Smudging is a tradition, common to many First Nations, which involves the burning of one or more natural medicines (plants) gathered from the earth. The four medicines (plants) commonly used by First Nations’ are tobacco, sage, cedar and sweetgrass. The most common medicines (plants) used in a smudge are sage and sweetgrass. The natural plants are gathered annually and used with no additives or chemicals.
Smudging has been passed down from generation to generation. There are many ways and variations on how a smudge is done. Historically, Métis and Inuit people did not smudge; however, today many Métis and Inuit people have incorporated smudging into their lives. Through the guidance of cultural advisors, we are told the reasons why smudging is practiced.