Incense Recipes

Making incense: When preparing your incenses, you can use either a very fine sawdust or a good quality church incense as your base. If you choose to use the sawdust, you can add food coloring and a litlle water to the sawdust to tint it. The amount of color is a personal preference, add as little or as much as you like, and mix well. Lay the sawdust out in a thin layer on a cookie sheet and set it in the sun to thoroughly dry. When mixing the incense blends together, grind the herbs into a fine powder and add the oils last. Be sure to blend it well, and don't forget to focus your intent!
Basic Ritual Incense Recipes
· HEALING INCENSE: 1/4-1/2 cup base, 1 tspn rosemary, 1/2 tspn each: Sandalwood, bay leaf, vervain, thyme, 10-15 drops of healing oil. Make during the waxing moon if you wish to see good health increase, or during the waning moon if you wish to see specific illness or disease decrease.
· BLESSING INCENSE: 1/4-1/2 cup base, 1 tspn each carnation petals and rosemary, 1/2 tspn frankincense, 10-15 drops blessing oil.
· BANISHING INCENSE: 1/4-1/2 cup base, 1 tspn each of Dragons blood and ginger, 1/2 tspn each of caraway and rowan, 1 small pinch wormwood, 10-15 drops banishing oil. Make this incense during the waning moon, bury it for the 3 days of the dark moon.(3 day before new moon)
· PURIFICATION INCENSE: 1/4-1/2 cup base, 1 tspn each of frankincense and bay leaf, 1/2 tspn each of rosemary, jasmine and sandalwood, 10-15 drops of purification oil. Make on the Full or The New moon.
· MAGICK INCENSE: 1/4-1/2 cup base, 1/2 tspn each: frankincense, lavendar, copal, dragon's blood. 1 tspn wysteria. 10-15 drops magick oil.
· SUCCESS INCENSE: 1/4-1/2 cup base, 1 tspn bayberry, 1/2 tspn each of: red clover, ginger and bergamot, 10-15 drops of success oil. make this incense then allow it to charge in the rays of the Noon day Sun.
· PEACE INCENSE: 1/4-1/2 cup base, 1 tspn each of jasmine, chamomile, passion flower, 1/2 tspn each of skull cap and lavendar. Add 10- 15 drops peace oil. Be sure that you're in a state of peace and calm when you make this incense, so that you don't have an adverse effect on the mixture. Store away from major traffic in your home.
· PROSPERITY INCENSE: 1/4-1/2 cup base, 1 tspn bayberry, 1/2 tspn each of: ginger, pomegranate peel, orange peel, cinnamon. Add 10-15 drops prosperity oil. Make on the Full Moon, allow the mixture to sit in the Full Moon light for at least 3 hours.
· FULL MOON INCENSE: 1/4-1/2 cup base, 1 tspn each of willow bark and jasmine blossoms, 1/2 tspn each of white sandalwood and lemon peel. 10-15 drops of Full Moon oil. Make this on the night of the Full Moon, allow it to sit in the Full Moon light for a few hours to finish charging.
· DARK MOON INCENSE: 1/4-1/2 cup base, 1 tspn calamus, 1/2 tspn each of eucalyptus,juniper and patchouli, 10-15 drops of Dark Moon oil. Make this three nights before the New Moon. Allow it to sit outside for each of those three nights, but do not allow sunlight to touch it.
· CHARGING INCENSE: 1/4-1/2 cup base, 1 tspn carnation, 1/4 tspn rowan, 1/2 tspn each of marigold, patchouli and bay, 10-15 drops of charging oil.
Miscellaneous Incense Recipes
•ABRAMELIN INCENSE
2 Parts Myrrh1 Part Wood Aloea few drops Cinnamon Oil
Burn to contact spirits during rituals or as a simple consecrationincense to santify the altar or magickal tools.
•AIR INCENSE
4 Parts Benzoin2 Parts Gum Mastic1 Part lavender1 Pinch Wormwood1 Pinch Mistletoe
Burn to invoke the powers of the element of Air, or to increaseintellectual powers; to obtain travel; for communication, study &concentartion, or to end drug addiction. Smolder during divinatory rituals.
•ALTAR INCENSE
3 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Myrrh1 Part Cinnamon
Burn as a general incense on the latar to purify the area.
•APHRODITE INCENSE
1 Part Cinnamon1 Part Cedara few drops Cypress Oil
Burn during rituals designed to attract love.
•APOLLO INCENSE
4 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Myrrh2 Parts Cinnamon1 Part Bay
Burn during divination & healing rituals.
•APPARITION INCENSE
3 Parts Wood Aloe2 Parts Coriander1 Part Camphor1 Part Mugwort1 Part Flax1 Part Anise1 Part Cardamom1 Part Chicory1 Part Hemp
Burn to cause apparitions to appear, if you REALLY want this to happen.
•ARABIAN INCENSE POWDER
To five ounces of coarsely ground frankincense, add one-half ounce each of ground cascarilla and benzoin, one-quarter ounce each of ground clove and cassia bark, and one eighth ounce tincture of musk. Add one-quarter ounce of saltpeter and once ounce of alcohol and mix them well.
After you get your powder situated you add the essential oils of choice depending on what type of aroma you are after or just use it as is.
•ARIES INCENSE
2 Parts Frankincense1 Part Juniper3 Drops Cedarwood oil
Burn as a personal altar or household incense to increase your own powers.
•ASTRAL TRAVEL INCENSE
3 Parts Sandalwood3 Parts Benzoin1 part Mugwort1 Part Dittany of Crete
Burn a small amount in the room to aid projecting the astral body.
•ATTUNEMENT TO SPIRIT WORLD
1/4 tsp ground SandalwoodOr - 1/2 tsp Sandalwood chips1/4 tsp Balm of Gilead1/8 tsp Sage
•AQUARIUS INCENSE
1 Part Sandalwood1 Part Cypress1 Part Pine Resin
Burn as a personal altar or household incense to increase your own powers.
•BABYLONIAN RITUAL INCENSE
3 Parts Cedar2 Parts Juniper1 Part Cypress1 Part Tamarisk
Burn during Babylonian & Sumerian magickal rituals, or when attuning with such deities as Inanna, Marduk, Enlil, Tiamat & others.
•BELTANE INCENSE
3 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Sandalwood1 Part Woodruff1 Part Rose petals a few drops Jasmine oil a few drops neroli Oil
Burn during Wiccan rituals on Beltane or May Day for fortune & favors & to attune with the changing of the seasons.
•BINDING INCENSE
4 Parts Nettle4 Parts Thistle4 Parts Knotgrass1/4 Part Nightshade1/4 Part Aconite (wolfsbane)Burn with CAUTION during outdoor rituals to destroy baneful habits or thoughts. Small amounts only! DO NOT INHALE FUMES!!
•BORN AGAIN INCENSE
3 Parts Frankincense1 part Mullein1 Part Mums
