Healing Herbs,Herb craft

Rose (Healing herbs)

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Roses have been used since ancient times, revered for their medicinal properties and loved for their romantic associations.

To zinc with my previous post about the Goddess Aphrodite I hope you enjoy my findings.

The rose associated with the Goddess Aphrodite, love, beauty, purity and passion.

According to Anacreon the poet, dripping seafoam from the body of Aphrodite as she is born, turns into white roses, representing her purity and innocence. Later, she tries to help Adonis, her wounded lover. A few drops of blood trickle from Aphrodite onto a white rose changing it to red. This possibly represents desire and passion.

Roses also appear as the mischievous symbol of love and earthly desires and are often associated with Eros.

In some Greek folklore, the magic of roses illistrated when a hero prince leans over a sleeping princess to kiss her, thereafter receives a pair of roses.

He then uses their magical powers to escape his evil pursuers. This was a story named “The Monk”.

It is believed the love he holds for the princess saves him.

Roses are also attributed to Flora Goddess of flowers and spring time.

As far as medicinal purposes, roses are a mild seditive, aswell as an antiseptic, anti parasitic and an anti inflammatory.

Rose petals can be used topically to treat wounds and rashes.

Tonics and teas can be drunk as a means of lowering cholesterol and attaining better heart health aswell as treating sore throats and ulsers.

Roses are known to stimulate the liver and increase circulation and known to relieve headaches.

Helps with respiratory problems such as asthma.

Being a mild laxative this can help with constipation and cramps.

Amazingly rose can help regulate menstrual circles and enhance mood.

Their anti inflammatory properties can also bring down a fever.

Roses are an anti viral which can be used to aid the recovery from colds and flus.

Rose hip is especially useful for joint care helping conditions such as arthritis.

High in vitamins C, D, A, E and B3 Roses have strong antioxidant properties due to flavonoids too.

Rose hip also is high in iron.

Rose has long been used in beauty products for its hydrating and anti aging properties.

In magical practices and spell craft.

Roses are often use in love and beauty spells,

Rose petals sprinkled into a bath to enhance self love and bring you into a better sense of being.

When using rose in spells, red roses can ignite passion in a relationship, lust and increase your sex appeal.

Pink roses are more self love and bringing love into your life or current relationship.

Yellow for friendship and so on.

Rose can also be used in an elixer although I’m not writing any spells in this post.

Rose can be drunk in infusions some of my favorite are paired with other flowers, roots or herbs like camomile for example.

Have a wonderful day everyone ⭐

Features,Healing Herbs,Herb craft

Lavender (Healing herbs)

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Lavender : Folk name Elf leaf

Lavender is a member of the mint family.

There are several types of lavender from English lavender, Lavandula officinalis to the Portuguese variety, Lavandula latifolia also french which refer to atleast two species Lavandula dentata and Lavandula stoechas which is also refered to as spanish lavender to name a few.

With fragrant purple flowers used since ancient times, today uses include helping against anxiety, insomnia, depression and a range of mental health issues.

Lavender is also used to treat headaches, toothaches, acne, skin irritation, insect bites, hair loss, high blood pressure and nausea.

Most commonly used in aromatherapy to relax and relieve stress also used as a sleep aid.

Lavender is known to have antiseptic and anti inflammatory properties.

Journal of Alternative and Complimentary Medicine found that when applied topically lavender, sage and rose, could reduce the severity of menstrual cramps. They also mention that lavender oil may help in combating antifungal resistant infections.

According to the National Cancer Institute, aromatherapy helps patients manage the side effects of cancer treatment and may also help adults who suffer from dementia.

Alopecia aerate is a scalp condition responsible for hair loss. According to Archives of Dermatology, lavender oil aswell as thyme, rosemary, and cedarwood can help hair regrow over the period of several months when applied directly to the scalp.

When using oils on the skin I suggest mixing with a base oil as essential oils are concerned and may cause skin irritation.

Lavender has also shown positive results in helping with eczema, acne and sunburns.

I recommend mixing lavender with camomile into a gel with aloe vera (inner leaf) for nappy rash.

