Yuza-Yuza/Necromancy Oil Pt. 1

I have been feeling the draw to work with the dead, and after establishing a relationship with my ancestors for some time, and getting experience with cemetery work, I am confident that I am ready. Recently I decided to experiment with “Voodoo Sorcery Grimoire” (VSG) by Brujo Negro and his method for utilizing the spirits of the dead in spell work.  The text mentioned a blend known as Yuza-Yuza Oil, which is a powerful oil used for calling the “evil spirits of the dead” for hexing purposes. He puts Yuza-Yuza in the same category as Yula perfume, Black Arts, and Crossing oils as far as hexing potency is concerned albeit with a more necrotic energy. I decided to look up more information on this oil and make some for myself.  First thing I had to do was track down a recipe.

I didn’t have to look far, as it turns out Yuza-Yuza is listed Herman Slater’s formulary.  The oil is listed as thus:

Black

Myrrh

Cypress

A dreaded mystical oil blend used for calling the spirits of the dead.

Very Dangerous. Never use in jest. Also for casting hexes.

On the surface this seems like a pretty simple oil with only two ingredients and the instruction that it be colored black.  In context both Myrrh and Cypress make perfect sense to be included in a necromantic oil. Both are associated with the planet Saturn which is the planet associated with such works, and in regards to voodoo is connected to the Lwa Baron Samedi (Saturday). Myrrh has a long history of being connected to funerary rites, and was even used by ancient Egyptians in the process of embalming mummies. Cypress wood earned the folk name “Tree of Death” for it’s long association with dead, and because it’s wood was used in Egypt to build coffins. So here we clearly have the necromantic element present in both ingredients, and while I wouldn’t necessarily classify them as being known their  powers in hexing, their Saturnian energies can be used as such. So while the VSG mentions it solely as a hexing oil, it seems that it is more so used to call forward the spirits of the dead, but can also be used for hexing as well. Brujo Negro says that he learned of the formula from his course work with now defunct International Guild of Occult Sciences (IGOS). I however was not able to find any alternate recipe for the oil, and asking around a few message boards didn’t turn up much in the way of information. With that being the only recipe I could find, the next step was to gather the materials.

Myrrh is pretty easy to get, cypress however was going to be the adventure. I did a search for cypress trees in Richmond and found one planted in the historic Hollywood Cemetery. I have hung out here before (what goth kid in this city hasn’t at some point?) but have not done work in there before. So, with a flask of whiskey and bag of shiny pennies I set off to the cemetery. I first made my customary offering at the gate and asked for permission to enter. Using the iron key on my necklace as a pendulum, I got my confirmation I went to work. Since Hollywood Cemetery is a tourist they have maps available for self guided tours of both graves of note, and the plant life there. Also, much kudos to the woman in the office for not giving the guy in a black trench coat and fedora even the slightest odd look for buying tour maps of a cemetery in the rain. With this being my first time working I had to make my way to the first burial in the cemetery to honor the Baron before gathering my cypress. I made my way to the tree and gave offerings and asked for permission to gather what I needed. I have to admit that even though I have been at this at a while, it is hard not to feel like a crazy hippy while having a conversation with a tree. With cypress leaves, bark, and a few twigs in hand I made my way out of the cemetery ready to make some oil. Or so I thought….Duh Duh Duh!

As I mentioned earlier I asked around a few message boards and groups about Yuza-Yuza oil. I only got replies on one group and that was Brother Moloch’s Guild of Sorcery on Facebook. One set of replies was from someone that just wanted to say that all of the Herman Slater recipes were “pulled out of his ass”. He knows this you see, because the oils and powders that he bought from Magickal Childe way back in the yesteryear of 1985 didn’t work for him. Fortunately Moloch had something actually helpful to add to the conversation as he always does. He even gave a recipe and instructions on how to make a necromancy oil. This reminded me that I don’t necessarily need to  follow a recipe to the letter and should go with what the spirits have to say on the subject. After a conversation with my ancestors and a bit of research I came up with my own blend which was one part Yuza-Yuza, a bit of Moloch’s and a dash of Ash. Trust me a dash of Ash is all you really need. My recipe is as follows:

Myrrh

Cypress

Tobacco

Patchouli

Yew Needles

Hellebore Root

I set out to make this oil in the hour of Saturn, so 3:30 am Dec, 25th (Yes Christmas morning. Happy belated birthday Yeshua Ben Yosef) I sat down to begin my work.  If you are familiar with planetary days and hours you know that the next planetary day does not begin until sun up. I chose this time because it happened to be both the hour of Saturn and the true witching hour. I sat down at my altar, lit a black candle in honor of the planet, burned some myrrh, and began to combine the ingredients into a glass jar.