Burn when distraught over the passing of a friend or loved one.
•BUSINESS INCENSE
2 Parts Benzoin1 Part Cinnamon1 Part BasilBurn to attract customers.
•CANCER INCENSE
2 Parts Myrrh1 Part sandalwood1 Part Eucalyptus1 part Lemon peel(or a few drops of lemon oil)
Use as a personal altar or household incense to increase your own powers.
•CAPRICORN INCENSE
2 Parts Sandalwood1 Part Benzoina few drops Patchouli Oil
Use as a personal altar or household incense to increase your own powers.
•CEREMONIAL MAGICK INCENSE
3 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Gum Mastic1 Part Wood Aloe
This formula is from the Key Of Solomon is typical of grimoire type recipes. It can be used in general magickal workings to raise power & to purify the area. Other recipes include such ingredients as mace, Brandy & Vervain.
•CEREMONIAL MAGICK INCENSE #2
2 Parts Frankincense1 Part Wood Aloe a few drops Musk Oil a few drops Ambergris Oil
Another like the above.
•CIRCLE INCENSE
4 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Myrrh2 Parts Benzoin1 Part Sandalwood1/2 Part Cinnamon1/2 Part Rose Petals1/4 Part Vervain1/4 part Rosemary1/4 Part Bay
Use for general workings in the circle, the ritual working space of Wiccans & Magicians & as a general ritual incense.
•CLEARING INCENSE
3 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Myrrh1 Part Sandalwood
Burn this incense to clear your home of negative vibrations, especially when household members are arguing or when the house seems heavy & thick with anger, jealousy, depression, fear & other negative emotions. Leave the windows open while burning this mixture.
•CONSECRATION INCENSE
2 Parts Wood Aloe1 Part Mace1 Part Storax (or Gum Arabic)1 Part Benzoin
When purifying or consecrating magickal tools, jewelry, quartz crystals & other stones, smolder this incense & pass the tool through its smoke several times. So this while visualizing the fumes purfying the tool.
•COURAGE INCENSE
2 Parts Dragon's Blood1 Part Frankincense1 Part Rose Geranium Leaves(or few drops Rose Geranium oil)a few drops Tonka Bouqueta few drops Musk Oil
Smolder this incense when you lack courage. If you are in a situation where you cannot burn it, recall its scent & be strong. If Tonka Bouquet is unavailable - use Tonka tincture or vanilla extract.
•CRYSTAL PURIFICATION INCENSE2 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Coral1 Part Sandalwood1 Part Rosemary1 Pich finely powdered salta small purified Quartz crystal point
To Use: Pour a bit of incense (leaving the crystal in the jar) onto charcoal. Smoulder & pass the crystal to be purified through the smoke wafting away the stones impurities. Natuarally, this incense can be used in connection with the others recommended purfying rituals, or in place of them.
•CURSE-BREAKER INCENSE
2 Parts Sandalwood1 Part Bay
Burn at night near an open window if you feel "cursed". Though curses are rare, if we believe we are cursed, we are! Therefore smolder this incense & visualize it banishing all negativity from you. Repeat this ritual for 7 nights during the Waning Moon, if possible or desirable.
•CURSE-BREAKING INCENSE 2
2 Parts Sandalwood1 Part Bay1 Part RosemaryAnother like the first.
•CURSE-BREAKING INCENSE 3
2 Parts Frankincense1 Part Rosemary1 Part Dragon's Blood
Smoulder to remove negativity in general.
•DIVINATION INCENSE
1 Part Clove1 Part Chicory1 Part Cinquefoil
Smolder during or directly before using Tarot cards, Runes, etc. But be aware: Doesn't smell good!
•DIVINATION INCENSE 2
2 Parts Sandalwood1 Part Orange Peel1 Part Mace1 Part Cinnamon
Another like the above, & this one smells better.
•DREAM INCENSE
2 Parts Sandalwood1 Part Rose petals1 Part Camphorfew drops Tuberose bouquet few drops Jasmine oil
Burn a bit in the bedroom prior to sleep to produce psychic dreams. Remove the censer from the room before retiring. Use only genuine camphor.
•EARTH INCENSE (Elemental)
2 Parts Pine resin or needles1 Part Patchouli1 pinch finely powdered salt few drops Cypress Oil
Burn for invoking the powers of the element of earth for money, stability & so on.
•EARTH INCENSE (Planetary)
1 part Pine needles1 Part Thyme few drops Patchouli oil
Burn to honor the Earth, & for all earth-reverncing rituals.
•EGYPTIAN INCENSE
4 parts Frankincense3 Parts Gum Arabic2 parts Myrrh1 Part Cedar1 Part Juniper1 part Calamus1 part Cinnamon
Burn during Egyptian rituals, or to honor any ancient Egyptian deity, such as Isis, Thoth, etc.
•EGYPTIAN LOVE INCENSE
1/2 oz Benzoin1/2 oz Cinnamon1/2 oz Galangal1/2 oz Frankincense1 oz Myrrh3 drops honey3 drops lotus oil1 drop rose oil Pinch of dried & pilv. Orris root
•EIGHTFOLD HEARTH INCENSE
2 parts Dragon's Blood2 Parts Myrrh1 Part Juniper1/2 part Sassafras1 part Orange flowers1/2 Part rose petals
Burn for a safe, warm, loving home. Also give as a gift to others.
•ESBAT INCENSE
4 Parts Frankincense3 Parts Myrrh2 Parts benzoin1 Part sandalwood1 Part Gardenia petals1/2 Part Orris1/2 Part thyme1/2 part Poppy Seed1/2 part Rose petals
Burn during rituals & spells on the Full Moon, or at any Wiccan gathering other than the Sabbats.
•EXORCISM INCENSE
3 Parts Frankincense1 part Rosemary1 part Bay1 Part Avens1 Part Mugwort1 part St John's Wort1 part Bail1 Part Angelica
Burn with open windows in disturbed places as a heavy purificatoryincense, & breathe through your mouth while smoldering this.
•FALL SABBAT INCENSE
3 Parts Frankincense2 parts Myrrh1 Part Rosemary1 Part Cedar1 Part Juniper
Burn during fall & winter sabbat rituals.
•FIRE INCENSE
2 parts Frankincense2 parts Dragon's Blood1 Part Red Sandalwood1 Pinch Saffronfew drops musk oil
Smolder for summoning the powers & beings of Fire, & also for success, strength, protection, health, passion & other similar goals. Genuine Saffron is expensive, so only a pinch. You can use Orange peel instead.
•FIRE OF AZRAEL INCENSE
1 Part sandalwood1 Part Cedar1 Part Juniper
Burn while scrying, or throw into coals of a fire once the flames have been quenched & gaze into them to see images form within them. the latter rite is best performed on beach at night. Also general Psychism-inducing.
