and act upon ultimately creates your mood, personality, aura and your daily existence.

Your mind, intentions and thoughts are in fact the main components you are trying to put to work here. The incense, resins, charcoal and smoke are just mere tools to help you tap into your subconscious mind where your true, deep desires and true self resides. The conscious mind always needs something tangible to hold on to. More like an affirmation if you will.

Using incense to rid a place of negative vibrations is similar to smudging and an excellent way to clear your surroundings of negative, unfulfilled energy. Smudge sticks are basically dried herbs, most commonly sage, bundled, wrapped and ready to burn. Whether it be a smudge stick or loose incense, the concept of using the smoke to cleanse and purify your home, business or work/personal space is the intention.


Smudge Sticks


Recently my sister moved into a new apartment and I had the opportunity to mix up a few incense concoctions of my own. I find that whenever moving into a new place it’s always good to give the new place not only a physical cleansing but spiritual one as well. This is a simple yet effective way you can rid the place of the last person’s vibrations and program your new home or space with your vibrations and energy which for me is of peace and prosperity.

Here I will show you the wide variety of common herbs I have been using to burn as incense. I find that I like to use fresh herbs. Sometimes I grind them or burn them whole it all depends on how I may feel. Like with most things, herbs carry their own energy field and vibrations. Herbs are also very versatile and carry within them pleasing aromas and unique qualities benefiting the body and spirit. What’s so amazing is that you can basically find these herbs at your local food market or kitchen cupboard.

Here are a few of my favorites:

Rosemary

Rosemary can be burned to purify any space especially those places where illnesses, conflicts and lack of peace persists. Rosemary helps promote positive energy and it’s known to be one of the oldest incenses.  When burned, rosemary helps attract love and lust especially for those seeking love and companionship. Rosemary also promotes healing and mental clarity.

Thyme

Burn thyme for, healing, purification, courage.

Feeling a little fear about something you are passionate about and want to banish those doubtful thoughts and take the plunge? Then burn a little thyme to give you strength and courage to manifest your your intent, be it a new job, change in life etc.

Thyme is also burned to attract good health, banishes negative energy and uplifts the mind and spirit.

Thyme’s purifying and healing vibrations helps clear an area where  someone is suffering from an illness especially long term illnesses. Ideal for creative work spaces, thyme helps to renew energy and purifies spaces of low energy helping you become more productive and creative in what it is you may be working on. Associated with the planet of love Venus, thyme is very useful for attracting all types of love and peace into the home as well.

Sage

Sage is very popular throughout the Native American tradition and ritual of smudging. Sage is an excellent herb to have especially for those starting anew. Be it a new home, relationship, or life decision, sage is a very nice herb to burn especially while meditating on such matters. Sage purifies spaces allowing for more life enhancing energy to flourish. Keeping a sage plant near helps absorb negativity. Sage also promotes wisdom and learning which is a very good vibration to promote in any ambiance.

Rue; Ruda

This is my first time using  ruda. Last year I encountered ruda in candle form and liked it so thought I’d get me a pack just see how well this herb burns. Second to sandalwood, I’m really feeling this herb. When burned, Ruda emits this very soft musky scent that I can’t describe. When I smell it I get this really good vibe and thoughts of comfort always comes to mind. Ruda can be burned to attract love and peace. Associated with blocking all evil, negative and low vibrations ruda is an ideal herb to burn to help purify any area. You can check out my post on ruda for a more detailed description.


Sandalwood

Sandalwood has become my favorite and my go to incense recently. I find that I reach for sandalwood most often especially right before meditating. Sandalwood is used for spiritual elevation as well as a very effective calming and soothing scent. I like to use this incense with others like frank and myrrh. It’s a very nice incense to burn for peace of mind ald also promotes luck and prosperity.

Frank And Myrrh

Frankincense

Frankincense is very ancient and associated with spiritual enlightenment. A very potent protective incense helping rid your space of negativity and low vibrations. Frankincense also draws love into your home. Not just love from others but brings out the love from within one self.

Myrrh

You really can’t mention frank without Myrrh. Like Frank, Myrrh posses amazing healing and protective qualities. When paired you have yourself a great incense to burn. I used frank and myrrh during the holidays, when I had all sorts of people, moods and energy roaming about.
Myrrh promotes love and peace as well.

