Californian White Sage - 8-10 cm

Its scientific name is Salvia Apiana; it comes from the Latin salvare - to heal. It grows in the South-West of the United States, mainly in California, and the North-West of Mexico. It's a well-known medicinal plant. Most of its properties can be found in the leaves which absorb the energy of the sun to produce lots of essential oils. It gives off a pleasant and relaxing scent.

In Celtic Europe, druids would use it in order to increase their wisdom and during healing and protection rituals. Many Native American cultures from the west coast of the US would also make use of the plant to purify body and mind; leaves were burnt and the resulting white smoke served to bless and cleanse people as well as objects.

How to use it:

This purification ritual is a universal practise. It's said to enhance mental clarity, joy and calmness.

1. Use a heat resistant container such as an abalone shell. Place it on top of an appropriate support or stand and take a feather or a fan.

2. Light the sage bundle, preferably with a match. Let the leaves burn for a few seconds, and then blow the flame. Be careful, the leaves can easily be blown away.

3. Go through each room and guide the scented smoke with the feather or fan towards the place you would like to purify.

4. Wait until the sage bundle goes out. According to Indian beliefs, sage will carry on burning until purification is over.