Introduction to Charms

Charms take the form of what is called gris-gris (pro-
nounced ‘gree-gree’) bags. This is what they are called in
Louisiana. But, this method of making charms is not exclusive
to Louisiana. In fact, they are called by different names in
various parts of the world—conjure bags, ouanga bags,
medicine bags, charm bags, mojo bags, etc. Regardless of
the name used, these are small red flannel or chamois drawstring
bags, two inches wide and three inches long.
Into the gris-gris bag goes a variety of items; herbs, roots,
powders, stones, pieces of colored cloth or feathers, bones,
symbols for luck or love or money. Personal items belonging
to the individual for whom the gris-gris bag is made are also
added: hair, nail parings, pieces of soiled clothing containing
perspiration, even discarded Kleenex tissues could be used.
The number of items always used to make a gris-gris bag are
one, three, five, seven, nine or thirteen. No more than thirteen
and never an even number.
The gris-gris bag is a form of talismanic magick in itself
and is always made through ritual at an altar. A properly made
and consecrated gris-gris bag, when worn by the individual, is
believed to help attract or dispel from the person certain
influences. Thus, the gris-gris bag can be made for many pu