OS ENCANTOS DE ÒSÙN: O ÀSE DE SUAS ERVAS USADAS NO CANDOMBLÉ KÉTU-NÀGÓ

Abstract

This study is an approach regarding the Orísá Òsùn and the importance of its herbs for Candomblé Kétu-Nàgó. As a way of problematizing the research, the following question was delimited: What is the importance of Orisá Òsùn and of the ethnobotany of the Seed of its herbs used in Candomblé? How can this knowledge of plants contribute to a better understanding of African Matrix religions? The general objective is to identify the use of herbs in Candomblé and to understand the relationship with Orísà Òsùn. The specific objectives are: to analyze the herbs of Orísà Ósùn; to know the sacred of Orísá Òsùn and its connection to its main element “water”; characterize the leaves of Orísà Òsùn; to present the importance of ethnobotany in the cult of leaves in the Candomblé de Kétu-Nàgó, identifying that plants besides being used for spells have their phytotherapeutic values; and, to understand the ethnobotany of Orisà Òsùn herbs used in Candomblé. Regarding the methodological framework, in addition to the bibliographical research, has a field survey through a questionnaire answered by Candomblé Kétu-Nàgó supporters. The importance and types of the leaves most used in the cult of this Orísá is registered. The research began with a bibliographical study and interviews with adherents of the Kétu-Nàgó religion. From these interviews it was possible to map the most used herbs of the Orisà Òsùn in the sacred rituals and it was compared with the studies of Pierre Verger (éwe). The action attributed to plants, the operative word, the medicinal recipes and the magic of each leaf of the Òrìsà Òsùn were thus recorded. The conclusions showed that leaves are indispensable in functions, each symbol has its meaning and use and different properties. The sacred greens of the leaves represent the cycle of life and death, and even through the traditional knowledge members of the community preserve life and the sacred fast in nature.