Is White Sage Illegal?

In some cases permits are given on public lands for commercial harvest of economically valued plants, but in the case of white sage no such permit exists. The only way this would be legal is if harvesting took place on private land with permission.

Is it disrespectful to use white sage?

Because of all that complicated history of sage burning, when non-Native people use white sage to “smudge” their homes or other spaces, it infringes upon the cultural importance and authenticity of the ritual and prayer — simply, it’s cultural appropriation.

Is it okay to burn white sage?

Sage should never be harvested, plucked, burned or used in any way, shape or form if you’re “under the influence” — so no drinking or smoking and smudging. There’s also something to be said for sustainability, so it’s wise to burn a single leaf at a time, rather than light up the entire bundle.

Can white sage be sold?

Bundles of white sage and Palo Santo packaged as “smudging kits” are available for sale at yoga studio gift shops, popular retailers like Madewell and Urban Outfitters, and even behemoths like Walmart.

What is the problem with white sage?

The plant itself may not be endangered, but its habitat is threatened by encroaching development. In early August, intense wildfires destroyed miles of white sage habitat. Global warming impacts the plant in other ways, too, as rising sea levels erode its coastal habitat.

Can non natives smudge?

As long as you’re respectful, we firmly believe that smudging and use of other sacred medicines is perfectly acceptable for those who do not come from Indigenous culture.

Who should use white sage?

In 2014, researchers found that white sage has been used to treat anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. It can help you think better. While more research is needed, a 2016 review found that sage might enhance cognition functions and may even be useful as a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.

When burning sage What do you say?

11 Mantras for Smudging

1. I cleanse my home of any heaviness and negativity.
2. I live in harmony of mind, body, and spirit.
3. I am grateful for health, abundance, and happiness.
4. I release all energies that do not serve me.
5. I release any worry from my body and my home.
6. I release attachment and call in freedom.

What is blue sage?

Blue sage is a member of the Mint family (Lamiaceae). “Salvia” is a name that means “healer,” referring to this ancient name for a sage with medicinal properties. The species name “azurea” is Latin for “sky blue.” Blue sage is a common name that refers to several different plant species.

How long should I burn sage?

Hold the sage at a 45-degree angle, light the sage, let it burn for about 20 seconds and then gently blow out the flame so that you see orange embers on one end. Then you can start the process of clearing your space. Clients sometimes complain that they can’t get their sage to stay lit.

How do you ethically buy white sage?

Ethical Sources of White Sage
When you buy white sage, choose organically grown white sage. Avoid wild harvested sage and sage smudge sticks. If the seller can’t tell you the origin, that’s not a good sign. You can purchase white sage and smudge sticks from First Nation’s people who use sustainable practices.

Can I grow white sage at home?

Indoor Growing
White Sage is not a successful houseplant, because it needs full, direct sun and excellent air circulation. Salvia apiana is a small, upright shrub with little branching. Its whitish green leaves, which grow in tight basal rosettes, are stiff and just a bit fleshy.

Why are people poaching white sage?

Because white sage can make a good profit, when white sage is poached the whole plant is taken, often killing the sage plant. The health of the plant and the season are almost never taken into account, reducing the survival of the sage even further.

How do you smudge respectfully?

How to smudge your living space, an object, and more

1. Light the end of a sage bundle with a match.
2. The tips of the leaves should smolder slowly, releasing thick smoke.
3. Allow the incense to linger on the areas of your body or surroundings you’d like to focus on.
4. Allow the ash to collect in a ceramic bowl or shell.

What does white sage do spiritually?

Sage smelling is intended to provide good energy and can be used to clean rooms as well as objects or people. It frees us from heavy negative energy that takes away our strength and joy, and cleanses the soul, body and mind so that we can receive more positive energy and higher vibrations.

Is smudging religious?

Smudging serves a variety of functions in different Indigenous cultures. As a ritual event, it is considered significant to spiritual and theological beliefs, as are sweat lodges and sacred pipes in certain cultures. (See also Religion and Spirituality of Indigenous Peoples in Canada.)

Is white sage good?

White Sage has been known for its medicinal properties since centuries. It offers excellent anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that promote health and prevents infections. It also acts as a stimulant and is sometimes used to treat digestive problems.

What is the purpose of burning sage?

Native Americans and other indigenous peoples have burned sage for centuries as part of a spiritual ritual to cleanse a person or space, and to promote healing and wisdom. It’s been used since the time of the ancient Egyptians and Romans to treat digestive issues, memory problems, and sore throats.

How do you smudge someone?

The flames are then gently blown out and the smoke, which heals the mind, heart and body, is wafted over the person, either by hand or with an eagle feather. The person being smudged pulls the smoke to them and gently inhales the smoke.

What to say when you smudge yourself?

Hello, my name is ___; I am moving into this space. I want to thank all of the land stewards and spirits of the land. I want to acknowledge the first people of the land. I want to state my intention of creating a home for myself here, living in reciprocity with the spirits that are present.

Can you smudge at night?

Smudging can be done at any time of day or night, whenever it is needed.