•FRANKINCENSE INCENSE
2 tbsp pul. Frankincense1 tbsp pwd Orris root1 tsp pwd Clove1 tbsp Lemon oil
Combine & mix all but lemon oil. Put in a jar, seal & keep in a darkplace for 2-3 months. For healing magick, Honor the Mother Goddess & Horned God.
•"FOR EMERGENCIES" ONLY (inspired by Jim Alan's song "Talkin' Wicca Blues)3 Parts Frankincense2 parts Dragon's Blood2 parts Myrrh1 Part Rosemary1 Part Asafoetida *1 Part Cayenne *1 part Grains of paradise1 Part Rue*1 Part Garlic *Burn to be rid of foul demons, wrathful spirits, tax collectors, drunks & other noisome creatures. Stand back & hold your nose or better still, leave the room while this incense is smoldering. Those herbs marked * aren't necessarily dangerous or baneful, but they emit a powerful smoke that is irriating to the eyes, nose & lungs.
FULL MOON RITUAL INCENSE
3 parts Frankincense1 part sandalwood
Burn during Full Moon rituals, or simply to attune with the Moon.
•FULL MOON RITUAL INCENSE 2
2 Parts Sandalwood2 Parts Frankincense1/2 Part Gardenia petals1/4 Part Rose petals few drops Ambergris Oil
Another like the 1st.
•FULL MOON RITUAL INCENSE 3
3 parts Gardenia petals2 Parts Frankincense1 Part Rose petals1/2 part Orris few drops Sandalwood oil
Another like the last.
•GEMINI INCENSE
2 Parts Gum Mastic1 Part Citron-or-1 Part mixed Orange & Lemon peel1/2 Part Mace
Use as a personal altar or household incense to increase your powers.
•GODDESS INCENSE
1/2 dram Cypress oil1/2 dram Olive oil1/2 oz dried rose petals1/2 oz White willow bark3 dried Rowan berries1 tsp anise seeds
•GOOD OMEN INCENSE
5 rose petals11/2 oz myrrh1 oz Dragon's Blood1/2 oz Sassafras1/2 oz Orange blossoms1/2 oz Juniper1/2 oz Sage1 dram Frankincense
•GREEK GOD/GODDESS INCENSE
4 parts Frankincense (sacred/Apollo)2 Parts Myrrh (Demeter)1 part Pine (Poseidon)1 Part Rose Petals (Aphrodite)1 part sage (Zeus)1 Part White Willow bk (Persephone)few drops Olive oil (Athena)few drops Cypress oil (Artemis/Hecate)Burn to honor them.
•HEALING INCENSE
1 part Rosemary1 Part Juniper berries
Burn to speed healing while visualizing.
•HEALING INCENSE 2
2 Parts Myrrh1 Part Cinnamon1 pinch Saffron
•HEALING INCENSE 3
3 parts Myrrh2 Parts Nutmeg1 part Cedar1 part Clove1/2 part Lemon Balm1/2 part poppy seeds few drops Pine oil few drops Almond oil
•HEALING INCENSE 4
2 Parts Juniper berries1 part Rosemary
•HECATE INCENSE
3 Parts Sandalwood2 Parts Cypress1 Part Spearmint (peppermint)
To honor Her, burn at crossroads or during ritual at the waning of the Moon.
•HECATE INCENSE 2
1/2 tsp dried bay leaves1/2 tsp dried mint leaves1/2 tsp dried thyme pinch of myrrh resin pinch of frankincense resin13 drops Cypress oil3 drops Camphor Oil
•HONORS INCENSE
2 Parts Benzoin1 Part Wood Aloe1/2 Part Pepperwort (or Rue)
Burn for honors & favors.
•HORNED GOD INCENSE
2 Parts Benzoin1 Part Cedar1 part Pine1 Part Juniper berries few drops Patchouli oil
Burn to honor Him in His many guises, especially during Wiccan rituals.
•HORNED GOD INCENSE 2
7 drams tincture Benzoin1/2 dram Sandalwood oil1/2 dram myrrh oil 1/2 dram frankincense oil saltpeter 1 oz pwd Charcoal pinch of dried asafoetida pinch of dried blessed thistlepinch of dried peppermint
•HOUSE PURIFICATION INCENSE
3 Parts Frankincense2 parts Dragon's Blood1 part Myrrh1 Part sandalwood1 part Wood Betony1/2 part dillseedfew drops Rose Geranium oil
Burn in your home to cleanse it at least once a month perhaps on the Full moon. Additionally, burn this mixture in a new home before moving in.
IMBOLC INCENSE
3 Parts Frankincense2 parts Dragon's Blood1/2 Part Red Sandalwood1 Part Cinnamon few drops red wine
To this mixture, add a pinch of the first flower (dry it first) that is available in your area of Imbolc. Burn during Wiccan ceremonies or Imbolc, or simply to attune with the symbolic rebirth of the Sun - the fading of winter & the promise of Spring.
•INCENSE AGAINST INCUBUS
2 parts Sandalwood2 Parts Benzoin2 Parts Wood Aloe1 Part Cardamom.1/2 part Calamus1/2 part Birthwort1/2 Part Ginger1/2 Part Pepper1/2 Part Cinnamon1/2 Part Clove1/2 Part carnation1/2 Part Nutmeg1/2 part Mace1/2 Part Cubeb seedfew drops Brandy
This ancient mixture is burned to ward off the Incubus.(INCUBUS: A male demon or spirit that was believed to sexually tempt & abuse women)
•INCENSE FOR CATS
3 teaspoons catnip, dried and crushed1 teaspoon frankincense3 teaspoons pine needles, dried and crushed1/2-3/4 teaspoon gum ArabicRain water to bind gum
Mix all ingredients together in glass bowl. Burn on self igniting coal. For your cat's safety, burn this recipe before he or she come in to play, or place the burner out of reach.
•ISIS INCENSE
3 Parts Myrrh2 Parts Sandalwood1 part Frankincense1 Part Rose petals few drops Lotus bouquet
Burn while reverncing Isis. or, burn during any type of magickal operation, since Isis is the Goddess of All Things.
•JUPITER INCENSE (Planetary)
2 Parts Wood Aloe1 Part Benzoin1 Part Storax (or Gum Arabic)1/4 Part Ash seedfew drops Olive oil1 pinch powdered Lapis Lazuli
Mix & burn. This unusual formula includes a stone & couild also be mixed together & carried as a Jupiterian talisman charm. Burn for spells involving riches, expansion, the law & luck.
•JUPITER INCENSE 2
3 parts frankincense1 Part Mace1 Part Cardomon1/2 Part Balm f Gilead1/4 part pulverized Pomegranate rind1 pinch saffronfew drops Ambergris oil
Another like the above.
•JUPITER INCENSE 3
1 Part clove1 Part Nutmeg1 part Cinnamon1/2 Part Lemon Balm1/2 Part Citron peel(or = parts dried lemon & orange peel)
•KALI INCENSE
This is an individual and personalized incense, for attunement to your own Dark of the Moon. 1 oz (30gm) sandalwood chips1 oz (30gm) Dried jasmine flowers or 6 drops jasmine oil1/2 oz (15gm) dried rose petals2 drops of your own menstrual blood
Blend and use for private meditation during the onset of your menstruation.
•KYPHI
4 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Benzoin2 parts Gum Mastic2 Parts Myrrh1 Part Cedar1 Part Galangal (or ginger)1/2 part Calamus (or vetivert)1/2 part Cardomom7 raisins1/2 part Cinnamon1/2 Part Cassia1/2 part Juniper berries1/2 part orrris1/2 part Cypressfew drops Lotus bouquetfew drops wine few drops honey
