Hedge Witches Book Shelf
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Essential Reads for the Hedge Witch’s Bookshelf – Part One
As a Hedge Witch, your bookshelf is more than just a collection of titles—it’s a sacred space where magic, wisdom, and connection thrive. Remember, your bookshelf is a living altar—a place where words become spells, and pages hold secrets. I am sharing the books that have been on my bookshelf the longest and the books I love the most. These books are your companions on the winding path of Hedge Witchery and Earth Magic.
Here are some must-have books that resonate with the very essence of Hedge Witchcraft:
Here is my heartfelt review of “Animal-Speak: The Spiritual & Magical Powers of Creatures Great & Small” by Ted Andrews from the perspective of a Hedge Witch:
This is my go-to book for any animal-related signs inquiry. Whenever I need to know what an animal is saying to me this is where I go to learn that information.
Ted Andrews wrote a book that speaks of the animal kingdom with great reverence. How these animals, as they show up in your daily life, relate to you with their spiritual significance is truly humbling. I loved this book and will treasure it for years to come.
If you’re curious about the wisdom of animals and their magical powers, “Animal-Speak” is a must-read!
“Full Moon Feast: Food and the Hunger for Connection” by Jessica Prentice: A Culinary Journey Rooted in Wisdom
In this enchanting book, Jessica Prentice invites us to a table brimming with locally grown foods, radical wisdom, and communal nourishment. Let’s explore why “Full Moon Feast” deserves a cherished spot on every Hedge Witch’s bookshelf:
Ancient Rhythms: Prentice follows the thirteen lunar cycles of an agrarian year, from the midwinter Hunger Moon to the autumnal Moon When Salmon returns to Earth. Each chapter weaves together recipes, ancient harvest legends, and methods of food preparation from indigenous cultures worldwide.
Locally Grown Magic: As an accomplished chef and passionate food activist, Prentice champions locally grown, humanely raised, nutrient-rich foods. Her recipes celebrate the flavors tied to the ancient rhythm of the seasons. Say goodbye to chemically processed ghosts of real foods—here, we savor true nourishment.
Spiritual Sensibility: Prentice’s journey isn’t just about food; it’s a call to reconnect with our land, our bodies, and each other. She combines the radical nutrition of Sally Fallon’s “Nourishing Traditions” with agri-political acumen and a spiritual sensibility that bridges indigenous and Western traditions.
Healing and Fulfillment: From relationships with local farmers to ancient food preparation methods, Prentice shares her struggles and triumphs. “Full Moon Feast” offers health, nourishment, and fulfillment—a celebration of our interconnectedness.
Why Read It? Radical Wisdom: Learn from plants, animals, fish, and birds—the very beings we consume. Misuse Awareness: Understand how our actions impact the planet we share. Hopeful Path: Despite challenges, Prentice’s book is a beacon of hope.
I fell in love with this book when I picked it up. My chef’s heart leaped with joy and my Hedge Witch soul expounded upon the way the author brings forth the food from the earth in such a pure and natural way.
“The Kybalion: The Forbidden Knowledge of the Hermetic Philosophy and The Universal Laws”: A Guiding Light for the Seeker
As a Hedge Witch, I tread the ancient paths, seeking wisdom that dances between realms. When I opened “The Kybalion”, its pages whispered secrets older than time—a celestial symphony of principles and cosmic laws. Let me share my musings:
Hermetic Threads: Written in 1908, yet its roots stretch back to the enigmatic Hermes Trismegistus (125 – 180 AD). This legendary sage wove esoteric tapestries in ancient Egypt. His teachings, veiled in starlight, now find refuge within these pages.
The All and the Everything: Here, the universe breathes. It pulsates with the rhythm of Mentalism, where all is mind—thoughts, stars, and the spaces between. As above, so below; as below, so above—the Principle of Correspondence echoes through cosmic corridors.
Vibrational Alchemy: “Nothing rests; everything moves; everything vibrates.” The Principle of Vibration hums in our bones. To change our mood, we shift our vibration. Hermetic alchemists, transmute leaden thoughts into golden insights.
Polarity’s Dance: The pendulum swings—the Principle of Polarity dances. Light and shadow, joy and sorrow—they waltz together. In their union, we find equilibrium. For every question, its answer; for every tear, its laughter.
Rhythms of the Cosmos: The Principle of Rhythm orchestrates existence. Tides ebb and flow; seasons pirouette. We sway with cosmic currents, knowing that even chaos follows a celestial choreography.
Cause and Effect: Every ripple births a wave. The Principle of Cause and Effect weaves fate’s tapestry. The law governs all; chance bows to unseen hands. We, the weavers, thread destiny’s loom.