I used a pestle to combine everything a bit and then poured some sweet almond oil over it all. After saying a few words in set the jar in a box that I put all of my oils and other objects in to charge and will let it sit there for at least a week to let oil get the essences and scents of all of the ingredients. 

If you noticed this was titled as part 1. That is because I have some other rituals planned to empower this oil, so stay tuned true believers because there is more to come....

To Be Silent....

I am sure that many in the conjure community are by now familiar with the controversy surrounding noted Root doctor Dr. Kioni in regards to a ritual sacrifice utilized in a clients work that some have found questionable. Dr. K posted a picture of the working in question on his Facebook page which resulted in some offended parties starting an online petition , and the family of the deceased that grave belonged to being informed of the working. I personally have no feelings regarding the nature of the sacrifice. How he does is work is his business. It also seems that the way this is being pushed by certain parties has more to do with bad blood going on behind the scenes than concern for animal rights. It is sad that it couldn't quietly between them instead of spilling into something very public that would allow for such a negative light on conjure. I am not sure how often Hoodoo gets national press, so on the rare instance that is does, I find it regretful that the headline would have to read "Hoodoo ritual sacrifice shocks family" in USA Today. 

What I feel Dr. Kioni did do wrong, was share the picture and any details of the working in the first place. It was clearly an attempt at self promotion that back fired and gave fuel to potential enemies. He has since acknowledged and apologized for the mistake. I urge all those new to this work to learn from this lesson. Secrecy is one of the most important and often times overlooked aspects of this art. Growing up you would have never known that conjure was done in our house, there was no permanent altar, and no curios or roots to be seen. I was taught that that even though you friends and family may have the best of intentions and on the surface seem to hope the best for you and all the success in the world, subconsciously jealousy is what a lot of  them will have. That deeper jealousy turns into negative energy projected at you and any thing you have in the works that they are aware of. Play all of your workings close the vest at least until they come to pass to prevent the possibility of this energy becoming an obstacle. By the time the working has come to fruition what is the point in talking then unless it is simply to brag? Bragging is not very becoming and also can cause more problems then its worth. 

If secrecy is important to guard against friends you have to know it goes double for enemies. Never give your enemies anything except for that proverbial "enough rope to hang themselves". Conjure is not a religion, it is a magical or occult practice. There is no need to advertise and and seek some sort of social acceptance of it's practice.  It is not meant to be shared with or even necessarily understood by those not in the know. If you reveal too much of what you do, those that would wish to harm your image in the public eye can easily do so by appealing to the most base ignorance and fears of those around you. Don't give them that fuel when there is no need to. You study conjure enough and you will see the stealthy and hidden nature in which is has developed, and is continued to be deployed to this day. That has been cultivated over time for a reason, respect that, and it will serve you well. 

Back From New Orleans!

I spent a fabulous 5 days in New Orleans where I attended the 2nd annual Folk Magic Festival . I only took a few of the workshops available, but certainly gained some knowledge from them. I particularly enjoyed the graveyard magic workshop with Orion Foxwood. I also learned a lot by just communicating with the spirits of the city. Collected a some of moss from Bayou St. John, so look for some crafts utilizing that soon. Also got some clay from the bank of the Mississippi that I plan on using in a Jack Ball that I will be certainly be blogging about. I have been inspired by this trip and have so much to share with you all. So stay tuned for a lot of blogs coming your way. Going to to my best to go weekly from now until the end of the year.

I have some spirits that I need to thank here as well.

Thank you Santisima Muerte for your assistance in providing the means for me to take this trip. There is no questioning your power.

