10 Facts About Smudge Sage
Native Indians used sage during rituals to heal, bless and expel negative energy.
Those unfamiliar with the art of burning sage may consider it as odd or pagan related, when in fact the rite of burning incense is mentioned several times in he bible.
Psalms 141:2 and Leviticus 16:12–13, are testament to the goodness of natural herbs and incense burning.
Now that we’ve cleared the misconception, lets talk sage!
Fact 1
What is sage and where does it come from?
Common sage or “Salvia Officinalis” is a perennial evergreen native to the Mediterranean — and naturalized throughout the world, is known for it’s healing quality.
Salvia comes from the Latin world ‘salvere’ (meaning to heal).
Common sage can be used for cooking, seasoning, and medicinal purposes including memory loss, gas, arthritis, gout and strengthening the immune system.
Household, or aka, common sage, is typically not used for clearing energy as seen during smudging.
Fact 2
What type of sage is used during smudging?
White sage leaves, or Salvia Apiana is used for smudging.
Although several variations are available: Mountain, Lavender, Blue and Juniper. — typically White Sage is common among sage-burning enthusiasts.
Fact 3
How does smudging work?
Smudge sage works by shifting the air element (metaphysics) while expelling negative energy (aromatherapy).
In lament terms, smudge-sage can improve your air quality by reducing bacteria, pollen, mold, or pet dander found inside your home or space.
Fact 4
Where can I purchase smudge sage?
Most online markets or any health food store carry smudge sticks.
Fact 5
What does science say about smudging?
Unlike chemical air purifiers which only mask smells, studies show burning sage removes over 90% of the bacteria in the air.
Fact 6
What can I expect during the process of smudging?
You should immediately notice a calmness or what some describe as a mood elevation.
Fact 7
What are additional benefits besides burning or ingesting sage?
White Sage is typically not used for consumption, meaning it should not be ingested.
Common or household sage, lets say brewed in a tea, has been traditionally used for the treatment of digestive and circulatory disturbances, bronchitis, asthma, angina, depression, excessive sweating and many other ailments.
*research side effects before consumption.
Fact 8
Is sage available in an oil?
Yes. Sage essential oil can be burned using an oil warmer or when mixed with a base oil, such as olive or grapeseed, can be applied directly to the skin for conditions like Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating).
Fact 9
How much does it cost? Is it affordable?
Pricing depends on the size. Anywhere from $5 to $20 is usually the standard for one smudge stick.
lThe essential oil can range from $10 for one-third of an ounce — to $200 for sixteen ounces.
Fact 10
White Sage is a natural insect repellant.
Insects & rodents hate the smell of sage — With it’s natural pesticide qualities, the smell diffused from your sage stick not only purifies your personal space, but also rids it of pests.
For additional questions regarding sage and other holistic benefits consult a Naturopathic Doctor.
References:
Web MD https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-504/sage
Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine by Mohsen Hamidpour, Rafie Hamidpour and Mina Shahlarihttps://globaljournals.org/GJMR_Volume13/1-Chemistry-Pharmacology.pdf
