Hoodoo Cleansing and Protection Magic

August 7, 2020

Hoodoo is a magickal practice particular to New Orleans and surrounding regions in the South. Developed by enslaved Africans, the religion is a blend of West African beliefs, Native American customs, and Catholicism. Similar to other forms of conjure, Hoodoo utilizes herbs, roots, specialty waters, candles, incense, stones, crystals, incantations, and prayers in its practice. Aida (Destroying Relationships: Hoodoo Spells To Break Up, Separate, Hot Foot, and Drive off Foes and Rivals) applies a sophisticated lens to provide authoritative and extensive uses of Hoodoo for both identifying and managing problems from the disagreeable (annoying people, spells gone awry, funky household energy) to the worrisome (dangerous individuals, illness, harmful spirits, bewitched objects). Many of the spells and rituals are as simple as common house cleaning chores and implements, while others are more complex, requiring patience, attention to detail, and specific artifacts. Aida emphasizes personal accountability and study in order to avoid scammers and cults, and urges contacting professionals or the authorities in more serious scenarios, such as domestic abuse or sexual predation. VERDICT Fascinating, well-written, real-life stories illustrate the uses and power of Hoodoo practice. Students of the occult will find this a more than worthy read.--Janet Tapper, formerly with Univ. of Western States Lib., Portland, OR

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