Thank You St. Christopher for protecting me in my travels.

Last but not least, thank you Marie Laveau for your answering my call. The first day there, I went to her tomb to leave offerings and ask her to lead me to a teacher or someone that could answer a very important question. A few hours later I was walking toward Dumaine with plans of going to Voodoo museum. I suddenly got the feeling that I should go right instead of left and ended up at Voodoo Authentica which I had not planned on visiting this time out in the city. I found Mama Lola in their doing readings. She took one look at me, laid down the cards, and answered my question without me saying a word. It is going to lead to a major change in my spiritual path.

I can't wait to go back next year!

Thank You Saint Expedite!

Thank you Saint Expedite for once again honoring me with your fast assistance.

I don't work with saints all that often but Expedite has been a great ally for me and my clients for sure. He is known as the unofficial patron saint of emergencies, dealers,examinees,schoolboys,sailors, navigators, shopkeepers, and anyone who needs a quick solution for their problem. This great saint has amassed a following from both Catholics and non-Catholics alike for one simple reason, he gets results. Petitioning Saint Expedite is quite simple, you will need:

• A Saint Expedite prayer card or printed out image of the saint.
• A Expedite class encased novena candle or a red candle
• A glass of water
• Fast Luck Oil or Powder (Optional) 

 Petitioning Saint Expedite doesn't require anything elaborate. Simply set up a space for his image, the candle and a glass of water. If you are so inclined you can write out your petition on a name paper, and dress it and the candle with fast luck oil, or powder. I prefer a seven day candle for my petitions and I repeat my prayer each day as the candle burns. I have started using a plate and tracing forming a circle with a cross in the center using fast luck powder. I then set the name paper and fixed candle on the plate. As long as you have his image on hand, and offer a sincere prayer you have his attention and if your need be genuine he will offer assistance. There are many prayers offered to him, you can find plenty on Saintexpedite.org or just speak from the heart. Here is the prayer that I use the most:

For quick help...

Pray to Saint Expedite

Saint Expedite, you lay in rest.
I come to you and ask that this wish be granted.

____________ (Clearly express what you want, and ask him to
find a way to get it to you.)

Expedite now what I ask of you.
Expedite now what I want of you, this very second.
Don't waste another day.
Grant me what I ask for.
I know your power, I know you because of your work.
I know you can help me.
Do this for me and I will spread your name with love and honor
so that it will be invoked again and again.
Expedite this wish with speed, love, honor, and goodness.
Glory to you, Saint Expedite!

 You recite your prayer until your request is granted. Once Saint Expedites work is done he expects to be "paid" just as fast. One of the main ways that he is thanked for his work is by making public announcements in his honor and letting others know of his great deeds. Hence why this particular post started out the way that it did. He is also offered a slice of pound cake (some say it has to be sara lee cake, but I don't think so), fresh flowers, and a glass of water. I always give him a slice of pound cake, a glass of fresh water, and a red rose as thanks. I use the glass from the candle as the vase for the rose and let the offerings sit on the altar for a week,  That's pretty much it in a nutshell. May Saint Expedite be as good to you as he has to me.

Review: Kenaz Filan's "The New Orleans Voodoo Handbook".

With the “New Orleans Voodoo Handbook” Kenaz Filan gives readers a guide not only to Voodoo as it is practiced in the city, but also the culture and history that has shaped it. Someone looking for a simple cookbook of spells and formulas will be sorely disappointed. The author being an initiate of Haitian Voudon knows that the way the religion is truly taught is through its stories, and this book has plenty of them. Part 1 of the book uses the first six chapters to cover the colorful history of Louisiana, and New Orleans. Beginning with La Salles Expedition, and covering topics such as the beginning of the industrial revolution, Jim Crow laws, and Hurricane Katrina along the way. This section also details the works of writers that have contributed to the study and preservation of local Voodoo lore, like Zora Neal Hurston with her seminal work “ Of Mules and Men”, and Robert Tallant author of “Voodoo in New Orleans”, and the novelization of Marie Laveau’s life, “Voodoo Queen”. The author manages to pack a lot of information into the first 56 pages of this book, and gives the reader a real feel for the roots of Voodoo in the Crescent City.