Mix the ground dry ingredients thoroughly. Let sit in an airtightcontainer two weeks. In a separate bowl, mix together the oil, wine,honey & raisins. Add to the dry ingredients & blend with the hands. Let sit another 2 weeks. Then, if desired, grind to a fine powder. Kyphi is used in night rituals, to invoke Egyptian Goddess & Gods & as a general magickal incense.
•KYPHI 2 (simplified)
3 Parts frankincense2 parts Benzoin2 Parts Myrrh1 part Jumiper berries1/2 part Galangal1/2 part Cinnamon1/2 Part Cedar2 drops Lotus bouquet2 drops Wine2 drops Honeyfew raisins
Mix, Burn, use as the last.
•LEO INCENSE
2 Parts Gum Mastic1 Part sandalwood1 Part Juniper berries
Use as a personal altar or household incense to increase your powers.
•LIBRA INCENSE
2 Parts sandalwood1 part thymefew drops Rose Oil
Use as a personal altar or household incense to increase your powers.
•"LOCK" INCENSE
3 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Juniper berries1 part Vetivert1/2 part Cumin
To guard your home from thieves: During the day smolder this mixture in a censer before the front door, then move it to each opening in the house (doors, windows, cellars, etc.) through which thieves may enter. Visualize it's smoke forming an invisible but impenetrable barrier. Move in a clockwise circle throughout your home, replenshing the incense as necessary. Repeat monthly at the time of the Full Moon, if possible, or, use as needed. This is designed to "lock" your home against unwanted intruders - but don't forget to bolt the doors as well.
•LOVE INCENSE
2 parts Sandalwood1/2 part Basil1/2 part Bergamotfew drops Rose oilfew drops Lavender Oil
Burn to attract love, to strengthen the love you have, & to expand your ability to give & receive love.
•LOVE INCENSE 2
2 Parts Dragon's Blood1 part Orris1/2 Part Cinnamon1/2 part rose petals
few drops Musk oil few drops Patchouli oil
Another like the above.
•LUGHNASADH INCENSE
2 Parts Frankincense1 part Heather1 Part Apple Blossoms1 pich Blackberry leavesfew drops Ambergris oil
Burn during Wiccan rituals on Aug 1 or 2, or at that time to attune with the coming harvest.
•MABON INCENSE
2 Parts Frankincense1 Part Sandalwood1 Part Cypress1 Part Juniper1 Part Pine1/2 Part Oakmoss(or few drops of Oakmoss Bouquet)1 Pinch Pulverized oak leafBurn during Wiccan ceremonies on Mabon or at that time to attune with the change of the seasons.
•MARS INCENSE (Planetary)
4 Parts Benzoin1 Part Pine needles (or resin)a scant pinch Black pepperBurn to attract its influences, or during spells involving lust,physical strength, competetions, ritual concerning men, etc.
•MARS INCENSE 2
2 Parts Galangal1 Part Coriander1 part Clove1/2 Part BasilA scant pinch Black Pepper
•MARS INCENSE 3
2 Parts Dragon's Blood1 Part Cardamom1 Part Clove1 Part Grains of Paradise
•MEDICINE WHEEL INCENSE
2 Parts Sage1 Part Sweetgrass1 part Pine resin or needles1 part Osha root (or Angelica)scant picture TobaccoBurn during rites revering American Indian deities & spirits, & to attune with the energies of this land.
•MEDITATION INCENSE
1 Part Gum Acacia (arabic)1 Part SandalwoodBurn a small amount prior to meditation to relax the conscious mind.
•MERCURY INCENSE (Planetary)
2 parts benzoin1 Part Mace1/2 part Marjoramfew drops Lavender oilBurn to invoke its powers, or during spells involving intelligence, travel, divination & so on.
•MERCURY INCENSE 2
2 Parts Benzoin1 Part Frankincense1 Part Mace
•MERCURY INCENSE 3
2 Parts Sandalwood1 Part Gum Mastic1/2 Part Lavenderfew drops Lavender oil
•MEXICAN MAGIC INCENSE
2 Parts Copal1 Part Frankincense1 Part RosemarySmolder during Mexican - American folk magic rituals & spells.
•MIDSUMMER INCENSE
2 Parts Sandalwood1 Part Mugwort1 Part Chamomile1 Part Gardenia petalsfew drops Rose oilfew drops Lavender oilfew drops yarrow oilBurn at Wiccan rituals at the Summer Solstice or at that time of the year to attune with the seasons & the Sun.
•MIDSUMMER INCENSE 2
3 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Benzoin1 Part Dragon's Blood1 Part Thyme1 Part rosemary1 Pinch Vervainfew drops Red Wine
•MOON INCENSE
2 Parts Frankincense1 Part sandalwoodfew drops Eucalyptus oilfew drops Jasmine oilfew drops Camphor oilBurn to attract its influences, & also during psychic workings, lovemagick, healing, rituals involving the home & dream magick.
•MOON INCENSE 2
4 Parts Sandalwood2 Parts Wood Aloe1 Part Eucalyptus1 Part Pul. Cucumber seeds1 part Mugwort1/2 Part Ranuculus blossoms1 Part Selenetropefew drops Ambergris oilMay substitute Gardenia or jasmine for selenetrope.
•MOON INCENSE 3
2 parts Juniper berries1 Part Orris1 Part Calamusfew drops Spirits of Camphor-or- Camphor Tincture or 1/4 part genuinecamphorfew drops lotus bouquet
•MOON INCENSE 4
2 Parts Myrrh2 parts Gardenia petals1 part Rose petals1 Part lemon peel1/2 part Camohorfew drops Jasmine oil
•MOONFIRE INCENSE
1 Part Rose1 Part Orris1 part Bay1 Part Juniper1 part Dragon's blood1/2 part Potassium nitrateBurn for divination, love & harmony. The saltpeter is included to make it sparkle & glow. Don't add too much though - it'll explode!
•MORRIGAN INCENSE
1 oz (30gm) musk amberette1/2 oz (15gm) dragon's blood (resin used in violin staining)4 drops patchouli oil4 drops civet oil4 drops of blood from your own fingerBlend at the dark of the Mon, put in a jar and bury in the earth for 6 weeks (a flower pot of peat in a cool cupboard will do).
•NEPTUNE INCENSE
Lay incense coals on a bed of sea salt. When the coals are hot, toss on a mixture of:1/2 tsp myrrh gum11/2 tsp copal resin1 tbsp sandalwood chips1 tsp dried Irish moss3 drops oakmoss oil
•NINE WOODS INCENSERowan Wood (or Sandalwood)Dogwood, Popular, Juniper, Cedar, Pine, Holly Branches, elder (or oak) Take sawdust of each, mix together & burn indoors on charcoal when a ritual fire is necessary or desired but not practical. the incense emits the aroma of an open campfire.
•OFFERTORY INCENSE
2 Parts Frankincense1 Part Myrrh1 Part Cinnamon1/2 part Rose petals1/2 part VervainBurn while honoring the Goddesses & Gods, & as an offering.
