The Fon term bǒ can be translated into English as "charm"; many Francophone Beninese refer to them as gris gris. These are amulets made from zoological and botanical material that is then activated using secret incantations, the latter called bǒgbé ("bǒ's language"). Families or individuals often keep their recipes for creating bǒ a closely guarded secret; there is a widespread belief that if someone else discovers the precise ingredients they will have power over its maker. Bǒ are often sold; tourists for instance often buy them to aid in attracting love, wealth, or protection while travelling.
The Fon term bǒ can be translated into English as "charm"; many Francophone Beninese refer to them as gris gris. These are amulets made from zoological and botanical material that is then activated using secret incantations, the latter called bǒgbé ("bǒ's language"). Families or individuals often keep their recipes for creating bǒ a closely guarded secret; there is a widespread belief that if someone else discovers the precise ingredients they will have power over its maker. Bǒ are often sold; tourists for instance often buy them to aid in attracting love, wealth, or protection while travelling