Guide To Afro-Cuban Herbs

Guide to Afro-Cuban
Herbalism
By
Dalia Quiros-Moran
2003 by Dalia Quiros-Moran. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or
transmitted by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording,
or otherwise, without written permission from the author.
ISBN: 1-4107-4630-5 (e-book)
ISBN: 1-4107-4629-1 (Paperback)
Library of Congress Control Number: 2003092640
This book is printed on acid free paper.
Printed in the United States of America
Bloomington, IN
1stBooks - rev. 08/28/03
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
This work arises out of a research project assigned by Oba Oriate Miguel
Ramos, Ilari Oba during one of his Orisha Worship seminars. I wish to acknowledge
my gratitude for the stimulating influence of his teachings, and for being such an
inspiring mentor whose principles continue to impact on my work as an Olorisha.
My recognition is due to many people that have given me their assistance in this
project; I am especially grateful to Oba Oriate Jorge Perez, Oba Oriate Wagner
Barreto, Oluwo William Garcia Rosallie, Ika Ogunda; Oluwo Alejandro Cruzado, Iwori
Bogbe; Olorisa Carina Aparicio, Shango Omo Alade and the late "La Guardia".
Last but not least I thank my family and godchildren for their support and
encouragement.
To all of the persons mentioned above and the many others I have not
mentioned, my most sincere appreciation.
iii
iv
INTRODUCTION
Since the beginning of time, Humankind has depended on Nature to preserve, improve or
recuperate health. As Earth evolved, atmospheric conditions and landscape changed, resulting
in an assortment of plant life, a diversity of herbs that can be used to treat similar diseases in
the various geographic locations.
Over a long period of time, each culture in the World developed its own healing system. The
use of vegetal species with healing properties is revealed in early documents and inscriptions
of Ancient Babylonia, Egypt, Mesopotamia, India, China, among others. Perhaps the oldest
evidence of all is the Babylonian Hammurabi Code, which accounts for the use of numerous
medicinal plants.
Inscriptions of medicinal plants can be found in The Karnack temple of Egypt; a compilation of
medicinal plants still used in this day and age. In India, ancient healing traditions date back to
the years 1400 and 1500 BC; these were oral traditions at first, then documented in the sacred
books of Veda, written in the Sanskrit language. Chinese traditional medicine also dates to four
thousand years ago; records of illnesses, medicines and treatment methods were found
inscribed on oracle bones from the Shang Dynasty. A number of Chinese medical treatises
were found written on silk banners and bamboo slips. These treatises were transcribed
between the Chin and Han Dynasties and represent the oldest surviving Chinese medical
literature.
In the African continent, communities have been applying indigenous beliefs, knowledge, skills
and cultural practices concerned with human health for more than four thousand years. African
traditional healing focuses deeply into the psychological, spiritual, and social contexts of illness
by using healing ceremonies and natural medicinal preparations. This healing system believes
that many afflictions come from destabilizing forces; protection against them involves warding
off the negative forces and maintaining equilibrium with the fellow man, the spirits, and the
ancestors. Thus African traditional healers take into consideration both the medicinal and
spiritual powers of each plant, since their purpose not only lies on counteracting the forces of
disease in the human body, but also to accomplish spiritual balance.
For the last four centuries African traditional healing has also been part of the daily lives of
individuals in the Caribbean, and the Americas due to the influx of African slaves into the New
World. Captives from the various African territories identified similarities in the New World's
flora and continued to practice traditional healing.
Particularly, during Cuba's slavery times, African traditional medicine merged with pre-existing
aboriginal medicine, Spaniard traditional medicine and to a lesser proportion, Chinese
traditional medicine. This combination constituted Afro-Cuban traditional medicine which has
been passed down from generation to generation until the present time, consequently, plants
continue to be prized for their medicinal properties as well as the special range of energies,
vibrations or powers they possess.
This book embraces the medicinal action of over 700 plants and their power beyond the normal
range of perception. It is intended to serve as a reference to anyone re-discovering the roots of
Humanity in our quest for physical and spiritual healing.
vi
Guide to Afro-Cuban Herbalism
Gathering the Plants

Every herbalist should know the use of each plant, its characteristic appearance, odor, growth
pattern, and properties. It's very important to correctly identify the desired plant; some plants
look similar but can have drastically different properties.
Identifying plants by common names or verbal descriptions is not recommended; common
names can change from region to region, and verbal descriptions may omit a critical identifying
characteristic.
Gathering of healing plants should be done with respect, care and tenderness. First, pay the
necessary offerings to ensure the effectiveness of the herbs. Traditionally, herbalists let the
plant know what they want from it before they gather it and use it for medicinal or magical
purposes.
There are specific times and seasons in which to gather plants so their healing properties are
optimized. Healing plants are harvested in harmony with the movement of the heavenly bodies
such as the moon, sun, etc.
Basic factors about gathering healing plants:
Plants are at their best when in bloom, just before going to seed or fruit.
Plants should be picked up on the full moon, right after sunrise when the dew has
dried.
Gathering of healing plants should not be done after sun down.
Plants should never be gathered while it is raining or at noontime.
Aromatic plants should be gathered at sunrise; bitter tasting plants right before
sundown.
Roots should be harvested before the plant blooms, just before sunrise or after
sunset.
Barks should be gathered after sunrise, preferably in the fall or spring, during full
moon, through the dry season or before new leaves begin to grow.
To gather the plants, always use a sharp cutting object such as shears, or a machete,
depending on their age or size. Annuals should be cut off at ground level, and perennials about
one-third down the main stem, including the side branches.
To avoid plant damage, observe the following criteria:
Leaves - Cut off side branches only.

Bark Cut lengthwise, at an angle.
Flowers, fruits and seeds Always leave some to insure reproduction.
Roots Cut thicker roots without affecting the main stem.
When taking leaves or branches of a plant, collect just enough to suit your needs; always leave
enough for the plant to survive. Any plant part that has signs of disease or discoloration should
not be harvested. Never harvest in areas that have been sprayed with insecticides or
herbicides, or that have been exposed to the dust, fumes or contaminants that can render the
plants poisonous.
After collecting the plants, rinse the leaves and stems with cold running water to remove any
soil, dust, bugs or other foreign material. Remove blossoms from the plants before using.
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
Medicinal
Constipation. Skin rashes. Swollen feet.
Vaginal infections.
ABA / SAND BOX TREE

(Hura crepitans)
Other names:
Brazil Assacu, Acacu
Colombia Ceiba amarilla, Ceiba de
leche
Cuba - Haba, Salvadera
Haiti Rabi
Kongo - Finli
Lukumi Abaa
Mexico Arbol del Diablo
U.S. Monkey's dinner bell, possum wood
Venezuela Ceiba blanca, Ceiba habillo
Religious/Magical:
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Inle.
ABRAN DE COSTA / WOODLAND
COFEE
(Bunchosia nitida)
Other names:
Cuba - M... de gallina
Haiti Bois Senti
Description
Tree reaching up to 90 feet. The bark is
covered with conical thorns. The leaves
are long-stemmed, papery thin, heartshaped and up to 2 feet long; the flowers
are red. The wood is soft, pale yellow or
brown. The seedpod explodes producing
a loud sound that disperses the seeds all
over. The plant produces a milky juice.
Description
Indigenous shrub with an unpleasant, fetid
odor. The wood is dark, hard and
compact; fine grain. The leaves are
glossy; yellow flowers.
USES
Medicinal
Inflammation. Protruding navel in newborn
children.
USES
Medicinal
Eczema, circulatory ailments, constipation,
paralysis, tired legs and feet,
Religious/ Magical
Orisha worship
Belongs to Inle.
Rites of Palo
For healing rituals.
For cleansings.
Used to ward off evil eye in healing

rituals.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba
Used to make ritual omiero.
Used for purification, to banish

negative energies and for protection.
ABRECAMINO / THOROUGHWORT
(Eupatorium villosum)
ABELMOSCO: Ambarina
Other names:
Cuba
Albahaquilla,
rompezaraguey.
U.S. Bitter bush
ABEY MACHO / BLACK POUI

(Jacaranda Sagraeana)
Other names:
Cuba - Abey macho
Lukumi Egbelegun
U.S.A. - Boxwood
tribulillo,
Description
Indigenous perennial plant 3-4 feet high.
The leaves are aromatic, 4-8 inches long,
rough, serrate, and taper to a long point.
Fuzzy, white or pale purple flower heads.
Blossoms appear in August and
September.
Description
Large tree with beautiful foliage, showy
lilac flowers, Wood is fairly hard and
compact. Found in calcareous soils and
lower areas.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Ague, cold, constipation, cough, cystitis,
dyspepsia, flu, fluid retention, gout,
headache, intermittent fever, jaundice,
malaria, muscle cramp, nervousness,
night-time urination, peripheral blood
circulation,
pleurisy,
pneumonia,
rheumatism, sore throat, spasm, stuffy
nose, tumor, urinary stones, wound.
Medicinal:
Asthma, boils, congestion, eye itching and
inflammation, gas, gonorrhea, gout,
impotence,
incontinence
of
urine,
inflammation, kidney diseases, leprosy,
liver ailments, nocturnal emissions in
males, ophthalmia, painful urination,
psoriasis, scabious skin diseases, tumors,
stomatitis.
Religious/Magical
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Inle
Correlating Odu: Oshe Eyioko, Oshe
Iroso.
Rites of Palo
Works with the Nkisi.
Abaku Society
For rituals. Known as "Mendiba".
Used for purification baths.
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba,
Babalu Aye and Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Otura Obara, Otura
Ika, Otura Otrupon,
To pack amulets and Eshu Elegba.
Used for Babalu Aye rituals
Rites of Palo
Works with the Nkisi
Used to make Nkisi lango.
Used for purification baths and

cleansing of the household.
Protects from negativity and attracts

good fortune.
For love spells.
In amulets to overcome legal issues.
ABROJO AMARILLO/PUNCTURE VINE

(Tribulus cistoides)
Other names:
Cuba - Abrojo Amarillo
Kongo - Fugw
Lukumi Ber Oggn
U.S. Jamaican Fever Plant
ABROJO / JAMAICAN FEVERPLANT

(Tribulus cistoides)
Description
Weed shrub to vine with diffusely
branching stems. The leaves are elliptic.
Showy, bright yellow flowers. The fruit is
hard, wide; produces a few stout spines.
Other names:
Haiti - Poupye, Zb Soleil, Herse
Kongo - Fugw
Lukumi - Ber oggn
Mexico Abrojo Rojo
Puerto Rico - Abrojo
U.S. Large yellow caltrop, puncture
plant,
goathead
Venezuela Yerba de pasmo
USES
Medicinal
Taken internally in small quantities to
expulse the placenta.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun and Inle.
Rites of Palo
For rituals and ceremonies.
For Nkisi Lango
Description
Annual or biennial plant growing to 12
inches. Found in dry open habitats, and
sandy seashores. It is in flower from April
to August. The roots are thick, woody.
Yellow flowers. Fruit spiny, divided into
five segments, with 3 to 5 seeds.
Dalia Quiros-Moran
bluntly pointed at the tip, rounded at the

base, entire. Flowers on numerous lateral
racemes, pinkish, united in a tube, one
separate white. Pods yellow-green when
immature, turning blackish; elliptic, flat,
shiny, black seed.
ABROJO TERRESTRE / BIG

CALTROPS
(Kallistroemia maxima)
Other names:
Cuba - Abrojo
Kongo - Ngngo
Lukumi - Ewe Shoro, igbeleggn
USES
Description
Annual/Biennial growing up to 12 inches
high. It is in flower from April to August.
Grows on dry open habitats, often as a
weed in sandy seashores. The stems and
leaves are succulent; flowers are yellow.
The fruit is green, reddish green when
mature.
Medicinal
Boils, bruises, burns, colds, cough,
debility, eruptions, erysipelas, fever,
fractures, gangrene, head-ache, itch,
prickly heat, rheumatism, skin, sore,
tumors, ulcers, urticaria, and wounds.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
Correlating Odu: Iwori Ofun, Ika Irete, and
Otura Meji.
To pack amulets and Eshu Elegba.
Rites of Palo
In baths and household cleansings to

attract prosperity
USES
Medicinal
Asthma, boils, eye itching and irritation,
superfluous hair, tumors, ulcers.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Inle.
Rites of Palo
For Nkisi Lango
For purification and cleansings.
To reverse spells and send them

back to the sender.
ACANA / WILD DILLY

(Manilkara Albescens)
Other names:
Cuba - Acan blanca
Dominican Republic - Nisperillo
Haiti - Sapotille marron, bois huile
Puerto Rico - Nisperillo
Kongo - Ancana, ntola
Lukumi - Iggi yita, tbi, taimnm, aganju
igbo
ACACIA / QUICKSTICK
(Gliricidia Sepium)
Other names:
Arada - Aweleti
Colombia - Matarratn
Costa Rica - Sangre de drago
Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Panama Madera negra
Cuba - Bien vestida, pin amoroso,
pin florido
Guatemala - Cansim
Kongo - Topi
Lukumi - Side, boni, ewe firinaya
Mexico - Madre de cacao, lengua de
perico
Nicaragua - Madriado
Panama - Bala, matarratn
Philippines Cacaute
U.S. Mother of Cacao
Description
Evergreen tree or shrub; wood heavy,
hard,
strong,
and
close-grained.
Frequently found in coastal hammocks.
The leaves are leathery, dull, and dark
green. They cluster at the ends of the
branches. Flowers are light yellow and
form drooping clusters. The brown, roughskinned fruit is globe shaped.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango and Ogun.
Rites of Palo
Description
Smooth, deciduous tree growing up to 30
ft. high. The leaves are oblong-ovate,
4
dense, brightly colored flower heads which

usually stand above the foliage.
For charms to ward off negativity, evil

spirits, and the evil eye.
USES
ACATE: Titonia
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orunmila.
Rites of Palo
ACEBO DE SIERRA / MOUNTAIN

HOLLY
(Ilex Montana)
Other names:
Cuba - Acebo de sierra, Acebo cubano
(Oriente)
Dominican Republic - Palo Blanco
Haiti - Houx
Kongo - Abayo
Lukumi - Sucui
Puerto Rico - Acebo de sierra
U.S. Cassine, Mountain winterberry
ACEITERO / CRABWOOD
(Gymnanthes lucida)
Other names:
Brazil Madera Verde
Cuba Aceitillo, Yaiti
Dominican Republic - Yaite
Kongo Inki
Lukumi Tuquio, Epairo
U.S. - Oysterwood
Description
Evergreen tree, growing up to 30 feet in
rich moist soils, cold swamps and on their
borders. Occasionally found on high
sandy banks of pine barren streams. It is
in leaf all year, in flower from May to June,
and the seeds ripen from October to
February.
Description
Indigenous tree. Generally columnar in
growth, to 20 feet in height, found in
coastal hammocks. The wood is yellow,
hard, compact and heavy; very fine grain;
can be beautifully polished.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Fevers, indigestion, liver ailments.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
Rites of Palo
For rituals and ceremonies
For purification baths.
Planted outside the

protection.
home
Medicinal
Muscle spasms and sprains, rheumatic
aches.
Religious/Magical:
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Babalu Aye and Elegba.
Rites of Palo
for
ACEITUNILLO / SLUGWOOD
(Hufelandia pendula)
ACEDERA: Raz Paciencia.
Other names:
Costa Rica Comenegro, Quizarra
Cuba - Cabeza de toro, curavara,
mastacila, mulatto
Kongo - Ancayo
Lukumi - Iggioro.
Panama Aguacatillo, Torpedo
ACEDIANA / CRESTED COCK'S COMB

(Celosia cristata)
Other names:
Cuba - Amaranto, bledo morisco, moco de
pavo.
U.S. - Red Velvet, Celosia Cockscomb,
Feather Amaranth
Description
Indigenous tree that reaches up to 80 ft.
high. Found in mountainous areas; the
trunk is erect and cylindrical; the leaves
are elliptical, alternate, grayish white
Description
Erect, branching plants with oval or lanceshaped, strongly veined leaves 2-6" long
and hundreds of tiny flowers packed in
5
Dalia Quiros-Moran
underneath, slightly aromatic when

crushed. The fruit is similar to an olive.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Dropsy. Hemorrhage. Stomach ailments.
Stomach parasites.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orunmila.
Rites of Palo
The root to make amulets to attract

success.
Religious/Magical:
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
Rites of Palo
ACHIOTE / ANNATO
(Sloanea curatellifolia)
ACELGA/COLLARD GREENS
(Brassica Olearacea)
Other names:
Argentina Achiote
Colombia - Achiote, onoto, bija
Costa Rica - Achiote
Cuba - Achiote, bija, achotillo, cacicuto
Ecuador - Achiote
Guatemala - Achiote, achote, bija
Kongo - Gu
Lukumi Bb Iy
Mexico - Achiotillo, arnato
Peru -Achiote
Venezuela - Onoto
Other Names:
U.S. - Kale, collards, flowering cabbage,
cole.
Description
A variety of biennials and perennials
plants usually grown as annuals for their
edible leaves. The leaves are dark green,
thick, fleshy and smooth; up to 2 ft. long
and 1.5 ft. wide. The upper leaves are
erect, while the lower leaves tend to sag
down.
Description
Shrub or small tree that grows 3 feet in
height, approximately 50 seeds grow
inside of prickly reddish-orange heart
shaped pods at the end of the branches.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun and Yemaya
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Ejionle, Irete
Ogunda.
Offerings for the Orisha and Egun.
USES
Medicinal
Fevers, heartburn, hepatitis, phlegm in
newborn babies, skin diseases, skin
infections, stomach distress, and vaginal
infections.
ACHICORIA / DWARF CANADIAN

HORSEWEED
(Leptilon pusillum)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
Rites of Palo
Other names:
Cuba Ancaraa
Kongo - Gu
Lukumi Amuyo
U.S. - Fleabane, hogweed
ACORO / SWEET FLAG

(Acorus calamus)
Description
A coarse weed with an erect stem with
branching clusters. Grows up to 5 ft. high.
The leaves are lanceolate. The tiny daisylike flowers give this tall plant a fuzzy
appearance; they are aromatic, blue, and
close at noon.
Other names:
Cuba - Acoro Aromatico
U.S. - Myrtle Grass, Myrtle Sedge, Sweet
Myrtle, Sweet Root, Sweet Rush, Sweet
Sedge
Description
Perennial growing up to one foot high in
moist soils and shallow water in ditches,
marshes, river edges and ponds. The
leaves are pointed; small greenish-yellow
flowers, borne in a fleshy spike about 3
inches long. It is in flower from May to
July, and the seeds ripen from July to
August. The long creeping rootstocks are
thick and fleshy, and have numerous
rootless. They have an agreeable
aromatic odor and a pungent, bitter taste.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshosi.
Rites of Palo
For rituals.
To dominate and confuse the enemy.
For love spells.

ADORMIDERA DE SABANA / WILD
TANTAN
(Desmanthus virgatus)
Other names:
Puerto Rico - Desmanto
U.S. Ground Tamarind
USES
Medicinal
Arthritis, bronchitis, convulsions, diarrhea,
digestive complaints, dyspepsia, epilepsy,
flatulence, gall bladder disorders, induce
abortion, neuralgia, rheumatic pains, skin
eruptions, sinusitis, stomach acidity,
toothaches.
Description
Perennial, herbaceous shrub; deep
rooted, stems erect growing up to 4 ft high
from a basal crown. The leaves are ovate,
the flowers white.
USES
Other
Insect repellent and insecticide.
Medicinal
Tooth aches.
ADORMIDERA / OPIUM POPPY

(Papaver somniferum)
AGALLA DE COSTA / WHITE INDIGO

BERRY
(Randia Aculeata)
Other names:
Cuba (Matanzas) -Vergonzosa
Lukumi Erunkumi
Other names:
Colombia Cruceto, Maz tostado
Cuba-Yamaguey de costa, pitajon bravo,
yamaguey de costa, Juan de la Cruz
Kongo Cl-kukumenga
Lukumi - Bien
Mexico - Espino cruz, crucete
Puerto Rico - Tintillo, escambrn, palo de
cotorra, cambrn
U.S. Cabainate, Christmas tree, box
brier, dogwood, inkberry
Description
Annual or biennial herb, 1 ft. high, stems
slightly branched, erect leaves large,
numerous, ovate to oblong, serrate;
flowers on long peduncles with nodding
buds that expand into erect flowers; white
to purplish, in varieties also pink, violet,
bluish, or red. Fruit a capsule, ovoid,
glabrous; seeds oily, white, dark gray to
black, or bluish. It is in flower from July to
August.
Description
Indigenous shrub. Grows in edges of
coastal hammocks, pine rock lands, and
rocky flats. The leaves are opposite,
elliptical, slender. Fruit round, black when
dry.
USES
Medicinal
Asthma, bladder, bruises, catarrh, cold,
colic, conjunctivitis, cough, diarrhea,
dysentery, enteritis, fever, flux, headache,
hypertension, hypochondria, hysteria,
inflammation,
insomnia,
leukorrhea,
malaria, mania, melancholy, nausea,
neuralgia, otitis, rheumatism, spasm,
sprain, stomachache, swelling, toothache,
tumor, ulcers, and warts.
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
USES
Medicinal
Diarrhea, hemorrhage, leucorrhoea, liver
ailments.
Medicinal
Conjunctivitis, fluid retention, gonorrhea,
hypertension, infections, paludism, and
swollen eyelids
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba.
Rites of Palo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
Correlating Odu: Osa Iwori.
Rites of Palo
AGAPANTO / AGAPANTHUS
(Agapanthus africanus)
AGRIMONIA /SMALL COASTAL

GERMANDER
(Teucrium cubense)
Other names:
Cuba - Agapanto, lirio, tuberosa azul.
Kongo - Nfei
Lukumi Ebbl
U.S. African Lily
Other names:
Cuba Yerba del Pasmo
Description
Evergreen bulb; grows to 2 feet high. It is
in leaf all year, in flower from July to
September. The flowers are blue, white
and lilac.
Description
Annual indigenous herb found in red soils
in most instances. Grows up to 2 ft. high.
Deep gray-green, dissected leaves with
small creamy flowers.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Boils. Tumors.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
Medicinal
Diarrhea, insect bites jaundice, kidney
ailments, liver ailments, skin problems,
slow healing wounds, sores, and ulcers.
Religious/Magical
To banish negative energies and spirits
Placed under the pillow will guard the
person's sleep.
AGRACEJO / WEST INDIAN BOXWOOD

(Gossypiospermun praecox)
Other names:
Cuba - Agracejo, Jia-Jia, Agracejo de
monte
Kongo - Doki
Lukumi Yn
Venezuela - Zapatero
AGUACATE / AVOCADO
(Persea gratissima)
Other names:
Brazil - Abacateiro
Colombia Cura
Ecuador, Peru Palta
Haiti - Zaboka, Zabelbok
Kongo - Akn
Lukumi Otobi
Mexico - Aguacatillo
U.S. Alligator Pear Tree.
Description
Indigenous tree. It is abundant in hills and
calcareous soils. The fruit is wrapped in a
golden wool or cotton. White-yellowish
wood; strong, and fine; compact grain.
Description
Fruit tree. Grows up to 30 feet. The leaves
are alternate and elliptical. White flowers.
Grows in any type of soil.
Description
Indigenous shrub. Grows in hills and
mountainous areas. Reaches up to 30 ft.
high. The leaves are extremely bitter in
taste, dark green, and pinnate, setting off
large, and pendant clusters of green fruit,
which ripen from red to black.
USES
Medicinal
Chest ailments, difficult menstruation,
dysentery, gas, gout, high blood pressure,
stomach ailments, liver ailments, lose
teeth.
USES
Medicinal
Burns, digestive and intestinal ailments,
fever, mucous, small skin injuries, skin
lesions, venereal diseases, and wounds.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Elegba, Yemaya and
Ogun.
Correlating Odu: Ofun Ojuani,
Rites of Palo
For ritual baths to ward off from

accidents, calamity, hostility and
negativity in general.
For amulets to attract good fortune.
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
To ward off illness.

AGUILEA / COLUMBINE
(Aquilegia vulgaris)
Description
Perennial plant. Grows up to 3 feet high.
Found in must shady positions, especially
on calcareous soils or fenland peat. It is in
flower from April to July, and the seeds
ripen from July to August; scented flowers;
generally blue, seldom white or pink.
Other uses
To erase facial lines.
Vermin.
AGUACATE MORADO / AVOCADO
USES
Description: See Avocado
Medicinal
Affections of the nervous system, gum
disease, jaundice, urinary track stones.
USES
Medicinal
Difficult menstruation, vaginal infections.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oya.
Used to make ritual omiero
AGUINALDO BLANCO/ CHRISTMAS

VINE
(Turbina Corymbosa)
Other Names:
Cuba
Aguinaldo
de
Pascuas,
Campanilla
blanca, Bejuco de gimir.
El Salvador - Campanilla
Kongo - Tanso
Lukumi Ewe bere, Oniyoko
Mexico Flor de Pascuas, Pascuas
AGUEDITA / BITTER BUSH

(Picramnia pentandra)
Other Names:
Brazil - Erva de Bugre
Cuba - Aguedita, quina del pais o de la
tierra.
Haiti - Bwa Madame, Vanyan-Gason,
Graines dores, Bwa Montagne, Bwa
Poison
Lukumi - Aiya
Panama - Cascara amarga
Puerto Rico Guarema, Hueso
Description
Climbing vine with heart shaped leaves.
Abundant white flowers; scented, shaped
like a bell. In flower all winter.
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
AITE / CARIBBEAN PRINCEWOOD

(Exostema caribaeum)
Medicinal
Difficult labor, palpitations, slow healing
wounds or ulcers, vaginal infection.
Other names:
Bahamas - Princewood.
Cuba - Yait, macagua de costa, falsa
quina, cera amarilla, cerillo.
Haiti - Kenkina
Mexico - Sabac-ch, falsa quina.
Puerto Rico - Cuero de sapo, lechesillo.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
Rites of Palo
To banish negative energies and

spirits.
In the mop water to cleanse and

purify the household.
Description
Indigenous tree. Reaches up to 30 ft. The
leaves are bright green; grayish branches.
Beautiful wood, yellow/purple color; hard,
compact. Deep root.
USES
AGUINALDO MORADO / BUSH

MORNING GLORY
(Batatas crassicaulis)
Medicinal
Anemia, Fevers, Diarrhea, Hemorrhoids,
Stomachaches, Intestinal parasites.
Other Names:
Brazil Algodao Bravo (Poisonous
variety)
Cuba-Campana gallega, campanola, vete
de
aqu, yerba de guanajay
El
SalvadorChilco,
campanola,
campanilla
Kongo - Nbuembo
Lukumi Ewe beberi, Obanieko
Mexico - Hiedra de la India, palo santo de
Castilla
AHORCA JIBARO: Aretillo

AJI AGUJETA (variety of "aji guaguao")
USES
Medicinal
Renal ailments, weak testicular tissues.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Osayin.
Correlating Odu: Okana Iwori
Description
A native, evergreen bush up to 15 feet
high that produces large, ovate, dull green
leaves and a profusion of lavender to pink
morning-glory flowers that are followed by
woolly seed capsules.
AJI CHILE / CAYENNE PEPPER

(Capsicum annuum)
Other names:
Kongo Kualay. Inkako, Kindungo
Lukumi Ata
U.S. Sweet pepper
Description
Evergreen perennial; grows up to 3 ft.
high. It is in leaf all year, in flower from
July to September, and the seeds ripen
from August to October.
USES
Medicinal
Chest colds, cuts, fevers, flu, lack of
urination, scabies, itching, wound.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orunmila, Elegba, Ogun and
Yewa.
Rites of Palo
USES
Medicinal
Asthma, debility in convalescence or old
age, digestive problems, fevers,
10
hemorrhoids,
unbroken
chilblains,
neuralgia, pleurisy, rheuma, seasickness,
sprains, typhoid fever, varicose veins.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya.
Rites of Palo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba
Rites of Palo
AJI GUAGUAO / LOCOTO

(Capsicum baccatum)
Other Names:
Colombia Aji Pajarito
Kongo Yumbe, Inkako Kindungo
Lukumi Ata
Mexico - Chile Serrano
Puerto Rico Aji picante, aji caballero
U.S. Cayenne Pepper, Cayenne. Wild
Pepper
AJI DE CHINA
(Salanum Havanense)
Other names:
Cuba - Tomatillo de la Habana.
Kongo Nkafo Kibulo
Lukumi Ata filani
Description
Indigenous shrub. Glossy leaves. Purple
flowers.
Description
Perennial; grows up to 9 ft high. It is in
flower from August to September. Grows
wild in mountain areas. Small leaves, the
fruit is the size of a grain of pepper, red or
yellow when ripe, very hot.
USES
Medicinal
Eye ailments, intestinal worms.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Ogun and Osayin.
Rites of Palo
For rituals, spells and amulets
Medicinal
Asthma cold, debility in convalescence or
old age, difficult menstruation, digestive
problems, fevers, hemorrhoids, neuralgia,
pleurisy, rheuma, sprains, varicose veins
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Ogun y Osayin.
Correlating Odu: Okana Eyioko
Rites of Palo
For rituals, ceremonies and amulets.
Reduced to powder for spells.
To make the enemy uneasy.
AJI DULCE / GREEN PEPPER

(Capsicum annuum)
Other Names:
Kongo Mowngo, Inkakdo Mungua
Lukumi - Ata Abalaiye
Description
Evergreen perennial; grows up to 3 feet
high. It is in leaf all year, in flower from
July to September, and the seeds ripen
Other uses
Insect repellent
AJO / GARLIC
(Allium sativum)
USES
Medicinal
Angina, asthma, cold, debility in
convalescence or old age, fever, digestive
problems,
hemorrhoids,
neuralgia,
pleurisy, rheuma, sore throats, sprains,
toothache, varicose veins, sea-sickness.
Other names:
Haiti - Lay
Kongo Kualango Dianputo, Niasa
Kumpiricunansieto
Lukumi Jokojo Eweco, Alu deso guere
11
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Rites of Palo
Taboo for the Nkisi.
Wards off negativity
Description
A bulb-forming herb of the Liliaceae (lily
family). The leaves are long, narrow and
flat like grass. The bulb consists of
numerous bulblets, known as cloves,
grouped together and enclosed within a
whitish skin, which holds them as in a sac.
The flowers are placed at the end of a
stalk rising erect from the bulb and are
whitish, grouped together in a globular
head. The plant grows to 2 feet.
ALACRANCILLO / INDIAN
HELIOTROPE
(Heliotropium indicum)
Other names:
Arada - Kloklotesu
Haiti - Crte Coq d'Inde, Verveine crte de
coq, Verveine--pian, Zb--pian, Zb-aMalin'n
Kongo Blwoto
Lukumi - Ewe Makogun
U.S. - Turnsole
USES
Medicinal
High blood pressure, infections, infectious
skin diseases, kidney ailment, leprosy
palpitation, phlegm, stomach parasites.
Description
Annual plant. Grows upright 2-3 feet in
height and is very leafy. The leaves are
dark green, alternate, entire, and hairy.
The stems are also hispid. Flowers are
blue or violet (rarely white).
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Oshe Meji, Oshe Ofun,
Ojuani Okana,
To protect from the evil eye.
To ward off illness, negative energies

and attract good fortune.
Burned with incense for purification
USES
Medicinal
Eczema,
hemorrhoids,
inflammation,
muscular pain, skin irritations, ulcers
AJONJOLI / SESAME SEED

(Sesamum indicum)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala and Elegba.
Correlating Odu: Okana Meji, Ojuani Irete,
Ika Iroso, and Otura Iwori.
Rites of Palo
Other names:
Arada Alpiri
Haiti - Wowoli
Kongo Ndeba, Guanillila
Lukumi Yanmoti, Amati
Description
Erect annual original from Africa, growing
up to 6 feet high. The leaves are oblong or
lanceolate and have white to light pink
flowers; the plant is covered with fine hair.
The fruit is a capsule often containing
more than 100 (hundred) seeds. The
seeds are small and flattened; contain a
high percentage of oil.
ALACRANCILLO ROSADO
Description
See Alacrancillo
USES
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
Medicinal
Anemia, blurred vision, constipation.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Babalu Aye.
Taboo in houses where this Orisha lives.
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Odi and Iroso
Ofun, Irete Ojuani.
12
Lukumi - Afoma, Of, Abaila, iggol

ikiynyo
U.S. - Peepul-tree, sacred ficus
ALAMANDA / GOLDEN TRUMPET

(Allamanda cathartica)
Other Names:
Cuba - Barbero loco, flor de barbero.
Description
Evergreen, sprawling shrub or woody
climber; leaves opposite or whorled,
simple, glossy, leathery; flowers tubular,
yellow, in clusters at ends of branches.
Description
Fast growing tree; usually begins as an air
plant that grows on trees but develops
roots to support its height of ninety plus
feet. It has purple figs and is different from
other species, because of its slender, long
leaf tip.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Constipation. Need to vomit.
Medicinal
Asthma, atrophy, cholera, dysentery,
fever, gonorrhea, gravel, inflamed feet,
otitis, pimples, rheumatism, skin disease,
smallpox, sore, toothache, weak nerves,
hair loss, vaginal infection, hemorrhoids.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango Odua and Egun.
This plant is essential for all initiation and
funeral rites or ceremonies.
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Osa, Iwori Ika,
Odi
Ika, Odi Otura, Iroso Osa, and Osa Iroso,
Ika Osa, Oshe Osa.
To pack amulets and Eshu/Elegba.
Removes impurities and negativities and
provides protection in the household.
To banish evil spirits.
To attract good fortune.
ALAMBRILLA
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya, Oshun e Inle.
It is not used for ritual omiero.
Rites of Palo
For spells and rituals.
ALAMBRILLO / ENGLISH HIBER
(Rajania cordata)
ALBAHACA / BASIL
(Ocimun basilicum)
Other names:
Cuba - ame volador, ame cimarrn
Description
A variety of long stemmed plants that have
the appearance of a wire.
USES
Other Names:
Arada Debesui
Brazil - Alfavaca
Haiti - Basilic, Framboisin, Common basil
Kongo - Mechuso
Lukumi - Efinkini, Ororo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship:
Belongs to Inle
To expel or make disappear.
Description
Annual herb up to 3 ft. Erect stems, round
below, squared above. Ovate or
lanceolate leaves, very odorous; flowers
grouped in spikes, with six flowers each.
White or pink corolla, stamens white.
ALAMO / BOTREE
(Ficus religiosa)
Other names:
Argentina - Higuera de las pagodas
Brazil - Figueira-da-india, figueira religiosa
Dominican Republic - Higuillo, Alamo
laurel
Kongo - Mnlofo
13
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
Description
Annual herb, up to 18 inches high; it
grows into a low bush. It has small leaves
with a strong smell. The flowers are small
and purple.
Medicinal
Bad breath, blisters, buccal aches or
pains, difficult digestion, difficult labor in
women gastric spasms, inappetence,
infections,
inflammations,
intestinal
parasites, intestinal unrest, need of
vomiting, slow production of milk in
nursing women, sore throat.
USES
Medicinal
Abdominal pains, fevers, high blood sugar
level, respiratory tract infections, snake
and insect bites.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun and Babalu Aye.
Okana, Ofun Iwori.
Used only for Babalu Aye ritual omiero.
Rites of Palo
To banish negative energies and

spirits from the household.
For cleansings and purification baths.
To attract good fortune and

prosperity.
For love and binding spells.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Osun and Odudua
In baths and household cleansings to

attract prosperity
Other
To kill fleas.
ALBAHACA DE HOJA ANCHA
(Ocimum basilicum, diforme)
Other names:
Cuba - Albahaca mondonguera
Lukumi Efinsho
Other - Hair loss. Insect repellent.
USES
ALBAHACA ANISADA / BASIL

(Ocimum basilicum)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba
Description
Small plant with white flowers. The leaves
have a distinctive scent of anise.
ALBAHACA DE CLAVO / WILD BASIL

(Ocimun gratissimum)
USES
Medicinal
Colic, flatulence, gas.
Other names:
Cuba Clavo canela, oregano cimarron
El Salvador - Albahaca monts
Guatemala - Albahaca silvestre
Haiti - Zb-a-klou
Mexico Albahaca de Monte
Puerto Rico - Albahaca cimarrona
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
Purification baths and cleansings.
To ward off against the evil eye.
For protection
Description
Wide leaf variety; scented like cloves. The
leaves are obovate, lanceolate.
ALBAHACA CIMARRONA/ BASIL

(Ocimun Micranthum)
Other names:
Cuba-Albahaca
Morada
de
clavo,
USES
Medicinal
Earaches, eyesores, difficult menstruation,
headaches, menstruation pains.
Albahaca
14
ALBAHACA MENUDA/ BASIL
ALBAHAQUILLA / THOROUGHWORT
(Eupatorium Villosum)
Other names:
Haiti - Basilic, Framboisin, Common basil
Lukumi - Efinkini
Other names:
Cuba - Filigrana, zanca de
trebolillo, travesera, abrecamino
grulla,
USES
Description
Shrub found in or around hammocks; the
leaves, when crushed have a mint-like
odor; the disk flowers are white or pinkish.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orunla e Inle
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Ofun.
Purification baths and cleansings.
USES
Medicinal
Contusions, fever, paludism.
ALBAHACA MONDONGUERA/ BASIL

(Ocimum basilicum, difforme)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Babalu Aye and Oshosi
Other names:
Cuba - Albahaca de hoja ancha
Lukumi - Ewe Abioyo
Description
Common variety.
ALCANFOR / CAMPHOR TREE

(Cinnamommum Camphora)
USES
Other names:
Brazil - Canforeiro
Haiti - Camphier
Kongo - Gougor
Lukumi Temi
U.S. - Japanese camphor tree
Medicinal
Skin rashes.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oge and Oshun
Description
Tree originally from Asia. Leaves are
similar to the cinnamon tree but smaller;
crushed in your hand expel a strong scent
of camphor.
ALBAHACA MORADA / HOLY BASIL

(Ocimun sanctum)
Other names:
Lukumi - Ororo
USES
Description
Indigenous variety.
Medicinal
Bruises, muscular
aches.
USES
Medicinal
Stomach ailments.
aches,
rheumatic
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango and Elegba.
Rites of Palo
To ward off from illness.
Works as an aphrodisiac.
The infusion of the young shoots for

cleansing baths and to ward off
illness.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun, Oshosi, Yemaya and
Babalu Aye.
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Ofun, Osa
Eyioko,
Ika Yeku.
15
Dalia Quiros-Moran
ALCOTAN / PAREIRA BRAVA

(Cissampelos pareira)
USES
Medicinal
Asthma, gout, hernias, rheuma, syphilis,
skin ulcers, wounds.
Other names:
Costa Rica - Bejuco azul, venadero
Cuba - Tomatillo de sabana, bejuco azul
El Salvador - Alcotn, bejuco de alcotn
Guatemala - Alcotn, cotn
Jamaica - Velvetleaf
Mexico - Oreja de ratn, pareira brava
Nicaragua - Pica mano
Puerto Rico - Bejuco de mono
Venezuela - Hierba ratn
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun, Oshun and Shango.
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Meji, and Iwori
Otrupon, Obara Okana, Iroso Osa, Ika,
Iroso,
Ika Osa, Otrupon Iwori, Otura Obara,
Otura
Okana, Irete Ogunda, Oshe Ojuani.
Not used for ritual omiero.
Used for funeral rites
Rites of Palo
For powerful spells.
In amulets to attract good fortune and
overcome legal issues.
Description
A woody vine, climbing a considerable
height over trees; the leaves are very
large; the flowers have four petals, the
berries, first scarlet, then black, are oval.
The root is cylindrical in varying lengths;
blackish brown, longitudinally furrowed,
transverse knotty ridges, it is hard, heavy,
tough, and when freshly cut has a waxy
luster. Stem deeply furrowed; color gray.
ALGODON / COTTON
(Gossypium arborum)
USES
Other names:
Arada - Zezzma
Cuba - Algodonero
Kongo - Ndambo
Lukumi Ewe Ou
Medicinal
Asthma, bladder complaints, boils, burns,
cold, cystitis, diarrhea, difficult labor fluid
retention, dropsy, dyspepsia, erysipelas,
fever,
hemorrhage,
hypertension,
jaundice, kidney ailments, kidney stones,
palpitation, phlegm, rheumatism skin
rashes, sores.
Description
Annual sub-shrub, up to 5 ft. tall; the
leaves are alternate; flowers large, white
or yellow; the fruit is a capsule, spherical,
smooth, light green, with few oil glands;
seeds ovoid, dark brown, about 36 per
fruit, bearing hairs of two kinds: long fibers
or lint, and short fibers or fuzz; welldeveloped taproot with numerous laterals.
ALEJO MACHO
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Babalu Aye
Rites of Palo
USES
Medicinal
Abdominal pain, burn and wound pain,
colds, delivery, diarrhea, dysentery,
earache,
fatigue,
headaches,
hemorrhoids,
laryngitis,
pulmonary
inflammations,
urinary
infection,
pregnancy tonic.
ALGARROBO / RAIN TREE

(Pithecellobium saman)
Other names:
Cuba - Algarrobo del pas.
Kongo - Flecheo
Lukumi Afoma
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala Oshanla and Odudua.
Correlating Odu: Osa Meji, Iwori Obara,
Odi Ogunda, Odi Ofun, Iroso Odi, Iroso
Description
Indigenous tree that grows up to 60 ft. in
fertile wet soils. The fruit is a large
seedpod, reaching up to six inches long.
The wood is reddish brown.
16
Ogunda, Iroso Ofun, Iroso Otura, Ojuani

Ejionle, Ojuani Iroso, Okana Ofun, Osa
Obara, Ika Oshe, Ika Ofun, Otura Ika.
To pack amulets and Eshu/Elegba
Rites of Palo
To ward off from death and

negativity.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba and Shango.
Correlating Odu: Ejionle Okana, Obara
Eyioko, Ofun Ojuani.
Rites of Palo
Used for rituals and ceremonies.
Burned with garlic cloves to banish
negative energies
For purification baths and cleansing of
persons, objects and the household.
ALMACIGO / GUMBO LIMBO

(Elaphrium Simaruba)
ALMENDRILLO / WEST INDIAN

CHERRY
(Prunus myrtifolia)
Other names:
CubaAzucarero, aceitero, almasigo
colorado
Colombia - Caratero
Costa Rica - Juocuavo, jiote
Guatemala - Jicote, chino, chinacahuite,
palo chino
Guiana - Indio desnudo, pellejo de indio
Haiti - Gomye-blan, Gommier barrire
Honduras Copn, Palo chino
Kongo Imbi Iye
Lukumi Igi Addana
Mexico Chaca piocha, palo mulato, palo
colorado, quiote, zongolica
Nicaragua - Jiocuavo, jiicuite
Puerto Rico - Almasigo encarnado
Venezuela Indio desnudo
U.S. Torchwood
Other names:
Brazil - Duraznero de monte, marmelo
bravo, marmelo do matto, virar
Cuba - Cuajani hembra, cuajincillo
Dominican Republic - Membrillito
Haiti - Amandier a petites feuilles
Jamaica - Wild cassada, cassad-wood,
ants
wood
U.S. - Laurel cherry
Venezuela - Almendro
Description
Slender tree 25 to 40 feet tall, gray,
roughened bark. When crushed, the dark
green, elliptic to oblong-ovate leaves give
off the aroma of almonds. Small, white
flowers appear in winter, followed by black
fruit in the summer.
Description
A smooth exfoliating barked tree, 60 feet
or more in height, with a trunk reaching a
size of two to three feet in diameter,
topped by massive branches spreading
out at wide angles and many stout round
branches, greenish the first year and
turning reddish brown the next year.
USES
Medicinal
Aches caused by broken bones, nervous
conditions.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala and Odudua.
USES
Medicinal
Arthritis/rheumatism, asthma, back pain,
blood tonic during pregnancy, bruises,
colds, colds in children, fever, flu,
diarrhea, diarrhea with blood, gonorrhea,
hoarse voice, intestinal ailments, kidney
ailments, leukorrhea, high blood pressure,
respiratory ailments, skin irritations, stings,
sore throat, syphilis, need to sweat,
stomach hemorrhage, snakebite, wounds,
wounds inflicted by rusty objects.
ALMENDRO / WEST INDIAN ALMOND

(Terminalia Catappa)
Other names:
Brazil Castaola, parasol
17
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Colombia - Kotamba
Cuba, El Salvador -Almendro de la India
Haiti- Zanman'n, Amandier, AmandierPays
Kongo - Tunso
Lukumi Abusi, Igi Ekusi, ig ur
Yucatan, Puerto Rico, Philippines Almendrn
USES
Medicinal
Irregular menstruation.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orunmila
Description
Beautiful exotic tree reaching considerable
heights, erect trunk, horizontal branches.
Wood is white, smooth bark, red inside;
large leaves, oval shaped, narrow at the
end. Flowers small, greenish white. The
fruit is similar to the common almond.
ALTEA / ROSE OF SHARON

(Hibiscus syriacus)
Other names:
Lukumi - Lukuari
Mexico - Flor de una hora
U.S. - Marshmallow
USES
Description
Upright deciduous shrub; grows up to 10 ft
high.
Distinctive
leaves,
arranged
alternately; three deep lobes, toothed;
bright or dark green. Flowers may be
single or double; white, blue, purple, or
pink; some have a pronounced crimson
base. The texture of shrub is coarse.
Medicinal
Constipation in newborn children; fatigue,
intestinal worms and parasites, vaginal
infections.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala, Orunla and Odudua.
Correlating Odu: Iroso Ogunda, Osa Iwori,
Irete Otrupon.
Rites of Palo
Used in purification baths, cleansing

of persons, objects and the
household.

prosperity.
USES
Medicinal
Hoarseness, intestinal afflictions, need to
perspire, sore throat, vaginal infection.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala and Orunmila
AMANSA GUAPO / BOXWOOD
(Schaefferia frutescens)
ALMENDRO DE LA INDIA: Almendro
Other names:
Haiti - Bois capable, Petit garcon
Lukumi Kunino
Puerto Rico - Cafeillo
U.S. Florida Boxwood, Yellow wood
ALMOREJO / PEARL MILLET

(Setaria glauca)
Other names:
Cuba - Rabito peludo, rabo de gato.
U.S: - American fountain grass, Yellow
bristle grass, Yellow foxtail, Yellow pigeon
grass
Description
Small to medium size shrub, found close
to the tidewater are on sandy soils and
hammocks. Smallish leaves are borne
close together; yellow green. The flowers
are small, greenish white. Fruits turn from
green to yellow, then bright red. The bark
is smooth gray or brown.
Description
Warm season grass; begins growing in
May. Heads will emerge in June and begin
flowering in July through September.
Abundant in disturbed sites, especially in
wetter cultivated soils and waste places.
18
USES
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba.
Correlating Odu: Iroso Ika, Osa Okana,
Otrupon She.
Rites of Palo
To appease, dominate, and bind.
Medicinal
Arthritis backache, back pain, blood
infections, body aches and pains,
bronchial asthma, colic, constipation,
convulsions, diarrhea, digestive disorders,
dysentery, impotence, kidney ailments,
leucorrhoea, malaria, muscle pains,
nervousness,
ovarian
hemorrhages,
ovarian problems, slow milk production in
lactating women, urinary tract ailments,
vaginal discharges, vaginal infections,
venereal
disease,
venereal
sores,
wounds.
AMAPOLA: Marpacfico.
AMARANTO: Acediana
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
Correlating Odu: Osa Meji.
Used for love spells, lovers who have

lost interest in their mates. To make
a loved one return.
AMBARINA / MUSK OKRA

(Hibiscus abelmoschus)
Other names:
Cuba - Abelmosco, viuda.
Mexico -Monacillo del ro.
ANACAGITA / PANAMA TREE

(Sterculia apetala)
Description
Cultivated plant. Beautiful flowers; pink,
purple or white.
Other names:
Cuba - Anacagita, anacahuita.
Colombia Camaruca, camajon duro
Mexico Anacahuita, bellota, castaas
USES
Medicinal
Chest colds and fever.
Description
Copious tree reaching up to 60 ft. high;
the trunk is thick; large heart shaped
leaves. Fruit similar to a peanut. Flowers
are slightly scented.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
Rites of Palo
For rituals and amulets
USES
AMOR SECO / STRONG BACK

(Meibomia barbata)
Medicinal
Common cold, flu, respiratory ailments.
Other names:
Lukumi Ewe ween
U.S. - Hard Man, Hard Stick
ANAMU / GUINEA HEN WEED

(Petiveria alliacea)
Other names:
Argentina Pip
Cuba - Namu
Guatemala - Apazote zorro, hispasina
Haiti - Fy Ave
Lukumi - Yena
Mexico Zorrillo, hierba de las gallinitas
Nicaragua Ipacina
Venezuela - Mapurite
Description
Indigenous
multi
branched
weedy
perennial herb 1.5 ft tall. Produces
numerous light purple flowers and small
green fruits/bean in 2" long pods. Found in
open forests, pastures, yards and
roadsides.
19
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Description
Herbaceous perennial; grows up to 3 ft.
tall. Often called "garlic weed" as the plant
and especially root have a strong garliclike odor.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
Rites of Palo
For purification baths
Placed under the pillow to ward off

bad dreams and nightmares.
USES
Medicinal
Arthritis, digestive ailments, dropsy, fever,
flatulence, headache, malaria, migraine
headaches, pain, poor memory, rheumatic
pain and other types of pain, rheumatism,
sinusitis, skin diseases, sluggish digestion,
to induce abortions, tooth pain.
ANON / SUGAR APPLE

(Annona squamosa)
Other names:
Haiti - Kashiman Kanl
Lukumi - Irbiri
Mexico - Ahate, anona blanca.
Philippines Ate
Puerto Rico - Chirimoya
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Children of Obatala and Yemaya should
not handle this herb.
Correlating Odu: Iwori Irete
Rites of Palo
For rituals
To ward off from evil spirits and

witchcraft:
Prepare an infusion of the leaves

outside the household and wash
down the front door with it.
For purification baths to ward off

witchcraft
Description
Small deciduous tree, reaches up to 20 ft.
The leaves are lanceolate to oblonglanceolate. The fruit, which ripens in the
spring, is ovoid. It is composed of loosely
cohering carpels, which are usually
covered with a white or bluish bloom. The
carpel separates readily when ripe,
exposing the cream colored flesh in which
are imbedded numerous small brown
glossy seeds.
USES
Medicinal
Nervousness,
stomach
ailments,
indigestion, urinary track infections, head
lice.
ANIS / ANISEED
(Pimpinella anisum)
Other names:
Lukumi - Ewe Ise
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala, Oshun and Ibeji.
Rites of Palo
Description
Annual that grows 1-2 feet high. It needs
120 days to produce fully ripened seed
head.
USES
ANTEOJO DE POETA: Bejuco

Borococo
Medicinal
Abdominal pains, asthma, belching,
bronchitis,
chronic
diarrhea,
cold
abdomen, colic in children, gallbladder
stones, gas, griping, hernia, indigestion,
intestinal colic and flatulence, insomnia,
intestinal ailments, irritable coughing,
nausea, nervousness, sluggish digestion,
slow milk production in nursing women,
tonic
during
menopause,
vomiting,
whooping cough.
20
AIL/WEST INDIAN INDIGO

(Indigofera suffructicosa)
USES
Medicinal
Gas, slow milk production in lactating
women, intestinal parasites and worms in
small children, tension, weak system,
stomach ailments, anemia, asthma,
dysentery, Diphnea, fatigue, nervousness,
rheumatism, conjunctivitis, tumor, sore.
Other names:
Cuba Ail cimarrn, Azul de hojas
Dominican Republic Azul, Azulejo
Kongo - Firio
Lukumi Ewe Olu, Yiniya
Mexico Jiquilete, ail montes
Description
Indigenous
legume
abundant
in
calcareous soils. Some species have been
cultivated for industrial use to extract the
ail or indigo coloring. A maceration and
fermentation process of the leaves
extracts this product.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Ofun.
Rites of Palo
Fan the walls with the branches to ward
off negative energies and evil spirits.
To annoy an adversary
USES
Medicinal
Internal tumors, epilepsy, gonorrhea.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya and Oshun
Correlating Odu: Ejionle Meji, Otura Niko,
Ofun Otrupo, Osa Ofun.
For cleansings. It has purifying

properties.
APIO BLANCO /GARDEN CELERY

(Apium graveolens)
Other names:
Haiti Celeri Des Jardins
U.S. Wild Celery
Description
Biennial plant up to 6 ft tall; grows in
cultivated beds.
APASOTE / MEXICAN TEA

(Chenopodium ambrosoides)
USES
Other names:
Cuba Biengranada
Haiti - Ambroisie du Mexique, Semen
Contra, Herbe--Vers, Th du Mexique
Lukumi - Oline
Mexico - Epazote
U.S. - American wormseed
Medicinal:
This herb should not be prescribed for
pregnant women
High blood pressure, indigestion, uterus
inflammation,
hysteria,
rheumatism,
kidney complaints
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Description
Annual/Perennial, growing up to 3 feet
high found in low sandy coastal areas and
red soils. Leaves are scented, oval,
serrated, long and narrow. Reddish trunk.
The scented flowers are green. It is in
flower from July to October, and the seeds
ripen from August to October.
Other
Insect repellent
21
Dalia Quiros-Moran
ARABO
(Erythroxylon havanense)
ARABO DE PIEDRA
(Erythroxylon minutifolium)
Other names:
Cuba - Arabo carbonero, arabo jiba, arabo
prieto, arabo real, jiba.
Lukumi - Benkeye
Other names:
Cuba - Cubanic, sibanic.
Kongo Fiko
Lukumi - Bunda
Description
Small tree found in low coastal areas.
Grows up to 24 ft. The leaves are obovate,
slender, light green. The flowers are white.
Fruits are consumed by wild pigeons and
other birds.
Description
Shrub or small tree growing up to 30 ft.;
leaves elliptical, obovate. The fruit is
orange.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun.
Rites of Palo
For rituals
To attract stability or success.
USES
Medicinal
Cold, flu, fever, sore throat, muscular
aches.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orunla and Oshun.
Rites of Palo
Burned in incense to purify and protect.
ARARA / SPINY BUCIDA

(Bucida angustifolia)
Other names:
Cuba -Jcaro, arar de hojas angostas,
chicharrn de montes, jcaro de playa
Kongo Groo
Lukumi Amukan, Biose
Mexico -Puk-t
Puerto Rico - Ucar, bucaro
U.S. - Gregory wood, black olive
ARABO COLORADO
(Erythroxylon confusum)
Description
Indigenous tree; grows to 50 ft. found in
coastal areas or riverbanks. It is in flower
from March to May and fruits from June to
August. Wood fairly heavy. Dry and
coarse
bark
with
long
uneven
indentations, approximately two lines
wide.
Description
Shrub reaching up to 24 ft high. Found in
arid coastal areas. Extended branches
with 2-3 terminal spines. The leaves are
slender at the base. Blooms in spring.
Green/white flowers.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha worship
Belongs to Shango, Orunmila
Rites of Palo
The leaves pulverized, if scattered in

a household, will create turmoil
among the family
Used to agitate quarrels.
USES
Medicinal
Seasickness.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Babalu Aye and Orunmila
Rites of Palo
22
ARBICUAJER / ARBICUA
Description
Perennial shrub. Grows up to 3 ft high.
The trunk is ligneous and dark color, while
the ends of the branches are greenish.
Leaves oblong-lanceolate. The showy
flowers are white or yellow with red
tonalities.
Other names:
Kongo Mbentun
Lukumi - Afilayo
Description
Indigenous tree. Reaches great heights,
abundant in Cuba. Excellent wood.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Scabies, skin infections.
Medicinal
Earaches.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala, Orishaoko and Yewa
Rites of Palo
The root is used for binding spells.

