Witches Garden: Love in a Mist

 

Love in a mist

Love-in-a-Mist (Nigella damascena) is a traditional medicinal herb primarily valued for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and respiratory-supporting properties. 

While its cousin, Nigella sativa (Black Cumin), is more famous in medicine, N. damascena contains unique alkaloids and oils that have been used for centuries to treat digestive distress, menstrual irregularities, and skin conditions. 

Core Medicinal Properties

Scientific and traditional studies highlight the following therapeutic actions:

• Anti-inflammatory & Analgesic: Its extracts can reduce swelling and pain, traditionally used for toothaches, joint discomfort, and sprains.
• Respiratory Relief: Acts as an expectorant to clear mucus; historically used to treat coughs, asthma, and mild bronchitis.
• Digestive Support: Traditionally used to allay "griping pains" (colic), bloating, and indigestion.
• Skin Healing: Infusions are applied topically to soothe minor skin irritations, eczema, and rashes.
• Antimicrobial: Exhibits antibacterial and antifungal effects, making it useful for cleaning minor cuts and inhibiting certain bacterial growth. 

Active Phytochemicals

The medicinal power of the plant comes from several key bioactive compounds: 

• Damascenine: A mildly narcotic alkaloid that provides analgesic (pain-killing) effects.
• Thymoquinone: A powerful antioxidant that inhibits inflammatory pathways.
• Flavonoids: Compounds like quercetin and kaempferol that protect cells from oxidative damage.
• Saponins: Contribute to its effectiveness as a cough remedy by loosening mucus. 

⚠️ Safety and Toxicity

While beneficial in small doses, the plant requires caution: 

• Mild Toxicity: The seeds contain damascenine, which can be toxic in large quantities.
• Pregnancy Warning: It is an emmenagogue(stimulates menstrual flow) and should be avoided by pregnant women as it may cause uterine contractions.
• Gastrointestinal Upset: Overconsumption of seeds can lead to stomach upset or discomfort. 

Traditional Administration

• Seed Powder: Often mixed with honey or warm water (1–2g) to aid digestion or joint stiffness.
• Flower Infusion: Dried petals steeped as a tea are used as a mild sedative or skin tonic.
• Topical Oil: Seed oil massaged into the skin for muscle aches or eczema

Love-in-a-mist (Nigella damascena) is a herb historically used in folklore for protection, love attraction, and emotional harmony. Its magical properties, often linked to its dreamy, tangled appearance, include fostering romantic mystery, strengthening deep love connections, and creating "kisses," while its seeds are used in prosperity charms and to create a protective, pleasant-scented atmosphere. 

Magical and Folk Properties of Love-in-a-Mist:

• Love Spells and Romance: Often used to attract love, represent deep love, or signify "entangled" romantic emotions, according to FlowersLuxe and FiftyFlowers.
• Protection and Luck: The seeds are believed to offer protection for health and bring good luck, 
• Perseverance and Calm: Represents inner strength, perseverance, and, in the language of flowers, a "puzzle" or "kiss me," says ABC Organic Gardener Magazine.
• Psychic/Mental Clarity: Historically used in "fumes" to "drie the braine," aiming to clear mental fog, says Alchemy Works. 

Usage Examples in Folk Magic:

• Sachets for Protection: Use seeds in sachets to protect against negativity, similar to its traditional use against insects.
• Handfasting Bouquets: Utilise the dried seed pods in bouquets or wreaths for marriage ceremonies to symbolise enduring, albeit complex, love, suggests Alchemy Works.
• Attraction Rituals: Place the flowers in a bedroom to encourage romance. 

