Anisha Riggs
Burning sage incense is an ancient practice that has been used for thousands of years for cleansing, purification, and protection. White sage, or Salvia Apiana, is the most common variety of sage incense, known for its dense and leafy structure, which allows it to burn slowly and produce a lot of smoke—ideal for purifying large spaces. While sage is widely recognized for its cleansing properties, some people also believe it can induce a mild psychoactive effect, similar to a high. This belief is attributed to the presence of thujone, a psychoactive chemical found in sage that stimulates the central nervous system. However, the amount of thujone in sage is considered insufficient to induce powerful visions or a strong high. Other factors, such as individual sensitivity to the sage smell, synthetic perfumes in certain brands, or a placebo effect, may also contribute to the perceived sensation of getting high from burning sage incense.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Psychoactive properties | Thujone, a slightly psychoactive chemical found in sage, stimulates the central nervous system and can create hallucinations in large doses. |
| Medicinal properties | Sage has been used to improve sleep, soothe anxiety, lift mood, and treat digestive problems. |
| Cleansing properties | Sage is believed to cleanse negative energy and improve mood. |
| Aromatherapy | Sage incense can be used for aromatherapy, leaving a long-lasting fragrance. |
| Effects on mental state | Sage incense may induce meditative-like brainwaves and improve focus and memory. |
| Synthetic perfumes | Some synthetic perfumes in incense may induce a high similar to inhaling Sharpies. |
| Psycho-somatic | The feeling of being high may be psycho-somatic. |
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What You'll Learn
Psychoactive properties of sage incense
Burning sage incense has been associated with various benefits, including its ability to cleanse and purify spaces, improve sleep, soothe anxiety, enhance focus, and uplift mood. While the practice of burning sage is often linked to cultural and spiritual traditions, it is also believed to possess psychoactive properties that can influence one's mental state.
Thujone, a chemical compound present in sage, is known to be slightly psychoactive. Thujone stimulates the central nervous system, and in high doses, it can induce visions and hallucinations. However, the amount of Thujone in sage is typically not sufficient to trigger powerful visions. Instead, it is believed to enhance intuition and emotional perception, making it a favoured tool for healers during spiritual ceremonies and moments of introspection.
The act of burning sage, also known as smudging, releases fragrant smoke that is thought to dispel negative energy and promote positive vibes. This ritual has been practised for centuries by Native American tribes and continues to be valued for its ability to create a sacred and purified space. The smoke from burning sage is believed to have cleansing properties that extend beyond the physical realm, offering spiritual and emotional purification as well.
In addition to its traditional uses, burning sage incense has gained popularity for its therapeutic effects on the mind and body. The aroma of sage is associated with inducing a meditative state, reducing anxiety and stress, and promoting relaxation. Some people report experiencing a sense of mild euphoria or an altered mental state when burning sage incense, which may be attributed to the release of dopamine triggered by pleasant aromas.
While the psychoactive effects of sage incense are generally subtle, it is important to note that individual sensitivity, the quality of sage, and the presence of synthetic perfumes or other additives can influence the overall experience. As with any incense burning, ensuring proper ventilation and taking precautions to prevent inhalation of excessive smoke are recommended to avoid adverse effects.
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Synthetic perfumes in incense
Burning sage incense is believed to have several benefits, including cleansing, improving mood, and strengthening intuition. It is also said to have antimicrobial properties and is used to treat anxiety and depression.
When it comes to incense, synthetic fragrances are typically found in cheaper incense products. One way to identify synthetic incense is to look for incense sticks that are "dipped" or "hand-dipped". This means that the sticks, which are made with an odourless charcoal base, are dipped into fragrant oils to impart their scent. Synthetic incense is also often identified by its strong, perfume-like smell. Brands like HEM are usually synthetic, whereas sellers on platforms like Etsy may offer more natural options.
The use of synthetic perfumes in incense can be a concern for some, especially those who are sensitive to synthetic fragrances. However, for most people, synthetic incense is safe to use, provided that there is good ventilation in the room. Inhaling excessive smoke, whether from synthetic or natural incense, is generally not recommended.
While synthetic perfumes in incense can offer a wider range of fragrances and improved consistency, natural incense derived from plants like sage continues to be valued for its traditional significance, aromatic properties, and potential health benefits.
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Cleansing and purification
Burning sage incense is believed to have a range of benefits, from cleansing and purifying spaces and objects to improving physical and mental health.
Burning sage incense is an easy way to cleanse and purify your home, crystals, meditation cushion, and other objects. It is believed that the smoke from burning sage attaches to negative energies and drives them away, leaving a positive and sacred feeling in the space. This can be particularly useful for new or second-hand items with an unknown history, helping to bring peace of mind.
Physical and Mental Health Benefits
Sage has antimicrobial properties, which can help to ward off bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It can also help to relieve headaches, inflammation, digestive issues, depression, and sleep problems. The aroma of sage incense can also help to improve mental health by reducing stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation, and improving sleep.
