Sweetgrass

These Sweetgrass braids measure approximately 23 to 25 inches in length.

Sweetgrass (Hierochloe odorata) is a fragrant perennial grass native to North America and northern Eurasia. It thrives in low meadows, along lake shores, and in wet or marshy areas. Its sweet, vanilla-like aroma comes from an aromatic compound known as coumarin. Revered by Indigenous peoples as one of the four sacred medicines, sweetgrass is used in smudging and ceremonies to purify spaces, invite positive energy, heal the spirit, and honor the Earth.

I have some sweetgrass that I acquired from our local Indigenous community, as well as some from a recent storefront closure. Knowing the supplier well, I am confident that this sweetgrass was sourced with respect and care.

Why Use Sweetgrass?

• Spiritual Cleansing: Often burned after sage, sweetgrass is used to attract good, peaceful spirits and positive energy, complementing sage’s role in clearing out negative energy.

• Symbolism of the Braid: Typically braided into three strands, sweetgrass represents the mind, body, and spirit—or honors past generations, current teachings, and future generations.

• Aroma and Comfort: The coumarin in sweetgrass gives it a sweet, vanilla-like scent that provides a sense of calm, even when unlit.

How to Use Sweetgrass

• Smudging: Light the tip of a dried sweetgrass braid gently until it smolders, producing fragrant smoke.

• Guiding the Smoke: Use a feather or your hands to gently guide the smoke over your body, an object, or around a room, setting a peaceful and purified intention.

• Storing: Keep the unlit braid in a respectful place in your home or in a medicine bundle, allowing its natural fragrance to bring comfort.

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