I promise to write some of my home recipies for creams and gels in another post.

In magic and spell craft lavender is an important plant. The purple flowers enhance psychic ability and can help you to remember your dreams.

Lavender perfume has been used in love spells (to invite your next love into your life) also by adding lavender to your beauty routine or beauty spell.

Burning lavender to purify a space as a smudge stick or just dipped in water in a room can remove negative energies.

Carrying a lavender flower with you in folklore was said to bring you long life.

Lavender can bring happiness by baking into cakes and cookies.

Lavender tea can be steeped for a matter of minutes then enjoyed bringing benefits of increased brain power and boost intelligence aswell as helping relax you before bed.

Lavender oil is also brilliant used as an aromatherapy while in meditation enhancing spiritual connections.

Enjoy!

Healing Herbs,Herb craft

Orchids (Healing herbs)

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As a grower of orchids, they bring me much joy, so I’ve decided to do this piece hope you enjoy it.

Orchid

Orchids are beautiful plants their flowers come in amazing varieties of different colours.

The name orchid comes from the Greek orchis, meaning testicle.

English variety of early Orchis is the “long Purples,” mentioned by Shakespeare in Hamlet and is sometimes named “Dead men’s fingers,” from the pale colour, and the hand-like shape of its tubers.

Quoted “That liberal shepherds give a grosser name,

But our cold maids do ‘dead men’s fingers’ call them.”

There are many types and species of orchids to name a few of the cool growing varieties are:

Cymbidium, Dendrobium, Odontoglossum and Miltoniopsis.

They enjoy temperatures between16°C- 21°C no temperatures below 10°C in winter

A few warm varieties are:

Phalaenopsis and Vanda. They like temperatures of between 21-29°C in summer and no less than 18°C in winter.

These make a good choice for centrally heated homes.

Orchids grown at an intermediate temperature include Cattleya, Cambria, Paphiopedalum and Oncidium. They like temperatures of between18°C-24°C.

The vitamin A and antioxidants present in orchid can make your skin healthy and young, keeping wrinkles and skin problem at bay.

They contain vitamin C and fibre assisting your immune system.

Some health benefits include releiving stress, improving air quality and improving recovery after surgery.

A study of 90 people recovering from a hemorrhoidectomy were randomly assigned to either control or plant rooms. With half the patients, live plants were placed in their rooms during postoperative recovery periods. Data collected for each patient included length of hospitalization, analgesics used for postoperative pain control, vital signs, ratings of pain intensity, pain distress, anxiety and fatigue.

Findings of this study confirmed the therapeutic value of plants in the hospital environment as a noninvasive, inexpensive, and effective complementary medicine for surgical patients.

Orchids are known to do a lot more.

Dating back to hundreds of thousands of years, orchids have been used to alleviate symptoms as well as cure sickness. Across the world in a multitude of different cultures, from Asia to Australia.

Medical professionals and horticulturalists have experimented with the use of this tropical species and have found some amazing possibilities.

According to ancient Chinese history the orchid flowers, stems and bulbs have been used in traditional Chinese medicine, some practitioners continue to use these remedies today.

Juice extracted from the orchid flower can help in relieve stomach ulsers which occur due to stomach acid. The mild compounds found in orchid can help you in relaxing and removing an ulcer condition.

Orchids tubers, roots and petals have been utilized in elixirs that are then added to teas and powders.

In most cases, orchids can be quite harmful and in some cases deadly so its best to either ask your doctor or visit a reputable health food store outlet.

I found the common house orchid to be edible since my daughter attempted to eat one as a toddler. Petrified I called 111 who assured me the only thing I needed to worry about was with any new food an allergic reaction which thankfully didn’t occur.

Obviously poisons in edible plants can be present if specific fertilisers are used instead of soil for growing fruit and veg for example.

NOT all orchid species are edible.

Dendrobium Orchids can be used to increase the immune system, has anti inflammatory properties, can increase eyesight and eliviate some symptoms of cancer.

Cymbidium Orchids can assist fertility in both men and women.

Vanda Orchids is also an anti inflammatory, can reduce fever, treat arthritis and is used by alternative practitioners as a remedy for bronchitis.

