The Maori’s Treasure: Kiwi Fruit Symbolism, Healing Power, and Magic

The Magic of Kiwis

In the world of fruits, there’s one that stands out as a true enigma, captivating hearts and palates with its unique charm. The kiwi, a small and unassuming fruit, holds within its fuzzy exterior a world of mystique and allure that has intrigued and delighted people around the globe.

A Feast for the Senses

The first thing that captures your attention is the kiwi’s appearance. Its small, oval shape, covered in a delicate fuzz, conceals a burst of vibrant green flesh flecked with tiny, ebony seeds. This visual contrast is a mere hint of the sensory delight that awaits. When you slice open a ripe kiwi, a burst of fresh, tangy aroma fills the air, promising a taste experience like no other.

Sweet, Tart, and Sensational

The flavor of a kiwi is a harmonious blend of sweet and tart, a perfect balance that dances on the taste buds. The lusciousness of its flesh, combined with the delightful crunch of its tiny seeds, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that make each bite a memorable sensation.

A Symbol of Renewal and Individuality

Beyond its delectable taste and inviting appearance, the kiwi holds a special place in the hearts of many due to its rich symbolism and spiritual significance. Originating from the land of the Kiwi bird in New Zealand, it carries with it a deep connection to the indigenous Maori culture, symbolizing individuality, renewal, and the importance of staying true to oneself.

A Wholesome Diet Essential

In addition to its symbolic value, kiwis are celebrated for their exceptional health benefits. Packed with vitamin C, they boost the immune system and promote overall well-being. Their unique enzyme, actinidin, aids in digestion and enhances nutrient absorption, making them a staple for those seeking a nutritious and wholesome diet.

The Symbolism of Kiwis

Originating in China, kiwis have evolved to hold a symbolic significance that transcends their geographical origins. These luscious fruits have come to embody the concept of uniqueness and a profound connection to one’s heritage.

Embracing Uniqueness

At their core, kiwis symbolize the extraordinary qualities that make each individual special. Just as each kiwi fruit is distinct with its vibrant green flesh, speckled with tiny black seeds, people too carry their own unique traits, experiences, and stories. This symbolism encourages us to celebrate our individuality, recognizing that our differences are what make us valuable and remarkable.

A kiwi fruit on a wooden cutting board. — Kiwi on Tray by Mateusz Feliksik.

Cultural Anchors

Furthermore, kiwis serve as a metaphor for the importance of staying grounded in one’s cultural or familial roots. Just as a kiwi tree draws sustenance from its native soil to flourish, people can draw strength and wisdom from their cultural heritage, ancestry, and personal history. It’s a reminder that no matter how far we may wander, our roots remain an essential part of our identity, providing nourishment for growth and a sense of belonging.

Maori Tradition

The kiwi bird, which is native to New Zealand, is a powerful symbol in Maori culture, representing uniqueness and the connection to one’s roots. In a similar vein, kiwi fruit symbolizes individuality and the importance of staying true to oneself.

Kiwi’s Maori Link

This connection is not just linguistic but deeply cultural. The fruit was named “kiwi” as a tribute to the small, brown fruit’s resemblance to the unique and iconic kiwi bird. This naming reflects the strong cultural ties between kiwis and the indigenous Maori people of New Zealand, emphasizing the fruit’s symbolic and cultural significance in the region.

Sliced kiwi fruits. — Sliced Kiwi Fruits by PhotoMIX Company.

Kiwi Fruit’s Spiritual Meaning

In the spiritual realm, kiwis are revered for their profound association with rejuvenation and transformation. At the heart of this symbolism lies the mesmerizing vibrant green color that defines the fruit. This vivid hue is more than just a visual delight; it carries deep and timeless significance.

Green: Symbol of Renewal

The color green represents growth, renewal, and the ever-evolving cycle of life. It’s a reminder of nature’s ceaseless transformation, where every season brings a fresh chapter, each bloom signifies rebirth, and every falling leaf conveys the promise of renewal.

Ritual for Transformation

Eating a kiwi fruit, therefore, can be viewed as a symbolic act of renewal and a fresh start. It’s as if with each succulent bite, you partake in a ritual of transformation and rejuvenation. The vibrant green flesh serves as a visual reminder of the opportunities for personal growth and renewal that life continually offers.

Growth With Kiwi Fruit

The act of consuming a kiwi fruit transcends mere nourishment; it becomes a spiritual connection to the natural world’s inherent wisdom. It encourages us to embrace change and transformation in our lives, just as nature does. It is a gentle yet powerful reminder that within the cycles of life, there is always room for renewal, growth, and fresh beginnings.

Kiwi’s Healing Power and Remedies

Beyond their delightful taste, kiwis are packed with health benefits. Rich in vitamin C, kiwis boost the immune system and promote overall well-being. They also contain a unique enzyme called actinidin, which aids in digestion and enhances nutrient absorption.

Kiwis are renowned for their skin-nourishing properties. They are a source of antioxidants and vitamin E, both of which contribute to healthy, radiant skin. You can even create DIY face masks using mashed kiwi for a natural, glowing complexion.

In traditional medicine, kiwis have been used to alleviate conditions like asthma and indigestion. Their high fiber content aids in regulating digestion, while their anti-inflammatory properties provide relief from respiratory issues.

The Witch’s Corner: Kiwi’s Metaphysical Properties

In the world of witchcraft and metaphysical practices, kiwis are considered a potent ingredient. Their vibrant color aligns with the heart chakra, making them a symbol of love and emotional healing. Kiwis are believed to help release negative energy and promote emotional balance.

