A tenth I know: when at night the witches
ride and sport in the air,
such spells I weave that they wander home
out of skins and wits bewildered.
-Hávamál verse 154, Poetic Edda, translated by Olive Bray
Historically the hedge-witch was a solitary healer, living just beyond the hedge boundary of the village and civilized society. To travel beyond this hedge marked the beginning of the wild and unknown world.
The hedge-witch intimately lived and communed within the untamed wilderness. She was one with nature. She knew what plants would cure illness, heal wounds, poison and alter the mind. She existed in all her knowledge both of physical and spiritual medicine, walking the liminal spaces between this world and the Otherworld.
To ride the hedge is to cross the figurative boundary between this world and into other realms, much like shamanic journeying. By reaching an altered state of consciousness the hedge-witch's spirit can enter the upper and lower realms of the Otherworld.
There are many ways to reach this altered state. Some include drumming, chanting, rattles, and the use of ointments/salves and other concoctions with potent plant spirits.
Each herb spirit in this salve was invoked for its phenomenal magick. Some of these include Wild Dagga (leonotis nepetifolia), Wild Lettuce, Gotu Kola, Blue Lotus, and Wormwood.
Apply to the third eye, temples, behind the ears, or bottoms of your feet. Use a small amount at first and adjust accordingly.
*Please note, Hayes Haven Apothecary is not responsible for adverse allergic reactions or misuse of products. Do not ingest. Do not use this product if you are pregnant or nursing. Do not apply to children.
**Please be aware, this is a tool to assist you in your hedge-riding, journeying and pathwalking. It will have different effects on different people and I cannot guarantee any particular outcome by its use. Like with any spiritual practices you must do the proper work to cultivate deeper awareness. Herbs, ointments and crystals, etc are to help you along, not a replacement for actual practice and discipline.
This listing is for a 1 oz. tin. If you have any questions about this product please feel free to email me for more info.