Orchids for magical purposes and spell craft:

Ochids revered for love, lust and potency.

Both the ancient Greeks and Romans believed that the Orchid could stimulate male virility and was widely used in love matters.

The famous New Orleans “jezebel root,” seemed to have been well sort after to be used by women to attract men.

I won’t write any love spells on this post but I’ll just say

that the use of Orchids (root) in love magic is not only effective, it can also be exceptionally potent.

Orchids are also associated with Beauty, Wealth, Love, Spirituality, Harmony, Concentration, Will Power, Memory.

Orchid flower can be cooked like other vegetables in a pan or grilled. It can be blitzed into juice.

Added to cakes and cocktails or just enjoy them added to salads and sauces.

Enjoy!

Healing Herbs,Herb craft

Patchouli (Healing Oil)

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Today I want to write about an oil I absolutely love.

Patchouli (pogostem cablin)

Patchouli has been used over centuries.

A bush exhibiting beautiful white and purple flowers.

The leaves can be dried, oil is also extracted from the stem.

Associated with the celtic Goddess of healing Airmid.

Also a member of the mint family.

Patchouli has long been used in magical and spiritual practices.

Originating in Asia, its uses date back centuries as an important medicine used to treat diorreah, snake and insect bites.

Also used in ancient times to prevent the spread of fevers and epidemics. This oil was also believed to strengthen the immune system.

Patchouli can be used in a variety of spell work most commonly associated with love and prosperity.

Some ritual uses are to the aspects of attraction and fertility.

Patchouli oil is known to have anti inflammatory, antifungal and antibacterial properties.

It is known to relieve symptoms of depression easing anxiety and stress.

Used topically can treat a range of skin conditions.

Some include dermatitis, acne and dry or cracked skin.

Patchouli oil has also been proven very effective as an insecticide, without being as damaging to the environment than man made pesticides.

Patchouli can be diffused as aromatherapy to better your overall mood by increasing dopamine and seritonine levels in the body these are “feel good hormones” also known to boost libido.

A less known fact about Pachouli oil is that it can help fade scars by generating new skin growth.

Patchouli oil must be diluted with a base oil when applying directly to skin or hair. Lots of love and brightest blessings

Healing Herbs,Herb craft

Geranium (Healing herb)

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Geranium

Over centuries Geranium has been used in many different ways.

In folklore, white geraniums were said to keep snakes away. Aswell as having near an open window to keep flies away.

Known in medieval Germany as Gottesgnade, which derived from this plants oldest name Odin’s grace or Odin’s flower.

Geranium roots were used as cures for sore throats and to stop internal bleeding for some American Indians.

Geranium essential oil, and rose geranium essential oil come from different varieties of the Pelargonium graveolens plant species.

Many alternative practitioners use Geranium oil to treat a variety of condition some include anxiety, depression, infection and pain.

It has also been known to treat skin conditions such as acne, aswell as other skin irritations and skin infections. In these cases the oil is usually diluted with a base oil then applied to the skin.

Geranium oil has antioxidant, antibacterial, anteseptic, antimicrobial and anti inflammatory properties.

Geranium is beneficial to Edema due to its anti inflammatory properties reducing leg and foot swelling by adding a few drops to bath water. Although as with most alternative medicines research is little and lacking in much evidence.

The geranium oil comes from the stem of the plant.

Geranium oil can also be used in aromatherapy for its soothing effects leaving an air of tranquility.

Nasal vestibulitis is an uncomfortable condition associated with cancer treatment causing bleeding, scabbing, pain, dryness, and sores.

In a study, geranium essential oil was mixed with sesame oil and used as a nasal spray in women undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer, proving effective.

Another study proved Geranium oil to be as effective as amoxicillin (penicillin) in treating bacterial infections such as staphylococcus aureus and a different bacterial strain listeria monocytogenes.

A componant in geranium inhibited nitric oxide production, reducing inflammation and cell death in the brain. This can help conditions such as alzheimer’s desease, multiple sclerosis, parkinsons disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Geranium also stimulates secretion of salivary estrogen. This can help in respect of symptoms of menopause.