Part 2 of the handbook covers the various colorful traditions of New Orleans. There is a great primer on Mardi Gras, the party that the city has become famous (or infamous) for. You’ll learn not only the Roman and pagan history of the festival, but also how the celebration as we know it today has come to be. From there, Filan moves on to music with great stories about Dixie Land Jazz, Delta Blues, and Zydeco. Of course no book about New Orleans, Voodoo or otherwise would complete without discussing the cuisine that is made there. Covering local fare such as Pralines, Crawfish, Coffee with Chicory, and my personal favorite Gumbo, you really get a taste (bad pun intended) for the local flavor. The food many not seem to have much to do with Voodoo on the surface, but dig a little deeper and there is a correlation. Much like the rootwork that took shape in the city, the food of Louisiana took whatever they had available and made magic not only for the individual, but for the community as well. To this day, even though I learned some of my conjure formulas from my mother she is still more proud of, and secretive about her Gumbo recipe. That should tell you something right there. This part of the book also acts a guide to many of the local businesses and institutions that help preserve the local Voodoo customs and add character to the city. Included are places such as The Voodoo Spiritual Temple, Island of Salvation Botanica,and Boutique du Vampyre (if you look in the background of a documentary on “Real-life Vampires shot by ABC in 2009 you will see a certain conjurer standing in the background out front of the boutique). Part 2 ends with a section about “Priests, Priestesses, Houngans, Mambos, and Chicken Men” that have graced the city over the years. This includes the Legendary Dr. John, the Seven Sisters, and Fred “Chicken Man” Staten. I found the part about the Seven Sisters to be one of the best parts in this section as there is very little information on these legendary sisters that is readily available.

Parts 3 and 4 of this book cover the Spirits and practices of New Orleans respectively. While I was surprised at the omission of certain Lwa and spirits such as Ghede, I understand that this a book on Voodoo and it’s spirits that are unique to that region and not those that are also traditionally given service in Haiti. The Spirits sections give lore and details for petitioning and developing relationships with figures such as the Virgin Mary, Li Grand Zombi, Papa Labas, Black Hawk, and folk Saints like St. Expedite, and St. Marron. There is plenty of prayers, and information on offerings to get you started working with these powerful spirits. I already plan on making petitions to some of these spirits real soon myself. Even though the Ghede may have not been talked about, Importance of the dead, and the city’s cemeteries is covered. The practices section also briefly covers the use of oils, candles, creation of mojo/gris gris, and spirit dolls. The novice will find some useful recipes for oils and basic info on using candles but there isn’t much here for the experienced practitioner. Even still the information on the roots of these practices is as important to know as the how so I appreciated that aspect of this chapter. There is also a brief look at divination but with very little instruction. The book ends with a guide for those visiting the city, and stories of citizens of note that have called the city home. There are great tips for dining for those of expensive taste and others on a budget. Of course Music venues and the legendary cemeteries are covered for tourist as well.

Make no mistake about Kenaz Filan’s , ”The New Orleans Handbook” is the book that many have been waiting on in regards to the subject. It is a must have for anyone interested in New Orleans Voodoo either as a solitary practitioner or folklorist. I personally don’t think it quite hits the mark as a “handbook” but it is a great primer that his given a lot to go on, and more places to visit when I make my way to “N’awlins” this November for the Folk Magic Festival.

Thailand "Black Magic"

I have recently been trying to devour all of the information that I could find on Sak Yant magical tattoos and other uses of yantra in sorcery when came across this interesting documentary on Youtube. The film covers the making of various charms and forms of magic done by Buddhist in Thailand. I found the similarities to other forms of folk magic fascinating. When the sorcerer in the first part makes a name paper based on the husbands birth date, and then uses the as part of the petition along with wax poppets to reconcile a marriage and break up his love affair, I thought that's pretty much how I would do it too. I am also intrigued by the use of the "child ghost" as spirit helpers. I may just have to track one down. I believe that a trip to Thailand is in my future next year. Well here is the documentary, enjoy.

