Anyone who has heard the famous song Love Potion #9 knows a little of the lore of oils, potions, and magickal concoctions. What few people realize, however, is that these early combinations of plants, resins, and other natural elements were the foundation of modern medicine and perfumery. The early Witches and Shamans served as doctors and pharmacists, therapists and counselors to their communities. They created their ointments, salves, and brews to heal both the body and the spirit.

Oils or Potions—What's the Difference?
An oil is a fragrant blend of scents imbued into a liquid and formulated to effect a desired change for the wearer. They are not ingested in any way but rather used to anoint ritual tools, candles, jewelry, doorknobs, altars, or the body. They can also be added to an incense to enhance its fragrance. Potions, on the other hand, have traditionally been associated with drinks, like tea. They are brewed and meant to either be consumed by the Witch, by the intended recipient of her spell, or to be shared, as in a mutual ritual of love. In our own shop, however, we blur these distinctions, preferring the term “potion” as the general definition of liquid herbal blends. Our potions are oils, meant to be used for annointing and not to be ingested.

The use of code numbers for potions, such as #9, originated in New Orleans apothecaries. Voodoo items were sold by number rather than name to confuse authorities. Customers would come in and speak their requests like secret passwords: “I'll have a #20!” Their orders would be promptly filled, and the nature of their business remained a mystery to the uninitiated.

New Orleans Love Oil #20
Here is a basic recipe for a classic New Orleans love potion, meant to be used as a perfume or annointing oil (do not drink!).
1 part Almond
2 parts Rose
2 parts Lavender
1 part Bay
1 part Lemon