Shingles can commonly result in postherpetic neuralgia. This can be very painful effecting nerve fibres and skin around the nerve.

Geranium has been proven to significantly reduce pain but had to be reapplied as effects were temporary.

Geranium has been shown to be good at helping heal wounds with its antiseptic properties aswell as being antibacterial. It speeds up coagulation by causing blood vessels to contract.

To say a few things on the Geraniums magical properties.

  • Geraniums can be planted as a bringer of good health.
  • They are known to bring aspects of love and acceptance into your heart and life.
  • Also known to bring you into balance.
  • Associated with encouraging fertility, safe pregnancy and childbirth.
  • Cranesbill Geraniums can also be carried to attract happiness, positivity and prosperity.
  • They can also be used to aid in dream work and astral travel.
  • Gerainium can also be used as an aid in chakra work.

I have added rose geranium and two cransbill geranium images.

Healing Herbs,Herb craft

Sage (Healing herbs)

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Sage can be used for many things from culinary uses, medicinal purposes to spiritual practices and spell work.

There are many different types of sage most common sage grown in the uk is Salvia officinalis or garden sage.

The Latin word “salvere”, means “to be saved” or in another translation “to feel healthy”.

Sage was used by the Ancient Egyptian to boost fertility.

Although it was traditionally used as a remedy for inflammation of the mouth and throat, as a tooth polish and gargle and an elixir of overall good health.

In around 800 AD, Charlemagne King of the Franks decreed that every farm on crown lands must grow Sage “for the benefit of the nation”.

Sage is also considered a sacred herb by Native American people, White Sage is used for purification and protection.

Native Americans also used White Sage in ceremonies of birth and death.

Sacred objects such as pipes and eagle feathers were passed through the smoke of the white sage in order to purify them.

Sage was one of the most important medicinal herbs of Medieval Europe, it was thought that Sage had the power to cure all imaginable diseases. A belief held so strongly that no self respecting Apothecary’s Garden could be without it!

Packed full of vitamins and minerals :

  • Vitamin K Manganese
  • Vitamin A Zinc
  • Vitamin C Iron
  • Vitamin E Calcium
  • Vitamin B6 Copper
  • Sage is also full of antioxidants.

Antioxidants remove free radicals from the body that could potentially cause chronic diseases.

Sage contains over 160 distinct polyphenols, which are plant-based chemical compounds that act as antioxidants in your body.

Caffeic acid, rosmarinic acid, chlorogenic acid and rutin are all found in sage and are directly linked to impressive health benefits, such as a lower risk of cancer and improved brain function and memory.

A powerful anti inflammatory this works by inhibiting enzymes linked to inflammatory responses.

Anti microbial properities in sage for example can kill Streptococcus mutansbacteria, the bacteria that causes dental cavities.

Sage may treat throat infections, dental abscesses, infected gums and mouth ulcers too.

Sage can also be used to help lower cholesterol.

Sage is used during the menopause to lessen symptoms some include hot flushes, excessive sweating, virginal dryness and irritability.

As sage is believed to have estrogen like properties.

This alows sage to bind to certain receptors in the brain to treat the above symptoms.

Sage also has been used over time as a fresh herb to alleviate diorreah symptoms, support bone health and in beauty products to combat skin aging.

Sage can be used as an oil but please be aware that it does need to be diluted with a base oil before use.

Sage is also used in aromatherapy which can purify and cleanse the space. It can also help to calm emotions and help with grief or depression whilst aiding mental focus.

Love & Bright Blessings always.

Healing Herbs,Herb craft

Elderberry (Healing Herbs)

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Eldeberry comes from the Elder tree (Sambucus nigra).

The first time I heard about Elderberry was from my grandmother. She told me how they would pick and boil the berries into a syrup to be drunk through the winter.

It can be made as a jam as I did this winter. Although I must warn you not to add pectin, as its got more than enough of its own.

It is commonly added in the the making of mead, aswell as can be found in many infusions you can buy.

It has a high vitamin C content, contains fibre, antioxidants and has potent antiviral properties.