Sacred Union: Gender dances through creation. The Principle of Gender whispers of masculine and feminine, yin and yang. In unity, they birth galaxies and dreams.
Why This Book?
It’s a star map for the seeker. It bridges ancient wisdom and modern wonder. It invites us to sip from the cup of cosmic truth. “The Kybalion”—a lantern in the labyrinth, a compass for the curious. May its light guide you through realms unseen. Your life will expand and change with its reading.
“Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs”: A Verdant Grimoire for the Curious Seeker
Scott Cunningham, the weaver of words and the whisperer of leaves, gifted us a tome that transcends time. Within its pages, the ancient and the mystical converge—a symphony of herbs, folklore, and enchantment. Let me unveil the secrets held by this revered grimoire:
Herbal Arcana: Cunningham’s work is a veritable treasure chest for those who dance with herbs. Whether you’re a seasoned witch or a budding herbalist, this book beckons. Its pages hum with the wisdom of centuries.
Practical Magic: Imagine a moonlit garden where each herb has a voice. In this encyclopedia, over 400 herbs step forth, revealing their secrets. Violets guard against ill fortune; Primrose whispers of love. Garlic, with its pungent breath, wards off thieves and heals the wounded.
Planetary Threads: Each herb dons celestial robes. Their magical properties, their gender, their planetary rulers—all woven into the fabric of existence. When a spell calls for “bramble,” you’ll know it craves blackberry. “Enebro”? Ah, that’s juniper’s ancient name.
Folklore Crossroads: The folk name cross-reference is your compass. When the recipe murmurs “bramble,” you’ll find blackberry. When magic whispers “enebro,” juniper answers. Cunning folk and hedge witches alike consult this index—a map to the green realms.
Scott’s Charm: Cunningham’s prose is like a sun-kissed meadow. His words, like petals, unfurl. He beckons you to touch the earth, to listen to the wind. His charm dances on every page, inviting you deeper into the green mysteries.
Why This Book?
It’s an essential companion for herbalists and magicians. Its illustrations guide you through herbaceous realms. Cunningham’s legacy blooms in every leafy syllable. “Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs”—a whispered incantation, a potion for the curious soul.
“Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom: A Book of Tarot” by Rachel Pollack: A Guiding Light for Seekers.
Rachel Pollack’s masterpiece, “Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom”, is more than a book—it’s a sacred grimoire for those who seek the hidden paths of the Tarot.
Tarot Renaissance: Described as the “Bible of tarot readers”, this work ignited the Tarot Renaissance in the 1980s. It wove myth, psychology, and ancient symbolism into a rich tapestry. Now, both volumes—the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana—reside within these pages.
Mythical Threads: Pollack draws from mythology and esoteric traditions, diving deep into each card’s symbolism. But she doesn’t stop there. Her modern psychological lens focuses on the card images themselves, bypassing occult systems.
Self-Enlightenment: The Tarot isn’t merely a deck; it’s a portal to self-knowledge, growth, and freedom. These archetypal symbols connect us to universal truths, weaving our stories into cosmic fabric.
Reading Mastery: Whether you’re a novice or an adept, Pollack guides you through Tarot readings. She demystifies origins, meanings, and the psychological aspects of divination. The cards become mirrors reflecting our inner landscapes.
Clarity and Complexity: Some critics argue that Pollack’s prose lacks clarity. Yet perhaps it mirrors the Tarot itself—complex, multifaceted, and open to interpretation. Her stream of consciousness invites us to explore the liminal spaces.
Why Read It?
It’s a timeless companion for Tarot enthusiasts. It bridges ancient wisdom with modern insight. Pollack’s journey becomes our own—a quest for wisdom. “Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom”—a lantern in the labyrinth, illuminating our path toward self-awareness.
“Midnight Magic: A Tarot Deck of Mushrooms” by Sara Richard invites you into a realm where fungal enchantment intertwines with the mystical language of tarot.
Let us explore this captivating deck, where the forest’s fungi whisper secrets and the cards bloom like mycelium under moonlight: Featuring dark, dreamy illustrations of forest fungi, this deck beckons you to unlock the mysteries of the tarot. It draws inspiration from the symbolism of the Rider Waite—a bridge between ancient wisdom and contemporary intuition.
Mycological Archetypes: Each of the 78 unique cards corresponds to a specific mushroom, weaving its essence into the tarot’s fabric. From the authoritative Fly Agaric (akin to the emperor) to the impetuous Chicken of the Woods (resembling the Fool), these fungi guide your journey.
