Of the Birthdays Feb 1 & 2

Crystals

Malachite

Green

Concentric light and dark bands and rosettes

Easily obtained

Romania, Zambia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Russia, Middle East

Malachite is a powerful stone but one that needs to be handled with caution. It is best used under the supervision of a qualified crystal therapist. It is toxic and should only be used in its polished form. Avoid breathing its dust. 

Malachite amplifies both positive and negative energies. It grounds spiritual energies onto the planet. It is believed by some people that Malachite is still evolving and will be one of the most important healing stones of the new millennium. 

Merlinite

Black and White

Two distinct opaque colors

Becoming more readily available

New Mexico

Merlinite is a magical stone that holds the imprint of the combined knowledge of shamans, alchemists, magician-priests, and other workers of magic. It's dual coloring blends the spiritual and earthy vibrations together, giving access to the spiritual and shamanic realms. 

Herb

Coriander

Parts Used: Ripe seeds. 

Collection: The flowering heads (umbels) are collected in the late summer and left to ripen. the seeds are then easily collected as they can be shaken off. 

This exquisite spice is used medicinally as an herb that helps the digestive system get rid of wind and ease the spasm pain (colic) that sometimes accompanies it. It will also ease diarrhea, especially in children. It may be used an an equivalent to "gripe water," which is usually made from Dill Seeds. The oil acts as a stimulant to the stomach, increasing secretion of digestive juices and thus also stimulating the appetite. 

Infusion: Pour a cup of boiling water onto 1 teaspoonful of the bruised seeds and let infuse for five minutes in a closed pot. This should be drunk before meals. 

Corn Silk

Parts Used: Stigmas from the female flowers of maize or corn. Fine soft threads 4-8 inches long. 

Collection: The stigmas should be collected just before pollination occurs, the timing of which depends upon climate. It is best used fresh as some of the activity is lost with time. 

As a soothing diuretic, Corn Silk is helpful in any irritation of the urinary system. It is used for renal problems in children and as a urinary demulcent combined with other herbs in the treatment of cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis, and the like

Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water onto 2 teaspoonfuls of the fresh or dried herb and leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day. 

Birthdays

Aquarius (January 20- February 18)

Element: Air
Ruling Planets: Saturn, The teacher and Uranus, The Visionary
Symbol: The Water Carrier
Tarot Card: The Star (Hope)
Number: 4
Favorable colors: Blue, Turquoise, Yellow
Key phrase: I express my original ideas
Love matches: Gemini, Leo, and Aquarius

February 1 

"The secret of my success is self-understanding"

The birthday of the spectacular turnaround

Your greatest challenge is coping with feeling unsure about what to do with your life. 

On the Dark Side: Stubborn, fickle, self-absorbed

At Your Best: Inspiring, original, mentally quick

February 2

"Today I will let my inner guide decide for me"

The birthday of elegance.

Your greatest challenge is learning how to let down your guard.
On the Dark Side: Uncompassionate, aloof, stubborn
At Your Best: Elegant, stylish, dynamic

Birthstone