Of the Birthday March 22-23

Crystals

Turquoise

Turquoise, Green or Blue

Opaque, often veined 

Easily obtained

US, Egypt (on the list 2ce in this book, must really be in Egypt!), Mexico, China, Iran, Peru, Poland, Russia, France, Tibet, Afghanistan, Arabia

Turquoise is a most efficient healer, providing solace for the spirit and well-being for the body. It is a protecive stone and has been used for amulets since time immemorial. 

Ulexite

Transparent

Clear, silky, squarish crystal, sometimes lightly striated, magnifies

Easily obtained

US

Ulexite is best known for its ability to magnify anything placed under it. It is an extremely clear stone and brings things into focus on the inner and spiritual levels, lending much-needed objectivity and clarity. 

Herbs

Ipecacuanha

Parts Used: Root and rhizome.

Collection: The root of this small South American shrub is gathered throughout the year, although the native South Americans collect it when it is in flower during January and February. 

Ipecacuanha is mainly used as an expectorant in bronchitis and conditions such as whooping cough. At higher doses it is a powerful emetic and as such is used in the treatment of poisoning. Care must be taken in use of this herb. After an effective emetic dose has been given large amounts of water should be taken as well. In the same way that Ipecacuanha helps expectoration through stimulation of mucous secretion and then its removal, it stimulates the production of saliva. It has been found effective in the treatment of amebic dysentry. 

Infusion: as this is a very powerful herb, only a small amount should be used. Only 10-25 milligrams of the herb should be used for an infusion. Pour a cup of boiling water onto a small amount of the herb (equaling the size of a pea) and leave to infuse for five minutes. This can be drunk three times a day. If you need to use it as a powerful emetic, 1-2 grams should be used, which equals 1/4- 1/2 teaspoonful when used for an infusion. 

Irish Moss

Common Name: Carragheen 

Parts Used: The dried thallus. It is a seaweed

Collection: It is collected from the rocky coastlines of northwestern Europe, especially Ireland, all year round at low tide.

The mucilage present in this plant is used in large quantities by the food industry to make jellies or aspic and to be used as a smooth binder. This very property is the basis of its use in digestive conditions where a demulcent is called for, such as gastritis and ulcers. However, its main use is in respiratory problems such as bronchitis. It finds a use in cosmetics as a skin softener. 

Infusion: Pour a cup of boiling water onto 1- 1 1/2 teaspoonfuls of the dried herb and leave to infuse for 10 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day. 

Birthdays

Aries ( March 21 - April 19)

Element: Fire

Ruling Planets: Mars, the warrior

Symbol: The Ram

Tarot card: The Emperor (authority)

Number: 9

Favorable colors: Red and White

Key phrase: I am born to lead 

Love Matches: Leo, Libra, and Sagittarius

March 22

"Today, I will say 'I want to' not 'I should'''

The birthday of frankness.

Your greatest challenge is learning to show tact

On the Dark Side: Overbearing, unaware, proud

At Your Best: Reliable, confident, curious

March 23

"The love in my heart refreshes and restores me"

The birthday of the eternal student.

Your greatest challenge is to pay attention to your emotional needs.

On the Dark Side: Skeptical, uninvolved, insecure

At Your Best: Progressive, insightful, flexible.

Birthstone