Vision spells awaken our innate ability to “see” the invisible. This semi-hallucinatory, dreamlike state fascinated mystics from every corner of the world since the dawning of human history. The ancient Hindus even identified a chakra for this subtle human quality—the Third Eye. In witchcraft and magical practices, vision spells aspire to unlock the proverbial lid of the Third Eye.
Vision Spells and Herbalism
Herbalists prize many of the most sacred herbs in the world for their psychic properties. Nearly every culture, both indigenous and industrialized, knows and uses such herbs to spiritual advantage.
Unlike medicinal practices, in witchcraft, we generally use vision herbs for their metaphysical, rather than medicinal properties. Of course, there are exceptions. Flying ointments, for example, are applied to the body directly for inducing visions).
Although mostly intended for external use in spells, even skin contact with some of the herbs below requires careful preparation. If you are already well down the path of an herbalism practice, then you likely know that vision herb pose some dangers.
A Word of Caution
Many herbs listed below are deadly poisonous. Only a qualified herbalist may safely handle them. Treat vision herbs with respect and reverence.
Note: This article is for your edification only.
If you feel drawn to working with these herbs, please seek the proper guidance from someone with top-notch training in the uses and dangers of these herbs.
Appropriate magical use of vision herbs
Use vision herbs only if you thoroughly familiarized yourself with the herbs in question, or work under the supervision of a qualified herbalist.
In general, safe use of vision herbs is appropriate:
- Before divination and tarot reading.
- During the dark moon and dark moon rituals.
- When engaging in dream magic and dream work.
Damiana
Reputed as an herbal aphrodisiac, damiana also appears in many classic psychic awareness spells. A native plant of the American Southwest, as well as Central America, this plant grows wildly where almost nothing else will.
Food-grade damiana can be safely brewed into tea. Try drinking a cup before gazing into a scrying mirror or before a tarot reading. Or, toss a pinch of it into your bag of runes between readings to infuse them with psychic energy.
Mugwort
In Medieval Europe, travelers used mugwort as a protection herb. This also applies to those “travelers” embarking on vision quests, astral projection, and other introspective journeys. Carry a bag of mugwort whenever you plan to go on any such metaphoric pilgrimage.
Monkshood
Monkshood is a deadly poisonous neurotoxin that should only be handled with extreme caution by someone who knows exactly what they are doing. However, I included it here for your knowledge because of its powerful “invisibility” properties. Monkshood reveals what we often miss with our physical eyes by making invisible what distracts us.
Mandrake Root
The hallucinogenic properties of mandrake root hardly warrant the risk of ingesting it. However, these properties also make it a compelling ingredient in spells to open the third eye. Traditionally included in spells to unveil mysterious circumstances, gain insight into your life’s purpose, or consider all the angles of an important decision.
Black Nightshade
Black nightshade may refer to several varieties of similar plants. Some are commercially available. Use caution, particularly when handling the berries of this toxic plant. However, the herb enhances dream work and induces nighttime visions during REM sleep. Add it to a dream jar or fill a drawstring pouch with black nightshade and hang it over your bed.
Datura
Also sometimes called Jimson Weed, many tribes of the indigenous people of the Americas traditionally consumed parts of the datura plant to “commune with the gods and spirits.” Known for its powerful vision-inducing properties, it is predictably hallucinogenic. But don’t be stupid. Emergencies rooms treat recreational users every year for foolishly ingesting this plant.
However, qualified herbalists may add datura to their repertoire of knowledge for its association with powerful spiritual visions.
Rosemary
Among the safest herbs on this list, you may ingest rosemary with little to no risk. (Assuming you aren’t allergic). In fact, it is a common culinary herb with many magical uses.
Burn dried, organic rosemary on a charcoal disk to heighten your consciousness during divination and meditation.