How to Write a Hoodoo Style Name Paper

Often in Hoodoo candle burning rituals a petition paper or name paper is made and set under the candle during the burning. Name papers are also used in mojo hands, and placed inside shoes for certain workings.  There are almost as many ways to make name papers as there are rootworkers. I am going to explain the basics of how I do it.

I was always taught that the name paper should be made from a brown paper bag. I do';t think this is a hard and fast rule however. You can use parchment, or blank white paper as well. I still use brown paper bags since I keep them on hand for other things such as disposing of items at crossroads. The paper should usually be torn by hand and not cut with scissors or a knife. The reason for this is that scissors and other blades being symbolic of weapons are usually used in enemy work or conjure meant to break up magical influence and bewitchment. So unless the name paper is being used for such a purpose then tear it by hand. I usually use a bone folder to get a good crease and then tear along that edge. You can find bone folders located in the scrap booking section of most craft stores for pretty cheap.

Using a Bone Folder to Crease the Paper

Tear along the creases as carefully as possible, It doesn't have to be perfect by any means. It should look something like this when you are done.

Next the name of the petitioner(s), and the condition that you want to bring about are written in the form of a cross on the paper. I was taught that the number of times the name(s) are written should always be an odd number such as 3,5,7,or 9. I use 3 for manifestation, 5 for domination and power, 7 for blessings and luck, and 9 for enemy work and cursing. If I am burning the candle for myself or a client I will write them name first and then cross the name with words representing their desire. If it is a working for one person to have power or influence over another I write the name of the target and then cover their name with the person who will be dominant in the situation. The following is an example of a name paper that I made for a steady work candle for a friend.

First I wrote her name seven times

Next I turned the paper twice clockwise and wrote the words "STEADY WORK". If you wish to bring or attract something the direction should be clockwise. If you wish to banish or repel with the working turn it counterclockwise.

Next you will want to write a short but precise petition phrase in a circle around the names. The name phrase should be written in one continuous motion going clockwise. You then go back and dot your I's and cross your T's. The phrase I used was "May Jane Doe obtain steady work with a wage sufficient enough to meet all of her financial needs". You will want to dress your name paper with an appropriate oil, powder or both before folding it. One traditional way of anointing the paper is by putting a dab of oil in each corner and then one in the center, this is known as a "5 spot". I personally anoint it in the form of a cross going top to bottom and then right to left. I will then anoint the circle of words going clockwise.

Next you will want to fold your name paper. The first fold should be toward you for drawing or away for repelling.  In this case the fold was toward me.

Next turn the paper once, again clockwise for drawing or counterclockwise for banishing.

Fold again the same direction you did before

Repeat this process a second time and you should end up with something that looks like this.

That's my method in a nutshell. I used different colors here to illustrate the various parts of the name paper, but one can be made using one color. They can  be written with pen, pencil, or quill and magical inks.

How To Fix a Seven Day Novena Candle

So I finally decided to upload something to my Youtube Channel. Here is a quick tutorial on how to fix a seven day novena candle. I will follow this up shortly with posts on how write petition/name papers and another on doing reading the glass after the candle has been burnt. So look forward to those soon.

Crafting Up A Storm

Here recently I have been crafting up a storm and  made quite a few handmade items I thought I would share. I am not a strict, make everything by hand kind of worker by any means. I do however feel that making certain things by hand, especially tools, or items that are meant to connect with a spirit puts the worker closer to the energies that they wish to work with during the process. So if you have the chance D.I.Y a few things, you and your work will be better for it.

Cleansing Broom: I was inspired to make a broom after reading a soon to be released work on Witchcraft that a friend of mine is wrote                                                  . The broom may not be a traditional hoodoo tool exactly but some practitioners utilize it. Also the symbolism of the broom straw has made it into spells and staple items such as Chinese Wash.  The broom part itself came from a dollar store, which is one of my favorite places to get craft supplies. The handle came from a branch that I found in the woods during one of the trials that I undertook for Cabal Fang Martial Arts. For some reason it just stood out to me so I picked it up at the beginning of the trial and carried it throughout.  Originally I was going to make a staff out of it so I stripped it of bark, sanded it a bit and oiled it. I had to cut it down some more to make a broom handle. I attached the handle by binding he straw around it with hemp rope and metal wire.

