How to Make a Smudge Stick

The use of smudge sticks is a common custom in many Native American tribes. They are used to get rid of negative energy in your home. Easily made from herbs and other plants, they have a nice smell when burned.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Branches of rosemary, white sage and pine or juniper.
• Colored cotton twine
• Sharp scissors

1. Gather all your materials together in one place. You will need branches of rosemary, sage and pine or juniper.

2. Trim all your herbs and plants into lengths of 6 to 8 inches.

3. Cut a piece of twine long enough to wrap a good size bundle from top to bottom

4. Put your herbs and branches together to form a loose pile and hold them in your hand. Make sure all the stems face the same direction.

5. Wrap the twine around the tips of the branches a couple of times to hold them securely. Then bind the bundle in a criss-cross pattern to form a stick.

6. Continue wrapping until you reach the end and wind the twine tightly around the stems. Tie a knot and trim the excess twine.

7. Let the smudge stick dry for a week or two so it will burn well.

8. To use, light it and gently shake over a fireproof container to put out the flame, but let it smoke.

Tips & Warnings

• Smudge sticks look and smell great when displayed in a bowl or basket.
• They make great gifts.
• Do not let children play with or light smudge sticks.
• Do not use around people or animals with asthma or respiratory problems.

Resources

• sage
• stick