To harness kiwi’s metaphysical properties, you can incorporate them into various spells and rituals. For example, you can use kiwi slices in love spells to attract positive energy and foster affectionate relationships. Adding kiwi to meditation sessions is thought to enhance emotional clarity and intuition.

Recipe: Kiwi Juice Cooler

This kiwi juice is not only a fantastic source of vitamin C and other essential nutrients, but it’s also a perfect thirst-quencher on a hot day or a delightful addition to your breakfast routine.

Recommended Products

These recommended products offer a variety of ways to enjoy kiwi, from snacking to cooking and even staying cool during hot days. Explore these options and add some kiwi-inspired goodness to your life!

Please note that the provided “Buy on Amazon” links are affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through them. Your support helps us continue providing valuable content to our readers.

Dried Kiwi Fruit Slices from Herbaila Store

Herbaila Store offers delicious and naturally sweet Dried Kiwi Fruit Slices. These delectable slices are a perfect snack for those who crave the unique flavor of kiwi any time of the day.

Dried Kiwi Fruit Slices from The Herbalia Store

Why We Love It: The Herbaila Store’s Dried Kiwi Fruit Slices are a healthy and convenient way to enjoy the goodness of kiwi. They are a great addition to your snacking repertoire and can also be used in various recipes.

Buy on Amazon: Check Price

Chewy Diced Dried Kiwi from Oh! Nuts

Oh! Nuts brings you Chewy Diced Dried Kiwi, packed with tangy and chewy kiwi goodness. These bite-sized pieces are perfect for on-the-go snacking.

Why We Love It: Oh! Nuts offers high-quality dried kiwi that’s both flavorful and nutritious. These diced pieces are a fantastic option for a quick energy boost or to satisfy your sweet cravings.

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Freeze Dried Kiwi Powder by Jungle Powders

Jungle Powders presents Freeze Dried Kiwi Powder, a versatile ingredient that adds the essence of kiwi to your smoothies, desserts, and more. Experience the pure taste of kiwi in powdered form.

Freeze Dried Kiwi Powder from Jungle Powders.

Why We Love It: This kiwi powder is a game-changer for those who love incorporating natural flavors into their recipes. It’s perfect for adding a burst of kiwi flavor to your favorite dishes and beverages.
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Kiwi Fruit Foldable Hand Fan

Stay cool in style with this Kiwi Fruit Foldable Hand Fan. Its vibrant kiwi design adds a touch of fun to any hot day, making it an essential accessory for summer outings.

Why We Love It: This hand fan not only keeps you comfortable in warm weather but also showcases your love for kiwi. It’s a cute and practical addition to your summer accessories.

Buy on Amazon: Check Price

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The Fruit of Promise: Almond Spiritual Meaning, Healing Power and Magic

The Magic of Almonds

The almond has captured human fascination for centuries. Its delicate appearance, with a tough exterior concealing a treasure trove within, mirrors the duality of life itself. This small, unassuming nut has managed to enthrall cultures worldwide, emerging as a symbol rich with meaning and purpose.

Strength in Vulnerability

The almond’s allure begins with its dual nature. Its tough, protective shell guards the soft, edible kernel within. This stark contrast between the exterior and interior of the almond symbolizes the paradoxes of existence – the strength and vulnerability, the resilience and fragility that coexist in the human experience.

A jar of almonds on a wooden table. The jar is made of glass and has white and red ribbons label. The almonds are light brown and have a smooth texture. — Almond Nut in Jar by Ali Hassan.

Almond’s Sacred History

Throughout history, the almond has played a prominent role in various cultures. In ancient times, it was considered a luxurious delicacy reserved for royalty, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. In religion, the almond often appears as a sacred symbol, representing resurrection, purity, and divine revelation in Christianity. In Judaism, it signifies divine favor and is a part of various rituals.

Culinary Chameleon

Almonds are versatile in the culinary world. They find their way into an array of dishes, from sweets like marzipan and almond pastries to savory dishes like almond-crusted chicken. This adaptability reflects the diverse roles we play in our lives, adapting to circumstances and embracing change.

Crack, Discover, Savor

Almonds embody the complexities of life through their tough exterior and tender core. Their rich cultural symbolism, nutritional value, culinary versatility, and resilience in nature all serve as powerful reminders of the beauty and meaning hidden beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary things. Just as almonds reveal their treasure when cracked open, so too can the world yield profound insights when we delve deeper into its wonders.

Almond Symbolism and Spiritual Meaning

Almonds possess a profound and enduring symbolism that transcends cultural and religious boundaries, ingraining themselves as powerful icons of renewal, resurrection, and divine benevolence in the collective consciousness of humanity.

A person's hand holding a handful of raw almonds. The almonds are light brown and have a smooth texture. — Crop Person Holding Handful of Raw Almonds by Leonardo Vazquez.

Blossoming Hope and New Beginnings

One of their most captivating traits is their propensity to burst forth in bloom early in the spring, often heralding the arrival of the season before other trees have awakened from their winter slumber.

This unique characteristic endows almonds with an inherent association with new beginnings, making them a potent symbol of fresh starts and rejuvenation.

Symbol of Awakening

Within the Christian tradition, the almond’s distinctive shape, reminiscent of a radiant halo, has bestowed upon it a profound significance. This resemblance has elevated the almond to a symbol of divine revelation and spiritual awakening.

The recurrence of this motif across various cultures and belief systems positions almonds as messengers of hope and enlightenment, transcending the boundaries of time and geography.