To attract and bind persons who
have grown apart for any reason.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Odudua
Rites of Palo
For spells and rituals
ARBOL BONITO
(Pithecellobium glaucum)
ARBOL DE LA CERA / SOUTHERN

BAYBERRY
(Myrica cerifera)
Other names:
Cuba - Palo bonito, Abey
Dominican Republic - Caracoli
Kongo - Bukua
Lukumi Kukunduku, Iki, Oddara Yeye
Other names:
Cuba - Arbol de sebo, arraigan.
Jamaica - Waxberry, wax wood.
Kongo - Masere
Lukumi Aki Yembu
Puerto Rico - Arrayan.
U.S. - Candleberry, southern myrtle, wax
myrtle.
Description
Indigenous tree of copious foliage found in
riverbanks. Reaches up to 30 ft. Flowers
in racemes, white. Its shade keeps the soil
fresh and fertile. Lateral roots. The fruit is
obovate, brown.
Description
Deciduous shrub reaching up to 35 ft.
Grayish bark, waxy branches, and dense,
narrow, delicately toothed leaves dotted
with resin glands, which produce a
fragrant aroma when crushed. Yellow
flowers appear in spring and produce
nutlike fruits thickly covered with wax.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun and Oya
Rites of Palo
To attract success in
gambling and love.
business,
USES
Medicinal
This plant should not be used during
pregnancy.
Alimentary tract ailments, asthma and
chills, bacterial infections, bleeding gums,
boils, bowel inflammation, bronchitis,
bruises, chronic gastritis, chronic sore,
ARBOL DE LA BIBIJAGUA / ANGELS

TROMPETS
(Datura suaveolens)
Other names:
Cuba - Campanilla, floripundio blanco
Haiti - Datira
Kongo Musi Nguengua, Nkunia
Lukumi Agogo, Balanke
23
Dalia Quiros-Moran
circulatory ailments, cholera, colds,

diarrhea, dysentery, epilepsy, excessive
menstrual bleeding, fever, flu, gum
diseases,
hard
to
heal
ulcers,
hemorrhoids, indigestion, jaundice, lack of
perspiration,
laryngitis,
leukorrhea,
scrofula, skin rashes and itches, sinusitis,
sore throat, typhoid, uterine discharge,
varicose veins, wounds.
Kongo - Gwangango
Lukumi Maeri
Mexico- Arbol del cuerno, cuernos del
toro, cornerzuelo
Nicaragua - Cornezuelo
U. S. Wattle
Description
Indigenous shrub with large spines
arranged in pairs, simulating small horns.
Wood is hard and compact.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
Rites of Palo
Other
Tooth powder.
To neutralize
perspiration
odors
USES
Medicinal
Insect bites, impotence.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun, Oshun, Odudua,
Obatala
Rites of Palo
For spells.
To make amulets for men who wish to
regain their vitality.
caused by foot
ARBOL DE LA VIDA / ARBOVITAE

(Thuja orientalis)
Other names:
Cuba - Guiqui, Tuya.
Dominican Republic - Pinillo
El Salvador - Cipres Romano
Guatemala - Incienso
Puerto Rico - Tuya
ARBOL DEL PAN / BREADFRUIT

(Artocarpus altilis)
Other names:
Brazil - Fruta-po
Cuba - Fruta de pan
Haiti - Arbre pain, L'arbre--pain, Fruit-pain
U.S. - Breadnut
Description
Evergreen tree growing to 50 ft. Grows in
either dry or moist soil and can tolerate
draught.
Description
Stately erect tree, 40 ft. tall, with a wide
and spreading crown. The trunk, leaves,
and fruit exude a milky sap when injured.
The mature fruit is round or ovoid; 5 to 8
inches long by 4 to 6 inches in diameter,
and may weigh from 2 to 10 pounds. The
yellowish-green rind is divided into a
series of low projections that may bear
short spines in some varieties.
USES
Medicinal
Arthritic pain, asthma, bacterial dysentery,
bronchitis, burns, constipation in the
elderly, cough, excessive menstruation,
hemorrhage, insomnia, mumps, nervous
disorders, palpitations, parasitic skin
infections,
premature
baldness,
rheumatism, scalds, skin diseases.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala and Odudua
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Odua, Obatala
Correlating Odu: Ejionle Obara, Ogunda
Otrupo, and Oshe Okana.
For rituals
ARBOL DEL CUERNO / BULLHORN

ACACIA
(Acacia cornigera)
Other names:
Cuba - Tarrillo, cuernecillo
El Salvador - Iscanal blanco
24
ARBOL DEL SEBO / CHINESE TALLOW

TREE
(Stillingia sebifera)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orunmila, Aganju
Rites of Palo
In amulets to attract confidence and

assertiveness.
Other names:
Cuba - Arbol de la cera
Kongo - Kousu
Lukumi Sainde
U.S. - Popcorn tree
ARETILLO
(Savia sessiliflora)
Description
Deciduous tree growing to 30 ft. Leaves
are ovate to 3" becoming yellow red in
autumn. It is in flower from January to
February, produces a 4" flower spike. The
seed ripens in November.
Other names:
Cuba - Ahorca jbaro, amansa guapo,
carbonero de costa, guizacillo, hueso.
Description
Small indigenous tree; the wood is hard,
good grain.
USES
Medicinal
Boils, constipation, kidney ailments,
urinary track ailments, skin ulcers
USES
Medicinal
Gum disease.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Rites of Palo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba
ARNICA
(Arnica Montana)
Other
The wax extracted from the seed changes
gray hair to black.
Other names:
U.S. Leopard's bane
ARCERDIANA / SILVER COCK'S COMB

(Celosia Cristata)
Description
Perennial plant that grows to a height of 1
to 2 ft. Generally found in mountainous
parts. The plant is rather hairy plant, with a
dark or blackish root. The stem is simple,
pubescent, rough, obscurely angled,
striated. The leaves are entire and
opposite. In flower from June to August.
The flowers are large, orange-yellow; in
erect or drooping heads.
Other names:
Cuba - Arcerdiana, Amaranto, bledo
morisco, moco de pavo
Kongo - Sigua
Lukumi Biole
U.S. Crested cockscomb
Description
Cultivated for its flowers in the shape of a
cockscomb. Blooms are violet, yellow or
salmon color.
USES
Medicinal
In large doses, arnica causes heat in the
throat,
nausea,
vomiting,
purging,
spasmodic contractions of the limbs,
difficulty of respiration, and sometimes
inflammation of the alimentary canal,
coma, and death.
USES
Medicinal
Can be toxic if taken in large quantities.
Bloodshot eyes, bloody stool, blurriness of
vision, diarrhea, cataracts, hemorrhoid
bleeding,
hypertension,
intestinal
parasites, leukorrhea, uterine bleeding
25
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Abdominal
pain,
contusions,
inflammations, skin cuts and lacerations
Description
Plant reaching 18-20' high. Wood is hard,
compact, and heavy. The core is light red.
AROMA AMARILLA U OLOROSA /

SWEET ACACIA
(Acacia Farnesiana)
USES
Medicinal
Nasal congestion, nasal discharge.
Other names:
Argentina, Uruguay Espinillo
Cuba - Aroma
Guatemala, Salvador - Espino blanco
Haiti - Gren'n l'Eglise, Lyan'n Rglisse,
Lyan'n L'glise, Rglisse, Graine-Rglisse
Kongo - Sunsumie
Lukumi Erite, Ereen
Mexico, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Peru,
Philippines, Colombia - Aromo, Aroma
Nicaragua Cachito de aroma
Venezuela - Cuji
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
Correlating Odu: Osa Okana, Ika Ofun,
Otrupon Oshe, Irete Otura.
AROMO UA DE GATO/CAT'S CLAW
BLAKBEAD
(Pithecellobium unguis-cacti)
Other names:
Cuba - Arua gato, manca montero.
Kongo - Bericolae
Lukumi - Madde
U.S. Bread and Cheese, Blackbead
Description
A deciduous shrub growing to 12 ft. in dry
sandy soils in pinelands, hammocks and
disturbed areas. It is in flower from
February to March. Scented flowers.
Description
Thorny stemmed shrub. The bark is
purplish brown, with white specks. Wood
yellow. Small flowers. The fruit is a
seedpod, containing black seeds.
USES
Medicinal
Gangrenous
tissue,
palpitation, skin infection
nervousness,
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun, Elegba, Babalu Aye
Correlating Odu: Otura Meji
Rites of Palo
To cause chaos
To harass and produce constant

anxiety in an adversary
Medicinal
Dysentery, intermittent fevers,
ailments, kidney stones, sores
kidney
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Ogun
Rites of Palo
For spells.
To
break
up
relationships,
and
partnerships.
Causes chaos and discord among

family members and couples.
AROMA BLANCA / WHITE LEAD TREE

(Leucaena glauca)
Other names:
Bahamas - Jumby-bean
Cuba Soplillo
Dominican Republic - Granalino
Lukumi - Riani
Mexico - Guacis
Puerto Rico - Hediondilla
U.S. Tantan, Wild Tamarind
ARRAIGAN: Arbol de la Cera
26
ARRIERO / MOROTOTO
(Didymopanax morototoni)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
Prepared as an offering to Obatala.
For cleansings of the household to

banish negative energies and evil
spells.

prosperity
Other names:
Argentina - Ambayguazu
Brazil - Mandioqueira
Colombia - Yarumero
Cuba - Yagruma macho, Badana,
Cordoban, Padero, Papayn
Kongo - Kuakari
Lukumi - Pikoto
Mexico - Chancaro blanco
Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic Yagrumo macho
Venezuela - Tinajero
ARRURUZ / ARROWROOT
(Maranta arundinacea)
Other names:
Cuba - Curcuma, leren.
Description
Tall basally swollen tree reaching a height
of 100 ft and more; trunk diameters to 30
inches. Wood is pale brown throughout.
Abundant in calcareous hills.
Description
Plant with perennial fibrous rhizome,
producing several fleshy, scaly, pendulous
tubers from its crown. The stems are thin,
hairy, reaching up to 2 or 3 feet high. The
leaves are alternate, with long, leafy, hairy
sheaths, hairy underneath, and pale-green
on both sides. The flowers are white.
Globular fruit the size of a small currant.
USES
Medicinal
Tension, hysteria
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
For purification baths to banish

negative energies and hysteria.
USES
Medicinal
Wounds, scorpion and black spider bites,
gangrene, vegetable poisoning.
ARROZ / RICE
(Oriza sativa)
ARTEMISA, ALTAMISA / ANNUAL

RAGWEED
(Ambrosia artemisiifolia)
Other names:
Kongo - Loso
Lukumi Euo, Sincofa, Irasi
Other names:
Arada Bamare
Cuba - Palma de alcanfor, Palma sagu y
sagu
Kongo - Dioke
Lukumi Liniddi
U.S. - Roman wormwood
Description
Erect annual grass, to 3 feet tall; leafblades long, flat, many long, ascending
branches; kernel free-threshing, oblong,
flattened on the sides, straw colored or
yellow.
Description
Common plant with ridged stem. Grows 4
or 5 ft. tall. Lives in moist soils. It can grow
in semi-shade or no shade.
USES
Medicinal
Abdominal ailments, arthritis, bowels,
burns, diarrhea, dysentery, dyspepsia,
erysipelas, fever, flux, heart condition,
inflammations,
jaundice,
nausea,
ophthalmia, paralysis, piles, poor appetite,
psoriasis, skin ailments, sores, stomach
ailments, and swellings.
27
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Puerto Rico - Astrmeda

Salvador, Nicaragua - Jpiter
USES
Medicinal
Insect bites, rheumatic joints, various
skins complaints, fevers, pneumonia,
nausea, intestinal cramps, diarrhea,
intestinal
cramps,
diarrhea,
mucus
discharges, menstrual disorders, stroke,
hemorrhoids, measles, colic, pimples,
boils, mumps, sprains
Description
Ornamental shrub originally from Asia.
The bark is mottled and smooth. With age,
the gray bark exfoliates to reveal a
reddish-brown color underneath. The
leaves are deciduous, oval, and smooth.
They are usually arranged alternately. The
individual flowers are ruffled, delicate, and
crinkly to the touch; they last from 65-120
days. The fruit is oval and brown or black
in color, appearing after the flowers begin
to drop. When mature, the dry capsules
split and the seeds are released.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Osayin (Obatala or Babalu
Aye)
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Okana, and
Obara Osa.
Rites of Palo
For cleansings and purification baths.
USES
Medicinal
Colds,
constipation,
fever,
urinary
ailments, weak system, sores, boils,
wounds.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orunmila
Used for purification baths, to banish

negative energies.
The roots are used to make amulets.
ARTEMISILLA / SANTAMARIA
FEVERFEW
(Parthenium hysterophorus)
Other names:
CubaEscoba
amarga,
confitillo,
altamisilla
Haiti - Absent bata, Balai Amer, Absinthe
marron, Zb-a-Pian
Kongo - Luanga
Lukumi Ewe Irii
ATEJE / RED MANJACK

(Cordia Collococca)
Other names:
Colombia, Costa Rica - Nigito, buriogre,
mueco.
Dominican Republic - Palo de mueco
blanco.
El
SalvadorCuajatinta,
zompopo,
manuno, manone.
Haiti - Trois pieds.
Jamaica - Cherry, wild cherry.
Kongo - Langwe
Lukumi Lacheo
Puerto Rico -Sarguaso prieto, palo de
mueca.
Venezuela - Alatrique, caujaro.
Description
See Escoba Amarga
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
Rites of Palo
For purification and cleansing.
To attract happiness, prosperity and

success of personal endeavors.
Description
Indigenous tree reaching up to 16 ft in all
sorts of soils, mainly calcareous. Leaves
similar to the coffee plant. Blooms in
February. Produces small red fruits in
racemes, from April through May.
ASTRONOMIA / CRAPE MYRTLE

(Lagerstroemia indica)
Other names:
Cuba - Jpiter
Kongo - Duanje
Lukumi - Take
Mexico - Astrnimica, atmosfrica
28
USES
Rites of Palo
Medicinal
Dropsy, fever.
ATEJE HEMBRA / RED MANJACK

(Cordia Valenzuela)
Religious/Magical
Orisha worship
Belongs to Osayin, Odudua, Oya, and
Elegba
Correlating Odu: Oshe Okana, Okana
Osa, Otura Ojuani.
Rites of Palo
Other names:
Cuba -Vomitel amarillo, ateje comn o
colorado
Dominican Republic - Mueco, palo de
mueco
Ell Salvador - Manuno, manone
Haiti - Trois pieds
Jamaica - Wild cherry
Kongo - Chunue
Lukumi - Bembere
Puerto Rico - Cerezo, palo de mueca
Venezuela - Alatrique, caujaro
ATEJE AMARILLO / WHITE MANJACK

(Cordia Alba)
Other names:
Colombia - Uvita mocosa, cujaro, gomo
blanco.
Costa Rica - Tigilote.
Cuba - Varia blanca, ateje blanco, atejo
amarillo
El Salvador-Tigilote, tiguilote negro,
cebito.
Haiti - Bois chique.
Honduras - Chachalaco.
Jamaica - Dope-cherry, duppy cherry.
Lukumi - Mbota
Mexico - Zazamil, sasanil, gualbere,
chirimo
Nicaragua -Tigilote.
Panama - Uvillo, uvero, goma.
Puerto Rico - Capa, capa blanca.
Venezuela- Caujaro, cariaco, tarare
amarillo, tarare blanco, pardillo blanco,
baboso, candilero, grimanso, flor de
angel.
Description
Indigenous tree growing up to 30 ft. The
leaves are elliptical, glossy, and narrow
towards the base. Extended branches.
Makes excellent wood; yellow, compact
and hard. The root grows very deep.
Produces red fruits.
USES
Medicinal
Skin blemishes.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Osayin
Rites of Palo Works with the Nkisi.
ATEJE HERMOSO / SALMWOOD
(Cordia gerascanthus)
Description
Fast growing tree, reaching up to 60 ft.
Excellent wood, heavy, hard compact;
color light yellow with streaks. Yellow
flowers, fruit the size and shape of a white
grape, bland taste.
Other names:
Argentina - Loro negro
Brazil - Louro pardo
Colombia, Venezuela Canalete
Cuba - Baria
Kongo - Billaca
Lukumi Malau, Iredan
Mexico - Siricote, Bocote, Cupane, Amapa
asta
USES
Medicinal
Muscular cramps, dropsy, tumors, boils,
chest ailments, tumors, chest ailments.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Osayin, Oshun, Babalu Aye.
29
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Description
Small to large tree reaching up to 100 ft.
high. Valued for its wood; tobacco colored
to reddish brown, with irregular dark brown
or blackish streaks and variegations.
Description
Erect scrub, 5 to 6 ft. wide. Wood soft,
white. Leaves alternate, pale green.
Flowers green, five petals, unscented. The
fruit is a round capsule divided into three
compartments, each holding one white
almond, with taste somewhat similar to the
exotic almond.
USES
Medicinal
Skin blemishes
Superficial scars.
caused
by
burns.
USES
Medicinal
Renal ailments.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Osayin
Rites of Palo
Religious/Magical
Orisha worship
Belongs to Osayin, Oba, Oshun
Rites of Palo
For rituals and amulets.
ATEJE MACHO / MUCILAGE MANJACK

(Cordia Sulcata)
AYUA / WHITE PRICKLY ASH

(Zanthoxylum martinicense)
Other names:
Cuba - Tabaco.
Dominican Republic Majagua de Indio
Kongo - Pangua
Lukumi Sayi
U.S. - Manjack, sticking berry, Jack tree
Other names:
Cuba - Aya macho, aya amarilla, ayuda
Kongo Lunga Kuma
Lukumi - Elegun
U.S. - Toothache tree
Description
Indigenous tree found in mountain ranges
and hills. The wood is hard, ash color with
white streaks. Deep roots. It is in bloom in
February.
Description
Tree found in rocky calcareous areas.
Grows up to 60 ft. high with thick conical
spines. Easily identified for its thorny trunk
and leaves.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Skin blemishes.
Medicinal
Wounds,
liver
ailments,
infectious
diseases,
syphilis,
rheumatism,
toothaches, chest ailments.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Babalu aye
Rites of Palo
Religious/Magical
Orisha worship
Belongs to Ogun
Rites of Palo
For protection amulets. The thorns

protect against the evil eye.
AVELLANO DE COSTA
(Omphalea trichotoma )
Other names:
Cuba Avellano de America
Lukumi Muyale, Rueri
30
AZAFRAN / SAFFLOWER
(Carthamus tinctorius)
USES
Medicinal
Hepatic ailments, gonorrhea.
Other names:
Haiti - Safran
Kongo Mayanda
Lukumi Ewe pupa
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ika Meji.
Description
Annual shrub reaching up to 3 ft. The
leaves are ovate. Flowers are orange
which contain colorant substances. It is in
leaf from May to October, in flower from
August to October, and the seed ripen
from September to October.
AZUCENA/TUBEROSE
(Polianthes tuberosa)
Other names:
Cuba Nardo, tuberosa
Kongo Touje
Lukumi Ododo fun
USES
Description
Perennial garden plant growing to 2 ft.
Long, bright green leaves clustered at the
base; smaller, clasping leaves along the
stem; fragrant, waxy white flowers.
Medicinal
Rheuma,
menstrual
pains,
uterus
ailments, measles, fever, eruptive skin
complaints,
bruises,
sprains,
skin
inflammations, wounds, and sores.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
To condiment food offerings for the
Orishas
Medicinal
Cardiac conditions.
Religious/Magical:
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala, Odudua
Correlating Odu: Ika Ofun.
Used in purification baths.
To attract peace and prosperity.
Placed in any room heightens the

energy
within
and
promotes
tranquility.
AZUCARERO: Palo cochino

AZUCARITO / BREAD-AND-CHEESE
(Paullinia pinnata)
Other names:
British Antilles - Bread-and-cheese
Cuba Azucarillo, Bejuco de vieja, Bejuco
matancero, Bejuco de Indio (Santiago de
Cuba)
El Salvador Chilmecate, Nistamil
Mexico - Barbasco, bejuquillo
Puerto Rico -Bejuco de costilla, Bejuco de
paloma
U.S. Supple jack
Description
Stout and woody vine that forms mats in
forest openings and ascends rocks and
trees by means of forked tendrils to
access full sunlight. It may reach up to 30
ft long. The leaves are serrated, glossy
above; independent, small white flowers;
red or maroon fruit.
31
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Ofun
B
BADANA: Arriero
Rites of Palo
Weakens, causes lapses.
BAGA / POND APPLE

(Annona glabra)
Other names:
Brazil - Araticum do brejo.
Colombia - Mayos
Costa Rica - Guanbana silvestre
Cuba - Baga, Palo bobo, guanbana
cimarrona, cimarrona.
Dominican Republic Guanbano de
corcho, mammon de perro, anon de ro,
baga, guanbana cimarrona
Ecuador - Anona del campo
Guatemala, Honduras - Anoncillo
Haiti - Carossol marrn, mammier
Kongo - Chona
Mexico -Corcho, arbol de corcho, palo de
corcho.
Panama - Ann de puerco
Puerto Rico - Cayur, corazn cimarrn,
guanbano cimarrn, ann.
U.S.- Alligator apple, custard apple
Venezuela - Ann liso, chirimoya
cimarrona, guanbano cimarrn,
guanbano bobo.
BALSAMINA / GARDEN BALSAM

(Impatiens balsamina)
Other names:
Cuba - Madama
Haiti - balsamine des jardins, impatience,
bel-zanmy
U.S. - Rose balsam, spotted snap weed
Description
A colorful annual that thrives in partial
shade or full sun. Its frilly flowers are
either semi-double or fully double, looking
rather like camellia blossoms. The blooms
are white, cream, pink, rose, red or purple.
Most plants grow to 2 feet tall.
USES
Medicinal
Bacterial infections, circulatory ailments,
fluid retention, eye ailments, lumbago,
neuralgia, sores, wounds.
Description
Indigenous tree reaching heights up to 35
ft. Grows near fresh water ponds and
streams and in swampy hammocks; with a
much swelled, or buttressed, base and
short, clear trunk. The branches are stout
and irregular-shaped. The leaves are
leathery, bright green above, elliptical or
oval. The flowers open from a threeangled bud on a stout flower stem, with six
petals in two series of three each, of a
pale or yellowish white, the three outer
ones marked with a bright red spot near
the base
BALSAMO / SATIN WOOD

(Zanthoxylum pistacifolium)
Other names:
Arada - Xuntitina
Cuba - Vencedor, Palo vencedor
Description
A deciduous shrub growing to 12 ft. Found
on upland rocky hillsides and on moist
low-lying sites, in open woods, on bluffs or
in thickets. It is in flower from May to June,
and the seeds ripen from September to
October. The scented flowers are purple.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Abdominal complaints, burns, coughing
associated with TB, infantile diarrhea,
jaundice,
pulmonary
ailments,
rheumatism, intestinal parasites and
worms.
Medicinal
Ague, arthritis, digestive problems,
dysentery, fevers, heart and kidney
troubles, leg ulcers, poor circulation,
rheumatism, skin irritation, toothache.
32
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Rites of Palo
For purification baths and cleansings

of persons and the household.
To banish negativity and evil spirits.

prosperity.
In amulets to overcome difficult

situations and for protection.
BALSAMO MAZU
Other names:
Cuba -Az, blsamo azul, balsamo
tranquilo
Description
Indigenous tree that is tapped like rubber
trees to collect their resin-like saps known
as "balsamo tranquilo". Its wood is hard,
compact and heavy.
USES
BALSAMO DE GUATEMALA / BALSAM

OF TOLU
(Myroxylon balsamum)
Medicinal
Earaches.
spasms.
Other names:
Cuba -Blsamo de Tol.
U.S. Balsam of Peru
Muscle
BALSAMO TRANQUILO: Balsamo Maz

BAMBU: Caa Brava
BARDANA / GREAT BURDUCK
(Arctium lappa)
Other names:
Mexico Lampazo
U.S. - Bardane
Description
A biennial plant found along fences, walls,
and roadsides, in waste places, and
around populated areas. The root is long,
fleshy, gray-brown outside, and whitish
inside. In its second year, the plant grows
a furrowed, reddish, pithy stem with woolly
branches. The leaves are green and hairy
on top and downy gray beneath. The
purple flowers appear in from July to
September. The seeds ripen from
September to October.
USES
Medicinal
Abscesses, asthma, bed sores, bronchitis,
catarrh, colds, diaper rash, diarrhea,
dysentery,
granulations,
headache,
laryngitis, leukorrhea, lung ailments,
rheumatism, ringworm, scabies, sores,
sprains, tuberculosis, ulcerations, venereal
diseases, wounds.
USES
Other
The powdered bark as an underarm
deodorant.
TOLU:
aches.
Religious/Magical:
Promotes tranquility
Description
A large and beautiful tree with a valuable
wood like mahogany, and a straight
smooth trunk; the last is coarse gray,
compact, heavy granulated and a pale
straw color, containing a resin which
changes from citron to dark brown; smell
and taste balsamic and aromatic. Leaves
alternately, leaflets two pairs mostly
opposite, ovate, lanceolate with the end
blunt emarginated; every part of the tree
including the leaves abounds in a resinous
juice.
BALSAMO DE
Guatemala
Muscular
Blsamo
Medicinal
Bites, boils, blood ailments, bruises,
burns, eczema, herpes, high blood sugar
levels, rashes and other skin problems,
ringworm, sciatica, skin diseases, sores,
throat and other infections, toxins in the
blood, ulcers.
de
33
Dalia Quiros-Moran
BARIA / CORDIA
(Cordia gerascanthus)
Description
Annual herb. The leaves are opposite,
very soft, and coarsely toothed with round
teeth. Flowers occur in globes, slightly
prickly to touch with thin leaves
immediately undeneath. Flowers are
orange and tubular.Stem is very rigid and
square, plant is taprooted. Common in
fallow fields.
Other names:
Colombia - Canalete
Cuba -Capa roja, Vara, Vara blanca,
Vara amarilla, Vara carbonera, vara
prieta
El Salvador - Laurel blanco.
Nicaragua - Laurel macho.
Per - Arbol del ajo.
Puerto Rico - Capa prieta.
U.S. Salm Wood
Venezuela - Canjaro, pardillo.
USES
Medicinal
High blood pressure, herpes, indigestion,
intermittent abscess, paludism, colitis,
anemia
Description
Tree that reaches up to 100 ft. The trunk is
erect, flexible; valued for its reddish brown
wood, with irregular dark brown or black
streaks and variegations. The leaves are
oval, rough, pointed at the end.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orunla. Used for Ifa rituals.
Correlating Odu: Iroso Okana
Rites of Palo
USES
Medicinal
Colds, epilepsy, hoarseness, insomnia,
nervousness, skin ailments, sore throat,
toxins in the blood.
BAYATE / WHITE ROSEWOOD

(Linociera domingensis)
Other names:
Cuba - Bayito, dominguito, guaney, caney,
pico de gallo, hueso.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Oya, Elegba
Correlating Odu: Ika Ogbe,
Rites of Palo
For purification baths and cleansing

To overcome difficult situations and

to dominate.
To attract good luck.
Description
Tree found in hills and calcareous soils.
The leaves are long, lanceolate. Fruits are
oval, smaller than an olive. The wood has
streaks, very hard.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
To expel unwanted persons from the
household.
BASTON DE SAN FRANCISCO/ LION'S

EAR
(Leonitis nepetifolia)
BAYONETA / SPANISH BAYONET

(Yucca Gloriosa)
Other names:
Brazil Cordao de Frade
Colombia Cordon de Fraile
Cuba - Cola de len, molinillo.
Kongo - Tngo
Lukumi Morob
Puerto Rico Boton de cadeta, Hisopo,
Molinillo, Vara de San Jose
U.S. Christmas candlestick
Other names:
Bahamas - Sword Plant
Cuba - Bayoneta, cucaracha, espino,
maguey silvestre, pion de pual.
Haiti - Bayonette, pinguin
Jamaica - Spanish dagger
34
Lukumi - Peregun
U.S. - Spanish bayonet, aloe yucca
Description
Trifoliate vine. The leaves are alternate,
ovate at the base. The flowers are
yellow/green; they have a peculiar,
unpleasant scent.
Description
An evergreen shrub growing to 5 ft. It is in
flower from July to September. Grows in
sand dunes and the borders of beaches of
the seacoast. The flowers are white.
USES
Medicinal
Alcoholism
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
Correlating Odu: Ofun Ogbe,
Ogunda, Ofun Meji
Essential for initiation rituals
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya
Rites of Palo
Ofun
BEJUCO ANGARILLA / FOWLS FOOT

(Serjania diversifolia)
BAYUA: Aya
Other names:
Cuba - Bejuco colorado.
Kongo - Seikon
Lukumi Obolo, Yenkemi
BEJUCO DE ALCANFOR /
DUTCHMAN'S PIPE
(Aristolochia trilobata)
Other names:
Haiti - Trf carayib
Kongo Embi
Lukumi Ewe tuko
Description
Vine, also known as "Bejuco Colorado".
Grows in low areas. It is in bloom in
November. The seeds mature in February.
Description
Flowering vine. The leaves are threelobed, glossy. The flowers have a bend in
them shaped like an old pipe; pale green,
striped tan with a long tail. They emit an
unpleasant and the stems have a foul
smell when crushed.
USES
Medicinal
Hemorrhoids.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Rites of Palo
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oya
Rites of Palo
For cleansings to banish negativity.
BEJUCO BATALLA
Other names:
Kongo - Wangara
USES
BEJUCO AMARGO / BIRTHWORT

(Aristolochia trilobata)
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
Essential for the Nkisi.
Other names:
Brazil Angelico, Contra Herva Bastarda,
Jaruiba
Lukumi Iye Koro
Puerto Rico Buche de Pavos, Bejuco de
Santiago
Venezuela Bejuco de Estrella
35
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Lukumi Uuare, Kawon.

Nicaragua - Hoja-chige
BEJUCO BARACOA: Bejuco Vergajo
Description
Woody vine with papery reddish bark, the
leaves are rough, white flowers, four to six
fruit per bud, green color, containing black
seed.
BEJUCO BOROCOCO / WHITE

THUMBERGIA
(Thumbergia fragans)
Other names:
Cuba - Anteojo de poeta, jazmn del
Vedado.
Kongo - Waniko
Lukumi - Yila
U.S. - sweet clock-vine, white lady
USES
Medicinal
Chest ailments.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Oshun
Rites of Palo
Description
Slender-stemmed climbing plant. Leaves
margined, lower ones more or less lobed
but upper ones rounded towards the base
or having two small teeth only. Corolla
lobes obliquely aligned to the tube, about
2 inches across the white, scentless flower
that opens in the evening making a
detonation noise.
BEJUCO CASTAO: Bejuco Guarana

BEJUCO COLORADO
USES
Other names:
Cuba - Bejuco carey, bejuco de cerca,
bejuco de corrales, bejuco de vara, bejuco
guara, Bejuco guarana y gauvillo.
Lukumi - Obolo
Medicinal
Headaches. Insomnia.
Religious / Magical:
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun
Rites of Palo
Description
Reddish vine; reaches up to half an inch
thick,
smooth,
furrowed
branches.
Flexible. Found in black soils. It is in flower
from April through May.
BEJUCO CARABALI
USES
Other names:
Cuba - Vencebatalla.
USES
Medicinal
Chest
ailments,
diseases.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Rites of Palo
To overcome; to succeed in any endeavor.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Orishaoko, Elegba
Rites of Palo
leprosy,
venereal
BEJUCO DE CASTAA: Bejuco de Cruz
BEJUCO CAREY
(Tetracera volubilis)
Other names:
Colombia - Bejuco chiparron, bejuco tome
Costa Rica - Raspa, raspa-guacales
Cuba - Bejuco Guar
Kongo - Ndukora
36
BEJUCO DE CONCHITA / BUTTERFLY

PEA
(Clitoria ternatea)
BEJUCO DE CRUZ / HIPPOCRATEA

(Hippocratea volubilis)
Other names:
Cuba - Bejuco de castaa, bejuco de
vieja.
Haiti - Lyan'n Z'Amande, Bois Z'Amande,
Lyan'n Rouge, Lyan'n Crabe
Kongo - Npoti
Lukumi Anmele, Saraundere
U.S. Medicine vine
Other names:
Cuba - Conchita, conchita azul, deleite,
divierte sabanern, papito de la reina.
U.S. Pigeon Wings
Description
Tropical annual or biennial slender twiner
reaching 15 ft, with pinnate leaves, and
pea-like solitary, showy flowers with
broad, fan-like lip narrowing to the base,
bright blue with beautiful markings in the
throat, blooming all summer.
Description
An indigenous climbing vine found in
mountainous areas, and calcareous soils.
Flowers small, green, in large terminal
panicles. Fruit green, divided in three
compartments filled with flat, winged
brown seeds.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Abdominal discomforts.
Medicinal
Chest ailments. Snake bites.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun, Orishaoko
Correlating Odu: Odu Ejionle Meji.
Rites of Palo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala, Odudua
Rites of Palo
For ritual baths and amulets to attract
health and prosperity.
BEJUCO DE CORRALES / FOWLS

FOOT
BEJUCO DE CUBA / CHEWSTICK

(Gouania polygama)
Other names:
Cuba - Bejuco Colorado
Kongo - Twonfi
Lukumi - Waniri
Other names:
Cuba - Bejuco de dientes,
leatero,
bejuco de indio, jaboncillo.
Kongo - Nyouyole
Lukumi - Idalla
Panama Jaboncillo
Description
Vine. The glossy leaves are obovate,
dentate. Flowers arranged in racemes,
the fruit have a fuzzy cover on the upper
part. The seeds mature in February. It is
in bloom from October through December.
bejuco
Description
Vine. The leaves are olive-green above,
yellow green underneath. The sepals pale
tannish green.
USES
Medicinal
Gum disease
USES
Medicinal
Skin infections
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya
Rites of Palo
37
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Osayin
Rites of Palo
USES
BEJUCO DE DIENTES: Bejuco de Cuba
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orunmila
Rites of Palo
Medicinal
Gonorrhea, eye irritation and swelling,
gum disease
BEJUCO DE FIDEOS / DODDER

(Cuscuta americana)
Other names:
Cuba - Bejuco de fideo, fideillo.
Haiti - Lamitie
Kongo - Nyouyole
Lukumi - Uti
BEJUCO
Lombriz
DE
LOMBRICES:
Bejuco
BEJUCO DE JAIBA
Description
Indigenous vine. Grows in low-lying areas,
and riversides, aerial roots.
Description
Parasitary plants found in dry soils and
hills, with leaves reduced to scales. The
stems are thin, cylindrical and golden
yellow; they look like noodles, crawling
over plants to absorb their juice, covering
them almost completely.
USES
Medicinal
Hemorrhages
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya.
Rites of Palo
Medicinal:
Jaundice. Liver ailments. Blood toxins.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orunmila
Palo Rites
BEJUCO DE PURGACION / CLIMBING

WARTCLUB
(Commicarpus scandens)
BEJUCO DE GIRIMU: Aguinaldo Blanco

BEJUCO DE INDIAS: Bejuco Leatero
Other names:
Lukumi Oguetiyo Aro
U.S. Bush spiderling
BEJUCO DE INDIO / SPANISH

ARBORVINE
(Merremia tuberosa)
Description
Sub shrub; common on rocky slopes and
washes; flowers pale green, March &
November.
Other names:
Cuba - Indio trepador.
Lukumi - Chinyo
U.S. Moon Vine
USES
Medicinal
Gonorrhea. Venereal diseases.
Description
Perennial vine can smother tall forest
canopies. The large leaves are dark green
on the upper side and paler green on the
underside; divided in 5 to 7 narrow lobes.
The flowers are a bright yellow, funnelformed. The globular fruit turns into a
woody pod.
38
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Rites of Palo
Description
Herbaceous vine, often blanketing nearby
vegetation. Slender cylindrical stems;
leaves simple, opposite, ovate, bright
green on top, pale green underneath;
flowers small, white.
BEJUCO DE VARA: Bejuco Colorado

BEJUCO DE VIEJA: Bejuco de Cruz
USES
Medicinal
Asthma, bile, bloody stools, cholera, fever,
flu, insect bites, malaria, rheumatism,
scorpion bite, sore, spasm, stomach,
syphilis, tetanus.
BEJUCO DE LA VIRGEN
(Cassia Chryssocarpa)
Other names:
Lukumi Alai
Kongo Nfita Ngana Maria
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun and Osayin
Rites of Palo
To counteract ingested witchcraft.
Description
Native vine. The flowers are yellow. The
fruit is gold.
USES
BEJUCO GUARANA
(Davilla rugosa)
Medicinal
Ear ailments and infections.
Other names:
Cuba (Camaguey) -Bejuco carey, bejuco
colorado, bejuco de cerca, bejuco
guarana,
guaranillo.
Kongo - Disoto
Lukumi Kensa
Mexico - Bejuco de agua
Nicaragua - Hojachige
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
Rites of Palo
BEJUCO GARAON
USES
Description
Reddish vine; reaches up to half an inch
thick,
smooth,
furrowed
branches.
Flexible. Found in black soils. It is in flower
from April through May.
Medicinal
Impotence.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Obara, Irete
Obara.
Rites of Palo
USES
Medicinal
Hoarseness. Skin rashes.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orishaoko, Erinle
Rites of Palo
BEJUCO GUACO / GUACO

(Mikania guaco)
Other names:
Brazil - Cip-Cabeludo
Haiti - Lyan'n Koulv, Lyan'n serpent,
Lyan'n Franoise
U.S. - Hempvine
39
Dalia Quiros-Moran
BEJUCO GUAURO
(Gonolobus pubescens)
BEJUCO JIMAGUA / GRAPE VINE

(Vitis caribaea)
Other names:
Cuba - Parra cimarrona.
Lukumi Ewe lopamo, Ajara melli
Other names:
Cuba - Huevo de toro.
Kongo - Tabi
Lukumi Egua
Description
A deciduous, native vine; woody stem that
climbs by tendrils into and over the tops of
nearby trees and other vegetation. The
leaves are alternate and variable in form,
generally heart-shaped, three-lobed or
unlobed, with or without serrations at
edges. The flowers are small, greenish,
five-petaled. Clusters of purple to black
edible fruits that appear from late summer
to fall.
USES
Medicinal
Hemorrhoids. Need of vomiting. Tetanus.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Oke
Rites of Palo
USES
BEJUCO INDIO: Bejuco de Cuba
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba
Rites of Palo
BEJUCO JABONCILLO/ WHITE ROOT

(Guania Lupoloides)
Other names:
Colombia Rabo de Mono
BEJUCO LECHERO / TORREY'S

TIEVINE
(Ipomoea Ramoni)
USES
Medicinal
Dropsy, stomach ailments.
Other names:
Cuba - Aguinaldo marrullero, marrullero.
BEJUCO JAIBA
Description
Profusely flowering vine. The leaves are
small, simple, heart shaped; the flowers
bell shaped, pink, lavender or lilac outside,
dark purple inside. Fruit a capsule with
four brown or black seeds, smooth and
glossy.
Description
Indigenous vine. Slender stems.
USES
Medicinal
Gonorrhea.
USES
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
Medicinal
Infected wounds. Insect bites.
BEJUCO JICOTEA
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orishaoko
Correlating Odu: Ika Ogunda
Rites of Palo
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Rites of Palo
40
BEJUCO LOMBRICES / HEART LEAF

(Philodendron scandens)
BEJUCO LEATERO / CHEWSTICK

(Gouania poligama)
Other names:
Cuba - Bejuco de lombrices.
Other names:
Cuba - Bejuco de dientes, bejuco indio,
bejuco jaboncillo.
Colombia Bejuco de Reina
Dominican Republic - Bejuco de Indio
Haiti - Lyan'n savon
Kongo - Etun
Nicaragua - Rabo de mono
U.S. Soapstick
Description
Vine growing half an inch thick; leaves are
long and thin; the root winds its way up to
the top of the trees.
USES
Medicinal
Intestinal worms and parasites
Description
Vine found in all soils, the stem grows up
to two inches thick. The leaves are
alternate; small flowers. It is in flower
throughout the spring. The fruit is elliptical,
brown when mature.
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
BEJUCO LOMBRICERO
(Philodendron lacerum)
USES
Other names:
Cuba - Macusey macho.
Medicinal
Hemorrhage, burns, gum disease, dropsy,
gonorrhea
Description
Vine with large platter-sized foliage that is
slightly palmately lobed.
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
USES
Medicinal
Arthritis, contusion, sore, toothache
BEJUCO LOMBRIZ
(Philodendron Wrigtii)
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
Other names:
Kongo Sekuse
Lukumi - Omisu
BEJUCO LONGANIZA
(Serjania oblongata)
Description
Indigenous climbing vine found in
mountainous areas and calcareous hills.
Grows up to 30 ft. The stems are thin, the
leaves ovate.
USES
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
USES
Medicinal
Intestinal worms and jaundice
BEJUCO
lombricero.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Babalu Aye, Elegba
Rites of Palo
For rituals, ceremonies and amulets
MACUSEY:
BEJUCO MADRINA
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Obara Iroso
41
Bejuco
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Rites of Palo
BEJUCO PENDOLA
(Securidaca volubilis)
Other names:
Kongo Areto
Lukumi - Leremi
BEJUCO MARRULLERO / COW PEAS

(Vigna vexillata)
Other names:
Cuba - Caracolillo de cerca.
Lukumi Floido
U.S. Wild Mung, wild cowpeas
USES
Medicinal
Liver ailments.
Description
Long trailing vines with narrow pointed
bean-like leaves, pods and seeds
resemble mung beans, and the roots are
nodulated.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun, Oba
Rites of Palo
To bind a couple that is still in love,

but has parted due to a spell.
USES
Medicinal
Sores.
BEJUCO PERDIZ / CATCLAW VINE

(Macfadyena unguis-cacti)
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
Other names:
Cuba - Bejuco
perdicero.
Kongo - Mansagro
Lukumi Duela
U.S. - Bignonia
BEJUCO ORIENTE
USES
perdiz,
bejuco
Description
Lianas up to 50 ft. or more long, often
rooting at the nodes, glabrous or nearly
so. Leaves drying dark green to nearly
black,
leaflets
narrowly
ovate
to
lanceolate, tendril deciduous, 3-forked,
each fork bearing a small horny hook.
Flowers usually in axillary clusters of 1-3;
calyx cup-like, glabrous. Capsules drying
blackish, linear, flattened, tapering at both
ends.
Medicinal
Rheumatism.
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
BEJUCO PARRA: Bejuco Jimagua
BEJUCO PELADOR
(Serjania glabra)
USES
Other names:
Kongo Buaa, Buare
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orishaoko, Oshosi
Rites of Palo
To separate and create chaos among

friends.
USES
Medicinal
Skin infections, ulcers and wounds.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Babalu Aye,
Obatala
Rites of Palo
de
Orishaoko,
42
BEJUCO PRIETO
(Serjania subdentata)
BEJUCO SAN PEDRO

(Stigmaphillon lineare)
Other names:
Cuba - Alambrillo, bejuco becerra, bejuco
casero, bejuco colorado, bejuco lechero,
Bejuco vergajo blanco, curamaguey prieto
y tripa de pollo.
Kongo - Brose
Lukumi Ruye
Other names:
Cuba San Pedro de flor amarilla
Kongo Bejuco Zarabanda Yayanke
Lukumi - Jisollo
Description
Woody climbing vine, very common in lowlying areas and arid soils. The leaves are
opposite, ovate, rounded at the base,
smooth above, pubescent underneath.
The flowers are axillary, bright yellow.
Description
A woody, climbing vine with long leaves,
white flowers and inedible dark, grape
sized, berries. It resembles a ruffled
ribbon, winding its way up to the top of the
tree. The stem is deeply furrowed, color
gray, and covered with patches of lichen.
The odor of the vine is slightly aromatic.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun, Elegba
To cause chaos and turmoil.
For protection.
USES
Medicinal
Boils, conjunctivitis, buccal ailments and
pain, difficult menstruation, minor kidney
problems, pre- and postnatal pain,
rheumatism,
testicle
inflammation,
unbalanced female hormones, uterine
hemorrhages.
BEJUCO TORTUGA / BAUHINIA

(Bauhinia heterophyllia)
Other names:
Cuba - Bejuco de tortuga.
Mexico - Timbe, hierba de la vaca,
papalocahuite
U.S. Monkey ladder
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Eshu
Correlating Odu: Ofun Ogunda.
Rites of Palo For rituals and amulets
To banish evil spirits
Description
Vigorous woody vine found in sandy soils.
The mature stem is flat, very tortuous. The
scented flowers are pale yellow, with
purple specks inside. The fruit is green,
with purple specks in the center.
BEJUCO SABANERO
(Stigmaphyllon sagraeanum)
USES
Other names:
Cuba (Camaguey) - Bejuco San Pedro.
Lukumi - Ogumona
USES
Medicinal
Boils, bronchitis, colds, coughs, diarrhea,
dysentery, dropsy, liver ailments, malaria,
ulcers, wounds
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Eshu, Ogun, Orishaoko
Rites of Palo
To cause turmoil.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Yemaya
Correlated Odu: Ika Okana
Rites of Palo
43
Dalia Quiros-Moran
BEJUCO UBI-hoja ancha / POSSUM

GRAPE
(Cissus sicyoides)
Description
Climbing vine, leaves are large, heart
shaped, glossy, and simple. Grows in all
soils.
Other names:
Colombia - Bejuco chirriador, bejuco
castro
Costa Rica - Iasu, bejuco iasu
Cuba - Bejuco ubi
Dominican Republic - Caro, bejuco de
caro
Guatemala,
Honduras
Bejuco
comemano
Haiti -Lyan'n mol, Lyan'n Brulante, Lyan'n
Corde, Lyan'n -Chasseur
Mexico - Vid silvestre, tripas de juda
Nicaragua - Uvilla
Puerto Rico - Caro, bejuco de caro
U.S. Season Vine, Princess vine
USES
Medicinal
Colds, ear infections, excess wax in the
ears, influenza, inflammation, rheumatism
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya
Rites of Palo
BEJUCO UBI MACHO / SORREL VINE
(Cissus trifoliata)
Description
Vine found in calcareous hills, the leaves
are small, simple, and glossy. Flowers
green, disk and stamens are yellow.
Other names:
Cuba - Parrita cimarrona, Ubi colorado.
Lukumi Ewele keri
Mexico - Hierba del buey, Bolontobi
Nicaragua Uvilla
U.S. Marine Vine
USES
Medicinal
Back pain, boils, bruises, gangrene,
hemorrhoids, influenza, itching, mental
disorders, phlegm, rheumatism, skin sores
including sunburn, swollen feet, and ulcers
Description
Evergreen vine with thick, light green
leaves that are deeply notched.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya
Rites of Palo
Medicinal
Skin, sore, tumor
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya
Rites of Palo
BEJUCO UBI- de cinco hojas / SEASON

VINE
(Cissus sicyoides)
Other names:
Colombia - Bejuco castro, bejuco
chirriador
Costa Rica - Iasu, bejuco iasu
Cuba - Bejuco Ubi
Guatemala,
Honduras
Bejuco
comemano
Lukumi Ewele Keri
Puerto Rico, Santo Domingo - Bejuco de
caro, caro
Mexico - Tripa de vaca, vid silvestre,
tumbavaqueros, hierba del buey.
Nicaragua - Uvilla
U.S. Possum Grape, Princess vine
BEJUCO
Carabal
VENCEBATALLA:
Bejuco
BEJUCO VERGAJO/ DRAGON WITHE

(Heteropterys laurifolia)
Other names:
Costa Rica - Coral
Cuba - Vergajo de toro, mata negro,
bejuco
baracoa, Juan caliente.
Kongo - Nontori
44
Lukumi Failla, Atire

Mexico - Pinsanillo, escobillo, bejuco de
caballo.
Panama - Cointura
Puerto Rico - Bejuco de buey
BEJUCO ZARZUELA / LANCELEAF

GREENBRIER
(Smilax domigensis)
Other names:
Cuba - Bejuco zarzaparrilla, raz de china.
Description
Vine reaching up to half and inch thick.
The leaves are deep green, opposite,
lanceolate. Flowers in racemes, yellow.
Blooms in spring. Produces green fruits.
Deep roots.
Description
Perennial vine. A long, tuberous rootstock
producing a vine which trails on the
ground and climbs by means of tendrils
growing in pairs from the petioles of the
alternate, orbicular to ovate, evergreen
leaves. The small, greenish flowers grow
in axillary umbels.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orishaoko
Rites of Palo
For binding spells
USES
Medicinal
Catarrh, colds, fevers, flatulence, gout,
rheumatism, ringworm, skin problems,
scrofula.
BEJUCO VERRACO
(Elsota virgata)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Osayin
It has negative properties. Can harm the
expecting mother and the unborn child.
Other names:
Cuba (Camagey) Perlilla
Dominican Republic Maravedi
Kongo Fumasi, Kuenye
Lukumi Arebo
BELLADONA / CATHEDRAL BELLS

(Kalanchoe aegyptiaca)
Description
Indigenous woody vine with violet flowers.
Other names:
Cuba - Peregrina.
Haiti - Lougarou
USES
Description
Herb. The flowers are pale green. In
bloom from February through March.
Found occasionally in shady places.
Medicinal
Asthma, bronchitis, constipation, cough,
delayed
menstruation,
dementia,
depression, flatulence, impotence, kidney
troubles, laryngitis, menstrual cramps,
nervousness, rheumatism, skin sores,
snakebite, swollen legs/feet, venereal
disease.
USES
Medicinal
Bronchitis, eye irritation, fever, flatulence,
headache, heartburn, internal fevers,
intestinal upset, sores, ulcers, urinary tract
inflammation
Religious/Magical:
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Ogunda
Rites of Palo
To banish the evil eye and breaking

spells.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Odudua, Obatala, Yemaya
Correlating Odu: Osa Iwori.
45
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
BEN: Paraso Francs
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya
Taboo for Oshun Ololodi
Taboo in Odu Odi Meji
To attract good fortune
BERGAJO
(Rourea glabra)
Other names:
Cuba (Camagey) - Bejuco baracoa, mata
negro, Juan caliente.
Description
Climbing vine found in calcareous soils,
near low coastal areas. The leaves are
composite, lustrous; yellow fruit.
BETEL / BETEL PEPPER

(Piper betle)
Other names:
U.S. Betel Leaf
USES
Description
An evergreen vine, it climbs to a height of
12 ft. The stem is slender, twining and
rounded; the leaves are oval-acuminate,
green and smooth; the flowers are green,
occurring in spikes; the fruit are fleshy, red
berries.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Odua
BERENJENA / EGG PLANT
(Solanum melongena)
Other names:
Yoruba - Igba Aja
USES
Medicinal
Gum disease, burn pain, dandruff
Description
An annual herb or a perennial shrub with
alternate, ovate or elliptical purplish-green
leaves. Abundantly found in plains. The
flowers are violet. Berries purple, white or
black. It is in bloom February through
March. Fruits April through May.
BIBONA
(Gilibertia arborea)
Other names:
Costa Rica - Cacho de venado.
Cuba - Palo santo, Ramon de vaca,
vbona, ahorca jbaro, palo cachimba.
Kongo - Kinkua
Mexico - Palo santo, palo de danta, mano
de danta, mano de len.
Panama - Vaquero.
Puerto Rico - Vvona, Palo cachumba,
Mueca.
USES
Medicinal
Fever, Pyorrhea
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oya
Correlating Odu: Irete Otrupon
Description
Indigenous tree with trunk reaching up to
18 ft. high, and six inches in diameter.
Found in hills, near forests and riverbanks,
black and brown soils. The wood is white;
leaves are alternate, glossy, elliptical and
lanceolate.
BERRO / WATERCRESS
(Nasturtium oficinale)
Other names:
Haiti - Kreson-Frans
Lukumi Iguere, yeye peregun
Description
Aquatic perennial herb. The plant is
characterized by long, floating and
ascending stems, green, fleshy leaflets,
and small white flowers.
46
USES
U.S. Green Heart
Medicinal
Fever
Description
Commonly diffuse shrub. The upper sides
of the leaves are dark green and shiny
and the undersides are covered with rusty
down. The younger parts of the tree have
numerous conspicuous rusty-read hairs.
The star-shaped flowers are yellow and
the ripe fruits are purple to black. They
sometimes open explosively and scatter
three black seeds.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Eshu
Rites of Palo
BIENGRANADA: Apasote
BIEN VESTIDA: Acacia
USES
BIJA / ARNOTTO TREE

(Bixa orellana)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Eshu
Rites of Palo
Causes insanity
Other names:
Brazil - Urucum
Colombia - Achote, Onoto
Cuba - Bija, cacicuto
Guatemala Achote
Haiti Woucou
Lukumi - Oen
Venezuela Onoto
BLEDO BLANCO / SLENDER

AMARANTH
(Amaranthus viridis)
Description
Profusely fruiting shrub or small tree;
grows 15 to 30 ft. in height. Approximately
50 seeds grow inside of prickly reddishorange heart shaped pods at the end of
the branches. The trees are literally
covered by these brightly colored pods
and one small Bixa tree can produce up to
600 pounds of seeds. The seeds are
covered with a reddish aril, which is the
source of orange-yellow dye.
Other names:
Cuba - Bledo, espinaca.
Lukumi Ewe tete
Puerto Rico Blero, Bledo manso
U.S. - Green calalu
Description
Annual weed of waste grounds and
roadsides.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Boils, dysentery and inflammation
Medicinal
Fevers, hepatitis, liver disease, phlegm in
newborn babies, skin problems.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
One of the five essential plants to make
ritual omiero.
Belongs to Obatala and Elegba
Correlating Odu: Ejionle Ogunda, Okana
Ika, Osa Okana, Irete Untelu, Irete Iwori.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba and Shango.
Other
Food coloring
BIJAGUA O BIJAGUARA / WILD
COFFEE
(Colubrina, colubrina)
Other names:
Cuba - Bijaguara, birijagua.
47
Dalia Quiros-Moran
For cleansings and purification of

objects, household and persons.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Used for Babalu Aye rituals.
BLEDO CARBONERO / POKE

(Phytolacca icosandra)
BLEDO FRANCES / LOVE LIES

BLEEDING
(Amaranthus caudatus)
Other names:
Brazil Tinturera
Colombia Grava
Cuba Terba carmin
Puerto Rico Juan de Vargas
U.S. -Pokeweed, red weed, red ink plant,
garget, pigeon berry, American
nightshade, red ink berries.
Other Names:
Lukumi - Gbegbe
U.S - Amaranth, Grain Amaranth, Red
Cockscomb, Tassel flower.
Description
Annual growing to 6 ft. It is in flower from
July to September and the seeds ripen
from August to September. The red
flowers are individually small but are borne
in long, narrow, finger-like clusters. Some
of the clusters will branch and droop
providing a cascade of dark red.
Description
Herb reaching up to 3 ft. high. Grows in
calcareous, coastal areas. The leaves are
long, lanceolate. Flowers are erect
growing in a raceme. Fruit is red, and then
turns black when it matures.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Catarrh, laryngitis, mumps, scabies and
other pests, swollen glands, syphilis and
malignant tumors, rheumatism, tonsillitis,
upper respiratory tract infections.
Medicinal
Scrophulous sores.
BLEDO MORISCO: Acediana
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
To pack amulets and Eshu
BOJ DE CUBA
(Picardaea cubense)
Other names:
Cuba - Boje
BLEDO ESPINOSO / SPINY AMARANTH

(Amaranthus spinosus)
Description
Shrub found in calcareous soils. The
leaves are opposite, short petiolate; the
blades are obovate. The flowers are cup
shaped, white to cream-white inside, and
red, violet to purple outside Fruit a
capsule, thinly woody.
Other names:
Haiti-Zepina--Shyen,Zepina-Koshon,
Zepina-Pikan, Zepina-Rouj, Zepina-Kabrit
U.S. - Wild Spinache, Amaranth, Pigweed
Description
Annual plant growing to 1 ft. Found in
roadsides, waste places and fields.
USES
Medicinal
Paludism,
liver
ailments,
toothaches, intestinal worms.
USES
Medicinal
Broken bones, colic, diarrhea, eczema,
excessive
menstruation,
gonorrhea,
internal bleeding, nosebleeds, snake
bites,
ulcerated
mouths,
vaginal
discharges, and wounds.
48
jaundice,
BONIATO / SWEET POTATOE

(Ipomoea batatas)
BORRAJA / BORAGE
(Borrago officinalis)
Other names:
Brazil - Batata da ilha
Mexico - Camote
Dominican Republic Batata
Kongo - Mbala
Lukumi Oduko, undukumduku
Description
Annual reaching to 2 feet in height. It is in
flower from June to October, and the
seeds ripen from July to October. Grows
in waste grounds near houses.
USES
Description
Crawling vine producing large rhizomes.
Well known for its nutritional value. The
stems are smooth; leaves elliptical;
flowers pale purple.
USES
Medicinal
Chest problems and kidney problems,
damaged or irritated tissues, fevers,
hormonal unbalance, high blood pressure,
inflammatory swellings, melancholy, skin
complaints and pre-menstrual tension.
Medicinal
Slow milk production in lactating women,
pimples, skin blemishes
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orishaoko, Oshun
Used for rituals and offerings to the
Orishas.
Other uses
The growing plant is said to repel insects.
BOTON DE ORO / INDIAN MALLOW
(Abutilon indicum)
BONIATO DE PLAYA / BAYHOPS

(Ipomoea pes-caprae)
Other names:
Lukumi Ewe oshiwere, ewe fin
Other names:
Puerto Rico Bejuco de Playa
U.S. - Railroad vine
Description
Shrub with solitary, pale peachy-yellow
flowers formed among the large broad,
toothed, hairy leaves and at the ends of
the branches. Grows up to 6 ft. high.
Description
A native, robust vine reaching up to 10 ft.
long. It is found in coastal areas, forming
large colonies; in flower year-round,
peaking from May till November. The
stems are flexible, thick and root at the
nodes. The leaves are green, leathery;
they are two-lobed and look more heartshaped. The flowers are pink to lavender,
funnel-like, open in the morning, only one
time each. The fruit is brown, and in the
form of half an inch pods, each containing
four seeds.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Diabetes, urinary infections
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Oshun, Inle
Correlating Odu: Ejionle Odi, Oyekun
Iwori, Odi Osa, Irete Wori.
Rites of Palo
Medicinal
Arthritis pains and aches, jellyfish stings.
Religious/Magical
Ritual baths to banish evil spells.
49
Dalia Quiros-Moran
BRUJA/ YELLOW AUTUMN CROCUS

(Sternbergia lutea)
Other names:
Cuba Brujita
U.S - Winter daffodil, Fall daffodil
Kongo - Guengue
Lukumi - Erere
Description
Cultivated bulb. Gently curving flowers
extend up to 2 inches from 6 to 8 inches
stems. Produces crocus-like leaves after
flowering that lasts through the winter. The
flower is yellow, pink or white.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
BRUSELLA
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs Shango
Rites of Palo
50
sub acid fruits. It is in flower during the

spring.
C
CABALONGA / TROMPET FLOWER
(Thevetia peruviana)
USES
Medicinal
Tetanus, wound
Other names:
Arada Kuyomasa
Brazil - Castanha eltrica
British Antilles - Lucky nut, luck seed
Colombia
-Cabalonga,
cobalonga,
amancay,
aje de monte, pepa de cruz, castaeto
Costa Rica -Chirca
El Salvador -Chilindrn, campanilla
amarilla
Guatemala -Chirca
Haiti - Fy-Sezisman
Mexico -Chirca, narciso amarillo
Nicaragua -Chilca
Puerto Rico -Caballn
U.S. - Yellow oleander
Venezuela -Lengua de gato, retama
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
To ward off illness