A study conducted by Professor Fariba Deghani, Dr Golnoosh Torabian and Dr Peter Valtchev as part of the ARC Training Centre for the Australian Food Processing Industry showed that compounds from elderberries can directly inhibit the influenza virus’s entry and replication in human cells, and can help strengthen a person’s immune response to the virus.

This works by blocking key viral proteins responsible for both the viral attachment and entry into the host cells.

Basically speaking can shorten the life of the illness as much as by half and reduce symptoms of upper respiratory infections.

I quote “we identified that the elderberry solution also stimulated the cells to release certain cytokines, which are chemical messengers that the immune system uses for communication between different cell types to coordinate a more efficient response against the invading pathogen,” said Centre Director, Professor Fariba Deghani.

Elderberries also prevent or shorten the duration of herpes outbreaks, decrease pain and inflammation.

The Elder can also be used in healing spell work.

Working on both a physical and emotional level.

Bathing in Elderberry (small amount of juice to bath water) can also aid emotional and spiritual healing.

The stem of the Elder was said to have brought fire to man by the God Prometheus.

It has long been known as the tree of medicine but also a tree of witches and feared by many, it was said witches could turn themselves into Elder trees, this however I have yet to attempt.

A tree of death, rebirth and reincarnation.

This tree is very special and a whole ritual was preformed before berries were picked in some traditions.

This tree is known to me as “the tree of our lady” and holds “magical properties” in my opinion.

Drinking Elderberry is said to increase your intuition.

Also known for healing, protection and prosperity.

Long known as the tree of the fae.

It is said that on midsummer if you sit close to mother earth by an Elder you might see the fairy king.

It is said that “to burn an Elder tree would leave you cursed”.

Never cut an Elder without first asking permission from mother earth as this is also said to have negative repercussions.

If an Elder self seeds outside your dwelling it was said to bring you great protection.

The word Elder comes from the anglo-saxon “aeld” meaning fire. This is because the soft pith was pushed out easily to make a pipe to blow up the fire. Later bellows were made from Elder for the same use.

In the summer we find the Elder standing with gorgeously fragrant white flowers, by winter the deep purple berries appear.

When picking leave some for deer, birds and other animals to feast.

Needless to say we need to keep a balance between our needs and that of the world around us trying to lessen our impact or even better improve that of our surroundings, but thats another post for another day.

Also please be aware that before washing then boiling you first have removed every single stalk as these contain poisonous compounds also be sure to use only the deep purple berries not the green ones.

Lots of love and Brightest Blessings

Healing Herbs,Herb craft

Marigold (Healing herb)

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Marigold (Calendula officinalis)

Also known as Marigold, Holigold, Mary Bud, Pot Marigold, Calendula, Maidens of the Sun.

In folklore the Ancient Greeks, who used the petals for decoration, also used Marigolds for colouring food, make-up, dying fabrics and medicinal uses.

Marigolds have been grown in the gardens of Europe since the 12th century.

By the 14th century it had become increasingly popular due to its “magical powers.”

One medieval author named Macer described Marigold in his volume on herbs; he thought that to look upon the flowers would improve eyesight and draw evil from the head.

This flower has been revered as a magical medicinal for centuries.

Ancient Egyptians used it to rejuvenate their skin, whilst the Greeks and Romans used it as a culinary garnish.

In ancient as well as modern India, it is often strung into garlands for weddings and religious rituals.

Powers of protection and prophecy have been attributed to this herb. Hanging under your bed was said to offer you protection from robbers and thieves and to induce prophetic dreams if you had been robbed, helping you to identify the culprit!

Ancient Greece, Rome and Arabia. It was most commonly used as a skin treatment, with preparations used for treating minor wounds, callouses, insect bites and stings, eczema, itches, burns and haemorrhoids.

Marigolds are amazing for many reasons below are some of the health benefits used today.

Today we use Marigolds for a variety of treatments some include:

Skin healing:

Marigold has the ability to promote the growth of healthy new tissue, increase blood flow to the affected area, boost collagen production (which firms and strengthens skin), hydrate dry skin and speed up the process of skin repair following surgery or damage.

