High John the Conqueror is one of the best-known names in hoodoo and African American folk tradition, associated with strength, perseverance, confidence and good fortune. Our High John range covers a wash, a bath oil, bath salts, two soaps and the dried root itself, and the most common question we hear in the Brixton shop is simple: which one should I use?
The short answer is that it depends on how you want to work. This guide compares each format so you can choose the one that suits your routine. As with all our guides, these are descriptions of traditional beliefs and practices, not promises of a particular result.
At a glance: which High John product should you choose?
- Choose the High John Spiritual Wash if you want one bottle for floor washes, doorsteps and a cleansing routine around the home. It is the most versatile option for spaces rather than the body.
- Choose Dr Proctor's High John Bath Oil if you want a ritual bath before an interview, meeting or important decision. A few drops go a long way.
- Choose High John Salt Crystals if you prefer a traditional salt bath or want to combine salt and fragrance in one step.
- Choose the soap bar or liquid soap if you want something you can use every day in the shower without preparing a bath.
- Choose the dried root if you are making a charm or mojo bag, or want a symbolic focus to keep with you.
High John Spiritual Wash
Spiritual washes are traditionally diluted in a bucket of water and used to wipe floors, doorsteps and thresholds, often working from the back of the home towards the front door. Some people also use a wash in a bath, but only do this if the label on your bottle says it is suitable for the body.
Our High John Spiritual Wash comes in a 472ml bottle at £6.99, which makes it the best value if you want to cleanse a whole space regularly.
Good for: home and shop floor washes, doorsteps, a fresh start in a new home or workplace.
Keep in mind: follow the dilution on the bottle, test an inconspicuous area of flooring first and never mix it with bleach or other cleaning products.
Dr Proctor's High John Bath Oil
A bath oil is the more personal option. The traditional approach is to add a few drops to a warm bath and spend the time focusing on what you want to overcome or achieve. Some people also use a small amount to anoint the body.
Dr Proctor's High John the Conqueror Bath Oil is available in 100ml (£8.99) and 250ml (£14.99) bottles.
Good for: a focused ritual bath before an interview, exam, court date or big decision.
Keep in mind: oils make baths slippery, so take care getting in and out, and avoid the eyes.
High John Salt Crystals
Salt baths are one of the oldest cleansing practices across many cultures. Bath salts let you combine that tradition with the High John association in one step: dissolve a handful in warm bath water and soak.
High John Salt Crystals are £6.99 a pack and are easy to use if you do not want to measure out oils.
Good for: a simple weekly cleansing bath, or pairing with a candle for a longer ritual.
Keep in mind: if you have sensitive skin, start with a smaller amount.
High John soap bar and liquid soap
Soaps are the most practical choice for everyday use. Many people lather downwards to cleanse and clear, or upwards to draw in confidence and good fortune, while focusing on their intention.
The High John Spiritual Soap is an 85g bar at £5.99. The High John Liquid Soap is a 250ml bottle at £9.99 and is handy for hands and showers.
Good for: a daily routine, or a quick wash before leaving home for an important day.
Keep in mind: rinse well and avoid contact with the eyes.
Wash vs bath oil vs salts vs soap: quick comparison
| Product | Best for | How it is used | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spiritual Wash | Homes, floors, doorsteps | Diluted in water | £6.99 (472ml) |
| Bath Oil | Ritual baths | A few drops in a bath | From £8.99 |
| Salt Crystals | Cleansing baths | Dissolved in a bath | £6.99 |
| Soap Bar | Daily use | Bath or shower | £5.99 |
| Liquid Soap | Daily use, hands | Bath, shower or sink | £9.99 |
Building a simple High John routine
You do not need everything in the range. A common approach is to pair one cleansing product with one focus item:
- For the home: a floor wash with the Spiritual Wash, followed by a High John glass candle.
- For yourself: a bath with the Bath Oil or Salt Crystals, then dress a candle with High John Spiritual Oil.
- To carry with you: a piece of High John root in a charm bag, with a wash using the soap before you leave home.
If you would like a longer burn for an ongoing intention, the High John 14 Day Candle and High John Dressed Candle are popular choices. For more background, the book High John the Conqueror Charms & Rituals covers traditional practice in more depth.
Safety
All of these products are for external use only. Never drink a wash, oil or bath product, and keep them away from the eyes and broken skin. If you have sensitive skin, try a small amount first. The dried root is sold for charm and craft use only: it should never be eaten or made into a drink. Keep all products out of reach of children and pets, and always follow the directions on the label of the product you buy.
Shop the High John range
You can find the full range, including candles, oils, incense and powders, by searching High John in our shop. If you are unsure which product suits your practice, visit us in Brixton and we will be happy to help.