Is White Sage Harmful?

It’s actively harmful, and because sage passes through so many wholesalers and vendors, some people that sell white sage don’t know if it was harvested ethically or even legally.

Why you shouldn’t 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 white sage poisonous?

White sage contains a toxic compound known as thujone. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, this compound increases your heart rate and causes mental confusion. It also leads to vomiting, restlessness and kidney complications. Hence, you should exercise caution when using white sage.

Is it okay to burn white sage?

White prairie sage (Artemisia ludoviciana) is both antimicrobial and antibacterial . White sage (Salvia apiana) is also antimicrobial. And both have been shown to repel insects. Beliefs that burning sage clears out spiritual impurities, pathogens, and even insects have been fundamental to the practice of smudging.

Is burning sage poisonous?

As far as burning sage is concerned, it is generally safe to do so, even around children and pets. Just be aware of any possible respiratory conditions they might have. (They may not like the smell of burning sage.)

How do you sage a house with negative energy?

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.

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.

What did Indians use white sage for?

Smoke from white sage (Artemesia califoncia) is used for purification of mind, body and spirit and sacred articles in advance of prayers and ceremonies. White sage is burned for meditation, smudging and cleansing of spirit and dwelling.

Is white sage a narcotic?

The Food and Drug Administration classifies Artemisia as an unsafe herb containing “a volatile oil which is an active narcotic poison” (Duke 1985).

Why is white sage sacred?

White sage has been used traditionally to purify the mind, body and spirit before praying. Native Americans also used white sage in ceremonies of birth and death. Sacred objects such as pipes and eagle feathers were passed through the smoking of burning white sage in order to purify them.

Can I burn sage if I’m not indigenous?

If you’re not a member of an Indigenous community, purchasing white sage, Palo Santo, or other sacred herbs and quickly Googling “how to smudge” will not make you qualified to do so. This is cultural appropriation, and it’s harmful to Native communities.

How do you smudge respectfully?

Start with smudging yourself by trailing the smoke down your body before moving on to each room. Waft the smoke from corner to corner, before eventually making your way back to the front of the house.

What does burning sage in your house do?

Burning sage is is a powerful ritual
The ritual of sage burning has its roots in Native American tradition. Today, people burn sage and other holy herbs to cleanse a space or environment of negative energy, to generate wisdom and clarity, and to promote healing.

Does sage produce carbon monoxide?

Smoke from smudging sage won’t emit carbon monoxide because carbon monoxide is a normal constituent of exhaust gases from incomplete combustion. Smoke from smudging sage was tested for the most common air pollutants that it could give off.

Is it OK to burn sage around dogs?

While smudging can have great benefits for us humans, Quinn says that it can be harmful to our four-legged friends. “Sage is considered a nontoxic herb. It is safe for your dog to consume in their diet, but burning it around your pup is not a good idea,” she shares.

How do I turn sage off?

The first way is to set the sage directly back in the fireproof bowl, set it on your stove, and let it burn out on its own. You should supervise this process, so try to stay close until the smoke stops. The second way is to crush the tip of the smudge stick into the fireproof bowl you used for the practice.

What kind of sage is good for cleansing?

For example, blue sage is used in cleansing and healing rituals, while desert sage is used for purifying and protection. Other herbs, including juniper and sweetgrass, can also be burned for similar purposes.

What is the smudging prayer?

A Smudging Prayer
May your hands be cleansed, that they create beautiful things. May your feet be cleansed, that they might take you where you most need to be. May your heart be cleansed, that you might hear its messages clearly. May your throat be cleansed, that you might speak rightly when words are needed.

What can I use instead of white sage for cleansing?

Fortunately, there are many alternatives to white sage for all of your smudging needs.
Some popular herbs for smudging include the following:

• Cedar.
• Frankincense.
• Juniper.
• Lavender.
• Lemon Balm.
• Myrrh.
• Palo Santo.
• Sweetgrass.

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.

How do you sage your house for the first time?

Start at the front door of the home and light your smudge stick. Then, begin to move around the home. Move mindfully and with care, walking clockwise around the entire perimeter of the home. Be sure to allow the smoke to drift into even the hidden spaces, like inside closets, basements and dark corners.