Sage – Sage is most often used to cleanse and purify space when used in a smudge stick or as incense. It can be used to invite wisdom into your space, and its uses in various traditions make it a good general spiritual herb. There are several varieties of sage. White sage is the most widely recognizable but it is also in danger of over harvesting from the wild. Dalmatian sage is an acceptable substitute.

Rosemary – This is an excellent all-purpose herb. Its magical properties include purification, protection, love, healing and restful sleep. It is a member of the evergreen family and its aroma lends itself well to incense and potpourri. It is a hardy plant and brings its protective energies to the garden as well.

Mugwort – Mugwort has strong associations with the moon and its mysteries. This makes it an important herb for use in divination incenses and sachets. It is said to encourage dreaming when placed under your pillow, and mugwort tea makes a great simple wash for scrying mirrors, stones, and other tools of divination.

Lavender – This is one of the most popular herbs for witches and herbalists alike. Its mild scent and flavor are very soothing and it is often found in relaxing teas and soaks. It is said to be good for purifying space when it is burned. Be forewarned however, it does NOT smell soothing when it is burning. (I know this from personal experience!) Its properties include peace, restful sleep, protection and longevity. It is a great addition to a dream pillow or soothing potpourri as well.

Spearmint – All members of the mint family share some properties, Spearmint is my favorite because it has a sweeter sent and flavor that some of the others. It is good for digestion (think after-dinner mints) and can also help stimulate mental awareness. Some of its other properties include healing and love.

Comfrey – This little gem has uses both for healing and magic as well. The leaves, when made into an ointment or cream its tissue regenerative properties can reduce scarring and speed the healing of many cuts and scrapes. Magically, it is used for protection during travel, not only for the traveler, but protection of the home and belongings while the person is away. Comfrey root can also be used in spells for prosperity.

Orris root – Orris can be found in both root and powder form and has several uses. It is best known for use in love magic but holds properties of protection. Its sweet smelling powder is sometimes referred to as “love drawing powder”. A whole root, if you can find it, can be used as a pendulum for divination. The powder can also be used as a binder and preservative in magical potpourri.

Many of the things we use are not herbs, but all of them useful and important. There certainly are others, but this is a good list to get you started.

Frankincense – This is a resin used in ancient times and it is still used today in many spiritual traditions. Its scent is evocative of the old ways and of connection to the spirit. It is a wonderful addition to incense or can be burned on its own. Its magical properties are spirituality, consecration, and protection.

Benzoin – This resin is often used as a preservative in herbal preparations and makes an excellent resin to bind incense. It is available in a liquid form as well but be forewarned that the oil can be very thick and sticky, so if you are using it in an oil blend it may take a lot of time and agitation to really blend with the other oils. Its magical properties include cleansing/purifying and prosperity.

Sandalwood – This is a highly fragrant wood that has been used in many cultures for spiritual connection. It is also used for protection and cleansing. There are two varieties, red and yellow, and they can be found at many metaphysical stores. Sandalwood can be very expensive and it is becoming harder to obtain due to the manner in which it is harvested and because it takes a very long time to replenish itself. Because of these harvesting methods, many witches will not use sandalwood at all. If you choose to use it, please be responsible and don’t purchase more than you will use. Cedar can often be substituted for sandalwood but is not as powerful.

Willow – Willow has been used for many years as a tool for divination. Branches that form a Y are used in dowsing, most specifically to find water. It also makes a lovely wand for moon magic because of its connection to water. Willow bark is an excellent pain reliever. In fact, the compounds in willow bark were the source of modern aspirin.

Salt – Just because salt is at the end of this list doesn’t mean it is less important that the rest. In fact, salt is one of the most important things we use. Salt is used for purification and protection, and can even be used to represent the element of Earth on an altar. In many rituals, salt is mixed into a chalice of water and sprinkled around the circle to seal it. It is also used in house blessings and many types of spells. Most often Sea Salt is preferred, and can be found in most supermarkets. It is available in coarse and fine grinds. I recommend fine ground salt for things like bath salts and scrubs, and coarse ground for things that require a more visual appeal. Definitely a must have for any witch!