The Benefits of Sage in You Life

Where did the practice originate? Burning sage — also known as smudging — is an ancient spiritual ritual.Smudging has been well established as a Native American cultural or tribal practice, although it isn’t practiced by all groups.We have the traditions of many Native American peoples to thank for its use. This includes the Lakota, Chumash, Cahuilla, among others.Many other cultures around the world share similar rituals.Read on to learn more about the benefits of burning sage and how you can use it to improve your overall well-being.

1. It may be purifyingThe most-used types of sage have antimicrobial properties. This means they keep infectious bacteria, viruses, and fungi at bay.White prairie sage (Artemisia ludoviciana) is both antimicrobial and antibacterial. White sage (Salvia apiana) is also antimicrobial. And both have been shown to repel insects.Beliefs that burning sage clears out spiritual impurities, pathogens, and even insects have been fundamental to the practice of smudging.

2. It may help relieve the symptoms of some conditionsIt turns out that sage may help clear the air of lots more than bugs and bacteria.Though scientifically unproven, burning sage is thought to release negative ions. This is said to help neutralize positive ions.Common positive ions are allergens like:pet danderpollutiondustmoldIf this is the case, burning sage may be a blessing for those with asthma, allergies, bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions. But inhaling the smoke during the smudging can aggravate any respiratory condition. Wait until the smoke clears before going into the room.