The Herbs
The Herbs listed below are the most commonly used herbs in Puerto Rico and the United States for medicinal and spiritual use. The criteria for an herb to make it into this book is it had to be used in Puerto Rican traditional healing, American herbalism, and have a religious, magical, spiritual use. It also had to be easily obtainable by the novice practitioner and be somewhat familiar. Buying a bunch of herbs from a botanica and not knowing what to do with them is a waste of money and is bad for the environment. I recommend you pick up a copy of “Earth and Spirit: Medicinal Plants and Healing Lore from Puerto Rico” by Maria Benedetti. That book primarily interviews traditional Puerto Rican herbalists and gives a wealth of information on treating conditions with herbal remedies. It is not a magic book. Ms. Benedetti also leads retreats in Puerto Rico and has an apprenticeship program for those wishing to study with her. The herbs will be listed as “Topical Use” if they are poisonous to ingest or could be dangerous.
Next I want to add that the herbs used in African IFA and Afro Cuban traditions of Santeria and Lucumi have an extensive materia medica and is not the subject of this book. This book’s goal is to teach you how to make simple herbal preparations with commonly used herbs and oils. The word “Osain '' means “the divine Orisha of plants” and he is the Lord of all herbal medicine in IFA. We do have Osain in Vodou and he is an Ogou, Ogou Osanj. Ogou Badagri is also an herbal warrior and is considered to be a Taino Loa. Other Loas like Gran Bwa and Simbi Makaya are herbal sorcerers that can cast deadly Petro magic, and other fates worse than death. Their Vodou is no joke. Puerto Rican Vodou like all the other traditions can heal and it can kill. And you have the right to defend yourself. Puerto Rican Vodou is the “coolest” of the Vodou traditions in the Caribbean. It is a watery tradition and uses leaves, plants, roots, and barks to accomplish it’s magic more so than blood.
So the lore goes on and on. This introduction to Sanse is meant to get you going as fast as possible by accessing commonly used plants and oils. Enough to bring healing and spiritual protection. I recommend that if you are going to be an herbal warrior you consider taking an online course to give you a clinical understanding of herbs. Remember that Sancistas are proficient at treating both physical and spiritual conditions with herbs. Mastering the science and art of herbalism is a lifelong study. But if you obtain the wisdom of the forest, healing plants, and work with the Loa that govern them you will become a spiritual badass. And that’s only the beginning.
Aloe (Topical Use)
Aloe vera
Medicinal: Speed the healing of burns and wounds, can be used in the treatment for insight bites, eczema, dry skin and poison ivy
Spiritual: Aloe is used as an amulet against accidents and misfortunes, especially around the home. It is also used for love and beauty and all spells related to lunar energies.
Do not take it without checking with the doctor. Internal you should be avoided during pregnancy and breast-feeding. This plant could cause diarrhea or worse when ingested.
Angelica Root
Angelica archangelica
Medicinal: Angelica is used for heartburn, intestinal gas (flatulence), loss of appetite (anorexia), arthritis, circulation problems, "runny nose" (respiratory catarrh), nervousness, plague, and trouble sleeping (insomnia
Spiritual: ward off evil, to break jinxes, to bring good luck, to ensure good health and wellbeing.
Generally recognized as safe.
Anise
Pimpinella anisum
Medicinal: Abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea, flatulence, and intestinal ailments.
Spiritual: Protection and purification. Fresh Anise wards off evil spirits and also averts the evil eye. Use it with bay leaves in a spiritual bath. The seed can be combined with leaves in a spiritual bath to call for spirits aid in magical operations.
Anise seed
Pimpinella anisum
Medicinal: Anise is used for upset stomach, intestinal gas, runny nose, and as an expectorant to increase productive cough, as a diuretic to increase urine flow, and as an appetite stimulant.
Spiritual: Increases psychic abilities, ward off the evil eye.
In the coriander family may cause allergic reactions. May low blood sugar generally but recognized as safe.
Annatto
Bixa orellana L.
Medicinal: The seed and leaf are used to make medicine. People take annatto for diabetes, diarrhea, fevers, fluid retention, heartburn, malaria, and hepatitis. They also use it as an antioxidant and bowel cleanser. Annatto is sometimes put directly on the affected area to treat burns and vaginal infections and to repel insects.
