Alternatives to White Sage for Smudging
- Black sage.
- Garden sage.
- Wormwood (this is my go-to, since it’s so abundant where I live)
- Cedar.
- Pine.
- Holy basil.
- Mints.
- Rosemary.
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.
What can I use to smudge my house?
There are many different plant materials you can use for smudging. Some common ones are sage, cedar, sweet grass, and lavender.
What can I use instead of sage or Palo Santo?
Alternatives for Palo Santo
- White Sage. However that white sage is getting overcultivated, it’s not on the endangered list because it’s also easy to grow.
- Dragon’s Blood. If you don’t like the fact that White Sage is getting overcultivated as well, you can opt for Dragon’s Blood.
- Salt.
- Resin Incense.
- Oil Diffuser.
Do you have to use white sage for smudging?
White sage is the most common variety you’ll find in a smudge stick, since the color is associated with purity. However, other dried plants such as juniper, rosemary, and cedar can also be used to clear energy if sage isn’t your thing.
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.
Does burning sage cleanse your house?
Scientists have observed that sage can clear up to 94 percent of airborne bacteria in a space and disinfect the air. When sage is burned, it releases negative ions, which is linked to putting people into a positive mood.
How can I reduce negative energy in my home?
15 Ways to Get Rid of Negative Energy in Your Home
- of 15. Try airing everything out.
- of 15. Carefully burn some incense.
- of 15. Be sure to repair or remove broken things.
- of 15. Spray orange essential oil around your home.
- of 15. Remove clutter as soon as possible.
- of 15.
- of 15.
- of 15.
How do you sage a house with negative energy?
How to smudge your living space, an object, and more
- Light the end of a sage bundle with a match.
- The tips of the leaves should smolder slowly, releasing thick smoke.
- Allow the incense to linger on the areas of your body or surroundings you’d like to focus on.
- Allow the ash to collect in a ceramic bowl or shell.
What time of day should you sage your house?
The best time to sage is whenever you want
However, you can sage your home any time you feel called to, whether you want to energetically reset or just chill out a bit. It is also a good practice to sage after entertaining or having people over.
What can you burn in place of sage?
Clear Your Cleanse: 6 Herbs to Burn Instead of Sage
- Rosemary. Rosemary is a common garden plant that you can grow almost anywhere—even at your kitchen window.
- Lavender.
- Juniper.
- Cedar.
- Bay Leaves.
- Cinnamon.
What is the best incense for cleansing?
7 Best Incense for Cleansing
- Clove. Clove is a traditional incense scent and is one of the most commonly used.
- Cedar. Cedar is an excellent cleansing incense as well.
- Lavender. Lavender incense offers a double whammy when it comes to cleansing.
- Myrrh.
- Sandalwood.
- Eucalyptus.
- Pine.
What is Palo Santo used for spiritually?
Similar to Sage and Cedar, Palo Santo is most widely used for spiritual purification and energy (house) cleansings. Once the wood sticks are burned, the smoke is believed to clear negative energy and restore tranquility and calm emotions.
Is it cultural appropriation to use white sage?
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 spiritually cleanse a new house?
First, open the window to let light and air into the space. Then Malekpour suggests opening the sacred space by “calling in your angels, allies, and ancestors of 100 percent light.” Then use sage or a favorite smoke cleansing herb, and cleanse the inside and outside of the home.
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.
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 it bad to burn sage?
Is It Safe to Burn Sage? Breathing in smoke carries some possible risks, Fleg says. Although researchers haven’t studied sage burning specifically, burning incense has been linked to lung problems and allergies.
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.
Can I light sage with a lighter?
“Like, we don’t believe you should light your smudge or your sage with a lighter. We believe that the butane in lighters kind of kills that medicine, so you should use matches.” You shouldn’t blow on your smudge, either; instead, Millar suggests using a feather to fan the flames.
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.
Lorraine Wade is all about natural food. She loves to cook and bake, and she’s always experimenting with new recipes. Her friends and family are the lucky beneficiaries of her culinary skills! Lorraine also enjoys hiking and exploring nature. She’s a friendly person who loves to chat with others, and she’s always looking for ways to help out in her community.