Sage smudging is very popular now, so you may or may not have heard of it, either way, sage is great to have around for many reasons. White Sage, (Salvia Apiana) is an evergreen shrub that grows across the United States, and is most prevalent in high altitude desert ecosystems.
In many ancient cultures, including Native American traditions, herbs were burned in the ritual cleansing of a physical space, objects or individuals. The idea is that by burning certain herbs in a space, the smoke generated attaches itself to the negative energy and as the smoke dissipates, so does the negative energy. This burning of herbs can also be used for individual cleansing, after a particularly energetically depleting day or experience, for example, or on crystals, or personal objects used in ritual to ensure that they are not holding any negative energy.
Native Americans are well known to have used the healing properties of sage to drive out negative energy and evil spirits. They also use it in ceremonies for blessings and prosperity. For generations, white sage has been used for purifying, cleansing, and protection and many consider the plant to be sacred. Native Americans have used white sage for its medicinal properties for centuries. Sage offers antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties to promote overall health and target emerging infections. It is also used as a diuretic and a stimulant. Tea made from sage has many healing properties.
According to tradition, all plants and animals have a spirit. The spirit of white sage is devoted to clearing, protection, and blessings. Tapping into the power of white sage will amplify any healing or clearing that you do on yourself or others.
As the bundle is burning and the smoke spirals, wafts, and begins to fill a space, it is cleansing. As you're burning white sage it’s important to express gratitude for the help of the plant's spirit as well as to express your intention for why you're burning sage in the first place.
In this very simply way, the energy of white sage, brings cleansing, protection, and blessings into the space it's burned in.
The smoke attaches to negative energies, and as the smoke then begins to dissipate it transforms those negative energies into universal energy. And so, your intention for cleansing, clearing and protection is fulfilled.
Keep a clear mind, body + spirit!