Throughout history, plants have been recognized by many people as harboring the power of magic. Worldwide, humans have practiced directing these magical forces in a positive way to overcome problems, bring good luck or fulfill other needs.

Skeptical? Here are a few plants and their uses. Although the practice is not as well known as it once was, who knows, maybe it’s just what we need to move in a more positive direction.

For example, if you want to see flower fairies, you must wear a sprig of thyme. Sporting aromatic thyme is also said to bring on energy, courage, good health and increased psychic power. It has been said that women who place a sprig in their hair become irresistible.

Ancient Greek ritual involved the burning of thyme in temples to free ones soul of sin, guilt or other defilement. Today magical herbalists burn thyme for a ritualistic cleansing of a ceremonial site although some people might say these folks have too much thyme on their hands.

Having trouble getting enough good sleep? Lay a sprig of rosemary under your pillow to ensure a peaceful rest and to keep you from having nightmares. Wearing the herb is thought to aid the memory. Rosemary is also one of the original plants used as incense and is said to cleanse and purify a place when burned there.

Worried about the possibility of baldness? Wash your head with yarrow infused water as a preventative. Unfortunately, this trick will not work on heads where baldness is already evident.

Dispelling fears and providing courage are also virtues of yarrow when it is held in the hand. A piece worn on ones clothing is supposed to attract friendship and love from those you most want to appeal to. Dried yarrow hung over a couple’s bed guarantees that their marriage will last at least seven years.

Anxious about your romantic future? Pluck three leaves from a rose bush and name each one for a person you are attracted to. The last leaf to turn brown shall answer the question as to who &uot;the one&uot; is. As an added boost, drink rose petal tea before bedtime to make all of your dreams come true.

Still harvesting tomatoes this summer? Lucky you. One red tomato placed on the mantle is said to bring prosperity into the household. Replace the fruit every three days for continued good fortune. If anything, you will have at least one delicious tomato to eat every three days.

Traci Maier

can be reached at

ratmaier@bellsouth.net

.