Southern folk magic, also known as Appalachian folk magic, is a form of traditional folk magic that is practiced predominantly in the southern regions of the United States, particularly in the Appalachian Mountains. It is a blend of African, Native American, and European folk magic practices that have been passed down through generations. One of the key aspects of southern folk magic is its close connection to nature. Practitioners often use herbs, roots, and other natural elements in their spells and rituals. These natural items are believed to possess certain magical properties and can be used for a variety of purposes, such as healing, protection, and luck. Another notable feature of southern folk magic is its incorporation of Christian elements.
Ornamental pepper plants can be raised inside, too. The peppers are edible, but the plants are classified as ornamental because they're so small and pretty. Don't take cuttings from these, but carefully pot whole plants.
It s also said to have been used by American Indians to stun fish Tales say they powdered it and cast it upon the waters, and it would cause the fish to rise, stunned, to the surface. The Unwritten Basics You may have run across various formulas that contained some ingredients that were obvious but also contained another ingredient that made you scratch your head and wonder why on earth it was included.
Another notable feature of southern folk magic is its incorporation of Christian elements. Christianity has had a significant influence on the culture of the southern regions of the United States, and this is reflected in the practice of folk magic. Many practitioners of southern folk magic are devout Christians who see their magical practices as complementary to their religious beliefs.
The Magic Of Herbs, Indoors
Herbs have long and strangely spicy histories that make their current status seem like a greal fall. They've been used to make coarse foods delicate, and to make old, basically unpalatable food gastronomically acceptable.
Before refrigeration, this was of such importance that wars were fought over herbs and spices, and the new world was discovered during Columbus' search for a route to bring Eastern spices to Europe.
Herbs were used to heal all illnesses, and, for many centuries, were the only medicines available.
So much power was attached to herbs that they were worn as amulets, used in divinations, made into witches' flying ointments, and used to expand consciousness since at least the time of the ancient Greeks. I don't doubt, in fact, that many of the people who were executed for witchcraft were simply herbalists involved in unconventional uses of plants.
In addition, herbs were used for strewing, and perfuming the air at times when bathing was rare. They were worn by medieval physicians in hopes of repelling plague germs. Valerian was used to attract mice and rats, and catnip to repel them. The artemisias still make effective moth flakes.
Over the years, herbs have fallen from a highly respected position of power to a small supermarket shelf. But herbs are making a comeback.
I can't say what magic works and what doesn't, so I simply offer a list of some magical uses of herbs.
Many herbs have been used to attract money. It's said that basil, carried in a pocket, will attract money like a magnet. And some sources say that if a gambler washes his hands with chamomile tea before beginning, it will put magic into them, and make winning easy.
A bath scented with red clover, taken before a financial transaction, is said to bring success. And buckeyes, or horse chestnuts, are said to bring both luck and money to the person who carries them. It seems, though, that as a child I always had a pocket full of these. I might have been lucky, but I don't remember having any money at all.
The root of High John the Conquerer has long been held as a powerful charm. Legend says that, carried in a pocket, it will cure melancholy, and bring success in any situation. Against all odds.
Calendula flowers were said to bring good luck in court. In old times, it was believed that carrying or wearing this flower would tip the scales of justice in your favor.
Hazel and willow branches have both been used for divining water. A forked stick is held, one end in each hand, and the dowser walks slowly over the earth. The stick is said to bend downwards and vibrate over water. This has been used by many people, and stories about my grandfather say he never failed to find water with a dowsing rod.
The leaves of great mullein were used by Quaker girls to rouge their checks by gently irritating them. It's also said to have been used by American Indians to stun fish: Tales say they powdered it and cast it upon the waters, and it would cause the fish to rise, stunned, to the surface.
Carrying bay leaves was said to improve memory, but cutting hawthorn was said to result in a memory loss. Oil of lavender, rubbed on the temples, is supposed to make a lost memory return.
Now, it may very well be that these herbal charms never worked at all, but that people tried them with the same hopefulness that bald men still buy magical preparations for hair growth; or it may be that herbs have powers that we're only beginning to discover. Who of us knows how much of their power herbs keep hidden? All we can do is play hide-and-seek with them, and it can be a lot of fun.
If you'd like to have some of this magic around your house, this might be the ideal time to get a start on a herb garden, inside, where these spicy plants will offer fresh snippings throughout the season. And, when spring comes, they can go outside, to stretch and grow without fear of winter killing.
Some herbs don't need any special care to make it through the cold -- thyme, for instance; winter can't usually stop it. The same is true of yarrow, sage, woodruff, winter savory and most herbs that can be found growing wild. Mints rarely have a problem to compare with that of the gardener who plants them, unbound, in a garden plot. The mints are so hardy, they always come back, and take more space each year. Parsley, a biennial, always returns to ripen and sow its seeds in spring.
