How to Make Sage Smudge Sticks
Smudge sticks are used in traditional Native American ceremonies to purify people and places. They are used in similar ceremonies in other cultures where herbs are burned for cleansing. Smudging can be used to counteract depression, anger or bitterness. If you would like to try smudging, it is very easy to make your own sage smudge sticks.
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Things You'll Need
- Sushi mat or newspaper sheet folded in half or a soft piece of leather about 12 x 18 inches
- Thin but sturdy string
- Garden clippers to cut the herbs
- Sage
Instructions
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1
Cut small branches of sage plants in about 7- to 10-inch lengths. How much you harvest depends on the size of the branches and how many sticks you want.
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2
Take a length of string and measure two and a half times the length of the branches.
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3
Hold it in your hand (left hand for righties, right hand for lefties), so that the ends of the branches are facing upwards and the tips downward. Your thumb and forefinger are in an upwards position. With your other hand, wrap a small amount around the base of the branches, tightly to hold them together. Begin in a downward motion to wrap around and around the branch. Pull the string tightly, but not too tightly; just be firm. When you get to the end, reverse direction and wrap again going back towards the ends of the branches. When you get back to the end; wrap the string around again and then tie the two ends together. Remember to keep it firm but not tight. If your sticks are rolled too tight they won’t dry properly or even if they do they will be hard to burn. If you roll too loosely, it will fall apart when dry.
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4
Take the wrapped branch and place it about a quarter way up on the sushi mat. In an upward motion, begin to roll the mat over the stick, so that inside the mat the stick is rolling. You needn’t roll really hard, just keep a firm, even pressure.
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5
Trim as needed to make it look neat.
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Place it on a screen or use flat baskets to dry. Drying time depends on the humidity but it should be about a week.
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Tips & Warnings
Never burn sticks near anyone with allergies or asthma.