Synonyms and Associated Names:

The plant is known by various names that hint at its magical or complex nature, including: 

• Devil in a Bush
• Chase the Devil
• Ragged Lady
• Saint Catherine's Flower
• Love-in-a-Puzzle
• Fennel Flower

Our Magical Solar System: Jupiter

 

Part One

Deities: Zeus, Jove, Brihaspati, Marduck, Bel, Ishkur, Baal Hadad, Thor, Amun Ra, Tinia, Indra, Dagda, Chango 

Kabbalah: Chesed

Core Correspondences for Jupiter Rituals

Use these to set up your altar or workings:

•  Day & Timing: Thursday; Jupiter planetary hours 

•  Colors: Royal blue, deep purple, indigo, yellow/gold, white.

•  Metal: Tin (or representations of it); sometimes gold.

•  Stones: Amethyst, lapis lazuli, sapphire, citrine, clear quartz, emerald.

•  Plants & Herbs: Oak (leaves, acorns), cedar, sage, nutmeg, cinnamon, star anise, clove, bay laurel, figs, olives, dandelion.

•  Incense: Cedar, frankincense, mastic, storax, saffron, nag champa, or sweet aromatic blends.

•  Offerings: Wine, honey, fruits (especially figs or grapes), nuts, yellow sweets or foods, yellow flowers/rice/turmeric (in Vedic contexts), bread, or acts of charity.

•  Symbols: Thunderbolt, eagle, scepter, oak crown, cornucopia, the number 4, Jupiter’s sigil or magic square (4x4), Wheel of Fortune tarot card.

•  Archangels/Spirits (in Western occultism): Tzadkiel (or Sachiel), intelligence Johphiel.

Jupiter, the largest planet in our solar system, has long captivated human imagination not merely as a gas giant of immense physical scale but as a profound symbol of spiritual expansion, divine wisdom, and metaphysical abundance. 

Across cultures and esoteric traditions, it embodies the principle of growth beyond material limits—the bridge between the earthly and the celestial, the personal and the universal. Its influence invites humanity to reach higher, to cultivate faith, and to align with cosmic order through optimism, ethics, and higher knowledge.

In ancient mythology, Jupiter (known as Zeus to the Greeks) stands as the king of the gods, ruler of the sky, thunder, and justice. Son of Saturn (Cronus), whom he overthrew, Jupiter/Zeus represents the establishment of divine order from chaos. 

His thunderbolt symbolises sudden illumination and the enforcement of cosmic law, while his eagle signifies far-seeing vision and sovereignty. As the “father of gods and men,” he dispenses mercy, protection, and abundance, yet also upholds moral boundaries. This archetype reflects a metaphysical truth: true expansion arises not from unchecked indulgence but from benevolent authority rooted in wisdom and justice. 

In Roman tradition, Jupiter (or Jove) similarly embodied the sky father, linking the heavens to earthly governance and prosperity. 

Eastern traditions, particularly Vedic astrology (Jyotish), deepen this symbolism. Here, Jupiter is Brihaspati or Guru—the preceptor of the gods and divine teacher. The name “Guru” means “heavy one,” heavy with wisdom, or one who removes darkness (gu = darkness, ru = remover). Brihaspati guides the devas (gods) with sacred knowledge, upholding dharma (righteous order), morality, and spiritual insight. In the birth chart, a strong Jupiter (as karaka or significator) bestows higher learning, ethical living, prosperity, children (as legacy and creativity), and spiritual grace. It governs the pursuit of truth, philosophy, and rituals that connect the individual soul to the divine. 

A well-placed Guru fosters optimism and faith; an afflicted one may manifest as overindulgence, false beliefs, or materialism detached from ethics. In the Taittiriya Upanishad, Jupiter is linked to the intellect and speech of the cosmic body (Virat Purusha), underscoring its role as the voice of universal intelligence. 

Metaphysically, Jupiter represents the principle of expansion in all realms: physical, mental, and spiritual. Its glyph—a crescent of receptivity (soul) rising above the cross of matter—illustrates the elevation of consciousness beyond the material plane. It encourages growth through experience, the integration of knowledge into wisdom, and the cultivation of a “higher mind” or divine intellect. 