A pile of brown almonds on a white plate. The almonds are slightly overlapping and are placed on a woven mat. — Brown Almond Nuts on White Plate by Kafeel Ahmed.

The Healing Power of Almonds

Beyond their spiritual symbolism, almonds wield significant healing power. Packed with essential nutrients, they nourish the body, aiding in heart health, weight management, and providing a rich source of vitamin E—an antioxidant that promotes healthy skin. Almond oil, extracted from these nuts, has been a cornerstone of traditional medicine, celebrated for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. Incorporating almonds into one’s diet can foster physical well-being while connecting to the centuries-old tradition of utilizing nature’s bounty for holistic healing.

Remedies Involving Almonds

Almonds have found their way into a myriad of natural remedies. Almond milk, a dairy-free alternative, is celebrated for its nutritional content and versatility in culinary creations. Ground almond paste has been used to exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin, contributing to ancient beauty rituals. Almond oil massages, with their soothing aroma and deeply nourishing effects, provide relaxation and stress relief. These age-old practices serve as a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern well-being.

The Witch’s Corner: Almond’s Metaphysical Properties

Within the realm of metaphysical practices, almonds continue to shine. They are believed to possess energies that enhance mental clarity, intuition, and insight. Almond wood, with its fine grain, is favored in crafting wands and divination tools. Almond blossoms are sometimes used in spells related to fertility, protection, and divination. To harness almond’s magical essence, practitioners infuse oils, create potions, or add ground almonds to incense blends. By aligning with the metaphysical properties of almonds, witches and seekers can tap into the mystical currents of the natural world.

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The Fragrant Berry: Strawberry Spiritual Meaning, Healing Power, and Magic

The Magic of Strawberries

The allure of strawberries goes beyond their vibrant red hue and succulent sweetness. They are often associated with love and passion, making them a symbol of affection in various cultures. In Roman mythology, they are believed to have grown from the tears of Venus as she wept for her beloved Adonis, reinforcing their connection to love.

Beyond symbolism, strawberries offer healing benefits. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, they boost the immune system, promote healthy skin, and aid in heart health. Their abundance of anthocyanins contributes to their heart-protective properties.

A crate filled with red strawberries. The strawberries are ripe and juicy, with a few green leaves still attached. The crate is made of a clear plastic, so the strawberries are visible from all sides. — Red Strawberry in Colorless Plastic Crate by Anastasiia Petrova.

In the world of magic, strawberries play a significant role. They are used in love spells to attract romance and deepen relationships. For fertility and abundance, they are incorporated into rituals to invoke blessings. Additionally, strawberries are considered protective, warding off negative energies.

In some traditions, strawberries serve divination and intuition purposes. Consuming them before divining is believed to enhance psychic abilities and accuracy.

Strawberries’ magic and appeal transcend time, enchanting cultures across the globe. As we relish their sweetness, let us also marvel at the deeper wonders they bring to our lives.

Symbolism and Spiritual Meaning

Strawberries are often associated with love, romance, and passion. The heart-shaped fruit has become an emblem of affection and is frequently used in celebrations of love, such as weddings and Valentine’s Day. The allure of strawberries lies not only in their appearance but also in their ability to evoke positive emotions.

Throughout history, strawberries have held various symbolic meanings. In some cultures, strawberries represent purity and righteousness, while in others, they signify prosperity and abundance. Additionally, strawberries are linked to the goddess of love and fertility in ancient mythology.

Fertility and Renewal

In some cultures, strawberries are considered a symbol of fertility and renewal. The tiny seeds covering the fruit are seen as a representation of fertility and the circle of life. Strawberries are often included in fertility rituals and rites of passage to invoke blessings of abundance and new beginnings.

A bowl of ripe strawberries on a wooden table. The strawberries are a deep red color, with a few slightly lighter red strawberries mixed in. The leaves on the strawberries are a bright green color. The bowl is made of white ceramic, and it is sitting on a wooden table. The background of the image is a white wall. — Strawberries in Bowl on Table by Jenna Hamra.

Strawberry in Mythology

Strawberries are linked to the goddess Aphrodite, who is the embodiment of love, beauty, and desire. According to the myth, the origin of strawberries is connected to a moment of sorrow and love.

The legend tells of Aphrodite weeping for her beloved Adonis, who tragically died. As her tears fell to the ground, they transformed into beautiful red strawberries, symbolizing the depth of her love and the fleeting nature of life.

This association between strawberries and the goddess of love has immortalized the fruit as a symbol of passion and romance. In ancient Greece, strawberries were often used in rituals and offerings dedicated to Aphrodite, seeking her blessings in matters of love and relationships.

A glass jar filled with strawberries. The strawberries are a deep red color, with a few slightly lighter red strawberries mixed in. The leaves on the strawberries are a bright green color. The jar is a clear glass, and it has a metal lid with a white stripe. — Strawberry in Glass Fido Jar by Mali Maeder.

The Healing Power of Strawberry

Beyond their symbolic meanings, strawberries possess remarkable healing properties. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, they are a powerhouse of health benefits. Here are some ways strawberries can contribute to our well-being:

Nutritional Richness

Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, manganese, and folate. They boost the immune system, promote healthy skin, and aid in DNA synthesis. Including strawberries in our diet can have a positive impact on overall health.

Cardiovascular Health

Studies have shown that strawberries can improve heart health by reducing bad cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure. The presence of anthocyanins in strawberries contributes to their heart-protective properties.