Spiritual: It also stimulates courage, and is a good ingredient in love spells where part of the problem is that your target has issues of shyness or lack of decisiveness or courage. It is possibly staining, so take care when using it as you would tumeric or other coloring herbs or spices, if you need stealth.
Generally recognized as safe except for pregnancy and breast-feeding.
Arrowroot
Maranta arundinacea
Medicinal: People use starch taken from the root and rhizome (underground stem) to make medicine. Arrowroot is used as a nutritional food for infants and for people recovering from illness. It is also used for stomach and intestinal disorders, including diarrhea.
Spiritual: fragrant money-drawing and luck
Generally recognized as safe.
Arnica (Topical Use)
Arnica montana
Medicinal: Relieves aches and pains. Can be bought diluted or concentrated. If bought in concentrated oil must be diluted by a carrier oil of choice. Precaution! Do not put on broken skin.
Spiritual: To create boundaries, cope with trauma, or ease disappointments.
Must be diluted, do not put on broken skin do not ingest
Ashwagandha
Withania somnifera
Medicinal: Used as a tonic, an aphrodisiac, and a sedative this herb is also called Indian ginseng. It's used in Ayurveda to treat cerebral function in the elderly. It can also be used for treating weakness in the knees and helps with the joints.
Spiritual: Sleep and memory aid. Sexual function and hormonal balance. Calms nerves. Strengthens spiritual endurance. Protects the aura and energy body.
May increase thyroid hormone levels. Should be avoided for people with thyroid conditions or on medications
Balsam Apple
Momordica balsamina
Medicinal: A liniment is made by adding the pulped fruit (without the seeds) to almond oil. This is useful for piles, burns, chapped hands, etc. The pulp is also used as a poultice.
Spiritual: Removes spirit attachments in spiritual baths.
Abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, fever, and, with excessive amounts.
Basil
Ocimum basilicum
Medicinal: Prevents cellular damage. Relieves vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Good for the digestive system. Also fights acne and itchy skin.
Spiritual: Spiritual tonic and powerful herb in magic. It brings balance and harmony. It can bring you wealth if you put it in your pocket. Also aids in matters of sexuality.
Generally recognized as safe if not allergy
Bay Laurel (Topical Use)
Laurus nobilis
Medicinal: Oil of bay, the fixed oil expressed from the berries, is used to treat arthritic aches and pains, lower back pain, earaches, and sore muscles and sprains. Consuming Bay Laurel can be dangerous; it is a strong stimulant and has narcotic properties. If you consume it you’ll have increased blood pressure and the likelihood of vomiting so this plant should be used medicinally for remedies of bruises.
Spiritual: Bay Leaves are extremely useful in divination, clairvoyance, and inducing visions. Burning a bay leaf can cleanse the energy of ritual space, banish negativity, and ward off evil. Bay leaves mixed with sandalwood can be burned to remove curses.
Interferes with blood sugar control should not be used if you have diabetes.
Black Nightshade (Topical Use)
Solanum nigrum
Some people apply black nightshade directly to the skin for a skin condition called psoriasis, hemorrhoids, and deep skin infections (abscesses). The bruised, fresh leaves are put on the skin to treat swelling (inflammation), burns, and ulcers.
Spiritual: Black nightshade occupies a liminal space between the world of the quick and the dead and is possessed of chthonic power, travel to the underworld. Black nightshade is also used in offertory rites for the spirits of the dead.
Poisonous and causes irregular heartbeat, trouble breathing, dizziness, twitching in arms and legs, paralysis and death.
Burdock Root
Arctium
Medicinal: Primary use is a blood purifier. It is a diuretic and laxative. Herbalists use it to treat liver disorders. Can also treat psoriasis, acne, and other skin conditions.
Spiritual: Helps let go of victim mentality. Wards off negativity if casted around your home. Powerful herbs for protection and healing.
Slows blood clotting should be a little avoided with bleeding disorders
Calendula
Calendula officinalis
Medicinal: Calendula flower is used to prevent muscle spasms, start menstrual periods, and reduce fever. It is also used for treating sore throats, menstrual cramps, and duodenal ulcers.
