Asperging

Asperging means sprinkling with liquid in order to effect spiritual and magickal cleansing. Asperging spells direct the elemental cleansing power of water and other liquids toward a specific area. Depending upon what is used to direct the water, the elemental cleansing power of Earth may also be incorporated through the use of botanicals.

Use ritual tools or botanicals to asperge

Use your fingers to flick the waters where needed

Weave an asperging wand of cleansing plants: Vervain, Lavender, Hyssop, and Rosemary are favorites. This technique can also incorporate knot magick.

Asperging is the most popular method of liquid based space cleansing. It is more discreet than smudging or any sort of smoke based method. Burning botanicals inevitably leaves a lingering fragrance. By definition it is the aroma of the burning botanicals that provides the cleansing. Aromas tend to evoke highly personal reactions: fragrances favored in cleansings may or may not meet with your neighbors or housemates approval. The issue of fire safety always looms also.With water based cleansings you are able to maintain tighter control over safety and fragrance. Different methods resonate for different people. The most basic cleansing liquid is sea salt dissolved into spring or rain water. This mixture when blessed by its maker with a prayer or spell is what is known as "Witch's Holy Water" when made by a witch or simply "Holy Water" when made by a Christian or Catholic Priest. One of my favorite water recipes is below.

Marie Laveau Water

This formula is attributed to Marie Laveau, the renowned "Queen of New Orleans Voodoo." Born in 1792, she transformed Voodoo from a persecuted cult into an organized, respected tradition. Following her death she achieved unofficial Saint status.

One Cup Rain Water

One Cup Spring Water

One Cup Rose Water or Hydrosol

One Cup Holy Water

One Cup Lavender Water, Hydrosol or 20 drops of Lavender Essential Oil

This formula is used for:

Psychic Enhancement

Protection

Aura Cleansing

Cleansing Spells