Ambergris: Meaning & Magickal Uses

Ambergris is also called Ambra grisea, Ambre gris, ambergrease, or grey amber.

Ambergris variously described as being ruled by the Sun, Jupiter, or Venus.

What Exactly is Ambergris?

It is a substance regurgitated by sperm whales, possibly to help rid their digestive tract of undigestable materials. When it is first produced, it is quite a bit like poop and rather unpleasant but after spending some time in the sun and sea, it becomes more pleasant, waxy and fragrant.

The smell is earthy and sweet and it was once widely used in perfumery as a fixative. However, due to the declining numbers of wild sperm whales, it has largely been replaced by synthetics.

Historically it has been used to flavor food, as an aphrodisiac, and as medicine for colds, epilepsy, and headaches.

Aspect	Explanation
Definition	Ambergris is a waxy substance produced in the digestive system of sperm whales. It is expelled by the whale or found washed ashore after floating in the ocean for years, undergoing a process of aging and weathering.
Historical Use	Throughout history, ambergris has been highly valued for its fragrance and medicinal properties. It was used in perfumery as a fixative to enhance and prolong the scent of perfumes. In traditional medicine, it was believed to have various therapeutic properties.
Symbolism	In some spiritual and magical traditions, ambergris may be associated with properties such as protection, purification, and enhancement of psychic abilities. Its rarity and mystical origins may imbue it with a sense of mystery and potency.
Ritualistic Importance	While not commonly used in contemporary witchcraft practices, ambergris could potentially be incorporated into rituals or spellwork for purposes such as enhancing psychic awareness, creating sacred space, or adding a mystical element to spell ingredients.

The origins of ambergris

Ambergris is a pathological intestinal concretion of the sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) which occurs in 1% of the population of these cetaceans. This concretion is formed partly by undigested material (beaks and bones of squid, its favorite food) and partly by a pathological substance of waxy consistency secreted in the intestine to protect the internal surface from irritation caused by the passage of indigestible material; this accumulates in the final part of the animal’s intestine, growing in volume over the years, until it is expelled.

Having a lower density than water, it floats: dark brown to black in colour, this floating waxy mass exposed to the air, the sun, and the action of the sea’s salinity matures over time and becomes light gray or straw yellow in colour, gradually crumbling into smaller pieces, which are then found especially on the beaches of East and West Africa, in New Zealand, Australia, and along the coasts of the Azores.

Ambergris in Magick

Magically, it can also be used to increase psychic ability and for dream magic.

Properties	Magickal Uses
Amplification	Enhances the power of other spell ingredients and rituals
Attraction	Attracts luck, prosperity, and positive energies
Protection	Creates a shield against negative influences, psychic attacks, and hexes
Healing	Assists in physical and emotional healing processes
Transformation	Facilitates personal growth, spiritual transformation, and manifestation of desires

Using ambergris in magickal practices requires respect for its sacred nature and careful consideration of its properties. Here are some ways to incorporate it into your rituals and spells:

• Incense and Aromatherapy: Burn ambergris as incense during meditation, ritual, spells, prayers or divination sessions to create a sacred atmosphere conducive to spiritual exploration and communion with higher realms. Its aromatic qualities are believed to purify the spirit and enhance psychic abilities.
• Spell Ingredients: Add small amounts of powdered or tinctured ambergris into your spells and potions to amplify their energy and efficacy. Use it in love spells, protection spells, or any magickal workings aimed at enhancing intuition and psychic abilities.
• Amulets and Talismans: Carry or wear ambergris-infused amulets or talismans to harness its protective properties and ward off negative energies. This can be especially beneficial for individuals seeking spiritual protection or wishing to enhance their psychic defenses.
• Dream Work: Place a small piece of ambergris under your pillow or in your sleeping area to enhance dream recall, promote lucid dreaming, and facilitate spiritual communication during sleep. Its association with dreams and intuition makes it a valuable ally in dream work and subconscious exploration.
• Ritual Baths: Add a few drops of ambergris tincture or a small piece of ambergris to your ritual bath to purify your energy field, cleanse your aura, and enhance your psychic sensitivity. Allow the soothing energy of the water infused with ambergris to wash away any negativity and open pathways for spiritual insight.
• Divination Tools: Use ambergris-infused oils or tinctures to anoint divination tools such as tarot cards, scrying mirrors, or crystal balls before conducting readings. The presence of ambergris can help sharpen your intuitive abilities and deepen your connection to the messages received during divination sessions.

Conclusion

Mostly known for its cosmetic use, ambergris is so much more. It is a powerful tool to work with our spirituality but also to be part of our witchy craft.