The Artist Behind the Veil: Sara Richard, an Eisner and Ringo Award–nominated artist, crafts these ethereal illustrations. Her art, inspired by Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and the natural world, dances on the edge of the macabre and the unknown. Growing up surrounded by trees and wild mushrooms in New Hampshire, Sara’s connection to nature infuses every card.
Magical Artistry: This deck is more than tarot cards; it’s a work of art. Each mushroom aligns perfectly with its corresponding card, creating a harmonious tapestry. The thought and care poured into this deck’s creation are truly remarkable.
Unlocking the Mysteries: Whether you’re an avid mushroom hunter or simply seeking earthy magic, Midnight Magic awaits. Let the fungi guide your readings, revealing hidden paths and whispered truths.
This is my favorite tarot set and I can get immersed in the beautiful art, and in the quiet hours between dusk and dawn, I shuffle these cards, and let the mycelium weave destiny.
“The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy” by Valerie Ann Worwood: is a highly regarded resource in the field of aromatherapy.
The book is comprehensive, well-organized, and easy to navigate. It offers over 800 natural, non-toxic, and fragrant recipes to create health, beauty, and safe home and work environments.
The book is praised for its wealth of information, covering everything from basic first aid and treating common ailments, to natural cosmetics, body care, fragrance for the home and office, and even cooking with essential oils1. It’s considered a necessary resource for anyone interested in alternative approaches to healing and lifestyle.
The author, Valerie Ann Worwood, is a consultant and expert on the clinical uses of essential oils internationally. Her clear and positive voice provides tools to address a variety of health issues, including specific advice for children, women, men, and seniors.
The book has been updated and expanded since its first publication 25 years ago, reflecting the growing recognition and scientific exploration of essential oils and their unique properties. Overall, readers have found this book to be an excellent investment, praising it as a lifetime resource for holistic living. It’s recommended for both beginners and intermediate students of aromatherapy. It’s the book I use exclusively for my perfume creations.
“Prescription for Nutritional Healing” by Phyllis A. Balch is a comprehensive guide to natural remedies, widely regarded as a valuable resource for those interested in alternative health strategies.
The latest sixth edition has been fully revised and updated, including both time-honored strategies and the latest scientific research to provide the best natural therapies for health. It covers a range of topics from nutritional information on various conditions to natural ways to address symptoms of chronic illnesses.
The book has received positive reviews for its practical approach to drug-free remedies using vitamins, minerals, herbs, and food supplements. It’s praised for being a go-to reference for accessible, evidence-based information that serves as a guide for using natural nutritional remedies to achieve and maintain wellness.
Goodreads users have rated it highly, with the previous fifth edition garnering an average of 4.39 stars from over 6,800 ratings. Reviewers often mention the book’s depth of information and its usefulness as a reference tool for those looking to enhance their health through nutrition and supplements.
This is a book you want on your shelf to refer to daily. Once you begin to use it you will wonder how you ever got along without it. I have the volumes I, III, and IV on my bookshelf.
Homeopathic Medicine at Home: Natural Remedies for Everyday Ailments and Minor Injuries\ Authors: Maesimund B. Panos MD, Jane Heimlich\ Foreword by Dr. Robert Mendelsohn
This comprehensive one-volume compendium serves as an excellent guide to homeopathy, providing valuable insights for both beginners and those familiar with natural remedies.
The book covers the history and principles of homeopathy, making it accessible even to novices.
It includes advice on dosage and a full pharmacopeia of natural remedies for common ailments and minor injuries.
Sections are dedicated to homeopathy for children and pets, making it a versatile resource for the whole family.
What is Homeopathy? An introduction to the system of medicine based on the idea that a remedy can cure a disease if it produces symptoms like those of the disease in a healthy person.
A Homeopathic Physician at Work: Insights into how homeopathy is practiced. Your Home Remedy Kit: Practical guidance on assembling your homeopathic remedies. Accidents and Emergencies: What to do in case of mishaps. Cold, Cough, and Earache Remedies: Natural solutions for common respiratory issues. Stomach and Bowel Problems: Homeopathic approaches to gastrointestinal discomfort. Childcare: Keeping your little ones healthy with homeopathy. Women’s Health: How homeopathy can benefit women. Pet Care: Maintaining your pets’ well-being with natural remedies. Remedies and Abbreviations: A handy reference section. Mini-Repertory Materia Medica: A concise guide to remedies.
This was the book I used throughout my kids’ childhoods. They were rarely ill enough to go to the doctors to be treated but, of course, I used logic and took them when necessary.
“Gardening Without Work” by Ruth Stout. This delightful book offers a refreshing perspective on gardening, emphasizing minimal effort and natural approaches.
