Witchy Wednesday - Damiana
Witchy Wednesday - Damiana The Damiana is a small flowering shrub native to the Americas and the Caribbean, Damiana is a relatively small, woody shrub that produces small, aromatic flowers. It blossoms in early to late summer and is followed by fruits that taste similar to figs. The shrub is said to have a strong spice-like odour somewhat like chamomile, due to the essential oils present in the plant. The flowers are often 5 petalled and yellow in colour. It belongs to the family Passifloraceae. Damiana is an ingredient in a traditional Mexican liqueur, which is sometimes used in lieu of triple sec in margaritas. Mexican folklore claims that it was used in the "original" margarita. Inhaling the steam from Damiana steeped in boiling water is said to ease headaches. It is associated with bringing on an improved mood, relieving stress and anxiety and general relaxation. It is also said to increase overall blood flow. Magickally Damiana can be smoked or drunk in a tea to aid with lucid dreaming. While some also say that Damiana help them to sleep , others may find that Damiana actually interferes with sleep, and so combine it with sleep aid herbs, such as passionflower and lavender, it is called the Love Herb because it is said to make women willing and to make men ready and increase their nature. It is also said that if you carry Damiana in a flannel bag, your straying lover will return to you. It is also wonderfully helpful in sex magick spells. Finally… WARNING, Damiana is a psychotropic drug. It is sometimes used as an ingredient in "spice" and other marijuana substitutes- Many of these blends are very dangerous. And are Illegal.