In Theosophical and esoteric views, Jupiter’s substance is finer and more evolved than Earth’s, symbolising a superior spiritual vibration. It acts as the “light of a thousand suns” in some Eastern interpretations, channeling inner guidance and the energy of the higher self. As the first of the “spiritual planets” in karmic astrology (beyond the personal planets Sun through Mars), 

Jupiter marks the shift from ego-driven concerns to soul-level development, fostering compassion, generosity, and a sense of abundance derived from faith rather than scarcity. 

In Western occultism and alchemy, Jupiter corresponds to the sephira Chesed (Mercy) on the Tree of Life in Kabbalah—the sphere of loving-kindness, archetypal ideas, and expansive creation. It balances the severity of Mars/Geburah, forming a moral triad with the Sun (Tiphereth). 

Alchemically associated with tin, Jupiter governs processes of fermentation and increase, where matter enlivens and grows. Its magical correspondences include the color purple or deep blue, the number four, the day Thursday, the archangel Sachiel or Tzadkiel, and plants like oak, cedar, and anise. 

Talismans of Jupiter are crafted for wealth, good fortune, wisdom, legal success, and protection—often invoking its stabilising, affirming energy to manifest opportunities aligned with divine will. In planetary magic, rituals to Jupiter emphasise gratitude, ethical expansion, and connection to higher guidance, countering limitation with optimistic possibility. 

Spiritually, Jupiter embodies the archetype of the Teacher, the Philosopher, and the Pilgrim—the inner sage who urges exploration of meaning, religion, and philosophy. It governs the quest for truth and the development of faith, not as blind belief but as an expansive trust in the benevolence of the cosmos. 

In Jungian-influenced archetypal astrology, Jupiter reflects the urge toward wholeness through broadening perspective, integrating shadow aspects of indulgence or arrogance into mature wisdom. It connects to the superconscious self, free from confinement, where one experiences unity with the divine. 

Challenges under Jupiter’s influence—such as excess or misplaced optimism—serve as lessons in discernment, teaching that genuine growth requires grounding in ethics and dharma. 

Ultimately, the spiritual and metaphysical aspects of Jupiter remind us that the universe is not indifferent but richly supportive of conscious evolution. Its vast presence in the night sky mirrors the vastness within: the potential for the soul to expand, to embrace abundance without greed, and to become a conduit for divine grace. 

By attuning to Jupiter—through meditation on its qualities, study of higher knowledge, or rituals of gratitude—we align with the cosmic teacher, transforming personal limitations into gateways for wisdom, justice, and enlightened living. In an age often marked by contraction and fear, Jupiter’s call to optimism and higher ideals offers a timeless metaphysical anchor: grow boldly, but with mercy and truth as your guides.

Look out for part two next week!

Deck time: The Runic Tarot by Lo Scarabeo

 

The Runic Tarot by Lo Scarabeo

The Runic Tarot, published by Lo Scarabeo and created by Jack Sephiroth and Jaymi Elford.  Graced with artwork by Zhang Chao this is striking deck that weaves together the traditional structure of Tarot with the deep symbolism of Norse mythology and the Elder Futhark runes.

It’s an atmospheric deck, often praised for its gritty, cinematic art style that feels both ancient and modern. The 78 card deck is heavily inspired by Valhalla, the Viking Age, and the Sagas. The included detailed guidebook is high quality, easy to read and is an ideal guide not just for this deck but also runes in general.. 

Jack Sephiroth’s digital painting style uses a muted, "earth and steel" palette. It’s dark, moody, and highly detailed, focusing on the raw power of the Norse gods and the harsh landscapes of the North.

Each card features a corresponding Rune from the Elder Futhark. This isn't just a cosmetic addition; the rune's meaning is intended to provide a secondary layer of interpretation to the Tarot card.

While it follows the standard 78-card Tarot format, the Runic Tarot renames and reimagines several elements to fit the Viking theme:

The Major Arcana

The archetypes are replaced with figures from Norse myth:

• The Fool is represented as a traveler at the start of a saga.