Skin Nourishment

Strawberries are often used in skincare products due to their ability to promote collagen production and fight free radicals. Applying mashed strawberries on the skin can result in a rejuvenated and radiant complexion.

Strawberry Oatm eal Smoothie

Witch’s Corner: Strawberries in Magical Practice

In the realm of witchcraft and metaphysical practices, strawberries have a unique role to play. Their magical properties can be harnessed for various purposes:

Love Spells and Romance

Given their association with love, strawberries are often used in love spells to attract romance and deepen existing relationships. Placing strawberries on an altar during love-related rituals can enhance their potency.

Fertility and Abundance

Witches seeking fertility blessings or abundance in their lives can incorporate strawberries into their magical workings. It is believed that consuming strawberries during fertility spells or planting them in a garden can invite blessings of fertility and prosperity.

Protection and Purification

Strawberries are considered protective fruits in magical practices. Placing a bowl of strawberries near entryways is believed to ward off negative energies and offer a sense of security.

Divination and Intuition

In some traditions, strawberries are used as a tool for divination and enhancing intuition. Eating strawberries before engaging in divinatory practices is thought to heighten psychic abilities and improve the accuracy of readings.

Thyme: The Herb of Courage

Thyme’s magic is…well, timeless. In Ancient Greece, thyme was infused into baths, and in Greek temples, the smoke from thyme incense was used to spread courage. Egyptians would embalm their dead using thyme, and the Europeans would place it in coffins to help the …

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Valerian: The All-Heal

Valerian is powdered and used in sachets for protection and purification and can be placed under the pillow as a sleep aid. When hung in the home, it can guard against lightning strikes, and powdered and sprinkled along the threshold it can deter unwanted guests. It is believed that if a woman pins a sprig of Valerian …

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Pumpkin Symbolism and Spiritual Meaning

An assortment of different types of pumpkins.

Pumpkin Symbolism and Spiritual Meaning

Pumpkins evoke the magic of the Fall season. When we think of pumpkins, we are reminded of jack-o-lanterns sitting on porches for Halloween, the scent of pumpkin pie baking for Thanksgiving festivities; the warmth of pumpkin-scented candles, and the return of (gasp!) pumpkin spice.

The Quintessential Symbol of Autumn

Pumpkins are intricately connected to Autumn and its various festivities, especially Samhain. Pumpkins help to unveil the intrigue, mystery, and magic of this supernatural time, as pumpkins are intricately connected to the Underworld and the Goddess of Magic.

Lit Pumpkins Guide Spirits and Ancestors

When the veil is at its thinnest, and the spirits of our ancestors and not-so-familiar spirits find purchase in the physical realm once again, it is the glow of carved pumpkins lit with candles from within that help guide the path — or steer them away.

A photo of orange pumpkins taken with a selective focus lens.

Pumpkins Remind Us of Mortality and to Respect the Dead

The spirits of the dead return for a brief moment to remind us that all that is living will one day pass away. In this regard, pumpkins also carry with them the sobering message of our mortality and respect for those that have passed before us.

All Things Come to an End

With the arrival of pumpkins also comes the awareness all things come to an end. The sweltering heat of the summer season is making way for the settling chill of autumn and winter.

Reaping the Fruits of Our Labor

All the planning, preparation, and sowing we had engaged in at the beginning of the growing season now come full circle, and we see the fruits of our labor. The time of growth has come to an end, and now it’s time to harvest and store.

Pumpkins Symbolize Wealth and Prosperity

Pumpkins share many associations with wealth, abundance, and prosperity. It is said that dreaming of a pumpkin patch is a sign that you will come into wealth. This makes perfect sense because being fortunate enough to have a pumpkin patch means having access to abundant fruit that can be used in many fortuitous ways.

Pumpkin Seeds Mean Opportunity

Pumpkin seeds especially seem to evoke the promise of wealth and abundance to come since pumpkins are replete with them and having so many seeds means many opportunities to grow the fruits that will lead to budding prosperity.

Three pumpkins — large and small — resting on a haystack with strings of orange lights in the background.

Pumpkin Fun Facts

Pumpkins are one of the oldest domesticated plants, with evidence of their use dating as far back as 7,500 to 5,000 B.C.

“Winter Squash” Pie

The pumpkins used for carving jack-o-lanterns are usually not the “pumpkins” used in the canned pumpkin puree, and pie filling found at the grocery store. The canned pumpkin puree is usually made from winter squash, most often butternut squash.

Where Does the Name “Pumpkin” Come From?

The word pumpkin originates from the Greek word pepon (πέπων), which means “large melon,” and is typically used to describe something round and large.

Two bright orange pumpkins on a dark gray wooden surface.

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The contents of this website are for informational purposes only and do not render medical or psychological advice, opinion, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided through this website should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a medical or psychological problem, you should consult your appropriate health care provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Links on this website are provided only as an informational resource, and it should not be implied that we recommend, endorse or approve of any of the content at the linked sites, nor are we responsible for their availability, accuracy, or content.

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Oshun and Pumpkin Mythology

Oshun’s Sacred Fruit

Pumpkins are sacred to Oshun, and the pumpkin fruit and its seeds are all considered children of Oshun. Therefore it is important not to consume pumpkin or pumpkin seeds when beseeching the help of Oshun as she finds this quite offensive.

Pumpkin Offerings for Oshun

There are certain magical spells and offerings, however, that you can employ that will garner Oshun’s attention according to your specific needs. As she is a river goddess, the river is where she would receive these offerings.