Spiritual: Brings inspiration, optimism, and good vibes. Dispels negativity. Calendula is used to comfort those who are nervous and prone to fear, as well as those who have gone through a profound shock or trauma to the system. It attracts success.
May cause a rash If allergic reaction but it’s generally recognized and safe.
Camphor (Topical Use)
Cinnamomum camphora
Medicinal: Can soothe inflammation, insect bites, itching, rashes, and acne. It is mostly used for sprains, and muscular aches and pains. It is the most active ingredient in my favorite salve Tiger Balm. It also has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
Spiritual: Psychic protection. It can be put in a floor wash to ward off negativity
Do not use undiluted camphor on the skin it can be irritating and unsafe. Do not apply to broken skin is unsafe when taking by mouth cancer can cause side effects including death. Can cause seizures. AbsolutelyDo not ingest.
Cannabis
Cannabis sativa
Medicinal: Cannabis fights cancer cells. Aids in long term memory function although it impairs short term memory when used. Can treat severe stomach and digestive disorders such as crohn's disease. Help with glaucoma. Eases nausea due to chemotherapy and helps with appetite. Also reduces chronic pain and neuropathy. Best used as an edible for medicinal purposes in small doses to reduce the chance of a panic attack. People panic from using too much cannabis because it affects the amygdala, your flight or fight response in the brain. Do not go to the hospital if you overdose you will not die. Drink orange juice if you do. There is a link between cannabis use and the onset of schizophrenia in pre-disposed people that scientists have not been able to figure out yet.
Spiritual: One of the five teaching plants given to mankind from the gods. It is a visionary plant used by Yogis in meditation to become one with the divine. When used during sexual activity it can dramatically increase sensations and bring powerful orgasms. Can leave you vulnerable to negative influences so it must be used in a spiritually cleaned, protected, and safe environment.
The drug is illegal in certain states. There might be an allergic reaction such as a rash. This plant is intoxicating. Can cause anxiety if taken in large doses. Should not be used in conjunction with Valerian or within 24 hours of use because it can intensify the intoxicating effects and be unpleasant.
Cardamom
Elettaria cardamomum
Medicinal: Antioxidant. Anti Inflammatory. Good for heart and digestive function. Good for metabolism. Also boosts men’s sexual health.
Spiritual: Can inflame lust and good for men's sexual health and well being.
Generally recognized as safe but might cause intestinal spasms avoid if you have irritable bowel syndrome.
Catnip
Nepeta cataria
Medicinal: Catnip can be used for treating colds. It brings warmth to the body and is good for treating fevers. It is a nervine and tonic. It makes cats crazy but has the opposite effect on humans. It can be used in tea for relaxation and helping with sleep disorders.
Spiritual: Catnip helps in magic. Calls good spirits and can be used to draw good luck.
Generally recognized as safe
Cayenne Pepper
Capsicum annuum
Medicinal: This is a very powerful stimulant it has the ability to irritate the skin. It can treat severe colds and is best used if you feel like you are starting to get sick. Put a sprinkle of Cayenne Pepper in hot water with a splash of lemon juice and honey to stimulate body heat. It increases circulation and makes you sweat.
Spiritual: Acceptance. Help resistant people embrace change. Wards off evil.
Keep away from your eyes.
Chamomile
Matricaria chamomilla
Medicinal: This is one of the most pleasant sedatives available and one of the safest. It is completely harmless and will relax you for a good night's sleep.
Spiritual: Chamomile is very powerful! It can be used to attract money. It is also used in spiritual warfare fighting against curses and black magic. It’s purification and protective properties remove curses that might be cast against you. Use it in a spiritual bath with other herbs to banish negativity.
Generally recognized as safe unless there is an allergy
Cinnamon
Cinnamomum verum
Medicinal: Coveted by the Egyptians, and in use for thousands of years, Cinnamon treats a variety of illnesses. Good for stomach and digestive issues. It relieves gas and also works to stop vomiting.
Spiritual: Overcome anxiety and fear Cinnamon razors spiritual vibrations eights and healing drives money Money and love
Generally recognized as safe but may cause low blood sugar and interact with certain medications
Clove
Syzygium aromaticum
Medicinal: Used as an antimicrobial to help kill bacteria. Also used as a pain reliever for conditions such as toothaches and muscle pain. Can treat digestive upset and relieve respiratory conditions such as a cough and asthma.
