Smudging Fundamentals A How to...

Smudge sticks are really bundled of materials then dried and burned for purification and spiritual or ceremonial use. Originally used in Native American traditions, modern use is for purification and to bless spaces, objects or people and objects. A bit of ritual into the everyday. We can set intentions to affect our day. After researching plants in my local vicinity I foraged in Southern Minnesota and put plants together that served specific purposes of intention and energy. Eastern Red Cedar branches and berries are used in both medicine and spiritual practice. Spiritually Cedar is purifying, healing and provides protection. The Midwest also includes fields of Clover, Sweet Praire Grass, Staghorn Sumac and Pine to incorporate into my smudges.

Smudges can have antimicrobial properties depending on material used (Cedar Berries are antiviral, antibacterial, antimicrobial and anti fungal). This means they keep infectious bacteria, viruses, and fungi at bay. Also, smudging has long been used to connect to the spiritual realm or enhance intuition. Traditionally burning smudge is done to create a healing state or to reflect spirituality. Smudging can also be used as a ritual tool to rid your space of negativie energies and set intention. You can smudge people, spaces or objects. "The Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that medicinal smoke could almost completely eliminate bacteria in the air within a confined space. One hour of burning medicinal smoke reduced airborne bacteria by 94%, and the purifying effects lasted for 24 hours in a closed room."

How to Smudge: Hold the tip of the smudge stick at a 45-degree angle in an open flame. When the smudge catches, blow out the flame letting the herbs smolder and smoke rise while you gently fan the smoke throughout the space. Hold the smudge stick over a fire-safe ceramic bowl or abalone shell or plate etc. to catch any ashes. Place the smudge stick in a fire-safe bowl away from anything flammable to slowly burn itself out or place the lit end under running water for a few seconds, then lay it somewhere the herbs can breathe and dry out thoroughly. Hey, this is litterally playing with fire. Be careful. Be responsible. Smudge at your own risk.

Red Eastern Cedar: To consecrate and purify the creation of space. Repels negative energy and burned to attract money and boost psychic abilities.