Offerings for Conception and Wealth

For instance, if you’re looking to conceive, take a whole pumpkin, smear it with honey and throw it into a river for Oshun’s blessing on your fertility efforts. When looking for wealth, throw a handful of pumpkin seeds into the river.

Offering Oshun Pumpkins to Attract Love

If you carve the name of the one you wish to love into a pumpkin and throw it into the river, Oshun will be more than happy to assist you with your courtship.

Pumpkin in Mythology: Oshun and the Calabaza

Typical of Yoruba culture are patakis – myths or legends that explain how a Yoruba deity came to be closely associated with or favor a certain food. Oshun is no exception to this rule, and there exists a tale that explains her deep connection to pumpkins.

The Most Beautiful Calabaza in Oshun’s Field

According to the mythology, Oshun had a calabaza (pumpkin) field that she cared for with much love and attention. One of her pumpkins became big, plump, and beautiful, much to the jealousy of the other pumpkins, who saw fit to harass and insult this pumpkin.

Oshun Shows Pity on the Beautiful Pumpkin

Eventually, the abuse became too much to bear, and the beautiful pumpkin cried out to Oshun. Oshun took pity on the pumpkin and brought it inside to sleep with her in her bed. This frustrated Oshun’s husband, Orunmila, who angrily threw the pumpkin onto the floor.

A person in a white lace dress holding a medium-sized pumpkin near her lower torso.

The Beautiful Calabaza Seeks Revenge

The pumpkin was furious at her treatment at the hands of Orunmila and sought her revenge the next day by stealing money from Orunmila that he desperately needed to pay his gatekeeper, Echu.

The Pumpkin Stokes the Fires of Animosity

But Echu was not sympathetic. He demanded Orunmila pay him or he would do whatever he needed to ruin Orunmila and Oshun’s marriage. This enmity proved to be a fortuitous outcome for the pumpkin, and she proceeded to stoke the fires of animosity.

Adding Alcohol to the Fire

The pumpkin supplied Echu with an ample amount of liquor to stimulate his malcontent but made him ensure he would not harm Oshun. Echu, fueled by an alcohol-laden haze, cycled out of control as Orunmila’s fortunes, too, began to turn for the worse with the loss of his finances.

Orunmila Confronts a Drunk Echu

The two eventually collided, as one day, a broke and destitute Orunmila returned home and tripped over a deeply inebriated Echu lying on his floor. Orunmila confronted Echu, asking him why in the world he was lying drunk on Orunmila’s floor.

Echu Blames the Pumpkin for His Drunkenness

Echu, speaking through his drunken stupor, placed the blame on the pumpkin and told Orunmila to ask her. So Orunmila went to Oshun and requested that Oshun interrogate her pumpkin and ask her how she was responsible for Echu’s debilitated condition.

Oshun Confronts the Pumpkin

Oshun confronted the pumpkin with these inquiries. The pumpkin was unwilling to admit to the charges placed before her but eventually gave up that she did steal money from Orunmila, but only to give the money to Oshun.

Slicing the Pumpkin Open for the Truth

Oshun was unconvinced the pumpkin was telling the truth, and after a while of chasing her fleeing pumpkin around the house, she captured the pumpkin and sliced her open to discover what secrets the pumpkin had been keeping from her. Within the pumpkin now split in twain were two gold coins she had stolen from Orunmila.

Oshun Eats the Pumpkin and Becomes the Guardian of Money

So, perhaps as a punishment or probably because there’s no good reason to let a good pumpkin go to waste, Oshun consumed the pumpkin. It is through this tale that Oshun came to be known as the Guardian of Money.

Pumpkin Fun Facts

Pumpkin seeds are also known as pepitas in North America, from the Spanish pepita de calabaza, which means “little seed of squash.”

What Parts of the Pumpkin Are Edible?

All parts of the pumpkin plant — seeds, shell, leaves, and flowers — are edible.

Is Pumpkin a Winter Squash?

All pumpkins are a form of winter squash.

A field full of pumpkins with a home in the background during sunset.

FDA Disclaimer

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True Love Spell with Orange Peels

Orange fruits under selective focus photography.

True Love Spell with Orange Peels

You can use orange peels, along with other herbs for love such as hibiscus, periwinkle leaf, violet, and jasmine to create a mojo that attracts true love. This mojo will act as a hand in the darkness, pointing out the path that leads to the one which complements you. It will also help light the way for your true love to find you.

Including Hibiscus Blossoms for Magical Potency

Hibiscus blossoms are a typical addition to love sachets and incense. Including them in your love mojo will likewise increase its magical potency. Not to mention, hibiscus blossoms have the added benefit of being sexually arousing. This might prove helpful once you’ve connected with the love of your life.

Adding Periwinkle to Increase Passionate Feelings

Periwinkle, known as the “sorcerer’s violet,” is also a popular addition to love spells. Periwinkle is used in love magic to increase passionate feelings. Include this powerful herb in your love mojo, and you can also sprinkle any extra under the bed to excite your bedroom activities.

A spread of jasmine focus, with some in focus and some out of focus.

Including Jasmine for Attracting Your Soulmate

Adding jasmine brings a unique element to the magic of your mojo bag. Like the other included herbs, jasmine has myriad connections with love magic, for starters. But what makes jasmine remarkable is that it is particularly suited for helping you attract your soulmate.

Creating the Mojo

Place these herbs and your dried orange peels in a red flannel bag, a customary vessel for a mojo. To solidify the magic, you’ll want to personally choose an element to add to the ingredients of the charm. This ingredient can be another herb that expresses the energy you want to represent, a crystal that carries special meaning, an amulet, and so forth.