•OPENING EYES TO SPIRIT WORLD
1/3 tsp Mastic1/3 tsp Amaramth1/3 tsp yarrow
•OSTARA INCENSE
2 Parts Frankincense1 Part Benzoin1 Part Dragon's Blood1/2 Part Nutmeg1/2 part Violet flowers(or few drops violet oil)1/2 Part Orange peel1/2 Part Rose petalsBurn during Wiccan rituals on Ostara or to Welcome the Spring & to refresh your life.
•PELE INCENSE
2 Parts Frankincense1 part Dragon's Blood1 Part Red Sandalwood1 Part Orange peel1 Part Cinnamonfew drops Clove oilBurn while honoring Pele, the Hawaiian Goddess of Volcanoes. When needing additional strength for any ritual; when you feel manipulated by others, or for Fire spells in general. Burn when you wish to be fulfilled with the power of Pele.
•PISCES INCENSE
2 Parts Frankincense1 Part Eucalyptus1 Part Lemon Peelfew drops Sandalwood oilUse as a personal altar or household incense to increase your powers.
•PROPHECY INCENSE (CAUTION)
1 part Heawort seed1 Part Violet root1 part parsley1 part Hempseed*Burn for divination & psychic work.
•PLANETARY INCENSE (CAUTION)
1 Part Myrrh1 Part Gum mastic1 Part Costus1 Part Oponax1 Part storax1 Part Thyme1 Part Frankincense1 part camphor1 Part red Sandalwood1 Part Wood Aloe1 Part Euphorbium*For general magickal workings. The baneful substance euphorbium, can be replaced w/tobacco. Gum Arabic can be used in place of the Storax. Gum oponax is unobtainable - use an oponax oil or gum arabic.•POWDERED INCENSE
Combine once ounce of ground frankincense, one and one-half ounces of ground cascarilla bark, two ounces of powdered benzoin, and one ounce of storax. Grind these together into a coarse powder and moisten with one-half ounce of saltpeter (sodium nitrate) dissolved in one-half ounce of water. Add to this one ounce of alcohol and mix together. Set it aside to dry, then keep in a closed container.
•PROPHETIC DREAM INCENSE
2 Parts Frankincense1 Part Buchu Burn before bedtime to stimulate the psychic mind toproduce future-revealing dreams, & to ensure that the conscious mind remembers them in the morning.
•PROSPERITY INCENSE
2 parts Frankincense1 Part Cinnamon1 Part Nutmeg1 part Lemon Balm1 Part CitronBurn to attract wealth.
•PROTECTION INCENSE
2 parts Frankincense1 Part Dragon's Blood1/2 part BetonyBurn for both physical & psychic protection while visualizing.
•PROTECTION INCENSE 2
2 Parts frankincense1 Part sandalwood1/2 Part Rosemary
•PROTECTION INCENSE 3
1 Part Frankincense1 part myrrh1/2 part Clove
•PROTECTION INCENSE 4
2 parts Frankincense1/2 Part Cumin
•PROTECTION INCENSE 5
2 parts Frankincense1 part Copal1 Part Dragon's Blood
•PROTECTION INCENSE 6
4 parts Frankincense3 parts Myrrh2 Parts juniper berries1 Part Rosemary1/2 part Avens1/2 part Mugwort1/2 part yarrow1/2 part St. John's Wort1/2 part Angelica1/2 Part Basil
•PSYCHIC INCENSE
3 Parts Frankincense1 Part BistortSmolder to sharpen psychic powers.
•PSYCHIC INCENSE 2
2 Parts Sandalwood1 Part Gum Acacia (or Arabic)
•PSYCHIC INCENSE 3
1 Part frankincense1 part Sandalwood1 Part Cinnamon1 Part Nutmegfew drops Orange oilfew drops clove oil
•PURIFICATION INCENSE (caution)
4 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Bay1 part camphor1 pinch finely pwd salt1 pinch Sulfur*Burn to purify the atmosphere of a disturbed home. Leave the windows open & do not inhale the sulphurous fumes!
•PURIFICATION INCENSE 2
2 Parts sandalwood1 Part CinnamonLeave windows open
•PURIFICATION INCENSE 3
3 Parts frankincense1 part vervain
•RAIN INCENSE (caution)
4 parts Heather1 Part fern1/2 part Henbane*Burn out of doors on a deserted hill to attract rain. do not inhale fumes!
•"RAISE THE DEAD" INCENSE
1 part Pepperwort1 Part Red Storax1 pinch Saffronfew drops Musk oilCompound & fumigate about the tombs & graves of the dead. This will cause spirits & ghosts to gatehr, at least according toancient writings.
•RICHES & FAVORS INCENSE
2 Parts Benzoin1 Part Wood Aloe1/2 Part Peppermint1/2 Part CloveBurn when you need favors & wealth.•SABBAT INCENSE
4 parts frankincense2 parts Myrrh2 parts Benzoin1/2 part Fennel1/2 part Bay1/2 part thyme1/2 part Pennyroyal1/2 part Solomn's Seal1/4 part Rue1/4 part wormwood1/4 part Camomile1/4 part Rose petalsBurn at Wiccan Sabbats.
•SAGITTARIUS INCENSE
2 Parts Frankincense1 Part Myrrh1 Part CloveUse as a personal altar or household incense to increase your own powers.
•SAHUMERIA AZTECA INCENSE
2 Parts Copal2 Parts Frankincense1 Part Rosemary1 Part Sage1 part Lemongrass1 part bay1/2 part marigold1/2 part Yerba SantaFor ancient Aztecan rituals & all Mexican-American folk magic. Also use as a general purification incense. It's a famous incense in contemporary Mexican folk magic.
•SATURN INCENSE (Planetary)
2 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Poppy seed1 Part Gum Arabic1 Part Myrrh1/4 Henbane Seed *1/4 Part Mandrake *few drops Olive oilBurn for Saturn influences; also for spells dealing with buildings,studying past lives, banishing illness, pests & negative habits. This incense can be hazardous to your health; for a recommended Saturian incense see formula #3 below or substitute 1/2 part Tobacco for the Henbane & Mandrake.
•SATURN INCENSE 2 (Caution)
2 Parts Cypress2 Parts Ash Leaves1 Part Alum1 Part Gum Scammony1 Part Asafoetida *1 Part Sulphur *1/4 Part Black Nightshade *Another like the above, but not recommended. By omitting the black nightshade, the incense is fairly innocuous but still smells incredibly foul!
•SATURN INCENSE # 3
2 Parts Sandalwood2 Parts Myrrh1 Part Dittany of Cretefew drops Cypress Oilfew drops Patchouli OilThis is the recommended Saturn incense formula. If you're going to use one of the four, use this one.
•SATURN INCENSE # 4
1 Part Pepperwort1 Part Mandrake1 Part Myrrhfew drops Musk Oil
•SCORPIO INCENSE
2 Parts Frankincense1 Part Galangal1 Part Pine resin (pitch)Use as a personal altar or household incense to increase your powers.
•SCRYING INCENSE
1 Part Mugwort1 part WormwoodBurn a small amount prior to scrying in a quartz crystal sphere, in flames, water & so on. Warning - smells bad!
•SIGHT INCENSE
