Wands

Smudges and Smudging

Yu ni ne-un-ai; ji-bai oke ni
ki-pi-ai; ni mus se-chu?
[Here I am; Spirit Land,
I am coming; must I
pass away?]

Burning herbs is a sacred practice used for prayer and purification that is respected in most American Indian traditions. It is called smudging or smoking, although the intent is not to inhale the smoke or burn up the herbs. Instead you bathe in the smoke and pray with it.

Once ignited, the herbs are not supposed to flame; they should slowly smoke. The aromatic fumes from their volatile oils enhance the smudge. Because smudging involves heat and burning, a fireproof clay pot or large shell, such as that of abalone or sea clam; is a good accouterment to use as a protective vessel.

Sage is a purifier, used to banish all troubles and bad spirits. It cleanses an area and sweeps away negativity. On the other hand, sweet grass welcomes the good spirits and good energies back into and area or gathering. These two herbs are often burned during healing prayers and ceremonies, helping to connect with spirit helpers. Burned during funerals and death feasts, their smoke carries prayers and sadness upward to the ancestors’ spirits.

To smudge, ignite your smudge stick or sage wand and gently blow on it to extinguish the flame and enhance the smoking. If you are doing this with other people, position everyone in a circle. Move around clock-wise and pass or carry the smudge stick so that you encircle each person. Smudge from head to toe; often people use their cupped hand to draw the smoke into specific body areas. Some people use a feather fan to distribute the aromatic smoke to everyone.