Closeup of Broom

Saint Cyprian of Antioch bracelet:  Made with wooden and metal beads. It is hard to tell from the pic but the round beads are purple which is the color associated with this saint. I also incorporated black beads in there as his day is Saturday. Cyprian of Antioch is known as the Patron Saint of Magicians, Rootworkers, Curanderos, and the like. He is also closely associated with the grimoire tradition so to honor that the purple and black beads total 11 on each side. In addition to the Cyprian charm I included a little bible charm to symbolize the link to Hoodoo.

 Closeup of Cyprian Bracelet

Ancestral Prayer Beads: I used to wear a Tibetan skull prayer bracelet that I got from a Tibetan store in the East Village. That served as my ancestral prayer beads until it broke one day. So recently I broke out the crafts box and made it into a new string of prayer beads that is more personal. Not really rooted in any one tradition. I am calling them the "Blood and Bones" prayer beads.

Ancestor Prayer Beads on the Altar.

5BS #5: Goofer Dust.

Goofer Dust is one of the most potent and dangerous powders used in the practice of conjure. The word goofer is said to derive from the Kikongo word "kufwa," which means "to kill".  Goofer dust is quite literally a killing powder. It works slowly over time eroding the targets health and all other aspects of their life. It is deployed in a manner of different ways such as, foot tracks magic, bottle spells, used to snuff out candles, and even love spells. The ingredients for the dust vary according to a practitioner's personal style. The main ingredient is a base of graveyard dirt. Some gather this dirt from the graves of criminals and persons known to be violent within their former lives, Not everyone does this however. Cemetery work and gathering dirt is a very delicate process and is not to be done lightly or without proper instruction.This is not something that I will go into detail about within this post.

Other known ingredients are usually used for their symbolic or potentially poisonous natures, such as sulfur, snake skin or sheds, black salt, dried feces,bone dust, and iron filings. I think that the presence of iron filings within the formula points to the true origins of how this powder was originally prepared and empowered. While iron has been associated with both good workings such as repelling evil, and in negative aspects such as being referred to as the "Bones of Set" in Egyptian folklore, it has one interesting use that makes sens in regards to goofer dust. Iron bars are used around cemeteries to keep the spirits of the dead within it's confines. The same material could be used to keep spiritual energy trapped inside the powder as well. A spiritual energy that would be attached to the powder both from the graveyard dirt, and also from bone used within the powder as a base for a particular spirit to work through,  Essentially goofer dust when made in the traditional sense is far more necromantic then it is given credit for today. It is "conjure" in the purest sense of the word. Or perhaps it would be better to say it is a healthy mix of necromancy and pharmakos. 

Originally this was planned as a tutorial on exactly how to create this powder. I have sense been informed by my ancestors that this is not knowledge for me to give away completely at this time. I do feel that I have given enough information for one to continue their research and go about the process of creating their own mixture if they so choose. As always I can only urge that you cast responsibly. 

I want to thank everyone that has made this series of postings a success. I appreciate all of the love that I have been getting from readers via both Facebook and Twitter. I means a lot to knowing that people are reading and learning new things to add to their own practice. You all certainly make the work and effort worthwhile. 

Want a limited edition, hand painted box containing all of the items in this series crafted by Brother Ash ? Click (Here)

With Regards,

Bother Ash

"You must have the Devil in you to succeed in the arts." Voltaire

"Don't quote me boy cuz I ain't said shit." Eazy-E

Enemy Work and Morality

It would be irresponsible of me to devote a month to talking about enemy workings without addressing the morality involved. Looking from the outside at Hoodoo one could be easily confused. How can a worker use Psalms, prayers, and saints one minutes, and then goofer dust in the next? How does a rootworker justify this ? To make sense of it all we need only understand one key principle.