2 Parts Gum Mastic2 Parts Juniper1 Part Sandalwood1 Part Cinnamon1 Part Calamusfew drops Ambergris Oilfew drops Patchouli OilMix, empower & burn to promote psychic awareness. This is another version of the recipe; others contain Hemp.
•SPIRIT INCENSE (caution)
4 Parts Coriander1 Part Smallage1/4 Part Henbane *1/4 Part Hemlock *Burn outdoors to draw spirits together. As usual, do not inhale fumes!
•SPIRIT INCENSE # 2 (caution)
Root of the weedy herb SagepenJuice of Hemlock *Juice of Henbane *Tapsus barbatusRed SandalwoodBlack Poppy seedFume to make spirits & strange shapes appear. To make them flee, add parsley to this mixture, as this chases away all spirits & destroys all visions.
•SPIRIT INCENSE # 3
1 Part Anisea Part Coriander1 Part CardamomSmolder to cause spirits to gather.
•SPIRIT INCENSE # 41 Part Sandalwood1 Part LavenderBurn on the altar to invite good energies (or spirits) to be present during magical rituals.
•SPIRIT INCENSE # 5
2 Parts Sandalwood1 Part Willow BarkBurn out of doors at night during the Waxing Moon.
•SPIRIT INCENSE # 6
3 Parts Wood Aloe1 Part Costus1 Part Crocusfew drops Ambergris Oilfew drops Musk Oil
•SPIRIT INCENSE # 7 (caution)
3 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Coriander1 Part Fennel Root1 Part Cassia1/2 Part Henbane *These incense (Spirit) are only included for traditional purposes. They are not recommended!
•SPIRITS DEPART INCENSE (caution)
1 Part Calamint1 Part Peony1 Part Mint (Spearmint)1/4 part Castor Beans *Burn out of doors to drive away all evil spirits & vain imaginings. Castor beans are poisonous!
•SPIRITS DEPART INCENSE # 2
2 Parts Fennel seed2 Parts Dill seed1/2 Part Rueanother like the above.
•SPIRIT PORTAL INCENSE
1/2 tsp Cinnamon1/2 tsp Lavenderpinch of wormwood
•SPRING SABBAT INCENSE
3 parts Frankincense2 Parts Sandalwood1 Part Benzoin1 Part Cinnamonfew drops Patchouli oilBurn during Spring & Summer Sabbat rituals.
•STUDY INCENSE
2 Parts Gum Mastic1 Part RosemarySmolder to strengthen the conscious mind for study, to develop concentration& to improve the memory.
•SUCCESS INCENSE
3 Parts Wood Aloe2 Parts Red Storax1 Part NutmegBurn for success in all undertakings. Since red storax is unavailable, substitute Frankincense or Gum Arabic.
•SUN INCENSE
3 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Myrrh1 Part Wood Aloe1/2 part Balm of Gilead1/2 Part Bay1/2 Part Carnationfew drops Ambergris Oilfew drops Musk Oilfew drops Olive OilBurn to draw the influences of the Sun & for spells involvingpromotions, friendships, healing, energy & magickal power.
•SUN INCENSE 2
3 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Sandalwood1 Part Bay1 pinch Saffronfew drops Orange OilAnother like the above.
•SUN INCENSE 3
3 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Galangal2 Parts Bay1/4 Part Mistletoe *few drops Red Winefew drops HoneyA third like the above.
•TALISMAN CONSECRATION (caution)
AlumGum ScanonyAsafoetida *Sulphur *CypressBlack Hellebore *Ash leavesBurn in an earthen dish & hold the talismans in the smoke. Not recommended.
•TALISMAN CONSECRATION 2(non-toxic)
2 Parts Frankincense1 Part Cypress1 part Ash Leaves1 Part Tobacco1 pinch Valerian1 pinch Alum1 pinch Asafoetida *Recommended - but smells!
•TAURUS INCENSE
2 parts Sandalwood2 Parts Benzoinfew drops Rose OilUse as a personal altar or household incense to increase your powers.
•TEMPLE INCENSE
3 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Myrrhfew drops Lavender Oilfew drops Sandalwood OilSmolder in the temple or "magic room", or as a general magickal incense.Also increases spirituality.
•THIEF INCENSE (to see a thief)
1 Part Crocus1 pinch AlumIn ancient Egypt this mixture was placed on a brazier & the seer stared intothe coals.
•THOUSAND-NAMED SOLAR INCS
3 Parts Frankincense1 Part Clove1/2 Part Red Sandalwood1/2 Part Sandalwood1/4 Part Orange Flowers3 pinches OrrisBurn for Solar influences.
•TRUE LOVE INCENSE
1 Part Cinnamon1 Part Orrisfew drops Patchouli oilBurn for love.
•UNIVERSAL INCENSE
3 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Benzoin1 Part Myrrh1 Part Sandalwood1 Part RosemaryBurn for all positive magickal purposes. If used for negative magickal goals, it will cancel out the spell or ritual.
•VENUS INCENSE (Planetary)
3 Parts Wood Aloe1 Part Red rose petals1 pinch crushed Red Coral (opt.)few drops Olive Oilfew drops Musk OilFew drops Ambergris OilMix well & burn for Venusian influences, such as love, healing,partnerships & rituals involving women. Coral should be omitted.
•VENUS INCENSE 2
1 part Violets1 Part Rose petals1/2 Part Olive leavesanother like the above.
•VENUS INCENSE 3
2 Parts Sandalwood2 Parts Benzoin1 Part Rosebudsfew drops Patchouli Oilfew drops Rose oilA third like the above.
•VIRGO INCENSE
1 Part Mace1 Part Cypressfew drops Patchouli OilUse as a personal altar or household incense to increase your powers.
•VISION INCENSE
3 Parts Cinquefoil3 Parts Chicory Root1 Part Clove
•VISION INCENSE 2
3 Parts Frankincense1 Part Bay1/2 part DamaniaBurn small amounts prior to psychic workings.
•VISION INCENSE 3 (caution)
1 Part Calamus1 Part fennel Root1 Part Pomegranate skin1 Part Red Sandalwood1 Part Black Poppy seed1/2 Part Henbane *Another like the above but not recommended.
•WATER INCENSE (elemental)
2 Parts Benzoin1 part Myrrh1 Part Sandalwoodfew drops Lotus bouquetfew drops Ambergris oilBurn to attract the influences of this element, as well as to developpsychism, to promote love, fertility, beauty and so on.
•WEALTH INCENSE
1 part Nutmeg1 Part Pepperwort1 pinch SaffronBurn to attract Wealth.
•WEALTH INCENSE 2
2 parts Pine needles or resin1 Part Cinnamon1 Part Galangalfew drops Patchouli Oilanother like the above.
•WEALTH INCENSE 3
2 Parts Frankincense1 Part Cinnamon1 Part Nutmeg1/2 part Clove1/2 Part Ginger1/2 part macea third like the above.
•WITCHES' SIGHT INCENSE
Gum masticJuniperPatchouliSandalwoodCinnamonfew drops Musk oilfew drops Ambergris oilFor Tarot readings, crystal ball readings, meditating.
•YULE INCENSE
2 Parts Frankincense2 Parts Pine needles or resin1 Part Cedar1 Part Juniper BerriesMix & smolder at Wiccan rites on Yule or during the winter months.