When it comes to incense the possibilities are endless. Familiarizing yourself with each scent is key since you learn how to  pick up each herb’s different vibration. I find that I can tolerate softer scents like sandalwood and ruda. I find that sage, frank and myrrh are rather strong in terms of how I feel and sense each.

I intended for this post to be a two part series but since I did not want to cram everything into one post I decided to add a third part. Next post will basically cover the basic tools you will need and mention a few basic safety precautions before you get started.

Sources:

Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs

The Complete Book Of Incense, Oils and Brews

Images:

Via Tumblr

Via Beauty In Everything

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All the Glee in a Cup of Tea

 Now that fall is officially here and the dead of winter is soon approaching the nights are going to get much longer and colder from here on end. I used to be a hot chocolate kind of girl during these unforgiving times (with whip cream and a hint of cinnamon of course) but since my sinuses tend to flare up when it comes to most things dairy (on top of trying to curb my sweet tooth) I’ve had to find a decent substitute. So why not substitute with a nice cup of tea?

Image Source

I never used to be a tea person, not even iced tea during the summer. The after taste would be a huge turn off. I guess now that I’m getting older and less picky about food, I’ve come to embrace tea. When most think of tea they think herbs…all kinds of herbs. However, tea is in a league of it’s own. Most “teas” out on the market are not really teas per se. Here’s why…..

*****Herbal Infusions (tisanes) Vs. Tea (Camellia sinensis)*****

In order for a tea to be considered an official tea it should come from the plant Camellia sinensis aka Tea. Unless it contains this plant it’s technically not a tea. The leaves and several other parts of this plant are used to provide what we know to be official tea. 

Herbal teas (really herbal infusions or Tisane) on the other hand comes from a variety of seeds, herbs and spices such as chamomile, cinnamon, ginger, lavender etc. The slight difference is that tea is a plant of it’s own kind and tea tends to have more caffeine than most herbal infusions. Not that herbal teas (tisane) are not as good, just that tea has it’s own chemical structure unique to itself just like any other plant.

 Chamomile Herb

Check out my Chamomile herbal infusion post

All tea comes from Camellia Sinensis (tea plant) which has been cultivated for thousands of years all throughout the world especially Asia, with China being the most popular country to cultivate tea. Tea has an extensive history throughout not only China but around the world as well. The many varieties of teas we are familiar with all depends on the different techniques and fermentation processes the tea plant has gone through.

The color of most teas can vary from white, green to black. Depending on the level of fermentation, processing, climate, mountain, picking method and season the aroma, taste and color of tea can vary significantly.

*****Types of Teas*****

White Tea (unfermented) sweet in taste

Green Tea (unfermented) bitter-sweet in taste

Black Tea (fermented) Bitter sweet

Oolong Tea (semi fermented) Bitter sweet

Image Source

As I mentioned, tea is in a league of it’s own especially when it comes to it’s medicinal properties.

The history of tea began as a medicinal one and with no wonder considering the many health benefits a cup of tea every now and then can provide. In China especially, tea has been consumed for thousands of years for it’s incredible medicinal properties.

Cancer

Tea has been related to reducing the risk of many types of cancers. Ovarian, breast, colon, esophageal and even skin cancer to name a few.

Heart Disease/Weight loss
Tea has also been been attributed with boosting metabolism levels which helps encourage healthy weight loss. Tea is also diuretic helping reduce water retention making it an ideal slimming beverage. Tea also reduces the risk of arterial disease, high blood pressure and helps keep bad cholesterol levels at bay.

Anti aging and Immune Boosting Qualities
Tea contains high levels of antioxidants (polyphenols) which is what sets tea apart. Essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, Tea helps detoxify the body eliminating excess waste and toxins. It’s antioxidant level slows down the process of aging as well.

One of the reasons why I was not too keen to tea was because of it’s almost grassy bitter after taste. Trying not to give up such great benefits I decided to give tea another try. With white tea as far as bitterness that is not the case. I went out to my natural health store last weekend and picked up this White Tea for 4.50, a pack of 16 by Choice Organic Teas. Since white tea goes through less processing the taste is not as strong. This tea is very sweet and smooth and it’s just right for me in terms of after taste.

