Magical Oils 101

A History of Magical Oils

Author Sandra Kynes, who wrote Mixing Essential Oils for Magic, says "Aromatic plants in the form of oil and incense were elements of religious and therapeutic practices in early cultures worldwide. In addition, anointment with perfumes and fragrant oils was an almost universal practice."

In some folk magic traditions, such as Hoodoo, oils can be used for both anointing people and objects, such as candles. In some magical systems, such as various forms of Hoodoo, candle dressing oils are also used to anoint the skin, so many oils are blended in a way that is skin-safe. This way, they can be used for dressing candles and charms, but also can be worn on your body.

How to Make Your Own Blends

While many commercial vendors would have you believe that there's some Super Secret Magical Method for blending oils, it's actually pretty simple. First, determine your intent — whether you're creating a money oil to bring you prosperity, a love oil to boost your romantic encounters, or a ritual oil to use in ceremonies.

Once you've determined your intent, assemble the essential oils called for in the recipes. In a clean container, add 1/8 Cup of your base oil — this should be one of the following:

• Safflower
• Grapeseed
• Jojoba
• Sunflower
• Almond

Using an eyedropper, add the essential oils in the recipes. Be sure to follow the recommended proportions. To mix, don't stir... swirl. Swish the essential oils into the base oil by swirling in a clockwise direction. Finally, consecrate your oils if your tradition requires it - and not all do. Make sure you store your oil blends in a place away from heat and moisture. Keep them in dark-colored glass bottles, and be sure to label them for use. Write the date on the label, and use within six months.

There are a number of ways you can use your oils in a ritual setting. They are often rubbed on candles for use in spellwork - this blends the powerful energies of the oil with the magical symbolism of the candle's color and the energy of the flame itself.

Sometimes, oils are used to anoint the body. If you are blending an oil to use for this purpose, be sure that you're not including any ingredients that are irritating to the skin. Some essential oils, such as frankincense and clove, will cause a reaction in sensitive skin and should only be used very sparingly, and diluted heavily before use. Oils applied to the body bring the wearer the energies of the oil — an Energy Oil will give you a much-needed boost, a Courage Oil will give you strength in the face of adversity.

Finally, crystals, amulets, talismans and other charms may be anointed with the magical oil of your choice. This is a great way to turn a simple mundane item into an item of magical power and energy.

Magical Oil Recipes

Blessing Oil

This oil can be blended together in advance and used for any ritual requiring blessing, anointing or consecration oil. Use this blend of sandalwood, patchouli, and other scents when welcoming guests into a ritual circle, for anointing a new baby, consecrating magical tools, or any number of other magical purposes.

To make Blessing Oil, use 1/8 Cup base oil of your choice. Add the following:

• 5 drops Sandalwood
• 2 drops Camphor
• 1 drop Orange
• 1 drop Patchouli

As you blend the oils, visualize your intent, and take in the aroma. Know that this oil is sacred and magical. Label, date, and store in a cool, dark place.

Protection Oil

Blend up a bit of magical protection oil to keep yourself safe from psychic and magical attacks. This magical blend that includes lavender and mugwort can be used around your home and property, your car, or on people whom you wish to protect.

To make Protection Oil, use 1/8 Cup base oil of your choice. Add the following:

• 4 drops Patchouli
• 3 drops Lavender 
• 1 drop Mugwort
• 1 drop Hyssop

As you blend the oils, visualize your intent, and take in the aroma. Know that this oil is sacred and magical. Label, date, and store in a cool, dark place.

Use Protection Oil to anoint yourself and those in your home. It will help keep you safe from psychic or magical attacks.

Gratitude Oil

Looking for a special oil blended for a gratitude ritual? Mix up a batch of this oil that features oils associated with thankfulness and gratitude, including rose and vetivert. 

To make Gratitude Oil, use 1/8 Cup base oil of your choice. Add the following:

• 5 drops Rose
• 2 drops Vetivert
• 1 drop Agrimony
• A pinch of ground cinnamon

Label, date, and store in a cool, dark place.

Money Oil

Blend this oil up ahead of time, and use in rituals calling for abundance, prosperity, good fortune, or financial success. Money spells are popular in many magical traditions, and you can incorporate this into your workings to bring prosperity your way.

To make Money Oil, use 1/8 Cup base oil of your choice. Add the following:

• 5 drops Sandalwood
• 5 drops Patchouli
• 2 drops Ginger
• 2 drops Vetivert
• 1 drop Orange

As you blend the oils, visualize your intent, and take in the aroma. Label, date, and store in a cool, dark place.

Resources

Want to learn more about blending and brewing your own magical oils? Be sure to check out some of these great resources:

• Sandra Kynes: Mixing Essential Oils for Magic - Aromatic Alchemy for Personal Blends
• Scott Cunningham: The Complete Book of Incense, Oils and Brews
• Celeste Rayne Heldstab: Llewellyn's Complete Formulary of Magical Oils - Over 1200 Recipes, Potions & Tinctures for Everyday Use