Chango oil

Changó carries a double-headed axe and throws thunderbolts; where lightning strikes, devotees say he has passed.

Origin & Traditional Use

Changó, Ṣàngó in Yoruba, is the orisha of thunder, lightning and fire, of the batá drums, dance and male virility. In Yoruba tradition he was a king of Oyo who became an orisha. In Cuba his colours are red and white and he is identified with Saint Barbara. The oil is a modern devotional blend.

Uses by Tradition

Santería & Lucumí

• Candle offerings: anoint a red and white candle and offer apples, bananas or red wine before his image.
• Victory: dress a candle when facing an opponent or a contest, asking Changó to fight on your side.
• Justice: dress a candle in matters where someone has lied or acted unjustly; Changó is known for punishing liars.

Folk Catholicism & Spiritism

• Saint Barbara: dress a candle before her image, with her tower and sword, on her feast of 4 December.
• Passion: anoint the candle when praying for vitality, desire and confidence.

A Simple Working

• On 4 December or any day you need him, set a red candle before an image of Changó or Saint Barbara.
• Anoint the candle with Chango oil.
• Offer six red apples or a plate of bananas.
• Light the candle and ask plainly for victory or courage in your situation.
• Let the candle burn out.
• After a few days, take the fruit to a tree, ideally a palm or a large tree.

Pairs Well With

• A red candle: his colour.
• Red apples: a favourite offering.
• A Saint Barbara statue: the saint through whom he is approached.
• Ogun oil: for the strength and drive of a fellow warrior orisha.

Lore & History

In Yoruba history Ṣàngó is remembered as the fourth Alaafin of Oyo, who after his death was worshipped as the thunder god. His sacred drums are the batá, and his tool is the oshé, a double-headed axe. In Lucumí patakí he is the great lover of Oyá and Ochún.

What You Receive

Chango oil, available in 2 dram, 1 oz and 16 oz sizes.