The only region where white sage naturally grows is in Southern California and northern Baja. Though it is illegal in California to pick plants from public lands, Native people have reported finding hillsides of white sage completely stripped.
Is it OK to buy white sage?
If you’re not a member of an Indigenous community, purchasing white sage, Palo Santo, or other sacred herbs and quickly Googling “how to smudge” will not make you qualified to do so. This is cultural appropriation, and it’s harmful to Native communities.
Is it unethical to burn white sage?
Because of all that complicated history of sage burning, when non-Native people use white sage to “smudge” their homes or other spaces, it infringes upon the cultural importance and authenticity of the ritual and prayer — simply, it’s cultural appropriation.
Are you not supposed to buy your own sage?
Even if, by some miracle, everyone in the entire packing-and-shipping process has clean energy, store-bought sage still wouldn’t be up to Indigenous standards. “Sage that’s used in smudging — prayer — should never be bought and sold,” Walker says.
Is white sage endangered in us?
Officially, white sage is not endangered, nor even threatened.
What religion uses sage?
While sage is commonly associated with smudging and several Native American, First Nations, Inuit or Métis cultures may use forms of sage that are local to their region, the use of sage is neither universal, nor as widespread as many believe.
Is it bad to burn sage?
As far as burning sage is concerned, it is generally safe to do so, even around children and pets. Just be aware of any possible respiratory conditions they might have. (They may not like the smell of burning sage.)
Is burning white sage cultural appropriation?
We apologize for perpetuating racism and causing harm to Indigenous Peoples by having made such a post. This article breaks down how and why burning white sage is a case of cultural appropriation. It also covers the overharvesting implications.
Why is white sage sacred?
White sage is burned for meditation, smudging and cleansing of spirit and dwelling. In some beliefs, white sage smoke is believed to provide a barrier that prevents negative spirits from entering the room in which the ceremony is being held.
Why do native Americans burn sage?
Here in North America, however, it has historically been used to cleanse the home. It is believed that burning sage can cleanse the air of harmful bacteria or any negative energies that might be in the space. Different tribes may use different types of sage, like buffalo sage, white sage or mountain sage.
What is the difference between white sage and regular sage?
The key distinction is in how the two species are used. While common sage is often used in cooking, white sage is more commonly used in incense rituals and as a fragrant plant. This is because white sage exudes a much more intense, tart and resinous scent. Another distinguishing feature is the leaves.
Is it disrespectful to use Palo Santo?
But wait — is using palo santo cultural appropriation? If you’re using it in a quasi-spiritual way without proper knowledge or training, yes, probably. Indigenous and Latin American people have developed a cultural heritage around many different types of herbal healing and spiritual ceremonies.
Whats going on with white sage?
The Evolution of White Sage Use
It is being sold in large quantities by many corporations including Walmart and Anthropologie, a retail clothing store. This use has pushed the plant to be over harvested and begin to become endangered.
Can I grow my own sage for smudging?
You can use a number of different herbs in smudging rituals, including common sage, lavender sage, cedar, pinon pine, juniper or rosemary. For many people, however, white sage is the only way to go. You can grow white sage from seedlings or cuttings, but it’s probably best for beginners to start from purchased plants.
What tribes use white sage?
The Cheyenne use the white sage in their Sun Dance and Standing Against Thunder ceremonies (Hart 1976). Other tribes who used white sage include the Arapaho, Comanche, Gros Ventre, Creek, Navaho, Tewa, and Ute (Nickerson 1966, Carlson and Jones 1939, Hart 1976, Thwaites 1905, Denig 1855, Elmore 1944, Robbins et al.
What does the Bible say about meditation?
The Bible mentions 23 occurrences of some translation of meditate: 19 of them appear in the Psalms, and of the 23, 20 refer specifically to meditating on the Lord in some way. We are told to meditate on his actions, law, or testimonies – all of which are found within his Word.
What the Bible Says About incense?
Incense was very common in the old testament and even up to today, some denominations still burn incense. Since the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the veil of the temple has been removed so it is no longer necessarily to burn incense as explained in Hebrews 9:11-24.
What does sage smell like?
There are many variations of sage. But ultimately, sage as a whole offers an earthy aroma with an herbaceous scent. Sometimes crisp and often with strong green notes and pairings, sage can come across strong to someone who has never smelled it before.
Can you smudge at night?
Smudging can be done at any time of day or night, whenever it is needed.
What are sages in the Bible?
The function of the sage is non-specific and the least institutionalised of leadership roles in Israel. It is a generic characteristic and not confined to one group of people. All persons skilled in some trait or profession possess wisdom of some sort: craftsmen, potters, builders, farmers (Isa 28:23–29).
Is smudging a religious practice?
Smudging serves a variety of functions in different Indigenous cultures. As a ritual event, it is considered significant to spiritual and theological beliefs, as are sweat lodges and sacred pipes in certain cultures. (See also Religion and Spirituality of Indigenous Peoples in Canada.)