Traditional Medicine: Sage
Sage is one of our sacred medicines growing in Eeyou Istchee and other regions. There are two types—one is soft after drying and the other hard; both are used for smudging but should not be combined. Once gathered and dried, sage can be used for smudging in our homes, at work and in our ceremonies.
Combined with prayers, smudging brings us closer to the Creator. The smoke helps purify and protect our bodies, spirits and living spaces. Smudging also improves mood, alleviates stress and insomnia, and repels negative energies, including viruses.
Smudging
Smudging Your Home With Sage
1. Begin by saying a prayer aloud or silently, telling the Creator your reasons for smudging. Place the sage in a smudge bowl (commonly a shell) and light it. Let the flames die out so the leaves produce a fragrant smoke.
2. Using your hand or a feather, push smoke into all rooms in your home. Start at the front door and move clockwise around the house, allowing the smoke to drift into closets and cabinets. Follow the same procedure in the basement so that your entire living space is smudged.
3. Once finished, leave sage in the smudge bowl and store in a safe place.
Smudging An Individual With Sage
1. Begin by saying a prayer aloud or silently, telling the Creator your reasons for smudging. Place the sage in a smudge bowl (commonly a shell) and light it. Let the flames die out so the leaves produce a fragrant smoke.
2. Using your hand or a feather, guide smoke towards the individual, from head to foot. Individuals may cup the smoke in their hands and bring it to their bodies from head to foot, inhaling if desired.
3. Once finished, leave sage in the smudge bowl and store in a safe place.
Precautions when using Traditional Medicine
As with any medicine, exercise caution. Follow instructions and be careful when lighting the sage in the smudge bowl. Do not use with people with breathing problems. Please ask a local knowledge keeper about moon time protocols.
In response to COVID-19, we wanted to share some of this knowledge with all Eeyouch and Eenouch so they can prevent and/or treat symptoms of COVID-19.
The White Spruce is a large coniferous evergreen tree that can be found in Whapmagoostui and along the coast
Sweetgrass is one of our sacred medicines, symbolizing healing and peace
The Tamarack has important medicinal uses.Its boughs, bark (and bare branches in fall and winter) can be used to make tea
Tobacco is used in hunting rituals, healing and sacred ceremonies in Eeyou/Eenou Istchee