How to Burn Sage Incense
To burn sage incense for cleansing and purification, first, set an intention for what you hope to achieve. Then, light the sage incense and let the flame blow out so that only the tips of the leaves are smoldering and releasing smoke. Use your hand, a feather, or a fan to waft the smoke over your body, from the feet upwards, or around the room, from the floor to the ceiling. Be sure to leave a window open to let the smoke escape and direct any negative energy out of your space. You can also use a bowl or shell to catch any falling ash.
Other Incense for Cleansing and Purification
While sage is one of the most popular incenses for cleansing and purification, other scents such as lavender, cinnamon, sandalwood, patchouli, and rose are also used for their therapeutic and aromatic properties. These incenses can help to create a calm and peaceful atmosphere, improve sleep, and enhance meditation practices.
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Thujone in sage
Thujone is a chemical compound that occurs in many plants, including common sage (Salvia officinalis). It is a ketone and a monoterpene that occurs predominantly in two forms: (−)-α-thujone and (+)-β-thujone. While the effects of thujone are still being studied, it is believed to have stimulating, mood-elevating effects at low doses. However, it is important to note that too much thujone can be harmful. High doses of thujone can cause seizures and damage the liver and nervous system.
The amount of thujone in sage varies depending on the species, time of harvest, growing conditions, and other factors. Common sage, or Salvia officinalis, contains significant amounts of thujone. This type of sage is often used in cooking and is a common ingredient in Mediterranean dishes. It is also used in herbal medicinal products, such as sage tea, which is legal to be sold as either food or medicine.
The practice of burning sage, also known as smudging, has been used for centuries by Native Americans and other cultures for its cleansing, purifying, and protective properties. White sage, or Salvia apiana, is the type of sage most commonly used for smudging. It is found in high desert ecosystems such as Mountain West and California. The emerging smoke from burning white sage is directed to areas or objects that need cleansing and purification.
While burning sage incense may have some psychological effects, it is unlikely that it will get you high. However, some people report feeling high or experiencing altered mental states when burning sage incense. This could be due to the psychotropic properties of certain types of sage, such as Diviners Sage (Salvia divinorum), which is known to be psychedelic. Additionally, some synthetic perfumes or scents in incense may have similar effects to huffing Sharpies.
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Health benefits of sage
Burning sage incense is believed to have psychotropic properties, potentially inducing a meditative state. However, it is unlikely to get you high in the traditional sense. Some people may experience a sensation of being high due to the aroma of sage, as certain varieties like "Diviner's Sage" are psychedelic.
Now, let's discuss the health benefits of sage:
Sage is an herb belonging to the mint family, packed with essential nutrients and compounds. Its scientific name is Salvia officinalis, and it is commonly known as garden sage or common sage. Here are some of its health benefits:
Nutritional Content:
Sage is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. It contains high levels of vitamin K and provides smaller amounts of magnesium, zinc, copper, and vitamins A, C, and E. These vitamins and minerals are essential for various bodily functions and maintaining overall health.
Antioxidant Properties:
Sage is rich in antioxidants, including various types of acidic compounds such as chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, rosmarinic acid, ellagic acid, and rutin. These antioxidants help combat free radicals, reducing the risk of cell damage and lowering the chances of developing serious health conditions like cancer.
Improves Cognitive Function:
Sage has been linked to improved cognitive function, particularly memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Multiple studies have shown that sage extract can benefit individuals with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease, resulting in improved cognitive measurements and reduced agitation. Additionally, sage may enhance memory and cognitive function in healthy individuals as well.
Lowers Cholesterol:
Consuming sage, especially in the form of tea, has been shown to lower "bad" LDL cholesterol levels while increasing "good" cholesterol. This is significant because high LDL cholesterol is a key risk factor for heart disease, affecting a significant portion of adults.
Anti-inflammatory Effects:
Sage exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can provide relief from inflammatory conditions such as a sore throat or sunburn. Additionally, its antimicrobial effects aid in killing plaque and cavity-causing bacteria, making it useful for oral health.
Other Benefits:
Sage is also believed to have mood-enhancing properties, potentially helping with anxiety and depression. It is traditionally used for spiritual cleansing and improving sleep quality. Furthermore, sage may offer benefits for skin health, aiding in combating signs of aging and improving overall skin appearance.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is possible to get high off of sage incense. Thujone, a slightly psychoactive chemical found in sage, stimulates the central nervous system and can create visions and hallucinations when consumed in large doses. However, the amount of Thujone in sage is typically not enough to induce powerful visions.
Burning sage incense is believed to have several benefits, including cleansing negative energy, improving mood, enhancing sleep, reducing anxiety, and improving memory and focus. It is also used for aromatherapy and as a natural air freshener.
To burn sage incense, light the end of a sage bundle with a match and blow it out quickly if it catches on fire. Direct the smoke around your body, specific objects, or spaces that you want to cleanse using your hand or cardboard. Always ensure that the incense is extinguished safely before leaving it unattended.