Spiritual: Aphrodisiac. Used for psychic enhancement. It attracts riches and drives away hostile and negative forces. It also brings comfort to those who have experienced loss.
Generally recognized as safe
Comfrey (Topical Use)
Symphytum
Medicinal: Used in a variety of treatments including bruises, burns, sprains, and broken bones. It can be poisonous if ingested.
Spiritual: Apply to the body or carry it to ensure safety during travel. You can also put some in your bags to make sure they are not stolen.
Can be poisonous if ingested.
Cumin
Cuminum cyminum
Medicinal may help with diabetes improve cholesterol promote weight loss.
Spiritual use for protection fidelity to attract a lover.
Echinacea
Echinacea purpurea
Medicinal: Good for the immune lymphatic and respiratory and reproductive systems it’s a blood purifier taken internally echinacea stimulates production of natural defenses in the immune system good for treating blood poisoning acute bacterial and viral infections as well as poison ivy and venomous bites.
Spiritual: Welcome change and release old patterns echinacea was used by American Indians as an offering to spirits to ensure the strength of spells
Should not be taken by people with tuberculosis, HIV, leukemia, multiple sclerosis, lupus, and autoimmune disease.
Elderflower
Sambucus
Medicinal: Elder flowers have an anti-inflammatory effect on the upper respiratory system when under stress from colds, flu, or sinusitis.
Spiritual: Elder is one of those plants surrounded by mystery, magic, and superstition. If you are a Harry Potter fan, you’ll know that a wand made of elder had the most powerful magic! Elderflower wards off spiritual attacks of every kind. It fights against sorcery and is highly useful in spiritual warfare. Elder can be used at weddings for good luck. Do not burn Elderflowers, gypsies believe it’s bad luck.
Do not use high dosages. Could cause digestive upset or rash if allergic reaction.
Fennel
Foeniculum vulgare
Medicinal: Freshens breath, digestive aid, gastrointestinal problems, flatulence
Spiritual: Aids in Communication
Should be avoided in high doses during pregnancy.
Garlic
Allium sativum
Medicinal: The healing properties for garlic are too many to name. Of course it’s good for helping with colds and flu’s relieve chest congestion. It's a diuretic and also good for treating digestive problems. If you feel like you’re getting ready to get sick by fresh clothes I’ve got garlic and she won one of the bulbs.
Spiritual: Protection and banishment. Wards off evil.
Garlic is generally recognized as safe
Ginger
Zingiber officinale
Medicinal: Improves digestive and cardiovascular health. Fights colds and flus.
Ginger is actually part of the plant family that includes turmeric and cardamom, which may explain why the health benefits of ginger are so extraordinary. Stimulant and aphrodisiac. Boosts male virility and helps with sexual dysfunction.
Spiritual: Personal power. Sex magic. Healing. Brings prosperity and good luck. Promotes good relationships. Unity in the home.
Generally recognized as safe.
Goldenseal
Hydrastis canadensis
Medicinal: Excellent agent for digestive problems such as gastritis peptic ulcer and inflamed colon. Goldenseal should not be taken for a prolonged period of time. Spiritual: Brings mental clarity of past, present, and future.
This herb should not be used in cases of kidney disease including kidney failure. It also should be avoided in acute inflammation of the stomach.
Holy Basil / Tulsi
Ocimum tenuiflorum
Medicinal: Treats headaches. Calms the stomach and nervous system. It's a very important herb in Ayurvedic medicine. It's an all purpose herb that blends well with all others.
Spiritual: Balances the energy body, brings joy, positivity, and hope. Wards off negative energy and people.
Generally recognized as safe But it’s not recommended for people taking medications that slow blood clotting.
Lavender
Lavandula
Medicinal: Lavender is believed to have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to heal minor burns and bug bites. Useful for treating anxiety, insomnia, depression, and restlessness. Some studies suggest that consuming lavender as a tea can help digestive issues such as vomiting, nausea, intestinal gas, upset stomach, and abdominal swelling. In addition to helping with digestive problems, lavender is used to help relieve pain from headaches, sprains, toothaches, and sores. Lavender is one of Nature’s most powerful medicinal plants.