Others, however, need to be inside for their own protection -- even rosemary, which can make it through a mild winter; this pretty little bush will lose the battle if the season gets tough. The same goes for tarragon. And, since true tarragon is grown from cuttings and often difficult to find, it makes sense to save it. Marjoram and oregano may also make it through mild winters, especially if they're well mulched, but a hard winter will do these tender Mediterranean herbs in; so it makes sense to start them inside now.
It's now necessary to start with whole plants: You can take cuttings of herbs and root them in sand. But it's not difficult, either, to grow the whole plants inside. Just get some large pots, and put a layer of small stones or broken crockery into the bottoms. Add a layer of soil. Set the plants into the pots, Fill the pots with fertile soil to half an inch from the tops, and water well.
Give the plants a spot with plenty of light and a temperature between 50 degrees and 70 degrees F. Water them when they get dry, and try to give them a breath of fresh air every day.
Even some annuals are worth the effort. Select a small basil plant, for instance, and plant it with the same care, and it will fill your house with fragrance.
Ornamental pepper plants can be raised inside, too. The peppers are edible, but the plants are classified as ornamental because they're so small and pretty. Don't take cuttings from these, but carefully pot whole plants.
Hardy chives can certainly survive cold winters, but it won't hurt to have a clump to grace your windowsill. They'll grow and thrive, giving you fresh chives for dressings, salads and omelets, and they'll be happy to go outside in the spring.
It's easy to have a little garden inside, to serve as a reminder of green, bright summer days throughout the winter. And it makes the yearly death of living things, which is inevitable in much of the country, just a little easier to bear.
The Druids believed that it was absolutely necessary to bring some of green nature inside for winter -- to provide a shelter for the nature spirits, who would otherwise have nowhere to go. And who knows? It's just possible that if you sneak up on your transplanted herbs in the middle of a winter night, you'll see tiny sprites and fairies dancing. At least you'll smell the fragrance that's released when they brush against the leaves.
Some of the herbs in this list are used primarily for "hexing". When taking my notes, I did not censor them . I was after Knowledge, learning all I could about herbs. If information of this sort frightens you, simply read no further. (some folks really get their knickers in a twist if you even SAY the "H- " word!)
One of the most well-known elements of southern folk magic is the use of charms and talismans. These are often made from natural materials such as bones, feathers, or stones and are believed to possess protective or luck-bringing properties. These charms and talismans are often worn or carried by individuals, and they are seen as a way to ward off evil or attract positive energies. Candle magic is another common practice in southern folk magic. Candles, typically in different colors, are used to represent specific intentions or desires. By lighting the appropriate candle and focusing on the desired outcome, practitioners believe they can manifest their desires more effectively. Divination is also an important aspect of southern folk magic. Practitioners may use various methods, such as pendulums, tarot cards, or scrying, to gain insight or guidance. Divination is often used to seek answers, make decisions, or gain a deeper understanding of oneself or the world around us. Overall, southern folk magic is a rich and diverse practice that has deep roots in the culture and traditions of the southern United States. It is a blend of different magical traditions and beliefs, passed down through generations, and continues to be practiced and cherished by many in the region..
Reviews for "The Practice of Mojo Bags in Southern Folk Magic"
1. Jane - 2 stars - As someone who is a skeptic when it comes to folk magic, I was excited to give "Southern Folk Magic" a chance. However, I was left disappointed. The book provided very little background information or historical context on the practices, making it difficult for someone like me to fully understand and appreciate the beliefs and rituals discussed. Additionally, the book lacked practical guidance or step-by-step instructions, leaving me confused about how to actually incorporate any of the practices into my life. Overall, this book failed to engage and educate me on the subject matter.
2. Mark - 1 star - I found "Southern Folk Magic" to be nothing more than a collection of anecdotal stories and vague descriptions of rituals. The book lacked any substantial information, and the author seemed more interested in sharing personal experiences rather than providing any valuable insights or instructions. The lack of practical guidance made it difficult for me to connect with the practices discussed. I would not recommend this book to anyone looking for a comprehensive or informative guide to Southern folk magic.
3. Sarah - 2 stars - "Southern Folk Magic" left me underwhelmed and unimpressed. The book seemed poorly researched and lacked depth in its explanations of various traditions and practices. The author's writing style was also lackluster, making it difficult for me to stay engaged and interested. The book felt more like a surface-level introduction to the topic rather than a comprehensive exploration. Overall, I don't believe this book did justice to the rich and varied traditions of Southern folk magic.
4. Michael - 1 star - I was highly disappointed with "Southern Folk Magic." The book seemed to rely heavily on clichés and stereotypes, painting a superficial picture of what Southern folk magic truly entails. The lack of detailed explanations and concrete examples left me confused and unsatisfied. I was hoping for a more in-depth exploration of the subject, but instead, I found myself reading repetitive information and unnecessary tangents. I would not recommend this book to anyone seeking a genuine understanding of Southern folk magic.