Peppermint - Mentha x piperita

Description: Hairy perennial with square red or pink stems the grows to 3 ft. Oval, pointed deeply toothed leaves with white flowers in midsummer.

Uses: Use leaves and stems fresh or dried. Has great cooling properties because of the high content of menthol. Used to treat gastric ailments, digestive disorders and nervous complaints.

Infusion: Used to prepare more delicate parts of plants. 3 cups of water to 1 ounce dry herb or 1½ ounce of fresh herbs; pour the freshly boiled water over herbs in a pot, cover the pot and let the herbs steep for at least 10 minutes. Strain and serve. Refrigerate unused portions, lasts up to 24 hours.

Tincture: A tincture is a good solution for long term treatment as will store for up to two years. 8 ounces of dried herb, 1½ cups of alcohol (grain alcohol like Everclear), and 4 cups of water; Chop your herbs up finely and put them in a glass jar with a good tight fitting lid. Pour the liquid over the herbs and tighten the lid. Keep the jar in a warm, dark place for 2 weeks. Shake the jar every two days. After the two weeks, strain the liquid off through cheesecloth into a clean colored glass jar and store away from heat and direct sunlight.

Medicinal uses: gastric and digestive disorders, tension, insomnia

Used in spells relating to: Psychic Ability, Visions, Healing, Sleep, Love.