CABO DE HACHA / BROOMSTICK
(Trichilia Hirta)
Other names:
Cuba - Guaban, Jubaban
Dominican Republic - Jojoban
Haiti - Monben bata
Kongo - Nkunia, beleloasu
Lukumi - Ere, iggi, nika, akudiyica
Mexico - Garbancillo, Jumay, Palo
colorado chico, azuica.
Nicaragua - Mata-piojo
Panama Conejo colorado, Matapiojo
Puerto Rico - Cabo de Hacha, Guaita,
jobillo, nolinillo, palo de Anastasio, retamo.
Description
Graceful tree with shiny leaves and yellow
or apricot Funnel shaped flowers; five
petals.
The globular fruits are segmented and
green in color. Latex and fruits are
poisonous.
Description
Tree of the mahogany family that reaches
up to 35 ft high. The trunk is erect,
cylindrical. Bark is maroon. Wood often
used for timber. Produces aromatic cream
flowers. Fruits are green turning brown
when matured.
USES
Medicinal
Fever, insomnia, malaria.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Used only for rituals of this Orisha.
Rites of Palo
The seed for amulets.
USES
Medicinal
Anemia,
asthma,
bronchitis,
pneumonia, sore, tumors.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oya.
Correlating Odu: Iroso Ika
Rites of Palo
Nkisi rituals and amulets.
Purification
baths
negativity.
CABEZA DE TORO: Aceitunillo

CABIMA / CUBAN MANGOSTEEN
(Rheedia aristata)
Other names:
Cuba - Manaju
Other - Body lice, Vermin
Description
Native tree reaching up to 35 ft. The trunk
bears one-inch diameter, reddish wood;
leaves sharp-tipped; lateral roots; yellow,
51
to
fever,
banish
Dalia Quiros-Moran
CACAO / COCOA
(Theobroma cacao)
CAGADILLA DE GALLINA / DINGY

FLOWERED ONCIDIUM
(Oncidium undulatum)
Other names:
Brazil - Cacau
Other names:
Kongo Pentongo
Lukumi - Munumi
U.S. Mule ear orchid
Description
Tropical evergreen tree growing up to 25
feet. The pod contains the cacao beans
that are fermented, roasted, and
processed to extract cocoa powder.
Description
Cultivated orchid.
USES
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ibeji.
Medicinal
Asthma, burns, chest colds, cough,
digestive complaints, dry lips, fever,
insomnia, malaria, rheumatism, scars,
snakebite, and wounds.
CAGUAIRAN / COPAL TREE

(Copaifera hymenaefolia)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
Other Names:
Cuba - Caguairn, quiebrahacha
Kongo - Uye
Lukumi - Bi
CAF / COFFEE
(Coffea arabica)
Other names:
Haiti Kafe
Kongo Tufiolo, Kuandia
Lukumi Obi motiwa,
Ekanchachaete
Description
Indigenous plant. Maroon wood.
USES
Iggi
Medicinal
Sores, hard to heal wounds, warts.
Kan,
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Okana Osa.
Rites of Palo
Description
Evergreen shrub up to 15 feet in height.
The leaves are elliptical, glossy. The fruit
is a fleshy berry, in which 2 seeds are
imbedded. Blossoming and fruit setting
occur mainly 2 to 3 times per year.
CAGUAJASA / PASSION FLOWER

(Passiflora alata)
USES
Other names:
Cuba - Girito de pasin, pasionaria.
U.S. - fragrant granadilla, winged-stem
passionflower
Medicinal
Toothaches. Constipation. Fever. Chest
ailments.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Egun rituals and other ceremonies.
Taboo in Odu Ejionle Odi.
Rites of Palo
Description
Vigorous liana, with thick quadrangular
winged stems. The leaves are oval or
oblong, the flowers are spectacular, and
the fruit is oval yellow to bright orange,
resembling tiny calabashes.
52
CAIMITO / STAR APPLE

(Chrysophyllum cainito)
USES
Medicinal
Acne.
Other names:
Colombia - Maduraverde
Haiti - Abiaba, Kayimit
Kongo Ennua, Yere
Lukumi - Asan
Mexico - Caimito, Cayumito
Puerto Rico Caimitero
CAGUASO / SEASHORE PASPALUM

(Paspalum virgatum)
Other names:
Cuba Caguazo, Caguate
Description
An evergreen tree that reaches a height of
50 ft. The oblong-lanceolate leaves are
dark green and smooth on the upper
surface and silky golden brown on the
under surface. The purplish-white flowers
are small. The globose fruits range up to 4
inches in diameter and are green or
purplish. The tough skin surrounds a
white, sweet, edible pulp in which are
imbedded the small, hard, brown, glossy
seeds.
Description
Perennial grass. The robust stems are 3
6 ft. high. Blades rough, sharp edged;
inflorescence green with 10 to 15
racemes.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshosi.
CAIMITO CIMARRON: Caimitillo
USES
CAIMITILLO / SATIN LEAF

(Chrysophylum oliviforme)
Medicinal
Diarrhea. Gum
Sores.
Other names:
Cuba - Caimitillo, caimito cimarrn,
macanabo.
Haiti - Ti kayimit
Lukumi Ewe kosaa
U.S. - Golden leaf tree.
disease.
Hemorrhage.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oya.
Correlating Odu: Iwori Ika, Odi Okana,
Obara Otrupon, Okana Ogunda, Osa
Okana.
Rites of Palo
Description
Slender tree of distinctive shinny, stiff,
dark green leaves with satiny fuzz on the
underside. Tiny pale green, clustered
flowers. The green fruit, an oval berry,
resembles a small olive, as indicated by
the botanical name. The resemblance
persists when the fruit ripens to purpleblack.
CAIMITO BLANCO / WHITE CAIMITO

(Chrysophyllum cainito)
USES
Description
Variety of the common caimito.
Medicinal
Diabetes. Fever.
USES
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
For Nkisi rituals and amulets.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oya.
Correlating Odu: Odi Okana.
CAIMONI: Camagua
53
Dalia Quiros-Moran
CAIREL / BEACH BEAN

(Mucuna urens)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Babalu Aye, and Inle.
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Eyioko, Otura
Osa, Otura Irete.
Other names:
Cuba - Jairey, Jairel, Pica-Pica.
Lukumi - Inabi
U.S. Cowhage
Description
A large woody perennial vine with a
fibrous root and a twining, herbaceous,
much-branched stem of considerable
length. Leaflets elliptic, lustrous, and
purplish below, green above. The flowers
are large, have a disagreeable odor; the
legume sessile, oblong, and covered with
irritant setae; seeds 1-4, compressed or
subglobose, orbicular, brownish fuscous. It
is found in woods along river courses,
upon fences, and in waste, neglected
places.
Rites of Palo
To banish illness caused by witchcraft or
the evil eye.
CAJUELA / SURADAN PILON
(Hyeronima alchorneoides)
Other names:
Brazil - Licurana
Colombia - Cargamanto
Cuba - Carne de doncella
Venezuela Carne Asada, Trompillo
USES
Description
Large straight trees with spreading
rounded buttresses; reaching heights of
130 ft. bark rough reddish. Leaves
glabrous, with thick, tan, pubescence
below, peltate scales above; Flowers
without petals, calyx cuplike yellowishgreen.
Medicinal
Abdominal discomfort, cholera, dropsy,
hemorrhoids,
leucorrhoea,
paralysis,
toothache.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango.
For amulets to attract good fortune

and love.
USES
Medicinal
Burns
CAISIMON / MONKEY'S HAND

(Pothomorphe peltata)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Osayin, Shango, Ogun.
Rites of Palo
Other names:
Kongo - Tagwan
Lukumi Ewe okuwe
Mexico (Pothomorphe auritum)
Caisimn, Mano de zopilote, Santilla de
culebra
Puerto Rico - Basquia
CALABAZA / PUMPKIN
(Cucurbita Maxima)
Description
Native perennial shrub reaching heights of
5 ft. Found in lowlands and mid-elevation
forests. The erect stems are ridged, green.
Large leaves, pointed at the end. In flower
during the spring, cream scented flowers.
Other names:
Arada - Ahohuwe
Cuba Calabaza amarilla
Dominican Republic Auyama
Kongo Male, malengue
Lukumi - Ewe Elegede
USES
Medicinal
Cystitis.
Erysipelas.
Inflammation.
Gonorrhea.
54
Description
An annual creeper with stems up to 30
feet long, furnished with large claspers.
The leaves are large and rough like
Melons. The flowers are large like yellow
Lilies in color. The fruit is very large and
contains white, flattish seeds.
Rites of Palo
For rituals amulets.
CAMAGUA
(Wallenia laurifolia)
Other names:
Cuba - Caimon, carmon, casmagua,
caumao, guacamar.
Dominican Republic Caimoni, Pendola
Haiti Bois Crapaud
Kongo - Bisonto
USES
Medicinal
Bowels and urinary tract irritations; burn
pains, catarrh, eczema, enlarged prostate,
tapeworms.
Description
Native shrub found in low-lying wet areas,
the wood is brownish very pale red with
slight streaks, hard, has no bark; it is all
core. The leaves are large, elliptical;
flowers in panicles, terminal.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Odi Ika, Obara Meji,
Obara Ogunda, Obara Otrupo.
Used for healing rituals.
Used for Babalu Aye's rituals and
ceremonies.
For purification baths to attract good

fortune
USES
Medicinal
Constipation.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
CALAGUALA / RABBIT'S FOOT FERN

(Polypodium aureum)
CAMAGIRA
Other names:
Brazil Avenca Dourada
Cuba - Calaguala, Carraguala
U.S. - Golden polypody
Other names:
Lukumi Koko yakebere
Description
Native tree, the wood is yellow with
streaks, hard, compact and heavy, fine
grained.
Description
Plant that has a thick creeping rhizome
covered with golden-brown scales. The
furry appearance of these rhizomes give
the plant its common name that it shares
with a number of other fern species.
USES
Medicinal
Pleurisy, lung ailments.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya.
Medicinal
Abscess, boils, bronchitis, colds, colic,
cough, contusions, fever, flu, gout, gripe,
high blood pressure, immune disorders,
menstruation
problems,
paludism,
psoriasis,
respiratory
disorders,
rheumatism,
skin,
tumor,
urinary
infections.
CAMARON / SWAMP FERN

(Acrostichum excelsum)
Other names:
Cuba - Camarn, bruja, guayacancillo,
helecho arbo, hueso de costa, palmera sin
espinas.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
55
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Kongo Toufen, inbrinda

Lukumi Ewe de
U.S. - Inland leather fern
CAMBUTERA/ CYPRESS VINE

(Quamoclit pinnata)
Other names:
Cuba - Cambustera, cambustera fina.
U.S. - Cardinal climber, star glory
Description
Fern with lanceolate leaves, simple, over 3
ft. long.
Description
Annual smooth twining vine that can climb
to 20 ft. or more; smooth stems, lacy
leaves and scarlet flowers. The leaves are
3-4 inches long and feather-like, finely
divided into threadlike segments. The
scarlet red (rarely white) flowers are
tubular, and flare out at the mouth into a
five-pointed star.
USES
Medicinal
Backaches, lower back pain.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya, Ogun.
Rites of Palo
USES
Medicinal
Catarrh, piles.
CAMBIA VOZ / FLORIDA BOXWOOD

(Schaefferia frutescens)
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
Other names:
Cuba - Cambia voz, amansa guapo,
cuaba.
Dominican Republic Cabra
Haiti - Bwa Kapab, Capab, Petit-Bwa
Blanc, Bwa Petit Garon, Pl, Balai de
Montagne
West Indies - Florida boxwood, yellow
wood
CAMELOTE / GALINGALE
(Cyperus Articulatus)
Other names:
Cuba - Junco.
Lukumi - Ibaru
U.S. Jointed flat sedge
Description
Shrub found close to the tidewater area on
sandy soil and hammocks. Smallish
leaves borne close together Leaves are
yellow green Small greenish white flowers
are borne in the leaf in compact clusters.
Fruits turn from green to yellow then bright
red. The bark is smooth gray or brown.
Description
Tall wetland sedge with hollow stems to 6
ft. tall, wide at base, gradually narrowing,
stem cross-hatching at regular node-like
intervals; purplish basal sheaths; shortand
long-stalked
spikelet
clusters;
spikelets narrow, linear, to 2 in. long;
nutlet dark brown, 3-angled, shiny.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Flu, cough, impotence.
Medicinal
Ache, colic, internal tumors, sedative.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Osa Ogbe, Osa Okana.
Correlating Odu: Oyekun Otura.
Rites of Palo
It has aphrodisiac powers.
For amulets to attract love
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshosi.
56
Jamaica - Spanish carnations

Mexico - Tabachin, flor de camarn,
maravilla
Nicaragua - Barbona roja
Per - Angel sisal
Puerto Rico - Clavelina
U.S. - Flower fence poinciana, Barbadosflower fence, Golden Shower, Indian
Laburnum, Purging Fistula
CAMPANA / ANGELS TRUMPETS

(Datura suaveolens)
Other names:
Colombia Borrachero, guante
Cuba (La Habana) - Campana, flor de
campana, campanilla, floripundio blanco,
rbol de la bibijagua, trompeta de Angel,
Dama o reina de la noche.
Kongo - Kusuambo ngunga
Lukumi Agogo
Mexico Floridondio
Puerto Rico - Cornucopia
Description
A medium-sized, deciduous tree of about
10 meters tall. Leaves are compound, with
4-8 pairs of opposite leaflets. Flowers are
golden yellow and in hanging bunches of
up to 40 cm long. They appear when the
branches are bare, just before the new
leaves emerge.
Description
Perennial shrub that can reach a height of
3 ft. The trunk is ligneous and dark color,
while the ends of the branches are
greenish. Leaves oblong-lanceolate. The
showy scented flowers are white or yellow
with red tonalities.
USES
Medicinal
Cholera, constipation, fever, high blood
sugar, pain, viral infections.
USES
Medicinal
Asthma, bronchitis,
hemorrhoids.
chest
congestion,
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Rites of Palo

household.
To banish negativity.
CANDELILLA / STINGING NETTLE

(Tragia gracilis)
Other names:
Cuba - Ortiga, pringamoza
Kongo Banso, Nfula feino
Lukumi Ewe tinabo
Nicaragua - Pringamoza.
Puerto Rico - Pringamoza.
U.S. Tragia
CAMPANA
GALLEGA:
Aguinaldo
Morado
CAMPANILLA: Arbol de la bibijagua
CAMPANILLA
BLANCA:
Aguinaldo
Blanco
CAMPANOLA: Aguinaldo Morado
Description
Perennial herb that grows up to 6 ft. from
a creeping rootstock. The stem and leaves
are covered with stinging hairs that upon
touching them produce a burning
sensation or itch.
CAMPECHE / FLOWERFENCE
(Caesalpina vesicaria)
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango y Oke.
Other names:
Brazil - Maravilha, barba de barata.
Colombia - Angelito
Cuba - Palo campeche, palo del Brasil,
guacamaya de costa
Dominican Republic - Carzazo
El Salvador - Barbn
Haiti Francillade
57
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Rites of palo
For spells.
Negative properties.
quarrels.
Causes
Description
Erect tree generally 25 ft tall. Slender in
habit or with a spreading crown, it has
brown furrowed bark. The evergreen
leaves, relatively thin, glossy, short- to
long-stemmed, fragrant, flowers, creamcolored, silky-hairy. The fruit, somewhat
oval, which on ripening turns lemon
yellow, golden-yellow or pale orangeyellow, is very smooth and glossy.
chaos,
CANELA DEL MONTE / WHITE WOOD

TREE
(Canella alba)
Other Names:
Cuba Curbana
Haiti Canelle
Kongo Mokokuaguando
Lukumi Iggi epo kan
Puerto Rico Barbasco, Canela blanca,
Molambo
U.S. Wild cinnamon tree, Pepper
cinnamon
USES
Medicinal
Skin eruptions.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun and Ibeji.
Correlating Odu: Obara Okana, Otrupon
Ogbe, Ofun Irete.

overcome legal issues.
Description
A straight tree, from 20 to 50 feet high,
with erect branches at the summit only.
The bark is yellowish-white; the inner bark
thick, smooth, and pale, with a biting,
aromatic taste. The leaves are scattered,
shining, and yellowish-green. The flowers
are small, and borne in clusters, and of a
purple color. Berry the size of a pea,
fleshy, smooth, blue, or black, hot and
biting while green. The bark is of a pale
yellowish-white color, occurring in hard,
twisted pieces, with an acrid, peppery
taste, an aromatic, clove-like, or
cinnamon-like odor.
CANUTILLO / WHITEMOUTH
DAYFLOWER
(Commelina Elegans, virginica,
longicaulis)
Other names:
Cuba - Caamazo dulce, pitilla, pito de
bejuco, tibisi chico, yerba de sapo.
Kongo -Totoi
Lukumi - Ewe Karodo, cotonembo,
cotonlo, mini
U.S. - Dayflower
USES
Medicinal
Cold, diarrhea, difficult menstruation,
sluggish digestion, wound pain.
Description
Perennial growing to 2 ft. It is in flower
from July to September, and the seeds
ripen from August to October. Found in
pinelands, sand dunes and fields.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Rites of Palo
For love amulets and potions.
To attract good fortune, love and

prosperity.
USES
Medicinal
Skin irritations.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya and all the female
Orishas.
CANISTEL / EGG FRUIT

(Pouteria campechiana)
Other names:
Lukumi Igi Em
58
Correlating Odu: Odi Ogunda, Iroso

Ejionle, Obara Irete, Otrupon Irete, Irete
Oshe, Ofun Otrupon.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Nanaburuku, Babalu Aye, and
Elegba.
Correlating Odu: Odi Okana.
Rites of Palo
Used
for
attributes,
rituals
and
ceremonies.
To annoy an adversary.
CANUTILLO BLANCO
Description See "Canutillo"
USES
Medicinal
Eye ailments.
CAA CORO
Other names:
Kongo - Lidde
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala and Yemaya.
USES
Medicinal
Kidney and bladder ailments.
CANUTILLO MORADO
Description See "Canutillo"
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya and Shango.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango.
For purification baths to attract food

fortune.
CAA DE ARROYO: Caa Santa

CAA DE AZUCAR / SUGAR CANE
(Saccharum officinarum)
CAA BRAVA / BAMBOO

(Bambusa vulgaris)
Other names:
Lukumi Ewe ereke
Other names:
Arada - Do
Cuba - Bamb, caamb, gin, pito.
Haiti - Bambou, Bwa-bambou, Bamboucommun
Mexico - Caa hueca, carricillo, carrizo.
Lukumi - Oko, iggisu, yenkeye
Description
Giant grass, most cultivated species grow
to 5-7 feet tall. Its stalk contains sweet
juice from which sugar can be extracted. It
is grown by planting "seed cane," pieces
of sugarcane stalk that germinate and
produce new sugarcane plants.
Description
Giant grass. Found in ditches, riversides
and marshland. The stems are woody,
erect, hallow, reaching up to 30 ft. in
height and 2 inches in diameter.
USES
Medicinal
Fever. Paludism.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Oshun.
The juice for ritual baths to attract

good fortune and prosperity.
USES
Medicinal
Asthma, blood toxins, cystitis, vaginal
infections.
59
Dalia Quiros-Moran
CAA DE CASTILLA / GIANT REED

(Arundo donax)
Description
Medium-sized, deciduous tree of about 30
ft. tall. Leaves are compound, with 4-8
pairs of opposite leaflets. Flowers are
golden yellow and in hanging bunches.
Fruits are woody, cylindrical pods,
becoming blackish with maturity.
Other names:
Arada - Saekue
Cuba - Caa brava, gin.
Mexico Carrizo, Caa hueca
Puerto Rico Caa Guana
USES
Description
Perennial grass growing to 18 feet. It is in
flower in September, and the seeds ripen
in October. Found in ditches, riversides
and marshland.
Medicinal
Fever, constipation, cholera, intestinal
parasites, pain.
USES
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
Medicinal
Difficult menstruation, excessive milk flow
in lactating women.
CAA SANTA / SPIRAL GINGER

(Costus spicatus)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Odi Eyioko.
Abakua Society
Used for rituals and ceremonies.
Other names:
Cuba - Cauela santa, caa de arroyo,
esquinanto.
Haiti - Canne-Congo, Canne-d'Eau, PetitDegonfle
Kongo Nfita, maddiada
CAA FISTULA / PINKSHOWER

(Cassia fistula)
Description
Plant from the ginger family that grows to
about 6 to 7 feet tall. Leaves are about a
foot long and about 4 inches wide.
Flowers are reddish-orange.
Other names:
Brazil - Caafstola, jeneuna, marimary
preto,
marimary rana, marimary saro
Colombia - Caafstula, caandonga
Costa Rica - Sandal, Carao
Cuba
Caa
fstola,
carbonera,
caandonga.
Dominican Republic - Palo de chivo, palo
de burro
El Salvador - Cargo, Carao
Haiti - Casse, casse espagnole, Kas dous,
Kanfis, Kas-Zabitan, Casse z'habitant
Hawaii - Coral-shower
Honduras - Cargo, Carao
Jamaica - Horse cassia.
Kongo Musengue, Monuambo
Lukumi Ireke moye
Mexico - Caafstula, quahuayo
Nicaragua - Carmano, caragua
Puerto Rico - Caa fstula cimarrona,
Velamuerto
U.S. - Cassia, pink shower.
USES
Medicinal
Chest
colds,
excessive
bleeding, high blood pressure.
menstrual
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun.
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Otura.
Rites of Palo
CAAMAZO AMARGO / SOUR GRASS
(Paspalum conjugatum)
Other names:
Cuba - Caamazo hembra, cambute.
Lukumi - Ogbo, okutako
U.S. - T grass, ti grass, sour palpalum
60
Description
Perennial grass that grows in wet habitats
forming a dense ground cover. The stem
spreading by long, often reddish-purple
stolons, leaves flattened, green or tinged
with purple margins somewhat hairy.
CAOBA/ MAHOGANY
(Swietenia Mahogoni)
Other names:
Cuba - Caoba, Caoba macho
Haiti Kajou
Kongo - Yukula
Lukumi Ayan
U.S. - West Indian mahogany
USES
Medicinal
Hemorrhoids.
Description
An upright growing tree, up to 150 feet in
height, with a broad rounded symmetrical
crown. The leaves are pinnately
compound, ovate-lanceolate. The fruit is a
large greenish-brown woody capsule,
splitting into 5 parts releasing flat, long
winged, light-brown seeds. It is among the
most valued timber species in South
America; the wood is dense, close-grained
and red-brown.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Babalu Aye and Yemaya.
Rites of Palo
Other
Vermin
CAAMAZO DULCE / BROAD LEAF
CARPET GRASS
(Axonopus compressus)
USES
Medicinal
Anemia, bleeding wounds, blood toxins,
constipation, diarrhea, dysentery, fever,
malaria.
Other names:
Cuba - Camo, canutillo.
Lukumi - Ogbo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oba and Shango.
Wood carved paraphernalia.
Rites of Palo
Description
Grass. It is clump forming and spreading;
stems flattened, erect to 3 ft. tall. The
leaves
are flat, broad, rounded at the tip. Flowers
on lower side of inflorescence branches.
Found in wetlands, under trees and horse
stalls.
CAOBA MACHO: Caoba

CAOBA HEMBRA: Caobilla
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
CAOBILLA / MAHOGANY
(Swietenia Mahogoni)
Other names:
Cuba - Caoba hembra
CAAMAZO
HEMBRA:
Caamazo
amargo
CAAMBU: Caa Brava
CAAMO: Caamazo dulce
CAANDONGA: Caa Brava
Description
An upright growing tree with a broad,
rounded, symmetrical crown. The shape of
the tree appears to make it wind resistant
and the wood is tough. The leaves are
medium green in color.
61
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
Description
Tree that grows in calcareous soils, near
the coastline, reaching up to 20 ft. high.
Copious foliage, white flowers and
globose fruits, similar to a cherry but white
or pink, edible.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oba and Ogun.
Rites of Palo

of persons to attract mental stability
and peace.
USES
Medicinal
Herpes, chest ailments, vertigo, insomnia,
stress.
CAOBILLA DE SABANA / RONDELETIA

(Rondeletia stellata)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Eshu
Correlating Odu: Okana Ogunda
Other names:
Cuba - Encospe, Hatillo, Vigueta blanca.
Description
Indigenous shrub found in damp, acid
soils. Reaches up to 24 ft. The branches
are hairy; leaves ovate; the flowers are
white.
CARACOLILLO
Marrullero
DE
CERCA:
Bejuco
CARAGUARA
USES
USES
Medicinal
Dog bite, insect bites, wounds inflected by
poisonous plants, blood toxins.
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Eshu.
CARAMBOLI / STAR APPLE

(Averrhoa carambola)
CAPULINA /CAPULI / STRAWBERRY

TREE
(Muntingia calabura)
Description
Attractive ornamental tree that attains a
height of 30 to 35 feet. The leaves have 3
to 11 leaflets; small, fragrant, rose-colored
flowers. The fruits are star-shaped when
cut across and are crisp, juicy, and
aromatic, although usually acid in taste.
Other names:
Brazil - Calabura, pau de seda
Colombia -Mahauj, chitot, manguito,
acuruc, chirriador, majagito
Cuba - Capulinas, capulina, gusima
cerezo, memizo.
Dominican Republic - Memiso
Ecuador - Nigito
El Salvador - Capul
Haiti - Bois d'orme, bois de soie marron
Mexico - Capulin, Jonote, bersilana, puan,
palman
Peru - Bolina, yumanaza
Philippines - Dtiles, rtiles
Puerto Rico - Capulin
Venezuela - Cedrillo, majagua, mahauj
USES
Medicinal
Mumps, tumors, blood toxins.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango.
CARBONERA: Caa Brava
62
CARBONERO / CASSIA
(Cassia biflora)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun and Elegba.
Rites of Palo
Other names:
Cuba (Camagey) - Carbonero.
Mexico - Flor de San Jose,
Nicaragua - Ahumada, montenegrillo
Puerto Rico - Retama
Venezuela - Brucha
CARDON / ELKHORN
(Euphorbia lactea)
Description
Flowering shrub or tree reaching up to 9 ft.
high, leaves compound, with 4-5 pairs of
leaflets, flowers light yellow.
Other names:
Colombia - Lechero de lindero
Cuba - Cardn, tuna de cruz, cruz de
caravaca.
Dominican Republic - Candelero, cato,
raqueta
Haiti Candelabre
Kongo Disa
Lukumi - Ika
Puerto Rico - Escambrn, moteado,
candelero
U.S. Frilled Fan, Mottle spurge,
milkstripe
euphorbia
Virgin Islands - Monkey puzzle euphorbia,
Malaya spurge-tree
USES
Medicinal
Foot discomfort, fever.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun, Dada.
Rites of Palo
CARBONERO DE COSTA: Aretillo
Description
Succulent shrub, much branched, up to 7
feet tall. Resistant to dry climates.
Propagated from stem tip cuttings.
CARDO SANTO / PRICKLY POPPY

(Argemone Mexicana)
Other names:
Haiti - Chadron Benit, Chadron, ZebChadron, Zeb-Dragon, Chadron Marbre
Kongo Cando ere
Lukumi - Ika, Igbeelegun
Mexico Chicalote
U.S. - Mexican Poppy
USES
Medicinal
Paludism, need of vomiting.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Babalu Aye and Ogun.
Correlating Odu: Okana Osa.
Used for Babalu Aye's rituals and
ceremonies.
Planted outside, near the front door

of the house for protection.
Description
Annual plant has a stem about 2 feet high,
erect, bristly, and glaucous. The leaves
are alternate, armed with prickly spines,
and spotted with white patches. The
flowers are either yellow or white. The
plant, when bruised, exudes a viscid, milklike juice, which turns yellow when
exposed to the atmosphere.
CAREY / BLACK IRONWOOD

(Krugiodendron ferreum)
USES
Other names:
Cuba (Camagey) - Carey de costa.
Lukumi - Ayapaeka
Medicinal
Pain, warts, cold sores, coetaneous
affections, skin diseases, itches, cataracts,
dropsy, jaundice, colic, fever, cough, chest
complaints, nervousness in children,
chronic skin diseases.
63
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Description
Trees of very dense, heavy wood;
because of the specific gravity of its wood,
it does not float in water. It has gray bark.
The leaves are thick, dark, and heavy with
a blunt notched end. They sometimes
appear tattered because they may remain
on the tree for several years. A small
yellow-green flower becomes a black
round fruit with a single seed.
CARQUEZA / COASTAL RAGWEED

(Ambrosia hispida)
Other names:
Cuba - Carquesa, artemisa de playa,
artemisa de costa.
Kongo Urekere
Lukumi Mireure
Mexico Margarita del Mar
U.S. Bay geranium
USES
Description
Perennial vine that grows in the wild,
along the seashore. The leaves are
opposite, firm texture.
Medicinal
Anemia, blood tonic, emphysema, gum
ailments, malaria, purgative, pleurisy,
toothache.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Not used for ritual omiero. This plant
infuriates Oshun.
Medicinal
Menstrual problems, muscle
rheuma, sprains, paralysis.
pains,
Religious/Magical
Orisha worship
Belongs to Yemaya.
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Odi.

of objects and the household.
CARMONI: Camagua
CARNE DE DONCELLA: Cajuela
CAROLINA PUNZO / WILLOW BUSTIC
(Dipholis salicifolia)
Other names:
Cuba (Oriente) - Carolina punz, jocuma
blanca, almendro silvestre, cuy.
Lukumi Ewe Osauro
Mexico - Xac-chum
Puerto Rico - Almendrn, tabloncillo
West Indies - Wild cassada, cassadawood
CARRASPITA / CANDYTUFF
(Iberis odorata)
Other names:
Cuba - Carraspique, carraspica, pinito de
flor, zarapico.
Lukumi Aronyu, Ina
Description
An evergreen shrub or small tree that
reaches heights of 35 ft. The leaves are
simple,
alternate,
and
oblong
to
lanceolate,
shiny, dark green above and dull, pale
green below. The fruit is a leathery, nearly
round; black berry with thin, dry flesh. The
gray or reddish-brown bark is divided into
square-shaped scales.
Description
Cultivated herb with smooth and stout,
pointy leaves. The clustered florets on
stems 6 to 12 inches long; white, pink, red
and lavender. Slightly scented.
USES
Religious/ Magical
Orisha worship
Belongs to Eshu.
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Wori.
It has negative properties.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Osa Ogbe.
For rituals.
Rites of Palo
64
CASCABELILLO / RADDLEBOX
(Crotalaria lotifolia)
USES
Medicinal
Fatigue.
Other names:
Cuba - Maromera, maruga.
Kongo Koro, Nkeri
Lukumi Ladde. Ewe pariwo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oba.
Rites of Palo
Description
Leguminous plant with showy racemes of
yellow flowers. The fruit a peapod, when
matured the dry seeds sound like a rattle.
CAUMAO
(Wallenia laurifolia)
USES
Other names:
Cuba - Casmagua, guacamar.
Kongo Bautenso
Lukumi - Patire
Medicinal
Eczema, itch, ringworm.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Yeku.
Description
Native shrub found in low-lying wet areas,
the wood is brownish/pale red with slight
streaks, hard, has no bark, all core. The
leaves are large, elliptical; flowers in
panicles, terminal.
CASCARILLO: Croto
CASCO DE MULO / PINK ORCHID TREE
(Bauhinia monandra)
USES
Medicinal
Rheumatism.
Description
Ornamental tree native from Asia. Grows
to 20 feet tall. It has lobed leaves and 5
inch flowers with overlapping petals; color
pink or white.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba.
Rites of Palo
USES
Religious/ Magical
Orisha Worship
CAUQUI / MATRIMONY VINE

(Lycium chinensis)
Description
Small shrub, obovate leaves and purple
flowers; the fruits are ovate and red.
CASTAO / TOAD WOOD

(Cupania americana)
Other names:
Cuba - Guara, guara comn, guramo.
Dominican Republic - Guarana
Haiti Satanyet
Kongo Boue
Lukumi - Orun
USES
Medicinal
Eye ailments.
CAYAJABO / BAY BEAN
(Canavalia cubensis)
Description
Tree with small branches; leaves
dentated, brown inflorescence, the
capsule or fruit is divided into three
compartments, each containing one black
seed.
Other names:
Cuba - Mate.
Lukumi Iru, orire, iggi irubi
65
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Description
Sturdy far reaching vine with a strong root
system. The leaves are wide, flat. The
pods produce sea beans throughout the
year.
Description
Plants with hollow leaves and an enlarged
bulb that develops at ground level. The
roots come off the bottom of the bulb. The
flowers are produced in the second
growing season consisting of many small
showy purplish flowers.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Warts.
Medicinal
Cold, influenza, insomnia, kidney and
bladder stones, tumor.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba.
Rites of Palo

and ward off from negativity.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to all the Orishas.
Rites of Palo
For rituals.
CEBOLLA MORADA / PURPLE ONION
CAYAYA
(Tournefortia bicolor)
USES
Other names:
Colombia - Lagrimas de San Pedro
Cuba - Bejuco cayaya macho, nigua.
Mexico - Ortiguilla, Amapa hasta, perlas
Nicaragua - Tiricia, frutilla
Puerto Rico - Nigua, Mata de Nigua,
Bejuco de Nigua
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Babalu Aye rituals and ceremonies.
For cleansing baths to attract good

fortune, prosperity and ward off from
sickness.
Description
Liana. Flowers white, inflorescence a
scorpiod cyme, anthers blue-green,
filaments very short. Common in beach
vegetation.
CEBOLLETA / NUT GRASS

(Cyperus rotundus)
Other names:
Cuba - Ajo cimarrn, cebolln, coquito,
corojillo, macagita.
Kongo Temje-tenje
Lukumi Alubosa
USES
Medicinal
Blood toxins, infectious diseases.
Description
Perennial growing from 2 ft. tall; triangular
3-sided unbranched flower stems; grasslike leaves; purple to brown flowers; leaflike bracts under flower clusters are
shorter than the flowers; rough, oblong,
irregularly shaped tubers; tubers have a
bitter flavor.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba.
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Iwori.
Rites of Palo
USES
CEBOLLA / ONION
(Allium cepa)
Medicinal
Asthma, digestive problems, head aches,
head sores, intestinal worms and
parasites, menstrual complaints skin
itches and sores, skin and renal infections,
stomach/uterus spasms and pain.
Other names:
Haiti Oignon
Kongo - Molabo
Lukumi - Alubosa, Ella Sro
66
more than 200' high: with widely spreading

branches. While still on the tree, the fruits
burst open exposing the cotton like
substance.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Babalu aye and Yemaya.
Burned with incense to expel

negativity.
USES
CEDRO/ MEXICAN CEDAR

(Cedrela mexicana)
Medicinal
Asthma,
dysentery,
fevers,
kidney
diseases, menstruation bleedings and
venereal diseases.
Other names:
Cuba Cedro
Haiti Sd
Kongo - Nkunia menga tuala
Lukumi - Igi Opepe, Roko
Mexico Cedro
U.S. - Barbados cedar, spanish cedar
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Sacred tree. Belongs to Odudua.
Correlating Odu: Ejionle Meji, Iwori Iroso,
Iroso Osa, Ojuani Ogunda, Obara Iroso,
Obara Irete, Osa Obara, Osa Okana, Osa
Ogunda, Otrupon Ika, Otura Yeku, Otura
Iroso, Otura Obara, Otura Osa.
Rites of Palo

household.
To attract good fortune and ward off

from accidents, calamity, hostility and
Description
A tree reaching 60 to 90 ft. in height with a
stout trunk to more than 3.5 ft. in diameter;
it is clear of branches for two third of the
trunk. The grayish bark is deeply grooved.
The wood has a strong aromatic odor. The
flowers are small, white with glabrous
filaments. The fruit is a capsule.
USES
Medicinal
Fever, malaria, and rheumatism.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Sacred tree. Belongs to Shango. It is
taboo to burn cedar wood.
Correlating Odu: Ejionle Ofun, Odi Iroso,
Obara Irete, Osa Ojuani, Ofun Ejionle,
Otrupon Oshe, Otrupon Ogbe, Ofun Ika.
Used to carve religious paraphernalia and
attributes.
Rites of Palo
A cedar cross placed behind the front

door protects the household.
CEIBON DE ARROYO/DRAGO
(Bombax Emarginatum)
Other names:
Cuba - Drago, Carolina, lanero.
Description
Tree with white wood and reddish tones,
lustrous, silky like yet very porous and
light. Lateral roots.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Aganju.
CEIBA / KAPOK TREE

(Ceiba pentandrum)
Other names:
Arada Wele honsu
Haiti - Kapokier, Mapou, Fromagier
Lukumi - Araba
U.S. - White silk cotton tree
Description
A very large majestic tree, with
conspicuously buttressed trunk. It grows
67
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Rites of Palo
CELOSA CIMARRONA / GOLDEN

DEWDROP
(Duranta repens)
CEREZO / SWEET CHERRY

(Prunus avium)
Other names:
Brazil - Grao de galo.
Colombia - Adonis blanco, adonis morado,
garbancillo, espino negro.
Cuba - Celosa cimarrona, celosa,
garbancillo, no me olvides, violetina.
Dominican Republic - Fruta de paloma.
El Salvador - Heliotropio, chulada
Haiti - Bois jambette, mais bouilli.
Jamaica - Angels-whisper, poison macca.
Mexico - Espina blanca, capocoche.
Nicaragua - Pensamiento, heliotropo
morado.
Panama - Espina de paloma, lora, barita
de
San Jos.
Puerto Rico - Lluvia, azota caballo, lila,
cuenta de oro.
Description
Small deciduous tree with round red fruit.
Highly rated for timber. Height 20ft.. The
leaves are alternate, simple, toothed on
the margin, with 2 small glands at base of
blade; flowers 1-few in a rounded cluster,
5-parted, white; fruit fleshy, yellow or red,
with a large pit (stone).
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Odi Ejionle.
CERRAJA / COMMON SOW-THISTLE
(Sonchus oleraceus)
Description
Large, evergreen shrubs that produce
graceful, drooping branches, a few thorns,
bright green ovate leaves and numerous
small flowers throughout the year which
are followed by numerous, small, golden
"balls." having dense foliage and lilac
colored flowers.
Other names:
Cuba - Cerraja lechosa.
Description
Very common
woodland,
weed
of
gardens,
in
parkland, hedgerows, roadsides etc. The

plant is tap rooted and has small yellow
flowers. It contains a bitter milky juice;
upper stalks and flower bracts usually
covered in gland-tipped hairs.
USES
Medicinal
Throat infections.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala, Oshun.
USES
Medicinal
Colic, dyspepsia, fever, liver, hepatitis,
sore, stomach ailments, vitality. wart,
wound.
CENIZO
(Pithecolobium obovale)
Other names:
Cuba - Abey, abey blanco, encinillo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Ika Meji.
Description
Tree reaching up to 30 ft. found near
riverbanks and streams. The flowers in
racemes. Seeds are elliptical, bluish color.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha worship
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Iroso.
68
Rites of Palo
USES
Medicinal
Bladder complaints,
venereal diseases.
CHAMICO / JIMSONWEED
(Datura stramonium)
kidney
stones,
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
Other names:
Cuba Chamico, Clarin
Lukumi Ewe Ofo, ewe eshela
Mexico Burladora, Cornescopia, Higuera
loca, Santas noches, trompetilla
Panama Floripondio blanco
U.S. Thorn Apple
Venezuela - unque
CHAYOTE
(Sechium edule)
Other names:
Cuba Chayote, Chote
Kongo - Benbanguaria
Lukumi Wobedo, mionl, tutu
Puerto Rico Chocho, Tallote
Description
A bushy, smooth, fetid, annual plant, 2 or
3 feet in height. The root is rather large, of
a whitish color, giving off many fibers. The
stem is much branched, forked, spreading,
leafy, and has a yellowish-green color.
The leaves are from the forks of the stem,
large, ovate, smooth, dark-green above,
and paler beneath. The flowers are large,
axillary, erect, white, and about 3 inches
long.
Description
A tender, perennial-rooted cucurbit, with
climbing vines and leaves resembling
those of the cucumber. The light green,
pear-shaped fruit, which contains a single,
flat edible seed, may weigh as much as 23 pounds, but most often is from 6-12
ounces. The fruits may be slightly grooved
and prickly.
USES
Medicinal
Acute ophthalmia, bladder affections,
impotence,
inflammatory
rheumatism
enteritis, gastritis, hemorrhoids, peritonitis,
pleurisy, painful ulcers, rheumatism,
swelled breasts.
USES
Medicinal
Kidney and bladder ailments, kidney
stones, pneumonia.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun y Yemaya.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Eshu.
Correlating Odu: Iroso Obara.
Rites of Palo
Produces insanity
CHICHARRON DE MONTE
(Terminalia intermedia)
Other names:
Cuba - Chicharrn amarillo.
Kongo Moronki
Lukumi - Yenke
CHAYO / SPURGE NETTLE

(Jatropha urens)
Description
Indigenous trees.
Other names:
Cuba - Chaya.
Description
Bushy upright plant to 8 feet. Dark bluegreen leaves and paler veins, clusters of
white flowers on 8 inch stems held well
above the foliage.
69
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
Description
Deciduous tree with false leaflets. Found
in semi calcareous, mountainous forests.
Thick branches; leaves elliptical; the
flowers are pink/white.
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
USES
CHICHICATE / ORTIGA BRAVA

(Urera baccifera)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya.

banish negativity.
Other names:
Colombia
Guaina,
Pringamosa,
pringamoza
Cuba - Chichicastre, Ortiga, Jamo.
Dominican Republic - Pringamosa,
pringamoza
El Salvador - Chichicazte nigua
Guatemala Chichicazte
Lukumi Ewe ina
Mexico - Ortiga de Caballo, chichicastle
Panama - Ortiga
Puerto Rico - Ortiga, Ortiga brava
Venezuela - Pringamosa, pringamoza
CHIRIMOYA / CUSTARD APPLE

(Annona reticulata)
Other names:
Costa Rica - Chirimoya
Cuba - Mamn.
Haiti Kashiman
Kongo - Biloko
Lukumi Ewe Mekeri
Mexico - Anona colorada, chirimoya
Nicaragua Anona
Philippines Anona
Puerto Rico - Corazn
U.S. - bullock's heart
Venezuela - Rin
Description
A weak stemmed woody shrub that
sometimes becomes a small tree. The
most recognizable feature of the plant is
the presence of many sharp, stinging
spines on the leaves, branches and stem.
The leaves are alternate, coarse toothed
with thin blades and stout petioles. The
stem bark is smooth, light gray and green
over white inner bark, and thick greenish
pith. It is in flower during February and
fruits in April.
Description
It is a small, spreading tree, up to 25 ft. in
height, the leaves vary in size; the upper
surface of the leaves is sparsely hairy and
the lower surface is velvety-tormentose.
The fruits vary in form but usually are
heart-shaped or conical. The light-green
surface of the fruit is variable in
appearance. In some varieties it is almost
smooth with slight depressions, but in
others the carpels are terminated by an
abrupt point.
USES
Medicinal
Burns,
gallbladder
stones,
hemorrhage, tuberculosis.
ovarian
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
Causes negative effects.
USES
Medicinal
Debility, diarrhea, fatigue, leprosy.
CHINCHONA / PRINCEWOOD
(Exostema ellipticum)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala and Ibeji.
For cleansings of persons and the

household
Other names:
Cuba - Plateado, cayateje, vigueta, lirio
Santana
Dominican republic - Piipii, guinea
criolla
Kongo Monkorina
Lukumi - Monbalan
Puerto Rico - Plateado
70
Description
Tree of excellent wood that is propagated
by seed. The wood is hard, compact and
fine grain, yellow with virtually invisible
linear streaks. Grows up to 50 ft. The
leaves are ovate; single flowers; ovoid
fruit.
CIDRON / LEMON VERBENA

(Lippia Citrodora)
Description
A deciduous shrub reaching a height of 15
feet. The leaves are very fragrant,
lanceolate, arranged in threes, with
smooth margins, pale green in color; the
many small flowers are pale purple,
blooming during August in slim, terminal
panicles.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yewa.
USES
CIRUELA / HUG PLUM

(Spondias purpurea)
Medicinal
Dyspepsia, indigestion and flatulence.
Other names:
Arada - Feti
Colombia - Ciruela calentana
Costa Rica - Jocote tronador, sismoyo
Cuba - Ciruela campechana colorada o
loca.
Lukumi Igi Yeye, Yemere
Mexico Capuatlcacao
Puerto Rico - Jobillo, jobo francs
CIMARRONA: Bag
CIPRES / CYPRESS
(Cupressus funebris)
Other names:
Kongo - Nkunia lele nsambian
Lukumi - Iggiku, oru, iko
U.S. - Chinese weeping cypress
Description
A deciduous tree, up to 25 ft in height,
stout trunk and stiff branches. The pinnate
leaves are 6 to 9 inches long with 17 or
thinner, obliquely oblong-elliptic leaflets.
The reddish flowers are produced on short
growths from wood of the previous
season. The deep red fruits, which ripen in
early summer, are borne singly, or 2 or 3
together. They vary in shape and size but
usually are oval in outline, 1 to 2 inches in
length, and have a somewhat irregular
surface. A layer of very juicy, sub acid,
aromatic pulp surrounds the rather large,
slightly rough seed.
Description
An evergreen tree growing to 70 ft. It is in
leaf all year. Forms woods on mountain
slopes and ravines, especially in limestone
areas. Wood is hard, tough, white,
durable, and close grained.
USES
Medicinal
Colds, bleeding hemorrhoids, excessive
menstrual bleeding.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Ogunda, Ofun
Odi.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oya.
Correlating Odu: Irete Untelu
CIRIO
(Xylopia obtusifolia)
Other names:
Cuba - Malagueta
Kongo Sonjuo
Lukumi Enee Opa
CLAVELINA/COASTAL PLAIN WILLOW

(Salix Longipes)
Other names:
U.S. Carolina Willow
71
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Description
Shrub or small tree to 20 ft tall, found in
rocky soils, along riverbanks, gravel bars,
sandy shores and low woods. The twigs
are reddish- to grayish-brown, thin, and
brittle. The leaves are green above, pale
underneath, lanceolate, wide, glabrous,
acuminate, finely serrate; petioles hairy;
catkins at ends of branchlets. The flowers
are very small, numerous, pale yellow.
The capsules 1/4 inch long, ovate, longpointed.
San Juan.
Dominican Republic - Cuero de puerco,
tomasina, caracol.
Kongo Nkunia Ntoka
Lukumi Ofuntana
USES
Medicinal
Backaches.
Description
Small mountain tree. The leaves are
ovate, rigid. Reddish hard wood. The fruit
is elliptical, hairy.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ika Ojuani, Ofun She,
Oshe Iwori.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Osayin.
Rites of Palo
COCOTERO / COCONUT
(Cocos nucifera)
Other names:
Cuba - Cocotero
Haiti Kokoye
Kongo Sandu, Kumelenga
Lukumi Agbon, Obi
Puerto Rico Palma de Coco
COJATE
(Alpinia occidentalis)
Other names:
Colombia - Bagala
Cuba - Cojate, colonia, colonia cimarrona.
Lukumi Oru, Oburo, Didona
Puerto Rico Bijao, Narciso
Venezuela - Conopio
Description
A tree growing from 50 to 100 feet high.
The narrow, long, rigid leaflets compose
the leaves, which are of great length, and
borne in a cluster at the apex of the tall
trees. The flowers are yellowish-white and
the fruits, borne in clusters of from 10 to
20, are the well-known coconuts.
Description
Aromatic perennial found deep in the
woods; grows over 6 ft. tall. The leaves
are slender, lanceolate, smooth. The
flowers in racemes, conical, red.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Kidney ailments, shingles, toothaches.
Medicinal
Headaches, urinary track and kidney
ailments.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
Correlating Odu: Ejionle Meji, Osa Ojuani
For divination and offerings to the Orishas.

household
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
Rites of Palo

luck and expel negativity.

household to banish evil spirits and
negativity.
COCUYO
(Pouteria Dictyoneura)
Other names:
Cuba - Vigueta peluda, rbol de las
sierras,
72
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Odi Otrupon, Ojuani
Irete, Ika Odi.
COL/CABBAGE
(Brasica Oleracea)
Description
A biennial plant, producing it's large, waxy
leaves surrounding smaller compacted
head leaves in first year, and a flower stalk
bearing yellow flowers the second year.
COMBUSTERA CIMARRONA /
MANETTIA
(Manettia coccinea)
Description
Climbing shrub up to 6 ft. with long stalk;
narrow tubular flowers, slightly tightened in
the center, pink with red.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Ogbe
COLA DE
Francisco
LEON:
Bastn
USES
de
San
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oya y Shango.
Rites of Palo
COLCHON DE PERRO / WASHER

WOMAN
(Alternanthera caracasana)
COMECARA / STOPPER
(Eugenia aeruginea)
Other names:
Cuba - Sanguinaria, yerba de carretero.
U.S. Matt chaff flower
Other names:
Lukumi - Orerere
Description
Perennial herb.
Description
Tree reaching to 60 ft. heights. The glossy
leaves are elliptical, the small white
flowers occur in racemes, the ovoid fruit
purple and edible.
USES
Medicinal
Intestinal discomfort, colitis,
dysentery, intestinal ailments.
enteritis,
USES
COLONIA/SHELL GINGER
(Alpinia speciosa)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya and Ogun.
Rites of Palo
Other names:
Cuba Cojate, Pepu
Puerto Rico Boca de Dragon, Dragon
U.S. Shell plant, Queens candle
CONSUELDA / COMFREY
(Symphytum officinale)
Description
Aromatic plant cultivated in gardens for its
ornamental and aromatic properties. Both
the plant and rhizomes are robust,
reaching up to 9 ft. in height. The leaves
are
lanceolate;
beautiful
flowers
resembling and orchid; pink with yellow
and read throats.
Other names:
Brazil - Confrei
U.S. - Blackwort, boneset, bruisewort,
gum plant, healing herb, salsify, and
slippery root.
USES
Medicinal
Catarrh, headaches, skin conditions.
73
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Description
Erect-growing herb that can reach 3 feet
high covered with a prickly pubescence,
the plant develops flowers colored from
white to purple, a thick, externally black
root, and relatively large leaves.
USES
Medicinal
Bronchitis, catarrh, cystitis, diarrhea,
gonorrhea, hemorrhoids, psoriasis, skin
sores, skin disorders, stomach ulcers,
syphilis, urinary incontinence.
USES
Medicinal
Bleeding,
disturbances,
ulcers.
Religious/Magical
Orisha worship
Belongs to Babalu Aye, Odudua.
contusions,
digestive
internal
inflammations,
COPAL
(Icical Copal)
CONTRAYERBA
(Flaveria repanda)
Other names:
Cuba - Copal, negracuba, canelillo.
Kongo Nyimbo, Guaria
Lukumi Ewe Gbegbe
Other names:
Cuba - Yerba de la vieja
Description
Common weed that grows in sandy or
calcareous soils. Reaches up to 1 ft. tall,
multiple branches, dentate leaves and
very small yellow flowers.
Description
Indigenous tree with rose/white wood.
Found in wet, acid forests. Grows up to 30
ft. The branches are cylindrical; leaves are
large. Produces flowers in short racemes.
The fruit is ovoid.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Dysentery, gastrointestinal ailments.
Medicinal
Tension, nervousness.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Iwori Meji.
COPAIBA
(Copaifera officcinalis)
Other names:
Cuba - Capalba, blsamo de copaiba,
palo
de aceite.
Kongo Monchunto
Lukumi - Enenen
U.S. - Jesuit's Balsam
COPALILLO DEL MONTE

(Thouinia nervosa)
Other names:
Cuba - Copalillo del monte, Negracuba,
Canelillo.
Kongo Nyimbo
Lukumi Boru Fefe
Description
A well branched tropical tree that grows up
to 90 feet in height. It has pinnate leathery
leaves and blossoms are borne in whitish
racemes. The fruit is a coriaceous legume
containing a single seed. It is harvested by
tapping or drilling holes into the wood of
the
trunk and collecting the resin that drips
out, much like rubber trees are tapped.
Description
Tall indigenous tree. Wood is hard,
compact, heavy and fine grain; light
yellow/red, lateral roots.
USES
Medicinal
Tension headaches, stomach cramps.
74
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya, Olokun.
Ritual baths to attract good fortune.
Burned with incense to expel evil

spirits and banish negativity.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orunmila, Oya.
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Otrupon, Ika
Iroso.
COPETUDA / MARYGOLD
(Calendula officinalis)
COQUITO AFRICANO / KOLA NUT

(Cola acuminata)
Other names:
Cuba - Cola, Kola
Dominican Republic - Palo de col
Jamaica Bissy
Lukumi Kola
Puerto Rico - Nuez de cola, colero, kola
U.S. - Kola nut, goora-nut, kola, kola nut
Other names:
Cuba - Flor o clavel muerto o de Indias
Mexico - Cempoajochitl
U.S. Calendula
Description
Annual plant related to sunflower, 1 to 2
feet high and hairy, with oblong, entire,
thick leaves. The flowers are large heads
with yellow or orange rays.
Description
A tree from 40 to 60 feet high, somewhat
resembling the common chestnut tree.
The trunk is erect, smooth, and cylindrical.
The bark is green and thick. The leaves
are alternate, entire, smooth, green, and
oblong-acuminate. The flowers are
greenish-yellow or white and purple at the
margins of the petals. The fruit is
composed of follicles, containing from 1 to
10 oblong obtuse seeds.
USES
Medicinal
Toothaches,
earaches,
irregularity, intestinal worms.
menstrual
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
For cleansings and purification of

persons and the household.
USES
Medicinal
Cardiac
debility,
cardiac
irritability,
conditions of the ears, chronic diarrhea,
digestive complaints, hysteria, migraine,
nervous depression, neuralgia of debility
neurasthenia, seasickness, vomiting of
pregnancy.
COPEY / AUTOGRAPH TREE

(Clusia rosea)
Other names:
Cuba - Balsamo cimarrn.
Lukumi - Yana
Panama, Puerto Rico - Cupey
U.S. Pitch apple
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Odua.
For rituals, ceremonies and amulets.
Description
Evergreen tree. Grows on hills and
riverbanks; reaches up to 35 ft. The bark
is smooth; leaves are green, obovate, very
leathery and tough. In flower during the
summer; presenting showy pink and white
flowers. The wood is reddish brown.
CORALILLO / CORAL VINE

(Antigonon leptopus)
Other names:
Cuba - Coralillo, coralillo rosado
Haiti - Belle mexicaine
U.S. Chinese love vine
USES
Medicinal
Colds, infectious diseases, rheumatic
pains and aches, rheumatism, stomach
ulcers.
Description
Vine that supports itself by tendrils and
grows virtually anywhere. The leaves are
green, pointed and heart-shaped. The
flowers are small, white or rose pink
75
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Osa, Osa Otura.
For amulets.
CORAZON DE PALOMA / RAUWOLFIA

(Rauwolfia salicifolia)
Other names:
Cuba(Oriente) - Corazn de paloma.
(La Habana) - Wallenia laurifolia
Casmagua.
Lukumi Okan'jele
CORALILLO BLANCO / CHRISTMASS

VINE
(Porana paniculata)
Description
Shrub growing usually found growing
among pine trees. The fruit has the shape
of a dove's hear.
Other names:
Kongo - Yuye
Lukumi Cueyen
USES
Description
Climbing plant, originally from India. It's a
vigorous grower, reaching up to 30 ft.
long; leaves are oval heart shaped. In
winter, this plant is full of numerous small
white flowers. The fruit is a globule
capsule, very small.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
Correlating Odu: Iroso Meji.
Purification
baths
negativity.
to
banish
USES
CORDOBAN / MOSES IN THE
CRADDLE
(Rhoeo discolor)
Medicinal
Torpid tumors.
Other names:
Cuba - Cordobn, Zapatillo, Amor y cellos,
Barquito
Kongo - Nrio
Lukumi Peregun pupa
Puerto Rico Sangria, Sangrinaria
U.S. - Oyster Plant
Religious/Magical
Orisha worship

CORALILLO ROSADO /
CONFEDERATE VINE
(Antigonon leptopus)
Description
Perennial found in cultivated grounds and
pinelands, forming a dense cover. Short,
stout stems; forms clumps by offshoots.
The leaves are spreading, erect, dark
green and yellow stripes above, pale
purple underneath. The flowers are small,
white.
Other names:
Cuba - Coralillo rosado, coralillo
El Salvador - Bejuco de colacin
Haiti - Belle mexicaine
Mexico - San Miguelito, hierba de Santa
Rosa, Fulminosa, Corona, Bellisima
Description - See Coralillo
USES
USES
Medicinal
Asthma, catarrh, respiratory
rubella typhoid fever.
Medicinal
Alcoholism, hangover.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oya and Ayao.
76
ailments,
CORONA DE NOVIA/LEMON VINE

(Pereskia aculeata)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Oya.
Correlating Odu: Oshe Ofun.
Other names:
Cuba - Grosellero de la Florida, guinda,
tomate americano.
CORONA DE LA REINA
(Euphorbia antiquorum)
Description
Cultivated plant; scented white flowers,
the fruit an acrid and yellow peapod.
Description
Shrub resembling a cactus, thick stems,
no leaves and large needles.
USES
Medicinal
Inflammation, sore, syphilis.
USES
Medicinal
Ear ailments.
CORONILLA / ROUNDLEAF SPURGE

(Euphorbia serpens)
COROJO / OIL PAM

(Acreemia crispa)
Description
Annual herb with glabrous stems and
leaves; leaves gray-green, very small,
entire, and opposite; stipules united into a
triangular scale-like structure often lobed
or fringed at the tip; and involucres with
rather conspicuous white petal-like
appendages. In flower July- October;
fruiting July-October.
Other names:
Cuba Corojo de Jamaica
Kongo - Gesi
Lukumi Aobara, Epo Pupo
Puerto Rico Corojo, Grugru
Description
Indigenous palm common in calcareous,
rocky soils. Forms colonies and reaches
more than 25 ft. in height. The erect trunk
is narrow at both ends and thick in the
middle. The young trees are covered of
long dark needles, including the branches
and leaves. In flower during the spring.
The fruit is round one inch in diameter,
yellow outside, inside a solid nut, white,
with a taste similar to the common coconut
someone softer.
USES
Medicinal
Diarrhea menstrual problems, skin, slow
milk production in nursing mothers, tumor.
CRESTA DE GALLO COCKSCOMB
(Celosia argentea/celosia cristata)
Other names:
Brazil - Crista de galo
Cuba - Cresta de gallo, mirabel, moco de
pavo.
Lukumi Libbe kuko
U.S. Wool flower
USES
Medicinal
Gonorrhea, headaches,
menorrhagia.
inflammation,
Description
Ornamental plant 6 - 30 inches high, erect,
branching. Leaves lanceolate to ovate.
Small flowers form plumose or crested
spikes, red, yellow, orange, or pink.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Elegba.
Correlating Odu: Odi Okana, Osa Meji,
Ojuani Iwori, Ojuani Osa.
For rituals, ceremonies, amulets.
To condiment offerings for the Orishas.
Rites of Palo
77
Dalia Quiros-Moran
flowers are without odor and of varying

hues. The tree is parasitic, and will attach
itself to other plants by tuberous
processes on its roots.
USES
Religious/Magical
For courage.
USES
CROTON
(Codiaeum variegatum)
Medicinal
Fevers, venereal diseases.
Other names:
Cuba - Croto
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ofun Ika.
Rites of Palo
The root burned as an incense to banish
negativity and attract good.
Note: the black cuaba variety has
destructive properties.
Description
Evergreen shrub with alternate, simple
leaves mottled with white, yellow, or red;
flowers white.
USES
Medicinal
Stomach acidity.
CUBANICU: Arabo de Piedra
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba.
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Osa, Osa Otura.
Rites of Palo
For Nkisi rituals.
Planted outside the house for

protection.
Ritual baths to banish negativity.
CUABARI
Other names:
Cuba - Ambia.
USES
Medicinal
Nervous conditions.
CRUZ DE CARAVACA: Cardn.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
CUABA / WHITE SANTAL

(Amyris balsamifera)
CUAJANI / WEST INDIE

LAURELCHERRY
(Prunus occidentalis)
Other names:
Cuba - Cuaba blanca, cuabilla, cuaba de
monte, palo guachinango, cambiavoz.
Dominican Republic - Guaconejo, palo de
teja
Haiti - Bois chandelle, Bwa Shandl Vt
Jamaica Torchwood
Kongo - Inkita, nkunia bondan sua
Lukumi - Loaso
Mexico - Limoncillo
Puerto Rico - Tella
U.S. - Balsam amyris, Balsam torchwood
Venezuela Tigua
Other names:
Cuba - Cuajan, cajuan macho, almendro,
juba
Dominican
RepublicAlmendro,
almendrito,
almendrn, membrillo.
Haiti - Amandier a grandes feuilles
Jamaica - Prune tree
Kongo Faere
Lukumi - Maddeteo
Puerto Rico - Almendrilo
Description
A small tree growing to a height of 20 or
30 feet, Found in coastal areas and sandy
soils. The leaves are opposite, smooth,
glaucous on under surface, oval or
lanceolate in shape. Its numerous small
78
Description
Tree reaching over 60 ft. high and 4 ft.
diameter. The leaves, thick bark and fruit
release a strong bitter almond scent.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Osa Ika.
For cleansing rituals.
USES
Medicinal
Cough, gripe, asthma, skin rashes, itch.
CULANTRILLO DE POZO /
MAIDENHAIR FERN
(Adiantum tenerum)
CUAJANI HEMBRA: Almendrillo

CUAJINCILLO: Almendrillo
Other names:
Brazil Avenca
Haiti - Adi-yant'
Kongo Vititi Masa, Ngoso
Lukumi Kotonio, Ofi, necenten
Mexico Capilaria de Mexico
CUCARACHA / WONDERING JEW

(Zebrina pendula)
Other names:
Colombia - Panamea
Kongo Kienguene bias mamba
Lukumi - Ayan
Mexico Yerba de Pollo
Venezuela Cohitre morado
Description
A small evergreen fern found throughout
in moist forests. It grows up to 1 ft high,
growing in stands from its creeping
rhizome with leaves up to 2 ft long.
Description
Creeping and pendulous, succulent herb.
The obovate leaves are glistening and
multicolored above and purple below. The
surface colors may be green and silver
edged with pink. The small flowers are
purplish.
USES
Medicinal
Bronchitis, colds, coughs, gallstones, hair
loss, heartburn, menstrual difficulties
respiratory
problems,
rheumatism,
snakebites,
sour
stomach,
urinary
disorders
USES
Medicinal
Colitis, kidney
problems, warts.
stones,
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun and Ogun.
Correlating Odu: Ofun Odi.
menstruation
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya, Oya.
Correlating Odu: Iroso Ejionle.
CULANTRO / FITWEED
(Eryngium foetidum)
Other names:
Lukumi Ewe Kotonio
Other names:
Brazil - Chicria
Cuba - Culantro, culantro del pas,
cimarrn,
sabanero o de Cartagena, Yerba de Sapo.
Kongo - Bianki
Lukumi Ishoro
U.S. Long Coriander, Coriander
Description
Common name given to various plants
from the genus Adiantum and/or
Asplenium. They are common ferns found
in wetlands and shady locations.
Description
An annual tropical herb that grows best
under moist shaded conditions near
cultivated areas. It has a pungent odor;
the
CUERNECILLO: Arbol del Cuerno

CULANTRILLO
79
Dalia Quiros-Moran
leaves have toothed margins and they

grow in a basal rosette pattern. The fruit is
round and covered with rounded
protrusions.
upper surface shining. Inflorescences

multi-flowered, in racemes reduced to a
few axillary flowers. Flowers 4-6, white;
capsule dry, brown, globose to oblong;
seeds numerous, minute, crescentshaped.
USES
Medicinal
Constipation, diabetes, diarrhea, flu,
fevers, irregular menstruation, vomiting.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Babalu Aye.
Correlating Odu: Okana Oshe.

Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya and Oya.
Offerings for the Orishas.
CUNDEAMOR / BITTER MELON
(Momordica balsamina)
CURAMAGEY/ CATESBY'S VINE

(Uretiches lutea)
Other names:
Brazil Melao de San Caetano
Cuba Cundeamor
Lukumi Ewe eyimi, ewe abonla
Puerto Rico - Cundeamore
U.S. Balsam pear
Other names:
Cuba - Curamagey amarillo
Lukumi Iwo
Puerto Rico Barbero amarillo
U.S. Wild Unction
Description
Indigenous vine found in rocky areas and
calcareous soils. The stem reaches up to
2 inches thick, somewhat woody. The
leaves are opposite, lanceolate, dark
green above, pale green underneath.
Large flowers appearing in July, seeds in
February.
Description
A monoecious climber with dark green,
deeply lobed leaves. The flowers are
yellow and the fruits are oblong and lumpy
with a light green to greenish white, waxy
skin. The seeds are small and black.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Diabetes, fever, gastrointestinal infections,
hypertension,
skin
conditions
stomachache
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun, Eshu.
Rites of Palo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Babalu Aye, Inle, Ogun.
Correlating Odu: Odi Otrupon, Osa Meji,
Obara Eyioko, Irete Untelu.
To pack amulets.
CURA, MATA O VUELVE LOCO /

MILKWEED
(Asclepias curassavica)
Other names:
Brazil Ceca Olho,Ipecacuana falsa,
Official de sala
Cuba - Flor de la calentura.
Haiti - Zb-Man-Boivin, Herbe--Ouatte,
Calypso, Ti-Kadri, Zeb-Papiyon, Quadrille
Mexico Margarita
Panama Mal casada, Nio muerto
Peru Cachumeca
Puerto Rico Algodoncillo, Algodon de
Mariposas
U.S. Blood flower
CUPIDO LA UNA / GINORIA

(Ginoria americana)
Other names:
Cuba - Clavelina, Rosa de ro.
Lukumi - Mamboti
Description
Glabrous tree or shrub with opposite,
lanceolate to narrowly elliptical leaves,
80
gray/green with scaly linear leaves. In the

fall produces 6" erect spikes with funnel
shaped blue or violet flowers.
Description
Perennial herb, up to 3 feet tall, 3 feet
spread. Reddish orange and yellow
flowers in umbels spring and fall.
USES
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Odudua, and Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Ofun Ogunda, Osa
Ogunda, Oshe Meji, Oshe Iwori, Ofun
Ogunda, Otrupon Yeku, Otura Niko.
Medicinal
Aches, dysentery, fevers, gonorrhea,
leprosy, leucorrhea, pile, poison, toxins,
and wart.
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
For rituals.
According to how is used, it can cure, kill
of drive someone insane.
CURBANA: Canela de Monte
CURABOCA / STRONGBACK
(Bourreria succulenta)
Other names:
Cuba Ateje de Costa, Cateicito, Frutica
de Catey, Raspalengua de costa, Roble
negro
Puerto Rico Palo de vaca, roble guayo
Description
Tree that reaches up to 18 ft. tall. It has
rounded leaves long with a somewhat
weeping
growth
habit.
Especially
noticeable when laden with clusters of
orange fruit. Clusters of small, fragrant
white flowers.
USES
Medicinal
Buccal sores, cold, flu.
CURAVARA: Aceitunillo
CURUJEY / BALL MOSS
(Tillandsia Recurvata)
Other names:
Cuba - Guataca de burro.
Puerto Rico Nidos de Gundulen
U.S. - Air plant
Description
An inconspicuous plant that grows on
other plants but does not steal their
nutrients. Instead it gets its water from the
air. It grows in a globular clump. It is
81
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
Medicinal
Skin eruptions and other skin problems,
sunstroke.
DAGAME / LANCEWOOD
(Calcophyllum candidissimum)
Other names:
Colombia - Alazano, guayabo alazano,
guayabo colorado.
Costa Rica - Salamo, Madroo.
El Salvador - Salamo.
Guatemala - Salamo, Madroo, palo de
peine.
Honduras - Madroo, Solano.
Mexico - Camarn, palo camarn.
Nicaragua Espino madroo
Panama - Alazano, guayabo alazano,
harino.
Puerto Rico - Dgame, dgame.
U.S. - Lemonwood.
Venezuela - Araguato, betun.
DAMIANA / TURNERA
(Turnera diffusa)
Other names:
Cuba - Rompecamisa macho
Haiti - Oreg mawon
Description
Densely branched dwarf shrub, the
branches clothed with tiny gray aromatic
leaves. Small brilliant yellow flowers.
USES
Medicinal
Cold, diabetes, dysentery, dyspepsia,
headache, hormonal imbalance, infection,
liver ailments, nervous depression,
nervous disorders, pain, poor appetite,
stomach ache.
Description
Tree abundant in calcareous soils.
Reaches great heights and it can be
readily distinguished for its erect, smooth,
pale red trunk. Wood hard, heavy and
compact; color uniform light yellow.
Flowers small.
Religious/Magical
DATIL/ DATE PALM
(Phoenix Dactylifera)
USES
Medicinal
Fever, infertility.
Other names:
Cuba Palma Datil
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Ojuani, Oshe
Otura.
Rites of Palo
For ritual and amulets.
Description
Tall evergreen un-branched palm growing
up to 50 ft. The trunk is surrounded from
the ground upward in spiral pattern with
the base of earlier formed leaves. The
leaves are large, alternate. Flowers are
borne in bunches at the top of the tree.
The fruit is a drupe and has one seed,
varying in size, shape, color and quality of
flesh. Unripe dates are green in color,
maturing to yellow, then reddish-brown
when fully ripe.
DAGUILLA
(Lagetta lintearea)
Description
Indigenous tree reaching 30 ft. high and 2
ft. wide. The flowers are white, produced
in terminal racemes. In flower April and
May; the inner bark is elastic, mesh like.
Found in mountainous areas.
USES
Medicinal
Colds, respiratory ailments.
82
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango.
Correlating Odu: Otura Irete, Odi Otura.
DIVIDIVI
(Caesalpinia coriaria)
Other names:
Colombia - Libilibi
Costa Rica - Nacascol
Cuba - Dibidibi, guatapan
Dominican Republic -Dividivi, guastapan
Guatemala -Nacascolote
Mexico - Cascalote
Nicaragua - Nacasolo
Panama - Agallo
Venezuela - Guatapn, guatapanare
DIAMELA / ARABIAN JASMINE

(Jasminum sambac)
Other names:
Cuba - Jazmn diamela, Jazmn de la
India, Jazmn de Arabia, Jazmn de
Francia
Puerto Rico Jazmn Oloroso
Description
An evergreen bush; thick, glossy, dark
green, oblong leaves about one and one
half inches long and a profusion of very
double, fragrant, white flowers about an
inch and a half in diameter. Blooms from
June to September.
Description
A tree that grows to approximately 30 feet
tall. The trunk and branches are gnarled,
with gray bark. Leaves alternate; leaflets
numerous, regularly nearly touching to
overlapping; flowers are small, in terminal
clusters, white or yellow, pea-like,
inconspicuous, very fragrant. Fruit are
small curved, dished, or twisted flat pod
with rounded ends.
USES
Medicinal
Cold, eye infections, headache, insomnia,
skin, sore.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
For love amulets.
Ritual
purification
baths
and
cleansings.
Planted in the household heightens

the energy within and promotes
tranquility.
Medicinal
Colic, diarrhea, gangrene, heart, pile.
DORADILLA / RESURRECTION FERN
(Polypodium polypodiodes)
Description
Fern that grows attached to trees in humid
woodlands, riverbanks, and swamps.
Prefers trees such as Buttonwoods,
Beauty leaf, Black olive; the leaves are
evergreen, leathery, stem is skinny,
creeping along the bark of large trees.
DIENTE DE LEON / DANDELION

(Taraxacum officinalis)
Other names:
Mexico - Amargon
USES
Description
A common perennial plant worldwide. The
plant grows to a height of about 12 inches.
Leaves oblong, irregularly dentate; grow in
a rosette from the milky taproot, which
sends up one or more naked flower stems,
each terminating in a single yellow flower.
Medicinal
Liver ailments.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Oyekun Iwori, Irete Odi.
USES
Medicinal
Eczema, liver, gallbladder, hepatitis and
other diseases of the liver, joint problems
kidney, poor digestion, water retention.
83
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
DORMIDERA / SENSITIVE PLANT
(Mimosa pudica)
Medicinal
Bruises, corns, gout, herpes, furuncles,
and felons, skin diseases, sores, sprains,
swellings.
Other names:
Cuba - Vergonsoza, Sensitiva, Morivivi,
Maldita
Guatemala Cierra tus puertas
Haiti - Kapris, Honteuse, Zb-a-manzl,
honteuse-femel, Marie-honte
Mexico Sensitiva, Vergonzosa
Description
Short-lived evergreen sub-shrub. It is
grown for its curiosity valuethe fern-like
leaves close up and droop when touched,
usually re-opening within minutes. It has
prickly stems and small, fluffy, ball-shaped
pink flowers in summer. It grows to a
height and spread of around 3 ft.
USES
Medicinal
Dysentery, eczema,
insomnia, sore.
fever,
headache,
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Odi Osa, Otura Ika.
To dominate.

DULCAMARA / NIGHTSHADE
(Solanum dulcamara)
Other names:
U.S. - Bittersweet nightshade, bittersweet,
bittersweet herb, bittersweet stems,
bittersweet twigs, blue nightshade, fever
twig, garden nightshade, nightshade,
nightshade vine, scarlet berry, staff vine,
violet bloom, woody,
Description
A perennial woody vine found in moist
areas, around houses, and among hedges
and thickets. The shrubby, thumb-thick,
ashy-green, climbing stern can reach a
length of up to 10 feet. The dark green (or
purplish when young) leaves are alternate
and variable in shape. The purple, starshaped flowers appear in clusters from
May to August. The fruit is a scarlet, bitter
berry that hangs on the vine for months
after the leaves have fallen.
84
Description
Annual plant found in wet places specially
paddy fields. It is in flower in August.
EBANO / EBONY
(Diospyrus Ebenus)
USES
Other names:
Cuba - Zapote negro
Medicinal
Anemia, athlete's foot, catarrh, dermatitis,
diphtheria, dropsy, eczema, jaundice, liver
complaints, premature graying of the hair,
scorpion stings, tooth loss, ulcers,
wounds.
Description
Ebony is the common name for the tree
genus Diospyrus that contains some 300
species. The ones most associated with
the black colored rare wood are African
ebony, East Indian ebony, Macassar
ebony and Nigerian ebony. It is believed
that ebony gets its deep black color from
deposits of tannins. A hard gum fills the
heartwood fibers making it black and
brittle.
EMBELEZO / CAPE PLUMBAGO

(Plumbago capensis)
Other names:
Cuba - Embeleso, azulejo, jazmn azul,
jazminillo, velesa.
U.S. - Leadwort
USES
Description
Cultivated ornamental shrub to 6 feet tall,
10 feet wide. Blooms throughout the year,
with denser blooms from March to
November. Flowers vary in color from
white to intense blue.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
To make attributes and paraphernalia
EBANO CARBONERO
(Maba crassinervis)
USES
Other names:
Cuba - Ebano real, manati, tagua-tagua,
sapote negro
Medicinal
Warts.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun, Oshosi.
Correlating Odu: Obara Eyioko.
For love amulets.
Description
Erect, indigenous tree reaching up to 7 ft.
Found in arid soils, particularly coastal
areas. Wood black, compact, hard, heavy
can be polished. Leaves ovate, elliptical,
glossy, color dark green, light green
underneath. Small flowers.
EMPANADILLA / TICK TREFOIL

(Desmodium Canum)
USES
Medicinal
Skin.
Other names:
Brazil Amor do Campo
Cuba Amor Seco
Puerto Rico - Zarzabacoa
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Ofun Ika.
ECLIPTA BLANCA / ECLIPTA
(Eclipta alba)
Other names:
Puerto Rico Hierba del Tajo
85
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Description
Perennial legume with upright and
creeping stems that root at the nodes.
Leaves on upright stems are lance shaped
and often have a white mark along the
midrib; those on trailing stems have fewer
markings and are oval or round.
USES
Medicinal
Cough,
diarrhea,
earache,
fever,
hemorrhoids,
indigestion,
kidney
problems, painful menstruation, postchildbirth recovery, rheumatism, swollen
body parts, tiredness, and vaginal
infections.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Odua.
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Odi
Medicinal
Cystitis, fever, liver ailments, parturition.
ENCINA / SAND LIVE OAK
(Quercus virginaria)
ESCOBA AMARGA / FALSE RAGWEED

(Parthenium hysterophorus)
Other names:
Cuba - Encino
U.S. - Live Oak
Other names:
Cuba - Escoba amarga, confitillo,
artemisilla.
Haiti - Absent bata, Balai Amer, Absinthe
marron, Zb-a-Pian
U.S. - Parthenium weed, parthenium,
White top
Description
Small shrubby tree. Grows individually or
in thickets with other shrubby oaks. In
longleaf pine forests, this tree can reach
the height of moderate to fairly large trees.
The bark is dark red-brown, up to 1 inch
thick, somewhat furrowed, and separating
into small scales. It grows on sites having
relatively deep, infertile sands.
Description
Coarse, upright, annual plant growing 1240 inches high. Each flower head consists
of 5 white ray flowers and numerous disk
flowers. The leaves are 4-8 inches long
and are deeply lobed.
USES
Medicinal
Diarrhea, dysentery, eye, nasal and
urinary hemorrhages, hemorrhoids, sores,
varicose ulcers, whites.
USES
Medicinal
Backache,
headache,
cold,
chest
ailments, dysentery, eczema, fever,
leprosy, neuralgia, paludism, pimples,
rashes, rheumatism, skin ulcers, tumor,
pimple.
ENCOSPE: Caobilla de Sabana.

ESCABIOSA / GOATWEED
(Capraria biflora)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba and Babalu Aye.
Correlating Odu: Odi Ogunda, Obara
Iroso, Okana Iroso, Osa Ogbe, Ofun
Otrupo.
Rites of Palo
Abakua Society
For ritual baths and cleansings to

banish illness.
For purification cleansings of the

household.
Other names:
Cuba - Esclaviosa, majuito, magiro,
viuda.
Haiti - Te-peyi, Th des Antilles, Th de
sant, Th muray, Th des Anglais,
Capraire
Description
Common herb. Grows in calcareous soils
and coastal areas; oval lanceolate toothed
leaves.
86
ESPARTILLO / SMUTGRASS
(Sporobolus indicus)
ESCOBA CIMARRONA / ANGELSTEM

(Abutilom trisulcatum)
Other names:
Cuba - Espartillo, alambrillo, pajilla, pajn.
Lukumi Iye eran
U.S. West Indian drop seed
Other names:
U.S. Indian Mallow
Description
Evergreen shrub. Grows to 9 ft. In flower
from April to September.
Description
Coarse grass. Grows to a height of 5 ft.
The seed head resembles a rat's tail. The
branches at the bottom of the seed head
often droop away from the central stem.
The seeds, which are about the size of
sugar grains, form at the ends of each
floret. They are initially white and turn
yellow-brown at maturity.
USES
Medicinal
Asthma.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Eshu.
A branch placed behind the door of

the household will expel evil spirits.
USES
Medicinal
Tired feet.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Oshosi.
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Osa, Otura Irete.
Rites of Palo
ESPANTA MUERTO / ECLIPTA

(Eclipta Alba)
Other names:
Brazil Agria Do Brejo, Erva De Botao,
Herva Botao
Lukumi Aberinkunlo
Panama - Kongolala
ESPIGELIA / PINKROOT
(Spigelia anthelmia)
Description
A creeping and moisture-loving herb; it
has a short, flat or round stem and small
white flowers on a long stalk. It grows 3"
tall; the leaves are opposite and lanceshaped.
Other names:
Cuba - Yerba lombricera.
U.S. Worm bush, West Indian Pinkroot
Description
Annual weed, growing up to 2 ft.; the stem
is scarcely branched, with short stalked,
feather lobed leaves set like a whorl. The
spikes with small purple flowers come out
of the middle of the whorl. The flowers are
on one side of the spike. The fruit is a two
lobed, capsule with warty seeds.
USES
Medicinal
Anemia, asthma, dysentery, eye diseases,
and liver cirrhosis.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Osa Meji, Osa Ogbe,
Irete Untelu, and Irete Otura.
To banish negativity and evil spirits

from persons and the household.
USES
Medicinal
Congestion, headache, intestinal worms,
neuralgia, pain.
87
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
For ritual purification baths
To re-unite lovers than have grown

apart.
Description
Coastal shrub found in arid, calcareous
soils and hills. The leaves have needles at
the tip; orange flowers.
USES
Medicinal
Blood
toxins,
toothaches.
ESPINACA / SPINACH
(Spinacea oleracea)
Description
Annual crop plant, of the goosefoot family,
grown for its nutritious and savory leaves.
fever,
ailments,
and
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba
Rites of Palo
USES
Medicinal
Arthritis, bowel,
toxins.
eye
inflammation,
ESQUENATO / LEMON GRASS

(Cymbopogon citratus)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Other names:
Cuba -Caa de limon, caa de la Meca.
Description
Plant growing in dense clumps up to 6 feet
in diameter and has leaves up to 3 feet
long. Found in sandy, well-drained soils.
ESPINILLO / JERUSALEM THORN

(Parkinsonia aculeata)
Other names:
Cuba - Espinillo, junco marino, palo de
rayo.
U.S. Mexican Palo Verde
USES
Medicinal
Asthma, cold, cough, dyspepsia, fever, flu,
malaria, rheumatism, leprosy.
Description
Deciduous, thorny tree, up to 30 feet tall.
Green trunk. The leaves are narrow, long.
Produces masses of scented yellow
flowers in late spring.
ESTAFISAGRA / STAVESACRE
(Delphinium staphisagria)
Description
Biennial/Perennial plant growing to 3 ft.
Found in field verges and in scrub, on hot
dry soils. It is in flower from May to
August. The flowers are greenish-white.
USES
Medicinal
Epilepsy, fever.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Eshu and Oshosi.
USES
Medicinal
Headache, herpes, injuries, itches, lice,
skin rashes, toothache, warts.
ESPINO: Bayoneta
ESPUELA DE CABALLERO
(Jacquinia Aculeata)
ESTEFANOTIS / BRIDAL BOUQUET

(Stephanotis floribunda)
Other names:
Cuba - Espuela de Rey, Rosetillo
Haiti - Bwa Band
Description
Twining vigorous shrub, to 15 feet or
more;
88
leaves elliptic, abruptly pointed at apex,

thick, glossy, the fragrant flowers are
white, waxy.
USES
Medicinal
Flu and colds, respiratory conditions,
fever, paludism, throat irritation.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
Correlated Odu: Iroso Okana.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala, Ogun.
Correlating Odu: Irete Oshe.
Ground to dusting powder to ward off
disease.
For cleansing of persons and the

household to expel negativity.
ESTROPAJO / VEGETABLE SPONGE

(luffa luffa, lyoss)
Other names:
Brazil Bucha
Cuba Friega platos
Puerto Rico Esponja
Servilleta
de
EXTRAA ROSA / CHINA ASTER

(Callistephus hortensis)
Pobre,
Other names:
Cuba - Reina Margarita.
U.S. Annual Aster
Description
A running vine with rounded leaves. The
fruits are smooth and cylindrical shaped.
The length of the fruit is one to two feet.
Description
Cultivated half-hardy annual, heights
range from 6 inches to 3 feet. The leaves
are ovate, coarsely toothed. The flowers
are radiate, terminal on long stem, single
or double blossoms in blue, pink, white,
purple, creamy yellow, lavender, purple or
red, some with feathery flower heads.
USES
Medicinal
Eczema, hemorrhage, intestinal parasites.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala, Babalu Aye.
Correlated Odu: Ojuani Oshe, Okana Ika
and Okana Oshe.
For ritual baths and cleansings of

persons and the household for good
fortune.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship

fortune and prosperity.
EUCALIPTO
(Eucalyptus resinifera)
Other names:
Cuba - Eucalipto
U.S.- Red stringy bark, red-mahogany
eucalyptus, eucalyptus, eucalypt, red
mahogany.
Puerto Rico - Eucalipto medicinal.
Description
A tall tree with a rough persistent bark on
the trunk, but more or less deciduous on
the branches, the leaves are lanceolate,
the flowers grow in little clusters, yellowish
color.
89
Dalia Quiros-Moran
FLOR DE AGUA / WATER HYACINTH

(Eichornia azurea)
F
FIDEILLO: Bejuco de Fideos
Other names:
Cuba - Flor de Agua, jaboncillo de agua,
cola de pato, boniatillo de agua.
Kongo - Irituu
Lukumi - Ojogbo, tana fun fun
FILIGRANA/ BITTERBUSH
Other names:
Cuba - Filigrana, albahaca de sabana,
albahaquilla, travesera, trebolillo, verbena
morada y zanca de
grullo.
U.S. Florida Keys Thoroughwort
Description
Aquatic plant. Common
ponds, rivers and streams.
in
swamps,
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya, Obatala, Oshun, Inle.
Correlating Odu: Iwori Odi, Obara
Ogunda, Obara Ika, Osa Oshe.
Description
Aromatic plant, common in calcareous
hills.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango.
Correlating Odu: Ofun Irete.
FLOR DE LA CALENTURA: Cura Mata y

vuelve loco
FLOR DE MAR
FILIGRANA MORADA / AMERICAN

BEAUTYBERRY
(Callicarpa americana)
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
Other names:
Cuba - Verbena morada, Filigrana de
Mazorca
U.S. - French Mulberry, Mulberry, Dwarf
FLOR DE MARMOL
(Sedum monregalense)
Description
Evergreen shrub. Growing to 9 ft tall.
Leaves opposite and simple; oval-shaped,
with an acute apex; green and usually
glabrous above, paler and pubescent
below; flowers perfect and in sessile
clusters around the leaf nodes; lavender;
blue pink; fruit is a 4-pitted lavender-pink,
magenta, or violet drupe.
Other names:
Cuba -Blsamo turco, rosa de mrmol.
Description
Exotic plant forming a neat carpet of fresh
green leaves borne in whorls of four.
Creamy, white flowers.
USES
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha worship
Belongs to Odudua.
Medicinal
Chest ailments, colic, Dropsy, dysentery,
fevers stomach aches, malaria, and
rheumatism.
90
FLOR DE MAYO / LAELIA ANCEPS

(Laelia anceps)
FRAILECILLO CIMARRON / LOBED

CROTON
(Croton lobatus)
Description
Plants from the orchid family compact in
height, usually only 10-12 inches tall, with
a sprawling growth habit. The flowers are
2.5-3 inches, generally light lavender with
a darker lip and throat. Clusters of 2-6
blooms are borne on the end of a spike
reaching 3 feet.
Other names:
Dominican Republic Avellana Purgante
Puerto Rico Tuatilla
Venezuela Pio, Tartaro
Description
Indigenous plant, much smaller than the
"Belly-ache" bush, with similar leaves and
fruit.
USES
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
Medicinal
Erysipelas.
FLOR DE MUERTO / AFRICAN

MARIGOLD
(Tagetes erecta)
FRAILECILLO DE MONTE / BELLYACHE BUSH

(Jatropha gossypifolia)
Other names:
Brazil Rojao
Colombia Rueda de Arado
Cuba Clavelon, Copetuda, Copete
Other names:
Brazil - Pinho roxo
Cuba - Cardecillo de monte, tua-tua.
Lukumi Baisigue, paime
Description
Cultivated compact, erect plant, 12 to 14
inches tall; flowers to 3 1/2 inches across,
most flowers are doubles with flat or balllike flower heads; colors range from
primrose yellow through pumpkin-orange.
leaves are opposite, pinnately divided into
lanceolate segments with serrate margins,
aromatic (unpleasant odor for many
people).
Description
Evergreen shrub, up to 5 feet tall.
Brownish bark, whitish wood; leaves
alternate; small flowers, white petals (4),
very aromatic; oval shaped fruit, yellow,
fleshy with one almond like seed.
USES
Medicinal
Liver ailments.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
Medicinal
Chest ailments, stomach pains, venereal
diseases.
FRAMBOYAN / FLAMBOYANT
(Delonix regia)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun, Ogun.
Other names:
Arada - Adadase
Cuba Framboyn
Lukumi - Seke-Seke,
inaweko
U.S. - Poinciana Tree
FLOR DE UNA HORA: Altea

FLORIPUNDIO BLANCO: Arbol de la
Bibijagua
iggi
tambina,
Description
Tree often more that 30 feet high with
wide spreading branches from a domed
top. It has brown seedpods 2" long
resembling rezone strops.
91
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
USES
Medicinal
Rheumatism.
Medicinal
Bruise,
digestive
problems,
kidney
ailments, sores, intestinal parasites.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango and Oya.
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Eyioko, Otura
Irete.
In amulets to attract stability and

prosperity.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun, Yemaya.
Correlating Odu: Ofun Otrupo.
Rites of Palo

household for good fortune and to
expel negativity.
FRAMBUESA/RASPBERRY
(Rubus Idaeus)
Other names:
U.S. European Raspberry
FRIJOL CARITA / BLACKEYE PEA

(Vigna sinensis)
Description
Thorny plant growing up to 10 ft. high. The
leaves are alternate, with very fine prickles
or glandular hairs. Arching round branches
that are bristly hairy to slightly prickly and
reddish green. The flowers appear in June
and July; greenish, with very small white
petals. The fruit is juicy, red, multiple of
drupes.
Other names:
Cuba - Frijol carita, caupi criollo.
U.S. Cowpea
Description
A warm-season, annual, herbaceous
legume. Plant types are often categorized
as erect, semi-erect, prostrate (trailing), or
climbing. Leaves are smooth, dull to shiny.
Flowers are borne in multiple racemes on
8 to 20 in.; flower stalks pods are smooth,
6 to 10 in. long, cylindrical and somewhat
curved.
This plant originated in Africa. Its history
dates to ancient West African cereal
farming, 5 to 6 thousand years ago, where
it was closely associated with the
cultivation of sorghum and pearl millet.
USES
Medicinal
Blood toxins, eye ailments, kidney
ailments, skin conditions, and stomach
ailments.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Oshe Iroso.
USES
FRESCURA / ARTILLERLY PLANT

(Pilea microphylla)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
For rituals and ceremonies, and offerings
to the Orishas.
Other names:
Cuba - Frescura, lentejuela, maanita,
seorita, yerba del tejado
Puerto Rico Madreselva, Verdolaguilla,
Yerba de Vidrio
U.S. - Artillery Weed, Nettle,Gale of wind
Description
A small, prostrate herb with very small
fleshy leaves and tiny greenish female
flowers and pinkish, somewhat larger male
flowers. Gets its name from the way that
the stamens shoot out pollen. The pollen
shoots out in a tiny cloud, as if fired from a
miniature cannon.
92
FRIJOL NEGRO / BLACK BEAN

(Phaseolus vulgaris)
Description
Plant with trifoliate compound leaves;
somewhat showy, flowers; produces
elongate legumes (pods) that contain from
three to a dozen or more usually kidneyshaped seeds.
Description
A short-lived, fast-growing, woody, large
herb to 10 or 12 feet in height. All parts
contain latex. The hollow green or deep
purple trunk is straight and cylindrical with
prominent leaf scars. The leaves emerge
directly from the upper part of the stem in
a spiral on nearly horizontal petioles. The
five-petalled flowers are fleshy, waxy and
slightly fragrant. The pear-shaped fruit
generally weigh about 1 pound and have
yellow skin when ripe. The flesh is bright
orange or pinkish, with small black seeds
clustered in the center.
USES
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
For ritual and ceremonies.
Ritual cleansings
For offerings to the Orishas
Medicinal
Burns and scalds, constipation, corns,
dyspepsia, intestinal parasites, jaundice
nervous pains, piles, psoriasis, ringworm,
sea nettle stings, syphilis tumors, warts.
Other names:
Brazil - Feijao
Haiti - Pwa nouris
U.S. Black turtle bean
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oya, Inle.
Correlating Odu: Irete Kana, Obara Osa.
For purification rituals.
FRIJOLILLO
(Hebestigma cubense)
Other names:
Cuba - Frijolillo, guam pin, pin de
costa, juravaina.
FRUTABOMBA MACHO
USES
Description
Indigenous tree reaching up to 40 ft. in
height. Leaves green, glossy, lighter
underneath. Flowers light pink, five petals.
Medicinal
Intestinal parasites, menstrual pain.
USES
FULMINANTE / WILD PETUNIA

(Ruellia germiniflora)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Ogun
For amulets
Other names:
Cuba - Fulminante, triquitraque, salta
perico.
Description
Perennial herbaceous plant that can reach
35 inches in height and have few
branches. The leaf arrangement is
opposite. Each leaf is entire. The flowers
are lavender sometimes violet. Blooms
first appear in late spring and continue into
late summer.
FRUTA DE PAN: Arbol del pan.

FRUTABOMBA / PAPAYA
(Carica Papaya)
Other names:
Arada Yipe, Sanasse
Argentina - Mann
Cuba Papaya
Haiti - Papay
Jamaica - Pawpaw
Mexico - Meln Zapote
Puerto Rico - Lechosa
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Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
The seeds are used to prepare protection
amulets.
FUMARIA / FUMITORY
(Fumaria officialis)
Description
Small and slender herb, with weak,
straggling,
or
climbing
stems,
decompounded leaves, and clusters or
spikes of small flowers of a pinkish hue,
topped with purple, or more rarely, white.
The leaves have no odor, but taste bitter
and saline. The plant flowers almost
throughout the summer in fields, gardens,
and on banks, and in ditches, spreading
with great rapidity.
USES
Medicinal
Eruptive
diseases,
obstructions, milk-crust.
leprosy,
liver
94
Description
An evergreen bush up to five feet in height
that produces dark green, oblong leaves
and a profusion of greenish flowers, which
open only at night, are intensely fragrant.
The flowers are followed by oblong white
berries.
G
GALAN DE DIA / DAY JESSAMINE
(Cestrum diurum)
Other names:
Colombia - Sauco tintoreo
Cuba - Galn de da, jazmn de da.
Jamaica - Wild jasmine, ink-bush
Kongo - Montoo
Lukumi Orufin, otoiro
Mexico - Juan de Noche
Dominican Republic Rufiana
U.S. - Day cestrum
Venezuela - Dama de da
USES
Medicinal
Epilepsy, hysteria, nervousness, spasm.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala and Orunmila.
Correlating Odu: Obara Iroso.


protection
Description
An upright growing plant up to ten feet
high that produces numerous willowy
branches, bright green, lanceolate leaves,
and clusters of small fragrant, tubular,
white flowers, which are followed by
succulent, purple berries.
GAMBUTERA / ALEXANDER GRASS

(Brachiaria plantaginea)
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
For purification cleansings of the

household to attract good fortune,
heightening the energy within and
promoting tranquility.
Other names:
Brazil - Capim-marmelada, papu
Cuba - Gambute, bambutera, gambustera.
Description
Annual weed with prostrate, creeping
smooth stems, rooting at nodes. Leaf
blades usually smooth, flat and wide. Leaf
sheath often with hairs on margin. Seed
head branches spreading like "signal
flags" with seed on underside. Found in
turf and disturbed habitats.
GALAN DE NOCHE/NIGHT BLOOMING

CESTRUM
(Cestrum nocturnum)
Other names:
Costa Rica - Zorrillo.
Cuba - Galn de noche, Fedora, Jazmn
de Noche
Dominican Republic - Rufiana, jazmn de
noche.
El Salvador - Palo hediondo.
Guatemala - Galn de noche, reina de la
noche.
Haiti - Lilas de nuit, jasmin de nuit.
Kongo - Dondoko
Lukumi - Orufirin, Elube
Mexico - Huele de noche, hierba
hedionda, galn de tarde.
Philippines - Dama de noche
Puerto Rico - Dama de noche.
U.S. -Night cestrum.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba.
Placed inside
protection.
the
home
GANDUL / PIGEON PEA

(Cajanus indicus)
Other names:
Costa Rica Frijolillo
Cuba - Gandua
Haiti - Pwa Kongo
95
for
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Nicaragua - Garbanzo falso

Panama - Frijol de palo
Venezuela - Chicharros, quinconcho
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Eshu.
To disturb the enemy,
Description
Perennial woody shrub, mostly grown as
an annual for the legume; stems strong,
woody, to 12 ft. tall, freely branching; root
system deep. Leaves alternate, trifoliolate;
flowers
multi-colored
with
yellow
predominant, red, purple, orange occur in
streaks or fully cover the dorsal side of the
flag, Pods compressed, 29-seeded.
Seeds separated from each other in the
pod by slight depressions.
GENCIANA DE LA TIERRA / WHITE

HEAD
(Enicostema verticillatum)
Other names:
Cuba - Genciana de la Tierra, de Costa
Kongo - Lonlo
Lukumi - Iyendere
Description
Perennial herb. Sessile lanceolate leaves.
The white flowers are arranged in clusters.
The fruits are capsule, globose, one-celled
with many small, pale, ridged ovate seeds.
USES
Medicinal:
Bladder stones bronchitis,
eczema, gripe, and pneumonia.
coughs,
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha worship
For cleansings and healing rituals
Offerings to the Orishas
Medicinal
Digestion problems, rheumatic pain.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
GARDENIA: Jazmn del Cabo
GENJIBRE / GINGER
(Zinginber officinale)
GATEADO / BREADNUT
(Brosimun alicastrum)
Other names:
Brazil - Gengibre Aafroa
Haiti - Gingembre, Gengamb'
Lukumi Ewe atale
Other names:
Cuba - Gaimaro, Ramon de Mejico.
Guatemala, Honduras - Maseco
Mexico - Ramon, Ojite, Capomo,
Juandiego, Apomo.
Nicaragua - Ochoche.
Description
A perennial root which creeps and
increases underground, in tuberous joints;
in the spring it sends up from its roots a
green reed, like a stalk, 2 feet high, with
narrow lanceolate leaves; these die down
annually. The flowering stalk rises directly
from the root, ending in an oblong scallop
spike; from each spike a white or yellow
bloom grows.
Description
Erect tree reaching 90 ft. high and 24
inches in diameter. Exfoliating rough bark,
grayish/black. The dark green foliage is
dense, with ascendent branches. The
leaves are simple, glossy dark green on
top, dull pale green underneath. The
flowers are globose; fruit yellow or orange
when ripe.
USES
Medicinal
Arthritis, body aches,
congestion,
diarrhea,
flatulence,
USES
Medicinal
Asthma, bronchitis,
nervousness.
chest
ailments,
96
colds, colic,
dyspepsia,
flu, headaches, morning sickness in

pregnant women, motion sickness,
respiratory ailments sore throats.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ika Otura, Oshe Iwori.
Attracts good vibes and fortune.
To banish evil spirits.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun.
Correlating Odu: Oshe Iroso.
The fruit infuriates Ogun.
Offering to the Orishas.
Rites of Palo
GRAJO / WHITE STOPPER

(Eugenia axillaris)
Other names:
Cuba - Grajo, guairaje, guairaje colorado
Dominican Republic - Escobn colorado,
escobn de vara, palo de hueso
El Salvador - Guayacan negro, escobo,
chamiso
Jamaica - Black cherry, rodwood, brown
leaf rodwood.
Mexico, Guatemala - Guayabillo
Puerto Rico - Grajo, murta
U.S - Eugenia Stopper
GERANIO / ROSE GERANIUM

(Pelargonium graveolens)
Other names:
Cuba - Geranio de olor.
Lukumi Pupayo
Description
Sub shrub, up to 3 feet tall. Exotic
cultivated plant known for the curly, lemon
scented leaves.
Description
A native shrub or small tree. The leaves
are ovate, glossy. Numerous white flowers
and black globose fruit. The plant emits a
musky unpleasant odor.
USES
Medicinal
Nervousness, ovarian problems.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ika Otura.

fortune.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun
To ward off evil spirits.
GIRASOL/SUNFLOWER
(Helianthus annuns)
GRAMA / BERMUDA GRASS

(Cynodon dactylon)
Other names:
Cuba Mirasol
Kongo Yongoso, tango
Lukumi Keuoro, orunnife, yenkemi
Other names:
Brazil Capin de Cidade
Colombia Pasto Bermuda
Cuba Grama, Yerba Bermuda, Yerba
del Prado, Yerba Fina
Kongo- Nfita
Lukumi Kotonembo, Ewe Eran
Puerto Rico - Grama
Description
Annual growing to 10 feet tall. It is in
flower from July to September, and the
seeds ripen from September to October.
Grows in open dry or moderately moist
soils.
Description
Evergreen perennial growing to 1 foot. It is
in leaf all year, in flower from August to
October, and the seeds ripen from
September to October. Plants are
sometimes grown as a cover for warm
sunny banks and are sometimes used for
lawns.
USES
Medicinal
High fevers, insect bites, lung ailments,
malaria, pulmonary complaints, sores,
swellings, rheumatic aches and pains.
97
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
GRANADILLO / JAMAICAN RAIN TREE

(Brya ebenus)
Medicinal
Catarrhal ophthalmia, cuts, diarrhea,
dropsy, dysentery, epilepsy, hysteria,
insanity, piles, syphilis, wounds.
Other names:
U.S. Jamaican Ebony, West Indies
Ebony, Ironwood
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba.
ritual omiero.
Rites of Palo
Description
Native tree reaching 30 ft. high. The
leaves are tiny and evergreen. Yelloworange flowers along the branches on and
off all year - especially after a rain.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Ogun.
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Ika.
GRANADA / PROMENADETE
(Punica granatum)
Other names:
Arada Aguwo
Cuba Granado Enano
Haiti - Grenad
Lukumi Oroko, Mayaku, yayeku-kansore
Mexico - Granada, granado
GRANADO AGRIO / POMEGRANATE

(Punica granatum)
Other names:
Brazil - Romanzeiro
Haiti - Pomegranate, Grenadier
Description
A small tree growing to about 15 feet with
brownish bark, long, narrow, willow-like
leaves and bright scarlet flowers. The fruit
is the size of an orange, with a harder
peel, containing sweet juice and
numerous seeds embedded in pulp.
Description
A small tree growing to 15 feet; brownish
bark; long, narrow, willow-like leaves;
bright scarlet flowers. The fruit is the size
of an orange, with a harder peel,
containing sweet juice and numerous
seeds embedded in pulp.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Fevers, intestinal worms. diarrhea and
chronic
dysentery,
sore
throat,
leucorrhoea, intermittent fevers.
Medicinal
Bleedings, intestinal worms, whites.
GRANGANA / HOOP VINE
(Trichostigma octandra)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oya and Shango.
Correlating Odu: Ofun Oshe.
Rites of Palo
To banish evil spirits and negativity.

fortune and ward off from accidents,
calamity, hostility and negativity in
general.
To ward off dark spirits and ensure a

good night's rest.
Other names:
Cuba - Bejuco de canasta
grngana, guaniqui, guaniquique.
prieto,
Description
A large, perennial, sprawling vine-like
bush found in calcareous soils. The stems
are
98
long, flexible, and pliable used in making

baskets Elliptical, glossy leaves; flowers
white in racemes. The fruit is black.
USES
Medicinal
Digestive ailments, enteritis, fever, wound.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Ika Oshe.
Medicinal
Asthma, dropsy, wound.
GREGUE: Grenguere
GUABAN: Cabo de Hacha

GRENGUERE / JEW'S MALLOW
(Corchorus olitorius)
GUABICO
(Xilopia Glabra)
Other names:
Cuba - Gregue, Yute
U.S. Jutes, Bush okra
Other names:
Cuba -Malagueta, pico de gallo, pino de
monte.
Description
An erect woody herb, usually 5 ft. high.
Leaves are short stalked, ovate to elliptic,
margin serrated. Leaf blade usually with
basal protrusions. Flowers are yellow and
the fruits are short-stalked, cylindrical
capsule that splits into 5 parts. Seeds
grayish black, angled.
Description
Tree with twisted branches, smooth gray
bark; leaves glossy, ovate, alternate, pale
green on top, lighter green at the bottom;
single flowers, six petals, the longer ones
are brown, and the rest triangular in
shape.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Aches and pains, cystitis, dysentery,
enteritis, fever, gonorrhea, pectoral pains,
tumors.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba.
To sidetrack someone following you.
For amulets.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya, Oshun, Shango, and
Elegba.
For food offerings to the Orishas
GUACALOTE / GRAY NICKERS

(Caesalpinia crista)
Other names:
Cuba Mate gris, quita maldicion
Panama - Calentura
U.S. Fever nut, Wait-a-bit, Bonduc nut,
Nickernut, Sea nut
GROSELLA / GOOSEBERRY TREE

(Phyllanthus acidus)
Other names:
Cuba - Manzana lora.
Mexico Ciruela cortada,
Estrella
Nicaragua Grosella
Manzana
Description
A woody climber with pinnately compound
leaves and yellow flowers in terminal
racemes. The stems and leaves, bearing
recurved spines. The pods are 2-4
seeded, short, inflated and covered with
prickles. The seeds are nearly round,
glossy gray.
Description
Tree reaching 40 ft. high. Wood is white,
fairly hard. Leaves ovate, flowers in
panicles. Produces numerous acrid fruits.
99
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
GUACAMAYA COLORADA/ RED
DWARF POINCIANA
Medicinal
Acne,
asthma,
colic,
congestion,
convulsions, depurative, diarrhea, dropsy,
fever,
gonorrhea,
leprosy,
malaria,
neuroses, palsy, snakebite.
Description
A red variety of the Guacamaya plant
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango.
Correlating Odu: Iroso Meji, Oshe Iroso,
Otura Iwori, Oshe Iroso.
For divination (Ibo).
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Otura Osa, Irete Ogunda.
Stronger than the yellow variety.
GUACAMAYA AMARILLA / YELLOW

DWARF POINCIANA
(Poinciana pulcherrima)
GUACAMAYA DE COSTA: Campeche

GUACAMAYA FRANCESA/CANDLE
BUSH
(Cassia alata)
Other names:
Colombia- Guacamaya, clavelina, flor de
angel, florito, flor de pavo.
Costa Rica - Clavelina, Hoja de sen.
Cuba - Guacamaya amarilla, clavelina.
Dominican Republic - Carzazo
El Salvador - Flor barbona.
Guatemala - Hierba de espanto, espanta
lobos, gallito, Santa Rosa, flor de chapa.
Mexico - Flor del camarn, flor de
guacamaya
Nicaragua - Guacamaya, guacamayo
Philippines - Carzazo
U.S. - Barbados flower, Barbados-pride,
flowerfence, bird-of paradise flower
Other names:
Colombia - Bajagua, lucutema, mucuteno,
majagillo.
CubaGuacamaya
francesa,
guacamayn, yerba de los herpes o de los
empeines.
Dominican Republic - Guajavo
Guatemala, Honduras Barajo
Haiti - Zb--dartres, Kas-piyant', KasAil, Cassia Alata
Jamaica - Ringworm shrub
Mexico - Flor del secreto, Taratana
Nicaragua - Soroncontil
Panama - Laureo
Philippines - Capulco
Puerto Rico - Talantola, talantro
U.S. Candlestick senna, wild senna
Description
Shrub that grows to a height of 10 to 15
feet. The branches are prickly and the
leaves are large and doubly compound
with many small leaflets. The flower is
fiery red and yellow "sunset color", has
five petals with a yellow margin in a
pyramidal inflorescence.
Description
Shrub growing up to 12 ft. high; erect
yellow spikes resembling fat candles
before individual blossoms open. The
leaves are large, bilateral. The fruit is a
pod; seeds small and square. Found in
secondary
vegetation
and
along
riverbanks.
USES
Medicinal
Inflammation, liver ailments, rheumatic
aches and pains.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Otura Osa, Irete Ogunda.
Medicinal
Acne, eczema, herpes, ringworm, skin
infections, snake bites, uterus disorders,
venereal diseases.
100
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun and Osayin.
Rites of Palo
To counteract ingested witchcraft.
GUACAMARI: Camagua
GUACAMAYO / CARICATURE PLANT
(Graptophyllum pictum)
GUAGUASI
(Zuelania guidonia)
Other names:
Cuba- Justicia, papagallo.
Description
Tree of calcareous soils and coastal areas
reaching 40 ft. high. White-gray bark, trunk
erect and cylindrical; branches long, at
right angles to trunk. Leaves slender,
pubescent underneath. Flowers green;
fruits dark green. Abundant yellow,
transparent sap.
Description
Evergreen shrub reaching up to 6 feet tall.
The leaves are simple, coarse; purple, tan,
greenish. It presents showy red flowers
that appear during the summer.
USES
Medicinal
Earache, constipation,
wound.
USES
sore,
Medicinal
Body toxins, fever, intestinal ailments,
itches, rheumatism, skin ulcers, syphilis.
swelling,
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Odua.
Correlating Odu: Obara Ojuani.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Osa Trupo.
GUACO / CLIMBING HEMPWEED

(Mikania cordifolia)
GUAIMARO / RAMOON
(Trophis racemosa)
Other names:
Brazil - Cip-Cabeludo, Hierba de Cobra
Haiti - Lyan'n Koulv, Lyan'n serpent,
Lyan'n Franoise
Mexico Cimarron
Puerto Rico Bejuco de Aradores
USES
Other names:
Cuba - Palo Ramn, Ramn de bestia y
Ramn de caballos, balsamo.
Dominican Republic - Ramn, Ramon de
vaca, Ramon de bestia.
El Salvador - Ojushte, chulujuste, pilijuste
Guatemala - Ramon colorado
Haiti - Ramon, bois neuf rameau
Jamaica - Ramoon
Kongo Cuaribao, nkento, nkitan kitan
Mexico - Ramon, ramoncillo, ushi
Panama - Ojoche macho, breadnut
Puerto Rico - Ramoncillo, Ramon.
Venezuela - Marfil.
Medicinal
Asthma, cholera, Fever, Flu, Malaria,
Rheumatism, scorpion bites, sore, spasm,
stomach ailments, syphilis, tetanus, tumor.
Description
Native tree reaching up to 50 ft. high. The
leaves are elliptical. Produces small edible
orange fruits, with a large seed inside.
Description
Herbaceous vine often blanketing nearby
vegetation. Slender cylindrical stems;
leaves simple, opposite, ovate, acumeate,
bright green on top, pale green
underneath; flowers small, white.
101
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba
Medicinal
Slow milk production in nursing mothers.
GUAJEN / PUFFBALL
(Lycoperdon gemattum)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Rites of Palo
To dominate spirits
Other names:
U.S.- Smoke ball
Description
Fungus in which the aboveground portion
is typically a stem less brownish sac with
an opening at the top through which
issues the dust like mass of ripe spores.
GUAIRAJE / SPANISH STOPPER

(Eugenia buxifolia)
Description
Native shrub up to 10 ft. high. The wood is
hard, similar to the guava tree, found in all
types of soils, especially in rocky soils
near the coast.
USES
Medicinal
Wounds.
USES
GUAMA / LANCEPOD
(Lonchocarpus domingensis)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba and Yemaya.
Other names:
Cuba Guam de soga, guam de
majagua.
Dominican Republic - Anoncillo, anoncillo
de majagua, anon de ro
Haiti - Bois caiman, Battre--Caman.
Puerto Rico - Geno-geno
GUAJACA / SPANISH MOSS

(Dendropogon usneoides)
Other names:
Brazil Barba de Velho, Samambaia do
Norte
Colombia Barbas de Viejo, Melenas
Cuba - Guajaca, barba espaola,
guajaquilla.
Haiti - Bab-pan'yol, Barba de Ucar
Puerto Rico Barbas de viejo
U.S. Graybeard, Old man's beard
Description
Evergreen tree found in low, wet areas
such as riverbanks, streams, ponds, and
swamps. Reaches up to 45 feet with
extended branches. The bark is brown
with white specks. The leaves are green,
pinnate, compound. In bloom during the
summer, pink/violet flowers.
USES
Description
Perennial, rootless epiphyte that hangs
over trees; stems slender, branching,
leafy, hanging, often to 20 feet or more,
hoary-gray;
leaves
scattered,
very
narrowly linear, to 2 inches long; flowers
small, pale green or blue, solitary in axils
of leaves.
Medicinal
Urinary track problems.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshosi.
Correlating Odu: Okana Otura, Iwori
Okana, Irete Untelu, Irete Ogunda, Irete
Otura.
USES
Medicinal
Gum or tongue wounds, hemorrhoids.
102
Rites of Palo
GUANABANA / SOURSOP
(Annona muricata)
Other names:
Brazil - Graviola
Haiti - Kowosol
Lukumi Iggi Omo Fun fun, gwanillo,
nichularafun
U.S. - Prickly custard apple, durian
GUAMA DE COSTA / LANCEPOD

(Lonchocarpus latifolious)
Other names:
Cuba - Guam de costa, Guam macho,
Frijolillo amarillo.
Description
A small tree, reaching 20 feet high; the
leaves are leathery, very dark and shiny
green. They have a pungent odor when
crushed. The fruit is oblong or somewhat
curved with a length of 13 inch and a
weight of up to 6 pound.
Description
Evergreen tree found in low, wet areas
such as riverbanks, streams, ponds, and
swamps. Reaches up to 45 feet with
extended branches. The bark is brown
with white specks. The leaves are green,
pinnate, compound. In bloom during the
summer, pink/violet flowers.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Arthritis pain, Catarrh, chills, colds,
diabetes, diarrhea, dysentery, dyspepsia,
fever,
flu,
gallbladder
attacks,
hypertension, insomnia, internal and
external parasites and worms, kidneys,
liver ailments, nervousness, neuralgia,
palpitations, rheumatism, ringworm, sores
and internal ulcers.
Medicinal
Acne, rashes.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya, Oshun, and Ogun.
GUAMA HEDIONDO HEMBRA
(Lonchocarpus Blainii)
Other names:
Cuba - Guam hediondo, Guamacito
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala, Ibeji.
Description
Shrub common in low areas and rocky
soils.
GUANABANA CIMARRONA: Bag

GUANABANILLA
(Ouratea cubensis)
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya.
Other names:
Cuba - Orilla de arroyo.
Description
Common shrub with leaves similar to the
sour sop plant.
GUAMAO/ GUAMARO
(Lonchocarpus oligosperma)
Description
Indigenous tree propagated by seeds in
mountainous and coastal areas. It is in
flower during April. The roots are lateral.
USES
Medicinal
Backaches, kidney stones.
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Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
USES
Medicinal
Cardiac conditions, lack of appetite.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango.
Correlating Odu: Obara Oshe.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
GUANO PRIETO/ GUANO PALM

(Copernicia wrightii)
GUANINA / CASSIA
(Cassia tora)
Other names:
Cuba - Guanito.
Lukumi Mariwo Dun
Other names:
Costa Rica - Dormilon
Cuba - Hierba guanina
Guatemala Ejotil
Mexico Biche memiso
Puerto Rico Dormidera, Hediondilla
Description
Small plant, common in savannas and
sandy soils, forming numerous colonies.
The trunk is slender, covered by the base
of the fallen leaves.
Description
Small annual that grows in dry soils. The
leaves close at night; the flower has five
petals, yellow.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango.
USES
GUAO
(Comocladia dentata)
Medicinal
Eruptions, eye pain, congestion, itchiness,
redness, or sensitivity to light when
caused by wind-heat conditions, fever,
gout, inflammations, joint pains, ringworm,
sciatica, skin diseases, skin itch, ulcers.
Other names:
Cuba - Guao de costa, Guao de sabana,
Guao hediondo, Guao Real
Haiti Bouziyt
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Otura Iroso.
Description
Shrub found in savannas, coastal and arid
soil areas. Its latex is very caustic,
producing serious burns to the skin. The
leaves are ovate, dark green.
USES
GUANO BLANCO / COPERNICIA

(Copernicia glabrescens)
Medicinal
Warts.
Other names:
Cuba (Pinar del Ro) - Guano blanco
Kongo Tolliyeke, molonse
Lukumi Mariwo Fun
Religious/Magical
It has a destructive nature.
GUARA
(Cupania cubensis)
Description
Palm that has a short, weakly suckering
and relatively slender trunk, covered in old
leaf bases, and a spreading crown of stiff,
circular fan leaves, light green above and
waxy gray below. Common in savannas.
Other names:
Cuba - Guar amarilla, Guarana, Guarana
Hembra
104
GUASIMA / WEST INDIAN ELM

