Roots, herbs, botanicals, minerals, and curios have long been used in Hoodoo and Conjure according to their traditional spiritual associations. Different materials are chosen depending on the intention of the work, such as protection, prosperity, love, cleansing, uncrossing, road opening, or reversal.

Learning the purpose of each ingredient is an important part of rootwork. Rather than choosing ingredients simply because they are available, select materials whose traditional uses correspond with the condition you are working on.