It is also believed that due to stimulation of epithelial cell production (the cells that make up the outer surface of the body), mostly as a result of the presence of glycoproteins and nucleoproteins.

It’s also linked to increased cell turnover and improved collagen metabolism stimulation.

Antioxidant:

This beautiful orange and yellow oil is rich in carotenes and carotenoids. These are the compounds responsible for the plant’s radiant colour. Phytochemicals lead to the production of antioxidant Vitamin A.

Sore throat and mouth ulsers:

Due to the Marigolds antiseptic and anti-microbial qualities, Marigold is an effective remedy for sore throats, tonsillitis, gingivitis and mouth ulcers. Gargling with Marigold tea will help to both soothe the mucus membranes of the throat and ease the pain.

Antiseptic and anti inflammatory:

During World War 1 and the American Civil War Marigolds were used as an antiseptic for wounds, knowing that the main compounds are the triterpenoids, which are claimed to be the most important anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous (preventing swelling) components within the plant.

Marigold extract is applied in drop form (oil) to the inside of the ear canal to help treat bacterial ear infections and decrease pain.

It has been found that these drops can lower inner-ear swelling and inflammation within just a couple of days of use.

Also can treat nappy rash in children over 6 months I recomend mixing a few drops of Marigold oil with a base oil.

For children over 6 months you can try adding aloe vera (blitz together with a few drops to make a gel).

I also recomend doing a skin test on a small area before use and remove immediately if any reaction occurs.

Conjunctivitis/ eye inflammation:

Research has found that Marigold extract is effective in the treatment of conjunctivitis and other ocular inflammatory conditions.

The extract has antibacterial, anti-viral, antifungal and immuno-stimulating properties that were shown to reduce eye infections.

Vision is also protected by these extracts and the delicate tissues of the eye from UV and oxidative damage.

Against cancer tumors both as a prevention and treatment.

In a study in 2012 compared the cancer-fighting powers of marigold and chamomile teas. Both were able to target cancer tumors selectively, but the effects of marigold tea were more potent.

Marigold infusions can be enjoyed to nourish the skin, as an internal anti-fungal agent and to soothe the intestinal tract. It’s absolutely delicious and mildly detoxifying.

Marigold oil can be used in skin care and as a body massage, it can also be applied directly to a damaged skin area.

Do NOT use if you are allergic to any plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family.

No known side effects but not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Lots of love and Brightest Blessings always

Healing Herbs

Passion flower (Healing Herb)

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A study of 60 people who were given passion flower before undergoing surgery has shown that it is able to calm anxiety with no side effects of sedation or effect muscle activity.



In a similar study it was compared to typically used benzodiazepine (oxazepam) which is generally used for anxiety disorders. It was found that both treatments were equally effective. With oxazepam working faster but the passion flower having fewer harmful side effects.

Passion flower not only helps anxiety it improves your sleep. Allowing sleep to occur quicker due to its ability to release gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain.

Passion flower can also calm the intestines during upset stomachs.

This amazing flower has the ability to enhance ones overall mood.

Passion flower is usually dried and sipped in an infusion steeped and ready in minutes.

Features,Healing Herbs

Chamomile (Healing Herb)

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Chamomile has to be one of my favorites.

Dried chamomile flowers are used to make a beautiful golden infusion after steeping for a matter of minutes.

It is known to be an anti inflammatory aswell as:

  • Reducing menstrual pain
  • Treating diabetes and lowering blood sugar levels
  • Slowing or preventing osteoporosis
  • Helps promote bone density
  • Cancer treatment and prevention
  • (Above information from a study taken in 2004)

Chamomile is also a relaxing drink that is often used to calm before bed.

This amazing flower can be used to treat cold symptoms.

It is safe to give to children and babies providing they have no allergy to chamomile.

I’ve used it to calm my children before bed when they’ve had a cold or flu instead of using calpol (holy basil for fever). Personally I always add some honey when serving it for children. (Honey should not be given to children under one year).

My mother used to treat allergic reactions or other skin conditions like eczema with Chamomile.

Not sure what studies have been done in this respect but always worked for us.

Have a wonderful day. Lots of love and Brightest Blessings always