(Guazuma tomentosa)
Description
Common tree or shrub found in
calcareous soils with glabrous, cylindrical
stems. The leaves are alternate,
composite, pale green and the young
shoots are red. The flowers are whitish
color. The wood is also white.
Other names:
Colombia Guasimo colorado
Cuba - Gusima comn, gusima de
caballo.
Guatemala - Carlote
Haiti - Bwa Dm
Mexico Aquiche, Cuaulote, Majahua de
Toro
Nicaragua - Cuacimillo
Puerto Rico Guacima
Venezuela Guasimo macho
U.S. Bastard Cedar
USES
Medicinal
Bladder and intestinal catarrh, hysteria,
liver ailments, nervousness, swelling.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oya.
Rites of Palo
One of the Nkisi's most essential
elements.

household.
Description
A medium indigenous tree growing to 60
ft. in height. The leaves are oblong; small
white to light yellowish flowers. It produces
an edible fruit that is covered with rough
barbs.
USES
GUARACABUYA / DIVIDIVI
(Caesalpinia coriaria)
Medicinal
Asthma, bronchitis, bruises, childbirth,
dermatitis,
diarrhea,
dysentery,
elephantiasis, erysipelas, fever, hepatitis,
kidney disease, leprosy, liver problems,
malaria, nephritis, pneumonia, rashes,
skin infections, skin sores, and syphilis.
Other names:
Colombia - Libidibi, baran, baranoa
Costa Rica - Nacascol
Cuba - Dibidibi, guatapan
Dominican Republic -Dividivi, guastapan
El Salvador - Tinaco
Guatemala - Nacascolote
Haiti - Dividivi
Jamaica - Libidibi, dividivi
Mexico - Cascalote
Nicaragua - Nacasolo
Panama - Agallo
Puerto Rico - Dividive, guatapan
Venezuela - Guatapn, guatapanare
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs Elegba, Yemaya and Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Odi Irete
Rites of Palo
GUASIMILLA
(Prockia crucis)
Description
A tree that grows to approximately 30 feet
tall. The trunk and branches are gnarled,
with gray bark. Leaves alternate; leaflets
numerous, regularly nearly touching to
overlapping; flowers are small, in terminal
clusters, white or yellow, pea-like,
inconspicuous, very fragrant. Fruit are
small curved, dished, or twisted flat pod
with rounded ends.
Other names:
Colombia - Huesito
Cuba - Guasimilla de costa.
Ecuador - Sacha capuli
El Salvador - Cacho de novillo
Puerto Rico - Guasimilla
Description
Shrub found near coastal areas, slender
branches and widely ovate leaves;
scented
USES
Medicinal
Colic, diarrhea, gangrene, heart, pile.
105
Dalia Quiros-Moran
flowers, pale green. The fruit is green, red

when matured.
USES
Medicinal
Dry skin, hand cramps.
USES
Medicinal
Nervousness.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun, Elegba, and Shango.
GUAYABA / GUAVA
(Psidium guajaba)
GUAYACAN / LIGNUM-VITAE
(Gaiacum officinale)
Other names:
Cuba - Guayabo
Haiti - Goyav, Gouyav, Grivav
Lukumi - Ke-en-ku
Mexico Guayabo, Guayaba perulera,
Guayaba de Venado
Nicaragua Guayaba de gusano
Other names:
Cuba - Guayacn negro, palo santo.
Haiti - Gayak, Jasmin d'Afrique, Bois
Santi- Gayac
Description
Low tree that may reach a height of 25
feet. It has smooth light gray bark, which is
splotched with green patches. The flowers
are one-half inch long, blue or white in
color; they bloom in March and April.
Description
Small tree that grows up to 35 feet in
height; spreading branches. The leathery
leaves are opposite oblong-elliptic and
have pronounced veins. When crushed
they are aromatic. The flowers are white
and somewhat fragrant. The fruit has a
distinctive fresh aroma with a sweet musk
odor.
USES
Medicinal
Blood toxins, rheumatism, and syphilis.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Ika.
Rites of Palo
Medicinal
Diarrhea, dysentery, menstrual irregularity,
stomach upset.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Ibeji.
Rites of Palo
GUAYACANCILLO: Camarn
GUAYARU / FLORIDA ARROWROOT
(Zamia Angustifolia)
Other names:
Cuba - Yuquilla de ratn.
U.S. - Coontie
GUAYABILLO / BRAZILIAN RAIN TREE

(Pithecellobium tortum)
Description
Plant with subterranean and tuberous
stem; serrated leaves. Seed cones dark
gray or dark brown to black.
Other names:
Cuba - Humo
Description
Tree with leaves, fruit and bark similar to
the guava tree. It has thorns and delicate
mimosa-like compound leaves and hard
wood, golden yellow.
106
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun, Elegba.
Correlating Odu: Iwori Ogunda.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshosi
Other
Disinfectant.
GIN: Caa Brava

GIRA / CALABASH TREE
(Crescentia cujete)
GUIQUI: Arbol de la Vida

GUIZACILLO: Aretillo
Other names:
Colombia - Mate, Totumo
Costa Rica - Calabacero, guacal
Cuba- Gira cimarrona
Ecuador - Mate
El Salvador - Jcaro, cutuco, jcaro de
cuchara,
jcaro
de
guacal,
gira
cimarrona, huacal
Guatemala -Morro, morro guacalero
Haiti - Kalbas
Mexico - Jcaro, jcara, giro, cujete
Nicaragua - Jcaro
Panama - Calabazo, palo de calabaza,
calabaza.
GUIZAZO DE BARACOA / COMMON

COCKLEBUR
(Xanthium chinense)
Other names:
Cuba - Guizazo de mabujabo.
U.S. Burr weed, clutbur
Description
Coarse weed found near barnyards and
other rich soils, stem erect, stout,
brandling, and rough, from one to two feet
high. Blooms in late summer/fall; greenish
yellow grapelike clusters.
Description
Dense, round-headed evergreen tree that
grows to 40 feet high. The flowers are
yellow and green with red or purple veins,
cup-shaped, and appear to emerge
directly from the branches. These are
followed by large, round fruit, with a
smooth, hard shell, which hang directly
beneath the branches.
USES
Medicinal
Colic, hysteria, measles, nervousness,
painful menstruation, restlessness.
Religious Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun, Elegba.
USES
GUIZAZO DE CABALLO / COCKELBUR
(Xanthium chinense)
Medicinal
Cold, chest ailments, tumor, ulcers.
Other names:
Cuba - Guizazo de mabujabo, lampurda.
Puerto Rico Bardana
U.S. Burdock, Burweed
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba.
Correlating Odu: Obara Irete, Otrupon
Ogunda, Ojuani Obara.
Used as receptacles and to make
maracas.
Description
Coarse weed found near barnyards and
other rich soils, stem erect, stout,
brandling, and rough, from one to two feet
high. Blooms in late summer/fall; greenish
yellow grapelike clusters.
USES
Medicinal
Herpes, intestinal worms, jaundice, kidney
ailments, ulcers.
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Dalia Quiros-Moran
GIRA CIMARRONA
(Casasia calophylla)
Other names:
Cuba (Oriente) - Cocuyo.
Description
Shrubs to medium-sized trees; leaves
opposite, ovate, fruit a berry resembling
small calabashes.
USES
Medicinal
Bladder, liver
gangrene.
and
kidney
ailments,
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Osayin, Elegba.
Correlating Odu: Odi Iroso.
108
HELECHO / COMMON FERN

(Polipocium vulgare)
H
HABA: Aba
HABILLA: Salvadera.
HATILLO: Caobilla de Sabana.
Description
All indigenous and cultivated plants that
have thick, tough leaves up to about 8
inches long (often much smaller) and grow
in a variety of habitats: on trees in
woodland, on sand dunes, earth banks,
rock outcrops.
HEDIONDA / SICKLEPOD
(Cassia occidentalis)
Other names:
Colombia - Hierba de la potra, hierba de
gallinazo, altera, furrusca, comida de
murcielago,
chilinchile, busca.
Costa Rica - Pico de pajaro
Cuba - Hedionda, Hierba hedionda,
martinica, brusca
El Salvador Frijolillo
Haiti - Pois-puant, Zpiant, Herbe puante,
Balambala
Lukumi Arajara, Ewe Tomode
Mexico - Hediondillo, mezquitillo
Nicaragua -Frijolillo, pico de pjaro
Panama - Frijolillo
Venezuela Brusca
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Osa Odi.
HELECHO ARBOL: Camarn.
HELECHO DE RIO / ROYAL FERN
(Osmunda regalis)
Other names:
Cuba - Helecho acutico.
Kongo Vititilango, nfita masa
Lukumi Imoshun, Imo, iti ibu
U.S. - Flowering fern
Description
Branched annual herb or under-shrub;
leaves alternate, flowers yellow; fruit
flattened. Bloom July through August. Fruit
September through October. Frequently
occurs in plains rarely in uplands and in
hilly areas.
Description
A large and dramatic fern that grows from
a stout rhizome, which creeps along the
ground, then ascends like a stump to give
rise to a crown like tussock of light green
leaves. The rootstock, with its mass of
wiry black fibers, can be as much as 12"
above the soil line.
USES
Medicinal
Abscesses, anemia, asthma, bronchitis,
colic, constipation in babies, dropsy,
earache, fever, general weakness,
gonorrhea, inflammation, intestinal worms,
liver complaints, pain, parasitic skin
diseases, rheumatism, ring worm, skin
fungi, tuberculosis, urinary track disorders,
uterine pain, yellow fever.
USES
Medicinal
Swelling, tumor, wound.
Religious/Magical:
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun and Osanyin.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango and Elegba.
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Iwori, Osa Irete
and Okana Otura.
HELENIO / ELECAMPANE
(Inula helenium)
Other names:
Cuba - Inula
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Dalia Quiros-Moran
Description
A coarse growing perennial herb,
cultivated for the roots. The erect stem
grows from 4 to 5 feet high, is very stout
and deeply furrowed, and near the top,
branched. The whole plant is downy.
Leaves are up to a foot long, ellipticoblong and hairy. The plant is in bloom
from June to August. The flowers are
bright yellow, in very large, terminal
heads, on long stalks, resembling a
double sunflower.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala and Babalu Aye.
Other
To make burlap, fabric used for Babalu
Aye rituals.
HENO/VELVET GRASS
(Holcus Lanatus)
USES
Other names:
Cuba- Heno Blanco
U.S. Yorkshire Fog
Medicinal
Asthma, cough, lung ailments, skin.
Description
Grass that grows wild, 18 to 24 inches
high. and has soft, downy green leaves In
the summer, spikes of tiny purplish-white
flowers are produced.
HELIOTROPO / HELIOTROPE
(Heliotropium peruvianum)
Other names:
U.S. Cherry pie
USES
Description
A perennial plant that has a strong
fragrance like vanilla. It has vibrant purple,
violet, or white flowers that bloom during
the summer, and some strains have flower
clusters as large as 1 foot in diameter. The
plant grows 1-2 feet tall.
Medicinal
To remove thorns from the skin.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
To attract love.
USES
HEPATICA / ROUND LOBE HEPATICA

(Hepatica nobilis)
Medicinal
Calluses, Fever, malaria, nausea, warts,
wound.
Other names:
U.S. - Round-leaved Hepatica. Noble
Liverwort. Liver leaf. Liver weed. Trefoil.
Herb Trinity.
Kidneywort.
HENEQUEN
(Agave fourcroydes)
Description
Perennial plant that grows at the shade of
deciduous tree forests. The leaves are
broad kidney or heart shaped, about 2
inches long and broad, with three broad,
angular lobes, leathery, smooth and dark
green above, almost evergreen, placed on
long, slender foot-stalks growing direct
from the root. In the wild state the flowers
are generally blue, more rarely rose or
white, but in cultivation many other tints
are to be found.
Other names:
Lukumi - Kunweko
Description
Cacti like plant with stout stems that grow
up to four feet tall and are topped with a
rosette of leaves that are four to six feet
long and almost four inches wide. The
plant has leaves with large spines and a
needle-like point at the tip of each leaf.
110
USES
Medicinal
Chest ailments, cough, indigestion, liver
disorders, liver related pains and aches.

HIERBA DE LA NIA: Yerba de la Nia

HIERBA DE LA VIEJA: Yerba de la Vieja
HIERBA DE LIMON: Yerba de Limon
HIERBA DE SAN MARTIN: Yerba de
San Martin
HIERBA DIEZ DEL DIA: Yerba diez del
da
HIEDRA: Yedra
HIERBA BRUJA / PARA GRASS
(Panicum purpurascens)
Other names:
Cuba -Paral, Parana, Hierba del paral.
U.S. - California grass, buffalo grass,
Mauritius grass, signal grass
HIERBA FINA / BERMUDA GRASS

(Cynodon dactylon)
Other names:
U.S. - Wiregrass, couch grass, and devil
grass
Description
Perennial grass, rather coarse, with well
developed root; densely hairy nodes, hairy
sheaths; spikelets elliptic, sometimes
purplish rachis more or less flat,
herbaceous, ribbon-like.
Description
A long-lived perennial that propagates by
runners, underground rootstocks and
seed. Runners may reach many feet in
length. The flowering branches reach only
6 to 12 inches high. The leaves are up to
4 inches long, flat, and somewhat hairy at
the base.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Obara Okana, Irete
Iroso.
Used to pack amulets.
USES
Medicinal
Calculus, cancer, convulsions, cough,
cramps,
cystitis,
diarrhea,
dropsy,
dysentery,
epilepsy,
headache,
hemorrhage,
hypertension,
hysteria,
insanity, kidneys, measles, rubella,
snakebite,
sores,
stones,
tumors,
urogenital disorders, warts, and wounds.
HIERBA BUENA / WILD MINT

(Mentha sativa)
Other names:
Lukumi Ewe Efirin
Description
A rather coarse perennial 1 to 1 1/2 feet
high; leaves conspicuously stalked, ovalrounded or wedge-shaped at the base,
more or less hairy on both sides; flowers
in whorls.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba.
ritual omiero.
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Otura.
Rites of Palo
USES
Medicinal
Colds, diarrhea, headache, insomnia, skin
ulcers, stomach upset, vomiting.
HIERBA GARRO: Yerba de Garro

HIERBA JURABANA: Yerba Jurabana
HIERBA LECHERA: Yerba Lechosa
HIERBA LUISA: Yerba Luisa
HIERBA MARAVEDI: Yerba Maravedi
HIERBA MORA: Yerba Mora
HIERBA MULATA: Yerba Mulata
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya
Correlating Odu: Osa Iroso.
Rites of Palo
111
Dalia Quiros-Moran
HIGUERA / COMMON FIG

(Ficus carica)
HIGUERON / GRAMALERIA
(Ficus dolearia)
Other names:
Lukumi Poto, popo, opopo
Other names:
Brazil - Figueira branca
Description
A bush or small tree, rarely more than 18
to 20 feet high, with broad, rough,
deciduous, deeply-lobed leaves in the
cultivated varieties, though in wild forms
the leaves are often almost entire.
Description
Tree native from Brazil often used for
wood and its medicinal properties.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Intestinal parasites.
Medicinal
Catarrhal affections of the nose and
throat, chest ailments, dental abscesses,
furuncle, gumboils, tumor.
HINO / MALE FERN

(Dryopteris tetragona)
Description
Perennial fern of slender, spreading,
blackish rhizomes with brown, fibrous
scales; stalks usually single, but often in
masses, erect.
Religious/Magical:
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Osanyin.
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Ejionle, Irete
Ojuani, and Ojuani Irete.
USES
HIGUERETA / CASTOR BEAN

(Ricinus communis)
Medicinal
Intestinal worms, rheumatism
Other names:
Cuba- Palmachristi
Haiti - Maskriti, Maskreti
Mexico Higuerilla, Higuera Infernal
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun, Inle.
Description
Erect shrub or small tree; grows up to 20
feet high. The stem, stalks and leaves are
reddish to purple. Palmate leaves with
uneven serrated edge are also red or
colored and often have a blue-gray bloom.
It is grown as an ornamental in gardens,
sometimes as a houseplant. It also grows
as a common weed. The seeds are in a
seedpod that explodes when is ripen.
HINOJO / FENNEL
(Foeniculum vulgare)
Other names:
Brazil - Erva doce
Lukumi - Koriko
Description
An evergreen perennial reaching up to 6
feet high. It has a thick, perennial rootstock, stout stems, 4 to 5 feet or more in
height, erect and cylindrical, bright green
and so smooth as to seem polished, It is in
leaf all year, in flower from August to
October, and the seeds ripen from
September to October. Scented, bright,
golden flowers. Found most often in dry
calcareous soils near the coast.
USES
Medicinal
Abscesses, bruises, contusions, dropsy,
headache,
rheumatism,
ringworms,
sunburn, warts.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Iwori Ogunda.

112
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Medicinal
Abdominal
distension,
conjunctivitis,
cystitis, indigestion, kidney stones, sore
eyes, sore throats, stomach pains, urinary
disorders.
HOJA PLATEADA
(Psychotria horizontalis)
Other names:
Cuba (Camagey)- Dagame cimarron.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
Rites of Palo
For funeral rites and ceremonies.
To banish witchcraft, evil spirits and
negativity.
Description
Native shrub. The leaves are thick,
glabrous, semi- leathery, deep green;
flowers white; fruit dark orange, red when
mature.
Other
Insect repellent
Dog fleas
USES
Medicinal
Bruises, contusions, wounds.
HISOPO / HYSSOP
(Hyssopus officinalis)
HUEVO DE GALLO / MILKY TREE

(Tabernaemontana citrifolia)
Description
A perennial evergreen, 1 to 1.5 feet high,
with a woody stem-base, from which,
herbaceous shoots bearing flowers grow
each year. Tops rise from the perennial
root-crown each season. The leaves are
entire, up to 3 inches lineal, long and
slender. The whole plant has a pungent,
bitter taste.
USES
Other names:
Colombia - Guacharaco, cojn de cabrito,
turma de perro
Cuba - Huevo de gallo, lechoso, pegojo
Dominican Republic Palo de leche
Mexico - Cojn de gato, lecherillo, palo de
San Diego
Nicaragua - Cachito
Puerto Rico Huevo de Gallo
U.S. Milkwood
Medicinal
Bronchitis, coughs in children, flatulence,
herpes, respiratory infections, lung
ailments, sore throats, stomachaches,
upper respiratory tract infections, wounds.
Description
Very brittle shrub; leaves long, wavy at the
edges, pointed, glossy bluish green, pale
underneath. The fruit has multiple seeds.
Found in arid and rocky areas.
Religious/Magical
For purification baths and cleansing of
persons and objects.
USES
Medicinal
Fever, hemorrhage, herpes, impotence,
wart.
HOJA MENUDA
(Pithecellobium berterianum)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba and Osanyin.
Correlating Odu: Okana Ogunda.
Description
Evergreen tree growing in coastal areas
up to 40 ft. Its wood is fibrous, flexible and
very resistant; color dark purple.
USES
Medicinal
Infantile colic.
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Dalia Quiros-Moran
HUESO / PURIO
(Ampelocera pubescens)
Other names:
Haiti - Bois-Blanc, Bwa Blan grandes
feuilles
Description
Tree reaching up to 30 ft, with strong
vegetative aromas. The leaves are ovate;
white flowers; fruit is green.
USES
Rites of Palo
HUESO DE COSTA: Camarn.
HUMO / SILK TREE
(Pithecellobium obovale)
Other names:
Cuba- Abey blanco, encinillo, Moruro
Blanco
Haiti - Guannegoule
Kongo - Chona
Lukumi Eyereyo
U.S. Monkey's Earring
Description
Perennial tree reaching up to 30 ft. high;
grows among pine woods and sandy soils.
The flowers are produced in short
racemes white; bluish, elliptical seed.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
For love binding spells

HUMO DE SABANA: Palo cenizo.
114
portions, is covered with a whitish, silky

pubescence, giving to it a beautiful silvergray color. The odor is strongly aromatic,
being intensified when the herb is bruised;
and to the taste the plant is intensely
bitter, with a persistently bitter aftertaste.
I
ICACO / COCO PLUM
(Chrusobalanus icaco)
Other names:
Bahamas - Pork-fat apple, white plum
Brazil - Ajur, icaco, guajur
Cuba - Hicaco, icaco, icaco de costa,
icaco dulce
El Salvador - Icaco rosado, icaco negro
Haiti Zicaque, Pom Zikak, Prune
Zicaque, Prune Coton, Gros Zicaque,
Zicaque blanc
Kongo Mungaoka
Lukumi - Kinseke
Puerto Rico - Hicaco, icaco, jicaco
U.S. - Icaco coco-plum,
USES
Medicinal
This plant should not be prescribed for
pregnant women.
Digestive complaints, fevers, intestinal
worms, liver ailments, uterus, menstrual
complaints, spasm, wounds.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Babalu Aye, Obatala.
Burned with incense to

negativity.
Description
Indigenous spreading shrub or small tree
up to 10 ft. tall with leathery, dark-green,
roundish to obovate leaves. The small
white flowers are produced in racemes.
The mature fruits are 1 to 2 inches in
length and ovoid or globular. The thin skin
of the fruit varies from pinkish white, to
red, to purplish black. The white, cottony
pulp adheres to the single large ridged
seed and is somewhat insipid in taste.
Other
Insect repellent.
To remove cooking odors
household.
In potpourris.
Hair tonic or conditioner
banish
from
the
INCIENSO AFRICANO: Palo caf.
USES
INCIENCIO DE GUINEA/INCENSE TREE

(Icica guaianensis)
Medicinal
Colds, dysentery, ulcers.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshosi.
Correlating Odu: Iwori Oshe
For amulets to evade the police.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ibeji.
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Ogbe
Palo Rites
INCIENSO DE PLAYA / SEA LAVENDER

(Tournefortia gnaphalodes)
INCIENSO / SOUTHERNWOOD
(Artemisa abrotamum)
Other names:
Cuba - Inciencio de costa.
Lukumi - Egbado
Other names:
Cuba -Abrtamo macho.
Lukumi Turare, minselo
U.S. - Old man
Description
Shrub up to 6 ft. tall; aromatic leaves,
oblanceolate, with silky hairs, succulent;
flowers white, tinged pink in throat; fruit
conical-ovoid, hollowed at base, corky.
Description
A deciduous shrub, sending up in the
spring, from a stout rootstock, several
bushy, herbaceous stems, somewhat
woody at the base and from 1 to 4 feet in
height. The whole plant, except the woody
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Dalia Quiros-Moran
Found in coastal dunes, coastal rock

barrens.
USES
Medicinal
Skin ulcers,
wounds.
USES
Medicinal
Rheumatism, venereal diseases.
venereal
diseases,
and
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, and Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Okana, Irete
Ogunda and Obara Eyioko.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya
household.
Burned with incense to banish negativity
and witchcraft.
IPECACUANA / IPECAC
(Cephaelis ipecacuana)
Description
A small, shrubby plant about a foot high,
growing in clumps or patches, in moist,
shady woods. The plant has a slender
stem, which grows partly underground, the
lower portion being knotted. Fibrous
rootlets are given off from the knots, and
some of them develop an abnormally thick
bark, in which much starch is deposited.
USES
Medicinal
Asthma,
bronchitis,
dysentery,
hemorrhages, pulmonary ailments, skin
conditions, whooping cough.
ITAMORREAL / JACOB'S LADDER

(Pedilanthus tithymaloides)
Other names:
Colombia - Dictamo real
Cuba - Itamo real, gallito colorado,
dictamo real, zapatero.
Guatemala - Pie de nio
Mexico - Candelilla
Nicaragua - Dictambo
U.S. - slipper plant, bird-cactus, redbird
cactus, jew-bush
Venezuela - Ponopinito
Description
Succulent shrub with milky juice; stems
green, often zigzag; leaves alternate,
simple, pointed, green or white-edged;
flowers red and clustered at the ends of
branches; fruit a capsule.
116
USES
Medicinal
Cuts, gonorrhea, jaundice, impotence,
itch, rheumatism, tumors.
JABILLA: Salvadera.
JABONCILLO / CHEWSTICK
(Gouania polygama)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya.
Correlating Odu: Iwori Ika
Burned in incense to banish witchcraft
Other names:
Cuba - Bejuco de Cuba
Kongo - Langui
Lukumi Ewe bana, Obueno, kekeriongo
JAGEY/WILD FIG
(Ficus trigonata)
Description
Climbing vine. Leaves elliptical, olivegreen above, yellow green below. Flowers
with 5 white petals. Fruit green, 3-winged,
3-seeded.
Other names:
Cuba Yo puedo mas que tu
Dominican Republic - Higo cimarrn
Guatemala - Chimn, Higo
Haiti - Figuier
Kongo Nkunia bracanone, nkunia
sanda, otakondo
Lukumi Fiapaba, afoma, uendo
Puerto Rico - Jagey blanco
Virgin Islands - Wild fig
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ejionle Osa, and Ojuani
Meji.
Description
Large tree common in all kinds of soils;
grows preferably in woods, hills and wet
areas, such as riverbanks and streams.
The leaves are alternate, entire, glossy.
The fruit is a small fig; tender wood.
Other
To polish objects made of ivory.
To whiten teeth.
JAGUA / GENIPAP
(Genipa americana)
USES
Medicinal
Chest ailments, inflammations.
Other names:
Brazil - Genipapeiro
El Salvador - Tie dientes, Irayol
Guatemala Irayol
Kongo Goontongo, diambula
Mexico - Maluco, jagua blanco, jagua azul
Nicaragua - Tapaculo, Yigualti, gigaulti
Peru Palo Colorado
U.S. - Juniper, marmeladebox
Venezuela - Caruto
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun and Shango
Correlating Odu: Odi Ejionle, Eyioko
Ojuani, Iroso Osa, Irete Otura, Ika
Otrupon, Osa Okana, Osa Ogunda.
Rites of Palo
To banish evil spirits and negativity.
Description
Tree to 40 ft. high. The leaves are
lanceolate. Scented flowers; the fruit is a
globose to ovoid berry, gray turning
reddish brown at maturity; the pulp is juicy,
bittersweet, and astringent. The seeds are
numerous.
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Dalia Quiros-Moran
JAGEY MACHO
(Ficus crassinervia)
JAYAJABICO / NAKEDWOOD
(Colubrina reclinata)
Other names:
Cuba -Jagey
Other names:
Cuba Jayajabia, Palo amargo,
Carbonero, Carbonero de Costa
Puerto Rico Mabi
Lukumi Igi kikan
U.S. Soldier wood, Mabee, Smooth
snake back.
Description
Tree reaching heights of 60 ft. The leaves
are ovate.
JAIMIQUI / WILD DILLY
(Manilkara jaimiqui)
Description
Native tree found in high coastal areas,
reaching up to 30 ft. tall. The bark is
brownish orange, exfoliating in thin layers.
The wood is hard, heavy, brown color
towards the core. The leaves alternate,
elliptic to ovate lanceolate. The flowers in
clusters, petals hooded; fruit globose,
orange-red; seeds blackish, shiny.
Other names:
Cuba - Acana
Dominican Republic - Jaiqu, nisperillo,
nisperillo de hoja fina, jamiqu
Puerto Rico - Jaimiqu
U.S. - Wild sapodilla
Description
Evergreen tree or shrub has wood that is
heavy, hard, strong, and close- grained.
Found in coastal hammocks. Flowers are
light yellow and form drooping clusters.
The brown, rough-skinned fruit is globe
shaped. The leaves are leathery, dull, and
dark green. They cluster at the ends of the
branches.
USES
Medicinal
Fever, liver ailments.
Religious/Magical
To expel witchcraft
ingested.
that
has
been
USES
JAZMIN DE LA TIERRA / SPANISH
JASMINE
(Jasminum grandiflorum)
Medicinal
Fever, flu.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Odudua.
Used for both benefic and negative

spells.
Other names:
Cuba - Jazmn de cinco hojas, Jazmn
criollo, Jazmn de la Caridad
Lukumi - Alenyenyen
U.S. Poet's jasmine
JAYABACANA
(Pera oppositifolia)
Description
An evergreen shrub that produces dark
green, five to seven-foliate leaves and
fragrant, pedi-celled white flowers about
three-fourths of an inch in diameter, which
are borne in open clusters.
Other names:
Cuba
Jayabacana,
yabacana, yayabacana.
hayabacana,
USES
Description
Small, native tree found in hillsides. Grows
up to 24 ft. high. The leaves are large,
opposite.
Medicinal
Nervousness.
USES
Medicinal
Skin eruptions.
118
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshosi.
Correlating Odu: Obara Oshe
To expel negativity.
JAZMIN DEL CABO/GARDENIA

(Gardenia Jasminoides)
Other names:
Cuba Gardenia
U.S. Cape Jasmine
JIA BRAVA
(Casearea aculeta)
Description
Shrub that can grow 6'-8' with equal
spread. The leaves are dark to bright
green, opposite, glossy and leathery.
Blooms in mid-spring to early summer.
Flowers are white, turning to creamy
yellow as they age, and have a waxy feel.
They have a powerful, sweet fragrance.
Other names:
Cuba - Ja Brava, ja peluda, ja prieta.
Dominican Republic - Palo de avispas,
carambomba margabomba
Ecuador - Clavillo
Guatemala - Guacuco
Haiti - Piquant arada
Honduras - Escambrn, agua de arrea.
Mexico - Punteral, cedrn.
Per - Espina de demonio, supiecacha
Puerto Rico - Cambrn, rabo ratn
Venezuela - Espuela de gallo
USES
Medicinal
Fever, dysentery, ophthalmia.
Description
Small indigenous tree covered with fine
spines; leaves elliptical; flowers emerge
from under the leaves.
Religious/Magical
Orisha worship
Belongs to Obatala
Correlating Odu: Irete Ofun, Osa Meji.
USES
JIA AMARILLA
(Casearia ramiflora)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Other names:
Cuba - Ja,
Dominican Republic Palo blanco
JIA JIA: Agracejo.
Description
Indigenous small tree; leaves elliptical or
ovate; in flower from February through
March. It has no spines. Grows in rocky
soils near the coast.
JIBA
(Erythroxilon havanensi)
Other names:
Cuba - Arabo, arabo jib, arabo prieto,
arabo real.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Description
Indigenous tree found in calcareous soils.
The leaves are alternate, slender, ovate,
JIA BLANCA
(Casearia alba)
Description
Common shrub. The wood is pale yellow,
hard, compact and fine grain.
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Dalia Quiros-Moran
pale green underneath; the flowers are

small and white. Produces a red fruit well
liked by pigeons and parrots.
JIQUI
(Pera bumelifolia)
Other names:
Cuba Jequi, Jiqui de Ley
USES
Description
Indigenous tree found in all types of soil.
Reaches heights up to 40 ft. It is in flower
in March and fruits in July. The wood is
very hard, dark yellow.
Medicinal
Bile, bruises, contusions, fevers, tumor.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Inle, Orishaoko.
To ward off evil spirits.
USES
Medicinal
Colds, debility, internal ulcers.
JICAMA / CALOPOGONIUM
(Calopogonium coeruleum)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun.
Correlating Odu: Okana Obara, Osa
Okana.
To make attributes and paraphernalia.
To banish witchcraft.
Description
A sturdy, somewhat woody, climbing,
perennial legume. Stems twining. Leaves
alternate,
trifoliate.
Many-flowered,
axillary, spike-like raceme, color blue.
Pods linear-oblong, pubescent, impressed
between the seeds. Four to eight seeds,
compressed, shining.
JOBO / HUG PLUM

(Spondias mombin)
USES
Medicinal
Cysts, skin conditions inside the nose or
around nostrils.
Other names:
Arada - Akuko
Brazil - Cajazeira
Colombia - Jobo, ciruela calentana
Costa Rica - Jocote tronador, sismoyo
Cuba - Jobo hembra, Jobito, Obo
Kongo Grengerengue kunansieto
Lukumi Akikan, abba, okinkan, kinkao
Mexico - Ciruela de Mjico, ciruela del
pas
Puerto Rico - Jobo, jobo francs
U.S. - Java plum, tropical plum, spanish
plum
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
JICOTEA / FRINGETREE
(Chionanthus axilliflora)
Other names:
Cuba - Guaney
Description
Indigenous tree. The wood is solid,
compact, fine grain; color pale yellow with
streaks.
Description
A tree that can reach a height of 75 feet.
The trunk has deep incisions in the bark
that often produces a brown resinous
substance. The leaves and the flowers are
at the end of the branches. Before the tree
starts to flower it strips itself from most of
the leaves. The fruit, a 1.5 inch long oval
yellow plum, has a leathery skin and a thin
layer of fruit pulp with an exotic taste.
USES
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
120
Rites of Palo
USES
Medicinal
Diarrhea, eye inflammation, flatulence,
swollen feet, venereal diseases
JUAN CALIENTE: Bejuco Vergajo.

JUCARO: Arar.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Odudua, Elegba.
Correlating Odu: Ejionle Ogunda, Eyioko
Meji, Odi Ogunda, Irete Ogunda, Otura
Osa, and Iroso Meji.
For Babalu Aye rituals and ceremonies.
Rites of Palo
JUCARO BRAVO / BLACK OLIVE

(Bucida buceras)
Other names:
Cuba - Jcaro de ua.
Kongo - Totoine
Lukumi - Odde
Description
Densely crowned evergreen tree growing
to 45 ft. tall. Found in low coastal areas,
swamps, and riverbanks. Grey bark.
Leaves green, simple, and leathery. In
flower during the spring. Flowers greenish
yellow, and hang in slender spikes. The
fruits are small, black and one-seeded.
Seed is pubescent.
JOCUMA / FALSE MASTIC

(Sideroxiylon foetidissimum)
Other names:
Cuba - Jocuma, jocuma amarilla, caguan,
lechero.
Puerto Rico Tortugo amarillo
U.S. - Mastic, Wild olive
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Irete Ogunda.
Description
Tree that reaches heights of 30 to 60 feet,
with a trunk 15 to 20 inches in diameter,
round-topped
with
stout
spreading
branches. The bark is thin and reddish
brown in color; leaves oblong or pear
shaped, rounded at the end and narrowed
at the base, about one and one-half
inches long by three-quarters inch wide,
thick, firm, light green and smooth above,
paler below; flowers borne in clusters at
the ends of the twigs, and greenish yellow
or purplish in color; fruit fleshy, narrow and
elongated, prominently 10-ribbed, about
three-quarters inch long, and bright red;
yellow or brownish yellow wood, soft and
weak
but
heavy,
coarse-grained,
surrounded by a wide band of darker
colored sapwood.
JUCARO DE PLAYA: Arar.

JUCARO ESPINOSO: Arar.
JUNCIA / YELLOW NUTSEDGE
(Cyperus esculentus)
Other names:
Cuba - Chufa.
Description
Weed that grows to 1 ft. tall with triangular
3-sided unbranched smooth stems; grasslike leaves; yellowish-brown flowers with
long leaf-like bracts under umbrella-like
flower clusters; smooth, round, whitish
almond-flavored tubers produced at ends
of many rhizomes.
USES
Medicinal
Bruises, cuts, hernia, leprosy, wounds.
USES
Medicinal
Cold, fever, nervousness, stomach upset.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Ika, Iwori Yeku,
Otrupon Ika.
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Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
JUNCO: Camelote.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Shango, and Ogun.
Rites of Palo
Taboo for the Nganga.
JUNCO MARINO / JERUSALEM THORN

Other names:
Colombia - Calentano, Yabo
Cuba - Espinillo, palo de rayo.
Dominican Republic - Cambrn
Mexico - Retama, junco, palo verde
Nicaragua - Acacia de agijote, espino
real de Espaa
Puerto Rico - Flor de rayo, palo de rayo
Venezuela - Espinillo de Espaa
Description
Tree noted for its striking yellow flowers
and unusual foliage. The green bark and
branches are armed with thorns, up to an
inch in length. The leaves are compound,
small and strap-like, resembling floppy,
narrow feathers. The flowers are
clustered, yellow, and pea-like, appearing
in spring and summer. The fruit is hard,
brown pods 3-4 inches in length.
USES
Medicinal
Epilepsy, cancerous ulcers.
Magical/Religious
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya.
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Ejionle.
JURUBAMA
(Hebestigma cubense)
Other names:
Cuba -Jurabaina, frijolillo, cucharillo,
guam candeln, guam pin.
Description
Indigenous perennial tree found in
seasonally deciduous forests. Grows up to
35 ft. high. The leaves are dark green
above, light green underneath. The
abundant flowers are produced in
racemes.
122
LECHERA / POISON SPURGE

(Euphorbia cotinifolia)
LAUREL / FICUS
(Ficus nitida)
Other names:
Colombia - Barrabas lindero, naedero,
lorencillo.
Cuba - Hierba lechera, lechera, hierba
mala
Guatemala - Hierba mala
Mexico - Mala mujer, tropillo, pioncillo,
mata gallina.
Nicaragua - Sapo
Per - Yuquilla
Puerto Rico - Carrasco
U.S. Caribbean copper plant
Venezuela - Lechera
Other names:
Cuba - Laurel, Laurel de la India.
Kongo - Ocereke
Lukumi Igginile itiri
Description
Tree up to 30 ft. high, has smooth gray
bark, aerial roots, upright growing
branches, and very dense foliage.
USES
Description
Shrub that grows up to 10 feet tall. The
flexible purplish stems hold copperypurple thin-fleshy broad leaves. Loose
flower clusters have small white bracts in
the spring, white. The plant produces a
poisonous milky sap.
Medicinal
Typhoid fever.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango
Correlating Odu: Okana Irete, Otura
Ojuani.
Rites of Palo
Cleansings of persons and the

household to banish negativity.
USES
Medicinal
Laxative.
Religious/Magical
Orisha worship
Belongs to Elegba
LAVANDA / LAVENDER
(Lavendula officinalis)
LECHUGA / LETTUCE
(Lactuca sativa)
Other names:
Cuba - Espliego.
Other names:
Lukumi Ilenke, Ogo yeye
Puerto Rico - Achicoria
Description
A perennial shrub of the mint family; may
reach 5 feet in height. The leaves are
oblong-linear to lanceolate, up to 1.5
inches long, somewhat hairy. Flower
spikes may reach up to 3 feet.
Description
Cultivated cool-season annual with milky
sap and glabrous (hairless) leaves that
grow in a basal rosette at first, then either
in a loose or a tightly rolled head, and
eventually along an upright stem that
supports the flowers.
USES
Medicinal
Colic and headaches.
Religious/Magical
Burned as incense to banish negativity
and attract good fortune.
Other
Insect repellent
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Dalia Quiros-Moran
LEGAA DE AURA / LEADWORT

(Plumbago scandens)
USES
Medicinal
Aches.
Other names:
Cuba - Malacara
Haiti
Zb-a-Djab,
Dentelaire
Sarmenteuse, Zb-brlante
Lukumi Ewe iwago, ikolekoke
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya, Oshun
Correlating Odu: Odi Meji

Description
A half-hardy herbaceous climbing, halfshrubby plant, with large trusses of paleblue flowers, which are in bloom
continuously through the summer.
LECHUGA CIMARRONA: Lechuguilla
USES
LECHUGA DE MAR / SEA LETTUCE

(Ulva lactuca)
Medicinal
Infantile diarrhea,
toothache.
Other names:
Cuba - Alga sensitiva.
Lukumi -Oyoro
itch,
rheumatism,
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.

household.
Description
Marine algae that resembles the segment
of a tender lettuce.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya
LENGUA DE MUJERES / CREEPING

CHARLEY
(Pilea nummularifolia)
LECHUGUILLA / WATER LETTUCE

(Pistia stratiotes)
Other names:
Brazil - Dinheiro em penca
Cuba - Cuba libre.
Other names:
Brazil Hierba de Santa Luzia
Cuba - Lechuga cimarrona.
Puerto Rico Lechuguilla de Rio
Description
A creeping plant with small round pale
green leaves.
Description
Aquatic plant that resembles a floating
open head of lettuce. Found in rivers,
lakes and ponds. It has very thick leaves.
The leaves are light dull green, are hairy,
and are ridged. There are no leaf stalks.
The roots are light-colored and feathery.
Its flowers are inconspicuous.
USES
Medicinal
Rheumatism
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba.
USES
Medicinal
Asthma, cough, dysentery, hemorrhoids.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun, Yemaya.
124
LENGUA DE VACA / MOTHER IN

LAW'S TONGUE
(Sanseveria guineensis)
USES
Medicinal
Fevers, infections, malaria, rheumatic
conditions, scurvy, sore throats.
Other names:
Cuba - Piel de maj y sanseviera.
Haiti - Fy zory bourik
Puerto Rico - Capaillo
Religious/Magical
For spells
Description
Cultivated plant. Grows Up to 4 ft. The
leaves are opposite, slender, smooth.
White flowers on an unbranched spike.
Other
Insect repellent, potpourri, polishing
bronze and other metals, stain removal.
LINARIA / YELLOW TOADFLAX
(Linaria vulgaris)
USES
Medicinal
Bronchitis.
Other names:
U.S. Butter and eggs.
Religious/ Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala, Ogun.
Planted outside the house for protection.
Description
Creeping rooted perennial to 1 ft. tall; the
stalk less leaves are narrow and pointed
at both ends; bright yellow "snapdragonlike" flowers with an orange spot on the
lower lip.
LIMO DE MAR / SEA WEED

Description
Term loosely applied to the many plants
found growing in the oceans. Seaweeds,
however, are not weeds, but marine algae.
Algae are among the plants that live in
water. As their name implies, seaweeds
are marine and live in salty water. They
are the green, brown, and red.
USES
USES
Description
Green floating vegetable found in rivers.
Medicinal
Hepatitis, jaundice, liver ailments, piles,
scrofula.
LINO DE RIO / SHINING PONDWEED
(Potamogeton lucens)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Infuriates Yemaya.
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Meji.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Oyekun Iwori, Irete
Ojuani.
To appease Oshun or get her attention.
Rites of Palo
LIMON / LEMON
(Citrus limonum)
Other names:
Brazil - Limo
Haiti - Sitwon
Kongo Koronko
Lukumi Oroco, Olombo
Description
An evergreen aromatic shrub growing to
12 ft.. It is in leaf all year, in flower all year.
Scented flowers. Fruits have abundant
pulp and are acrid tasting.
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Dalia Quiros-Moran
LIRIO / WHITE FRANGIPANI

(Plumeria alba)
ailments,
fever,
gastro-intestinal
disturbances, gonorrhea, hypertension,
infection,
inflammation,
intestinal
parasites, insect bites, kidney ailments,
orthopedic ailments, piles, pulmonary
ailments, reptile bites, skin ailments, sore,
stings, throat ailments, tumor, ulcers,
urinary ailments, warts, women's ailments,
wounds.
Other names:
Brazil Jasmin Manga
Colombia - Amancayo, azuceno
Cuba - Lirio blanco, lirio silvestre, alel
blanco, atabaiba
Dominican Republic - Alel, flor de cerro,
ataiba
Kongo Tunkanso
Lukumi Peregun fun fun
Mexico - Sabanicte, Amapola de Venus
Nicaragua - Flor de pan
Puerto Rico - Tabaiba, tapaiba
Venezuela - Amapola
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Odua.
Correlating Odu: Okana Meji.
For amulets and relics.
Description
Trees growing up to 25 ft. high. The
flowers are white. Produce a milky sap.
LLANTEN CIMARRON / DWARF

SWORDS
(Echinodorus grisebachu)
USES
Other names:
Cuba - Llantn de agua.
Lukumi Sheshere
U.S. Water Plantain
Medicinal
Abscess, dropsy, fever, gum disease,
herpes, itch, scabies, skin, typhoid cough,
venereal diseases, warts.
Description
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
Correlating Odu: Obara Meji and Okana
Osa.
Aquatic perennial; the leaves are erect,

resembling the great plantain plant.
USES
Medicinal
Gum diseases, inflammation, kidney and
liver ailments.
LLANTEN / GREAT PLANTAIN

(Plantago major)
Other names:
Haiti - Planten
U.S. - Plantain
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Description
Perennial plant with a fibrous taproot. The
oval, ribbed, short-stemmed leaves form
basal rosettes which tend to hug the
ground, may grow up to about 6" long and
4" wide. The flower stalks bear densely
packed greenish white flowers each of
which will become a small capsule-like
seedpod containing 10 to 20 seeds.
LLEREN/ ARROW ROOT

(Galathea Allouia)
Other names:
Cuba Leiren, Llerenes, Yeren
Description
Perennial with an erect stem from which a
body of serrated, obovate leaves emerge;
ending in a long spike with small white
flowers. The roots are tuberous,
subterraneous, similar to a yam.
USES
Medicinal
Bladder stones, blisters, boils, bruises,
bug bite, burns, cancer, catarrh, children's
ailments, cold, cough, debility, diabetes,
diarrhea, dysentery, ear ailments, eye
126
USES
Medicinal
Toothaches.
Religious/ Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Irete Osa.
LOBELIA / GREAT BLUE LOBELIA
(Lobelia syphyllitica)
Other names:
U.S. Asthma weed, Indian Tobacco,
Wild Tobacco
Description
Erect, annual or perennial herbs; leaves
alternate, simple; flowers white, scarlet, or
blue, 5-parted, tubular and irregularshaped with 2 lips; fruit a capsule.
USES
Medicinal
Chest ailments, venereal diseases.
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Dalia Quiros-Moran
Description
Sub canopy tree. Bark smooth and dark
colored, with horizontal striations. Trunk
cylindrical and mostly straight. Fruits pale
green with one lobe. The wood is hard,
aromatic, pinkish white.
MABA: Ebano carbonero.

MABI: Bibijagua, Bijragua.
MABOA / WHITE POISON WOOD
(Cameraria latifolia)
USES
Other names:
Cuba - Maboa, Maboa de loma, maboa
comn
Kongo - Malembe
Lukumi Leshu Ibaye
U.S. - Bastard manchineel
Medicinal
Erysipelas, Toothaches.
MANACABO: Caimitillo
MADRESELVA / JAPANESE
HONEYSUCKLE
(Lonicera japonica)
Description
Small tree with elliptical leaves, the
flowers are white, wood strong and
compact, ash color. Found in calcareous
hills close to the ocean. Produces a highly
poisonous milky sap.
Other names:
Cuba - Madreselva
U.S. - Hall's Honeysuckle
USES
Description
High-climbing or trailing woody vine with
attractive flowers. The flowers of this plant
are perfect, fragrant, and occur on short
stalks. The flowers are white becoming
cream colored or pinkish-purple.
Medicinal
Tooth cavities, leprosy, and warts.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala and Ogun.
USES
MACAGUA / FALSE BREADNUT

(Psendolmedia spuria)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Odua.
Rites of Palo
Other names:
Dominican Republic - Palo de leche,
macao.
Guatemala - Manax
Haiti - Bois mrise
Puerto Rico - Negra lora.
MAGEY / CUBAN HEMP

(Furcraea cubensis)
Description
Indigenous tree found in hammocks and
hills. The flowers are entire. It reaches up
to 30 ft. high. The wood is white, and the
core is dark.
Other names:
Lukumi - Ikeri
Description
Indigenous plant found in rocky soils. The
leaves are lanceolate, rigid, slightly
concave and smooth, green. The flowers
in racemes along the branches.
USES
Medicinal
Debility.
MACURIJE / COBYWOOD
(Matayba oppositifolia)
Other names:
Puerto Rico - Doncella
128
USES
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya
Medicinal
Asthma, bronchitis, colds, contusions,
dislocated joints, internal tumors, muscle
cramps, rheumatic pains.
MAGEY SILVESTRE: See Bayoneta
Religious/Magical
Orisha worship
Belongs to Ogun, Yemaya.
Correlating Odu: Iwori Iroso, Odi Iroso,
Otrupon Ika, Otura Iroso, Otura Obara,
Okana Ika, and Okana Ofun.
MAIZ / MAIZE
(Zea mays)
Other names:
Arada Dli
Brazil - Milho
Haiti - Mayi
Lukumi - Agbado
MALACARA / LEADWORT
(Plumbago scandens)
Other names:
Colombia Bella Emilia, Yerba del Diablo
Cuba - Jazminillo, legaa de aura.
El Salvador - Guacochile
Lukumi Mubino
Mexico Canutillo, Jazmn Azul, Muela de
Alacran
Peru Sarna Vejiguilla
Description
An annual herb with brood, linear
lanceolate leaves, unisexual flowers. The
spike on the top of plant consists of male
flowers; the spadix in the leaf axis consists
of female flowers.
USES
Description
Evergreen shrub, up to 4 feet tall with long
climbing branches. The leaves are ovate,
white flowers.
Medicinal
Ammonia in the urine, asthma, bloating,
cystitis, heart ailments, hypertension
incontinence, leprosy, urinary infections
and calculi.
USES
Medicinal
Chest, colic, cold, erysipelas, gangrene,
itch, leprosy, Rheumatism, stomachache,
toothache, tumor, wart.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Okana Ojuani, Okana
Osa, Obara Otrupon, Otrupon Odi, Iwori
Ojuani.
As offerings for the Orishas.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Iroso Odi.
For spells to cause chaos and turmoil.
MAJAGUA / MAHOE
(Pariti tiliaceum)
MALAMBO, MELAMBO: Palo malambo
Other names:
Cuba - Majagua hembra.
Kongo Musenguene, Gusinga, Musinga
U.S. Sea hibiscus, Cottonwood, Beach
hibiscus
MALANGA / ARROWLEAF
(Xanthosoma sagittifolium)
Other names:
Arada Logo asasu
Brazil Taioba, mangara
Haiti - Pediveau Sagitte
Description
Coastal tree with a spreading crown found
on sand dunes and ridges above the
beach, associated with mangroves, or
sometimes around freshwater streams. It
has heart-shaped leaves and bright yellow
flowers.
129
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Kongo Nkumbia, Mbi nkanda, gankua

Lukumi Ewe Ikoko
Puerto Rico - Yautia
U.S. Elephant Ear
Description
Term used for the corn plant that for not
been cultivated properly does not produce
good corn, and it is cut before maturity to
feed the cattle.
Description
Herbaceous perennial cultivated for its
edible tubers; their yellow or pinkish flesh
is dense and starchy. The green leaves
are large, arrow shaped with long petioles;
stem very short.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba.
Correlating Odu: Obara Ejionle, Oshe
Iwori, and Okana Ojuani.
For spells to attract prosperity
USES
Medicinal
Burns, mental debility, nose polyps, sores,
tumors.
MALVA BLANCA / SLEEPY MORNING

(Waltheria americana)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Ejionle, Irete
Okana.
Offerings for the orishas.
MALANGUILLA / ARROWHEAD
(Sagittaria lancifolia)
Other names:
Arada - Afidemi
Kongo Dubue
Lukumi Lanla, Dede fun, ewe oshe potu.
Mexico - Malva, malva del monte
Panama - Friega plato, Hierba de soldado
Puerto Rico - Basora prieta, malvavisco
U.S. - Waltheria
Venezuela - Bretnica
Other names:
Cuba - Malanguilla de costa, flecha de
agua, flechera.
U.S. - Wapatoo
Description
Common weed with tormentose hairy
leaves, serrate, bright green. The flowers
are fragrant, growing in clusters, yellow.
Description
Aquatic plant that has three different
leaves: aerial (arrow shaped), floating
(round), and submerged (ribbon like).
Found in ponds and swamps.
USES
Medicinal
Torpid tumors, toxins, whites.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
Correlating Odu: Iroso Ejionle, Ojuani
Irete, Oshe Eyioko, and Otrupon Ogunda.
Ritual baths to banish witchcraft.
USES
Medicinal
Abscess, boil, inflammation, insect bite,
itch, scrofula, skin, sore, sore throat.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya.
MALVA DE COCHINOS / JELLY LEAF

(Sida rhombifolia)
MALOJA
Other names:
Cuba - Maz, yerba del par y de guinea.
Lukumi Ewe eshin
Other names:
Argentina - Tebincha
130
Costa Rica - Escobilla

Dominican Republic Malva
Per - Limpion
Mexico - Huinari, huinar, huinare
Nicaragua - Escoba amarilla
U.S. Paddy's Lucern, Queensland hemp
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Oshe, Odi

Ogunda, Okana Oshe, Iroso Ojuani,
Otrupon Ogunda and Ojuani Osa.
For purification baths to banish negativity.
MALVAVISCO / MARSHMALLOW
(Althaea officinalis)
Description
Evergreen shrub. The stem is erect and
branching. It grows up to 6 ft high by 6 ft
wide. The leaves are narrow, oval to
rhomboid, alternate, serrate and white
underneath; the flowers are yellow.
Other names:
Cuba - Majagilla
U.S. - White mallow
Description
Herbaceous plant growing to 6 ft. tall; pale
lilac-pink five-petalled flowers on stems
with heart-shaped leaves.
USES
Medicinal
Diarrhea, dyspepsia, pain, rheumatism,
skin, stomach ailments, tuberculosis,
tumor.
USES
Medicinal
Bruises, chest ailments, cough, cuts,
dysentery, sore throat, sprains, wounds.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Oshe and Osa
Meji.
MALVIRA / TEXASPLUME
(Bauhinia megalandra)
MALVA TE / SLIPPERY BURR

(Corchorus siliquosus)
Other names:
Cuba - Flor de azufre, gorro de Napolen.
Kongo Konlobanto
Lukumi Kiyo
Venezuela Urape Blanco
US Petite Flamboyant Bauhinia
Other names:
El Salvador - T de perla
Haiti - Bal-glis, Bal-lalou, ti-lalou, balsavane, petit-balai
Kongo Dubue
Lukumi - Dede
Mexico - Malva t
Panama - T
Puerto Rico - Escoba blanca
U.S. - Jute
Description
Ornamental shrub. The leaves are
globular, hairy underneath; the flowers are
large, yellow and dark read at the base.
USES
Description
Coastal sub shrub, common in calcareous
soils. The leaves are ovate, serrate;
flowers bright yellow. The fruit is green,
black when mature.
Medicinal
Excessive oils in scalp, scalp irritation.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
USES
MAMEY COLORADO
(Calocarpum Sapota)
Medicinal
Chest
ailments,
inflammation,
nervousness, venereal diseases.
Other names:
Brazil - Sapota
Colombia - Mamey colorado
Costa Rica - Zapotillo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango.
131
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Cuba - Mamey
Ecuador - Mamey colorado
Haiti - Grand sapotiller
Kongo Nyumba, Machafio, Nini Yanga
Lukumi - Emi
Mexico - Mamey colorado, lava-zapote,
zapote, zapote mamey
Panama - Mamey de tierra
Puerto Rico - Mamey rojo, zapote
U.S. - Mamee sapote, marmalade-fruit,
sapote
Venezuela - Mamey Colorado
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orunla, Ibeji.
MAMONCILLO / SPANISH LIME
(Melicocca bijuga)
Other names:
Cuba - Anoncillo.
Haiti - Kenp
Lukumi Omoyla, Omu
Description
Large erect tree; neatly veined leaves,
obovate and usually pointed at the tip, 12
inches in length by 4 inches in width,
closely crowded at the ends of the
branches, light green on the upper surface
and lighter green or brownish beneath.
Description
A medium-sized to large tree often planted
along roadsides. The small, greenishwhite, fragrant flowers are borne in
panicles from the branch tips at the
beginning of the rainy season. The ovoid
fruit measures a little over 1 inch in length.
Inside the tight, thin skin, which is easily
cracked by the teeth, lies a thin layer of
sweet-tart yellow pulp surrounding a large
ovoid seed.
USES
Medicinal
Colitis, chronic ulcers, rheumatism, warts.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Oshun, and Oya.
Correlating Odu: Otura Odi
For ritual baths to attract prosperity

and overcome difficulties.
Medicinal
Gangrene, digestive complaints, ulcers,
lung and liver ailments, skin diseases,
herpes.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ibeji.
Correlating Odu: Iwori Yeku, Otura Odi,
Otura Iroso.
MAMEY DE SANTO DOMINGO / MAMEY

(Mammea americana)
Other names:
Cuba - Mamey amarillo
Haiti - Abriko-Peyi, Abrikot, Zabriko
MANAJU / CUBAN MANGOSTEEN

(Rheedia aristata)
Description
Evergreen tree reaching up to 70 feet tall.
Elliptic leaves, bright green. The fruit
grows up to the size of a person's head,
yellow flesh, sweet, very pleasant to the
taste. Wood is reddish brown.
Other names:
Kongo Mopusua
Lukumi - Neri
Description
Native tree reaching up to 35 ft. The trunk
bears one inch diameter, reddish wood;
leaves sharp-tipped; lateral roots; yellow,
sub acid fruits. It is in flower during the
spring.
USES
Medicinal
Cough,
dyspepsia,
eczema,
fever,
psoriasis, rashes, sore, stomach ailments,
wound.
132
USES
Venezuela - Mangle colorado
Medicinal
Bruises, contusions, tetanus, wound.
Description
A tree found in brackish or salt water
along the shores, inland rivers and creeks.
It is a low, bushy, round-topped tree up to
30 feet in height, with many aerial roots;
sometimes a tree up to 80 feet in height
with a straight trunk clear for 40 feet or
more, and a narrow top, or head. The
branchlets are pithy, reddish brown,
becoming later a light reddish gray and
roughened. The leaves are oval or
elliptical, rounded at the outer end and
narrowing toward the base, dark green
and very shiny on the upper surface, thick.
The flowers are pale yellow, with four
petals, about an inch in diameter, usually
two or three in a cluster, springing from
the leaf axils. The fruit is a leathery brown
berry, about one inch long, hanging,
slightly roughened, and containing a seed
which generally germinates before the fruit
falls. The wood is very hard and heavy,
strong, dark-reddish brown streaked with
lighter brown, surrounded by lighter
sapwood.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ibeji.
Correlating Odu: Irete Osa.
Rites of Palo
To ward off illness

MANCA MONTERO: Aroma Ua de
Gato
MANDARINA/MANDARINE
(Citrus marmorona)
Description
Tree smaller or equal in size than the
sweet orange, according to the variety.
May reach a height of 25 ft. The tree is
thorny with slender twigs. The leaves have
minute, rounded teeth and narrow
petioles. The flowers are single, or
together in the leaf axils. The fruit is
oblate, bright orange, turning red/orange
when mature. The seed are green inside,
small and pointed at one edge.
USES
Medicinal
Rheuma, impotence, blood toxins, angina
and tuberculosis, leprosy.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha worship
Belongs to Yemaya, Inle, and Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Otura Osa, Oshe Otura.
Medicinal
Colds, digestive problems, excess fluid,
fever, insomnia, irritability, sores, stress.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Correlated to Odu: Eyioko Odi
MANGLE PRIETO / BLACK MANGROVE

(Avicennia nitida)
MANGLE / RED MANGROVE

(Rhizophora mangle)
Other names:
Colombia - Manglesito
Costa Rica - Columnate
Cuba - Cativo mangle.
Mexico Puyete
Panama Mangle Salado
U.S. Olive Mangrove, Salt Pond
Other names:
Arada - Wewe
Costa Rica - Mangle gateador
Cuba - Mangle comn, mangle colorado,
mangle rojo, mangle de ua.
Dominican Republic - Mangle rojo
Guatemala - Mangle rojo
Kongo Musi Kwilo
Lukumi Ewe Atiodo, Kasioro
Panama -Mangle salado
Puerto Rico - Mangle zapatero
Description
Tree that may grow to 60 feet with a trunk
diameter of 2 feet, but it is usually smaller.
133
Dalia Quiros-Moran
The leaves are opposite on the stems,

thick and leathery, dark green or yellowgreen above, and downy beneath. Salt
glands on the underneath side secrete
salt. The leaves are elliptical, from 1-5
inches in length. The flowers are white,
fragrant, found in clusters at the growing
tips. The fruits are flat, and approximately
one inch long. The color is green and the
pod is covered with down. The bark is
thick, dark brown or blackish, with rough
irregular flattened scales. Twigs are
grayish in color and smooth, with
enlargements at the joints.
MANGO MACHO
Description See "Mango"
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
Correlating Odu: Ika Iroso, Ofun Yeku.
MANI / PEANUT
(Arachis hypogaea)
USES
Other names:
Arada Azo
Brazil Amendou Verdadeiro
Haiti Pistache
Kongo Mindo, Guba
Lukumi Epa, Epamilbo, Efa, Ewa, Busia
Mexico - Cacahuate
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun.
Correlating Odu: Obara Eyioko.
MANGO
(Mangifera indica)
Description
Annual growing to 1 foot. Yellow flowers.
Other names:
Brazil - Mangueira
Haiti - Mang
Kongo Ema Benga
Lukumi Oro, Eleso, Orun Beke
USES
Medicinal
Hemorrhoids. Chest ailments.
Description
A tall tree growing up to 100 feet with a
dense, heavy crown. The evergreen
drooping leaves resemble those of the
peach tree. Coppery to purplish-red at first
but becoming green at maturity, they are
lance-shaped and often slightly curved.
The flowers of mango, small ivory and
very numerous, and fruit clusters hang
outside the foliage canopy.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Babalu Aye. Used for rituals
and ceremonies of this Orisha.
Correlating Odu: Okana Osa, Irete
Otrupon, Otrupon Obara, Otrupon Yeku,
Ofun Yeku.
MANI CIMARRON / WILD PEANUT
(Cassia diphylla)
USES
Other names:
Puerto Rico Hediondilla, Zarzabacoa
Medicinal
Contusions, constipation, fever, gum
disease,
hemorrhage,
high
blood
pressure,
lacerations,
poor
blood
circulation.
Description
Common herb; grows in sandy savannas.
The leaves and flowers resemble those of
the peanut plant.
Religious/ Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Odi Okana and Ojuani
Iwori.
Used for offerings to all the Orishas.

