Herbs can be found almost anywhere. They grow in our front yards; along country roads; beside streams; in deserts; on mountaintops; in drowsy forests; on disturbed ground. Many are nourished in gardens, both culinary and magical.
Some herbalists today state that using plants that are native to the area and that are locally grown produces better results, for the herbs and the magician are attuned by living on the same ground. This limits the number of herbs that can be used, for these plants require a wide variety of growing conditions, and those used in magic come from around the globe.
Fortunately, we have other sources. Herbs that can be found growing nearby can be bought in supermarkets, herb and health food stores, and from occult supply shops. The few herbs that are virtually unobtainable today are rarely called for, and so are almost forgotten today. Everything else is available.
People often ask questions such as, "Do I have to buy my herbs in a magic store? Can I use the ones from the supermarket?" The answer is most definitely yes. Many herbs are more difficult to find, but those available in the markets (cinnamon, cloves, bay, thyme and so on) can certainly be used.
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