In Santería and the Yoruba religion, ram tallow is primarily used in healing rituals, spiritual cleansing, and the preparation of ceremonial ointments to strengthen the physical and spiritual body. It is valued for its emollient properties and is applied in rubs to relieve pain, inflammation, and strengthen joints after rituals.
Physical and Spiritual Healing: It is used in traditional and ritual medicine to treat pain, dislocations, and sprains, often applied with a red cloth.
Preparation of Ointments: It acts as a base for creams that require consistency, being rich in fatty acids that nourish and repair the skin, acting as a protector.
Consecration Rituals: The ram is a sacred animal dedicated to the Orishas (deities), so its derivatives, including fat, can be used in specific contexts of offering and protection.