Enemy Work is not Revnge Work
 
This may seem counter intuitive because clearly if someone has made an enemy out of you they have wronged you in some way. Wouldn't counteraction be considered revenge? The answer is no, not if it's approached properly. A true rootworker does not act out of emotion or anger. Enemy work is only undertaken when justice has not been served or it is clear that such actions are the only way to stop the person from doing anymore harm. A skilled worker would first pray to their higher power, speak with ancestors, or perform some kind of divination before taking action. More often than not, after contemplation cooler heads will prevail. However when the work has to be done , it is done swiftly out of duty, not fear or hatred. Remember that a rootworker may not start fights but they sure as hell don't hesitate to finish one. There is a thin line between proper enemy work and crossing. Tread lightly.

5BS #4: Commanding Oil

Commanding oil is not exclusively an enemy work item, but I am fond of using it as such. If you have someone taking actions against you one of the best things to do is to simply command them to stop. Not ask nicely, or make a strong suggestion, but command them to cut the shit. Commanding oil and powder will do the trick. I usually use commanding oil in candle workings and the powder to dress poppets. As always they can also be deployed in foot tracks magic as well.

For commanding oil you will need:

Licorice Root

Frankincense

Calamus Root

Bergamot Essential Oil

A Glass Jar

A Carrier Oil (Almond, Jojoba, or Olive)

 

Break off Some Pieces of Licorice Root

Add the licorice root bits and a few pinches of frankincense and calamus root to the jar. Cover with oil.

Add Four drops or so of Bergamot oil to this mixture, Cap it tightly and shake it. Store this in a cool dark place. Shake daily and allow to seep for at least a week or until the oil has taken o the scent of the other items. Strain through a cheesecloth into another glass jar. Add a few pieces of licorice root to the finished oil. Also you can add a few drops of tincture of benzoin to the oil to prevent it from going rancid. See previous post for instructions on how to make that tincture. 
Want a limited edition, hand painted box containing all of the items in this series crafted by Brother Ash ? Click (Here)

5BS #3: Black Arts Oil

Black Arts Oil and powder are used for two purposes, one being crossing and the other is pact making rituals with demons or the Devil himself.  Most of the ingredients in this blend are standard ones found in many used for crossing, such as black pepper, sulfur,  and Spanish moss. One ingredient in particular seems to give Black Arts its evocational or pact making quality and that is mullein. While mullein is used for its crossing properties , it can also be used to protect from and command the infernal forces. Including this herb in your blend will increase your ability to coerce the forces called upon.  If you don’t plan on using black arts to call upon demons I would consider mullein optional. 

For crossing purposes you can sprinkle the oil or powder in the path of your enemy to cross and cause them great pain. I have also used it to anoint candles, poppets, and petition papers for enemy work.  For pact making rites I anoint myself, the candles and written pact with the oil. You can also use the powder to lay out the triangle of evocation. I don’t recommend using this oil or powder for demonic  workings without plenty of research, a solid regimen of spiritual cleansing, and a practiced method of spiritual protection. 

To make this blend out will need:

·         Patchouli

·         Vandal Root

·         Black Mustard Seeds

·         Spanish Moss

·         Mullein*

·         Sulpher

·         9 Whole Black Peppercorns

Add a pinch each of patchouli, vandal root, black mustard seeds, Spanish moss, mullein, and sulpher  to ½ ounce of carrier oil such as almond. I use jojoba  for my carrier. Let seep for at least a week in a cool dark place.  Shake it daily. Strain through cheesecloth into a bottle and add the 9 black peppercorns to the bottle. You can also add tincture of benzoin to keep the blend from going rancid.  I personally don’t mind having my black arts oil go rancid due to its nature. To make Black Arts Powder, grind all of the ingredients and add them a base of cornstarch. 

Tincture of Benzoin

Add 2 ounces of benzoin gum powder to 4 oz of water and 12 oz of clear alcohol such as vodka or everclear.  Keep capped for two weeks and shake daily.  Strain and bottle for use. 

I apologize for the lack pf pics in this tutorial. Camera Crapped out. Will be up and running with pics by the next post. 

Want a limited edition, hand painted box containing all of the items in this series crafted by Brother Ash ? Click (Here)

FBS # 2: Hot Foot Powder

I have changed the order around and decided to leave Goofer dust for the very last post as it will be a subject that will require some depth to cover. So this time we are focusing on Hot Foot Powder.