134
USES
MANTO DE LA VIRGEN / COLEUS

(Coleus blumei)
Medicinal
Dysentery and other intestinal ailments.
Other names:
Lukumi - Oshare
U.S. Painted Nettle
MANO PILON
(Mouriri Valenzuela)
Description
Ornamental plants. They are best known
for their bright colors, and variety of foliage
forms. The leaves are large, dentate and
the flowers are produced in terminal
racemes.
Other names:
Cuba - Lebrero, torcido, yaya macho.
Lukumi Morele, Owodon
Description
Indigenous tree; yellowish brown wood
with dark streaks, hard, heavy and
compact, fibrous, fine grain.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun.
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Otrupon
To make attributes and paraphernalia.
MANZANILLA
(Chysanthellum americanum)
Other names:
Cuba - Manzanilla, manzanilla de la tierra,
manzanilla del pas.
Kongo- Dunbuande
Lukumi - Nikirio
MANTO / COLUMBINE
(Aquilegia Vulgaris)
Description
Annual scented herb of the daisy family composite - till 20 inches tall. Erect
glabrous stems. Divided leaves, toothedlobed. Yellow florets.
Description
Perennial growing up to 3 ft. high. It is in
flower from April to July, and the seeds
ripen from July to August. Found in moist
shady positions, especially on calcareous
soils or fenland peat.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Allergies,
arthritis,
bile,
circulatory
diseases, conjunctivitis, colic, dermatitis,
difficult digestions, disease of the liver,
fats of the blood, gas, gastritis, gout,
grains, hepatic ailments, insomnia,
intestinal spasms, menstruation pains,
nervousness, skin burns, tired eyes,
ulcers, uric acid, vaginal infections,
wounds
Medicinal:
Because of its toxic properties, this plant
should not be taken internally without
expert advice
Affections of the nervous system, skin
diseases.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oya.
Religious /Magical:
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Osa.
To attract prosperity and love.
Sprinkled around the household to

banish negativity.
Other
External body parasites
135
Dalia Quiros-Moran
MANZANILLO / MANCHINCEL
(Hippomane mancinella)
Description
A tree that grows up to 45 feet in height
and has a thick and tortuous trunk and
branches so winding that they frequently
reach the ground. Frequently found
growing wild on the drier sandy soils.
Other names:
Costa Rica Manzanillo de Playa
Cuba - Arbol del diablo, manzanillo de
costa, pinipiche y sargazo.
USES
Description
A tree reaching up to 15 meters high with
alternate, shiny green leaves and spikes
of small greenish flowers. Its fruits are
green or greenish-yellow when ripe.
Medicinal
Warts, diarrhea, dysentery, diarrhea,
whites, skin infections, syphilis, mouth
ulcers, throat problems, wounds, asthma,
diabetes, muscular debility, urinary
disorders, eczema, psoriasis, scrofula,
venereal diseases, impotency, bronchitis,
cough, toxins, influenza.
USES
Medicinal
Cardiac ailments, syphilis.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun, Inle, and Shango.
Rites of Palo
Religious/Magical
It has negative properties
MARABU / BOTTLE BRUSH TREE
(Dichostachys glomerata)
Other names:
Cuba - Aroma francesa, espina del diablo,
aroma, aroma blanca.
MARAVILLA / FOUR O'CLOCK

(Mirabilis jalapa)
Other names:
Cuba - Jalapa
Haiti - Zb Katr
Kongo - Boddule
Lukumi Ewe Ewa, inkuayo
Mexico - Trompetilla
Description
A spiny savannah shrub, forming thickets
on scrub land and common in sandy
areas. The flowers are very distinctive,
blooming from March to July. They have
blunt thorny spikes. The timber is hard and
tough.
Description
Herb. Flowers and fruits almost throughout
the year. Abundantly found in plains not
seen in forests.
USES
Medicinal
Acne, eczema.
USES
MARAON /CASHEW
(Anacardium occidentale)
Medicinal
Conjunctivitis, fungal infections, intestinal
ailments.
Other names:
Arada - Gegalise
Brazil - Cajueiro
Colombia - Merey
Dominican Republic - Cacahuil, cajuil
Guatemala - Jocote maraon
Haiti - Pom Kajou, Noix-Cajou, Pomme
d'Acajou
Peru - Casho
U.S. Cashew -nut.
Venezuela - Caujil
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala, Yewa, Oya, Orunla.
Correlating Odu: Okana Otrupon, Otrupon
Obara, Eyioko Ogunda, Ojuani Obara.
136

MARAVILLA
See."Maravilla"
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun, Yemaya.
Correlating Odu: Obara Ogunda.
AMARILLA
MARIPOSA / BUTTERFLY GINGER

(Hedychium coronarium)
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun.
Used to make Ogun fiery.
Rites of Palo
To make the spirits fiery.
Other names:
Kongo Kanda, Vititi Nkangriso
Lukumi Balaba, Aroao
Description
Perennial growing to 1.5m by 1m. Frost
tender. The flowers are white and have a
delicious perfume which is most
pronounced towards evening. Grows in
moist places along streams and on forest
edges.
MARAVILLA BLANCA See "Maravilla"

USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
USES
Medicinal
Fever, indigestion, rheumatism.
MARAVILLA PUNZO See. "Maravilla"
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango
MARPACIFICO / HIBISCUS
(Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
Other names:
Brazil - Resplandor, papoula.
Colombia -Resucit
Cuba - Borrachona, amapola, cupido,
guasintn, flor de chivo, mar serena, leche
de Venus, malva
de china, sangre de adonis.
Dominican Republic - Sangre de Cristo,
cayena.
El Salvador - Clavel japons.
Haiti - Shoublak
Hawaii -Red hibiscus.
Honduras -Campana
Jamaica - Shoe-black
Mexico - Tulipn
Panama - Papo
Puerto Rico - Amapola, pavn, candel,
candelada, carta abierta, marimoa,
hibisco.
U.S. - Chinese hibiscus, Chinese-rose.
Virgin Islands - Chinese-rose
MARILOPE / YELLOW ADLER

(Turnera ulmifolia)
Other names:
Colombia - Malva
Cuba - Maria Lopez, Marilope
Mexico - Clavel de Oro, clavndula
Nicaragua - Maria Lopez, San Juan,
Margarita de los campos, Oreja de coyote
U.S. Ram goat, dash along
Description
A perennial, dense, compact shrub that
reaches 2 feet in height. The leaves are
deep green, elm-like and conspicuous;
yellow flowers.
USES
Medicinal
Chest ailments, indigestion, menstrual
problems.
137
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Mexico - Lentepilla
Puerto Rico Perejil de Tierra
U.S. Pepper weed, peppergrass
Description
Ornamental shrub growing to 15 feet.
There are numerous varieties of single
and double flowers of diverse colors; red,
yellow, cream, salmon, etc. Ovoid leaves,
thick and unevenly dentated.
Description
An annual weed that develops as a basal
rosette initially, eventually producing white
flowering stems that have a bottle-brush
appearance.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Cough, Fever, Hoarseness.
Medicinal
Catarrh, Cold, colic, diabetes, dysentery,
kidney and liver ailments, rheumatism,
ringworm, scabies, scurvy, sores, stomach
ailments, intestinal parasites, urinary track
stones, and worms.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Odudua, Inle.
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Meji, and Odi
Meji, Ofun Odi.
Rites of Palo

household.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Babalu Aye.
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Osa.
For ritual baths to banish negativity.
MARRUBIO BLANCO / HOREHOUND

(Marrubium vulgare)
Other names:
U.S. - Common horehound,
horehound, horehound.
MATANEGRO
(Rourea glabra)
Other names:
Cuba - Matanegro, bejuco Baracoa,
bergajo, Juan caliente, mantequilla.
El Salvador Canjura
Lukumi - Konri
Mexico - Palo de chilillo
Puerto Rico - Juan Caliente
white
Description
Spreading perennial herb. The plant
reaches a height of almost 3 feet tall and
is characterized by white, pubescent
leaves, woolly stems, and continually
blooming white flowers. Found in dry
sandy soils and sunny spots.
Description
Climbing vine. The leaves are glossy;
yellow
fruit.
Commonly
found
in
calcareous soils and near low-level
shores. The stems of this plant were used
as whips by the European colonizers
during the slave trade period in the
Americas.
USES
Medicinal
Asthma,
coughs,
colds,
bronchitis,
digestive complaints, intestinal worms,
sore throats, and skin irritations.
USES
Religious/Magical
In incense for protection.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya.
MASTUERZO / DWARF HORSEWEED

(Lepidium virginicum)
Other names:
Cuba - Sabeleccin.
Haiti - Kreson danwa
Lukumi Eribo
138
MAZORQUILLA / BROWNE'S
BLECHUM
(Blechum brownei)
U.S. - Balm, Balm mint, Harden balm,

Gentle balm, Lemon balm, Melissa, Sweet
balm
Description
Erect annual plant, less than 2 ft. tall,
branched; leaves ovate, rounded at base;
spikes dense, greenish or whitish; corolla
white or pale violet.
Description
Erect perennial herb. The plants grow in
clumps to a height of about 2 feet, and the
bright green crinkled leaves possess a
fragrant lemon like odor.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Fever.
Medicinal
Catarrh, digestive complaints, cramps,
fever, flatulence, headaches, hysteria,
influenza, light head, nervousness,
palpitations, toothaches, vomiting.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Yemaya and Shango.
MELON DE AGUA/WATERMELON
(Citrullus citrulls)
MEJORANA / MARJORAM
(Origanum majorana)
Other names:
Brazil - Melancia
Cuba - Sanda.
Haiti - Melon dlo
Kongo Machafio suri mamba
Lukumi - Egusi Agbe
Puerto Rico Patilla, Sandia
Description
Perennial herb. The plants are 1 to 2 feet
in height, with oblong to ovate, somewhat
hairy leaves. Leaves and tender stems are
fragrant and spicy. Scented whitish
flowers.
Description
Annual climber growing to 3 ft. It is in
flower from July to September, and the
seeds ripen from August to October.
USES
Medicinal
Anxiety, arthritis, bronchial complaints,
colds, digestive upsets, ear ailments,
genital herpes, insomnia, muscular pain,
painful menstruation, sprains, stiff joints,
tension headaches.
USES
Medicinal
Abrasions,
body
parasites,
tapeworms, tired eyes.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Obatala, Yemaya.
Correlating Odu: Okana Meji, Otrupon
Otura, and Osa Odi.
When this plant grows abundantly

denotes prosperity and riches; if it
dies or does not take when first
planted it foretells the opposite.
For protection of the household.
burns,
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya.
Correlating Odu: Oyekun Otrupo,
Iwori.
For ritual baths to ward off

accidents, calamity, hostility
The seeds in amulets to attract

fortune.
MELISA / LEMON BALM

(Melissa officinalis)
Other names:
Cuba Toronjil
Mexico Abejera, Cedronela
139
Ofun
from
and
good
Dalia Quiros-Moran
MIERDA DE GALLINA / WOODLAND

COFFEE
(Bunchosia nitida)
MELON DE CASTILLA / HONEYDEW

MELON
(Cucumis melo)
Other names:
Cuba - Meln de Valencia, Moscatel
Kongo Machafio Suri Yanga
Lukumi Egure, Lesseitaku
Other names:
Brazil - Cereja
Cuba (La Habana) - Abran de costa.
Lukumi Adie igbemi
Description
Annual climber with wide and lobate
leaves. The fruit is large, smooth; seed
yellowish. The skin is yellowish green or
yellow with corky reticulations, thick, sweet
fleshy inner pericarp.
Description
Indigenous shrub with an unpleasant, fetid
odor. The wood is dark, hard and
compact; fine grain. The leaves are
glossy; yellow flowers.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Blood toxins.
Medicinal
Antidote
for
Guao,
inflammation,
rheumatic pains, urinary ailments.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ibeji.
Rites of Palo
For cleansings.
Used to ward off evil eye and healing

rituals.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Ojuani, Otura
Obara, and Obara Otura.
MELONCILLO / CREEPING CUCUMBER
(Melothria Guadalupensis)
MILENRAMA / YARROW
(Achillea millefolium)
Other names:
Panama - Sandillita
U.S. Guadeloupe cucumber
Other names:
Cuba - Milenrama
Haiti Millefeuille
Mexico Hierba de las Cortaduras
Puerto Rico - Perka
U.S. - Milfoil
Description
Perennial plant with thin and smooth
stems. The leaves are alternate, toothed.
The flowers are yellow. Blooms first
appear in late spring and continue into
early fall. May bloom throughout the year.
The fruit is a tiny watermelon, green to
black with white seeds.
Description
Herbaceous pungent perennial plant
reaching up to 24 inches high. Finely
feathered, bright gray-green leaves and
flat heads of small white, pink or red
flowers midsummer to autumn. Grows in
grassy places, including lawns.
USES
Medicinal
Gonorrhea, swelling.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba.
Correlating Odu: Iroso Ogunda, Iroso
Otura, Otura Obara and Obara Meji.
Medicinal
Cold, cystitis, diabetes, fever, flu, gout,
gum ailments, hypertension, indigestion,
liver ailments, menstrual bleeding, poor
wound
MENTA: Yerba Buena
140
healing, poor appetite, poor peripheral

circulation, rheumatism, toothache, urinary
incontinence, vaginal discharge.
Pregnant women should avoid this
herb
USES
Medicinal
Ague, headache, rheumatism.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oya, Yewa.
Correlating Odu: Oyekun Iwori, Otrupon
Ofun.
For purification baths to ward off evil

spirits and negativity.
Religious/Magical
For binding spells.
To ward off negativity.
In ritual baths for protection.

MIJE / RED STOPPER
(Eugenia rhombea)
MILLO
(Hulcus sorghum)
Other names:
Cuba - Mije blanco
U.S. Spiceberry Eugenia
Other names:
Lukumi Okuare
Description
Small tree or shrub is found in hillsides,
and riverbeds. The bark is gray and
smooth. The ovate leaves taper to a
narrow tip and are dark green above and
paler green below. The thin young leaves
are red. Small white flowers and round
fruits, which may be orange, red, or black
depending upon the degree of ripeness.
Description
Common plant, similar to maize, but taller
and instead of cobs, it produces a spike
full of grain.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Odua, Babalu Aye.
To ward off epidemics, place it by the

front door of the household.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun, Eshu.
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Otura.
To pack amulets.
Rites of Palo
MIRAGUANO / THATCH PALM

(Thrinax Wendlandiana)
Other names:
Cuba - Guano blanco, guano campeche,
guano de costa, miraguano de lana,
yaraguana.
Dominican Republic Guanillo
Haiti - latanier-la-mer
Lukumi - Mariwo
Mexico Chit
U.S. - Silk-top thatch, sea thatch
MIL FLORES / COLOGNE BUSH

(Clerodendron fragans)
Other names:
Cuba Avispero, Cogelotodo, Hortensia,
Yerba Hedionda
El Salvador Viuda Alegre
Guatemala Jazmn de Amelia
Mexico Bocamelia
Puerto Rico Flor de muerto, Jazmn
Cimarron, Jazmn Hediondo
U.S. - Honolulu rose, stick bush, glory
bower
Description
Palm tree with fan shaped glossy green,
fan shaped leaves, clustered at the top of
the trunk; attains a height of 10 to 12 feet.
The trunk is hard and dense and heavier
than water. The flowers are very small,
and in compound clusters. The fruit is a
white
Description
An evergreen bush three to four feet tall
that produces coarse, dark green, ovate
leaves, and fragrant, white camellia-like
flowers. The foliage, when crushed, is
quite malodorous.
141
Dalia Quiros-Moran
"stone fruit," rounded, and contains a thinshelled dark brown seed or nut. The wood
is brown in color, the outer portion hard
but the inner portion softer.
Puerto Rico - Mirto, caf de la India

Virgin Islands - St. Patrick Bush
Description
Ornamental tree or shrub up to 12 feet tall.
Leaves are obovate, oblicous at the base;
white scented flowers.
USES
Medicinal
Bronchitis, dyspepsia, impotence, tension.
USES
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Aganju.
MOCO DE PAVO: Acediana

MOLINILLO: Bastn de San Francisco
MIRRA / MYRRH
(Commiphora Myrrha)
MORA / FUSTIC TREE

(Chlorophora tinctoria)
Other names:
Arada - Aryi
Other names:
Argentina - Tata-yiv-saiy
Brazil - Tajuva, jurema de espinho,
auroreira
Colombia - Dinde
Costa Rica - Brasil
Cuba - Mora, Fustete, Mora del pais, Mora
de loma, Mora blanca, Mora de piedra.
Dominican Republic - Mora macho, palo
amarillo, fustete
Ecuador - Moral fino, moral
El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua,
Honduras - Mora
Haiti - Bois jaune, Bwa Jon
Virgin Islands - Fustic
Jamaica - Red fustic, snook
Mexico - Palo moral, Palo amarillo, Moral,
Moradila, moral amarillo, moral del clavo,
mora lisa.
Panama Moro, Mora, Amarillo
Peru - Insira, insira caspi, limulana,
amarillo
Puerto Rico - Palo de mora, mora,
escambron de Madera
U.S. Yellow wood
Venezuela - Moral, mora lisa, morita
Description
Large shrub or small tree. A pale yellow oil
drips from the cuts in its dull gray bark and
hardens to form teardrop-shaped nuggets
of myrrh, which are powdered for use as a
healing herb.
USES
Medicinal
Abrasions, acne, boils, canker sores,
catarrh, gingivitis, mouth ulcers, pyorrhea,
respiratory complaints, sinusitis, skin
conditions, skin inflammation, wounds.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Otura Ogunda.
Used as an incense to purify and

protect.
MIRTO / ORANGE JESSAMINE
(Muraya exotica)
Description
Small, deciduous tree reaching up to 45 ft
high. Found in calcareous soils. The trunk
is erect and cylindrical. The trunk and
branches usually present small spines.
The leaves are lanceolate, serrate.
Produces milky, yellowish latex.
Other names:
Antilles illes - Boxwood
Colombia - Azahar
Cuba - Mirto, Muralla, muraya, murallera,
boj de Persia, jazmn francs, jazmn de
Persia
Dominican Republic - Azahar de jardn
El Salvador - Limonaria, jazmn de Arabia
Guatemala - Limonaria, limoncillo
Haiti -Bun
Jamaica - China box, mock orange
Lukumi - Urari
142
bolts with a 3 ft stalk supporting bright

yellow flowers that develop into sickleshaped green seedpods.
USES
Medicinal
Colds, gout, rheumatism, sore throat,
venereal diseases.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshosi, Yemaya.
Medicinal
Arthritis, catarrh and related affections,
foot ache, lumbago, rheumatism, skin
eruptions and ulcers
MORURO / WILD TAMBRAN

(Pithecellobium arboreum)
MULATO: Aceitunillo
MURALLA / CHINESE BOX
(Murraya paniculata)
Other names:
Costa Rica - Loro, lorito, conchido
Cuba- Moruro, Tengue, Moruro prieto
Dominican Republic - Abey
Guatemala, Honduras - Cola de marano,
cola de mico, quebracho.
Honduras Barba de Jolote
Kongo Kasoasa kinpase
Lukumi Orudan, efunkoko
Mexico Coralillo, Caa mazo
Puerto Rico - Cojoba, Cojbana
U.S. Wild tamarind
Other names:
Cuba Murallera, Boj de Persia, Jazmn
de Persia
Puerto Rico Jazmn de la India, Mirto
U.S. Orange jessamine, Orange
blossom of India, satinwood
Description
Attractive slender, upright, shrub or tree
with a dense head type and compound
evergreen leaves that are made up of
pear-shaped leaflets, fragrant, white,
orange-like blossoms, bright, decorative,
red fruits.
Description
A large canopy leguminous tree, reaching
to 120 feet in height and 6 feet in
diameter. It has rough bark and white
dense flowers.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Aches, diarrhea, dysentery,
rheumatism, and wound.
Medicinal
Cuts, gum disease, wounds.
hysteria,
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Iwori.
Rites of Palo
Planted outside de house for

protection.

household to banish evil spirits and
negativity.
In amulets to attract good fortune
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ejionle Ofun, Ojuani
Iroso, Irete Iroso, Oshe Otura.
Rites of Palo
MOSTAZA CIMARRONA / MUSTARD
GREENS
(Brassica juncea)
Other names:
U.S. - leaf mustard, Indian mustard, brown
mustard
Description
Annual, grown for it's variable, glabrous,
thin basal leaves which are eaten raw or
cooked like spinach. Produces mustard
143
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
Medicinal
Abdominal distension, chest ailments,
constipation,
dyspepsia,
hiccups,
Nervousness, parasites, spasms, skin
ulcers, sluggish digestion, stomach
problems, uterine, rectum and stomach
ailments
NARANJA / ORANGE
(Citrus sinensis)
Other names:
Cuba - Naranja de china
Haiti - Zoran'y
Kongo Bolo mamba, Mbelia kala, Mbeio
malala
Lukumi Orolocun, Orombo, Olombo,
Osan, Esa
U.S. Sweet orange, navel orange
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun.
To make Shekete
For spells
Description
A compact evergreen tree up to 30 ft. tall
with a rounded, symmetrical crown. The
leaves are shiny and leathery, oblong to
elliptic, and have narrow wings on their
leaf stems. The blossoms are white, very
fragrant, and arranged in clusters of 1-6.
They bloom in spring and give rise to
oranges the following autumn or winter.
NELUMBIO BLANCO / DOTLEAF

WATERLILY
(Nymphaea ampla)
Other names:
Cuba - Flor de agua
Dominican Republic - Yerba de Hicotea
Description
Aquatic plant. Leaves
flowers at surface, white.
USES
Acne, bilious affections, catarrh, colds,
coughs, fever, flu, malaria, psoriasis, skin
conditions
floating;
large
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun, Ibeji
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Odi
Burned in incense to banish negativity
Medicinal
Intestinal infections.
NITRO
(Boldoa purpurascens)
Description
Common weed with erect stem and thin
branches. The leaves are alternate, pale
green; flowers greenish, small.
NARANJA AGRIA / BITTER ORANGE

(Citrus aurantium)
Other names:
Cuba - Naranja agria
Haiti - Zorany s, Zoranj anm, Orange
Gosco (Gwo Po)
Lukumi - Korosan
U.S. - Sour Orange, Seville Orange
USES
Medicinal
Urinary track ailments, impotence.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Iroso Ojuani and Ojuani
Oshe.
Description
An evergreen tree growing to 20 ft. It is in
leaf all year, in flower from April to June.
Scented flowers. The wood is hard, white.
144
NO ME OLVIDES / GOLDEN DEW DROP

(Duranta repens)
AME / WHITE YAM

(Dioscorea alata)
Other names:
Brazil - Grao de gallo
Colombia - Espino negro, adonis morado
Cuba - No me olvides, violetina, fruta de
iguana, celosa
El Salvador - Heliotropo, chulada
Haiti - Bois jambette
Jamaica - Angels-whisper, poison macca
Mexico - Espina blanca, capocoche
Nicaragua
Heliotropo
morado,
pensamiento
Panama - Varita de San Jose, lora
Puerto Rico - Cuenta de oro, azota
caballo, lila, lluvia
U.S. - Sky flower, Pigeon-berry
Venezuela - Fruta de paloma, melero
Other names:
Cuba - ame
Haiti - Yanm, Zyanm
Kongo Imbiku Loato
Lukumi - Ewe Isu
Description
Evergreen shrub, up to 15 feet tall and 10
feet wide. The leaves are 1" to 4" long with
a whorled appearance. The flowers are a
pale purple with a yellow eye, scented;
orange berries.
USES
Description
Herbaceous vine with heart-shaped ovate
leaves 3-6 inches long; wing-like on
opposite sides of a square stem that has 4
flat sides and twines to the right. The
leaves have veins that begin at the leaf
base. The flowers are small, with a yellow
or yellow-green calyx and no petals. The
edible fruit, tuber, of the yam grows on an
underground stem and is thick.
Medicinal
Coughs, constipation, dysentery, vomiting
blood.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba all the Orishas
Correlating Odu: Odi Ojuani, Ojuani Iroso,
Ojuani Ofun, Otura Osa, Otura Oshe, and
Obara Ogunda, Oshe Meji, Okana Obara.
Food offerings for the Orishas.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ika Ogbe.
For love spells.
AME VOLADOR / AIR POTATO

(Dioscorea pilosiuscula)
NOGAL / WEST INDIAN WALNUT

(Juglans insularis)
Other names:
Cuba - Nogal del pas, Palo de Nuez
Dominican Republic Nogal
Puerto Rico - Palo de nuez, nuez
Other names:
Cuba - Alambrillo, papas al aire.
Kongo Imbikua salalala
Lukumi - Ishu
Description
Indigenous tree that grows in elevated
areas. The leaves are large, serrated;
small flowers, greenish.
Description
Herbaceous, perennial vine; stems
annual, twining counterclockwise Leaves
simple, alternate, blades broadly ovate,
cordate, -nerved, glabrous, entire; aerial
tubers usually in axils, generally sub
spherical,
smooth-surfaced.
Flowers
small, fragrant. Fruit a capsule, edible,
bland/ bitter tasting.
USES
Medicinal
Buccal inflammations, eczema, intestinal
parasites, skin diseases, skin ulcers,
throat irritation, whites.
145
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango.
To expel evil spirits
To expel unwanted company.
146
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
OCUJE / BEAUTY LEAF

(Colophyllum antilanum)
Other names:
Cuba - Oc.
Kongo - Simano
Lukumi Yenye
U.S. Santa Maria
OJO DE BUEY / SEA BEANS

(Mucuna urens)
Other names:
Cuba - Cayajabo, jairey, ojo de caballo,
ojo de borrico.
Lukumi Jumiyi, Irubaniye
Mexico Ojo de Borrico
Panama - Ojo de venado
Puerto Rico - Matos del monte, matos, ojo
de buey
Description
Erect tree growing up to 40 ft. tall. Young
stems green, minutely hair, becoming gray
with age. Leaves opposite, simple,
petioled, elliptic, long; blades very shiny,
tips rounded to minutely notched. Flowers
small, in few flowered racemes, white,
fragrant, with many yellow stamens. Fruit
a 1 seeded, hard shelled drupe, brown,
globose. Found in mangrove forests and
other coastal areas.
Description
A large woody vine, glabrous. Reaches up
to 10 ft. long. Leaflets mostly elliptic,
blackening when dried, lustrous, purplish
below, green above. Legume sessile,
oblong; seeds 1-4, compressed or
subglobose, orbicular, almost surrounded
by the linear hilum, brownish fuscous.
USES
Medicinal
Hernia, rheumatism.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Ofun
Rites of Palo
Medicinal
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango
The seeds are used for amulets.
OFON / BLACK PLUM

(Vitex Doniana)
OJO DE PROFETA
Other names:
Cuba - Ofn
Other names:
Kongo Mikambo
Lukumi - Recheyee
Description
A deciduous tree, up to 20 ft high, with a
dense rounded crown. Its bark is light grey
with numerous vertical fissures. Leaves
are long stalked with 5-7 leaflets. Flowers
are numerous, white, tinged purple,
usually borne in short, stout axillary cymes
on a long stalk. The fruits are ellipsoid to
oblong, green turning black on ripening.
USES
Medicinal
Head colds, headaches.
USES
Medicinal
Anemia, dysentery, gonorrhea, jaundice,
and leprosy.
147
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Orunmila
OREJA DE PALO / TIMWORT

(Phoradendron quadrangulare)
Other names:
Cuba - Guindavela, palo caballero
OJO DE RATON / ROUGE PLANT

(Rivina humilis)
Description
Parasitary sub shrub. Foliage khaki to
yellow-green, the leaves are fleshy and
brittle. Flowers pale yellow. Immature fruit
yellow green, mature fruit orange, round,
with green seed.
Other names:
Argentina, Urugay - Sangre de toro.
Colombia -Pinpin, pinta pinta
Cuba - Coralitos.
Dominican Republic Caimancillo
Kongo - Modobo
Mexico - Coral, coralito, coralillo
Nicaragua -Hierba mora, saca-tinta,
coralillo, coralillo carmin.
USES
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
Description
A bushy perennial standing one to five
feet tall. The leaves have wavy margins.
The pink to white flowers grow on a spike.
The top of the spike has reddish-pink buds
and the base has bright red to orange
fruit.
OROZUS DE LA TIERRA / AZTEC

SWEET HERB
(Lippia dulcis)
Other names:
Cuba - Orozus de la tierra, Oro Azul.
El Salvador Salvia Santa, Corronchocho
Kongo - Inmeyemo
Lukumi Orosun kikio simawa
Mexico Hierba buena, Hierba dulce
Nicaragua Orosul
Panama Salvia Santa
Peru Menta Dulce
U.S. - Sweet leaf
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Ofun
Rites of Palo
Description
Low creeping herb about 18 inches high;
the branches and leaves in pairs, the
flower stalks in the axils of the leaves,
white. The leaves are ovate, narrowed into
the petiole, acute, finely toothed above,
veiny and glandular-hairy. They have a
peculiar, sweet and very delightful,
aromatic odor and taste.
OREGANO/ WILD MAJORAN

(Origanum vulgare)
Description
A hardy perennial herb growing up to 2 ft.
in height. It bears attractive white to
purplish flowers and showy bracts in
summer. Leaves are green to gray-green
and may be hairy or smooth.
USES
Medicinal
Arthritis, asthma, chest ailments, coughs,
infections, inflammation, liver ailments,
stomach upset
USES
Medicinal
Bronchitis, cough, hemorrhages, intestinal
parasites.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
Correlating Odu: Odi Ogunda, Irete Iwori,
Ika Odi, and Ofun Iroso.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
To condiment food offerings for the
Orishas
148
ORTIGA: Candelilla
ORTIGUILLA/COWITCH
(Fleurya cuneata)
Other names:
Kongo Iyen
Lukumi Ewe Ne, Ina
Description
Indigenous climber, with serrated leaves,
axillary flowers.
USES
Medicinal
Blood toxins, impotence, rheumatism, skin
ulcers, wounds.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Babalu aye
149
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Description
A palm from 50 feet to 80 feet in height;
straight clear trunk up to two feet in
diameter, covered with shallow ridges and
fissures. It grows in sandy soil or
hammocks. The fronds are from five to
eight feet long, dark green, shiny, deeply
divided into narrow portions, and borne on
unarmed petioles. The trunk is covered
with a thick rind and marked in rings
where the old sets of fronds have fallen
off. The fruit consists of many rounded
berries, about one-third inch in diameter,
each containing a brownish colored seed.
The wood is light, soft, pale brown,
containing numerous hard fibers or
threads.
PACHULI / PATCHOULI
(Pogostemon patchouli)
Description
A fragrant herb, with soft, opposite, eggshaped leaves and square stems; grows
from 2 to 3 feet in height, giving out the
peculiar, characteristic odor of patchouli
when rubbed. Its whitish flowers, tinged
with purple, grow in both axillary and
terminal spikes.
USES
Medicinal
Loss of appetite and sleep, nervous
attacks.
USES
Religious/Magical
Burned to attract good fortune.
It has aphrodisiac properties.
Medicinal
Hysteria.
PADERO: Arriero
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Egun rituals and ceremonies.
PALMA REAL / ROYAL PALM

(Roystonea Regia)
PALO AMARILLO / PLUME POPPY

(Bocconia frutescens)
Other names:
Puerto Rico - Palma de yagua cubana
Other names:
Argentina, Urugay - Sancho amargo
Colombia - Curarador, trompeto, sanor,
mata-chande, sarcillejo
Costa Rica -Guacamayo, tabaquillo
Dominican Republic -Yagrumo macho.
Guatemala - Sangre de toro
Mexico- Gordolobo, cuatlataya, caldern
Puerto Rico - Palo de pan cimarrn, pan
cimarrn
Description
Palm tree reaching up to 50 ft. high with a
very solid trunk, grass green crown shaft,
and a handsome crown of large feathery
leaves.
USES
Medicinal
Eye ailments, gonorrhea, kidney ailments,
and leprosy.
Description
Evergreen shrub to small tree that forms
dense stands in dry habitats. It has very
large, sinuate, dentate leaves, and small,
panicled, apetalous flowers. The seeds
are wind-dispersed.
Religious/Magical:
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Orunla
Correlating Odu: Ejionle Meji, Iwori Iroso,
Odi Meji, Otura Iroso, Otura Osa, Irete
Otura.
PALMA CANA / SABAL PALM
(Sabal florida)
Other names:
Cuba - Guano cana.
150
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Osanyin
Rites of Palo
To banish negativity and protection.
Medicinal
Dropsy, jaundice, intestinal worms and
parasites, psoriasis.
PALO AMARGO
(Picramnia reticulata)
PALO BOBO
(Annona glabra)
Other names:
Cuba - Palo amargo, marigoncillo, palo
amarillo, quina de la tierra.
Kongo - Momboco
Lukumi Igi Kikan
Other names:
Brazil - Araticum do brejo.
Colombia - Mayos
Costa Rica - Guanbana silvestre
Cuba - Baga, Palo bobo, guanbana
cimarrona, cimarrona.
Dominican Republic Guanbano de
corcho, mammon de perro, anon de ro,
baga, guanbana
cimarrona
Ecuador - Anona del campo
Guatemala, Honduras - Anoncillo
Haiti - Carossol marrn, mammier
Kongo Chona
Lukumi Inabiri, Iyumo
Mexico -Corcho, arbol de corcho, palo de
corcho.
Panama - Ann de puerco
Puerto Rico - Cayur, corazn cimarrn,
guanbano cimarrn, ann.
U.S.- Alligator apple, custard apple
Venezuela - Ann liso, chirimoya
cimarrona,
guanbano
cimarrn,
guanbano bobo.
Description
Indigenous tree reaching up to 30 ft. high.
The leaves are lanceolate, bright green.
Found in semi-calcareous forests.
USES
Medicinal
Alcoholism,
ailments.
arthritis,
gout,
stomach
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
To expel ingested witchcraft
For spells to cause despair.

PALO BLANCO / PARADISE TREE
(Simarouba glauca)
Description
Indigenous tree reaching heights up to 35
ft. Grows near fresh water ponds and
streams and in swampy hammocks; with a
much swelled, or buttressed, base and
short, clear trunk. The branches are stout
and irregular-shaped. The leaves are
leathery, bright green above, elliptical or
oval. The flowers open from a threeangled bud on a stout flower stem, with six
petals in two series of three each, of a
pale or yellowish white, the three outer
ones marked with a bright red spot near
the base.
Other names:
Costa Rica - Simaruba
Cuba - Gaviln, roblecillo
El Salvador - Jucumico, aceituno
Haiti - Fren'n
Kongo Musi mindola
Lukumi Iggi Fun
Mexico So. - Xpaxakil
Nicaragua - Aceituno, aceituno negrito
Panama - Aceituno
Description
A medium sized to large tree that grows
up to 25 feet in height. Bright green
leaves and a small red fruits. The wood is
soft with a bitter taste and a peculiar
scent.
USES
Medicinal
Diabetes, dysentery, stomach upset.
151
Dalia Quiros-Moran
spines that cause a burning sensation and

itch when touched.
USES
Medicinal
Neutralizes medicinal decoctions when
they are made too strong.
Abdominal complaints, burns, coughing
associated with TB, infantile diarrhea,
jaundice,
pulmonary
ailments,
rheumatism, intestinal parasites and
worms.
USES
Medicinal
Hair loss, menstrual irregularity.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Osanyin and Obatala
Used for protection against evil and

negativity.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ika Ojuani
Rites of Palo
Palo Mayombe.
Weakens; causes lapses.
PALO CABALLERO / MAHOGANY

MISTLETOE
(Phoradendron rubrum)
Other names:
Cuba - Cepa de caballero, guinda vela
Kongo Butekie
Puerto Rico - Caballera
PALO BOMBA
(Xilopia glabra)
Other names:
Cuba - Guabico, palo crio.
Kongo - Mubon
Lukumi Olunipa
Description
Tropical rock land hammock. Parasitic on
mahogany.
USES
Description
Tree with twisted branches, smooth gray
bark; leaves glossy, ovate, alternate, pale
green on top, lighter green at the bottom;
single flowers, six petals, the longer ones
are brown, and the rest triangular in
shape.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango
Rites of Palo
Used for protection against evil and
negativity.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Negative properties. It has fatal effects if
ingested, causing internal hemorrhage.
PALO CACHIMBA
(Aralia capitata)
Other names:
Cuba Aralia
Lukumi Asho ikoko
PALO BONITO: Arbol bonito

Description
Tree up to 60 ft. high. Trunk produces a
milky sap; the bark is light brown with
shallow, round depressions; leaves
glabrous,
green,
scented
flowers;
cream/white, terminal; berries are green,
purple when mature.
PALO BRONCO / MALPIGHIA

(Malpighia biflora)
Other names:
Cuba - Palo bronco de monte
Kongo - Moruambo
Puerto Rico - Olaga
Description
Coastal shrub found in arid, rocky soils.
The trunk and leaves are covered by
152
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango
Rites of Palo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango
Rites of Palo
For protection against negativity and evil
spirits.
PALO CALIENTE: Copaiba

PALO CAMBIA VOZ / WEST INDIAN
SANDALWOOD
(amyris balsamifera)
PALO CAFE
(Amaioua corymbosa)
Other names:
Cuba Cambia Voz, palo cambia camino,
cuaba, palo cuaba
Kongo - Kisiambolo
U.S. - Balsam Torchwood, West Indian
Rosewood
Other names:
Cuba - Palo caf, pitajon cimarrn,
cafetillo, cafetillo cimarrn
Kongo - Irinkao
Lukumi - Iggi Fere, Apo
Description
Scrub common in sandy soils; cylindrical
branches;
leaves
elliptical,
silky
underneath; scented flowers, white.
Description
A small tree growing to a height of 20 or
30 feet, Found in coastal areas and sandy
soils. The leaves are opposite, smooth,
glaucous on under surface, oval or
lanceolate in shape. Its numerous small
flowers are without odor and of varying
hues. The tree is parasitic, and will attach
itself to other plants by tuberous
processes on its roots.
USES
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
Burned to banish illness and negativity in
the household.
USES
PALO CAJA
(Allophyllus cominia)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Rites of Palo
To cause change of mind.
Other names:
Costa Rica - Esuquitillo
Cuba - Palo caja, palo de caja
Dominican Republic - Tres palabras, palo
de caja
Haiti - Cafe jaune, petit cafe, trois paroles
Kongo Nguengue
Lukumi Iggi Bire, Oin, Merembe
Puerto Rico - Quiebrahacha, palo blanco
Venezuela - Fruta paloma, marfil
PALO CENIZO
(Pithecollobium obovale)
Other names:
Cuba - Humo de sabana, Abey blanco,
encinillo.
Kongo Nchungo, chungora mifototo
Lukumi - Igbelefin
Description
Dense foliage tree found in mountain
sides, reaching up to 30 ft. high. The
leaves are elliptical, fuzzy underneath.
The flowers are white, aromatic. The fruit
is red or orange, sometimes hairy.
USES
Medicinal
Debility, dropsy, high blood pressure,
intestinal
ailments,
toothaches,
tuberculosis.
153
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Description
Tree reaching up to 30 ft. found near
riverbanks and streams. The flowers in
racemes. Seeds are elliptical, bluish color.
USES
Medicinal
Colic, dyspepsia,
spasm.
fever,
rheumatism,
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Yemaya, Ogun
Rites of Palo
For ritual cleansings of persons and

the household.
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
Used for balance and stability in amulets
and rituals.
PALO CLAVO / CLOVE
(Eugenia caryophyllata)
PALO COCUYO
(Paralabatia dictyneura)
Other names:
Cuba - Arbol del clavo
Other names:
Cuba - Vigueta peluda, rbol de las
sierras, San Juan.
Dominican Republic - Cuero de puerco,
tomasina, caracol.
Kongo Nkunia Ntoka.
Lukumi Ofuntana.
Description
An evergreen tree, 15 to 30 feet tall.
Scented leaves, opposite, ovate; flowers
are red and white, bell-shaped, in terminal
clusters. The dried flower makes the
"cloves". The fruit is a one- or two-seeded
berry.
Description
Mountain tree, reddish hard wood, Grows
up to 24 Ft. high. The leaves are rigid,
lanceolate, fuzzy underneath; axillary
flowers; fruit elliptical, hairy.
USES
Medicinal
Diabetes, indigestion, infection, intestinal
parasites, pain, sore throat, toothache.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun
Rites of Palo
To expel ingested witchcraft
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Osayin
Correlating Odu: Iwori Odi
Rites of Palo
PALO COCHINO / OKEN

(Tetragastris balsamifera)
Other names:
Cuba - Palo cochino, palo de cochino,
azucarero, incienso.
Dominican Republic - Amacey
Haiti - Bwa-Koshon
Kongo - Fumasi
Lukumi Epoto, ewinmamaro
U.S. Masa
PALO DE CAMPECHE / LOGWOOD

(Haematoxylum campechianum)
Other names:
Cuba Palo Negro
Description
A tree that grows up to 50 feet high and
has a short, crooked trunk; leaves featherformed, oval leaflets. The small yellow
flowers grow in a cluster from the leaf axil.
The wood is heavy and extremely hard.
Description
Common tree growing up to 30 ft.; the
trunk is erect, long that release a white
aromatic sap; the wood is pink or grayish
pink, the core is pink with white strikes.
154
USES
Description
A shrub or small tree reaching 15' to 30'
feet with a 4" to 8" diameter trunk that
often leans. Most of the trunk is covered
by the narrow, irregular crown. The
reddish-brown to light brown bark is scaly
and very thin. The evergreen leaves are
simple, opposite, and oblong or oval in
shape. The reddish-brown to purplishblack fruit is a small drupe with four seeds.
Found in pinelands and hammocks of
coastal areas.
Medicinal
Abortive, anemia, antiseptic, diarrhea,
dysentery, gangrene, leucorrhea, sore,
sprains, trauma, toothache, tuberculosis.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Oyekun Ika
PALO DEL BRASIL: Campeche
USES
PALO DIABLO / JAMAICA CAPER

TREE
(Capparis cynophallophora)
Medicinal
Ear ailments.
Other names:
Cuba - Palo diablo, mostacilla.
Kongo - Mecuembri, wabi
Lukumi Bieshu, burubu
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala, Shango, Ogun
PALO HACHA
Description
Evergreen shrub. This flowering plant
reaches up to 10 feet. It is in flower during
the spring. The leaves are green and the
underside rust colored; simple, medium
texture; showy flowers, pink- white.
Other names:
Kongo Musi Bele loasia
Lukumi Igi Nika
USES
USES
Religious/Magical:
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oya.
Rites of Palo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Eshu.
Not used for rituals or ceremonies.
Rites of Palo
To overcome the enemy. Not favorable for
all Nkisis.
This plant should be planted away from
the household for it attracts negative/evil
spirits.
PALO HEDIONDO / SENNA TREE

(Cassia emarginata)
Other names:
Cuba - Palo hediondo, frijolillo
Haiti - Bwa-Kabrit', Casse Marron, Casse-batons, Casse Savane, Casse-Hallier,
Sou Mak
Kongo Sekense, baye, bitondo
Lukumi Igi jara-jara
U.S. - Yellow Candle wood
PALO GUAMO: Guam de Costa

PALO GUARA: Guara
PALO GUITARRA / FIDDLEWOOD
(Citharexylum caudatum)
Other names:
Cuba - Cateicillo, collarete, guairo santo,
guayo blanco, penda y roble amarillo.
Kongo Osonko
Lukumi - Alare
U.S. Juniper berry
Description
Indigenous shrub;
unpleasant odor.
155
has
peculiar,
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Description
Indigenous large tree found in riverbanks.
The leaves are green, ovate, somewhat
glossy on above, and yellowish below; the
flowers have four petals. The seeds in a
capsule, yellowish/ green; the trunk is dark
brown, smooth, light brown inside.
USES
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
To assist the earth bound moribund to
pass peacefully
USES
PALO JERINGA / HORSERADISH TREE

(Moringa oleifera)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Osanyin y Shango
Correlating Odu: Ika Okana.
To pack amulets
Rites of Palo
Other names:
Cuba - Paraso francs
El Salvador - Marango, Marenque,
Paraso extranjero, teberino.
Mexico - Paraso de Espaa, Perlas de
Oriente
Nicaragua, Costa Rica - Marango
Puerto Rico - Angela
U.S. Drumstick tree
PALO MALAMBO / WILD CINNAMON

(Canella alba)
Other names:
Cuba - Crbana, canela del pas.
Haiti - Canelle
Kongo Nkumia Mpeka
U.S. Wild cinnamon
Description
Small tree, tortuous, used as ornamental.
It has a single stem, light bark; wide-open,
umbrella shaped crown; wood soft.
USES
Description
A straight tree, from 20 to 50 feet high,
with erect branches at the summit only.
The bark is yellowish-white; the inner bark
thick, smooth, and pale, with a biting,
aromatic taste. The leaves are scattered,
shining, and yellowish-green. The flowers
are small, and borne in clusters, and of a
purple color. Berry the size of a pea,
fleshy, smooth, blue, or black, hot and
biting while green. The bark is of a pale
yellowish-white color, occurring in hard,
twisted pieces, with an acrid, peppery
taste, an aromatic, clove-like, or
cinnamon-like odor.
Medicinal:
Asthma, catarrh, cold, dropsy, dysentery,
erysipelas, fever, hair loss, hysteria,
neuralgia, spasm, toothache, ulcer, yellow
fever, tumor, vertigo.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya
Correlating Odu: Otura Ika, Otura
Otrupon.
Rites of Palo
It has aphrodisiac properties. Restores the
passion in loving partners.
USES
Medicinal
Cold, diarrhea, difficult menstruation,
fever, sluggish digestion, tetanus, wound
pain.
PALO JICOTEA
Other names:
Cuba - Jicotea, chicharrn, berija, juba
blanca.
Dominican Republic - Chicharrn
Lukumi Igi Aya Ura
Puerto Rico - Chicharrn
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Iwori Odi, Iroso Ika,
Otrupon Iroso.
To pack amulets
Rites of Palo
156
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
Rites of Palo
Burned in incense to banish

negativity and attract good vibrations
PALO MANGA SAYAS

USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya
Rites of Palo
Palo mayombe.
For love amulets and spells
PALO NEGRO: Palo de campeche

PALO PAPO
(Fagelia bitaminosa)
PALO MANAJU: Cabima
Other names:
Cuba - Papito de la reina.
PALO MORO
(Psychotria brownei)
Description
Cultivated plant.
Other names:
Haiti - Caf-Marron Grand-Bois, Petit-Caf
Marron
USES
Description
Indigenous shrubs found in mountainous
areas.
Medicinal
Debility.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
For purification
negativity.
For amulets
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba.
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Iroso
Rites of Palo
For binding spells. To attract love
baths
to
banish
PALO RAMON / RAMOON

(Trophis racemosa)
Other names:
Cuba - Ramon de bestia y Ramn de
caballos, balsamo.
Dominican Republic - Ramn, Ramon de
vaca, Ramon de bestia.
El Salvador -Ojushte, chulujuste, pilijuste
Guatemala -Ramon colorado
Haiti -Ramon, bois neuf rameau
Jamaica - Ramoon
Kongo Cuaribao, nkento, nkitan kitan
Mexico - Ramon, ramoncillo, ushi
Panama - Ojoche macho, breadnut
Puerto Rico -Ramoncillo, Ramon.
Venezuela - Marfil.
PALO MORURO: Moruro

PALO MULATO / INKWOOD
(Exothea paniculata)
Other names:
Cuba - Palo mulato, mulato, yaicuaje.
Kongo - Potunkoro
Lukumi - Kukunduku
U.S. Butterbough
Description
Shrub common in hammocks; the leaves
are dark green, long and come in sets of
four leaflets. Wood is hard, compact,
reddish color.
USES
Medicinal
Debility.
157
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Description
Native tree found in wet forests. The
leaves are elliptical, slightly serrate, round
at the base. Produces small edible orange
fruits, with a large seed inside.
Description
Common shrub of calcareous soils. The
leaves a elliptical. Ripe fruits, deep
burgundy, the seeds covered by a yelloworange aril. Wood light yellow.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Slow milk flow in nursing women.
Medicinal
Burns, flu, leprosy, skin lesions, wound.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Obara Okana
For amulets and relics,
Rites of Palo
Essential to the Nkisi.
To dominate spirits.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Oya and Ogun.
Rites of Palo
To overcome obstacles
PALO SANTO/ BLACK SWEETWOOD
(Ocotea foeniculacea)
PALO RAYO / JERUSALEM THORN

Other names:
Cuba - Palo Santo
Puerto Rico - Palo Santo, laurel
Dominican Republic - Canelilla
Other names:
Cuba - Junco marino, palo de rayo.
Description
Tree noted for its striking yellow flowers
and unusual foliage. The green bark and
branches are armed with thorns, up to an
inch in length. The leaves are compound,
small and strap-like, resembling floppy,
narrow feathers. The flowers are
clustered, yellow, and pea-like, appearing
in spring and summer. The fruit is hard,
brown pods 3-4 inches in length.
Description
Evergreen tree reaching up to 30 ft. high.
Aromatic bark, smooth, gray with dark
green spots; flexible, slender branches;
leaves ovate, alternate; flowers in
racemes, blue.
USES
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
USES
Medicinal
Epilepsy, fever, stomachache.
PALO TENGUE
(Poeppigia procera)
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
Other names:
Brazil - Lava-cabelo
Cuba - Palo tengue, quebracho blanco,
abey hembra.
Kongo Nkita, Nkuni Cheche Cabinda
Lukumi - Adebesu
Mexico Corazon Bonito
Panama - Harino
PALO ROMPEHUESO
(Casearia sylvestris)
Other names:
Cuba - Sarna de perro, aguedita blanca,
aguedita macho, tasajo.
Kongo Beberico, kulombe
Lukumi Ishiegu, borocoma
Mexico - Guayabillo
Nicaragua - Comida de culebra
Puerto Rico - Cafeillo cimarron, laurel
espada, sarna de perro
158
Description
Tree common in calcareous and
mountainous areas. Reaches up to 30 ft.
high. The foliage is fine; yellow flowers.
The wood is good, hard, reddish core.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Iwori Ofun.
Belongs to Eshu
To twist someone's luck.
USES
Medicinal
Ulcers and wounds.
PALO VERRACO
(Hypericum stypheliodes)
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
For amulets
To attract stability and protection
Other names:
Kongo Fumasi, Dokirongo
Lukumi Teni teni, Lede
Description
Shrub growing along streams in sandy
savannas. The trunk is woody, erect,
cylindrical, gray. Rigid leaves; large yellow
flowers.
PALO TOCINO
(Acacia paniculata)
Other names:
Brazil - Aspera-a
Cuba - Palo tocino, rabo de iguana.
Kongo Yiguayeo
Lukumi - Ore
USES
Medicinal
Syphilis, venereal diseases.
Description
Cuban indigenous tree with emerald
green, feathery, spiny, arched branches.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya
USES
PANETELA / SWORDBUSH
(Xylophylla angustifolia)
Medicinal
Gonorrhea, menstrual problems.
Other names:
U.S. Foliage flower
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
Description
Common tree with hard, compact wood,
fine grain, brownish color with streaks. At
nighttime, the flowers expel a soft,
pleasant odor.
PALO TORCIDO
(Mouriri valenzuelana)
USES
Other names:
Cuba - Lebrero, mano de piln, torcido,
yaya macho.
Kongo Alubende dianfinda, Otutua
Lukumi - Otite, Mitonlo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Iroso, Ika Odi.
Description
Indigenous tree found near riverbanks and
streams. The wood is hard, compact,
heavy and fibrous; fine grain, yellowish
brown with darker streaks.
PAPAYON: Arriero
PAPITO DE LA REINA: Bejuco de
Conchita
159
Dalia Quiros-Moran
PARA MI / FIRE BUSH

(Hamelia patens)
Description
Tree originally from India. It flowers and
bears fruit and has toothed leaflets. The
tree produces purplish fragrant flowers,
after wards followed by yellow fruits
(berries) that are very poisonous.
Other names:
Brazil Valmoura
Cuba - Para mi, ponas, raz de indio
Haiti Koray
Kongo - Kaguangaco
U.S. - Scarlet bush, hummingbird bush
USES
Medicinal
Diphnea, hysteria,
roundworms.
Description
Semi-woody evergreen shrub that can get
up to 15 ft. tall. The leaves are elliptic to
oval, gray-pubescent underneath with
reddish veins and petioles. Showy
terminal clusters of bright reddish-orange
or scarlet tubular flowers, the clusters of
fruit also are showy. Each fruit is a juicy
berry with many small seeds, ripening
from green to yellow to red and finally to
black.
leprosy,
parasitic
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Obatala, Oshun,
Elegba
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Okana, Iwori Ika,
Odi Ika, Odi Ogunda, Ogunda Oshe,
Otura Okana.
Rites of Palo
Planted outside the house for luck

and protection.