Spiritual: Lavender calms the nerves. Prevents emotional outbursts and fits. Increases spiritual awareness and sensitivity.
Generally recognized as safe
Lemongrass
Cymbopogon
Spasms in the digestive tract pain, vomiting, cough, rheumatism, fever, and cold. Kills germs as an astringent.
Protection, repels evil, psychic abilities, cleansing, healing
Licorice
Glycyrrhiza glabra
Medicinal: Licorice contains constituents that are similar to natural steroids in the human body and affects the endocrine system. It’s used for upper respiratory conditions such as congestion, coughs, and bronchitis.
Spiritual: Most often used in binding spells. To restrict your enemies or gain control over a situation
Is a blood thinner and must be taken with caution. It can elevate blood pressure and and be contraindicated for people with high blood pressure
Mugwort
Artemisia vulgaris
Medicinal: Has a reputation for helping people to achieve more vivid dreams. You can put mugwort in herbal tea and drink it about two hours before you go to sleep.
Spiritual: Increased lucid dreaming and psychic awareness.
Generally recognized as safe unless there is an allergic reaction.
Nettle
Urtica dioica
Medicinal: Very useful aphrodisiac. It's been known to stop bleeding and is used for purifying the kidneys and removing toxic substances from the kidneys. Nettle can be used in the treatment of jaundice.
Spiritual: Uncrossing and jinx breaker. Protective. Used for love and luck spells.
High blood pressure, diabetes kidney disease or bleeding and clotting disorders.
Peppermint
Mentha × piperita
Medicinal: Peppermint is excellent for treating nausea, vomiting, and headaches. It’s wonderful in herbal teas and gives everything a nice crisp clean favorite flavor.
Spiritual: Treats mental, emotional, and spiritual lethargy. Uncrossing and jinx breaker.
Peppermint is generally recognized as safe.
Rosemary
Salvia rosmarinus
Medicinal: Rosemary is one of the best herbs for cooking. Rosemary can help someone who is having trouble sleeping. It’s also good for the heart and stomach. The health benefits for Rosemary are too many to name. One of my favorite herbs.
Spiritual: Improves memory, corrects disconnection between the soul and spirit.
Generally recognized as safe. Encourages menstrual bleeding or may cause miscarriage. Do not take large doses.
Sage
Salvia officinalis
Medicinal: Sage is helpful for relieving constipation. Sage works well in the treatment of ulcerated stomach, the astringent working against the ulcer.
Spiritual: Protection and purification. Fresh starts. Mental clarity. Used in banishing work.
Generally recognized as safe
Saw Palmetto
Serenoa repens
Medicinal: Excellent for men’s sexual health. It’s good for the urinary, the nervous, and digestive systems. It inhancess male sex hormones and is used to treat the bladder and prostate.
Spiritual: Healing. Protection and exorcism. Controlling passions and worn by women to keep their husbands faithful.
Generally recognized as safe.
Skullcap
Scutellaria
Medicinal: Skullcap is a sedative and antispasmodic. It is a reliable and safe nervous system tonic.
Spiritual: Recovery from spiritual assaults and attacks. Helps with nightmares and other night time disturbances.
Do not use this herb in high dosages.
Thyme
Thymus
Medicinal: Thyme is excellent for treating upset stomach. It can also help with arthritis and rheumatism.
Spiritual: Grants the ability to see spirits and other entities. Gives strength in spiritual warfare.
Might slow blood clotting. People who are allergic to oregano might be allergic to the herb.
Turmeric
Curcuma longa
Medicinal: Turmeric the main spice in the Indian dish curry is arguably the most powerful herb on the planet at fighting and potentially reversing disease. Turmeric benefits include so many healing properties especially one of its renowned healing compounds, curcumin. Arguably, the most powerful aspect of curcumin is its ability to reduce inflammation.
Spiritual: Healing. Protection and banishing magic.
Generally recognized as safe
Valerian
Valeriana officinalis
Medicinal: Regulates nerve cells and calms anxiety. Valerian root extract acts as an anti-anxiety agent. Put the herb in teas to promote sleep. Should not be used if using other sleep aids.
