Burning herbs and activating the release of smoke is an ancient practice ceremoniously used in rituals around the world to purify spaces and is often burned in reverence to ancestors and their contributions to the lineage of the owner. Smudging is commonly believed to deepen your intuition and clear spiritual and emotional negativity and strengthen the presence of ancestors. Scientifically, studies have shown that the act of burning herbs neutralizes pollutants in the environment and reduces negative ions and airborne bacteria in the air.
 
Botanical Name: Eriodictyon Californicum
 
Known as "holy herb" Yerba Santa is a medicinal herb historically used to loosen mucus and other chest related ailments when consumed. When burned, it releases a lightly sweet fragrance. It's glossy dark amber streaks are from the resin of the yerba santa plant and give a mysterious appearance. Burn to evoke love, empowerment, purity of thoughts and emotions and the release of emotional hurt. 
 
-Make sure the room you are smudging in is well ventilated 
-As a health precaution, be mindful of smoke intake if you have asthma, have respiratory issues or if infants are present. 
-Do not leave burning smudge stick unattended
-Smudge with pure intentions and do what resonates with you and be clear on what you want to achieve. 
-Smudging is a ritual, something done repetitively and consistently, to achieve a desired result. Keep that in mind as you develop your own personal practice and routine of smudging for self care.