For cleansings of the household, to

banish negativity and attract good
fortune.
USES
Medicinal
Fungal infections, pain, skin problems of
many kinds, insect bites, menstrual
disorders,
dysentery,
rheumatism,
headache, uterine and ovarian afflictions.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Inle
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Oshe
Rites of Palo
To influence, dominate, possess.
For love spells.
PARAISO FRANCES: Palo Jeringa

PARANA / PARA GRASS
(Panicum purpurancens)
Other names:
Cuba Hierba del Paral
Description
Coarse perennial grass, with well
developed root; branches robust, slender;
nodes covered with long white hairs,
spreading; inflorescence a panicle made
up of 820 false spikes or racemes,
simple or compound at base, erect or
somewhat spreading, alternate, distant,
robust.
PARAISO/ CHINABERRY TREE

(Melia azederach)
Other names:
Arada - Zizifu
Dominican Republic Lila
Haiti - Lilas-Pays
Lukumi - Ibayo
Panama - Jacinto
Puerto Rico - Margosa, lilaila, pasilla
U.S. - Persian lilac, pride of India, bead
tree, lilac tree
Venezuela - Aleli
Virgin Islands - Neem
USES
Medicinal
160
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshosi
USES
Medicinal
Liver complaints.
PAREIRA BRAVA / VELVET LEAF

(Cissampelos pareira)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba.
Correlating Odu: Oshe Ika, Ika Oshe, Irete
Untelu, Oshe Ika, Ojuani Iwori, Ofun Yeku.
Rites of Palo
Other names:
Cuba - Bejuco de terciopelo, bejuco de
sabana, bejuco de pitilla, tomatillo de
sabana.
U.S. Ice Vine
Description
A shrub with a round, ligneous root, stems
either smooth, or with close-pressed
down, and climbing over trees. Leaves
large, nearly orbicular, peltate, aristate at
the point, when full grown smooth above,
underneath
covered
with
silky
pubescence, but not truly downy. Flowers
dioecious, hispid, in racemes. Berries
scarlet, round, compressed, shriveled,
thinned to the edge, all over hispid with
long hairs.
PATABAN / WHITE MANGROVE

(Laguncularia racemosa)
Other names:
Cuba Mangle Bobo
Haiti Manglier Blanc
Description
A tree found in the muddy tidal shores of
bays and lagoons. It reaches heights up to
60 feet and diameters up to 20 inches.
The top is usually narrow and rounded;
leaves opposite, smooth, thick and
leathery, oblong and rounded at the ends,
dark green on their upper surfaces;
flowers fragrant and occur in an opposite
arrangement along a central stem, or five
nearly round greenish-white petals; fruit a
10-ribbed hard pod, flattened with two thin
ridges; single dark red, thin-walled seed.
The wood is dark yellow-brown, heavy,
hard and strong.
USES
Medicinal
Dropsy,
jaundice,
leucorrhoea,
rheumatism, and urinary track ailments.
PARRA DE AGUA: Bejuco Jimagua

PARRITA CIMARRONA: Bejuco Ubi
Macho
USES
PATA DE GALLINA / YARD GRASS

(Eleusine indica)
Medicinal
Dysentery.
Other names:
Cuba - Grama de caballo
Kongo Kimbansa, bebeke
Lukumi Ewe Eran, Dede, Araogu
U.S. Indian Goose grass, Goose grass
PEGA PEGA/STRONG BACK

(Desmodium obtusum)
Other names:
Cuba - Amor seco.
Kongo Inin inago
Lukumi - Kirimeko
Description
Annual growing to 6 inches tall as a
compressed plant in turf. It appears as a
silvery mat forming a pale green clump
with a low rosette and flattened stems.
Flower stalks are short, stout, and
compressed. It is in flower from July to
August, and the seeds ripen from August
to October. Grows in roadsides and waste
places.
Description
Indigenous
multi
branched
weedy
perennial herb 1.5 ft tall. Produces
numerous light purple flowers and small
green fruits/bean in 2" long pods. Found in
open forests, pastures, yards and
roadsides.
161
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshosi
Rites of Palo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ibeji.
For binding spells. To reunite broken

marriages and friendships.
PENDEJERA / TURKEY BERRY

(Solanum Torvum)
PECHUGA DE PALOMA / JOHN

CHARLES
(Hyptis verticillata)
Other names:
Colombia - Friega platos
Costa Rica - Berenjena, berenjena
cimarrona.
Cuba - Prendedera.
Dominican
Republic
Berenjena
cimarrona, berenjena de gallina, tabacn.
Guatemala - Tomatillo.
Haiti - Zamorette, Rapon
Kongo Milisia
Lukumi Isiami, ewe oduyafun, inyelo
Mexico - Espina.
Puerto Rico - Berenjena cimarrona.
U.S. Gully bean, devil's fig.
Other names:
Cuba - Coge mundo
Honduras Quita dolor
Mexico Hierba Martina
U.S. Wild mint
Description
Shrub that grows to a height of
approximately 6 feet. The leaves are oval
and the flowers are white.
USES
Description
Evergreen, widely branched prickly shrub
or small tree to 16 ft. tall. The stems have
stout, flattened prickles. Leaves alternate,
simple, petioled; blades oval to elliptic, tips
pointed. Flowers many, in large branched
clusters with glandular hairs on axes. Fruit
an erect subglobose berry, yellow when
ripe.
Medicinal
Aches (head, back, stomach, chest
ailments,
colds,
dyspepsia,
itch,
rheumatism, skin infections, spasm,
stings, tension, toothache.
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo
USES
PEGOJO / MILKWOOD
(Tabernaemontana citriflora)
Medicinal
Impotence, kidney ailments, urinary track
ailments, toxins in the blood.
Other names:
Cuba - Pegojo, pitimini, huevo de gallo,
lechoso.
Dominican Republic - Palo de leche
Haiti - Bois lait
Mexico - Lecherillo
Nicaragua - Cachito
Puerto Rico - Palo lechoso
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Eshu, Elegba.
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Meji, Irete Obara,
Irete Ika.
Used to make omiero for Babalu Aye
rituals
Rites of Palo
Description
Very frail shrub; leaves long, wavy at the
edges, pointed, glossy bluish green, pale
underneath. The fruit has multiple seeds.
Found in arid and rocky areas.
USES
Medicinal
Fever, warts.
162
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Odudua, Ogun
Correlating Odu: Obara Ogunda, Odi
Obara, Okana Ogunda, and Okana Ofun,
Irete Iroso.
Essential plant for initiation rituals
Can be used as a substitute for any of
the five essential plants to make ritual
omiero.
For protection.
The root to expel ingested witchcraft.
PENSAMIENTO/WILD PANSY
(Viola Tricolor)
Other names:
Argentina Hierba de la Santisima
Trinidad
Brazil Viola del Pensiero
Haiti Pensee Sauvage
U.S. Heart's ease, Johnny-jump-up
Description
Showy annual with small pansy-like
flowers, each of them showing three
colors: deep purple, yellow,
and white. The plant grows to ten inches
high, mainly in sand dunes. The Stem is
upright, ramified, and glabrous. The
leaves are undivided, oblong-ovate,
notched,
glabrous,
short
petiolate,
alternate, at the base. The seed is
obovate, yellowish-brown.
PEPINO / CUCUMBER
(Cucumis sativus)
Description
Annual twining vine that grows to several
feet long. The flowers are yellow.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Acne, fever, headache, intestinal flu,
sunburn.
Medicinal
Eczema, bronchitis, chest and lung
inflammations, cystitis, diarrhea, painful
and frequent urination, skin problems,
whooping cough,
PEPINO CIMARRON / CREEPING

CUCUMBER
(Melothria guadalupensis)
Religious/Magical
Correlating Odu: Irete Meji.
To attract love.
Other names:
Brazil Cereja Purga
Panama - Sandillita
U.S. - Guadalupe cucumber
PEONIA / BEED VINE

(Abrus precatorious)
Description
Perennial vine with thin and smooth stem.
The leaves are alternate, toothed and
shallowly or deeply five lobed; flowers are
yellow. Blooms first appear in late spring
and continue into early fall; the fruit is like
a tiny watermelon, green to black with
white seeds.
Other names:
Brazil - Jequirity
Colombia - Brujitos, chochitos de Indio,
pionas, peronilla.
Cuba - Jequirity, peona de Santo Toms,
perona, pepusa.
Haiti - Gren'n l'Eglise, Lyan'n Rglisse,
Lyan'n L'glise, Rglisse, Graine-Rglisse
Lukumi - Ewereyeye
Mexico - Peona, Xocoac
Puerto Rico - Perona, peronillas.
U.S. - Wild licorice, crab's-eyes.
Description
Woody climbing vine
abruptly pinnate leaves.
with
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oya
alternate,
USES
Medicinal
The seeds are poisonous
163
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USES
PERALEJO DEL MONTE / GOLDEN
SPOON
(Brysonima crassifolia)
Medicinal
Anemia, body stones, body toxins, cystitis,
dropsy, earache, eye infections, freckles,
hair loss, lactation, insect bites, jaundice,
menstrual flow, rheumatism, stings,
toothache.
Other names:
U.S. - Nance
Description
Low shrub or a small tree. The variableshaped leaves usually are formed in
whorls of three. The yellow, acid fruits are
about one-half inch in diameter.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun, Oya and Elegba


prosperity.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
To cause loss of virility.
Other
Insect repellent
Dandruff
Mosquito repellent
PERALECHO MACHO: Vacabuey

PERDICERO: Ua de Gato
PICA PICA / COWAGE

(Mucuna pruriens)
PEREGRINA
(Jatropha diversifolia)
Other names:
Kongo Ote
Lukumi Sisi, Iseliye, Rira, Aguanara,
Aina
Nicaragua - Gusano de pica pica
U.S. Cow itch
Other names:
Kongo Ntingoro
Lukumi - Ero
Description
Plants common in calcareous hills. The
flowers are red.
Description
Leguminous climbing plant, with long,
slender branches, alternate, lanceolate
leaves on hairy petioles, 6 to 12 inches
long, with large, white flowers, growing in
clusters of two or three, with a bluishpurple, butterfly-shaped corolla. The pods
or legumes, hairy, thick, and leathery,
averaging 4 inches long. They are of a rich
dark brown color, thickly covered with stiff
hairs.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
For cleansings.
For purification rituals.
PEREJIL / PARSLEY
(Carum petroselinum)
USES
Other names:
Kongo Ntuoro, Vititi kamatuya
Lukumi - Isako, iyadede
Medicinal
Itch.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Babalu Aye, Elegba
Correlating Odu: Iwori Obara
For amulets and relics.
Description
Cultivated biennial growing to 6 inches.
164
Rites of Palo
For spells and amulets
To cause turmoil and arguments.
Works as an aphrodisiac.
USES
Medicinal
Catarrh,
impotence,
inflammation,
menstrual pains, stomach upset.
P. DE GATO / DUMBCANE
(Dieffenbachia seguine)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun
For spells
Other names:
Cuba - Caamuda
PIMIENTA DE GUINEA / GUINEA

PEPPER
(Xylopia aethiopica)
Description
Herbaceous perennial reaching up to 3.5
feet tall. In bloom during the summer. The
leaves are green, variegated, simple and
coarse. The flowers are green.
Other names:
Lukumi - Atare
USES
Description
Guinea pepper is produced by the West
African pepper tree, a slim, tall tree of
about 70 feet high with straight stem and a
slightly stripped or smooth bark.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Ogun
In spells to cause impotence.
USES
Boil, bronchitis, dysentery, intestinal
worms and parasites, lumbago, neuralgia,
rheumatism, toothaches.
PIERDE RASTRO
Other names:
Cuba - Tapacamino, rompecamino.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
For Egun and Orisha rituals
ceremonies.
For spells
USES
Religious/Magical
To expel undesired persons
To avoid being caught by a pursuer.
PIMIENTA / PEPPER
(Pimenta)
and
PIMIENTA MALAGUETA
(Guatteria neglecta)
Other names:
Kongo Esakukaku
Lukumi - Ata
Other names:
Cuba Purio Prieto
Description
Indigenous tree found near streams.
Grows up to 50 ft. high. The leaves are
lanceolate.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Ogunda
Rites of Palo
To pack amulets
PIMIENTA CHINA / CHINESE PEPPER
Other names:
Kongo Tuola
Lukumi - Osei
165
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USES
USES
Medicinal
Digestive problems, joint aches and pains,
muscular pains, poor blood circulation,
toothaches.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Eshu
For mischievous spells.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun
To condiment food offerings for Ogun.
PINO / CARIBBEAN PINE

(Pinus caribaea)
Other names:
Cuba - Pino macho
Kongo - Bundumoye
Lukumi - Okilan, Orukoikan
Guatemala -Pino colorado, ocote
Puerto Rico - Pino, pino caribea
PIMIENTA NEGRA / BLACK PEPPER

(Piper nigrun)
Description
The black pepper is produced by a woody,
broad-leaved cultivated evergreen vine.
The stout vine, which is allowed to climb
poles or small trees in cultivation, bears
many slender, densely packed flower
spikes. The fruits that develop upon these
spikes are generally harvested while still
green; the signal is the reddening of the
lowest fruits on a spike. The green fruits
are dried until the flesh around the single
hard seed is wrinkled and grayish black,
then ground into black pepper.
Description
Pine tree that grows to a height of 100 ft
and with trunk diameters of 30 to 40 in.
Boles are clear up to 70 ft and with
moderate taper.
USES
Medicinal
Gum diseases.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango
Correlating Odu: Iroso Ojuani.
Planted outside the house to attract

good fortune and protection.
USES
Medicinal
Boils, fever, flatulence, nausea, sore
throat, skin diseases.
PIA / PINAPPLE
(Ananas comosus)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun
For spells to cause turmoil.
Other names:
Haiti - Ananas, Zan'nan'na
Kongo Mereten Mingue
Lukumi Egboibo, Oppoyibo
PINIPINICHE / POISONWOOD
(Metopium toxiferum)
Description
Perennial, herbaceous succulent, up to 3
ft. tall; leaves long, sword-like, arranged in
a tight spiral around a short stem, edges
very sharply dentate to nearly entire, often
variegated, or red or brown streaked;
flowers purplish-blue, fruit a composite of
100200 seedless fruits fused into a tight,
compact unit, developing along axis of
stem, oval to cylindrical, yellowish to
orange, often greenish.
Description
A tree that has dark green, glossy, wedgeshaped leaflets hanging from the stem
blotched with irregular spots of the black
resin. The small creamy-white blossom
clusters develop into oval, dull orange
fruit. All parts of this tree are poisonous.
The poison is a resin, visible on the gray
or reddish bark.
166
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Orunla.
Rites of Palo
Medicinal
Abscesses, bladder ailments, contusions,
corns, scarlet fever, scurvy, sores,
sprains, tumors, ulcerations, warts.
PIA DE SALON
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ibeji
Offering for the Orishas
Planted outside the house to attract

prosperity.
Other names:
Cuba - Pia de Salon, pia de adorno.
Kongo Maba nlonbe
Lukumi Iye, Koroyima, Ogba eweko
USES
PIA BLANCA / WHITE PINAPPLE

(Ananas sativus)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
For amulets to attract prosperity
For love binding spells.
Other names:
Cuba - Pia blanca.
Haiti - Ananas Pain de Sucre, Nana
USES
PII PII / CHEESE SHRUB

(Morinda royoc)
Medicinal
Hoarseness, digestive ailments.
Other names:
Cuba Raz de Indio
U.S. Cheese plant, Cheese weed,
Yellow root, Redgal, Strongback, stiffcock.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
For purification rituals
Description
A low, shrubby, rubiaceous plant growing
along seacoasts. It has small, white,
odorous flowers.
PIA DE RATON / WILD PINAPPLE

(Bromelia pinguin)
Other names:
Haiti - An-nan'na Pengwen, Bayonnet
Pengouin
Kongo Ekeni, Muingue
Lukumi Omo igi boibo, maimai
U.S. Pinguin of Jamaica
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Eshu
Extremely negative properties.
Description
Clumping rosette, 4 feet tall up to 10 feet
wide that may contain as many as 40
leaves. Stiff, linear, long-attenuate leaves,
serrated and armed with sharp, recurved
prickles. The leaves gradually change
from a shiny green to a reddish color as
they age. White or pinkish flowers
produced on a dense panicle that arises
from the heart of the plant. Ovoid, pointed
fruits are 1 to 2 inches in length and turn
yellow at maturity.
PION AMOROSO
(Gliricidia Sepium)
Other names:
Costa Rica - Bala, Sangre de drago
Cuba - Pin amoroso, acacia, amor y
celos, arbol del amor, bien vestida,
desnudo florecido, jpiter,
pin florido, pion francs, pin
milagroso
Guatemala Cansim
Nicaragua - Madriado
Panama, Colombia - Mata ratn
USES
Medicinal
Digestive complaints, intestinal parasites.
167
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Description
Smooth deciduous tree. Leaves alternate,
pinnately compound, bluntly pointed at the
tip, rounded at the base, entire. Flowers
on numerous lateral racemes, pinkish.
Pods yellow-green when immature,
turning blackish. Elliptic, flat, shiny,
blackish seed.
USES
Medicinal
Bleeding gums, burns, convulsions,
cough, dermatitis, diarrhea, dropsy,
dysentery, eczema, erysipelas, fever,
gonorrhea, gout, hemorrhoids, hernia,
incontinence,
inflammation,
jaundice,
neuralgia, paralysis, parturition, pleurisy,
pneumonia, rash, rheumatism, ringworm,
scabies, sciatica, skin ailments, sores,
stomachache, syphilis, tetanus, thrush,
toothache, tumors, ulcers, uterosis,
whitlows, yaws, and yellow fever.
USES
Medicinal
Boils, bruises, burns, colds, cough,
debility, eruptions, erysipelas, fever,
fractures, gangrene, head-ache, itch,
prickly heat, rheumatism, skin, sore,
tumors, ulcers, urticaria, and wounds.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala, Shango, Elegba.
Correlating Odu: Iroso Meji, Obara Ejionle,
Obara Otura and Iroso Meji.

protection
In amulets for protection and to ward

off from death.

witchcraft.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ofun Meji.
PION DE BOTIJA / PHYSIC NUT
(Jatropha curcas)
Other names:
Brazil - Piao, Piao branco, pinhao bravo
Costa Rica - Tapate, coquillo
Colombia - Pion de purga, tuatua,
frailecillo, frailejon
Cuba - Pin de botija, pion de cercas
El Salvador - Tempate
Guatemala - Tempacte
Haiti - Mdicinier, mdicinier bni,
Medsinyen bat, Mdecinier Rouge, BoisOrtolan, Graine Ortolan, Zb Zotolan, Petit
Medecinier
Honduras - Cotoncillo
Kongo Puluka, Masorosi
Lukumi Ado, Alumofo, Akunu
Mexico - Pin de Indias, Sangreado,
pioncillo
Nicaragua - Tempate
Panama - Coquillo
Puerto Rico - Trtago, pion, pion
purgante
U.S. Barbados nut, purge nut, curcasbean
PION CRIOLLO: Pion de Botija

PION FLORIDO: Pin amoroso
PION DE PITO / CORAL BEAN
(Erythrina berteroana)
Other names:
Cuba - Pin de cerca, bcare
Kongo Fosongako
Lukumi Efeke, Yirin
Puerto Rico Pion espinoso
Description
Armed tree to 30 ft. tall, the leaves
alternate, trifoliate, entire shortly acute or
acuminate at the apex. Flowers pinkish to
red, appearing with the leaves, in terminal
racemes. Pod dark brown, curved; the
several seeds oblongoid, bright orange
red.
USES
Description
A shrub that grows up to 6 ft. Spreading
branches, smooth gray bark, white flowers
and large (pale) green leaves. Capsules,
which commonly have an oblong black
seed.
Medicinal
Dysentery, female ailments, hemorrhages,
nervousness.
168
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba
Under the pillow to insure a good

night sleep.
PISCUALA / RANGOON CREEPER

(Quisqualis indica)
Other names:
Lukumi - Momon
PION DE PUAL: Bayoneta
Description
Ligneous vine; leaf elliptic to oblong or
ovate to lanceolate, rather abruptly
acuminate apically, obtuse to rounded
basally; flowers in panicles brightly colored
white, red, very fragrant; fruit ovate-elliptic
in
profile,
5-winged,
uncommonly
produced.
PION LECHOSO
Other names:
Kongo Masorosi, Puluka
Lukumi Ewera, Ado
USES
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Eshu, Ogun
To counteract an ingested love spell.
Medicinal
Abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, parasitic
skin troubles, tired feet, intestinal parasites
and worms.
PION VOMICO / PHYSIC NUT

(Jathropa multifida)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango
Correlating Odu: Obara Otura.
Other names:
Barbados - French physic-nut
Colombia - Trtago emtico, coral
Costa Rica - Chicasquil
Cuba - Pin vmico, ceibilla, pin
extrangero, castao purgante.
Dominican Republic - Pin de Espaa,
pin extrangero, yuca cimarrona.
Haiti -Mdicinier espagnol, papaye
sauvage, mdicinier d'Inde.
Jamaica - Spanish physic-nut, French
physic-nut
Mexico - Cabalongo
Puerto Rico - Don Toms, mana, trtago
U.S. - Coral plant
Venezuela - Emtico vegetal
PITAHAYA/RED PITAHAYA
(Hylocereus tricostatus)
Other names:
Brazil - cardeiro trepador, cardo ananas
Cuba - Flor del cliz.
Haiti - Cierge-liane, cierge rampant
Kongo Belongo
Lukumi Esogi
Mexico Junco, Junco Tapatio
Puerto Rico Flor de Caliz
U.S. Strawberry pear, belle of the night,
concerella plant, common night blooming
cereus
Description
A small tree or shrub, commonly 3-7 feet
tall, but may reach 20 feet. Leaves dark
green; alternate, simple, large; flowers
small, scarlet centers with small yellow
petals, resemble a piece of coral. Borne in
small, loose clusters in their axils of the
leaves; fruit yellow in color, usually 3angled capsule; slightly over an inch long,
poisonous.
Description
Vine. The flowers are red, very large, open
and fragrant at night. Fruit oblong, 8-12
cm, red; pulp white, juicy, and very sweet.
The pulp contains many small seeds.
USES
Medicinal
Colic, fever, leprosy, scabies,
venereal diseases, wounds.
sores,
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USES
PLATANO / BANANA / PLAINTAIN

(Musa paradisiaca)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Babalu Aye
Correlating Odu: Odi Ogunda.
Other names:
Cuba Bananito, Platano macho
Haiti - Banananye, Bannan'n Miske,
Kongo - Makondo
Lukumi - Ogede Agbagba
PITAJONI BRAVO: Agalla de Costa

PITILLA: Canutillo
PITO DE BEJUCO: Canutillo
Description
Tree-like herb. The leaves are large,
overlapped forming a false trunk. The
stem reaches a height of up to 30 ft.; the
flowers spring from the center of the
plant's crown.
PLATANILLO DE CUBA / WILD PEPPER

(Piper aduncum)
Other names:
Arada Tevigami
Haiti - Bwa-Major
Lukumi - Olubo
Mexico
Platanillo,
Cordoncillo,
Cordoncillo blanco.
Peru - Matico
Puerto Rico - Higuillo, Higuillo oloroso
U.S. Spiked pepper, Matico Pepper
USES
Medicinal
Bile, burns, excessive menstrual flow,
diarrhea, dysentery, gangrene, gout,
hemorrhage, intestinal parasites, sore,
syphilis, tuberculosis, wart.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Aganju.
Correlating Odu: Odi Otrupon and Odi
Osa, Osa Ogbe, Otura Irete.
For Egun rituals and ceremonies.
Food preparation and offerings for the
Orishas and Egun
Rites of Palo
The purple variety is taboo.
For rituals
Description
Small tree to 12 feet tall. Short silt roots;
soft, brittle wood; foliage and twigs
aromatic; branches erect; drooping twigs
and swollen, purplish nodes; leaves
alternate, elliptic, petiolate, softly hairy
beneath; flowers white to pale yellow,
turning green with maturity; fruit a oneseeded berry, blackish when ripe; seeds
brown to black
USES
POLEO / LICORICE VERBENA

(Lippia alba)
Medicinal
Blood toxins, dropsy, eczema, gonorrhea,
leukorrhea, liver ailments, rheumatism,
skin disorders, sore, stomach ailments,
whites
Other names:
Brazil Carmelitana, Cidreira
Cuba - Poleo, quita dolor.
U.S. Bushy Lippia
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Odudua, Oshun
Correlating Odu: Odi Obara.
Rites of Palo
For rituals and spells.
Description
Tender perennial shrub reaching up to 4
ft. in height. The plant has a wonderful
licorice scent and attractive white flowers.
USES
Medicinal
Arthritis aches
problems.
170
and
pain,
digestive
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Used to make omiero for Babalu Aye
rituals
Rites of Palo
Description
Fast growing semi - woody evergreen
shrub growing up to a height of 12 feet.
Produces bright reddish-orange flowers
and a deep-red berry earning its name of
Scarlet Bush.
USES
POMARROSA / ROSE APPLE

(Eugenia jambos)
Medicinal
Cholera, cuts, diarrhea with blood, fever,
insect stings and bites, menstrual
disorders, uterine and ovarian afflictions,
skin fungus, skin problems, syphilis.
Other names:
Cuba - Pomarrosa, manzana rosa.
Kongo Colomaia
Lukumi Yilebo, Eshicasho
U.S. - Plum rose, malabar plum
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango and Babalu Aye.
Correlating Odu: Oshe Ofun, Ofun Otura.

negativity, witchcraft and evil spirits.
Description
A fruit tree originally from South Asia.
Growing up to 40 feet, with opposite
leathery leaves; creamy white flowers. The
fruit is large, white to cream and sweet
scented.
PRINGA HERMOSA
USES
Other names:
Kongo Nakato
Lukumi - Okorere
Medicinal
Diabetes, epilepsy, gonorrhea, white.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ejionle Ofun, and Okana
Ogunda.
Rites of Palo
Deactivates Nkisis and witchcraft.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
For protection amulets
PRINGAMOZA: Candelilla
PONASI / FIRE BUSH

(Hamelia patens)
PRODIGIOSA / LIFE EVERLASTING

(Bryophyllum pinnatum)
Other names:
Colombia - Bencenuco, leoncito, cresta de
gallo
Costa Rica - Zorrillo
Cuba - Bonasi, palo de coral
Guatemala - Chichipin
Honduras - Achiotillo Colorado
Kongo Nfita Sunda Mocna
Mexico - Chacloco
Nicaragua - Canilla de venado
Panama - Uvero
Puerto Rico - Balsamo colorado, pata de
pajaro
U.S. - Polly red head, Texas firecracker
Venezuela - Coralito
Other names:
Arar - Afami
Colombia - Colombina
Cuba - Siempreviva, Vbora, Inmortal, hoja
bruja.
Haiti - Lougarou, Fy Lougarou, Sanglou,
Sanglaou, Zb maltt
Lukumi - Ewe dun dun
Mexico Amor tras la puerta
Puerto Rico Bruja
Description
Succulent plant with basal rosette; leaves
are fleshy and alternate, coarsely toothed
171
Dalia Quiros-Moran
but rounded, edges of leaves are purple.

Flowers occur in corymbs/raceme and are
bell-like and pendulous. Flower has four
fused sepals with pointed tips; four fused
petals are red and pointed at tip and green
at base. Eight stamens with green
filaments and purple anthers; four pistils
stuck very close together are much shorter
than stamen. Stem is purple with green
flecks, slightly woody, grows about 3 ft.
tall.
USES
Medicinal
Skin conditions, skin inflammation.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
ritual omiero.
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Okana, Okana
Ofun.

household.
172
USES
QUIEBRA-HACHA / COPAIBA
(Copaifera hymenaefolis)
Medicinal
Asthma, constipation, liver ailments.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango
Correlating Odu: Odi Meji, Irete Otrupon,
Food offerings for Shango and Aganju.
For purification and cleansings of the

household and persons.
To ward off negative energies and

banish witchcraft
Other names:
Cuba - Caguairn.
Kongo Mbele Mukua Nketete
Lukumi Edu, Iggi Ele, Arudiki
Description
Indigenous tree, may reach a height of
100 ft and a trunk diameter of 4 ft. Found
in
mountainous,
calcareous
soils.
Heartwood reddish brown
USES
Medicinal
Flatulence,
diseases.
QUINA DEL PAIS O DE LA TIERRA:

Aguedita
constipation,
venereal
QUITA MALDICION / GRAY NICKERS

(Caesalpinia crista)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oya, Ogun.
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Ika.
Rites of Palo
Other names:
Cuba Mate gris, Guacalote
Panama - Calentura
U.S. Fevernut, Wait-a-bit, Bonduc nut,
Nickernut, Seanut
Description
A woody climber with pinnately compound
leaves and yellow flowers in terminal
racemes. The stems and leaves, bearing
recurved spines. The pods are 2-4
seeded, short, inflated and covered with
prickles. The seeds are nearly round,
glossy gray
QUIMBOMBO / OKRA
(Hibiscus esculentus)
Other names:
Brazil - Quimgombo
Cuba - Quimbomb
Haiti - Kalalou, Calalou-Gombo
Kongo Gondei, Bae
Lukumi - Ila
U.S. Gumbo
USES
Medicinal
Acne,
asthma,
colic,
congestion,
convulsions, depurative, diarrhea, dropsy,
fever,
gonorrhea,
leprosy,
malaria,
neuroses, palsy, snakebite.
Description
An herbaceous annual, with a stem
somewhat woody at the base, attaining a
height of from 3 to 6 feet, and being 3 or 4
inches thick, bearing alternate, serrate
leaves. The flowers are solitary, large, and
showy; of a pale yellow, tinged at the base
a dark crimson. The herbaceous portions
of the plant are clothed with sharp bristles,
and often bear purplish spots. The fruit is
a pentagonal, narrow, cylindrical capsule,
from 2 to 12 inches long, tapering at the
base, and about I inch in diameter. It is
often curved, and is covered with hairs,
especially along the ridges. The pods
contain several roundish or kidney-shaped
smooth seeds in each of the several cells.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Obatala and Ibeji
Correlating Odu: Ofun Osa, Ofun Meji,
Okana Oshe, Otura Okana, Otura Obara,
Otura Ofun, Irete Iwori, Odi Ogunda.
173
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Rites of Palo
To make Nkisi lango
For cleansings and purification baths

to banish negativity and attract good
fortune.
174
RAIZ DE CHINA / GREENBRIER

(Smilax vulgaris)
RABO DE GATO / MARSH

BRISTLEGRASS
(Chaetochloa imberbis)
Other names:
Cuba Bejuco Chino, Zarzaparrilla de la
tierra.
Mexico Chiquihuite
Puerto Rico Bejuco Membrillo
Other names:
Cuba - Almorejo, rabito peludo
Description.
A woody, climbing vine with conspicuous
tendrils and stout, thorny stems. The
leaves are ovate, elliptical, or shaped like
a fiddle or arrowhead with distinct lobes at
the leaf base. They are simple, alternately
arranged, glossy green and smooth
above, paler below; flowers small,
greenish-white clusters or umbels that
bloom in the spring. Clusters of shiny,
black berries in late summer or fall.
Description
Warm season grass. Begins growing in
May. Heads will emerge in June and begin
flowering in July through September.
Abundant in disturbed sites, especially in
wetter cultivated soils and waste places.
USES
Medicinal
Erysipelas.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Ibeji.
Correlating Odu: Otura Niko.
Causes negative effects on pregnant

women and the unborn child.
Medicinal
Arthritis, body toxins, gout, rheumatism,
skin eruptions, uric acid.
RAIZ DE INDIO: Pii Pii
RABO DE ZORRA/SOUR GRASS

(Trichachne insulares)
RASCABARRIGA
(Espadaea amoena)
Other names:
Haiti - Herbe A Ble
U.S. Cotton grass, Feather-top grass,
Silky grass
Other names:
Cuba - Rascabarriga, arrayn
Lukumi - Om, ek ore
Description
Shrub reaching heights up to 6 ft; found in
arid, calcareous soils and high coastal
areas. The leaves are stiff.
Description
Large perennial grass with more or less
erect culms, branching up to 4 ft. high.
Found in calcareous soils.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Antidote for Guao.
Medicinal
Contusions, urinary track ailments, wound.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba
For Orisha and Egun rituals.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba
Correlating Odu: Oshe Ogbe
RABITO PELUDO: Almorejo
175
Dalia Quiros-Moran
RASPA LENGUA / BRAGGART

(Cosearia hirsuta)
RESEDA / COMMON MIGNONETTE

(Reseda odorata)
Description
Cultivated, ornamental herbaceous plant.
Fragrant small yellowish flowers.
Other names:
Cuba - Raspalengua, ja amarilla
Kongo - Nkanga, nkfindula
Lukumi - Ewe Elenu
USES
Description
Shrub with elliptical, serrated leaves. The
wood is pale yellow, compact.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya, Inle.
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Ojuani.
For love spells.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba
Correlating Odu: Oshe Obara.
Rites of Palo
To succeed in legal matters
To stop gossip
RETAMA / JACKASS BITTERS

(Neurolaena lobata)
Other names:
Colombia Salvia gavilana
Costa Rica - Gavilana
Cuba - Romerillo, salvia
victoriana.
Lukumi Chachara, Ewe Ale
REMOLACHA / SPANISH BEET

(Beta vulgaris)
cimarrona,
Description
Tall herb growing up to 5 ft. high. The
leaves are papery and rough; flowers
yellow. The whole plant very aromatic.
Other names:
Haiti - Betrav
Description
Biennial growing to 1 ft. Leaves close to
the ground, glabrous, ovate to cordate,
dark green or reddish; flowers small,
numerous in a tall open panicle; fruit an
aggregate of 2 or more fruits forming an
irregular dry body; root strong and hard,
usually a deep red color.
USES
Medicinal
Fever, fungus, gonorrhea, intestinal
parasites,
itch,
malaria,
menstrual
problems, ringworm, stomach ailments.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Meji.
USES
Medicinal
Blisters. Bronchitis. Bruises. Burns.
Cough. Dandruff. Eye inflammation. Hair
loss. Head colds. Headache. Jaundice.
Liver ailments. Menstrual problems.
Sluggish
digestion.
Urinary
track
obstruction. Insect bites. Sores. Skin
itches. Toothaches. Ulcers. Whites.
REVIENTA CABALLO / INDIAN

TOBACCO
(Isotoma longiflora)
Other names:
Brazil Jasmin Da Italia, Cega Olho
Colombia Ciega ojo
Cuba - Revienta caballo, quibey, tibey
Dominican Republic - Quibey
Kongo - fita fwa kmbo
Lukumi: Ern opani chin
U.S. Star of Bethlehem, fetia,
madamfate
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
176
ROMERILLO / BEGGAR'S TICKS

(Bidens pilosa)
Description
Herb with rosette of narrow leaves; flowers
white. The milky sap is very poisonous.
Other names:
Brazil Picao Preto, Ciambu, Carrapicho
agulha
Haiti - Zegwi
Peru - Cadillo
U.S. - Spanish Needles
USES
Medicinal
Epilepsy.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oya
Rites of Palo
Description
Small erect annual herb growing up to two
feet high. Grows in damp lowland fields
and wasteland. Considered a weed in
many places, it has bright green leaves
with serrated prickly edges and produces
small yellow flowers.
ROBLE/WHITE CEDAR
(Tabebuia pentaphylla)
Other names:
Brazil Ipe-rosa
Costa Rica Roble de Sabana
Cuba Roble blanco
Lukumi - Akgi
Mexico Roble blanco, macuil, limaa,
roble prieta.
Panama Roble de sabana, roble
sabanero
U.S. - Pink tecoma, pink trumpet tree
USES
Medicinal
Angina, diabetes, dropsy, dysentery,
fevers, fluid retention, food poisoning,
headaches, hepatitis, intestinal ailments,
laryngitis, leucorrhoea, jaundice, diabetes,
sore throat, tonsillitis, obstructions in the
liver and other liver disorders, toothache
upset stomach, urinary infections, vaginal
infections, worms, wounds
Description
Tree up to 30 ft. or more in height. The
Leaves compound, opposite, elliptic to
oblanceolate
or
obovate,
leathery;
surfaces glabrous; Inflorescence of one to
several flowers borne in short terminal
clusters with 5 rounded lobes at the tip,
pink or lavender with a pale yellow throat.
Fruit a narrow cylindrical capsule, opening
along two seams to release the numerous
winged seeds.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun, Ogun, Inle.
Correlating Odu: Oyekun Ika, Otura
Obara, Otura Okana, Odi Osa.

banish negativity.
To expel ingested witchcraft.

ROMERO / ROSEMARY
(Rosmarinus officinalis)
USES
Medicinal
Boil, fever, respiratory ailments, snakebite,
swelling.
Other names:
Brazil - Alecrim
Haiti - Romarin
Lukumi Ewe re
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Ojuani, Ojuani
Yeku.
Description
Cultivated plant up to 6 feet tall, 4 feet
wide. Blooms in late winter and spring.
177
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
Description
Aromatic perennial that reaches 2 to 4 feet
high, and grows in partial sun. prefers
damp to moist rich soils.
Medicinal
Depression, debility, digestive ailments,
flatulent dyspepsia, food poisoning,
headache,
insomnia,
menstruation
problems, neuralgia, pain, premature
baldness, rheumatic aches, sciatica,
tension, wounds.
USES
Medicinal
Catarrh, fevers, flu.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya, Odudua
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Irete.

household.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Oshun and Ibeji.
Correlating Odu: Ejionle Okana, Odi
Ogunda, Irete Iwori.
Used for Babalu Aye rituals.
Rites of Palo
For rituals, ceremonies and amulets
To prepare Nkisi lango.
To cleanse and purify objects and the

household.
Banishes negative energies and

witchcraft.

drive away evil spirits and negativity.
ROMPECAMISA MACHO / DAMIANA

(Turnera diffusa)
Other names:
Arada Akabon
Cuba - Damiana
Haiti - Oreg mawon
Description
Densely branched dwarf shrub, the
branches clothed with tiny gray aromatic
leaves. Small brilliant yellow flowers.
Found in hot, humid climates.
Description
Cultivated plant with numerous varieties.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Asthma, bronchitis, depression, neurosis,
and various sexual disorders such as
impotence/infertility (male).
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
For baths to attract good fortune and
prosperity.
ROSAS / ROSES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ofun Osa
ROSA FRANCESA / OLEANDER

(Nerium oleander)
Other names:
Colombia - Azuceno de la Habana
Dominican Republic - Martinica, rosa del
Per, pirul
Ecuador - Laurel rosado
El Salvador - Narciso, narciso rosado
Haiti - Laurier rose, laurier tropical
Kongo Meni-Meni
Lukumi Teteli, Didekere
Puerto Rico - Alel, alhel, alel extrangero,
laurel rosado
U.S. - Rose Bay
Venezuela - Rosa de berbera
ROMPESARAGEY / BONESET
(Eupatorium odoratum)
Other names:
Arada - Alumofo
Cuba - Albahaca de sabana, travesera y
zanca de grullo, trebolillo, albahaquilla
Haiti - Lang-Shat, Gurit tout, Fleurit Nol,
Gurit trop vite
Kongo - Ntema din finda
Lukumi - Tabate
178
greenish-yellow flowers are in terminal

panicles, blossoming from June to
September.
Description
Ornamental evergreen shrub, fast growing
to 10 feet. The narrow leathery leaves are
dark green and glossy clustered at the
twig or branches. The flowers are 2" to 3"
across, in a variety of colors, clustered at
end of branches.
USES
Medicinal
Chronic bronchitis, coughs, colic and
flatulence, delivery, digestive complaints,
headache,
hemorrhages,
hysterical
affections,
nervousness,
palpitation
nervous headache, sciatica
USES
Medicinal
Chest ailments, corns, skin ailments,
warts.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Inle and Shango
Not used to make ritual omiero.
Correlating Odu: Odi Ejionle
In the household for protection

against negativity and evil spirits.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yewa
Correlating Odu: Ika Ojuani
ROSA DE JERICO / HUNDRED LEAVED
ROSE
(Rosa centifolia)
RUDA CIMARRONA
(Dalea domingense)
Other names:
U.S. - Cabbage rose-petals
Other names:
Cuba - Santa Barbara, yerba de Santa
Barbara.
Description
An erect shrub, 3 to 6 feet in height. The
branches closely covered with nearly
straight prickles. Shoots erect. Leaves
unequally pinnate. The flowers are large,
usually of a pink color, but varying in hue,
form, size, etc.; flower bud short and
ovoid. Petals 5, and usually pale-red. Fruit
ovoid.
Description
Common shrub from dry limestone hills. It
has green lacy leaves with purple flowers.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango
Correlating Odu: Osa Ofun.
USES
Medicinal
Hemorrhages.
Religious/Magical
To attract good fortune,
prosperity in the household.
RUIBARBO / RHUBARB
(Rheum officinale)
love
and
Other names:
Cuba - Ruibarbo de la tierra, pia ratn,
piipii, raz de indio.
Kongo - Futuako
Lukumi Eruko ewe kan
RUDA / RUE
(Ruta graveolens)
Other names:
Cuba Hierba de Santa Barbara
Haiti - Wou
Lukumi Atopa kun
U.S. Herb of grace.
Description
A perennial plant which forms large fleshy
rhizomes and large leaves with long, thick
stalks.
Description
A perennial herb, woody at the base, up to
2 feet in height. The leaves are much
divided and have a very strong odor. The
179
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
Medicinal
Intestinal and liver ailments, menstrual
problems.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Osayin.
180
SABILA/ ALOE
(Aloe vera)
SABELECCION / PEPPER GRASS

(Lepidium virginicum)
Other names
Cuba - Sabila, aloe
Haiti - Lalwa, alos, alo, lalo, laloi
U.S. - Barbados aloe, cape aloe, Curacao
aloe, west Indian aloe, Zanzibar aloe
Other names:
Cuba Mastuerzo
Haiti - Kreson danwa
Lukumi Ishini-shini
U.S. Pepperweed
Description
A perennial succulent native to East and
South Africa. The tissue in the center of
the aloe leaf contains a gel, which yields
aloe gel, or aloe vera gel. Yellow flowers.
Black seeds.
Description
An annual weed that develops as a basal
rosette initially, eventually producing white
flowering stems that have a bottlebrush
appearance.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Asthma, burns, congestion, cough, cuts,
eczema, fever, gonorrhea, headache,
hemorrhoids, insect bites, intestinal
worms, menstruation problems, mouth
sores, nausea, piles, pyorrhea, skin
irritation, sores, stomach ache, sunburn,
swelling, tuberculosis, worms, wounds,
wrinkles.
Medicinal
Catarrh, Cold, colic, diabetes, dysentery,
kidney and liver ailments, rheumatism,
ringworm, scabies, scurvy, sores, stomach
ailments, intestinal parasites, urinary track
stones, and worms.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Ogun.
To attract love.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya
The plant inside the household for

protection against negativity and
attract good fortune.
SABICU / WILD TAMARIND

(Lysiloma latisiqua)
SABINA / SOUTHERN REDCEDAR

(Juniperus lucayana)
Other names:
Cuba - Jige
U.S. Cuban tamarind
Other names
U.S. - Sand cedar, coast juniper, coast red
cedar, southern juniper, southern red
juniper
Description
A smooth-barked tree with light green,
compound
leaves,
greenish-yellow,
powder-puff flowers. Reaches a height of
up to 50 feet.
Description
Low growing, evergreen tree that
produces needle-like foliage. The wood is
rose color, aromatic.
USES
Medicinal
Fever, blood depurative, diarrhea.
USES
Medicinal
Menstrual problems, premature hair loss,
syphilis.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
181
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya
SALVADERA / SAND BOX TREE

(Hura crepitans)
Other names:
Brazil Aceitero, Assacu, Cataua
Colombia Acuapar, Milpesos, Arenillero
Cuba - Haba, habilla
Haiti Rabi
Panama - Tronador
Puerto Rico Ceibote, Ceibillo, Javillo
U.S. - Possum wood, dynamite tree
Venezuela - Javilla
SACU-SACU
Other names:
Cuba Malanguilla
Description
USES
Description
A tropical tree, reaches heights of 90 to
130 feet, with spiny trunk and branches.
The bark is covered with conical spines.
The long-stemmed, oval leaves are
papery thin, heart-shaped and up to 2 feet
long. It has red flowers. Wood is soft, pale
yellow or brown.
Medicinal
Menstrual disorders, syphilis
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Inle, Osayin.
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Odi
Rites of Palo
Love and binding spells
The root to remove

witchcraft.
USES
ingested
Medicinal
Constipation, eczema.
SAGU / ARROWROOT
(Maranta arundinancea)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Oshe Eyioko, Ojuani
Ogbe, Okana Ejionle.
For purification and ritual baths and
cleansings of persons and the household
to ward off from death and negativity.
Other names:
Cuba - Yuquilla
Description
A herbaceous perennial plant; creeping
rhizome; fleshy cylindrical tubers with
rings of scars, leftover of large thin scales.
The stem reaches a height of 6 feet with
creamy white flowers at the end. Ovate
leaves, with long sheaths covering the
stem.
SALVIA / MARSH FLEBANE

(Pluchea odorata)
Other names:
Bahamas - Sour Bush
Cuba - Salvia de playa, salvia cimarrona,
salvia del pais
El Salvador - Suquinay, Ciguapate,
Nahuapate,
suquinayo,
suquinay,
siguapete
Guatemala - Suqinay
Lukumi - Wuro
Mexico - Santa Maria, Hierba Santa Maria,
Calche
U.S. - Wild tobacco
USES
Medicinal
Dysentery,
erysipelas,
sunburn, wound.
hoarseness,
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ibeji.
182
Description
Erect shrub; leaves dull gray-green,
elliptic-lanceolate or narrowly elliptic-sub
ovate; inflorescence compound, terminal
and sub terminal; heads of numerous
flowers, pink or pinkish to white.
SALVIA MORADA
(Pluchea bifrons)
USES
Medicinal
Dandruff, sore joints.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Medicinal
Headache, insect bites and stings,
muscular aches and pains, neuralgia,
rheumatism, stomach ailments.
SAN DIEGO / GLOBE AMARANTH

(Gomphrena globosa)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Babalu Aye and Odua
Correlating Odu: Otura Ofun, Otura
Okana, Irete Iroso, Osa Okana, Otrupon
Meji, Ojuani Osa.
Other names:
Cuba - Flor de San Diego.
Haiti - Marguerite, Immortelle, Marguerite
Blanche, Marguerite Bleue
Lukumi Mai Toto
Description
Tender annual, 6 to 18 inches tall
depending on variety, 6-12 inches in
width. The plant is erect, leaves
lanceolate, spear shaped. The flowers are
papery, rather clover like, white or purple.
SALVIA DE CASTILLA / SAGE

(Salvia officinalis)
Other names:
Cuba - Salvia de castilla
Haiti - Vilner
Kongo Vititi Leka
Lukumi - Kiriwi
USES
Medicinal
Catarrh, dysentery, intestinal ailments,
liver ailments.
Description
Evergreen perennial shrub, with strong
taproot and square, woody branching
stems up to 2 ft tall. It is gray and woolly
when young. It has gray-green colored
soft leaves, with a pebbly texture, which
are oblong or lanceolate, and finely
toothed. Whorls of violet-blue flowers
appear in spikes in summer.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Obara Iwori.
Ritual baths to banish evil spirits.

SANGRE DE DONCELLA / LOCUST
BERRY
(Byrsonima lucida)
USES
Medicinal
Common
cold,
cough,
digestive
discomforts,
dyspepsia,
esophageal
irritation, fever, gum diseases, headache,
insomnia,
intestinal
inflammation,
laryngitis, menstruation problems, nausea,
night sweat, poison oak, respiratory
ailments, sore, sore throat, stomach
inflammation, tonsillitis, warts.
Other names:
Bahamas - Locust-berry, guana-berry,
candleberry.
Cuba - Carne de Doncella, sangre de
doncella, palo seorita, sabica de costa
Dominican Republic - Doncella
Lukumi Undia, Akeri
Puerto Rico - Palo de doncella, aceituna,
sangre de doncella, maricao.
U.S. - Long Key byrsonima
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
183
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Description
Tree with dull dark green leaves, light
green on the underside, thin and stiff.
They are one-to-two inches long and may
be rounded or pointed at the tip. The
clustered white flowers turn yellow to pink
or red. The fruit is fleshy with one hard
stone, somewhat like a miniature peach.
The fruit is red when it ripens in summer.
Description
Algae that grows up to 2 ft in length. Long
fronds with short lateral leaf-like branches
and small air-filled bladders at their axils.
Grows in sheltered seas from the surface
down to moderate depths.
USES
Medicinal
Scrofula, ulcers and eruptions.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya, Oshun, Elegba.
Ritual baths to banish witchcraft.
Medicinal
Skin diseases.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
For amulets to attract love, or bind.
SARNILLA / WILD COFFEE

(Casearia sylvestris)
SAPOTE / SAPODILLA
(Sapota achras)
Other names:
Brazil - Erva de Bugre
Other names:
Kongo Kobanko
Lukumi - Nekigbe
U.S. - Wild dilly
Description
Tree. Reaching heights of up 30 ft. The
flowers are cream-yellow; the fruit is
green, deep burgundy when mature. The
seeds are covered with a yellow-orange
aril.
Description
Common tropical fruit that produces
attractive evergreen trees often reaching a
height of 60 feet or more. The elliptic to
obovate leaves are 2 to 5 inches long and
1 to 2 inches wide. Small flowers, white or
pink. The fruit is brown in the outside and
yellow pink inside. The seeds are black,
lustrous.
USES
Medicinal
Digestive ailments, flu, leprosy, wound.
SASAFRAS / HOLY WOOD
(Bursera graveolens)
USES
Other names:
Colombia - Tajamaco
Ecuador Palo Santo
Medicinal
Debility, hemorrhages, insomnia.
Description
Exotic, aromatic tree with compound
leaves. The flowers are white; soft, white
wood; green fruit.
Religious/Magical:
Orisha worship
Belongs to Ibeji and Ogun.
Correlating Odu: Ejionle Eyioko

household. To banish witchcraft and
negativity
SARGASO / SARGASSO WEED
(Sargassum vulgare)
Other names:
Lukumi Ayarayere
184
USES
Description
Flowering shrub or small tree, growing to
20 feet. Leaves green, pinnately
compound. Yellow blossoms in spring
and fall. Fruit narrow capsules.
Medicinal
Blood toxins, leprosy, ophthalmic ailments,
digestive ailments.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
It is taboo to plant this tree near the house
or bring it inside the house. Do not use
for Omiero.
Correlating Odu: Ejionle Okana.
USES
Medicinal
Diabetes, liver and
stomach
ailments,
incontinence.
kidney ailments,
syphilis,
urine
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Olokun, Ogun.
SAUCE / WEEPING WILLOW

(Salix Humboldtiana)
Other names:
Argentina Sauce criollo.
Chile - Sauce chileno, Sauce amargo,
Sauce colorado, Sauce negro, Sauce
cimarrn y Sauce de Castilla
SAUCO BLANCO / ELDERBERRY

(Sambucus canadensis)
Other names:
Haiti -Fleur sureau.
Puerto Rico - Sauco
U.S. - Florida Elder, golf elder, southern
elder.
Description
Tree found in riverbanks, stream banks
and shorelines. Reaches up to 30-50 ft.
high. The leaves are thin, narrow,
sometimes with whitened or silky
undersides. Twigs and branchlets very
long and drooping, with brittle bases.
Description
Soft-stemmed shrub, which grows to a
height of about 12 feet. This shrub is
particularly noted for its attractive
compound foliage and inflorescence large branched clusters of tiny white
flowers.
USES
Medicinal
Fever, inflammation, menstrual pains.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Olokun.
Medicinal
Chest
ailments,
constipation,
ailments, erysipelas, fever, pain.
SAUCO AMARILLO / YELLOW ELDER

(Tecoma stans)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
Purification
baths
to
negativity.
Other names:
Argentina - Garrocha, garanguay amarillo,
guaran-guaran
Colombia - Fresno, chirlobirlos, palo
hueso
Costa Rica - Candelillo
El Salvador - Tache, tasto, San Andres,
marchucha
Mexico - Retamo, retama, palo de arco
Panama - Copete
Puerto Rico - Sauco amarillo, roble
amarillo, ruibarba
Urugay - Garrocha
U.S. -Trumpet flower, yellow bells
eye
banish
SAUCO NEGRO / ELDERBERRY

(Sambucus nigra)
Description
Erect woody shrub, reaching up to 12 ft.
tall. The leaves are compound, bright
green. Numerous fragrant white flowers
arranged in branched clusters.
185
Dalia Quiros-Moran
vegetable. Great care must be exercised

in using this fruit, since both immature and
over mature fruits may be toxic.
USES
Medicinal
Colds, cough,
hemorrhoids.
dropsy,
fever,
flu,
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
For Babalu Aye ceremonies and rituals.
Correlating Odu: Odi Otura.
For healing rituals to treat dementia.
SENSITIVA / SENSITIVE PLANT

(Mimosa pudica)
Other names:
Cuba - Dormidera, vergonzosa, morivivi
Lukumi Eran Kumi, Eran loyo, Omimi,
Yaranimo
SIBANICU: Arabo de Piedra

SIEMPREVIVA: Prodigiosa
Description
Indigenous sub shrub with fern like leaves
that close up and droop when touched,
usually re-opening within minutes. It has
prickly stems and small, fluffy, ball shaped
pink flowers in summer. Found in moist
waste ground, in lawns, in open
plantations, and weedy thicklets.
SIGUARAYA / BASTARD LIME

(Trichilia havanensis)
Other names:
Costa Rica - Uruca
Cuba - Siguaraya, rompe camino, abre
camino, tapa camino.
El Salvador - Barre-horno
Honduras - Limoncillo
Kongo Inso, Ebora, Nsinba dian finda.
Lukumi - Atori
Mexico - Limoncillo, cucharillo, cauache,
garrapatilla
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yewa
Correlating Odu: Iwori Otrupon
Description
Robust, native tree; the leaves are intense
green above, pale green underneath. The
scented flowers are greenish/cream. The
fruit is bright green with orange/red seeds.
SESO VEGETAL / AKEE

(Blighia sapida)
Other names:
Arada - Yowele
Brazil - Castanheiro do Africa
Colombia - Huevo vegetal, bien me sabe,
pan y quesito.
Cuba - Akee de Africa, arbol del seso.
Lukumi Igi ayire
Panama - Huevo vegetal
Puerto Rico - Seso vegetal, akee
U. S. - Akee-tree, vegetable brains
USES
Medicinal
Kidney and bladder stone, rheumatism,
skin problems, urinary track ailments,
venereal diseases.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Babalu Aye and
Elegba.
Rites of Palo
To prepare Nkisi lango.
Description
Medium-sized evergreen tree. The leaves
are compound, odd-pinnately with 3 to 5
pairs of dark-green, obovate-oblong
leaflets. The fragrant flowers are small,
greenish-white. The mature fruit splits
open along 3 sutures exposing the 3
large, shiny, black seeds attached to a
white or milky-white aril. The firm and oily
aril is the edible portion and is consumed
fresh or is cooked and used as a
186
For ritual baths to expel evil spirits

and negativity.
household
Banishes any negative spell or
witchcraft
protection
SOPLILLO / WILD TAMARIND
(Lysiloma bahamensis)
Other names:
Cuba - Tamarindillo, abey, frijolillo.
Lukumi - Aki
Description
The umbrella-like profile of this large tree
is produced by horizontal branching, which
makes it an excellent shade tree. The
leaves are feathery and flat and consist of
many light green leaflets. The fruits are
flat, think, black-and-tan papery pods,
which contain eight to ten seeds. The
pods are frequently found hanging on the
tree long after they mature.
USES
Medicinal
Vaginal infections, whites.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
SUELDACONSUELDA: Bejuco Verraco
187
Dalia Quiros-Moran
U.S. - Tamarind
Description
A large beautiful evergreen tree that can
grow up to 70' in height and 21' in girth.
The trunk has cracks, down and across;
the bark is brown-gray. It has a dense and
spreading crown foliage and numerous
yellow, with red and purple filaments,
flowers. The pod contains the seeds,
black, shiny squares surrounded by pulp.
The pulp of tamarind is light brownish-red,
sweetish acidic and edible.
TABACO / TOBACCO
(Nicotiana tabacum)
Other names:
Cuba - Tabaco
Haiti - Tabak
Lukumi - Asaa
Description
Annual plant, single stemmed. The leaves
are alternate, oblong shaped. The flowers
are purplish/pink, greenish yellow inside.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Constipation, diarrhea,
scabies, skin disorders.
Medicinal
Eczema, need to vomit, spasm.
liver
ailments,
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Osayin, Elegba, Ogun, Oshosi.
Correlating Odu: Ogunda Ejionle
Rites of Palo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala, Oya
Correlating Odu: Ofun Meji, Otura Obara,
Irete Kana, Osa Okana.
TABANO / SWAMP-MALLOW
(Pavonia typhalea)
TANACETO / BITTER BUTTONS

(Tanacetum vulgare)
Other names:
Puerto Rico Anamu, Cadillo
Other names:
Brazil - Catinga de mulata
Haiti - Tanaisie, Herbe aux Vers
U.S. - Bitter buttons, ginger plant, parsley
fern, scented fern, English cost, hindheal
Description
Indigenous plant found in wetlands and
calcareous soils. The leaves are ovate,
serrate; white flowers.
Description
A coarse-growing herbaceous perennial 2
to 3 feet in height with finely divided
leaves. It has a stout, somewhat reddish,
erect stem, usually smooth; 1 1/2 to 3 feet
high, and branching near the top. The
round, flat-topped, button like, yellow
flower heads are produced in terminal
clusters from about July to September.
USES
Medicinal
Bronchitis, inflammation, kidney ailments,
rheumatism.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Obara, Otura
Ika, Irete Oshe.
USES
Medicinal
Bruise, cold, dropsy, gall, gout, hysteria,
intestinal
parasites,
nervousness,
rheumatism, sore, sprain, stomach
ailments.
TAMARINDO / TAMARIND
(Tamarindus indica)
Other names:
Arada - Awati
Cuba - Tamarindo
Haiti - Tamarin, Tanmarin s
Lukumi Igi iyagbon
188
Description
Leguminous tree found in calcareous,
mountainous areas. The foliage is thin;
yellow flowers. The wood is hard, reddish
towards the core.
TAPACAMINO / CAPPEL
(Palicourea alpina)
Other names:
Cuba - Taburete
Dominican Republic - Tafetn, cafetn,
cenizoso cimarrn
Puerto Rico Balsamillo, Cachimbo
USES
Medicinal
Skin ulcers, wounds.
Description
Medium to large shrub found in the under
story and sub canopy of most tropical
forests from low to high elevations. The
plant is glabrous; leaves elliptic, pointed at
the end; stem is green when young
changing to gray when mature. The wood
is moderately hard and brittle; flowers
tubular, grouped in cymes, ranging from
yellow to orange. The seeds are black or
grayish.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Eshu
Rites of Palo
To attract harmony.
TIBISI / OLD MAN'S BEARD
(Arthrostylidium capillifolium)
USES
Medicinal
Asthma, circulatory problems, stomach
ailments, water retention.
Description
Bamboo, very abundant in forests, mainly
in mountainous areas, near streams and
wetlands, ascending to 8 feet and looping
downward from tree branches or crotches.
Leaf blades broad, rolled in bud.
TARRILLO: Arbol del Cuerno

TEBENQUE / DONKEYWEED
(Pectis ciliaris)
Other names:
Cuba
Romero
chinchera.
cimarron,
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango
Makes the person noticeable.
yerba
Description
Annual plant found in sandy beaches and
calcareous soils. The leaves and flowers
are aromatic. Yellow flowers.
TIBISI CHICO: Canutillo

TILO / LINDEN
(Justicia pectoralis)
USES
TENGUE ACEITERO
(Poepigia procera)
Other names:
Brazil - Chamb
Cuba - Tilo casero, criollo, de jardn,
natural.
Haiti - Spantye, Zb-a-Shapantye,
Carmentin.
U.S. - Freshcut
Other names:
Cuba - Tengue, Palo tengue, Abey
hembra.
Kongo Inkita, Linga, Nkuni
Lukumi Songa, Labari
Mexico - Quiebrahacha, bicho.
Description
Herb with slender, grooved stems; erect,
climbing or trailing and rooting at the
nodes. Aromatic; the fresh plant has a
balsamic odor. Leaves opposite, narrow to
broad lanceolate. The flowers are lilac or
Medicinal
Chest ailments, intestinal
menstrual problems.
complaints,
189
Dalia Quiros-Moran
pink, the throat sometimes dotted with

dark purple, the outer surface downy.
TOMATE DE MAR
(Ipomoea pterodes)
Other names:
Brazil - Batata-de-purga
Cuba - Almorrana.
Kongo Korogondo diKalunga
Lukumi Ikan Olokun
USES
Medicinal
Asthma, bronchitis, chest, cold, cough,
fever, flu, nausea, scabies, stomachache,
wound.
Description
Woody, creeping annual plant.
TITONIA / MEXICAN SUNFLOWER

(Tithonia rotundifolia)
USES
Other names:
Cuba - Margaritona
Kongo Monikuana
Lukumi - Sereiye
Medicinal
Fever, hemorrhoids, inflammation, toxins
in the blood.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Description
Tall, bushy, ornamental plant. Foliage is
dark green, large leaf, rough. Grows 36" to
42" tall.
TOMATILLO DE LA HABANA: Aj de la
China.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
Ground to powder,
unwanted visitors.
TORONJA / GRAPEFRUIT
(Citrus grandis)
to
expel
Other names:
Haiti - Chadk
U.S. - Pommelo.
TOMATE / TOMATO
(Leyopersicum esculentum)
Description
Tree similar to the orange tree. The leaves
are large. The fruit is a large orange,
yellow producing a considerable amount
of bitter acrid juice.
Other names:
Kongo Korogondo
Lukumi Ishoma, Ikan
USES
Description
Annual herb, strong-scented; leaves
alternate, simple but deeply pinnately
lobed and toothed; flowers 5-parted,
yellow; fruit a red or yellow berry.
Medicinal
Excessive body fat, high blood pressure.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
USES
Medicinal
Burns,
constipation,
toothache.
hemorrhoids,
TORONGIL / BERGAMONT MINT

(Mentha citrata)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Ibeji.
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Irete, Irete
Trupon.
Other names:
Argentina - Bergamota
Lukumi - Ewetuni
Puerto Rico - Agua florida
190
Description
Very pleasant, aromatic, lemon-like odor,
somewhat resembling that of the
Bergamot Orange. The whole plant is
smooth, dotted with yellow glands and is
of a dark green color, generally tinged with
purple, especially the margins of the
leaves, which are finely toothed.
Description
A vigorous growing weedy vine growing to
1 ft. in height. It has a large root system
and produces yellow and white flowers. It
is found in abundance along roadsides
and in the forests on dry sandy soils.
USES
Medicinal
Asthma, anemia, convulsions, cystitis,
gallbladder pain and stones, gonorrhea,
internal inflammation, liver disorders,
jaundice, hepatitis, slow milk production in
lactating women, urinary tract and renal
disorders and calculi, worms from the skin.
USES
Medicinal
Anxiety, digestive complaints, intestinal
discomfort, vomiting.
Religious/Magical
Rites of Palo

of the household to attract good
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
ritual omiero.
Belongs to Shango
Correlating Odu: Odi Meji, Iwori Ojuani,
Odi Iroso, Iroso Ika, Ofun Ogbe, and Osa
Okana.
TORONJIL DE MENTA / PEPPERMINT

(Menta piperita)
Other names:
U.S. - Brady mint, balm mint, curled mint,
lamb mint
TRAVESERA / BITTERBUSH
Description
Herb that grows to 2 feet tall and spikes of
lilac-pink flowers are produced in midsummer. Stems are usually purple and
leaves can also be purple-tinged.
Other names:
Cuba - Albahaca de sabana, albahaquilla,
filigrana, rompezaragey de sabana,
tribulillo y zanca de grullo.
Lukumi - Afosi
USES
Description
Aromatic perennial that reaches 2 to 4 feet
high, and grows in partial sun. prefers
damp to moist rich soils.
Medicinal
Anxiety, colds, colic, fevers, flatulence,
headaches associated with digestion,
influenza,
inflammations,
itching,
menstrual problems, nasal catarrh,
nausea and vomiting of pregnancy and
travel sickness, ulcers of the bowels, sore
throat, tension, toothache.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Shango.
To force an enemy to fail
TOSTON / TAR VINE

(Boerhaavia erecta)
TREBOL / WHITE CLOVER

(Trifoluim repens)
Other names:
Brazil - Erva Tosto
U.S. Erect spiderling
Lukumi - Atipola
Other names:
Kongo Kanda tatu
Lukumi Ewe etameri
U.S. - White shamrock, shamrock
191
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Description
Creeping plant that spreads in large mats
across the ground; the leaves are
compound, with tree broad leaflets and
tiny teeth on edges, a pale triangular mark
appears on each leaflet; abundant, long
lasting, sweet smelling flowers, white or
very pale pink, on separate stalks from
leaves.
Description
Indigenous shrub with globose leaves.
Flower color greenish white. Flowers
October through November. Frequently
occurs in plains, rarely occurs in uplands
and hilly areas.
USES
Medicinal
Acne, constipation, dropsy,
inflammation, need to vomit.
USES
Medicinal
Anemia, blood toxins, boils, scrofula, skin
diseases, sores, ulcers.
intestinal
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala, Yemaya.
Correlating Odu: Okana Meji, Okana
Otura, and Iwori Otrupon.
To craft religious relics.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
Correlating Odu: Otura Meji.
TREBOLILLO: Abrecamino
TUBEROSA: Azucena
TUBEROSA AZUL: Agapanto
TREPADERA
USES
TUNA / SPURGE
(Euphorbia lactea)
Religious/Magical
Orisha worship
Belongs to Odudua, Obatala and Oshun.
Other names:
Lukumi Egun, weggun, ikikigun
Description
Succulent, spiny shrub with milky latex,
branches mottled green with white lines.
TRIPA DE JUTIA
USES
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba
Medicinal
Eczema, inflammations.
TUA TUA / BELLY ACHE BUSH

(Jatropha gossiifolia)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
Planted outside the house

protection
Other names:
Brazil - Pinho roxo
Colombia - Frailejn, purga de fraile,
frailecillo
Cuba - San Juan del cobre, frailecillo
Dominican Republic - Tua ta, frailecillo
Haiti - Medsinyen barachn'n, Mdecinier
Barachen,
Mdecinier
Barrire,
Mdecinier Blanc, Mdecinier Purgatif,
Pignon d'Inde
Puerto Rico - Higuereta cimarrona
Venezuela - Tua ta, frailecillo
TUNA DE CRUZ: Cardn.

