Cerrdiwen Greenleaf, author of Dark Moon Magic, has written a new blog post about the healing powers of herbs.

There is an old saying, “if you can’t love yourself, how the heck can you love somebody else?” This admittedly cheeky statement actually hold a lot of truth but the bottom line is everything starts with self love, your health, yourself esteem, your relationships your success and your happiness. Even if you had a less than ideal childhood, it is never too late to esteem yourself and watch as everything makes a turn for the better, And quickly. Making a daily ritual of this will weave this strand of personal empowerment into your life and make sure it is grows sure and strong.
Sanctifying Salve
Your body will recognize when you begin regarding it and treating it like a temple instead of just a vehicle to get from Point A to Point B, Imprint the positive on body and soul with a simple daily ritual you can incorporate into your morning routine. Make a salve you can rub on after your shower or bath. Not only will refresh your spirit every day but, as a bonus, your skin will actually become smoother and much softer then silk. But, why pay so much for tiny jars full of chemicals when you can whip up a yummy blend of healing herbs and restorative essential oils that is far cheaper, healthier and imbued with your personal magic? Gather together:
Stainless steel saucepan
Bowl, whisk and thermometer
Small clean jars with lids for storage
1 tablespoon of hardened beeswax
5 tablespoons organic oil (sunflower oil is effective and affordable; apricot, jojoba oil and avocado oil are nice but quite expensive)
½ teaspoon of pure aloe vera gel
20 drops of calendula tincture, 10 drops of chamomile oil; 5 drops of lavender
Melt the beeswax and vegetable oil in a double boiler (or in a bowl over a saucepan). When the beeswax is fully melted, remove the bowl or pan from the heat. Whisk the mixture until it is cooled to around 100◦ F, then stir in the tincture, essential oils you are using, along with the aloe vera. Stir gently, thinking of your intended outcome of health, glowing skin and joy-filled times. Note as the mixture thickens into a smooth salve. Before it stiffens too much, spoon it into the tins or jars you chose.
Label and store in clean, sealable lidded jars. These homemade creams will last longest if you keep them refrigerated. Make pretty labels if you are gifting a lucky loved-one this sacred salve.
Dark moon magic
Supernatural Spells, Charms, and Rituals for Health, Wealth, and Happiness
Take advantage of centuries of knowledge: In this utterly unique grimoire, bestselling author Cerridwen Greenleaf gathers celestial lore, history, and mythology, drawing from the Dark Ages mystical practices of the original Gothic tribes, Scandinavian shamans and other medieval sources to infuse these spells with the magic of the ancients, allowing the modern reader to tap into that pure power. Here, you’ll learn how to call upon the fairy world and little-known gods and goddesses to empower your magical workings, as well as ways to consecrate and wield magical tools, create a home and garden full of enchantment, and rituals to enhance every aspect of your life. With Dark Moon Magic, she has crafted nothing less than a Wiccan mystery school in book form.