Herbalist (Mage)

Part gardener, part alchemist, Herbalists use the magic of the planet itself to create potions that can be used by anybody. They are responsible for designing the only werewolf tranquilizer that can stop a raging werewolf on a full moon, vampire-strength sunscreen, and other such fabulous concoctions. Sugar and Spice is the leading Herbalist shop in the area and carries both of these unique items, along with many other things.

Traditionally, an Herbalist is someone who was born with the gift or someone to whom the knowledge was handed down through their tribe or clan, starting at a young age. But in recent times a person can purchase books and learn on their own, or pay an extravagant amount of money to take classes. Chances are, those that are naturals or who were chosen as children are more intune with the magick in the ingredients they choose and can whip up a more potent potion or charm.

Though many people hear the word "Herbalist" and think only plants, but the truth is, that's just the beginning of what an Herbalist can do. Teas, vitamins, soothing bath and beauty products, incenses, oils, lotions and potions are among many of the products that are produced. Other items, such as dreamcatchers, amulets, talismans, and protective charms can also be found, if the Herbailsts is confident enough to create them.

Ingredients can be a bothersome task to find, some of the items needed are not able to be grown in certain climates, or are only found in certain parts of the world. Myrtle Wood Trees, for instance, are only found in one county, on the western coast of North America; they just won't grow anywhere else. Other items are not plant life, and therefor must be either found, collected or purchased in order to mix up the recipe. Local bird feathers, shells and stones are reasonably easy to find and collect, whereas cat whiskers and eagle talons prove to be challenging to just happen upon.

Fresh herbs and spices are always more potent than dried, and the fresher it is, the less of it will be used. For this reason, many Herbalists have their own gardens and tend to grow most everything they can so that it is on hand when they need it.The leaves, stem, flowers and roots are all essential items to an experienced Herbalist. Not only do they have to know the magically properties of each plant they use, but they also have to know the medicinal properties of each plant. Some plant life has benefically uses, but only for part of the plant. Take Rhubarb for example--people use the stalks for cooking, especially making pies; the leaves are toxic (perhaps not fatal, but enough to mess up a person's kidneys or drop them into a coma). It's very important that the Herbalist is knowledgable about thier ingredients. Wouldn't want to accidentally poison or kill a potential repeat customer!