Thursday, July 10, 2014

Balsam Fir

Balsam is used for strength and breaking up negativity.

Planetary Association: Mars
Element: Fire
Astrological Association: Sagittarius and Capricorn

In folk medicine and lore, the needles have been used to derive a popular remedy for colds, often being used as an expectorant to help with coughing symptoms or even as a soothing aid for stuffed up sinuses. Some herbalists also prescribe the needles for their soothing fragrance which can, while easing nervous tension, be somewhat revitalizing and invigorating.

Magickal uses of Balsam Fir include strength and breaking up negativity. Within magickal applications, these needles can be used to represent the element of earth, functioning as a powerful connection for to the forest and the earth for your ritual magick. This tree belongs to the triple aspect Goddess in Celtic lore, offering learning, choice and progress. The tree is sacred to many Goddesses.  Fir is used for magic involving power, insight, progression, protection, change, feminine rebirth, and birth. The wood chips or needles are sometimes used as incense and carry a sweet forest scent, these can be burned right on charcoals or mixed with other herbs as an incense mix.

Balsam/Silver Fir is the quintessential Yule tree. Its branches can be used as decorations at Yule time either as wreaths or as garland, where it will provide protection for the household and its occupants. Associated with Yule, a Fire-centered holiday, this fragrance has a celebratory aspect. In the Alps, this is the king of trees and held in esteem by the spirit of the forest, who uses it as its home. The balsam fir is also known as Balm of Gilead, even though it is a completely different tree than that which furnishes the buds. This is an excellent substitution when Balm of Gilead is called for in a magickal recipe.

Animals, clairvoyance, healing, money, protection, strength. Scent - Fresh, evergreen, balsamic.

Burned by tradition in the winter months, fir balsam helps purify and cleanse the home. It is used to enhance work with the animal kingdom. The scent is warming and grounding. Aromatic fir is used as incense for meditation and psychic work and is used in aromatherapy to relieve anxiety and stress. Add balsam fir to dream pillows for a woodsy feeling. It is perfect for stuffing traditional balsam pillows and sachets

Druids considered the fir to be appropriate for shapeshifting. Try the silver fir if you’re working on a shapeshifting oil - it makes you really feel the connection to Gaia and busts open your animal soul. Steam-distilled from Abies balsamea in Canada or Abies alba in Austria.

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