Is Gayuma Real? The Truth Might Surprise You

Even today, many of us still believe in gayuma, or love spells. You will no longer find them only in Quiapo, because they are now available online as well. But the question many people ask is: are they really true? Let us look back at where they started and how our ancestors used them.

The History of Gayuma in Filipino Culture

During the time of our ancestors, they believed that everything carried spiritual energy. That is why it is not surprising that the use of gayuma became part of their lives, especially when it came to matters of love.

One well-known example is Jumaya, a love potion from the Visayas that was allegedly used by women to attract the person they desired. There was also a countermeasure for it called buringot.

There was also lumay, a type of incense burned on the clothes of the person one wanted to enchant. It was said to have often been sold by the Negritos.

Because of our ancestors’ creativity, gayuma took many forms. Some were mixed into food or drinks, while others were made into amulets. Even today, these kinds of products can still be found in Quiapo and in online shops.

Stories from Different Places

In Pangasinan, there is a story about an amulet that supposedly comes from the heart of a banana plant that falls at midnight. However, it is not easy to obtain because spirits are said to guard it. If you manage to get it, you are believed to gain strong charisma.

In Surigao del Norte, there is also a tradition of making love potions using medicinal plants such as Dischidia leaves and Pandan seeds. A study was even conducted about this. This means that this kind of knowledge is not only found in Siquijor, but also in other parts of the Philippines.

Does Gayuma Really Work?

If your belief is strong, it may possibly work. But belief alone is not enough. It also requires the right process, the right materials, and the right intention.

For example, if you simply use garlic, instead of attracting the person you like, you might literally just smell bad to them. That is why you should be careful with love spells you randomly find online, especially on YouTube or TikTok. Many of them are made only for views and have no real basis.

A Reminder Before Using Gayuma

There is nothing wrong with using gayuma if your intention is to fix a relationship or family situation. It may help if the intention is clean and the process is done properly.

However, it is still better to get it from someone with experience and the ability to read your situation before performing any ritual. This way, you will not waste your money, and you can avoid unwanted effects.