FRIDAY FIVE
The life of a witch in 2019 does not exactly resemble the life of Sabrina Spellman. Sabrina had her whimsical aunts and Salem the cat to show her the ways of witch life. Today, we have only each other, Google and local apothecaries.
Luckily for witches in the Bay Area (and believe us, there are many), mystical stores are common, usually filled with beginner spell books, crystals and dried herbs to help anyone interested in spirituality or mysticism, or who’s just looking to explore an unconventional part of Bay Area culture. Here are our favorite witchy stores:
1. The Sword and Rose
Inconspicuously hidden in the back of a serene courtyard in Cole Valley, this spiritual and metaphysical shop, founded by Randy David Jeffers and Patrick Ferry, has stood since 1995. There is truly no other place like it—a one-stop shop for sorcerers and witches. More than 90 types of incense and oils are “ritually made” in the store, each for special purposes, such as for times of astrological distress (Mercury in retrograde, for example). Jewelry, books on witchcraft, tarot cards and crystals can all be found here too. And don’t forget the swords. Another draw to this shop is its professional tarot-card readings, which can happen via walk-in or by appointment.
85 Carl Street (Cole Valley)| theswordandrose.net
2. Homestead Apothecary
A favorite among new-age Bohemians, Homestead Apothecary has two shops in Oakland: one in Temescal and one in East Oakland’s Laurel district. At both locations, a trained herbalist is always on staff to help you with your needs. The apothecary got its start in 2013 when Nic Weinstein, its owner, discovered herbalism after his cat got sick. A doctor told him that his cat’s days were numbered, but a Western herbalist provided him with an herb alternative, which apparently saved his cat’s life. Known for its unique wellness tinctures and tea blends, the shop has a regular clientele who believe in the power of herbal medicine. Customers can even create their own teas to soothe whatever ailment they might have.
486 49th Street in Temescal Alley (Oakland)| homesteadapothecary.com
3. Alembique Apothecary
This Berkeley apothecary, which opened in 2014 by Babak Nahid, specializes in natural health and wellness, attracting anyone interested in living a more natural lifestyle. Alembique specializes in organic teas, spices, extracts, bitters and plant oils—all locally crafted or harvested. Perhaps what’s most special about the apothecary is its rooftop, where buzzing bees make delicious seasonal honey that customers can purchase. Alembique also offers a variety of workshops each month for customers to learn more about herbalism or plant oils, as well as a DIY workshop on how to make your own healing concoction.
901 Hearst Avenue (Berkeley) | alembique.com
4. The Scarlet Sage Herb Co.
Located in the Mission, the Scarlet Sage Herb Co. is an herbal apothecary and one-stop shop for any witch who is looking to clear negative energy. Since 1995, it’s been providing Bay Area witches and herbalists with rare organic herbs, essential oils, incense, crystals, candles and sometimes spell books. It also offers a variety of spiritual services, such as tarot-card readings, sound healing and crystal card readings. The Scarlet Sage Herb Co. is a special place with a noticeably calming ambience. The apothecary is run by Laura Ash, who took over after its two original founders “passed the broom.”
1193 Valencia Street (Mission)| scarletsage.com
5. Twisted Thistle Apothecary
Prior to becoming the Twisted Thistle Apothecary we know today, this store—a staple on Haight Street—was called Happy High Herbs. According to Hoodline, the owners, Naomi and Ethan Franc, thought the name and front-window hippie vibes misrepresented the brand. Today, it offers customers unique herbal blends, essential oils, tinctures, crystals and tarot cards. The apothecary also offers its own house-made herbal blends.
1391 Haight Street (Haight) | twistedthistleapothecary.com
