How to Make a Smudge Stick
Smudging is a way to purify and clear negative energy and is often used to invoke positive energy in a particular environment, but can also be used to clear negative energy from one's body. A smudge stick can be made from pine, juniper, tobacco and a variety of other herbs and plants. The most common materials are cedar and sage.
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Instructions
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Gather small branches of cedar and sage, always asking the plant for permission, before cutting. It is a Native American 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.
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2
Choose the twine you will use to wrap the smudge stick. Use a natural material like cotton or hemp, and when possible select a red colored twine. Red is the most common color used in Native American ceremonies for its spiritual power.
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Lie out your cuttings and form an easy to wrap bundle. Because cedar tends to shed and burn a bit faster than sage, it is best to bundle the cedar in the middle with the sage outside.
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Tie a loop on one end of the twine and pass the other end through the loop to make a slipknot. Pick up the herb pile and place the slipknot loop around the bottom of the stems, pulling tight.
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Wrap the twine around the smudge stick until you have reached the top. Be sure to keep a moderate tension. If the twine is too tight the smudge stick will not burn well, however if it is too loose your smudge stick will fall apart. When you have reached the top, reverse the direction, wrap again to the bottom, and tie a knot.
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Tips & Warnings
It is possible to buy cedar and sage for making a smudge stick when out of season or if these plants do not grow in your area, however it is always best to collect the materials yourself.
Never burn poisonous or toxic plants. If you are experimenting with other types of plants to make a smudge stick, be sure to research the dangers first.
