"No shell ash, no man."
This is a quote from a Tao elder, from which we can learn that shell ash and shells are such sacred and meaningful things for Tao from Orchid Island!
They do not only eat betel nuts with shell ash, but also paint their traditional boats with the shell ash, heal wounds, and even evict evil spirits with it!
Just because shell ash is so special that there are many taboos or rules to follow when making the ash. For example, only in the 9th month in the lunar calendar of Tao can they make shell ash. Also to make shell ash is men's job, not for women -- especially strictly prohibited for those women who take care of taro cultivation!
Why? How come?
Well, because Tao believe their shell ash which can evict evil spirits would instead kill all the taros if it is spread to the taro field by women's hands.
On the other hand, Tao are used to hanging some fishing net and shells beside taro fields, because they believe the Chiragra spider conch can bring the fields water, and other shells like Turbo marmoratus can evict evil spirits from stealing taros away. Actually according to some experts, when shells are hung besides taro fields, weather in the wind and cover the fields, could help keep bugs away!
The Tao cultures of shells and shell ash are so special!
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