• The Magician is often linked to Odin (the seeker of wisdom).

• The High Priestess becomes The Seer (Völva).

• The Chariot features Thor’s goat-drawn cart.

The Minor Arcana

The suits are renamed to reflect the tools of the Norse world:

• Wands → Horns (Spirit, social gatherings, fire)

• Cups → Chalices (Emotion, intuition, water)

• Swords → Swords (Intellect, conflict, air)

• Pentacles → Shields (Physicality, protection, earth)

If you are considering adding this to your collection, here is what you need to know:. To get the most out of this deck, it helps to have a basic interest in runes. The cards offer to  bridge the gap between a standard RWS (Rider-Waite-Smith) interpretation and the specific energy of the depicted rune.

This is a "heavy" deck. It doesn't shy away from themes of battle, sacrifice, and the cold reality of the Wyrd (fate). It is excellent for deep shadow work or questions regarding destiny and personal strength. The Book: Like most Lo Scarabeo kits, it comes with a multi-language companion book. The English sections provide a solid foundation for how the Norse lore connects to the specific card meanings. I strongly advise you to read the book carefully to truly understand and familiarise you with this deck. 

If you are a beginner, the imagery is distinct enough that you can still follow RWS meanings, but the "Shields" and "Horns" terminology might take a few readings to get used to! For those who are interested and influenced by the runes and Viking lore this deck will serve as a great way to use it as tarot whilst also working within the runic lore. It’s a dark, powerful and brooding deck . Pink and fluffy it ain’t but it is a good example of how different lore can be integrated into tarot. 

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Runic-Tarot-colour-tarot-instructions/dp/8865277068

https://www.loscarabeo.com/products/runic-tarot-kit

About the creators

The Runic Tarot is a collaborative effort between two highly respected figures in the modern tarot world: Jack Sephiroth, who provided the visual soul of the deck, and Jaymi Elford, who crafted the structural and written framework.

Jack Sephiroth (The Artist)

Jack Sephiroth is a digital artist known for a specific "cinematic" and "ethereal" style that has gained a massive following in the tarot community. His work often features hazy, misty backgrounds and figures that feel as though they are emerging from another realm. He blends classic fantasy art with a deep, almost grimy realism.  

Notable Works: Before the Runic Tarot, he gained fame for the Heaven & Earth Tarot. If you compare the two, you’ll notice the same masterful use of light and shadow, though the Runic Tarot is decidedly more rugged and "Norse" in its textures.  

Symbolic Focus: Sephiroth is known for weaving complex symbols directly into his art—astrological signs, Hebrew letters, or in this case, runes—making his decks particularly popular with occultists who like "Easter eggs" in their cards.  

Jaymi Elford (The Author)

Jaymi Elford is an expert tarot reader, author, and "divination experimentalist" based in Portland, Oregon. She has over 30 years of experience with the cards.  Her role in the Deck is key. While Sephiroth handled the visuals, Elford was responsible for the intellectual architecture. She bridged the gap between Norse mythology and traditional Tarot meanings, ensuring the deck was functional for actual reading and not just a pretty art piece. She is a major voice in the tarot community, co-hosting podcasts like Cardslingers Coast-to-Coast and writing for The Cartomancer magazine. Her approach is very grounded; she often talks about using tarot as an "inner compass" for daily life.  She authored the book Tarot Inspired Life and has worked on several other decks, including the Triple Goddess Tarot.  

https://www.shadesofmaybe.com/

Why This Duo Works

The pairing of these two is why the Runic Tarot feels so cohesive. The Artist brought the "Viking vibe"—the cold winds, the heavy shields, and the grit of the Sagas. The Author ensured that the runes weren't just slapped on the cards as decoration, but actually aligned with the card’s energy (e.g., placing the rune Thurisaz on a card where its themes of protection and reactive force make sense).