The Magical and Ritual Use of Herbs

by Richard Alan Miller

Richard Alan Miller has thoroughly researched the historical use, chemical structure, preparation for consumption, and magical rituals related to narcotic, hallucinogenic, stimulant, and depressant herbs. He explains how these natural substances can be used for the enhancement of sexuality, muscle relaxation and massage, initiation, spiritual growth, and astral projection.

Provides a fascinating study of nineteen herbs that not only stimulate our energies, but also combat fatigue, assist healing, and relieve tension.

Genres: Occult, Herbs, Nonfiction, Witchcraft, Reference, Magick, Spirituality

128 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1983

Reviews

[Datura Bombs · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a short, but great beginner text for using psychoactive herbs in a magickal framework. While it's a quick read, you'll find a few hidden gems in the rituals listed. An enjoyable read, and a great Introduction to the poison path!

[Clivemichael · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent overview of the material, guessing when I originally read it, different cover.

[Celeste · Rating 4 out of 5]

A slim volume that's a very good reference for select herbs. Solid descriptions and best practices. The author is also well-versed in the works of Aleister Crowley, based on his references throughout.

[Ariel Lynn · Rating 1 out of 5]

I wanted to like this book. Unfortunately, I'm no longer looking for a legal high (from 1983). Check out my full thoughts on my blog.

[Lee Tempest · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hm. More of an encyclopedia than something to read. Unfortunately, it wasn't as I have hoped, since I used it to look up the history and effects of the plants used in Flying Ointment to get an idea of the plants that make up the whole. Unfortunately, I couldn't find entries for the following which is... worrying:
Mugwort
various Oreganos
various Sages
Tansy

[Claudio Yáñez Valenzuela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Un trabajo muy interesante, sin el infantilismo constante en los trabajos con hierbas de características tóxicas o alucinógenas. Interesante.

[David]

This books is great for pagans, herbalists, and destitute spiritual adventurers (broke pot heads). It covers the science of psycho-active plants and fungi. It also contains a bit of folklore and ritual info where appropriate. It really is a nice book. Just be careful if you should attempt to experiment with any of these substances. A lot of this stuff can and will make you sick. And an honest word for the "destitute spiritual adventurers" from someone that studied this book well: there really aren't good and legal substitutes for what you love. If that's all you want, this book doesn't deliver so well in that department.