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Cleansing and Inviting
Many people were taught that white sage equals cleansing, (I am guilty of this thought process as well and have since changed my practice behind this ) but historically this is more nuanced.
White Sage
Traditionally used by several Indigenous Nations in North America (though practices vary greatly by Nation), white sage has been used in sacred ceremonies for purification, prayer, and spiritual preparation. Because of its cultural significance and concerns about overharvesting, many practitioners who aren’t part of those traditions choose other herbs instead.
Some modern practitioners describe white sage as creating a kind of “blank slate” by clearing away unwanted energy, but that interpretation isn’t universal.
I actually grown my own white sage, and have used it many times in my practice, but I have a new way of thinking on this use…as I no longer believe it’s the best choice in cleansing.
Cedar
While I do have Native American roots, I still only use White Sage in very VERY important rituals and cleansings. However, I have gotten to where I even rarely use it now because I've been trying to find more herbs, etc that are native to where I live. That would most definitely be cedar or rosemary! We all have cedar allergies so I try not to buyn it (just essential oil only use) but we love rosemary! I agree, I don't think the plants themselves should be closed off for the same reasons you state.