Also Called: American Vegetable Tallow Tree, Myrtle, Wax Myrtle, Candleberry, Candleberry Myrtle, Tallow Shrub, American Vegetable Wax, Vegetable Tallow, Waxberry, Pepperidge Bush, Berbery
Bayberry is feminine in nature and associated with the earth element and the planet jupiter.
Bayberry candles are burned to bring luck and prosperity to the household. Likewise, bayberries and bayberry leaves can be useful in money drawing spells. Try adding bayberries to a luck or fortune sachet or mojo bag.
The candles themselves are high quality, long burning, and very useful in candle magic.
Candles can be made from bayberry wax. Bayberry candles are harder than beeswax candles, burn with little smoke and have a pleasant odor.
Bayberry boughs with berries on them are very attractive in floral arrangements and smell wonderful.
The decoction is a good gargle for sore throats and mouth ulcers. It is also said to strengthen gums.
The water in which the berries have been boiled to remove the wax can be used to treat dysentery.
Poultices and washes made from the powdered root have been used for ulcers and itchy skin.
Harvest the root in late autumn and pound to separate bark from the root. Dry thoroughly and powder. Store in a dark place in tightly sealed containers.
Gather the berries early in the morning in the fall or winter and boil to remove the wax. The wax will float on top and can be skimmed off. It is called myrtle wax. It can be used to make soap or candles.
***CAUTION*** Bayberry can cause vomiting in large doses. Side affects from ongoing ingestion include dizziness, dry eyes and mucus membranes, dry throat, cramping, and flatulence.
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