The Real Witches’ Kitchen: Spells, recipes, oils, lotions and potions from the Witches’ Hearth

2 drops sandalwood oil

1 drop orange oil

Divination Bath

Before undertaking any kind of divination, or to promote prophetic dreams, have a long soak in this formula. It is best to do this by candlelight and not to use a base oil or foam or any other scented products (such as soap).

Take 2 crushed bay leaves and 1 tablespoonful of thyme, add to 1 pint of very hot water and leave to stand for an hour. Strain this liquid and add to your bath with:

5 drops lemongrass oil

2 drops myrrh oil

To Promote a Good Night’s Sleep

This is an excellent bath to take just before bed and is also suitable for children over the age of two (for those under two, omit the valerian). Don’t use it every night, as you can easily become accustomed to the effects and find that it doesn’t work when you really need it.

6 drops lavender oil

2 drops valerian oil (1 drop for children over two years)

Colds and ’Flu

As soon as you feel the onset of a cold, have a long relaxing soak in the following:

4 drops lavender oil

2 drops eucalyptus oil

2 drops jasmine oil

1 drop cinnamon oil

1 drop ginger oil

After bathing, wrap up warmly and go to bed with a warm drink.

Wake-Up Bath

This is excellent for those mornings when you feel sluggish or have a busy day ahead or even for the morning after the night before. Try to have the bath quite cool and stay in the water for at least 10 minutes to let the oils take effect.

3 drops rose oil

3 drops rosemary oil

3 drops rosewood oil

After Exercise

When you have exerted yourself and feel that you should ward off muscular aches and pains, try this one:

3 drops lavender oil

3 drops camomile oil

2 drops lemongrass oil

2 drops rosemary oil

Romance Bath

When preparing for a romantic encounter, whether out on a date or at home with a loved one, soak yourself in the following:

2 drops sandalwood oil

2 drops jasmine oil

1 drop neroli oil

1 drop ylang ylang oil

If you really want to add spice to the encounter, add 1 drop of cardamom oil, but be prepared for the results!

Self-Care Bath

We all have times in our lives when we need to care for our own physical, mental and emotional state. In fact most of us neglect ourselves in these respects far too often. But if you do not look after yourself, how are you going to do the best for those you care for? Take time out at least once a week to treat yourself. Make the environment as pleasant as you can – perhaps light candles around the bath and play some soothing music. Above all, turn off the phone and lock the door to make sure you are not disturbed even by your near and dear. Then relax in the following:

2 drops frankincense oil

2 drops jasmine oil

2 drops sandalwood oil

2 drops ylang ylang oil

1 drop rose oil

1 drop ginger oil

Stress Relief Bath

This is for those times when the world really has been getting on top of you and you feel really stressed out!

8 drops neroli oil

4 drops clary sage oil

4 drops lavender oil