A close-up of orange blossoms and orange fruit.

Animate the True Love Mojo

Once you’ve included your magical components in your mojo bag, it’s time to animate it and bring it to life. You can accomplish this by lightly passing the bag through the smoke from a candle or incense. You can also breathe on the mojo bag or say prayers and incantations over it that align with your desires.

Dressing the Charm for True Love

After you’ve completed preparing your mojo, the next step is dressing it with a fluid of some sort. This liquid can be alcohol, water, perfume, or even bodily fluids if you are so inclined. This action will feed the spirit inside the mojo, keeping it and its magic alive and doing the work you set out for it to do.

Your True Love Mojo with Orange Peels is Complete!

And with that, your mojo is complete. When working with mojos dealing with love magic, you want to conceal it and wear it somewhere against your skin. Additionally, always keep in mind as you’re preparing your charm and putting it to use that this is not a spell to force someone to love you. Instead, it is a spell to help you find your true love and vice versa.

FDA Disclaimer

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You should not use the information on this website for the diagnosis or treatment of any health problem. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new vitamins, supplements, diet, or exercise program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem. Any testimonials on this website are based on individual results and do not constitute a guarantee that you will achieve the same results.

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The Fertile Berry: Pomegranate Fertility Magic

Pomegranates Fertility Magic

When a fruit or plant has bountiful seeds, such as chickweed or pumpkin, we deal with abundant fertility magic. The kernels are where the magic begins. A forest unfolds from but a small grain. Likewise, a plant such as a pomegranate that can house hundreds of seeds is also ripe with the energy that begets new life and worlds.

Harnessing the Fertile Magic of Pomegranate

You can utilize this fecund power in your everyday life. Perhaps the most obvious use is for those wishing to start a family. Though ultimately, it’s up to Nature and the will of the Divine whether or not someone can bring a new life into the world, Pomegranate can help nudge the hands of fate in the desired direction.

Does Pomegranate Juice Help with Implantation?

Furthermore, if you doubt the magic, consider the science. Research shows that drinking pomegranate juice can help women maintain a healthy uterine lining by increasing blood flow to the area, making implantation easier.

Pomegranate Juice for Male Fertility

For men, pomegranate juice not only increases sperm count but increases sperm mobility as well. Pomegranate lends its power to those wishing to conceive both spiritually and materially.

More Benefits to Pomegranate’s Fertile Magic

However, for those not looking to conceive a child, there are other ways to enjoy the blessing fertility brings. Fertility means a wellspring of new ideas. For the heart, it’s more than enough love to share. And for wealth, fertility breeds abundance.

Pomegranate Fertility Spell: Seeds of Fertility

You can usher in the winds of fruitfulness by eating pomegranate seeds. Keep your intentions in mind while enjoying each bite.

Goddess Fertility Magic with Pomegranate

Alternatively, you can commit pomegranate skin and arils to the ground, burying them in the Earth with a wish. The Earth is the quintessential cradle of life. Her womb is where all genesis begins. She will hear and — Goddess willing — grant your wish.

Pomegranate Fun Fact: Seeds Sink, Pulp Does Not

Pomegranate seeds sink while the pulp does not, which makes it easier to separate the seeds from the pulp when placed in water.

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Manifesting Wealth and Abundance with Pomegranate

The pomegranate fruit’s associations with wealth and affluence are myriad. For starters, the fruit is replete with seeds, and many seeds yield many opportunities.

Abundance Starts with a Seed

From one pomegranate seed can come a pomegranate tree, and from that tree comes more fruit…which leads to more pomegranate seeds. Eventually, once enough time has passed, that one pomegranate seed can develop a pomegranate grove — and a very prosperous grove-tender!

The Crown of Pomegranate

Additionally, the pomegranate fruit’s sepal — the ridges you can find at the top of the fruit — almost resemble a crown. As crowns are something we typically associate with royalty and immense wealth, the sepal encourages thoughts of affluence and regency.

Pomegranate Fun Fact: King Solomon’s Crown

It is rumored that the pomegranate fruit’s sepal inspired the design of the great King Solomon’s crown.

Pomegranate: The Money Tree

Pomegranate is not only associated with wealth, but it attracts it like a magnet. If you are fortunate enough to have a pomegranate tree planted near your home, understand that it acts as a proverbial money tree, beckoning the blessings of affluence and prosperity to your abode.

Pleasing Beneficial Spirits with Pomegranate Incense

Otherwise, if you do not have a pomegranate tree on hand, rest assured that the seeds and skin can be employed to attract money and wealth as well. For instance, if you’re inclined to incense-making, pomegranate peels can be dried and used to make an incense powder that, when burned, pleases the spirits who are keen to bless you with prosperity.

Pomegranate Peel Tea Aligns with Wealth

Additionally, the peels can be used to be a tea that you can drink to align your spirit with the opportunities that will bring wealth.

Pomegranate Fun Fact: Pomegranate Bonsai

Older, more mature specimens of pomegranate are often used for bonsai due to the peculiar way the bush’s bark twists and its characteristic red flowers.

Wishmaking with Pomegranate

The Pomegranate seeds within the fruit are multitude — much like the stars themselves. Correspondingly, just like the stars, it is said you can wish on a pomegranate and have your wish come true. By keeping your wish in mind while consuming a pomegranate, it helps set and seal the intention into the universe.

What is Your Heart’s Desire?

