Smudging sticks: Sacred Copal

🔬 Scientific studies – Antimicrobial effects

Some research has shown that the smoke of medicinal plants (including white, green or black sage, mugwort , rosemary and others ) can have a disinfecting effect on the ambient air.

Journal of Ethnopharmacology showed that fumigation with medicinal plants for one hour significantly reduced (up to 94%) the presence of certain aerosolized bacteria in the air, and that this effect persisted for up to 24 hours.

White or green (common) sage in particular contains compounds such as and thujone , which have antibacterial and antifungal properties.

🌿 Perceived effects – Energy and well-being

In the indigenous traditions of North America, white sage has been used for centuries to purify places, people, and energies .

Although these effects are not scientifically measurable, many people report:

• A feeling of mental clarity
• A calmer or more harmonious atmosphere
• An anchoring or refocusing ritual

• Eucalyptus: Healing
• Patchouli: Banishment, Defense, Tantrism, Occult Power +
• Cardamom: Self-confidence, Creativity, Tantra, Passion
• Laurel: Strength, Courage, Defense, Prosperity
• Mugwort: Empathy+, Divination, Witchcraft+
• Rose: Love, Relationships, Friendship, Self-Love
• Carnation: Knowledge, Response, Creativity

🌿 White sage ( Salvia apiana ): 94% reduction in airborne bacteria for 24 hours after fumigation.

🌿 Rosemary ( Rosmarinus officinalis )

Demonstrated effect : Smoke containing antimicrobial active compounds.

Purification, mental stimulation, clarity. Cognitive stimulant.

🌿 Mugwort ( Artemisia spp. )

Demonstrated effect : Antimicrobial and antifungal properties in smoke, according to some studies in Asia.

🌲 Cedar ( Cedrus spp. / Thuya occidentalis )
Demonstrated effect : Antimicrobial activity

🌲 Pine needles – studied properties

✅ Antimicrobials :

Research has shown that the smoke of certain pine species, such as Pinus sylvestris (Scots pine), has antibacterial and antifungal effects , much like white sage. This supports its traditional use for cleansing spaces.

✅ Decongestants & respiratory :

Very rich in monoterpenes (such as pinene), pine is known to support the respiratory tract , help clear the sinuses and provide a feeling of freshness.

✅ Stimulating & invigorating :

The scent of pine has been associated with gentle mental stimulation , vitality, and a "forest" effect that is very beneficial for stress relief. It is sometimes referred to as "olfactory forest bathing," even indoors.

✅ Calming effects (moderate):

Some studies suggest a mild calming effect on the nervous system, without being sedative—a good balance between mental clarity and relaxation.

🕯️ How to use smudge sticks

Whether it's to purify a space, soothe the mind, or simply add a touch of the sacred to everyday life, smudge sticks are wonderful allies. Here's how to use them with ease:

🌿 Steps of use:

Once ready, hold the stick at a 45-degree angle, light it with a match or candle, and let it burn for about 20 seconds. Wait 20 to 30 minutes for the smoke to reach its full strength.


Open a window slightly to allow stagnant energy and smoke to escape. You can create a favorable atmosphere by turning off bright lights or playing soft music.

Light the end of the smudge stick (sage, pine, cedar, etc.) with a match or candle. Let it burn for a few seconds, then blow gently to extinguish the flame : it should start to smoke.

Keep a clear intention : purification, calm, protection, anchoring... The smoke accompanies your intention, like a prayer rising up.

To extinguish your stick, gently press the smoking end into a bowl of sand, dirt, or a shell until it no longer smokes. Don't get it wet, so you can reuse it.

Practical advice:

- Always use in a well-ventilated area.
- Never leave a lit stick unattended.
- Store in a dry place, away from humidity.