New Orleans is a melting pot of nationalities, religions and origins. You can see the influence of a blended culture in the way we cook our food, celebrate and worship. The Haus of Hoodoo is a local apothecary and botanica that houses the tools to help you channel the magic of those before you and conjure your own. The Haus of Hoodoo isn’t only a place to shop for your favorite metaphysical items but a place where the community can come together in ritual.
Occasional celebrations are hosted at the Haus of Hoodoo such as the most recent, Fèt Bèl Fame Ceremony. A celebration for the women of Vodou that honors Empresses, Queens and Princesses. The community is invited to join and petition Haitian deities such as Erzulie and rejoice in dance, chants and offerings. Some would say the Haus of Hoodoo itself is a community alter.
Incase you’re in need of a guide, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite items from the Haus of Hoodoo. You don’t have to be initiated into any organizations or practice a particular religion to use the following items but we advise you to set clear intentions when building magic.
Haus of Hoodoo Resins
The Haus of Hoodoo has several resins you can utilize for various purposes. Everything you can think of from cleansing a space to healing the emotions, there is a resin for it. Resins are normally burned over charcoal and left burning until the smoke settles. Our favorite Resins from the Haus of Hoodoo are the Copal, Frankincense and the Archangel blessing resin.
Peppermint Leaf
As a true apothecary, the Haus of Hoodoo shelves are filled with herbs. Native Americans used plants to heal illnessses and as offerings to their ancestors. One of my favorite herbs is the Peppermint Leaf which is versatile. My favorite way to use this herb is to place it in the corners of my home for 12 hours, allowing it to absorb any unwanted energy. You can literally feel the difference once you sweep the leaf up. This herb purifies, uncrosses, draws in money and love and induces sleep when restless.
Tree of Life Incense
It’s not hard to fall in love with incense. Incense is one of the first tools most people use to alter energy in a space. The Tree of Life incense is very powerful but not in an intense way. Burning this incense brings peace and healing in any space it’s burning in.
Haus of Hoodoo Rose Oil
The floral oils are new to the Haus of Hoodoo collection and we’re happy they’re now apart of the family. The floral oil line includes several floral extracts like lilac oil, dandelion oil, lavender oil and magnolia oil. Our favorite is the rose essence oil. The rose has always been a representation of love and dedication and is said to be the highest vibrating plant of them all.
Haus of Hoodoo Haitian Kreyol Powders
The Kreyol Powders are great for fixing candles and intensifying spell work. My favorite is the Lesem Pasé, which is a road opener, used to clear the path ahead. All of these powders are great to have in your personal spiritual tool box and adds beauty to rituals with their vibrant colors.
Incense and Resin Burners
The Haus of Hoodoo has a beautiful collection of Resin burners. Think of them as a glamorous adornment to any alter or shelf. Resin burners are meant to withstand the heat from the burning items inside and come in a few designs, including the infamous gold burner used in Catholic Churches.
Rose and Lavender Bundles
Rose and lavender bundles are colorful and very potent in smell. The rose bundle is to invoke love and sensuality, while the lavender bundle is used to calm. Be mindful when burning both because when a space is depleted of the energy these bundles are used to channel, the bundles will burn until it’s a pile of ashes.
Haus of Hoodoo Holy Water
Holy water is a recently added item and I’m sure I wasn’t the only one that was seriously excited about the new item on the shelves. Holy Water is used in baptisms and for blessing spaces and items. Normally, blessed by an Ordained Priest.
Kananga Water
Kananga water is a type of Florida Water that is used for protection. I’ve used this water in floor washes to mop my home, sprayed in my vehicle and sprinkled on my clothing. It’s a quick and easy grab when in need of a barrier but it is very powerful.
Header Photography Credit: Haus of Hoodoo