Unlike green and black tea, white tea contains little to no caffeine, which is great especially for the evenings. White tea is great for gynecological problems, headaches, arthritis and helps detoxify the blood as well.

White tea contains a load of antioxidants, it’s also antibacterial and antiviral while it enhances the immune system. It’s also rich in fluoride helping make your bones and teeth healthier.

I will keep exploring the many varieties of teas out there and see which one works best for me. I have a cup of white tea every morning with a little brown sugar, even though this white tea is naturally sweet. Although I have never had issues with constipation, I find that I “go” to the bathroom more often than usual. A sign perhaps that the white tea is helping me cleanse. One of the reasons why I purchased it in the first place.

In the mean time I will be indulging in tea and herbal infusions most of this winter as well as try other varieties of tea to see what else works best for me. Until then indulge in a cup of tea it cleanses, warms you up and provides your immune system with many benefits as well.

Sources:

Tea and tea products: chemistry and health-promoting properties

By Chi-Tang Ho, Jen-Kun Lin, Fereidoon Shahidi

The Complete Medicinal Herbal by Penelope Ody

Asian Health Secrets by Letha Hadady

Google.com/Google Images

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The Natural Health and Beauty Uses of Chamomile

Chamomile (manzanilla), like most herbs, can truly become a beautiful sight especially when growing them. However, many do not know or understand the great benefits herbs can provide. This is why chamomile is so popular. A fascinating and easily accessible herb used for thousands of years for a variety of health ailments and beauty treatments, it is of no wonder why chamomile is still widely used to this day.

Loose Camomile Herb found at my local market

Chamomile is great for many stomach problems. A simple tea can treat menstruation cramps, gases, constipation, nausea and indigestion. With just 5 mins of steamed inhalation, several times a day, chamomile can also help with respiratory issues such as sinusitis (sinus allergies) sore throats, and even asthma. For insomniacs, chamomile helps ease and calm the mind enabling those with trouble sleeping to relax and wind down making it an ideal tea before bed to ensure a restful night.

As a child during the dead of winter my mother would always make my sister and I chamomile tea with guava paste toast. The soothing and warm feeling a warm cup of chamomile tea can provide you with is rather simple yet amazing. Chamomile’s calming qualities allows you to release the day’s stress, tension and look forward to a rested mind and nervous system. Now that fall is here, it’s the best time to indulge in a variety of teas and chamomile can be a great start if you are not too familiar with teas.

As with every fall, this tends to be a time where most will be getting sick with the change of weather and all. Most likely you or someone around you will deal with one form of a cold or the other soon come winter. With chamomile’s immune enhancing, antibacterial and antiseptic properties chamomile can be an ideal tea for treating and preventing the cold and flu symptoms many will dread this coming winter (fever, nausea, pain). Chamomile is also known to be used as a mouth wash killing harmful bacteria existing in the mouth.

This tea however, I did not make to drink. Instead I chose to give myself a steam facial not only to benefit my skin but keep my rather bothersome sinuses at bay.

I bought a small package of loose chamomile tea at my local produce market for $1.You can also find it from many vendors online as well as most natural health stores. This facial steam can be done with regular chamomile tea bags as well. A steam facial can help open your pores and provide you with a clearer complexion. Adding chamomile to the mix can sooth irritated skin (like my nose). Chamomile is also known for dealing with eczema, skin inflammation and itchy skin conditions.

To give yourself a steam facial simply boil water and add your chamomile. Once your water has boiled let it sit for a minute or two and grab a towel. Make sure your hair is out of the way and your eyes are closed. Keep an ideal distance between you and the pot and place the towel over your head. You want to stay under the towel enjoying the steam for about five minutes. You can follow up with a face mask of your choice or simply rinse with cool water to close you pores and follow up with a moisturizer.

I made a lot of tea so I saved a little to experiment with a homemade toner I have been meaning to do. Either way chamomile has many great qualities for both your health and skin leaving you with an array of health benefits and possibilities.

