I can't believe no one has mentioned the plague yet XD Instant knockout for any mortal you need to get past but can't kill. Also it's a good idea to give guys with weapons something less harmful like a squirt gun (already stated) or my favorite a pillow.
This game has so many great items. Also an alternative for summoning a god is to summon a goddess, or death, or a vampire, or a polar bear. All of them are super strong.