MOON OIL AND INCENSE RECIPES

Moon Oil (The Magick of Aromatherapy, O'Hara)
lily of the valley (main)
sandalwood (minor)
jasmine (minor)
camphor (trace)
Moon Oil (Formulary and Spellbook, Tarotstar)
1/2 oz. light vegetable oil
1/2 oz. camphorated oil
1/2 oz. palmachristi oil
1/2 oz. wisteria oil
1/2 dram myrrh oil
1/2 dram lotus
oil color: lavender blue
Full Moon oil
3 parts rose oil
1 part jasmine oil
1 part sandalwood oil
Full Moon Oil
4 parts gardenia oil
2 parts lotus oil
1 part jasmine oil
Full Moon Ritual Incense (Incense, Oils and Brews, Cunningham)
2 parts sandalwood powder
2 parts frankincense resin
1/2 part gardenia petals, dried
1/4 part rose petals, dried
few drops ambergris oil
Full Moon Ritual Incense (ibid.)
3 parts gardenia petals
2 parts frankincense
1 part rose petals
1/2 part orris root
few drops sandalwood oil
Full Moon Incense
2 parts orris root
2 parts lavender
2 parts myrrh
2 parts calamus
3 drops jasmine oil
3 drops rose oil
3 drops gardenia oil
Moon Bath Salts (Galenorn)
1 cup salt
8 drops sandalwood oil
8 drops lotus oil
1/8 tsp. powdered orris root
Mix. Use 1/2 cup per bath.
Moon Brew (Cunningham)
Set a silver bowl filled with water out on the night of a full moon just as it rises (which will be at sunset). Allow the water to soak up Lunar rays all night. Just before dawn, arise and retrieve the water. Place in an eathen jug and cork tightly. (Never expose to the rays of the sun). Add to baths for love, to attune with spiritual planes or prior to Lunar rituals; anoint money to increase wealth; touch to brow to promote psychic awareness.
Moon Goddess Ointment (Cunningham)
5 drops sandalwood oil
3 drops lemon oil
1 drop rose oil
1/4 cup grated beeswax
1/4 cup vegetable oil
Melt oil and wax together, cool slightly and stir in essential oils.Pour into a heatproof container. Anoint yourself to attune with the Goddess of the Moon and during Full Moon rituals.

Lavender Mint Tea - Recipe

Lavender Mint Tea - Recipe
Excerpted from Excerpted from 500 Treasured Country Recipes, by Martha Storey.
Simple Solution
Lavender adds a pleasant but not too flowery contrast to the sweetness of mint in this herbal tea that is refreshing hot or cold. There are teas for all occasions: for morning, afternoon, and bedtime, teas to soothe, and teas to stimulate. In recent years, our appreciation of tea has expanded to include herbal tisanes (some of which are centuries old) and a wide array of green teas, barks, and spices. Taking a break for tea or making a pot to share with a companion is somehow very relaxing.
Lavender Mint Tea
1 teaspoon fresh lavender flowers or 1/2 teaspoon dried lavender flowers
1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves or 2 teaspoons dried mint
1 cup boiling water
1. In a teapot, combine the lavender flowers and mint. Pour boiling water over the mixture; steep 5 minutes.Yield: 1 cup
Variation: For more interesting blends, add rosemary, lemon balm or lemon verbena, and rose geranium.
Three ways to Make Iced Tea Brewed Tea.
Make tea approximately double strength and steep only 5 minutes. Pour into a pitcher over an equal amount of ice. (If you are using a glass pitcher, let the tea cool before pouring it in.) If you sweeten the tea while it is hot, you'll need only half as much sugar.
Refrigerator Tea. Follow the procedure for sun tea, except let the mixture brew in the refrigerator overnight. This method has two advantages: When it's done, it's already cold, and no matter how long it sits, it doesn't get cloudy.
Sun Tea. In a glass jar or pitcher, place 1 teaspoon of loose tea or 1 tea bag per pint or tap water (with sugar, if you wish). Cover and set in the sun for 1 hour or so. Timing is not critical - because the water doesn't boil, the tea will not get bitter.

Jasmine Tea - Brewing Pearl Jasmine

Jasmine Tea - Brewing Pearl Jasmine
Adapted from The Green Tea User’s Manual,by Helen Gustafson (Clarkson Potter, 2001).
Simple Solution
Jasmine tea is like champagne. It goes with almost everything, stands alone, and makes both a perfect hostess gift and a fabulous iced tea drink. The tea is made by laying fresh jasmine petals atop the tea leaves, then tea leaves atop more petals, and so on. Up to six layers of blossoms alternating with tea leaves are used to create the highest- quality jasmines, using flowers picked at their aromatic peak. When the jasmine scent is fully merged with the leaves, the petals are removed, and the tea carefully dried again. Learn how best to brew this divine full-leaf tea:
Note that jasmine "pearls" are individual tea leaves are rolled by hand into tiny balls - each its own little world of flavor.
1. Place enough pearls to cover the bottom of the cup with a single layer.
2. Start heating about 2 to 3 cups of cold, filtered water until you get Shrimp Eyes (140-160F.) When these tiny bubbles cover the bottom of the pan, pour the water into the guywan.
3. Cover and wait about a minute until the pearls begin to open, then watch as they settle, stroking the liquid occasionally with the lid.
5. In 2 to 3 minutes your first sip is ready.

Spa Cuisine: Arthritis Relief Tea - recipe

Spa Cuisine: Arthritis Relief Tea - recipe
Adapted from Natural Hand Care by Norma Pasekoff Weinberg (Storey Books, 1998).
Simple Solution
This pleasant-tasting, simple to make tea contains two arthritis-busting herbs: devil's claw, from the Kalahari Desert, seems to be especially helpful for rheumatic complaints, with anti-inflammatory and mild analgesic properties with a cortisone-like action for stiff joints. Celery seed helps to counter acid in the blood. Be sure to share this recipe with your friends or parents who may be arthritis sufferers.
INGREDIENTS PER ONE-CUP SERVING
1/2 to 1 teaspoon dried rhizome of devil's claw, crushed
1 teaspoon celery seed
1 cup boiling spring water
1. Boil the herbs in the spring water for 15 minutes. Strain.
2. Drink 2 cups per day. Keep it up for a month to judge if it is effective in reducing your arthritis pain.
CAUTION: This tea is not suggested during pregnancy or for those with gastric or duodenal ulcers.

Sweet Potato Hash Browns

Sweet Potato Hash Browns - RecipeBy the Care2 Staff.
Simple Solution
If you like the robust flavor and simple preparation of hash browned potatoes for breakfast, but you‘d like more nourishment and fiber than the usual version, then this recipe is for you! Sweet potatoes offer healthy anti-oxidant beta-carotene along with lots of good-quality fiber, so they are a healthier choice than white potatoes. And the down-home flavor of this recipe just can’t be beat. While sweet potato hash browns are a natural pairing with eggs, some of us love them so much they show up at the dinner table, too: this is a side dish with lots of appeal. Here’s how to make them:
INGREDIENTS
2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup onions, diced
1 garlic clove, minced
3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and grated coarsely
Salt and freshly-ground black pepper, to taste
1. Heat the oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet and fry onions over medium high heat until beginning to soften, about 2 minutes. Add garlic and sweet potatoes, season to taste with salt and pepper, and cook 10 to 15 minutes, until potatoes are cooked through and crispy. Some folks stir the potatoes as they cook to keep them loose and separate, while others allow them to form a cake, which they flip halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Both ways are good.
Serves 4.

