Copyright © 2000 Patricia Telesco
"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.” —Ecclesiastes 3:1

Witches use the symbolism of the elements (Earth, Air, Fire, and Water), and that of the seasons for many things. First, we use them to honor the Earth’s cycles. For example, we might choose to make Air-oriented beverages to serve at Spring gatherings.

Second, each of the elements has specific attributes associated with it. By creating a beverage with distinct elemental overtones, we can internalize the energy of that element. For example, if you lacked energy, a Fire-based beverage is a good choice!

Similarly, each season is associated with an element and a location in our sacred circles. Spring corresponds with Air and the East, Summer with Fire and the South, Fall with Water and the West, and Winter with Earth and the North. What does all this mean? Effectively it gives you tons of flexibility with your brewing endeavors. For example, you could prepare a brew in Summer months to instill it with “Summer” or “Fire” energy. And, you could also use that beverage to mark or honor the southern part of your sacred space! Or, you could prepare a “Fire”-based beverage to use as a libation for Summer rituals.

Mix and match however you wish!

Fall/Water/West

This is the season focused on the harvest, community, balance, and preparation. Traditional components include apple juice, cardamom, chamomile, mint, thyme, banana, pear, peach, birch (birch beer) catnip, pineapple, berries, cherry juice, chocolate beverages, heather, kiwi, lemon, and mead. For crystal tonics use blue agate, amethyst, fluorite, moonstone, and holy stones. Prepare these beverages at dusk.