TUYA: Arbol de la Vida.
192
for
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ika Irete.
U
UA DE GATO / IGUANA HACKBERRY
(Momisia iguanaea)
UVA GOMOSA / CLAMMY-CHERRY

(Cordia Alba)
Other names:
Colombia Dinde
Cuba Manca montero, ua de gavilan
Jamaica Cat's Claw, black bra, breaand-cheeses
Puerto Rico Rolon, escambron Colorado
Venezuela Espinuelo, guichere
Other names:
Colombia Gomo Blanco, caujaro, uvito
Costa Rica Jigilote
Cuba Ateje Amarillo. Varia blanca, uvita
Dominican Republic Yagua blanca,
mueco blanco
El Salvador Cebito, tigilote
Haiti Chique
Honduras Chachalaco
Jamaica Dope cherry-duppy cherry
Mexico Zazamil, sasamil, gualbere,
chirimo
Panama Uvero, uvillo, goma
Puerto Rico Cereza blanca, capa blanca
U.S. White Manjack, Loblolly-tree
Venezuela Cuajaro, cariaco, tarare
amarillo, tarare blanco, flor de angel.
Description
Native perennial vine. The fruit is green,
yellow when mature.
USES
Medicinal
Fevers, liver ailments, wounds.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Iwori Ofun
It has malefic properties.
Description
Tree with leathery foliage. The leaves are
simple, alternate; flowers white cream
color.
UVA CALETA / SEA GRAPE

(Coccoloba uvifera)
Other names:
Costa Rica- Papaturro, Uvero de Playa
Cuba Uvero
Dominican Republic Uvillo
Haiti - Raisin b'd-m, kino
Mexico Uva de Playa, Uva de la mar,
Uva Manzano
Panama Uvero de Playa
USES
Medicinal
Chest, stomachaches, stomach ailments.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ika Irete.
Description
Common beach plant. Usually forms a low
shrub but may be a spreading tree 30 to
35 feet in height. It does well in areas of
high salt and poor soil. The leaves are
stiff, large and round with prominent,
reddish veins; the fruit is grape sized, with
woody, purple skin covering a thin purple
flesh crowning a large seed. They are
borne on stalks and ripen individually,
falling off easily when picked.
USES
Medicinal
Diarrhea, dysentery,
diseases.
fever,
venereal
193
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
To pack love amulets
VACAHUEY / SANDPAPER TREE

(Curatella americana)
Other names:
Colombia - Paralejo, chaparro
Costa Rica - Chumico de palo, hoja
chige, raspa guacal
Cuba - Careicillo, peralejo macho.
Panama - Chumico palo, curatela,
chumico.
Venezuela, Guatemala, Honduras Chaparro
VALERIANA / VALERIAN
(Valeriana paniculata)
Description
A tall perennial plant with clusters of pink
or white flowers. Grows to 4-5 feet.
Leaves strongly divided, pinnate with
lance-shaped leaflets; lower ones toothed.
Tiny, pale pink to whitish, tubular flowers,
grow in three-forked terminal heads in
tight clusters; when the fruits form, the
calyces turn into feathery parachutes.
Blooms June to July.
Description
Woody plant found in sandy savannahs.
The
leaves
are
elliptical,
rough,
corrugated; flowers in racemes, white, with
a peculiar odor.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Chronic skin diseases, colic, convulsions,
croup, delirium, depression, diarrhea,
emotional stress, epilepsy, expelling
phlegm from throat and chest, fatigue,
fevers, gas, gas pains, hypochondria,
hysteria, insomnia, irritability, intestinal
parasites and worms, menstrual cramps,
migraine headaches, mild spasmodic
affections, muscle cramps, nervous
cough, nervous headaches, neuralgia,
palpitations, panic attacks, pimples,
shortness of breath and wheezing,
spasms, sores, stomach cramps, vertigo.
Medicinal
Bruises, ulcers, wounds.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango
VAINILLA AMARILLA
(Epidendrum facutum)
Description
Indigenous orchid.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Odi
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
To pack amulets
VARITA DE SAN JOSE / HOLYHOCK

(Althea rosea)
VAINILLA ROSADA
(Epidendrum atropurpureum)
Other names:
Lukumi - Ofun dara
Description
Orchid common in rather dry, scrubby
forests of coastal regions. The plants are
relatively compact, branching freely to
produce clumps of rounded bulbs. Upright,
often branching spikes with showy blooms
in green, brown, orange, yellow, or pink
that expels a delightful, intoxicating rose
fragrance.
Description
Cultivated biennial commonly used as
ornamental. Erect stem, variegated
leaves, hear shaped. Spikes of large
showy flowers.
194
USES
Medicinal
Coughs, irritated stomach,
bladder, and urethra.
Description
A weedy annual and sometimes perennial
herb growing to the height of 3 ft. It has
pretty reddish-purple flowers growing
along long bracts and is indigenous to
most parts of tropical America.
bowels,
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
Correlating Odu: Oshe Osa
For ritual cleansings.
USES
Medicinal
Constipation, chronic, diabetes, fevers,
diarrhea, dyspepsia, dysentery, fevers,
intestinal worms and other parasites, liver
problems, poor perspiration, poor supply
of mother's milk, rheumatic inflammations,
urinary complaints.
VENCEDOR / SATIN WOOD

(Zanthoxylum arboreum)
Other names:
Arada Xuntitina
Cuba Palo vencedor, balsamo
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya.
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Irete, Irete
Otrupon, Ika Odi.
In amulets to attract and for good

fortune
Description
A deciduous shrub growing to 12 ft. Found
on upland rocky hillsides and on moist
low-lying sites, in open woods, on bluffs or
in thickets. It is in flower from May to June,
and the seeds ripen from September to
October. The scented flowers are purple.
VERDOLAGA / PURSLANE
(Portulaca oleracea)
USES
Other names:
Cuba - Verdolaga, verdolaga francesa.
Lukumi Ewe oshisha
U.S. - Cuban spinach, Miner's-lettuce,
Miner's-salad, Pigweed, Pussley, Winter
purslane
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Okana Odi, Oshe Odi.
For amulets and relics
Rites of Palo

To banish negativity and evil spirits.

prosperity.
In amulets to overcome difficult

situations and for protection.
Description
A common, persistent, trailing weed with
fleshy, succulent stems, widely distributed;
leaves are small, spatulate or narrow
obovate, thick and green or red in color. It
can be found growing wild in almost any
unshaded area, including flower beds,
cornfields, and waste places.
USES
VENCEBATALLA: Bejuco Carabal
Medicinal
Boils,
dysentery,
sores,
vaginal
discharges, venomous bites and stings
and urinary tract infections.
VERBENA / PORTERWEED
(Stachytarpheta jamaicensis)
Other names:
Lukumi Ewe Orukan
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba and Yemaya.
195
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
For purification baths; to attract good
fortune.

ritual omiero.
Correlating Odu: Oshe Iroso, Odi Obara,
Otrupon Irete, Otura Oshe, Irete Untelu,
Irete Ogunda, Oshe Iroso.
Used to appease Yemaya.
To make Oshinshin
Rites of Palo
For purification and cleansing of

persons, objects and the household.
Other
Insect and vermin repellent.
VIBORA / MOTHER OF THOUSANDS
(Bryophyllum calycinum)
Other names:
Brazil Coirama, Courama, Folha da
Costa, Folha da fortuna
Lukumi Ewe Nioka, Fatu-Fatu
U.S. - Orpine, Kurz, Life plant, live leaf
VERGAJO: Bejuco Vergajo

VERGAJO DE TORO: Bejuco vergajo.
VERGONZOSA / SENSITIVE PLANT
(Mimosa pudica)
Other names:
Cuba -Vergonzosa, dormidera, morivivi,
sensitiva.
Description
Plant that produces foliar embryos in the
notches of the leaf margin. These
embryos remain dormant while the leaf is
attached to the plant. The leaves and
stems are green and fleshy and are
covered with a shiny layer of wax.
USES
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ika Oshe.
Medicinal
Abscesses, burns, diarrhea fever, poorly
healing wounds ulcers.
Religious/Magical:
Orisha worship
Belongs to Eshu
For mischievous spells.

negative properties.
VETE DE AQUI: Aguinaldo Morado

VETIVER/CUS-CUS GRASS
(Anatherum Zizaniodes)
It
has
VICARIA / GREATER (ROSY)

PERIWINKLE
(Vinca rosea)
Other names:
Lukumi Orufiri, Kurubi
Puerto Rico Pachuli, Pacholi
Other names:
Cuba - Vicaria, dominica.
El Salvador - Chula, mulata
Philippines - Chichirica
Mexico - Maravilla de Espaa
Puerto Rico - Flor de todo el ao.
U.S. - Vinca, Old Maid, Red periwinkle
West Indies - Vinca, Old maid, red
periwinkle
Description
Cultivated grass; tall and robust,
somewhat similar to guinea grass. The
roots are scented; produces an oil highly
esteemed in the perfume industry.
USES
Medicinal
Acne, Asthma, calluses, flu, malaria,
muscular pains, neuralgia, rheumatism,
wounds.
Description
A semi-procumbent shrub with trailing
ascending stems 1-3 feet long. The leaves
are dark green. It has solitary flowers at
the
196
end of the stem. This ornamental plant is

fast growing and flowers all year long.
small groups, are very characteristic. The

mature plant has creeping stems
emerging from a slender taproot. The
stems root at the nodes and invade larger
areas. When seeds mature, pods open
explosively, often spreading seeds 10 feet
or more.
USES
Medicinal
Bleeding gums, colitis, diarrhea, digestive
problems, excessive menstrual flow, fever,
mouth ulcers, nosebleed, sore throats,
urinary ailments.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Iwori Irete, Osa Eyioko,
Ika Yeku.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
Correlating Odu: Irete Odi.
VIGUETA
(Chiones cubensis)
VIOLETA/VIOLET
(Viola odorata)
Other names:
Cuba - Vigueta, Icaquillo y Vigueta
Naranjo.
Kongo Forumbo
Other names:
Lukumi - Luko
Description
An evergreen perennial woodland plant
growing about 6 inches tall and forming a
carpet of growth. The leaves are small,
they have a very mild, almost bland flavor;
the texture is slightly tough. The edible
leaves can be harvested all year round,
and the edible flowers are produced in late
winter and early spring.
Description
Indigenous tree that grows up to 50 ft.
high. Found in acid soil forests. Wood
cream white color. The leaves are
elliptical, rounded at the apex; white
flowers; fruit glossy.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Paludism.
Medicinal
Indigestion, gastric upsets, heart debility,
burns, pains, cough, catarrh, bronchitis,
sore throat, toxins in the system, phlegm,
need to sweat.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya
VIGUETA BLANCA: Caobilla de Sabana

VINAGRILLO / YELLOW WOOD
SORREL
(Oxalis corniculata)
VIUDA: Ambarina
VOMITEL / GIEGER TREE
(Cordia sebestena)
Other names:
Cuba Mariposa, Trebol, Violeta
Americana
Puerto Rico Quita tinta, Vinagrillo
Venezuela Pata de Pichon
Other names:
Colombia - San Joaquin
Costa Rica - Siricote
Cuba - Anacagita, vomitel colorado,
cutiper, platanillo.
Dominican Republic - Avellano criollo
Jamaica - Red cordia, scarlet cordia
Mexico - Anacahuita, siricote
Description
A perennial that has alternate, compound
leaves, each consisting of three heartshaped
leaflets
resembling
clover.
Attractive yellow flowers, borne singly or in
197
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Puerto Rico - Vomitel colorado

Venezuela - Joaquin, No me olvides
Description
An evergreen flowering tree up to 25 ft.
high. Grows in high, dry coastal areas. In
bloom all year. Leaves green, simple.
Flowers orange. Fruit in white drupes,
aromatic and edible.
USES
Medicinal
Breathing difficulties of all kinds, catarrh,
dysentery, urinary incontinence, edema,
malaria, venereal disease, headache,
bandages,
spider
bite,
stimulating
appetite.
198
Correlating Odu: Ika Trupon, Odi Ika,

Obara Ika.
Not used for ritual omiero.
Rites of Palo
Placed in the household to expel evil eye
and negativity.
Y
YABA / CABBAGE BARK TREE
(Andira jamaicensis)
Other names:
Cuba - Yaba, yabo, yaba colorada, moca.
Guatemala, Honduras Guacamayo
Kongo Nkasa Kadiampemba
Lukumi Ewe Soiku
Mexico - Yabo, yaba
Puerto Rico - Moca, moca blanca
YAGRUMA MACHO: Arriero

YAGUNA / BRASILIAN SATINTAIL
(Imperata brasiliensis)
Description
Tree found in arid and calcareous soils.
Grows up to 50 ft. high. The leaves are
large; purple flowers; wood reddish,
strong, and compact.
Other names:
Brazil Capim Sape
U.S. Cogon grass.
Description
Bright chartreuse green perennial grass
that grows 2-4' tall and forms dense
stands. The erect leaf blades are about a
half-inch wide and have a prominent
whitish off-center midrib and a sharp tip.
The leaves are flat and have saw-like
edges. The round leaf bases are sheathed
and attached to short round stems. The
upper part of the leaf blade is hairy near
the base, but the underside is smooth.
The flowers are borne in silky white
spikes. Found in swamps, floodplains, dry
scrubs, and sand dunes, as well as the
sand hills, roadsides, pastures, utility
rights-of-way, and mined lands where it is
most commonly observed.
USES
Medicinal
Works as an antidote to "Guao"
Religious/Magical:
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango.

YAGRUMA / TRUMPET TREE
(Cecropia peltata)
Other names:
Argentina - Ambahu
Brazil - Imbauba
Colombia - Guarumo
Cuba - Yagruma hembra
Kongo - Matiti
Lukumi - Ona Biri
Mexico - Guarumo
Peru - Cetico, Tacuna
USES
Medicinal
Jaundice
Description
Tree to 60 ft. high with a lifespan of 20-30
years. It has large leaves, a small crown,
and large peltate leaves 12 to 20 inches in
diameter, with silver-white lower surfaces.
YAMAGUEY DE COSTA: Agalla de

Costa
USES
Other names:
Cuba Yamagua
Kongo Nkita, Morinbankuo
Lukumi - Fendebillo
U.S. - Cocillana Bark
YAMAO / AMERICAN MUSK

(Guarea Trichiliodes)
Medicinal
Asthma, cold, corns, cough, herpes, warts.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala and Oya.
199
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Description
A large tree; flowers in clusters; bark ashy
gray; the inner bark is generally thicker
than the outer; fracture, coarse fibrous
splinters; odor musk like; taste distinctive,
astringent and nauseous; leaves pinnate
and of peculiar growth, as the lower
leaflets fall young ones grow at the end of
the same leaf-stalk, which elongates, the
lower outer portion becomes woody with
an outer bark and a thin pith inside and
grows into a branch.
USES
Medicinal
Anemia, catarrh, conjunctivitis, diabetes,
diarrhea, epilepsy, fever, gonorrhea,
headache, hemorrhage, prickly heat,
swellings, and syphilis.
YAREY/ CANA PALM
(Corpernicia hospita)
Other names:
Kongo Goroguayo, mabba, diba
Lukumi - Ope
US - Cuban Wax Palm, Guano Palm,
Cano Palm
USES
Medicinal
Bronchitis, intestinal bleeding, pulmonary
complaints.
Description
Palm tree of moderate dimensions. The
circular gray waxy leaves spread out like
fans on long, thin stems. Up to 40 leaves
form a circular outline around the top of
the trunk. The smooth columnar trunk can
grow up to 1' in diameter and up to 26' tall.
The flowers extend past the leaves on
uniquely hairy branches. The fruits
resemble black marbles, up to 1 inch
across. Found in open savannas,
woodlands and in coastal regions,
adjacent to mangrove swamps.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Oshun, Yemaya.
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Ogbe.
Rites of Palo
To attract something or somebody.

prosperity
USES
YANA / BOTTONWOOD
(Conocarpus erecta)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango
Correlating Odu: Otura Iroso.
The ground bark to avoid captivity.
Other names:
Colombia - Saragoza
Costa Rica - Mariquito
Cuba - Mangle botn
Panama - Saragoza, mangle piuelo,
mangle torcido
Puerto Rico - Mangle botoncillo, mangle
colorado
Venezuela - Mangle botoncillo
U.S. Silver buttonwood, button
mangrove
YAYA / BLACK LANCEWOOD

(Oxandra lanceolata)
Other names:
Cuba - Yaya prieta, yaya boba macho.
Haiti - Bois de lance
Jamaica - Black lancewood, lancewood
Kongo Koromeni, Mbekese
Lukumi Yaya, Echi
Puerto Rico - Haya blanca
Description
Evergreen tree reaching heights of 32 to
45 feet. Found in close proximity to the
ocean or intercoastal areas. The leaves
are silver blue-gray; alternate, elliptic. In
bloom during the spring, with small green
flowers.
Description
Slender forest trees up to 50 ft in height;
the bark is smooth, wood hard, cream
color. The leaves are smooth, glossy. The
fruit is red.
200
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
Ogunda
Medicinal
Tetanus, ulcers and hard to heal wounds.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango, Elegba
Correlating Odu: Osa Irete, Iroso Ogunda,
Iroso Otura.
Rites of Palo
Essential for the Nganga
YERBA ANIS/SPANISH TARRAGON

(Tagetes lucida)
Description
Erect bushy shrub; grows from 2-3 feet.
The leaves are glabrous, serrulate,
contain essential oils similar to the French
Tarragon. Produces brilliant deep yellow,
five pedaled blossoms.
YAYA CIMARRONA
(Mouriri acuta)
Other names:
Cuba - Yaya macho.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya
Description
Indigenous trees found in low areas and
hillsides. The trunk is smooth, the leaves
obovate-oblong, pointed, glossy; the
flowers are small, yellowish. The wood is
very hard, compact, and brown.
YERBA BRUJA / JUNGLE RICE

(Panicum numidianum)
Other names:
Cuba - Yerba de par.
Lukumi Ewe Ichocho
U.S. - Jungle rice grass, Millet-rice, Corn
panic grass, Deccan grass.
USES
Medicinal
Dysentery, gangrene, hemorrhage, skin
ulcers and wounds.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango
Rites of Palo
Essential for the Nganga.
Description
Annual grass most frequently found on
disturbed sites such as fields and gardens.
The leaves are elongated and very
narrow, smooth or sometimes sparsely
hairy on the upper surface, smooth on the
lower surface; flowers borne in spikelets,
the spikelets crowded into 4 rows on one
side of the axis of the spike; each spike up
to 1 1/2 inches long, with several spikes
forming a narrow panicle.
YEDRA / MADIERA VINE

(Boussingaultia leptostachye)
Other names:
Cuba - Yedra del pas.
Lukumi - Itako
Description
Vine found in wet soils. The roots are
tuberose with smooth leaves and stems.
The leaves are ovate; flowers white,
scented, in racemes.
USES
Medicinal
Hemorrhage, rheumatism, warts.
201
Dalia Quiros-Moran
USES
Description
Large grass that can grow to cover
extensive areas along ditches and into
fields. It also occurs in marginal wetlands.
Stems erect, to 8 ft. tall; leaf blades long,
flat, midrib white, to 2 ft. long, to 3/4 in.
wide, folded at the base, margins finely
rough; inflorescence very large, to 20 in.
long, widely spreading, branched, jointed
axis; spikelets in pairs at the nodes of the
axis, half are on stalks, all are hairy.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya and Elegba.

YERBA CAIMAN / BISTORT
(Polygonum bistorta)
Other names:
Cuba - Yerba del sapo.
Kongo Nseke gando, bamba
Lukumi - Ewedo
U.S. - Knotweed
USES
Medicinal:
Kidney stones.
Description
Perennial plant reaching 1 to 2 ft. Grows in
damp meadows and by water, especially
on acid soils. It has swollen nodes where
the leaves meet the stems. Leaves are
lance-shaped, narrow, and willow-like. The
leaf bases form sheaths that surround the
stem. Leaves are alternately attached.
The flowers are small and pinkish or white,
and grow in terminal spikes that typically
are several inches long. It is in flower from
June to September, and the seeds ripen
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Okana Ojuani.
YERBA DE GARRO / SLENDER FALSE
BOTTONWEED
(Spermacoce tenuior)
Other names:
Cuba -Yerba de Garro, garro morado,
garro blanco.
Dominican Republic Juana la Blanca
Couper colonne
USES
Description
Perennial, erect or ascending herb. Stems
are glabrous, slightly ribbed. Leaf blade
elliptic-ovate, acute, glabrous. Flowers
clustered in terminal and axillary groups,
corolla white or lobes tipped with pink.
Capsules obovoid, split lengthwise. Seeds
brown, oblong-ellipsoid. Common weed in
disturbed areas, orchards, sunny and
dried localities.
Medicinal
Anal fissure, burns, catarrh, cholera,
cystitis, diarrhea, dysentery, excessive
menstruation, internal and external
bleeding, mouth ulcers, sore throats,
spongy gums, vaginal discharge, wounds.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya, Oshun.
An infusion sprinkled around the

household to banish negative
energies and evil spirits.
USES
Medicinal
Elephantiasis.
YERBA DE DON CARLOS / JOHNSON

GRASS
(Sorghum halepense)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Obara Iwori.
Other names:
Cuba -,Yerba mala, cauela.
Haiti - Pitimi
YERBA DE
Morado
202
GUANAJAY:
Aguinaldo
YERBA DE GUINEA / GUINEAGRASS

(Panicum maximum)
YERBA DE SANTA BARBARA: Ruda
Other names:
Cuba - Guinea gigante.
Haiti - Zb-Guinen, Herbe de Guine
Kongo Vititi, Mariare, Maoma, Boolongo
Lukumi Okoeran-eranguini, edi edi
U.S. Panic grass, Hamilgrass
YERBA DE SAPO / DAY FLOWER

(Commelina elegans, viginica,
longicaulis)
Other names:
Cuba - Canutillo, caamazo dulce, pitilla,
pito de bejuco, tibisi chico.
Kongo Nfita okampembe
Lukumi Ewe polo, Okuale
Description
Tufted perennial grass, usually in large
bunches from short stout rhizomes, 3 to 9
ft. tall; culms erect, stout; leaves flat, bright
green, glabrous on margins; spikelets
green or tinged with purple, with 2 seeds;
mature upper seed white.
Description
Plants found in wetlands, streams and
riversides. The leaves are pointed; white
flowers in spikes.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Chicken pops, erysipelas, measles, skin
rashes.
Medicinal
Herpes, skin problems.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to all female Orishas.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
YERBA DE LA NIA / GAIL OF WIND

(Phyllantus niruri)
YERBA DE LA PLATA / SHINY BUSH

(Peperomia pellucida)
Other names:
Cuba - Yerba de la plata, Corazon de
Paloma.
Haiti - Zb-Kours, Salade Soldat
Lukumi Ewe sadaka
Puerto Rico Yerba Pelu
U.S. - Pepper elder, man-to-man, rat-ear.
Other names:
Bahamas Hurricane Weed
Brazil - Quebra pedra
Colombia Viernes Santo
Haiti - Dy-do
Lukumi Ewe nene
Puerto Rico Peronilla de Pasto
Description
Common annual weed. The leaves are
shiny light green and it has very small
flowers. Favors shady and damp soils.
The fruits are very small, round to oblong,
first green later black. Shiny bush has a
mustard like odor.
Description
A small erect annual herb growing up to
12 to 24 inches in height, growing and
spreading freely much like a weed.
Blooms with many yellow flowers.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Bronchitis, constipation, diabetes, fever,
gall bladder, hepatitis, hypertension,
kidney stones, poor appetite, typhoid
fever, urinary afflictions.
Medicinal
Cold, cough, diarrhea, eye inflammation,
fever, headache, high blood pressure,
kidney and prostrate problems.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Obatala
203
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Eyioko Ogunda.
For purification baths and cleansings.
USES
Medicinal
Diarrhea, intestinal problems, liver and
kidney ailments.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun, Ogun, Babalu Aye,
Inle, and Elegba.
YERBA DE LA PASCUA
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship Belongs to Oya
YERBA DE LIMON / LEMON GRASS

(Cymbopogon citratrus)
YERBA DE LA SANGRE /
BLOODBERRY
(Cordia globosa)
Other names:
Brazil - Capim santo
Cuba - Yerba de limon, caa de limon,
cauela, hierba santa, yerba de calentura.
Haiti - Sitwonnl, Zb Citronnelle
Other names:
Cuba - Mierda de gallina, papita.
El Salvador Cuajatinta, Zompopo
Lukumi Ewe eje
Puerto Rico Copillo, Saraguaso prieto
U.S. Curacao weed
Description
An aromatic tropical grass with clumped,
bulbous stems that ultimately become leaf
blades Lemon grass is in the same grass
family as citronella and palmarosa; it has a
lemon flavor. It has a branched cluster of
stalked flowers and grows in clumps up to
6' high; when crushed the fragrance
resembles the scent of lemon.
Description
Small shrub found near high coastal
areas. The leaves are alternate,
lanceolate, serrate; flowers white, small,
cup shaped; fruit small, red.
USES
USES
Medicinal
Colds, chest congestion, menstrual
cramps, skin eruptions, leprosy.
Medicinal:
Catarrh, headaches.
YERBA DE SAN MARTIN/ ST. MARTIN
HERB
(Sauvagesia erecta)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Yemaya and Oshun.
Other names:
Cuba- Ipecacuana de Mejico, violeta
silvestre.
YERBA DE LA VIEJA / CLUSTERED

YELLOWTOPS
(Flaveria trinervia)
Other names:
Cuba Contra yerba
Kongo - Kiamboba
Lukumi Ewe Agba
Description
Herb-shrub. Flower with 5 pink petals,
stamens red. Fruit, a dry capsule, seeds
reticulate.
Description
Grass found in dry coastal areas or near
them.
USES
Medicinal
Diarrhea, digestive complaints, urinary
204
track ailments.
USES
YERBA DEL PARAL: Parana
Medicinal
Calculus, cancer, convulsions, cough,
cramps,
cystitis,
diarrhea,
dropsy,
dysentery,
epilepsy,
headache,
hemorrhage,
hypertension,
hysteria,
insanity, kidneys, measles, rubella,
snakebite,
sores,
stones,
tumors,
urogenital disorders, warts, and wounds
YERBA DIEZ DEL DIA / PINK

PURSLANE
(portulaca pilosa)
Other names:
Brazil - Amor crescdo
Cuba - Diez del da, diez de la maana,
salta perico.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
ritual omiero.
Belongs to Elegba and Olokun.
Ritual baths to banish negativity.
Rites of Palo
Description
A perennial, succulent herb with a fleshy
taproot. The stems are prostate and up to
12 inches long. The small leaves are
linear to oblong and pale grayish green.
There are usually 3 to 6 flowers in small
bunches at the ends of the branches. The
flowers are white or pink.
YERBA HEDIONDA / SICKLEPOD

(Cassia occidentalis)
USES
Medicinal
Typhoid fever and other types of fevers.
Other names:
Brazil - Fedegoso
Colombia -Hierba de la potra, hierba de
gallinazo, altera, furrusca, comida de
murcielago,
chilinchile, busca.
Costa Rica - Pico de pajaro
Cuba -Hedionda, Hierba hedionda,
martinica, brusca
El Salvador - Frijolillo
Lukumi Arajara, Ewe Tomode
Mexico - Hediondillo, mezquitillo
Nicaragua -Frijolillo, pico de pjaro
Panama Frijolillo
Puerto Rico Caf negro
U.S. - Wild senna, Locust Plant
Venezuela Brusca
Religious/ Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba, Ogun, Yemaya.
Correlating Odu: Otrupon Di, Otura Ofun.

YERBA FINA / BERMUDA GRASS
(Cynodon dactylon)
Other names:
Cuba - Grea, Yerba de la Bermuda,
Bahama, Yerba del prado.
Lukumi - Ewe boro
U.S. - Wiregrass, couch grass, and devil
grass
Description
Herb or under-shrub. Flower color yellow.
In flower July through August. In fruit
September through October. Frequently
occurs in plains, rarely occurs in uplands
and in hilly areas.
Description
A long-lived perennial that propagates by
runners, underground rootstocks and
seed. Runners may reach many feet in
length. The flowering branches reach only
6 to 12 inches high. The leaves are up to
4 inches long, flat, and somewhat hairy at
the base. Plants are sometimes grown as
a cover for warm sunny banks and are
sometimes used for lawns.
USES
Medicinal
Anemia,
asthma,
bronchitis,
colic,
constipation, dropsy, earaches, fevers,
205
Dalia Quiros-Moran
gonorrhea, intestinal worms and parasite,

liver
complaints,
rheumatism,
skin
disorders, urinary track disorders, wounds,
yellow fever.
YERBA LECHOSA / ASTHMA WEED

(Euphorbia hirta)
Other names:
Brazil - Erva de Santa Luzia
Cuba - Yerba lechera Teta de vieja.
Haiti - Malon'nen, Zb malnomen,
Malnomen, Pilulye
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango and Elegba
Description
Annual erect or ascending herbs with
copious crisped hairs. The leaves are
opposite, elliptic, oblong acute toothed or
serrated; seeds pale brown, oblong,
acutely angled. Found in waste places
and cultivated fields.
YERBA INCIENCIO DE GUINEA

USES
Medicinal
Colic.
USES
Religious/Magical
To get someone out from jail.
Medicinal
Asthma, bronchitis, dysentery, intestinal
parasites, skin conditions, syphilis, warts
YERBA JICOTEA
Other names:
Kongo Moforoyo
Lukumi Okonyanigbo, ewe ayapa
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Correlating Odu: Ojuani Oshe, Obara
Iroso.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango
YERBA LUISA / LEMON VERBENA

(Aloysia triphylla)
YERBA JURUBANA / BROWNTOP

PANICUM
(Panicum fasciculatum)
Other names:
Colombia - Cidron
Haiti Diapalma
Mexico - Cedrn
Other names:
Cuba - Yerba jurubana, surbana.
Description
A deciduous shrub growing to 3m by 3m
at a medium rate. It is in leaf from May to
November, in flower in August, and the
seeds ripen from September to October.
Found in fields and roadsides. The leaves
are aromatic, strong lemon-scented.
Description
A tall annual, erect or spreading, and
branching from the lower stem joints, 1 to
nearly 4 feet high, The leaves are thinly
hairy or hairless, the flowering part is
short, with erect to slightly spreading spine
like branches. The spikelets are green
when young, and yellow or bronze when
ripe, hairless, and minutely cross-ridged.
The grain is dull, also minutely crossridged with a blunt tip. Found in sandy
washes, river bottoms and waste places.
USES
Medicinal
Abdominal discomfort, acne, boils, cysts,
depression, digestive complaints, fever,
flatulence, indigestion, nervousness.
USES
Medicinal:
Female infertility
206
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun.
Correlating Odu: Okana Meji.
USES
Medicinal
Angina, sore throat, colic, stomach
complaints,
vaginal
infections,
hemorrhoids, dandruff, skin eruptions,
nervousness, acne, eczema, erysipelas,
leprosy, shingles, skin ulcers, wounds.
Other Uses
Insect repellent.
YERBA MARAVEDI
(Myginda uragoga)
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun, Yemaya, Oshun,
Elegba.
Correlating Odu: Oshe Otura.
It is not used to make ritual omiero.
Taboo for children of Oshun.
Rites of Palo
For amulets and rituals.
Other names:
Lukumi - Banaibana
Description
Common grass found in low, coastal
areas.
USES
YERBA MULATA / ROADSIDE

LEAFBRACT
(Malachra urens)
Medicinal
Urinary track complaints.
Other names:
Cuba Malva peluda
U.S. - Malachra
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
Purification baths and cleansings of

objects and the household.
To pack amulets.
Description
Erect grass. The leaves are round or
ovate; yellow flower. Found near
roadsides.
YERBA MORA / BLACK NIGHTSHADE

(Salanum nigrum)
USES
Other names:
Brazil - Guaraquinha
El Salvador -Yerba mora
Lukumi - Atore
Mexico - Mora
Per -Yerba mora
Puerto Rico - Yerba mora, matagallinas
U.S. - Black nightshade, wonderberry,
garden huckleberry
Medicinal
Bile, bronchitis, cold, colitis, dysentery,
fever, venereal disease.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Oshun
YERBA RABO DE RATON O ALACRAN
/ KNOTROOT BRISTLEGRASS
(Setania geniculata)
Description
Erect, delicate, branched, annual herb. It
has several arching, leafy branches and
tiny, starlike, white flowers. The stem and
branches are smooth and soft. It has
ovate, dark green leaves with smooth and
shiny, almost black berries as small as
pepper, growing in clusters. Berries can
sometimes be red or yellow. Flowers and
fruits almost throughout the year, but
mainly in February to July.
Other names:
Brazil - Capim rabo de raposa
U.S. Knotroot foxtail grass, Bristly foxtail,
Foxtail millet
Description
Grass usually found growing in low, moist
areas. The stems arise from a "knotty"
rhizomatous base and the herbage often
appears purple. There are many bristles
below each seed and the bristly
207
Dalia Quiros-Moran
inflorescence
maturity.
appears
yellowish
at
YUCA AGRIA
(Manihot esculenta)
USES
Other names:
Cuba - Yuca agria.
Haiti - Man-yok
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Elegba and Oshun
Description
A perennial shrub of approximately 6 feet
in height with palmate leaves and green
flowers. It propagates vegetatively by
cuttings from the stem. Cassava is grown
for its enlarged starch-filled tuberous
roots.
YUA OR AYUA
Other names:
Kongo Lunga-kuma
Description
Indigenous
tree;
the
trunk
is
greenish/white, core pale red with strikes;
the wood is hard, compact.
USES
Medicinal
Digestive complaints, eczema, tumors.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun

YUCA / CASSABA
(Manihot esculenta)
Other names:
Kongo Nkumbia, mandioka
Lukumi
Kokomadoko,
bagudan
U.S. - Tapioca
Ibagudan,
Description
A perennial shrub of approximately 6 feet
in height with palmate leaves and green
flowers. It propagates vegetatively by
cuttings from the stem. Cassava is grown
for its enlarged starch-filled tuberous
roots. There is a bitter, poisonous- and a
sweet, nonpoisonous variety of cassava,
however the skin stays poisonous and the
sweet variety should be peeled.
USES
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun.
Correlating Odu: Odi Osa.
Counteracts evil spells and harming

substances.
208
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun and Oshosi.
Z
ZARZA / DEVIL'S CLAWS
(Pisonia aculeata)
ZARZAPARILLA / CHANEY ROOT

(Smilax havanensis)
Other names:
Brazil Cipo Ponolle, Espora de gallo
Colombia Buen amigo
Cuba Ua de Gato
El Salvador Caballero
Guatemala Huele de noche
Haiti Croc de chien
Kongo Nkunia Ntuta, Nkunia Kerebende
Lukumi - Egun Iggi
Nicaragua Espino negro
Puerto Rico Escambron
Other names:
Lukumi Atewe Edin
U.S. Everglades's greenbrier, Catbrier
Description
Woody vine, to 12 ft. long, angled stems,
rigid prickles; leaves are oval, elliptic,
ovate to obovate, leathery, with prickles,
prickles on midrib below; fruit subglobose,
black; 3 seeds, maroon red; found in
pinelands and hammocks.
Description
Wooden shrubby vine with opposite
branching and pairs of sharp curved
spines in the leaf axils; may grow up to 15'
tall. The flowers are tiny clusters of yellowgreen blossoms. The fruit is dry, rounded
to oblong capsules. They are ribbed,
sticky, and softly hairy.
USES
Medicinal
Impotence, kidneys and testicles pains,
blood ailments.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Shango
Correlating Odu: Irete Yeku, Osa Obara.
USES
Medicinal
Arthritis.
Religious/Magical
Orisha Worship
Belongs to Ogun
Correlating Odu: Iwori Okana
ZARZA BLANCA / IGUANA
HACKBERRY
(Momisia iguanaea)
Other names:
Cuba Mancamontero, Ua de gato,
Zarzaparrilla cimarrona
Dominican Republic Gallito
Mexico Garabato blanco
Puerto Rico - Azufaito
U.S. Sugarberry
Description
Spreading shrub with spines; the leaves
are alternate, papery, 3-nerved, with tiny
teeth; yellowish-green flowers; drupes are
edible.
USES
Medicinal
Chest ailments
209
Dalia Quiros-Moran
GLOSSARY
Abakua: All male secret society in Cuba.
Abdominal pains: Feeling of discomfort, distress in the abdomen.
Ague: Malarial or intermittent fever.
Angina: A heavy or squeezing pain in the mid-sternal area of the chest.
Anxiety: Stress, mental and physical tension or strain.
Arada: Name used in Cuba for persons and traditions from the Kalabar region in Africa.
Arthritis: Inflammation of a joint, usually accompanied by pain, swelling and frequently,
changes in structure.
Asthma: The narrowing of the lung passageways, making respiration difficult.
Babalu Aye: Deity of leprosy and other skin infectious diseases.
Belching: Upper abdominal discomfort due to excessive swallowed air.
Boils: A staphylococcal skin infection, which involves a hair follicle, often referred to as a boil or
a furuncle.
Bladder infection: Inflammation of the bladder usually occurring secondary to ascending
urinary tract infections.
Blisters: A vesicle of the skin, containing watery matter or serum, whether occasioned by a
burn or other injury.
Blood: Considered a circulating tissue composed of a fluid portion (plasma) with suspended
formed elements: red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Bronchitis: Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the bronchial tubes
Bruise: An injury to the flesh with a blunt or heavy instrument, or by collision with some other
body.
Buccal: Pertaining to or directed toward the cheek.
Burn: A hurt, injury, or effect caused by fire or excessive or intense heat.
Chicken Pox: An acute viral disease with mild constitutional symptoms followed by an eruption
appearing in crops and characterized by macules, papules, vesicles, and crusting.
Cold sores: An area of inflammation of the lips or mucous membrane of the mouth.
Colitis: Inflammation of the colon. The mucous membranes of the colon become inflamed, and
small, pouch-like areas are formed.
Conjunctivitis: The conjunctiva is the mucous membrane that lines eyelids and is reflected
onto the eyeball. Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of this mucous membrane.
Croup: A childhood disease characterized by a resonant barking cough, suffocative and
difficult breathing, laryngeal spasm, and sometimes by the formation of a membrane.
Cystitis: Inflammation of the bladder usually occurring secondary to ascending urinary tract
infections.
Depression: Mental depression is characterized by altered mood. There is loss of interest in all
usually pleasurable outlets such as food, sex, work, friends, hobbies, or entertainment.
Diabetes: A general term for diseases characterized by excessive urination.
Diarrhea: Frequent passage of unformed watery bowel movements. It is a frequent symptom of
gastrointestinal disturbances.
Dropsy: Watery swelling in the tissues of cavities of the body.
Dysentery: A term applied to a number of intestinal disorders, especially of the colon,
characterized by inflammation of the mucous membranes
Dyspepsia: Failure of proper digestion and absorption of food in the alimentary tract, and the
consequences thereof.
Egun: Ancestral spirits.
Elegba: Orisha of the crossroads.
Eczema: An irritating skin disease.
Erysipelas: A specific, acute, inflammatory disease caused by a hemolytic streptococcus and
characterized by an eruption in the skin.
Fever: An elevation of body temperature often indicating an infection.
Fistula: Abnormal tube-like passage in the body.
Food poisoning: An imprecise term indicating an illness resulting from the ingestion of foods
containing poisonous substances.
Gall: Bile.
Gonorrhea: A contagious inflammation of the genital mucous membrane transmitted chiefly by
sexual intercourse
210
Gout: A hereditary metabolic disease that is a form of acute arthritis and is marked by
inflammation of the joints. Joints affected may be at any location but gout usually begins in the
knee or foot.
Gum disease: Any abnormality, inflammatory or degenerative, of the tissue around a tooth.
Hemorrhoids: A mass of dilated, tortuous veins in the anorectum involving the venous
plexuses of that area.
High blood pressure: Tension or tonus that is greater than normal. A condition in which the
patient has a higher blood pressure than that judged to be normal.
Hypertension: Tension or tonus that is greater than normal. A condition in which the patient
has a higher blood pressure than that judged to be normal.
Ifa: Cult to Orunmila, deity of divination. Divination system.
Impotence: Weakness, especially inability of the male to achieve or maintain erection.
Indigestion: Failure of proper digestion and absorption of food in the alimentary tract, and the
consequences thereof.
Infection: The condition of multiplication of parasitic organisms or microorganisms within the
body.
Inflammation: The reactions that occur in the affected blood vessels and adjacent tissues in
response to an injury or abnormal stimulation caused by a physical, chemical, or biologic agent.
Inflorescence: Cluster of flowers.
Inle: Deity of medicine.
Insomnia: Habitual sleeplessness, repeated night after night.
Jaundice: A condition characterized by yellowness of skin and whites of eyes
Leprosy: Chronic infectious disease affecting the skin.
Leukorrhea/Leucorrhoea: Whitish vaginal discharge.
Lukumi: Name for the Yoruba of West Africa and their traditions in Cuba.
Malaria: An acute and sometimes chronic infectious disease due to protozoan parasites within
red blood cells. These parasites are discharged through salivary ducts when the mosquito
"bites" a person.
Measles: A highly communicable disease characterized by fever, general malaise, sneezing,
nasal congestion, brassy cough, conjunctivitis spots on the buccal mucosa, and a
maculopapular eruption over the entire body caused the rubella virus.
Menopause: Cessation of menstruation in the human female, occurring usually around the age
of 50.
Migraine: Attacks of headache, usually accompanied by disordered vision and gastrointestinal
disturbances.
Nausea: An unpleasant sensation in the abdomen often culminating in vomiting.
Neurasthenia: Nervous debility and exhaustion. Symptoms include palpitations, anxiety,
dizziness, headaches, clammy hands and feet. neurasthenia is an older term.
Oba: Deity of the cemetery.
Obatala: Deity of whiteness and purity.
Obovate: Oval that is widest in the upper half. Contrast "ovate".
Orisha: Deity in Yoruba language.
Odu: Term used by the Lukumi traditions to describe divinatory receptacles of events present,
past and future.
Oge: Deity of cattle.
Ogun: Deity of iron and war.
Oke: Deity of the mountain.
Olokun: Deity of the deep seas.
Omiero: Sacred mixture of leaves used for Orisha worship rituals and ceremonies.
Orishaoko: Deity of agriculture.
Orula/Orunmila: Deity of divination.
Oshosi: Deity of the chase and hunting.
Otitis: Inflammation of the ear.
Osayin: Deity of the plants.
Oshun: Deity of the river.
Ovate: Oval that is widest in the lower half (as in a hen's egg). Contrast "ovobate"
Oya: Spirit of the winds
Pain: A message from the body that it is having trouble in a particular area.
Palo: The practice of BaKongo religions in Cuba.
211
Dalia Quiros-Moran
Palo Mayombe: tree that possesses spiritual powers.

Palpitation: A sensation of a rapid, irregular or forceful beating of the heart
Phlegm: Mucous from the bronchial tubes.
Piles: A mass of dilated, tortuous veins in the anorectum involving the venous plexuses of that
area.
Pimples: Oil glands infected with bacteria.
Pleurisy: Inflammation of the pleura
Pneumonia: Inflammation of the lungs caused primarily by bacteria, viruses, and chemical
irritants.
Psoriasis: A scaly skin disease.
Panicle: Pyramidal inflorescence formed by multiple branches. Each branch is a raceme.
Peduncle: Stalk of an inflorescence or of a flower when borne singly.
Pinnate: Leaves arranged on opposite sides of a stem.
Pistil: Female flower part that bears the stigma.
Raceme: Form of inflorescence with several single flowers growing on individual small stems
and along a larger main stem.
Rheumatism: A general term for acute and chronic conditions characterized by inflammation,
soreness and stiffness of muscles, and pain in joints and associated structures.
Rhizome: Underground horizontal stem with scale leaves at the nodes that bears shoots above
and roots
Scabies: A contagious dermatitis of humans and some animals caused by the itch mite.
Sciatica: Low back pain.
Sepals: Outermost floral whorl that serves as a protective enclosure for the petals (corolla),
stamens, and young fruit.
Serrate: Toothed along the margin with sharp, forward pointing teeth.
Shango: Deity of thunder.
Shingles: An infection caused by a herpetovirus, characterized by an eruption of groups of
vesicles on one side of the body following the course of a nerve due to inflammation of ganglia
and dorsal nerve roots resulting from activation of the virus which has been latent
Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinus.
Smallpox: An acute viral disease
Sore: A place in the body where the skin and flesh are ruptured or bruised
Spasm: A sudden, violent, involuntary contraction of a muscle
Sprain: A tearing injury to ligaments.
Stigma: Part of the pistil that receives pollen.
Stone: A stone-like concretion formed in the urinary tract or in the gall bladder.
Toothache: Pain in or around a tooth; due to the condition of the pulp or periodontal
membrane resulting from caries, infection, or trauma.
Tuberculosis: An infectious disease caused by the tubercle bacillus, Mycobacterium
tuberculosis
Tumor: An abnormal mass of tissue that results from excessive cell division that is uncontrolled
and progressive
Typhoid: An acute infectious disease caused by a bacillus (Salmonella typhi) and acquired by
ingesting food or water contaminated by excreta
Ulcers: An open sore or lesion of the skin or mucous membrane accompanied by sloughing of
the inflamed necrotic tissue.
Urticaria: A transient condition of the skin, usually caused by an allergic reaction.
Varicose veins: Enlarged, twisted superficial veins.
Warts: Benign epidermal proliferations or tumor, some are viral in origin.
Whites: Vaginal discharge.
Worms: Worms are parasites that live in the gastrointestinal tract.
Wound: A hurt or injury caused by violence; specifically, a breach of the skin and flesh of an
animal, or in the substance of any creature or living thing; a cut, stab, rent, or the like.
Yemaya: Deity of the ocean.
Yewa: Deity of the graves.
212
REFERENCES
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
Bisse, Johannes, Arboles de Cuba; Editorial Cientifico-Tecnica La Habana,

Cuba; 1988.
Brill, S., and E. Dean. Identifying and Harvesting Edible and Medicinal Plants in
Wild (and Not So Wild) Places (Hearst Books, 1994).
Buckley, Anthony D., Yoruba Medicine. Athelia Henrietta Press, New York, 1997
Cabrera Lydia, El Monte Ediciones Universal, Miami Florida Cuarta Edicion, 1975
___________ La medicina popular de Cuba: Medicos de Antao - Miami, Fl, Ultra
graphics 1984.
Fuentes VR, Granda M. Estudio sobre la medicina tradicional en Cuba vol. I.
Rev Plant Med 1982.
___________ Conozca las plantas medicinales. Editorial Cientifico-Tecnica La
Habana, Cuba 1997.
Fuentes VR, Rodrguez M, Poucheaux M, Cabrera L, Lara S. Estudio en la
medicina tradicional en Cuba. Rev Plant Med 1985.
Len Hno. Alain Hno. La flora de Cuba. La Habana: Instituto Cubano del Libro;
1964;vol V.
Little,Jr. Elbert L. Roy O. Woodbury, Frank H. Wadsworth, Trees of Puerto Rico
and the Virgin Islands, Vol. II - U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington D.C.
September, 1974.
Matton Wilbur R., Common Forest Trees of Florida, Florida Forestry Association,
sixth edition 1956.
Pujol, J., Herbalist Handbook: African Flora Medicinal Plants, Natur Africa, Natal,
1992
Roig JT. Diccionario botnico de nombres vulgares cubanos. La Habana:
Editorial Consejo Universitario; 1988 vol. I, II
_____. Plantas medicinales aromticas o venenosas de Cuba. La Habana:
Editorial Ciencia y Tcnica; 1974 vol. I. II
Seoane Gallo Jose, El Folclor Medico de Cuba: Enfermedades de la Piel Editorial de Ciencias Sociales, La Habana, 1993.
Stanley Paul C., Trees and Shrubs of Mexico Vol. I & II -, United States National
Herbarium Smithonian Institution, Washington Government Printing office, 1924
Stevenson, George B. Trees of Everglades National Park and the Florida Keys
nd
2 . Edition. 1969.
Sturrock David, Tropical fruits for Southern Florida and Cuba and other uses:
The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University, 1940.
Webster's New World Medical Dictionary, New World Dictionaries, 850 Euclid
Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44114, 1987.
213
About the Author:

Dalia Quiros-Moran was born in Havana Cuba, a descendant of African slaves and a
lineage of Orisha/Ifa worship traditions. After migrating to the United States, she was initiated
as a priestess of Yemaya in 1990. Since then, she has avidly studied the various aspects of
Lukumi Orisha Worship traditions and has authored three books (El Poder Yoruba, Tradiciones,
Unyen: Lukumi Cooking) on the subject. Now with her fourth book, Guide to Afro-Cuban
Herbalism, she focuses on the herbal remedies of traditional African medicine as brought to
Cuba by her ancestors.

Guide To Afro-Cuban Herbs

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1stBooks - rev. 08/28/03

Guide to Afro-Cuban Herbalism

Gathering the Plants

Gathering of healing plants should not be done after sun down.

Plants should never be gathered while it is raining or at noontime.

Leaves - Cut off side branches only.

ABA / SAND BOX TREE

Used to ward off evil eye in healing

Used for purification, to banish

ABEY MACHO / BLACK POUI

Guide to Afro-Cuban Herbalism

Used for purification baths.

Used for purification baths and

Protects from negativity and attracts

For love spells.

In amulets to overcome legal issues.

ABROJO AMARILLO/PUNCTURE VINE

ABROJO / JAMAICAN FEVERPLANT

bluntly pointed at the tip, rounded at the

ABROJO TERRESTRE / BIG

In baths and household cleansings to

For purification and cleansings.

To reverse spells and send them

ACANA / WILD DILLY

Guide to Afro-Cuban Herbalism

dense, brightly colored flower heads which

For charms to ward off negativity, evil

ACEBO DE SIERRA / MOUNTAIN

For purification baths.

Planted outside the

ACEDERA: Raz Paciencia.

ACEDIANA / CRESTED COCK'S COMB

underneath, slightly aromatic when

The root to make amulets to attract

ACHICORIA / DWARF CANADIAN

ACORO / SWEET FLAG

Guide to Afro-Cuban Herbalism

To dominate and confuse the enemy.

For love spells.

ADORMIDERA / OPIUM POPPY

AGALLA DE COSTA / WHITE INDIGO

AGRIMONIA /SMALL COASTAL

For purification baths.

AGRACEJO / WEST INDIAN BOXWOOD

Guide to Afro-Cuban Herbalism

For ritual baths to ward off from

For amulets to attract good fortune.

To ward off illness.

Description: See Avocado

AGUINALDO BLANCO/ CHRISTMAS

AGUEDITA / BITTER BUSH

AITE / CARIBBEAN PRINCEWOOD

To banish negative energies and

For purification baths.

In the mop water to cleanse and

AGUINALDO MORADO / BUSH

AHORCA JIBARO: Aretillo

AJI CHILE / CAYENNE PEPPER

Guide to Afro-Cuban Herbalism

AJI GUAGUAO / LOCOTO

Reduced to powder for spells.