Gurley occult candles are a type of candle that is often associated with occult practices and rituals. These candles are typically made from high-quality beeswax or soy wax and are infused with various herbs, oils, and other materials believed to possess magical properties. The origins of Gurley occult candles can be traced back to ancient times when candles were used for both practical and mystical purposes. In many cultures, candles were seen as a way to connect with the spiritual realm and harness its energy for various purposes such as healing, protection, and divination. Gurley occult candles are often used in rituals and spells to manifest desires, attract positive energy, and banish negativity. Each candle is carefully crafted with specific intentions in mind, such as love, prosperity, or spiritual enlightenment.
Many herbs, including vervain (Verbena officinalis), sage (Salvia apiana), elder (Sambucus nigra) and, of course, St John’s wort (Hypericum) are believed to reach the peak of their powers on the feast of St John. Counterintuitively, it is recommended to cut weeds on the full moon nearest 22 June as they will be at their weakest. Rain on St Swithin’s Day, 15 July, will bless the apple orchard – though, traditionally, if it does rain that day, it will continue to rain for 39 more.
Rain on St Swithin s Day, 15 July, will bless the apple orchard though, traditionally, if it does rain that day, it will continue to rain for 39 more. Wise women, apothecaries, witches, herbalists whatever you call them, those who cultivate plants for their fabled mystical and healing properties have existed for thousands of years.
Each candle is carefully crafted with specific intentions in mind, such as love, prosperity, or spiritual enlightenment. They are typically adorned with symbols, sigils, or written spell instructions to further enhance their magical properties. Many people believe that lighting a Gurley occult candle can help create a sacred space and set the intention for a spell or ritual.
Witching Herbs and their Lore
When I started my herbal adventure many years ago, I was drawn to unusual herbal topics. Oh, I made my vinegars (still do) and my wreaths. My cooking was much improved. But as my herbal interests broadened and my library grew and grew and grew, I became fascinated by the history and lore of herbs.
With fall comes the witching season. What better time to explore some of the witching herbs? While many of the plants in our gardens can be used for charms and spells, some are truly sinister plants that every self-respecting witch needs.
Mandrake (Mandragora officinarum) … In ancient times this plant was used as an aphrodisiac and treatment for infertility. It was mentioned in Genesis when the childless Rachel asked Leah for some of the mandrakes (likely the fruit) she has gathered. It must have worked since she subsequently gave birth to Joseph. Pieces of mandrake were found in the Egyptian tombs and it was mentioned in the Ebers papyrus. How is came to be associated with magic may be lost in the mists of time but someone noticed the resemblance of the root to the shape of a man and a new charm was born.
Recall from Harry Potter how the plant screams when removed from the ground. This ear-piercing scream was said to be able to kill whomever tried to remove it. So, a special procedure was devised. Three circles were drawn around the plant for protection. Then, the soil was loosened around the plant and a black dog was tied to the plant. The witch stepped out of the circle and called the dog which pulled up the plant. In some telling of the tale, the dog would live if it stayed in the first circle but in most the dog was sacrificed to obtain the plant.
As if it wasn’t difficult enough to obtain a mandrake, a special procedure was needed to maintain it. It must be bathed in wine, wrapped in white silk then covered with a black velvet coat. Each week it should be bathed and the bedding and silk changed.
Perhaps all of this was worthwhile since mandrake was believed to contain the red earth of paradise which was necessary to produce the philosopher’s stone. Oh, and it also made one invincible in battle.
Wolfsbane (Aconitum lycoctonum) … Closely related to monkshood (Aconitum napellus), wolfsbane contains aconitine, a deadly poison, and was considered the most dangerous of all the magical herbs. This baleful plant was made by Hecate from the foaming mouth of Cerberus the three-headed dog who guarded the gates of the underworld.
If you have a stray lizard around, you can bind wolfsbane with the skin of your lizard and you will become invisible. Then think of all the candy you could snatch on Halloween. If you are plagued by vampires and werewolves this is the plant for you since it is an effective deterrent.
Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger) … The plant looks and smells of death, perhaps because its favorite home is graveyards. Legend has it that henbane seeds were smoked by the Oracle of Delphi to increase his prophetic powers. Meanwhile the Celts considered it sacred to Bel, their god of prophecy.
Henbane contains atropine, scopolamine and hyoscyamine which in large doses increase the heart rate. They also cause dry mouth, dilated pupils, weakness and agitated excitement. The herb can produce the sensation of the soul separating from the body and flying through the skies. It can also produce a sense of body dissolution and erotic hallucinations. Then, when it wears off the person remembers nothing of what has happened.
(It is interesting to note that atropine is used in medicine to increase the heart rate and scopolamine was a component of “twilight sleep” formerly administered to women in labor so they did not remember childbirth.)
Deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna) and Jimson weed (Datura stramonium) and mandrake all contain atropine, scopolamine and hyoscyamine. The plants and sometimes a bit of opium and fly agaric were included in flying ointments. This was a dangerous brew indeed. Undoubtedly some witches got to the other side in a way they never intended.
If all this seems a bit frightening, just remember that you can keep witches away by throwing a yarrow leaf into the fire or by rubbing your floor with rue.
Andrea Jackson, R.N., is a master gardener with a certificate in sustainable horticulture. She has more than 30 years’ experience studying, lecturing and loving herbs. She belongs to the Herb Society of America, American Herbalist’s Guild and Piccadilly Herb Club, and the American Botanical Council.
The process of lighting the candle and watching it burn can be a powerful and meditative experience, helping the practitioner to focus their energy and intentions. As the candle burns, it releases the energy and properties infused into it, aiding in the desired outcome. It is important to note that Gurley occult candles are not just for those who practice witchcraft or other occult religions. Many people from various spiritual and religious backgrounds use these candles as a tool for manifestation, meditation, or simply as a way to create a more serene and sacred environment. In conclusion, Gurley occult candles are a popular choice for those seeking to harness the power of candles for magical or spiritual purposes. Whether used in rituals, spells, or simply to create a peaceful atmosphere, these candles are believed to possess unique properties that can aid in manifesting desires and connecting with the spiritual realm..
Reviews for "The Ritual of Candle Divination: A Guide to Gurley Occult Candles"
1. Sarah - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with the Gurley occult candle. First of all, the scent was way too overpowering and gave me a headache. Additionally, the candle didn't burn evenly, and it left a lot of wax residue on the sides of the jar. Overall, it was not a pleasant experience, and I would not recommend this candle to anyone looking for a quality and enjoyable scent.
2. Mark - 1 star - I purchased the Gurley occult candle based on the positive reviews I saw online, but I was extremely disappointed with my purchase. The candle had a strange, artificial scent that I found to be quite unpleasant. It also had a weak throw, so I could barely smell it even when I was sitting right next to it. On top of that, the candle burned unevenly and quickly, resulting in wasted wax. I definitely regret buying this candle and would not buy it again.
3. Jennifer - 2 stars - The Gurley occult candle was a complete letdown for me. While the packaging and design were visually appealing, the scent was not what I expected. It had a strange combination of fragrances that didn't blend well together and left a lingering unpleasant odor in my home. The candle also burned quite fast, and the wax seemed to melt unevenly, leaving a lot of wasted product. I wouldn't recommend this candle, especially considering its high price point.