Health Benefits of Camomile

Herbal Treatment of Children: Western and Ayurvedic perspectives

 By Anne McIntyre

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Herbs: Rue, Ruda

(Image clovegarden.com)

Ruda, also known as rue, ruta graveolens, herb of grace, common rue, Rue 21 ( my favorite clothing store lol ) and many more names, is native to countries along the Mediterranean sea from northern Africa and throughout southern Europe. Spreading into Asia, Mexico and basically around the world ruda is a very popular herb. Aesthetically Ruda can make a great addition to any garden with it’s deep green and abundant leaves serving as a great back drop for the beautiful yellow flowers Rue produces. Not only can rue be visually appealing it also helps keep those pesky stray cats out of your garden. It is said that most cats can not tolerate Rue.

Rue has several health, culinary and esoteric uses known since ancient times. Parts of the plant, in high doses can be poisonous and may cause skin irritations on some people. Health wise Rue is known for treating digestive issues, the nervous system, joint and bone problems, parasites along with respiratory to menstrual issues as well. Ruda has a very strong and musky scent which is perhaps one of the main reasons why rue is known to be an effective insect and cat repellent as well as in magic, repelling negative vibrations and thoughts.

(Ruta pro-ecuador.com)

“Magically” Rue is a protection herb and has been said to be used by priests to sprinkle followers with holy water, to also protect against demons, negativity and the evil eye as it was known to be used in ancient Rome for this very purpose, as well as in Mexico, Brazil and throughout the Caribbean today. As a protection herb you can use Rue in baths, candles and pouches you can carry, to help empower and protect your aura, promote health, love, mental powers, concentration and many more self cultivating abilities latent within us. Rue has also been known to work well with prosperity, money and career situations. As a love and balancing herb, Rue works great with your desired intent to promote an environment free of negative thoughts and energy. Ridding you of bitter and sorrow feelings, Rue takes charge in protecting you from suffering heartaches and guilt and helping you to concentrate on positive options to overcome such emotions.

Growing up in such a versatile community (NYC) I have always seen ruda mingling with a wide variety of dried herbs in Mexican produce shops, Asian specialty shops and in African oil stands, mostly used to promote positive energy while at the same time abolishing negative vibrations that can sometimes hinder self development and progress. Ruda also grows in harsh places and where any other plant wont, symbolically representing it’s ability to withstand and thrive through difficult terrain and circumstances. Certain Swallowtail caterpillars and butterflies are actually dependant upon Rue, which makes for a great butterfly haven in your garden as well as representing renewal and transformation.

I first encountered ruda not as the herb but as a candle. I was browsing my local produce shop one day and came across this ruda candle. This candle caught my eye in particular because it was the first time I have come across an herb based candle. Usually I always see deity candles, solid colors but never have I seen an herb based candle. The candle is as deep green as the ruda plant leaves themselves and has at first a very strong scent which when lit, lingers for about a day or so. On the label you see a couple and the herb rue. This candle can be used for a variety of purposes so long as your intent is defined. Many use it to work with their heart chakra, for money, prosperity and to just simply create a quiet soothing vibration in your home, business,work area, study area, meditation room, etc.

 Despite Ruda being known for it’s bitter strong smell this ruda candle actually has a light sweet scent but at the same time very strong. The first time I lit it, my room had this very soft evergreen aroma lingering for a day or two. Which helped enforce my intent every time I would smell it. Below is a photo of a vase I like to fill up with water halfway and place my candle in.

This is not only to enhance the water element but also to prevent fires. These candles are seven day candles (they last 5 days really), most people leave them on for that length of time so it is always best to use precaution when using candles. so I always place it in water just in case. You should try to have a space for you and your candles, free of noise, frequent movement, loose clothing, drapery etc.

Candle in vase with water

This is great because not only can you use it as a safety measure but you can always add essential oils to the water like petals, honey, anything you desire to help enhance your intent. Candles can be a great form of meditation, helping you focus and center your thoughts and intentions.

For more info on Ruda you can check out these very interesting books:

-Essential Herbal Wisdom: A Complete Exploration of 50 Remarkable Herbs By Nancy Arrowsmith

-Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs By Scott Cunningham

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