Ebos

All rites are preceded by Ebos. The word Ebo includes all types of sacrifices and offerings of food, drink and property. It also means a petition, an imploration, a supplication. The idea of purification is implicit in Ebo and includes the cleanliness, both physical and spiritual of the person making Ebo.

The Ebo repertory is endless. They range from the simplest, a small love gift of fruit or drink to an Orisha; to the most expensive and difficult to employ, demanding the death by fire of bulls and horses. The Orishas need food and blood. Blood increases their energies and maintains them potent, efficient and satisfied with their worshippers. In turn, the Orishas render renewed strength and vitality to the person making, and to those participating in, a blood sacrifice.

Ebos are needed when being initiated into Santeria and receiving the collars. They shield from danger, illness, and death. There are Ebos to obtain your heart's desire, to better your life, to succeed in any undertaking. They are also employed to protect from witchcraft, to appease an Orisha's anger, to woo an Orisha's favors and to distance yourself from the influence of the dead. They woo lovers and they also kill. All needs are met through Ebos.

http://w3.iac.net/~moonweb/Santeria/Chapter12.html