Additionally, as pomegranates are prone to attract beneficial energies, perhaps they will attract the object of your desire, and your wish will come true. What is your heart’s desire? Perhaps you’re dreaming about a home in the mountains near a lake. Or maybe you want to spite your black thumb and grow a thick and luxuriant Sage plant from seed.

Set Your Intention and Cast a Spell

And what about that longing you have to open a cozy, relaxing coffee shop? Is your heart still set on that goal? Whatever your yearning may be, it won’t come to fruition unless you set the intention. Make a wish. Cast a spell.

Manifesting Your Heart’s Desire with Pomegranate

Like attracts like. And Pomegranate, in all its plenitude, attracts plentiful things. To manifest the magic, try this simple meditation. Picture the object of your desire with your mind’s eye.

Draw Your Wish with Pomegranate Seeds

Once you have it in mind, take some pomegranate seeds and arrange them on a dish in the shape of the thing you want. Don’t worry about going overboard on details — this isn’t an art project. It’s a spell.

Visualize and Draw Your Wish with Pomegranate Seeds

Visualize your dream in as much detail as possible as you place every seed. Once you feel you have a clear enough picture in your mind and a decent enough portrayal on your plate, proceed to eat the pomegranate seeds. Envision yourself drawing the thing you desire closer and closer as you draw each seed to your lip.

Pomegranate seeds overflowing from a decorative China cup.

Accept and Trust the Magic

Once you’ve finished eating the pomegranate seeds, allow yourself to accept that the wish has been granted. Bury the skin and anything leftover from the pomegranate within the Earth to complete your wish.

Pomegranate Fun Fact: Lovely Blooms

Pomegranate trees have strikingly beautiful, bright red flowers, and some fruitless versions of the pomegranate tree are grown for the flowers alone.

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Pomegranates and Blood Magic Witchcraft

Blood Magic in Incredibly Potent

Moreover, when we include it in a spell or ritual, it greatly potentiates the effectiveness of that spell by orders of magnitude. In fact, because of the sheer potency of its power, it’s generally accepted that blood magic should be used for only the most grave of circumstances.

Only Use Blood Magic for Serious Circumstances

If you need serious protection because of a threat to your life, it might be okay to use a little blood in your protection spell. If you’re simply trying to gird yourself against the negativity from other people, perhaps consider something milder, like yarrow or even lilac.

Use Your Blood, Not Someone Else’s

That said, if you need to use blood in your magical practice, there is the small matter of…where to source it. You should typically use only your blood in blood magic, and just a few drops are needed. However, procuring the blood can be a little painful. Not to mention, working with real blood can be a bit too graphic for some.

Pomegranate Juice is a Painless Replacement in Blood Magic

And this is where pomegranate comes in. The deep, crimson color of the pomegranate seeds is very much similar to blood’s sanguine flush. Additionally, it’s painless to retrieve — unless you cut your thumb on the peel or with the cutting knife. Finally, pomegranate is less disturbing than blood as a magical reagent and perhaps safer to use.

Though Not Blood, Pomegranate Retains the Same Power

It’s important to remember, however, that just because you are using pomegranate as a substitute for blood in your blood spell, it doesn’t make the spell any less potent. Likewise, if you use pomegranate in this regard, it should still be employed for powerful magic only and not trifle matters.

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A large, dried pomegranate was found in the tomb of Djehuty, Queen Hatshepsut’s butler.

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From Pineapple Tea to Tepache! How to Use Pineapple Skins

Pineapple Peel Tea

Instead of wasting that pineapple peel, why not turn it into great-tasting and beneficial tea? A popular drink in Jamaica, pineapple peel tea gives you the opportunity to be resourceful with your pineapple peels. Not to mention it’s incredibly healthy as it contains vitamins and minerals that promote healthy digestive health, soothe arthritis pain, and fight cancer.

Pineapple Peel Tea is incredibly easy to make. For starters, using organic pineapple is ideal, as it lessens the likelihood of pesticides and also provides for a more nutrient-rich brew. Moreover, before you cut the pineapple skin off of your pineapple, make sure to scrub it really well using a veggie wash if available, or soak it in vinegar for half an hour.

Both pineapple peel and core can be included in your brew. It’s quite common to include a little ginger to give the pineapple tea some pop, as well as sugar or maple syrup if you prefer. You can also add turmeric to send its healing power into overdrive, or even orange peels, cloves, and nutmeg to give it a mulled twist.

A glass of frothy pineapple tea with a spice sprinkled on top, sitting on a wooden table.

Adding cinnamon as well can give your pineapple tea an autumnal vibe. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, you can even add a little rum. Additionally, Pineapple Peel Tea tastes great as a hot drink during the colder months, or cold to refresh and stay cool during the summer.

Pineapple Peel Tea contains bromelain, a metabolite that helps to promote a healthy digestive system, prevent blood clots and help fight arthritis pain, among many other benefits. So as you enjoy your wonderful glass of pineapple peel tea, remember that you are doing your body a big favor as well.

Pineapple Vinegar

Pineapple vinegar is an excellent way to save your pineapple skins from the garbage and compost. It’s incredibly easy to make, with most of the ingredients and components being items you can usually find around the home and pantry. Moreover, pineapple vinegar provides a great way to improve your digestion and boost your immune system.

To start you will want to make sure that you clean your pineapple thoroughly with a vegetable brush, minimizing the chance that your vinegar is contaminated. Likewise, the jar you are using will need to be sterilized as well. There are many methods to do this, which can include microwaving the jar for a brief period of time, boiling it, or using vinegar.

