Oils

WHAT’S MAGIC ABOUT ESSENTIAL OILS?

Plant-derived scented oils are powerful components of ritual and spellwork for two main reasons. First, they contain the magical energies of the plants from which they are made—the trees, shrubs, flowers, etc. that are transformed into liquid form. Plants themselves are living beings, with their own living intelligence that works in perfect harmony with nature. And of course, plants have magical properties as well, which are highly concentrated in the form of essential oils.

The same is not true for synthetic fragrance oils, which may smell quite similar to the real thing, but won’t have the natural ingredients contained in botanical oils. While many Witches have used synthetic oils with success over the past few decades, most agree that the power of true botanicals just can’t be beat.

The second “trick” that magical oils have up their sleeve is the power of scent and the effect it has on the mind. We understand this effect intuitively, as we all have favorite scents that put us in a happier or more relaxed mood. The scents of myrrh and cedarwood, for example, or a blend of lavender and clove, seem to instantly awaken something in us that’s beyond our ordinary sense of smell and put us into a different frame of mind—one that is more in touch with the invisible powers of the Universe and therefore more able to direct those powers to achieve our aims. In this way, botanical oils provide a direct tie between the natural physical world and the spiritual plane.

After all, if you can’t summon the necessary state of mind to send your intention confidently into the Universe, you’re unlikely to get the results you seek. This is why incense is such a key part of ritual and magic in Wiccan and other Pagan traditions. As the richly scented smoke wafts throughout the sacred space, it puts us in a frame of mind that is unconcerned, for the time being, with the mundane details of everyday life.

We are more able to focus on going within, connecting with our deities, our higher self, or whatever our belief systems recognize as the power that aids us in transforming our reality. Scented oils provide another way of promoting this inner focus, and magical oils–those that are blended and charged specifically for magical purposes–are arguably the most potent aromatic resources we can have at our disposal.

HOW DO I MAKE MY OWN MAGICAL OILS?

Since many essential oils can be on the pricey side, it’s best to start with just two or three single oils, which you can use individually and to make your own blends. Then you can gradually build up your collection of oils over time. You can also find plenty of quality pre-made blends, but the hands-on experience of blending your own is a great way to get more acquainted with the magical energies of the individual oils. 

Unfortunately, due to the growing popularity of essential oils in the mainstream world, many poor-quality knock-offs are being sold as “essential oils” in big box stores and elsewhere. Be sure to do some research into all companies you’re considering buying oils from, especially if you’re ordering online. That being said, essential oils sold in most health food stores are generally considered a safe bet.

This is where I buy my oils:

https://www.pipingrock.com/essential-oils-mc

The following is a website that has the magical properties of oils. It is important to keep intentions clear in your oil making by making sure the oils correspond with that intent.

http://www.tryskelion.com/herbs_magickal_oil_correspondences.html

WHICH MAGICAL OILS ARE BEST FOR BEGINNERS TO START WITH?

The answer to this is different for each person, so you’ll need to use your intuition. If you love the scent of lemon or lavender, these are good (and affordable) places to start. And if there’s a scent you truly dislike, then by all means avoid it! If you’re able to sample tester bottles in a shop, this is a great way to get a feel for which oils you’re likely to work best with. And as always, you can set an intention that the best oils for you to bring into your life at this time will be revealed to you. Then, just be open to receiving the message, and you’ll have your answer when the time is right!

A History of Magical Oils

Author Sandra Kynes, who wrote Mixing Essential Oils for Magic, says “Aromatic plants in the form of oil and incense were elements of religious and therapeutic practices in early cultures worldwide. In addition, anointment with perfumes and fragrant oils was an almost universal practice.”

In some folk magic traditions, such as Hoodoo, oils can be used for both anointing people and objects, such as candles. In some magical systems, such as various forms of Hoodoo, candle dressing oils are also used to anoint the skin, so many oils are blended in a way that is skin-safe. This way, they can be used for dressing candles and charms, but also can be worn on your body.

How to Make Your Own Blends

While many commercial vendors would have you believe that there’s some Super Secret Magical Method for blending oils, it’s actually pretty simple. First, determine your intent — whether you’re creating a money oil to bring you prosperity, a love oil to boost your romantic encounters, or a ritual oil to use in ceremonies.

Once you’ve determined your intent, assemble the essential oils called for in the recipes. In a clean container, add 1/8 Cup of your base oil — this should be one of the following:

• Safflower
• Grape seed
• Jojoba
• Sunflower
• Almond

(I have never used a base since I annoint objects with my oils. However, by all means, do if you prefer it.)

Using an eyedropper, add the essential oils in the recipes. Be sure to follow the recommended proportions. To mix, don’t stir… swirl. Swish the essential oils into the base oil by swirling in a clockwise direction. Finally, consecrate your oils if your tradition requires it – and not all do. Make sure you store your oil blends in a place away from heat and moisture. Write the date on the label, and use within six months.

There are a number of ways you can use your oils in a ritual setting. They are often rubbed on candles for use in spellwork – this blends the powerful energies of the oil with the magical symbolism of the candle’s color and the energy of the flame itself.

