Benefits of Burning Sage

Sage has a long history in culinary arts, chefs know the earthy flavor well and use it to its fullest advantage in many dishes around the world. However, sage has an even longer history in ancient cultures for a very different reason. Burning sage has been used in Native American cultures as a spiritual practice that removes negative energy. This is a sacred ceremony called smudging and is performed by elders and spiritual leaders. However, the burning of sage has been practiced by cultures all over the world for many reasons on its own. The following is a list of the potential benefits of burning sage in your own home.

• Antimicrobial and antibacterial

Research has shown that burning sage removes bacteria and microbes from the air. The most popular types of sage have antimicrobial properties which means they keep infectious bacteria and viruses at bay. 

• Banishes smells

Love the smell of bacon in the morning but hate that lingering smell come dinnertime? Burning sage helps to dispel the lingering scents of food, pet odor, and musty spaces.

• Neutralizes positive ions

Common positive ion allergens are pet dander, pollution, dust, and mold. Burning sage is thought to release negative ions which is said to help neutralize the positive ions in your space.

• Connection to mindfulness

Burning sage is deeply rooted in ritualistic practices which date back centuries. The connection to the ritualistic nature of burning sage can help people achieve a sense of calm and clear-headedness.

• May help to dispel negative energy

Many cultures believe that the same connection to mindfulness is how to rid spaces of negative energy. The spiritual ritual of smudging helps to establish a positive environment for meditation. Changing your mindset is the first step in setting your intention and dedication to self improvement.

How to burn sage

There’s a bit more to burning sage than lighting it on fire and waving it about the room, it comes down to intentionality and purpose. Set your mind to the purpose of why you want to change your space or your mood. Open a window to let the smoke out along with all the bad energy. Hold a lighter or match under the sage bundle and twist until many parts of the bundle have begun to smolder. Set the bundle in front of you and waft the smoke over your head using your hand or a feather. You can concentrate on your own mind and body or you can continue onto the space around you. Gently wave the bundle in front of you, walking from room to room, concentrating on the upper corners where smells like to linger. Lay the smoldering bundle onto a safe container like an abalone shell or a glass bowl. Let it continue to smoke and burn out on its own.