THE MAGIC KITCHEN

BY CELLI LAUGHING COYOTE

PRUNUS AMYGDALUS

Because the Almond tree blossoms in the spring, it is an emblem of hope. In Greek legend the Almond is connected with Phyllis, a Thracian princess who was deserted on her wedding day by the Greek prince Demophon. She finally died of a broken heart, after waiting many years for him. In sympathy the gods transformed her into an Almond tree, the symbol of hope. In Christian medieval art, the Almond is a symbol of divine approval. This symbolism is based on a biblical passage ( Numbers 17:1-8) in which the Rod of Aaron ( presumably made from an Almond tree) grew buds, flowers, and ripe Almonds as a sign that God had chosen Aaron and his tribe of Levi to be the priests of Israel.

It is masculine or active in nature, it is ruled by air and Mercury. Almonds are sacred to Attis, Mercury, Thoth, and Hermes. Magically, Almond, as well as the leaves and wood, are used in success and money spells. Climbing an Almond tree is said to ensure success in business. Carrying Almonds will lead you to treasures. Magical wands are made of Almond wood for it is a plant of air. Use it for divination or spells of intelligence.

A little beauty hint. For a good cleansing facial scrub, include ground Almonds in your mixture. Their soothing and softening properties also make them suitable as elements in cosmetics.

ALMOND FACIAL MASK

Pulverized Almonds made into a paste with a small amount of liquid. Best for oily skin, Almonds soften the skin, cleanse it with their abrasive action and nourish it with protein. Most facial masks are applied to the skin warm, left on for 15 or 20 minutes and the washed off with warm water followed by a cold rinse. Do not apply mask to the eye area. Your face should be clean before applying mask.

Crushed Almonds are good for "trail mixes" (food you take when you go camping, hiking or horse - back riding). I do like chocolate covered Almonds and they are good for toppings on cakes. Almond butter makes a rich protein substitute for peanut butter, usually well tolerated by diabetics. It is also nice change from peanut butter.

It's herbal uses are as a demulcent (sooths irritated tissue, particularly mucous membrane), emollient (extrernally to soften and soothe), and pectoral (remedy for pulomanary or other chest diseases). For a good cleansing facial scrub, include ground Almonds in your preparation. Their emollient properties also make them suitable as ingredients in cosmetics. The oil derived from bitter Almonds has sedative properties and is sometimes used in cough remedies. The oil from sweet Almonds makes a comforting component in internal medications and can also be used externally as an emollient. Almond butter makes a rich protein substitute for peanut butter, usually well tolerated by diabetics. It is a nice change from peanut butter.