Here’s a review to give you a glimpse of what awaits within its pages: Ruth Stout’s philosophy is simple: less labor, more joy. She advocates for a gardening system that minimizes the backbreaking work typically associated with tilling, weeding, and fertilizing.
The Stout System revolves around mulch gardening, where you let nature do most of the heavy lifting. Instead of battling weeds and pests, you’ll focus on planting and harvesting.
Key principles include using straw mulch (several inches thick) to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and nourish the soil. Ruth even claims to garden while lounging on her couch!
Effortless Gardening: Ruth’s methods allow you to enjoy your garden without breaking a sweat. Say goodbye to endless weeding sessions!
Natural Solutions: By relying on mulch and organic practices, you’ll reduce the need for pesticides and synthetic fertilizers.
Soil Health: The Stout System enriches the soil over time, benefiting your plants and promoting sustainability.
About the Author: Ruth Imogen Stout was a remarkable woman with a passion for gardening. Born into a Quaker family, she later moved to New York and wore many hats—nurse, bookkeeper, secretary, and even owner of a tea shop in Greenwich Village. In 1930, Ruth and her husband, Alfred Rossiter, settled in Poverty Hollow at Redding Ridge, Connecticut. There, she embarked on her gardening journey, using her maiden name as her pen name. Her writing exudes joy and independence, reflecting her love for a life well-lived.
Verdict: Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a curious beginner, “Gardening Without Work” offers practical wisdom and a refreshing perspective. Ruth Stout’s legacy lives on, inspiring us to embrace nature’s rhythms and cultivate our gardens with joy.
So, if you’re ready to explore a garden where the couch doubles as a gardening tool, grab a copy of this delightful book and let Ruth Stout guide you toward a more relaxed and fruitful gardening experience!
“Indian Herbalogy of North America: The Definitive Guide to Native Medicinal Plants and Their Uses” by Alma R. Hutchens.
This classic herbalist’s guide has been a trusted resource for more than two decades, serving as a bible for herbalists worldwide.
Alma R. Hutchens provides an illustrated encyclopedic guide to over two hundred medicinal plants found in North America.
Each plant is described in terms of its appearance, uses, and dosage instructions.
The book compares Native American traditions with traditional uses of the same plants in other cultures, including Russia and China.
An annotated bibliography of relevant books and periodicals is also included.
Effortless Herbalism: Hutchens emphasizes practicality and simplicity, making herbal medicine accessible to all.
Natural Healing Traditions: The book delves into Native American herbalism and other global healing practices.
Staple Plants: Entries cover well-known herbs like echinacea and slippery elm, as well as common kitchen herbs with lesser-known tonic and healing properties.
Alma R. Hutchens, a close associate of the late herbalist N. G. Tretchikoff, has dedicated years to studying and practicing herbal medicine. Her expertise shines through this comprehensive guide, making it a valuable resource for both beginners and seasoned herbalists.
Whether you’re curious about natural remedies or seeking practical guidance, “Indian Herbalogy of North America” offers a wealth of knowledge on medicinal plants and I would highly recommend this book for the bookshelf of any Earth Magic practitioner.
Thank you for stopping by today and visiting my library. I will post another Book Shelf list another day as I determine the most important books I hold and wish to share. What books do you have on your books shelf as your tried and true go-to for information? Please, share these in the comment section below. Join my Community so you are the first to be notified of a post.
I’ll conjure a whispered enchantment for you, woven with the threads of moonlight and dew-kissed petals.
Blessing of the Hedgerow
For those who dance between realms,
Who seek solace in tangled roots,
And weave spells with bramble fingers.
In the hush of twilight, I invoke:
– Toadstools, guardians of secrets,
Lend us your wisdom as we wander.
– Foxglove, with your bell-shaped blooms,
Grant us protection on moonlit paths.
– Nettle, fierce and unyielding,
Teach us resilience in tangled thickets.
And when the silver crescent smiles, whisper:
“May your steps be guided by fern fronds,
Your heart is attuned to rustling leaves.
May the hedge’s magic flow through you,
And the ancient spirits sing your name.”
Remember, dear hedge witch, you are both earthbound and star-kissed.
-Kirsten
Disclaimer: Information is for Educational purposes. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbal medicine, particularly if you have a known medical condition or if you are pregnant or nursing. You are responsible for your health. As with conventional medicine, herbal medicine is vast and complex and must be used responsibly. They are not meant to be used to diagnose, treat, prescribe, prevent, or cure any disease or to administer in any manner to any physical ailments and is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice of a trained health professional.
As an Amazon Associate and Earth Breeze Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. You can read my full Disclosure HERE.