Spiritual: Protection and love magic. Can bring lucid dreams due to its aid in restful sleep.
Do not drive or operate machinery after taking this herb. It could cause headaches or insomnia and some people.
Yarrow
Achillea millefolium
Medicinal: Yarrow has been known to stop bleeding and assist in the healing process. It’s good for treating colds particularly with fevers.
Spiritual: Brings compassionate feelings towards others.
Generally recognized as safe
Soul Food
Avocados
Persea americana
Medicinal: One of the healthiest fat she can eat. Contains more potassium than bananas can lower cholesterol lower risk of depression improve digestion
Spiritual: Luck abundance and attraction.Grow a plant from the pit of an avocado to bring love to your home. Avocados are also an aphrodisiac! It in flames your lust Happiness wealth long life
Generally recognized as safe
Cassava / Yucca
Manihot esculenta
Medicinal: Cassava is a good source of vitamin C, thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin.
Spiritual: Love, confidence, curage
Generally recognized as safe
Coconut
Cocos nucifera
Medicinal: May have antioxidant properties may help prevent kidney stones, supports heart health, reduces blood pressure and is a great source of hydration.
Spiritual: Cleansing in spiritual bath Purification when drunk.
Some people are allergic to coconuts. Use caution.
Coffee
Coffea
Medicinal: Improves energy levels, how she burn fat, improves physical performance, contains essential nutrients, may lower risk of type two diabetes, may protect from Alzheimer’s and dementia, lower risk of Parkinson’s, protects liver, fights depression fights cancer may prevent strokes antioxidants
Spiritual: Healing properties if added to spiritual bath, remove spiritual blockages, and brings clarity.
Generally recognized as safe. Can cause elevated heartbeat if consumed in large ammounts. Or the jitters.
Chocolate
Theobroma cacao
Medicinal: Powerful source of antioxidants improves circulation, lowers blood pressure improves brain function, relieves anxiety. Especially dark chocolate.
Spiritual: Resolves conflicts in love or with enemies.
Generally recognized as safe
Honey
Honey
Medicinal: Rich in antioxidants, lowest blood pressure, improves cholesterol, can be put on a wound to slow bacterial growth, cough suppressant.
Spiritual: Aphrodisiac.
Some people have an allergic reaction. Use caution.
Horseradish
Armoracia rusticana
Medicinal: Strengthens the immune system, treats urinary tract infections, sinus infections, relieves pain and inflammation, regulates blood pressure, aids digestion.
Spiritual: Used in spiritual warfare, cleansing, drives out evil.
Lemon
Medicinal: Great source of vitamin C helps control wait, prevent kidney stones, improves digestive health, detoxifier, improve skin freshens breath,
Spiritual: Used to remove negative vibrations and cleanse objects. You can take a lemon and put it in your ritual space, or any room, leave it out. If it starts to decay quickly there’s bad juju. You need to clean and freshen the room. If there’s good energy the lemon will keep even for a couple of weeks.
Generally recognized as safe
Passionfruit
Passiflora edulis
Spiritual: Protests against the evil eye.
Generally recognized as safe
Vinegar
dilute acetic acid
Medicinal: Kills harmful bacteria, lowers blood sugar, fights diabetes, improves weight loss, lowers cholesterol.
Spiritual: Prevents magical attacks, protects against evil, can be used in spiritual warfare. Healing spells.
Can affect blood sugar. Do not take if using diabetic medications.
Sweet Potato
Ipomoea batatas
Medicinal: Great source of fiber, packed with vitamins and minerals, promotes good gut health, has antioxidants. Supports the immune system.
Spiritual: Spiritual nourishment, can be enchanting to bring love and friendship. Eat when you need to feel grounded and connected to the earth.
Generally recognized as safe
Rice
Oryza sativa
Medicinal: Stabilizes blood sugar levels, provides essential sources of vitamin B 12.
Spiritual: Protection, money, fertility, Plantains Medicinal: Useful remedy for coughs, inflamed skin and dermatitis. Can be used topically to treat insect bites and stings, eczema, and small cuts or sores. Spiritual: Excites sexual passion.
Generally recognized as safe