The Benefits of Smudging: How This Ancient Ritual Supports Modern Wellbeing

In our fast-paced, hyper-connected world, it’s easy for our minds and our spaces to feel overwhelmed. Smudging – the act of burning dried herbs – has long been used as a way to pause, purify and reset.   This ancient practice has deep roots in many cultures: from Ancient Greece, where priests burned herbs and resins to heal the sick, to Buddhist monks who use smoke to guide their mediation to Native American traditions where smoke cleansing is used in ceremony as a way to purify and cleanse people, spaces and objects.  In fact, some hospitals now acknowledge the cultural and emotional benefits of this practice - smudging services are available at Mayo Clinic in Florida and Wisconsin with plans to expand to Arizona and Minnesota.

But did you know smudging can also purify the air in your space?  For example, white sage is antimicrobial and white prairie sage has both antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. The negative ions released during burning may help neutralize allergens and irritants like pet dander, dust and mold which may be beneficial for those with asthma, allergies or other respiratory conditions.

Additional Benefits of Smudging:

·      Medicinal smoke from specific herbs has been shown to reduce bacterial count, air pollutants and allergens; there is data indicating hospitals have used medicinal smoke in an effort to prevent contagion

·      Smudging may promote feelings of relaxation and comfort, alleviate stress and anxiety; possibly due to thujone, a compound found in white sage and white prairie sage, that can be mildly psychoactive when burned and may provide mood and stress support

·      It’s been used as a tool with mediation practices, helping focus and energetic grounding

·      Smudging has aromatherapy benefits that may uplift moods or soothe the senses

·      Smudging has insect repellent benefits and has been used to help clear parasites and bugs from domestic animals

Tips for Those Starting A Smudging Practice:

·      Choose sustainably sourced herbs and smudge bundles and/or resins (ex. white sage, sweetgrass, cedar, tobacco, frankincense and myrrh); avoid overharvested or endangered species unless you know the source is ethical

·      Always open a window during and after smudging – for those using smudging as part of a spiritual practice, the negative energy needs a way out of your space

·      Avoid inhaling smoke directly as it can irritate the respiratory tract

·      Use a fire-safe vessel such as a seashell, ceramic or clay bowl to hold your smudge bundle and catch falling ash

·      And finally, pair your smudge bundle with an intention – it grounds the practice and invites mindful presence

Whether you’re beginning your day with intention or simply looking to purify the air in your space, smudging offers a beautiful and grounding practice. 

Con much amor,

Christina

Founder, Casa + Jardin

References:

·       Smudging Brings Comfort to Native American Patients at Mayo Clinic

·       10 Benefits of Burning Sage, How to Get Started and More

·       Sacred Herb Bundles For Energy Cleansing by Kiera Fogg

·       The Healing Power of Smudging by Rodika Tchi