Burning sage — also known as cleansing — is an ancient spiritual ritual. Certain types of sage have antimicrobial properties and may provide additional benefits.
The phenolic compounds in sage may have an antioxidant effect and reduce free radicals. Rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid are two compounds in sage that are particularly associated with an antioxidant effect.
Types of Sage for Smudging
The plants available will greatly depend on where you live, so I’ll focus on those that are popular and easy to find. Before purchasing a bundle, make sure that the plants are ethically sourced to avoid overharvesting. The way the plants are collected also matters – look for vendors who treat the plants and the land with respect.
- White sage: It’s the most common type of sage for smudging. This plant is sacred and has been proven to have antimicrobial properties. Use it to remove negative energy, and cleanse spaces and sacred items.
- Blue sage: The second most popular sage type for smudging, blue sage is thought to attract positive energy and general abundance. An excellent support for meditation practitioners and for those looking for creative inspiration. Can also be used to repel insects.
- Desert sage: This sacred plant is used when you need to purify and protect your home. It eliminates negative influences and may inspire inner strength.
- Black sage: It removes unwanted energy and brings clarity of mind and introspection. It’s also used for inner healing or to induce vivid and lucid dreams. Be sure to buy Black Sage from trusted sellers because the plants used for the actual bundles may vary from seller to seller.
- Lavender sage: Don’t confuse it with the actual lavender plant! They may look alike but they are different. Burning lavender sage will bring a sense of calm and peace to your home. It may help lower anxiety levels and bring feelings of love and happiness
- BUT ALSO you can cleanse your home with,
Palo Santo
Traditionally, palo santo is widely used to repel mosquitos. It’s also said to deter ants, termites, and flies. Reduce pain Another supposed benefit is pain relief. People use palo santo to treat different types of pain, including: arthritis, headache, throat pain
Juniper Cleansing and Purification: Juniper is known for its purifying properties and has been used for centuries in various cultures for cleansing rituals. Burning juniper branches or dried juniper berries can help clear negative energy from a space, person, or object, leaving behind a sense of freshness and renewal. Juniper is believed to have protective properties that can ward off negative energies, influences, or entities. Smudging with juniper can create a protective shield around a person, space, or object, promoting a sense of safety and security.
Rosemary clears negativity, promotes confidence and invigorates the mind. An ancient practice, smudging of herbs for cleansing can be seen in all factions of history and cultures.
Cedar is burned to smudge away bad energies; we cleanse our body, mind, and souls in the smoke and with it send our prayers to Creator. Cedar bough is often placed over door archways and used as protection against negative energies entering your environment. Cedar is also grounding.
There are many other Herbs you can use to cleanse your space. Each plant has its own chemical and energetic properties, but you can also combine them with sage.