Two glass jars of pineapple vinegar sitting on a cutting board in the grass.

The next step is dissolving some water and sugar in the glass jar, then adding your pineapple skins. When you’re filling it with the pineapple skins, make sure to leave about a centimeter of space at the top of the jar. Once this is complete, cover the jar with breathable material, like cheesecloth, a paper towel, or another otherwise light fabric, and secure it with a rubber band.

Your pineapple vinegar will need about 2-3 weeks in a cool, dark place like your cupboard or pantry before it is matured enough to use. During this time, you will want to open and stir it daily to help aerate the mixture. Once time enough has arrived, strain the pineapple vinegar of its scraps using a cheesecloth, then place the pineapple vinegar into sterile bottles and seal them.

At this point, you are more than welcome to make use of your homemade pineapple vinegar, but allowing it to sit for another week or so will deepen the flavor. Furthermore, this pineapple vinegar can be used in many of the ways you already use vinegar.

Making Zoborodo (Zobo Drink) with Pineapple Peels

Pineapple peels are oftentimes combined with dried hibiscus flowers to make a Nigerian drink called Zoborodo or Zobo for short. In this deep purple drink, it’s common to include ingredients such as garlic, ginger, and even cloves, making it a powerful healthy beverage. Moreover, it seems that the drink is quite effective in lowering high blood pressure.

Hibiscus flowers are not only incredibly nutritious, but their sweet and tangy flavor makes for an excellent beverage, and the natural sweetness of pineapple skins only compliments that. In fact, many parts of the world are quite fond of using hibiscus flowers in beverages. For instance, in Panama dried hibiscus calyces are used to make saril, with additional ingredients that very much resemble zobo.

A glass cup of deep red sorrel hibiscus tea.

Preparing Zoborodo

For our purposes, we’re going to focus on the Nigerian Zobo drink since it provides another wonderful way for us to use our pineapple skins. Making Zobo is surprisingly easy as it’s basically just making tea, but adding a few choice ingredients. Garlic, ginger, and cloves appear to be relatively consistent additions, but it’s okay to get creative and add lemongrass and even ancho chiles.

Be sure to wash your pineapple’s skin thoroughly before you use it, to ensure that your drink isn’t contaminated by dirt and germs. The hibiscus flowers as well — or “zobo leaves” — will also need to be rinsed. Don’t be alarmed when you notice the hibiscus flowers “bleeding” their color as you rinse as there will be plenty left for your zobo brew.

Two glass cups of hibiscus tea near cinnamon sticks, apple slices, and dried hibiscus flowers.

Add the zobo leaves to a deep pot, and on top of those add your pineapple peels. Next, add enough water to cover the contents of the pot plus a little more. Boil for about 5 minutes, then introduce some finely chopped ginger and garlic and boil for 30 mins more to allow the contents to become tender. Once time has arrived, turn off the heat and allow your zobo to cool completely.

You’ll want to do due diligence in draining out the food particles to produce the best juice, so straining it multiple times through a cheesecloth, sieve, and even finer grain cloth like chiffon as you progress is advised. Afterwhich, if you want to add extra ingredients, such as lemon or orange, now is the time to do so. Bottle and refrigerate your Zobodoro to store it and enjoy!

Pineapple Peels and Tepache!

Tepache is a quick and easy way to take your pineapple peels and turn them into something fun, flirty, and delicious. It is a recipe that dates back from Pre-Colombian Mexico and is made by fermenting pineapple peels for several days. Tepache is typically sweetened with unrefined cane sugar called piloncillo or brown sugar.

While you can easily order Tepache in many juice bars or traditional Mexican restaurants — especially in the Southwest — equally as simple is the ability to make Tepache right from your home. It requires minimal components: a clean glass jar, pineapple peels, water, and sugar.

Although Tepache is created by fermenting pineapples, its rather light on the alcohol content, but you can add a little beer to give it more punch. Likewise, the recipe is not harmed at all by adding a sprinkle of cinnamon, which is common.

Close-up on a glass of tepache with a white and red striped straw.

Preparing the Tepache

To start, you’ll want to wash your pineapple thoroughly and mindfully with a vegetable brush to remove germs and dirt. Next, cut the peel off the pineapple, being generous with the amount of pineapple flesh you leave on the peel. About 1-inch thick peels should do the trick.

Now it’s time to dissolve the sugar in your glass jar, using a little bit of water. Add the pineapple skins, then introduce enough water to completely submerge the pineapple skins. You’ll want to push the pineapple skins well into the bottom of the jar and even weigh them down with something like a wooden spoon or a fermentation weight. This is because complete immersion is necessary to prevent mold from ruining your Tepache.

A half-drunken bottle of Tepache on a tile surface near a plate of Mexican food and leafy greens.

You’re coming to the last step, which is to cover your jar of Tepache with a breathable cloth, such as layers of paper towel or a clean dish cloth, and put it away. Store your Tepache at room temperature in a dark space for about 1-3 days.

You’ll know the brew is done and the Tepache is sufficiently fermented when you see bubbles on the top. Be sure to taste it throughout the process to make sure the flavor is to your liking, keeping in mind that the longer it ferments, the less sweet it will be. Once you’re sure you have an enjoyable result, store your Tepache in the refrigerator to stop the fermentation.

…Or, if you want to continue on to what is called the “second fermentation” — an optional step, but recommended if you want a fizzier brew — check out Live Eat Learn for complete directions as well as more tips to make your best Tepache.

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