Cascarilla, also known as eggshell powder, has been used in various folk traditions for centuries. It is made from finely ground eggshells and is believed to have protective and cleansing properties.
It is widely used in Santeria, Hoodoo, and other Afro-Caribbean religions and traditions. Cascarilla was used as a replacement for sacred white earth, or kaolin clay, as used in West African traditions. Originally, this substitute was made from the cascarilla tree, which is how it came by it's name. Over time, this gave way to using eggshells as they were more widely available, were white in colour, and they also represent fertility, protection, and creative life force.
In many cultures, cascarilla is believed to have protective properties. It is often used to create a protective barrier around the home or to ward off negative energy. In some traditions, cascarilla is used to create a protective circle during rituals or ceremonies. It is believed that the powder creates a barrier that prevents negative energy or spirits from entering the space. I prefer to use this when casting circles in Nature instead of salt, as salt can be harmful to plants and animals.
It can be used to cleanse the aura or energy field of a person. In some traditions, cascarilla is used to cleanse the body before a ritual or ceremony. It is believed that the powder removes negative energy or spirits from the body, leaving the person feeling refreshed and renewed.
Eggshell powder is also used in various culinary traditions. In some cultures, eggshells are ground into a fine powder and added to food as a source of calcium. It is believed that the powder is more easily absorbed by the body than other forms of calcium.
Cascarilla, or eggshell powder, has been used in various folk traditions for centuries. It is believed to have protective and cleansing properties and is often used in rituals, ceremonies, and healing traditions. While the scientific evidence for its effectiveness is limited, cascarilla and eggshell powder continue to be used in many cultures as a natural and safe alternative to conventional medicine.