Cascarilla, pronounced /kæs.kəˈrɪl.ə/, is a Spanish word that refers to the thin, white bark of the Croton eluteria tree. The spelling follows Spanish orthography, with a "c" pronounced as /k/, an "a" pronounced as /æ/, an "s" pronounced as /s/, and a double "l" pronounced as /j/. The stress falls on the second syllable, indicated by the accent mark over the letter "i". Cascarilla is commonly used in religious and spiritual practices, such as to cleanse a space or protect against negative energy.
Cascarilla is a noun that refers to a type of powder made from crushed and powdered eggshells. It is commonly used in various spiritual practices and rituals. The word "cascarilla" is derived from the Spanish word "cáscara," meaning "shell" or "peel." In religious contexts, it particularly signifies a ritualistic use within Afro-Caribbean traditions, such as Santería and Voodoo.
Cascarilla powder is often obtained from eggshells that have been thoroughly cleaned, dried, and then crushed into a fine powder. The powder typically has a white, chalky appearance. It can be found in small containers or can be prepared at home using eggshells from domestic sources.
Cascarilla is believed to possess protective and purifying properties, frequently used to draw spiritual boundaries and ward off negative energies or influences. Practitioners may use cascarilla by applying it in the form of a powdered line, circle, or cross on their bodies or ritual objects. It can also be blended with other ingredients to create ointments, oils, or spiritual baths.
The use of cascarilla is not limited to Afro-Caribbean religious practices and can be found in different forms of folk magic or spiritual customs around the world. However, its significance may vary depending on the particular belief system or spiritual tradition.
Sweetwood bark; the dried bark of Croton eluteria, a shrub of the Bahama Islands; aromatic stimulant in doses of gr. 30 (2.0).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The bark of a tree of Jamaica; a powerful tonic.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "cascarilla" derives from the Spanish language. Its etymology can be traced back to the Spanish verb "cascar", which means "to crack" or "to break". The suffix "-illa" in Spanish is a diminutive, often used to indicate a small or lesser version of something. Therefore, "cascarilla" can be translated as "small crack" or "little broken piece". In the specific context of the word "cascarilla", it refers to the powdered or crushed bark of certain plants, commonly used in various religious or spiritual practices.