jbirdthemanwitch:

Plant magic: Sweetgum.

• Dried seedpods, commonly refered to as Witches’ Balls, Witches’ Burrs, and Sticker Balls, are protective and can be “loaded” by sprinkling herbs into the holes and then sealing with wax for warding. The dried seedpods can also be placed on windowsills or in corners of the home to act as protective elements to set or reinforce wards. The pods can also be used in witches bottles to protect the home and prevent theft. Witches’ burrs can also be used for commanding and compelling. A photo of the target or a name paper can be wrapped around the spikes of the seedpod, intended to cause them anguish until they complete commands. Burrs can also be added to hex jars.
• Leaves. Sweetgum leaves are shaped like stars and can be pressed and used for bookmarks. They’re protective and can be used like bayleaves in spells: inscribe something on the leaf and burn it to assist manifestation.
• Gum Resin. The resin the tree exudes, called Stryax Resin, can be used much like benzoin. If you can find a tree with globs of hardened sap from past injuries it can be saved and used as purification incense or as an offering. The gum is known to have a sweet taste and is mildly anti inflammatory. Can be added to washes, colognes and mixtures to provide protection, especially from spirits, healing, or luck.