Fumigation (in Exorcism)
One of the most important rites during the exorcism of an
evil spirit appears to have been the fumigation of the victim,
and for this various prescriptions were given throughout occult
history. If it was found difficult to dislodge the demon, a picture
of him would sometimes be drawn, which was to be thrown into
a fire after having been signed with the cross, sprinkled with
holy water, and fumigated.
At other times if the evil spirit refused to give his name the
exorcist would fumigate the possessed person. The recipe for
fumigation included such substances as asafoetida, sulphur,
and salt. Fumigation was sometimes enhanced by flagellation.
