How to make a smudge stick

A smudge stick is a bundle of dried herbs, most commonly white sage or cedar. Smudging comes from Native American traditions and is believed to be a way to purify and clear negative energy. It is often used to invoke positive energy in a particular environment, but can also be used to clear negative energy from one’s body. If spiritual stuff isn’t really your cup of tea, you can always use smudging stick for their pleasant scent when burnt. Read more below to find out how to make your own bundle.

Smudge sticks are really easy to make. Basically, all you need is sage or cedar branches and cotton or hemp twine (Native people use red colored twine for its spiritual power). I found interesting to learn that in Native American traditions, when you take something from nature you need to ask (the plant) for permission. It is a custom to leave a small gift in place of what you take, for example a small portion of tobacco or a piece of your hair.

Take your cuttings and form an easy to wrap bundle. Tie a knot on one of the bundle’s ends and wrap your twine around it a couple times. Then keep wrapping until your reach the other end. Wrap a few more times and tight your final knot. Make sure the twine is not too tight as the bundle won’t burn well.

Now you can create a little sanctuary in your house!

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