Baked Apple Pancakes

Baked Apple Pancake - RecipeAdapted from Mom’s Big Book of Baking, by Lauren Chattman (Harvard Common Press, 2001).
Simple Solution
This sumptuous breakfast treat is simpler to make and serve than griddle cakes. The batter can be mixed in the food processor, and the whole thing comes out of the oven at once: no slaving away over a hot stove while the hordes clamor for their share! Egalitarian--and completely delicious. Caramelized apples and tender cake make a fabulous combination, and the presentation is pretty, a factor if you have guests.
INGREDIENTS
1/2 (1/4 cup) stick unsalted butter
1 1/4 pounds firm, tart apples (about 3 medium), such as Granny Smith, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 large eggs
1/2 cup whole or lowfat milk
1/2 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon saltConfectioner’s sugar

1. Preheat oven to 425F. Melt butter over medium-high heat in an ovenproof 10-inch skillet. Add apples, granulated sugar, and cinnamon and cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to brown and most of the juices have evaporated, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove skillet from heat.
2. Combine eggs, milk, flour, and salt in a food processor and process until smooth. (This can also be done with an electric mixer or by hand with a whisk.)

3. Spread the browned apples evenly across the bottom of the pan. Pout the batter over the apples. Place the skillet in the oven and bake until the pancake is golden and puffed, 18 to 20 minutes.

4. Remove the pan from the oven and let the pancake rest in the pan for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with confectioner’s sugar, cut into wedges, and serve immediately.

Serves 4-6.

Helpful Hints-Be sure to use an all-metal ovenproof skillet to make this pancake; plastic or rubber handles will melt!

Gingerbread Pancakes

Gingerbread Pancakes - RecipeAdapted from The Tassajara Recipe Book, by Edward Espe Brown (Shambhala, 2000).
Simple Solution
Something about the smell of gingerbread sums up the spicy, warming spirit of the winter holidays--but usually we serve gingerbread as a dessert (and often after a heavy festive meal). Now you can have gingerbread for breakfast, in the form of these tender, delectable pancakes.
Whip up a batch for your holiday revellers and get everyone off to a good start. Serve them plain, or with maple syrup, yogurt, toasted pecans, or fresh fruit. What a lovely way to start a holiday--or any day!
INGREDIENTS
2 cups flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon dried ginger OR 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
2 cups buttermilk
1/4 cup molasses
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/4 cup canola or safflower oil or melted butter
1. Combine flour, baking powder, spices, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat eggs and whisk in the remaining ingredients. Combine wet and dry ingredients and mix well.
2. Oil a medium-hot griddle or frying pan--water tossed on surface jumps and spatters--and ladle about 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot surface for each pancake. Let the first die cook for 3-4 minutes (bubbles form and pop on the top and the shine disappears). Turn once and cook on the second side briefly to finish.
Serves 4 to 6.

Adapted from The Tassajara Recipe Book, by Edward Espe Brown (Shambhala, 2000). COpyright (c) 2000 by Edward Espe Brown. Reprpinted by permission of Shambhala

Lemon Juice - Kitchen Cupboard Beauty Tips

Simple Solution
The refreshing, uplifting fragrance of lemon is such a great antidote to the winter blahs. But lemon juice does more than give us a much-needed aromatherapy pick-me-up: its all-natural beautifying properties have been relied upon by Wise Ones throughout the ages.
Find out how lemon can be put to work for you--to give bounce to and shine to hair, lighten age spots or discoloration, smooth your feet, and make your skin look fresher and younger. Here’s how.
Lemon is rich in fruit acids that will gently remove dead skin cells and bleach darkened or discolored areas. We recommend you only use fresh-squeezed juice, not the bottled stuff, which contains anti-oxidizing chemicals that are harmful to the skin.
Discontinue using any of these formulas if you experience discomfort or sensitivity.
Here are our lovely, lively lemon beauty tips:
1. To lighten discolored elbows: cut a lemon in half and place one elbow in each half for approximately ten minutes. Lemon’s acids will gently break down the dark patches of skin so they may be washed away.
2. To exfoliate dead skin and diminish the appearance of freckles and age spots, gently rub a cut lemon and 1/2 teaspoon sugar granules over the skin for a few minutes. Repeat at least once a week until the darkened areas fade.
3. Another way to lighten age spots: simply sit with a slice of lemon applied directly to the area for ten minutes. Repeat once a week until spots fade.
4. Lemon hair conditioner: Mix the juice of one lemon with one cup warm water and apply to hair. Allow to remain for a few minutes, then rinse. This will add fresh bounce and shine.
5. Dandruff treatment: Mix a few tablespoons of fresh lemon with warm olive oil and rub gently into scalp. Allow to remain for 15 minutes, then shampoo and rinse as usual.
6. For smooth, pretty feet: In a foot bath, combine 1 cup of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/4 cup milk and enough water to fill the basin. (You may also add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for fragrance, if you like.) Soak feet for 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Do this once a week for several weeks for noticeably softer, smoother feet.
7. Astringent toner for oily skin: Combine the following--2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons vodka, 1 tablespoon distilled water, 1 teaspoon witch hazel. Apply with clean cloth or cotton balls to skin, then rinse. Caution: do not apply to broken skin, as it will sting! This formula will keep in the refrigerator for a week.
8. Lemon Juice Astringent SimpleSimple squeeze some lemon juice into a glass jar, and dab some onto your face every morning, let it set for 10 minutes, then wash it off with warm water followed by a moisturizer. Fresh lemon juice will last for 4-5 days.

Hot Spiced Oranges

Hot Spiced Oranges
- RecipeBy Cait Johnson, Assistant Producer, Care2 Healthy Living Channels.
Simple Solution
The marvelous French writer Colette had a recipe for spiced orange wine that was perfect for those deceptive Parisian March afternoons that fool us into thinking Spring is here--only to douse us in icy rain or even hail, bringing shivers to even the most robust.
This sunny, warming, fragrant recipe produces the same heartening effect as Colette’s favorite remedy for early-spring whimpers, chasing away the blues and the flus! It’s also easy to make.
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup dried apricots, cut in half
1 cup boiling water
5 tablespoons dark rum or good-quality brandy
3 whole cloves
2 small pieces fresh orange zest
1 3-inch cinnamon stickpinch of ground cinnamon
small piece of star anise
5 tablespoons sugar
5 navel oranges
1. Soak apricots in boiling water for half an hour, then place both water and apricots in a saucepan along with the rum, cloves, zest, cinnamon stick, ground cinnamon, and star anise.
2. Sprinkle mixture with sugar. Place saucepan over medium heat and bring to a simmer, stirring until sugar dissolves. Continue simmering until apricots are tender, around 8 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Slice a thin slice off the top and bottom of each orange. Stand each orange upright and use a sharp knife to slice off the peel in thick strips. Slice each orange crosswise in 1/4-inch slices and place them in a large bowl.
4. Bring apricot mixture back to a simmer and then pour mixture over orange slices. Serve immediately.
Serves 6. Helpful HintsIf you will be giving these oranges to children, remove the spices before serving.