Òrìṣà Àṣẹ (Aché de Santos/Ashe de Orisha/Acheses)

One set of asé (organic, fair trade, and wild harvested).

What’s Included

(1) Whole “4-eyed” Ikin (Sacred Palm Nut/Oloju
Merin/Awìnrìn-Ikin) (Elaeis guineensis)

(1) Whole Obi Edun (Monkey Kola/Atewo-edun) (Cola Lepidota)

(1) Whole Nigerian Black Pepper pod (Eeru Alamo/Uda Pepper/Grains of Selim/“Ero”) (Xlopia Aetheiopica)

(1) .5 oz packet of Red Sandalwood (Camwood/“Osun”/“Ozun”) powder (Pterocarpus soyauxii)

Origin: Nigeria

Cultural Note

Like most indigenous languages a word has many different meanings and carries so much depth of meaning, signified by the context. An example of this is the word àṣẹ. This Yorùbá word can be defined as: 1. vitality or the life-force that runs through all things, living and inanimate; 2. personal spiritual authority or the power to make things happen; 3. an affirmation that is used in greetings and prayers; 4. a concept of spiritual growth.

These traditional ingredientshave their own àṣẹ and are recognized as having a special power given by Olódùmarè. They are most used in the Ifá/Òrìṣà tradition. They represent the wisdom of the Òrìṣà and have the ability to connect with divinities. These sacred elements essential for the most important consecrations and ceremonies of the tradition to enhance the àṣẹ of the òrìṣà and are also commonly used in spiritual cleansings, rituals and ceremonies.

Ikin are seeds obtained from the fruit of palm trees. They are characterized by their distinct divots or "eyes" found on the bottom base of the seed. Ikin with 4 or more “eyes” are most commonly used for divination with the òrìṣà, Òrúnmìlà. Ikin found with more than 4 eyes are very rare. 

Obi has a wide range of spiritual uses and meaning depending on the species. It is one of the most common ingredients used in West African culture not only for spiritual rituals but also cultural ceremonies, ingredients in traditional meals, and medicine. Like ikin, the number of lobes an obi carries a different symbolism and determines the use. 

Alligator pepper has a power that extends beyond mere spice; it is a symbol of abundance and fertility as well as powerful in warding off negative energies. It has the special ability to enhance prayers and is known for its ability to cleanse and purify the human body. Very significant in Yorùbá culture, this pepper is used in traditional ceremonies such as: engagements, weddings, baby naming, funerals, etc.

Nigerian Black pepper is used in a variety of traditional dishes and medicinal preparations. Spiritually, it is know to be great in protection spells and rituals. 

Red Sandalwood powder is associated with the fire element. It is a common ingredient used to enhance spells. It is often mixed with other herbs and oils to make powerful amulets for protection and good luck.