Wicca in the Kitchen

Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Wicca in the Kitchen by Scott Cunningham is an excellent resource for those new to the pagan path, as well as, those who have been on their journey for decades. One of the things I love most about Cunningham’s books is that he leaves no stones unturned or in this case, no herbs un-ground. You do not even have to be pagan to enjoy the insights and knowledge he imparts. 

What do we all have to do? Eat. For some eating is just a mindless necessity to be engaged in at set times. For those of us in tune with nature and the energies of the world, and those that understand all action produces an effect or consequence, Cunningham has put together a tome that teaches the properties of various herbs, vegetables, fruits, meats, and other staples and so much more. He says on page 12, “Magic doesn’t produce miracles; it produces needed changes.” These are wise words we should all learn to go through our everyday activities remembering, because magic is all around us and constantly changing our lives.

Virtually any item in your pantry can be used for personal transformation. Food contains magical energies you can harness for positive results. Whether you want to boost psychic awareness, bring love in your life, improve health, bring more money into your life, Wicca in the Kitchen, provides you with the steps and the wisdom to achieve these goals and many more.  This encyclopedia offers magical menus and many of Cunningham’s favorite recipes.

Another thing I love about Cunningham’s writing is that he gives examples of everyday people and how they would enhance their lives with simply understanding what energies they are bringing forth when preparing meals.  As he says on page 20, “Food is a manifestation of divine energies that’s vital to our survival. Approaching food from this frame of mind makes it easier to utilize it as a tool of self-transformation.”

One thing is certain you will never look at food the same way after reading this book. You will probably also have the urge, to  write down all the things you wish to change in your life and then go forage for all the items needed to stock your pantry,  in case the moment to affect those changes arises. Be always mindful; however, that food magic should never be used to affect others without their permission.

Finally, do not feel like you have to be a gourmet chef to benefit from this book, like so many other cooking aides seem to be written for. Like those of us following the path, this book is very down to earth. It is also open-minded in that Cunningham understands not everyone has the same access to fresh ingredients all the time. He even covers the magical uses of junk and processed foods. Yes, even they have their place. And for those who can’t resist the occasional trip to Micky D’s you’ll be happy to know that  ordering that fish sandwich can enhance your psychic awareness (maybe not the best thing in a fast food chain), that those French fries  can offer grounding and protection, and that strawberry shake may just bring some love into your life.

A must read and a great addition to any library!!

(I originally wrote this post for the Fellowship of the Crow.)