Best Sage for Smudging

Sage is one of the most potent tools in your spiritual arsenal. From removing negative energy and purifying the air to strengthening spiritual tools and aiding meditation, there is nothing sage cannot do. 

There are different types of sage that have different appearances, uses, scents, and even safety profiles. So whether you need purification, cleansing, protection, or healing during meditation rituals, there is a member of the sage family that can help.

White sage is the type most commonly found in dried sage bundles in stores. It has pale leaves and an aromatic smell when burned. 

Blue sage is less common. In general, it is considered to have a sweeter aroma than white sage. Black sage, often called mugwort, may refer to A. douglasiana, Artemisia nova, or S. mellifera. 

Black sage has green leaves that can darken during dry spells, making it look very different from blue or white sage.

What is the Best Sage to Burn in Your Home?

Using White Sage

White sage is considered a sacred plant by the Chumash people. The smudge sticks of this sage are burned to purify and cleanse an area.

When you need something to help you get rid of negative energies and purify your space, white sage is an effective way to do it. 

 

The leaves burn well on their own, so you don’t have to put them on charcoal. You can purify your sacred space or home by lighting a white sage leaf or the smudge stick tip and placing it in a fireproof container.

Carry it clockwise around the area you want to cleanse and use a feather to fan the smoke so that it reaches all corners. Pay special attention to cabinets and dark areas. 

Ensure you end your cleansing session with the front door open and let all that negative energy flow out of your home.

Using Blue Sage

Blue Sage, also known as Desert Sage, is often used in the same way as white sage to protect and cleanse. It’s less pungent and its calming aroma and fresh nature make it very useful in healing and abundance rituals. 

Since it is less overpowering and more relaxing than a white sage in small spaces, it’s also a superb choice for purifying and setting up meditation rooms.

 

Blue sage can be used to alleviate illnesses. Put a white or blue candle with angelica oil and engrave the name of the patient in the wax. Put it on your altar or dedicated sacred space. Light the tip of the blue sage stick and direct the smoke over the area. Repeat your wish for the person to heal or recite a simple mantra such as:

• Lend your power healing herbs,
• In this hour, drive away the disease.
• Release all pain with your strength
• And restore [patient’s name].
• Light the candle and let it burn.

Check out What to Say When Smudging a House

Using Black Sage

The different types of mugwort are often referred to as “black sage”. These are similar to Artemisia vulgaris, although they don’t contain as much thujone, a hallucinogenic compound. 

Nonetheless, black sage is extremely useful for trance work, shamanic travel, dream magic, inner healing, as well as protection during astral travel. Anytime you need to look inward or access other areas of consciousness, black sage can be helpful. 

 

Before clearing your mind and getting into a comfortable position, spread the smoke of a smudge stick from black sage over yourself. You can use chants, vibrations, drums, or your preferred technique to help your mind access the astral realms more easily. Trust the smoke of black sage to keep you safe on the go and see where it takes you.

Using Lavender Sage

A sun-loving plant, the lavender sage grows on the southern California coast. It takes its name from its clusters of purple flowers: the leaves are round, green, and scaly. 

Lavender sage is not related to the lavender flower. However, it resembles lavender physically (particularly when in bloom) and has a clean, floral scent. 

Lavender sage is well-known for its sedating, peaceful, and calming effects. This sage plant relieves fear and inspires love. Due to its natural beauty and irresistible smell, a lavender sage is an excellent choice for your attraction spells.

 

Is Palo Santo better than Sage?

Palo Santo means ‘sacred wood,’ best known for its ability to add positivity to your space, while sage eliminates negativity.

 Palo Santo is best for daily purification because it simply promotes positive energy while cleansing the air at the same time.

 

Since Palo Santo doesn’t burn as easily and needs to be re-ignited for large rooms, it is best to use it for cleaning and purifying small rooms or yourself.

Can You Use Regular Sage for Smudging?

Many have wondered whether it is okay to use regular sage – like the one found in turkey garnish and breakfast sausages – for smudging. The answer is yes! 

Common sage, also referred to as garden sage, is closely related to white sage and shares many of the same beneficial properties as white sage. 

 

Common sage is native to Europe and its folkloric and medicinal uses go back to the Bronze Ages. For those who are involved in European witchcraft traditions, it may make more sense to work with common sage than any North American variety.

The major benefit of common sage is that it grows in several climates and is available fresh and dry in most stores. Not everyone agrees that the smell of burnt common sage is pleasant.

Also, the sage plant must be dry enough to burn effectively. If burning sage isn’t working for you, remember that you can still use the plant to bless and cleanse your space.

Best Practices When Burning Sage:

• Pick the herb that catches your eye and regularly work with it to access its deep natural wisdom. 
• Make sure to smudge in a well-ventilated area. 
• Always use sage with a fireproof container or bowl and place it on a flat, heat-resistant surface. 
• Make sure the embers and ashes are collected safely. 
• Keep out of the reach of pets and children. 
• Consult your healthcare practitioner before using it if you’re pregnant, asthmatic, or have other breathing problems. 
• Never leave the lit smudge stick unattended.

What is the Best Kit For Smudging Sage?

A smudge bundle or smudge kit is a collection of sacred items for smudging. The Orgone Energy Smudging Kit contains:

• White sage
• Abalone shell
• California Turkey Feather
• Wooden stand

The sacred items in this smudging kit have been used to smudge for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. 

These sacred elements form a complete kit ideal for anyone who wants to embrace their spirituality, purify themselves, or protect themselves.

If you already have sage at home, you can always simply purchase our Abalone Shell to incorporate all the elements of Mother Nature into your home.