The gris-gris bags are predecessors of the Voodoo dolls and are still being used in the New Orleans tradition to protect from evil, attract love, bring luck, money and career growth. Traditionally, gris-gris bags are in 5x8cm sizes from flannel, suede or thin leather. There are certain materials and objects that fill the gris-gris bags, such as dried herbs, crushed minerals, bones, coins, amulets and talismans. Each of these elements has certain symbolism to it (read more about it below).
Important points to be followed and considered when creating gris-gris bags:
- The color of the bag plays a significant role. Read more about Color Symbolism in Voodoo Dolls.
- There must be a specific amount of filling ingredients inside of the bag – no less than 3 and no more than 13.
- The symbolism of the filler ingredients must be respected and matched to the specific gris-gris bag.
- The surface of the gris-gris is lubricated with an oil that is relevant for the purpose.
- The bag must be fumigated with incense or candle smoke before use.
When creating a gris-gris bag, imagine a goal that you wish to achieve and constantly keep thinking about how it will come true. The finished bag is then placed or hung in an open prominent place, reminding you of your wishes.
Symbolism and purpose of filling ingredients
Attracting Love
- Rice flour or cornstarch
- Patchouli
- Orris powder
- Vanilla extract
Good Luck
- Rice flour or cornstarch
- Wintergreen oil
- Patchouli
- Cinnamon
Prophetic Dreams
- Rice flour or cornstarch
- Liquorice root
- Cardamom seeds
- Cinnamon
- Coriander leaves
Leave a little bit of powder when filling the gris-gris, so that you go pour it on your bed sheet before going to sleep.
Neutralizing Bad Luck and Curses
- Rice flour or cornstarch
- Mint leaves
- Wintergreen oil
- Daisy petals
Wealth and Money
- Rice flour or cornstarch
- Pine needles
- Kalgan root
- Ginger root
- Patchouli
The powders are often mixed with some earth from the cemetery, in white magic it’s specifically earth from a child’s grave.