Burning Sage...Does it works?

An ancient practice developed by indigenous peoples, burning sage—also known as "smudging"—has been traditionally used to help clear negative energy, but sage smudging is becoming more popular as practitioners continue to seek out new ways to relax, stay focused, and combat everyday stress. Those who engage in these cleansing rituals claim that burning dry sage can help clear the air and promote mindfulness.

So, what is sage?

Sage is an aromatic plant that's long been used for both medical and culinary purposes. Americans probably recognize the herb for its use in stuffing around the holidays, but this leaf does more than add flavor to your cooking.

While sage has deep historical roots, that doesn't mean it isn't relevant in modern medicine. According to recent studies, sage has powerful antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory qualities, and researchers are currently exploring sage as a natural treatment for a whole host of issues, including depression, dementia, obesity, lupus, heart disease, and cancer.

Dried sage, especially white sage, has been traditionally used by Native Americans for a whole host of benefits, most specifically as a method of purification, which is often what we think of when we hear the word "smudging."Smudging, however, is an English term used to describe the process, and most Native American groups have their own unique words to explain the practice.

Smudging is the process of burning dried plants or other natural elements and then using the smoke to cleanse themselves, objects, or even places. "Usually the dried plants are burned over a hot coal placed in a large shell or on the ground. The person places both hands over the smoke, takes the smoke within her hands, and beginning with her head and continuing downward, 'washes' her entire body with the smoke.

"This ancient Native American practice continues to be used today, and—as it gains more popularity in mainstream culture—it's important to honor and respect those cultural roots for anyone interested in smudging.

What are the benefits of burning sage?

Unfortunately, there isn't much scientific research on the subject. One study discovered that the use of medicinal smokes such as sage resulted in a 94 percent reduction in airborne bacteria. There's also research pointing to the possibility that smoke-based remedies are often absorbed more efficiently by the body.

Belief in intention

So even if you're on the fence about whether or not burning sage can purify the air, its stress-relieving benefits can be totally great for your health. This, helps provide a "grounding effect" that helps you relax and focus your thoughts. "Rituals and routines can help calm us by bringing order and predictability to your life. So whether you believe sage itself has mystical qualities or not, the ritual will almost certainly reduce tension. Whether you're smudging for spiritual reasons or simply to relax, engaging in this mindful practice can be calming and centering. Mindful meditation can actually change your brain and help you handle stress, so if burning sage helps you relax and enter a more focused brain space, then it's totally worth it.

How to Burn Sage

Ready to engage in the practice? It's fairly simple, and it's similar to the practice of burning incense.

You'll want to make sure to use a heat-proof bowl to hold your smudge stick. Once you’re ready to engage, light the end of the sage bundle until it starts to smoke. Be sure to light the sage evenly, and—after letting it burn for a few seconds—the flame should go out on its own. (If it doesn’t, blow it out gently.)

Burning sage is a very mindful practice, I recommend repeating your intention throughout the ritual almost like a prayer. Then, you can carry your smoking sage throughout your house to clear your space—using the bowl to catch any ashes, of course—or carefully move it at a safe distance around your body. Be sure to crack any windows or doors and visualize getting rid of any negative energy to help focus your thoughts.

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