Staffs can be made from brass, bronze, iron, wood and ivory, or even a combination of different materials. Staffs have a variety of functions, some contain medicine, e.g. Osun Staffs. Some may only be used by individuals who have reached a certain office in the Edo socio-political hierarchy, or by the Oba himself e.g. Staff of Office. Others may have a dual function and can also be used to make sound, either through an integral rattle, or by hitting the staff with a Striker.