Whether the season is summer, spring, fall or winter, it is a good idea to clean the air in your home regularly to get rid of germs and all the other unhealthy things you don’t want your family to breathe in. One great way of cleaning the air around you is by burning sage. This practice has been around for hundreds of years, but many people have discounted it in the past as an old wive’s tale. However, recent research has proven that you can clear bacteria from the air by burning sage herb.
How Burning Sage Herb Works
Research has proven that burning sage removes a whopping 94% of bacteria in the air. When the researchers tested the air a day later, it was still clean. The best method for this is called “smudging.” You take a bunch of dried sage, twist it into a stick shape, then light one end of the “stick” on fire and then blow it out. The resulting smoke “smudges” the air in the room and the properties in the smoke kill most of the existing bacteria in the air. White sage is preferred and you can find sage burners for burning it.
Unlike chemical air “purifiers” that only mask the smells in the air, sage is 100% natural and will not cause allergic reactions for people with scent sensitivities. It also smells great! The research found that the smoke needs about an hour to cleanse the air. So make sure you burn enough sage a couple to last that long. Though you can buy ready-made sage sticks, some people prefer to grow their own herbs for this practice. If you have the room to grow your own, try it out.
The Importance of Clean Air
There are many reasons why people are concerned about the air quality in their homes. The primary reason is health related. Poor air quality can cause:
- asthma
- coughing
- respiratory infections
- headaches
- dizziness
- fatigue
- lung cancer
- heart problems
Don’t panic just yet! The chronic health issues mentioned happen as a result of long term exposure to polluted air. But, some of the health issues you or your family are currently experiencing could be a result of the poor air quality in your home. Burning sage is a cost effective and natural way to clean the air and put your worries to rest.
FAQ’s About Burning Sage
- Where can I find a sage stick?
You should be able to find them at your local natural food store or essential oils store. If both places don’t carry them, the staff should know where you can buy them. - How much dried sage should I have to try this?
You will need about a fistful of sage to try the smudging method. Think of it as 2 servings of spaghetti and measure it the same way with your hand. - Is it safe for my kids and pets?
Burning sage herb is safe for both kids and pets. Your pet may not appreciate being in the same room since their sense of smell is much more heightened than ours, but it will not harm them.
