Herbs of the Season
Mabon
There are many uses of herbs according to the seasons. Many use herbs as incense, as decoration, as foods and to include in their ritual cup. I will try to cover each of these possibilities in turn and give as much supporting information for an herbs inclusion as I can.
Incense
(For the purposes of this discussion, 1 part is equal to 1 teaspoon; this should make enough incense to suit a solitary ritual or a small group. A large group, or an outdoor gathering might want to adjust the size accordingly.)
3 parts Benzoin Sumatra A Religious, Magickal and Visionary herb, Benzoin is promotes clarity, wisdom and generosity. According to Beyrl: "Benzoin's best use may be found in its ability to provide focus, to enhance concentration and to assit the student when moving into the astral." For these reasons it is apt at this season, as the Wheel turns...to aid in understanding the necessary passage to the other side.
1 part Yarrow A Religous, Magickal and Visionary herb. Yarrow is used for protection, to induce visions and to prevent fear. It is sacred to the Horned God.
1 part Dittany of Crete A Religous and Visionary herb, Dittany is said to aid in astral projection and the invocation of spirits.
1 part Damiana Aphrodisiac and Visionary herb, Damiana is used to heighten psychic visions and deepen trance.
Decoration
At this season the elements of decoration are nearly limitless. Stalks of wheat, ears of corn, sprigs of oak and late summer flowers -- white roses and marigolds, perhaps Fall lilacs, are all appropriate at end of harvest. Two herbs to give special consideration, though traditionally associated with Yule: Holly and Mistletoe. Holly can be used to serve as a reminder that though the Winter is coming and the God has been sacrificed, He will be re-born. Mistletoe bears the unique distinction of being an herb deadly to the invincible solar God, Balder from Norse myth
Foods of the Season
Again, the possibilities are limitless, though grain and corn should be given major consideration. Both grain and corn are representative of the dying and reborn God to cultures all over the world. Cereals and whole or multi-grain breads, fresh corn on the cob...Apples, considered in many cultures to be an herb of immortality, are also appropriate.
The Ritual Cup
The ritual cup is another way for the practicing herbalist to draw the spirits of the season into themselves. The ritual cup often contains wine or juice, sometimes other beverages. But you can also add appropriate herbs to the liquid, making a sort of tincture.
For the ritual cup, one might consider sage -- an herb of immortality; and myrrh, a potent herb used by many cultures, dissolved in wine it brings visions and comfort in sorrow.
