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Bones of Integrity: Ethically Sourcing & Hygienically Cleaning Your Divination Tools

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Greetings, BeWitchy® readers! Madame Verveine is back, and today we're addressing a vital aspect of working with natural elements in our craft: the ethical and hygienic preparation of bones for your divination sets. While the allure of found objects is undeniable, we, as conscientious witches, must approach this with both respect for the natural world and a healthy dose of common sense regarding cleanliness.


The Ethical Witch: Sourcing Your Bones with Respect


Before we even think about scrubbing, our first priority is always ethical sourcing. This isn't just about avoiding legal trouble; it's about honoring the life that once inhabited these sacred objects and ensuring our magic is built on a foundation of integrity.

  1. Found in Nature (Naturally Deceased): This is often considered the most ethical way to acquire bones.

    • The "Permission" Principle: When you come across bones in the wild, pause. Offer a moment of gratitude and ask permission (silently or aloud) from the land and the spirit of the animal. If you feel a "no" or unease, leave them be.

    • Observation is Key: Look for bones that are already clean and weathered, free of any remaining flesh or strong odor. This indicates the animal has been deceased for a while and nature has done most of the initial cleaning.

    • Roadkill Caution: While some witches work with roadkill, be extremely cautious. Fresh roadkill often carries diseases, and attempting to process it yourself can be dangerous and unpleasant. If you're not experienced in this, it's best to leave it to nature's cleaners or professional taxidermists.

    • Legal Considerations: Always be aware of local laws regarding the collection of animal remains. In many places, it's illegal to collect bones from protected species or within national parks. Do your homework!

  2. From Meals (Domestic Animals):

    • Chicken, Lamb, Fish Bones: Bones from animals consumed in your own home (or a trusted source) are a fantastic and ethical option. You know where they came from, and you're utilizing something that would otherwise be discarded, honoring the animal's life by giving its remains a new purpose.

    • Butchers/Hunters: If you have a trusted relationship with a local butcher or ethical hunter, you might inquire about acquiring bones that would otherwise be discarded. Again, understanding the source is paramount.

  3. Purchased (Reputable Sources):

    • Ethically Sourced Retailers: Many online shops (like those you might find on Etsy, for example) and metaphysical stores specialize in ethically sourced animal bones. Look for sellers who explicitly state their sourcing methods (e.g., "found," "ethically harvested from natural deaths," "from sustainable farms").

    • Avoid: Steer clear of sellers who cannot provide clear information on their sourcing, or those dealing in endangered or illegally obtained animal parts.


Madame Verveine's Ethical Mantra: Never take a life solely for magical components. Honor the cycle of life and death, and work with what nature or respectful human practices provide.


The Hygienic Witch: Ensuring Bones are Safe to Touch


Once you have your ethically sourced bones, the next vital step is ensuring they are completely clean and sanitary. You want to work with tools that are pure and energetically clear, not tainted by decay or bacteria.


What to AVOID:

  • Boiling Bones: While it might seem like a quick fix, do not boil bones. Boiling can trap fats inside the bone, leading to a greasy, yellowed appearance over time and a persistent odor. It can also weaken the bone's structure, making it brittle.

  • Bleach: Never use household bleach on bones. Bleach will degrade the bone's integrity, making it chalky, brittle, and prone to flaking. It can also leave a harsh chemical residue.


Madame Verveine's Recommended Cleaning Process:

Phase 1: Removing Soft Tissue (if any remains)

If your bones aren't already perfectly clean from nature's work, this is the most crucial, and sometimes the most patient, step.

  1. "Maceration" (Water Soaking): This is the gold standard for bone cleaning.

    • Materials: A sturdy plastic container with a lid, water, and a well-ventilated outdoor space (a garage, shed, or discreet spot in the garden away from living areas).

    • Process: Place the bones in the container and cover them completely with water. Seal the lid loosely to allow some air exchange but keep pests out. The bacteria in the water will slowly "eat" any remaining tissue.

    • Patience is Key: This can take weeks to months, depending on the amount of tissue and the temperature. Change the water every few days to once a week. Be prepared for a very strong odor – this is why outdoor placement is essential!

    • Scrubbing: As the tissue loosens, you can use an old toothbrush, a stick, or a small brush to gently scrub away any remaining bits.

  2. Burying: Another excellent, natural method.

    • Process: Bury the bones in a mesh bag (to prevent losing small pieces) directly in the soil. Allow insects and microbes to do the work.

    • Time: This also takes time, often several months to a year, depending on soil conditions and climate.


Phase 2: Degreasing (Essential for Longevity and Scent)

Even seemingly clean bones can harbor residual fats and oils, which can lead to a greasy feel, a yellowish tint, and eventually, a rancid smell.

  1. Soaking in Soapy Water:

    • Materials: A clean container, warm (not hot) water, and a good degreasing dish soap (like Dawn or similar).

    • Process: Submerge the bones in soapy water. Let them soak for several days, changing the water and adding fresh soap every 2-3 days, until no more greasy film appears on the water's surface. For very greasy bones (like from a bear or pig), this might take weeks.

    • Scrubbing: Use a brush to gently scrub the bones to release any embedded fats.


Phase 3: Whitening & Sanitizing (The Finishing Touch)

Once degreased, your bones are ready for the final step to make them beautifully white and truly safe to handle.

  1. Hydrogen Peroxide Bath (The Only Whitening Method):

    • Materials: A clean plastic container, 3% Hydrogen Peroxide (the kind found in pharmacies, or stronger concentrations from salon supply stores diluted to 3-6%), and gloves.

    • Process: Place the clean, degreased bones into the container and cover them completely with hydrogen peroxide.

    • Soaking: Let them soak. The time will vary depending on the bone's natural color and how white you want them. This could be a few hours to several days. Check them periodically.

    • Safety First: Always wear gloves when handling hydrogen peroxide. If you're using a higher concentration, work in a well-ventilated area.

    • Sunlight Boost: Placing the container in direct sunlight can speed up the whitening process.

    • Rinse Thoroughly: Once they reach your desired whiteness, remove them and rinse them very thoroughly under running water to remove all peroxide residue.


Phase 4: Drying

  1. Air Dry: Place the bones on a clean, dry surface (like a wire rack or newspaper) in a well-ventilated area. Do not place them in direct heat (like an oven or radiator), as this can cause cracking.

  2. Patience: Let them air dry completely, which can take a few days. They will feel denser and harder when fully dry.


Phase 5: Energetic Cleansing & Consecration

Once physically clean, your bones are ready for their magical preparation!

  • Energetic Cleansing: Use your preferred method – smoke cleansing (sage, palo santo, rosemary), sound (singing bowl, chimes), moonlight bath, or a quick pass through a salt bowl.

  • Consecration: Hold each bone, imbue it with its intended meaning, and dedicate it to its purpose in your divination set. Speak your intentions aloud.


By following these steps, you ensure that your bone-throwing set is not only a powerful magical tool but also a testament to your respect for nature and your commitment to a truly clean and mindful practice.


Do you have any bones or natural treasures waiting to be transformed into your next powerful divination tool?

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