Quercus spp.
MEDICINAL: Oak bark is used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and bleeding. For external use the bark and/or leaves are boiled and then applied to bruises, swollen tissues, wounds that are bleeding, and varicose veins.

RELIGIOUS: The oak is the most sacred of all the trees. The most powerful mistletoe grows in oaks. The leaves are burned for purification, and the branches make powerful wands. The acorn is a fertility nut. It is carried to promote conception, ease sexual problems, and increase sexual attractiveness. The leaves and bark are used in binding spells. Planting an acorn in the dark of the Moon will bring you money. Oak wood carreid will protect from harm, and hung in the home it will protect the home and all within.

Avena sativa, A. fatua
MEDICINAL: Oats are a traditional food for those recovering from an illness. It also supplies necessary fiber in the diet. Oats made into packs and pastes clear up many skin disorders, such as acne.

RELIGIOUS: Oats are used in prosperity and money spells, and in rituals to the harvest.

GROWING: Oats are an annual grass that grows up to 4 feet tall. Easiest to purchase from a health food store, as much is needed to be beneficial, and takes up more room than the average gardener has available. It does make a pretty ornamental grass in the garden and around foundations.

Allium sepa
MEDICINAL: Onion is used externally as an antiseptic. Internally, it can alleviate gas pains, reduce hypertension, and reduce cholesterol.

RELIGIOUS: Has been used as a charm against evil spirits. Halved or quartered onions placed in the home absorb negativity. An onion under your pillow will give you prophetic dreams. Magickal swords and knives are purified by rubbing them with an onion half.

GROWING: Onion is a perennial herb that grows from a bulb. It prefers rich garden soils and plenty of water. The greens above ground can be used alone, and the bulb harvested by pulling from the ground, and allowing the tops to dry before storing in a dry location, with temperatures between 35 and 50 degrees F.

Citrus aurantium
RELIGIOUS: The dried peel is added to love charms. The fresh or dried orange flowers added to the bath makes you attractive. The fruit itself hinders or banishes lust. Orange juice is used in rituals in place of wine.

GROWING: Oranges prefer a rich, sandy soil, and warm year-round temperatures. For most of us, that means growing them indoors as house plants.

Origanum vulgare
MEDICINAL: Oregano is used to promote perspiration as a treatment for colds, flu, and fevers. A tea of oregano is often used to bring on menses and relieve associated menstrual discomfort. It is also used in baths and inhalations, as well drinking the infusion, to clear lungs and bronchial passages. Internally and externally it can help alleviate dry itching skin. The essential oil is used to treat viral infections, respiratory ailments, and muscle aches. Pregnant women should not ingest large amounts of oregano.

RELIGIOUS: Oregano is used to help forget and let go of a former loved one, such as a former spouse, boyfriend, girlfriend, etc. Burn in incenses or drink the infusion to aid in spells for letting go.

GROWING: Oregano is a perennial that prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline soil and full sun. It is propogated by seed, root division, or cuttings. Harvest just as the plant is about to bloom for medicinal use.

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