by Tony Hemrix

Garlic is more than just a culinary ingredient in Africa. For centuries, it has been used in mystical and therapeutic practices for its purifying and protective virtues. Whether to ward off negative energies, strengthen vitality, or attract blessings, garlic plays an important role in the rituals of many African cultures.

Garlic in African Traditions

In various African beliefs, garlic is considered a plant with powerful spiritual properties. It is often used by healers, marabouts, and Vodou priests to purify the aura, ward off the evil eye, and strengthen spiritual protection.

Some traditions associate garlic with protective spirits and deities linked to purification. For example, in West Africa, garlic is sometimes offered to Ogun, the deity of iron and war, to fortify and protect those who invoke him.

Recipe for a Garlic Purification Bath

Ingredients:

• 3 cloves of garlic

• 1 liter of spring water (or blessed water)

• 1 pinch of sea salt

• 1 white candle (optional)

Preparation and Ritual:

1. Garlic Infusion

• Slightly crush the garlic cloves to release their essence.

• Boil the garlic in water for 10 minutes.

• Add a pinch of sea salt and let it cool.

2. Purification Bath

• Find a quiet place and, if possible, light a white candle.

• Recite a protection prayer or affirmation (e.g., “May this water purify my body and spirit, and remove all negativity from me.”).

• Slowly pour the infused water over your body from head to toe.

3. Closing the Ritual

• Allow your body to dry naturally, without using a towel.

• Bury the garlic remnants in the ground or throw them into a body of water to symbolize the removal of negative energies.

When to Perform This Bath?

• At night before sleeping, to cleanse accumulated energies from the day.

• On a Tuesday or Saturday, days favorable for spiritual cleansing.

• Before an important meeting or event, to ward off the evil eye.

Other Mystical Uses of Garlic in Africa

• Home Protection: Placing garlic cloves in the four corners of the house keeps negative energies away.

• Defense Amulet: Carrying a small garlic clove wrapped in a red cloth protects against spiritual attacks.

• Purifying Incense: Burning dried garlic with incense helps cleanse spaces of negative influences.

Garlic: A Mystical and Therapeutic Ally

Beyond its spiritual properties, garlic is known for its health benefits: boosting the immune system, purifying the blood, and fighting infections. Its role in African traditional medicine makes it an essential ingredient, both in rituals and daily care.

Using garlic in a ritual means reconnecting with ancestral wisdom and benefiting from a powerful protection against negative influences.

Have you ever tried a mystical garlic ritual? Share your experiences in the comments!