Blockbuster, Van Van, Uncrossing, Road Opener -- What's the Difference? What to Use Against Jinxes?

fragrant hoodoo incense burning




Many hoodoo formulas are related to one another, sometimes very closely. Some formulas, Lovers formula versus Love formula, are just manufacturer specific names for what is essentially the same product (or at least a product meant to get the same result.) Sometimes people wonder, what's the difference between Uncrossing and Van Van? What's the difference between Road Opener and Blockbuster?

First things first: Road Opener, aka Abre Camino, is not a traditional hoodoo formula, it's a Latin American loaner that has come in relatively recently along with a lot of Santeria and Brujeria practices. This is why it seems to cover the same ground that several other old hoodoo mixtures do. Blockbuster might also be in this same boat, though my evidence on this is less sure -- nonetheless it does seem to be a newer formula, and often sold with an alternate Spanish name "Arrasa con Todo."

Van Van and Uncrossing are more authentic old-time hoodoo mixtures, which traditionally are used for much the same purposes as the above mentioned. In old style hoodoo thinking, blockages are caused by crossed conditions, so Uncrossing would be used to remove them. Additionally, Van Van had the power to not just remove negativity but also draw in fortunate situations, something like Road Opener.  

While the recipes are separate, we can pretty much say Van Van and Road Opener have the same basic intention. Road Opener is probably more popular these days since it's typical in modern hoodoo that we expect conjure formulas to have a name that describes what they do -- Older formulas, meanwhile, often deliberately had names meant to obfuscate their purpose so as to avoid legal repercussions. Van Van is fairly nonsensical as a word, though it's been suggested by Cat Yronwode that it comes from the word vervain, which is sensible as proper Van Van always contains lemongrass, which in the old days was sometimes sold as verbena/vervain oil due to its similar scent to lemon verbena. Nevertheless, vervain is only helpful as a designation if you know what to use it for. Road Opener makes it much more apparent what the mix is meant to do, so it's surpassed the old Van Van in popularity.

Blockbuster and Uncrossing are both able to make their intentions clear from the name alone. Uncrossing seems to be the more popular of the two formulas here -- it's certainly sold much more frequently. Uncrossing is used to end crossed (cursed) conditions. Blockbuster, meanwhile, is meant to remove blockages, but it lacks the suggestion that the blocks were deliberately put there or that they're part of a curse. Modern thinking tends to assume a certain amount of struggle will be present in daily life, whilst older thinking apparently attributed all troubles to evil conditions placed by enemies. So basically, Blockbuster is there for those who have chronic problems that are unable to be solved by natural means, but don't feel they were caused by  a 'curse' deliberately placed.  

It's also worth noting that The Black and White Magic of Marie Laveau seems to use Special Oil #20 in places where we'd now use Blockbuster. There's also a formula called Arabka Soudagar which is another modern mixture, probably evolved from a brand of incense from India (the name seems to come from the Hindi for "Merchants of Arabia" -- probably meaning to suggest exotic perfumes) which is used as a road opening type blend as well.  

So basically we have these related formulas: Van Van, Road Opener, Blockbuster, Uncrossing, Special Oil #20 and Arabka Soudagar

Van Van, Road Opener and Arabka Soudagar all are said to be able to remove bad luck and blockages, and also draw positive influences and good luck.

Special Oil #20 is said by some to be an all-purpose mixture, but it seems to have a definite emphasis on blockage removal and solving of stubborn problems. Blockbuster is also commended for removal of blockages and recurring problems.

Uncrossing is intended specifically for removal of curses and problems which have been caused by them. Other formulas with names like Jinx Remover, Spell Breaker, Reversing, etc. also share this basic  purpose.

WHAT'S BEST FOR BREAKING JINXES?


Hoodoo, my friends, is a wild and mystical journey into the heart of folk magic. It's a practice that's been passed down through generations, a tapestry of mixtures and formulas that tackle the intricate tapestry of life itself. Today, my comrades, we embark on a brief voyage into the enigmatic world of hoodoo mixtures. We'll be diving deep into the murky waters of Blockbuster, Uncrossing, Road Opener, and Van Van, four concoctions that hold the power to shatter barriers, cleanse the soul, and unlock the doors to uncharted realms. And perhaps, just perhaps, we'll uncover the perfect elixir to tackle your own woes.

BLOCKBUSTER

The Blockbuster mixture holds a relatively recent origin within the realm of hoodoo. As its name suggests, it is primarily used to remove blockages that hinder progress in various aspects of life. However, some practitioners advise combining it with other mixtures such as Van Van or Uncrossing, as Blockbuster is believed to break through barriers rather than completely eliminate them. This pairing ensures that the pathways opened by Blockbuster remain clear of any residual negative energies or influences. When faced with persistent obstacles or stagnation, Blockbuster offers an energetic push to overcome barriers and forge a path towards success.

UNCROSSING

In traditional hoodoo practices, the concept of a "crossed condition" was prevalent. It was believed that many misfortunes and challenges in life were a result of such conditions or the influence of enemies. The Uncrossing mixture, similar to Blockbuster, was employed to address these crossed conditions. By utilizing the powerful properties of various ingredients, Uncrossing aids in removing negative energies, hexes, or curses that may have been placed upon an individual. It serves as a spiritual cleansing agent, helping to restore balance and harmony to one's life. Those seeking to overcome specific misfortunes or break free from negative patterns may find Uncrossing to be an effective solution.

ROAD OPENER

While not originating from traditional hoodoo practices, the Road Opener mixture has gained popularity within the community. Borrowed from Mexican and Hispanic traditions, Road Opener is used to remove any hidden blockages and open up pathways to new possibilities. It serves as a potent tool for those who feel trapped or stagnant, allowing them to explore uncharted territories and embrace fresh opportunities. By dissolving unknown obstacles and expanding horizons, Road Opener enables individuals to manifest their desires and create positive changes in their lives. Whether seeking new ventures or overcoming a sense of entrapment, Road Opener offers a powerful surge of transformative energy.

VAN VAN

Considered one of the oldest and most multitasking hoodoo mixtures, Van Van has long been favored for its ability to unblock happiness, reverse bad luck, and enhance the effectiveness of other formulas. Lemongrass-based and as versatile as they come, Van Van is the Swiss Army knife of hoodoo mixtures. It's a magic spell in a bottle. Van Van serves as a spiritual cleanser, removing negative influences and fortifying one's aura. Additionally, it acts as a magnet for good luck, attracting positive energies and opportunities. Although its name may not explicitly convey its purpose, Van Van remains a popular choice among practitioners due to its extensive range of effects. For individuals seeking an all-purpose mixture that promotes overall well-being and success, Van Van stands as a reliable option.

CHOOSING THE MOST APPROPRIATE MIXTURE

When deciding which mixture is best suited to address specific problems, it is essential to consider the nature of the obstacles one faces. Blockbuster is ideal for those encountering persistent barriers hindering progress, while Uncrossing specifically targets crossed conditions and negative influences. Road Opener proves beneficial for individuals seeking to break free from stagnation and embrace new opportunities, while Van Van offers a comprehensive approach to unblocking happiness and success. Understanding the unique characteristics of each mixture allows practitioners to align their needs and intentions with the appropriate formula.

Hoodoo mixtures such as Blockbuster, Uncrossing, Road Opener, and Van Van hold the power to remove blockages, clear negative energies, and open doors to new possibilities. By exploring the origins and applications of these mixtures, individuals can identify the most suitable solution for their unique challenges, allowing them to embark on a path of personal growth and transformation.