Hot Foot Powder is a traditional Hoodoo mixture used to remove an unwanted person from your life, home, neighborhood, or city. When "this town isn't big enough for the both of us", it's time to Hot Foot. Sometimes when dealing with enemies it is best to drive them far away where they can do no more harm. To make this powder you will need:

Red Pepper

Chili Powder

Sulfur

Black Pepper

 

Cornstarch Base

If you ingredients aren't already powdered you can use a mortar and pestle to grind them or if your lazy like me a coffee grinder. I used my grinder for the black and red pepper for this powder. Just set it to fine and you should be good to go. Once all of the powdered ingredients are ready to go you:

Add The Ingredients to Your Cornstarch Base

Mix Thoroughly

Hot Foot Powder Mixed Completely

Store In An Airtight Container

When my mother taught me to make powders it was the same way as when she cooked. So I couldn't tell you any exact measure measurements. I pretty much measure in handfuls and keep adding until it is the correct color and smell that I am looking for, If it's clearing your sinuses then you are on the right track, Trust your gut. There are many ways to deploy this powder. One the most traditional is through foot track magic. You would sprinkle it in the path of the person you wish to effect there you know they will walk. Make sure that you are waking backwards when you lay a powder like this or risk hot footing yourself!

5 Black Saturdays Pt 1: Poppets

I always prefer to use a poppet whenever possible for  enemy work.  They are just very  hands one to me and get me in the right mindset for the task at hand. Poppets can be made from a variety of materials such as clay, wax, straw, spanish moss. When I make poppets, my go to is usually a spanish moss one. Making a spanish moss poppet is the essence of simplicity.

You will need:

Two Strong Sticks

 The sticks can be any kind of wood. You can chose a wood that corresponds to the purpose of the poppet if you chose. I have used bamboo skewers in a pinch with no problems.

Cord Or String To Tie the Sticks Together and Bind the Moss to the Sticks

 In this doll I am using raffia to bind the sticks and the moss. You can use any material that you wish. I usually use jute or raffia as they are natural fibers and strong enough for my purposes.

Spanish Moss

 Spanish Moss is traditionally used in dolls that are meant to represent a person no matter what condition the doll is created for.

Rectangle of Fabric. Black in this Case

Cord, String, or Ribbon to Bind the Outside of the Poppet

 The color of the cord should match the intent of the doll. I like to use waxed thread (Tandy Leather in this case) because it binds so well

Step  One:

Tie the Two Sticks Together in a "T" Shape

Step 2:

Wrap the Sticks With Spanish Moss

Step 3:

Use Cord to Bind Moss to the Sticks

Step 4: 

Lay the Fabric Over the Poppet and Bind With Cord

That's it. Pretty quick and simple. I tend to make a mess with the spanish moss and probably spend more time cleaning up than making the doll. You can add any pictures, personal concerns, or details to the doll that represent the target at this time. Once the doll is made it just needs to be consecrated and then "baptized" for the work at hand. 

Baptizing Your Doll

The process of baptizing your doll is essentially the final task in naming the doll after the intended target and making your will be known that this poppet will act as a sympathetic link to them. Your ritual should be along the lines of this:

“I baptize thee (Name), in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost (you
may substitute your personal Higher Power here). In life, this is now that who
I wish you to be. All that is asked of you happens now as I so do command.”
“As day goes by and time is infinite, I alone now control the deepest desires,
dreams, and actions of (Name of doll or person whom the doll represents).
Your life is now as joyful servant to me and my family, you are mine to
control, for my purpose alone.”

Credit: Denise Alvarado "Voodoo Dolls in Magick and Ritual"

While speaking the words I anoint the forehead of the poppet with Black Arts oil in the form of a cross. Once  baptized you can use it in any spell that calls for a poppet.

Hope You enjoyed Part 1! Remember, share all five posts on either Facebook or Twitter and be entered to win you own "Black Box" with all five handmade items from this series and 4 surprise items used in enemy work. See you next week for part 2.

Want a limited edition, hand painted box containing all of the items in this series crafted by Brother Ash ? Click (Here)