Sometimes, oils are used to anoint the body. If you are blending an oil to use for this purpose, be sure that you’re not including any ingredients that are irritating to the skin. Some essential oils, such as frankincense and clove, will cause a reaction in sensitive skin and should only be used very sparingly, and diluted heavily before use. Oils applied to the body bring the wearer the energies of the oil — an Energy Oil will give you a much-needed boost, a Courage Oil will give you strength in the face of adversity.

Finally, crystals, amulets, talismans and other charms may be anointed with the magical oil of your choice. This is a great way to turn a simple mundane item into an item of magical power and energy.

Magical Oil Recipes

Blessing Oil

This oil can be blended together in advance and used for any ritual requiring blessing, anointing or consecration oil. Use this blend of sandalwood, patchouli, and other scents when welcoming guests into a ritual circle, for anointing a new baby, consecrating magical tools, or any number of other magical purposes.

To make Blessing Oil, use 1/8 Cup base oil of your choice. Add the following:

• 5 drops Sandalwood
• 2 drops Camphor
• 1 drop Orange
• 1 drop Patchouli

As you blend the oils, visualize your intent, and take in the aroma. Know that this oil is sacred and magical. Label, date, and store in a cool, dark place.

Gratitude Oil

Looking for a special oil blended for a gratitude ritual? Mix up a batch of this oil that features oils associated with thankfulness and gratitude, including rose and vetiver. 

To make Gratitude Oil, use 1/8 Cup base oil of your choice. Add the following:

• 5 drops Rose
• 2 drops Vetiver
• 1 drop Agrimony
• A pinch of ground cinnamon

Label, date, and store in a cool, dark place.

Money Oil

Blend this oil up ahead of time, and use in rituals calling for abundance, prosperity, good fortune, or financial success. Money spells are popular in many magical traditions, and you can incorporate this into your workings to bring prosperity your way.

To make Money Oil, use 1/8 Cup base oil of your choice. Add the following:

• 5 drops Sandalwood
• 5 drops Patchouli
• 2 drops Ginger
• 2 drops Vetiver
• 1 drop Orange

As you blend the oils, visualize your intent, and take in the aroma. Label, date, and store in a cool, dark place.

PLEASE REMEMBER THAT SOME ESSENTIAL OILS ARE HAZARDOUS TO ANIMALS!!

The following is a list of known oils that could harm your pets if ingested or come in direct contact with them. For their safety, it is best to keep all oils out of the reach of your pets and familiars.

Essential Oils Harmful to Cats

Oils that are harmful to cats include, but are not limited to:

• Wintergreen
• Sweet birch
• Citrus (d-limonene)
• Pine
• Ylang ylang
• Peppermint
• Cinnamon
• Pennyroyal
• Clove
• Eucalyptus
• Tea tree (melaleuca)
• Thyme
• Oregano
• Lavender

Essential Oils Harmful to Dogs

Oils that are harmful to dogs include, but are not limited to:

• Cinnamon
• Citrus (d-limonene)
• Pennyroyal
• Peppermint
• Pine
• Sweet birch
• Tea tree (melaleuca)
• Wintergreen
• Ylang ylang
• Anise
• Clove
• Thyme
• Juniper
• Yarrow
• Garlic

What Are the Symptoms of Poisoning in Pets?

Generally speaking, essential oils and animals do not mix. But how can you tell if your critter is having a bad reaction?

There are several common symptoms of poisoning in pets. A good rule of thumb as a pet owner is to stay alert if you see any changes of behavior in your animal. Here are some other symptoms to watch out for:

• The smell of essential oils on their fur, skin, breath or vomit
• Difficulty breathing
• Drooling
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Difficulty walking or stumbling
• Muscle tremors
• Pawing at the mouth or face
• Redness or burns on their lips, tongue, skin or gums
• Vomiting

What Should I Do If My Pet Shows These Symptoms?

Essential oils and animals can be a harmful combination. Just like poisoning in humans, the key to reacting to poisoning in your pet is to act fast. Don’t delay contacting a professional. Seek medical treatment immediately. Call your veterinarian, or contact the Pet Poison Helpline at (800) 213-6680.

If you can’t reach your vet or their office is closed, bring your cat or dog to an animal emergency medical center. The sooner the better. Acting fast will improve your pet’s prognosis!

Be sure to also follow these tips for essential oils and animals:

1. If the oil is on your pet’s fur or skin, wash it off immediately.
2. Don’t give your pet any treatments without a vet’s approval.
3. Take the oil with you to the vet so they know what they’re dealing with.

How to Keep Your Pet Safe

Michelson Found Animals doesn’t recommend using any essential oils for pets, especially when it comes to direct application to an animal’s body, or diffusing the oils into the air. And if you do wish to use some, only do so with a vet’s approval. Our view on essential oils and animals is that they’re likely to do more harm than good, so better to be safe than sorry.

To avoid poisoning, keep these oils out of reach of your pets. Store them in secure containers that your dog or cat cannot get to. 

Essential oils are also commonly used as calming aids. An animal-friendly alternative is Canna-Pet. This company offers soothers in several forms, including capsules, treats and liquids. These are helpful whenever your pet might be particularly stressed out, such as during fireworks, travel or trips to the vet.