White Sage is burned in smudging ceremonies to drive out bad spirits, feelings, or influences, and also to keep bad spirits from entering the area where a ceremony takes place. To smudge, light the bundle, and set it before you on a heat resistant plate. Then, rub your hands in the smoke, gather the smoke, and bring it over yourself as if washing your body. As the aromatic herbal smoke surrounds you, you have entered into the relationship with the herbs and the unseen spirits of the ritual. There are many varieties of sage, and most have been used in smudging. The botanical name for "true" sage is Salvia (e.g. Salvia officinalis, Garden Sage, or Salvia apiana, White Sage). It is interesting to note that Salvia comes from the Latin root salvare, which means "to heal." There are also varieties of sage which are of a species separate from Salvin Artemusia Sage makes a perfect house-warming gift. It can be used to clear away the energies of the previous occupants. It’s a wonderful ritual to practice when moving into a new home. – use with joy!
