At a glance
- Common name
- White Sage
- Botanical name
- Salvia apiana
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Parts mentioned in historical records
- Leaves
- Traditional correspondences
- Air / Earth
Historical record
White sage is a distinct California species, not the Mediterranean culinary sage of European kitchens. In Native American traditions, white sage is a sacred ceremonial smudge.
Folklore and mythology
Native American peoples revere white sage as a sacred medicine plant given to cleanse mind, body, and spirit.
Tradition: Indigenous Americas Associated figures: Great Spirit
Ceremonial smudging is the practice most often recorded with this plant.
Mystical correspondences
Correspondences vary by tradition and source.
Safety first
Historical and spiritual associations do not establish that White Sage is safe or effective. Do not use this page as instructions for ingesting, smoking, inhaling, or applying White Sage.
For current safety information, check a health authority or ask a qualified clinician or pharmacist, especially during pregnancy or lactation, while taking medication, or with an allergy or health condition.