What to Burn to Clear Negative Energy: Rituals and Herbs for Cleansing Your Space
Energy cleansing is a practice rooted in various cultural and spiritual traditions, aimed at purifying spaces and individuals from negative energies. This practice often involves the burning of specific herbs, woods, and resins, each chosen for their unique properties that promote peace, harmony, and protection. Below is an overview of some commonly used materials for energy cleansing rituals.
1. Sage (White Sage)
Traditional Use and Significance:
White sage (Salvia apiana) has been a cornerstone of Native American rituals for centuries, revered for its cleansing properties. It is traditionally used to dispel negativity and protect spaces from unwanted energies.
How to Use:
To use a sage bundle or smudge stick, light the tip until it smolders. Waft the smoke around your space, focusing on areas that feel heavy or tense.
Intention Setting:
While cleansing, it’s vital to set a clear intention about what you wish to release or invite into your space. This mindfulness enhances the effectiveness of the ritual[2][4].
2. Palo Santo
Origins and Spiritual Properties:
Palo Santo, or “holy wood,” originates from South America. Known for its sweet aroma reminiscent of pine and mint, it is used for spiritual purification and energy cleansing.
How to Burn Palo Santo:
Light a stick of Palo Santo until it catches flame, then blow it out to let it smolder. Move around your space, allowing the smoke to cleanse and reset the energy, especially after gatherings or emotional events.
Sustainability Considerations:
Ensure that you source Palo Santo responsibly to avoid contributing to overharvesting issues[3][6].
3. Cedar
Purifying and Protective Qualities:
Cedar has long been associated with grounding energy and protection against negativity. It is often used in purification rituals to cleanse spaces before significant events.
How to Use Cedar:
Burn dried cedar leaves or incense by lighting them until they produce smoke. This can be particularly beneficial when moving into a new home or after conflicts[1][6].
Symbolism of Cedar:
Cedar represents strength and resilience, enhancing feelings of security and positivity in your environment[1].
4. Sweetgrass
Native American Cultural Significance:
Sweetgrass is regarded as a sacred plant among many Native American tribes, often used in ceremonies to invite positive energy.
Burning Sweetgrass for Positivity:
To use sweetgrass, braid it and light one end. As it smolders, wave the smoke around your space to invite love, light, and good intentions following a cleansing ritual with other herbs[9].
5. Frankincense and Myrrh Resins
Historical Use and Spiritual Properties:
Both frankincense and myrrh have been utilized in ancient spiritual practices for their purifying qualities. They are known for their calming effects during meditation.
Burning on Charcoal Discs:
To burn these resins safely, place them on a heated charcoal disc in a fireproof dish. The smoke produced is believed to carry prayers and promote mindfulness[2][6].
6. Lavender
Calming and Uplifting Properties:
Lavender not only clears negative energy but also promotes relaxation and stress relief through its soothing aroma.
How to Use Lavender:
Use dried lavender bundles or incense sticks; burn them after cleansing rituals to infuse your space with calming energy. Combining lavender with other herbs like sage can enhance both cleansing and uplifting effects[2][4].
FAQs
– How often should I cleanse my space with these herbs?
Frequency can vary based on personal preference; many recommend monthly or during significant life changes.
– What are alternatives if I can’t burn herbs?
Consider using essential oils in a diffuser or salt bowls placed around your home.
– Are there safety tips for burning herbs indoors?
Always ensure proper ventilation, never leave burning items unattended, and use fireproof containers.
– Can I combine multiple herbs in one cleansing ritual?
Yes, combining herbs can enhance the ritual’s effectiveness; however, be mindful of their properties.
– What is the best herb to burn for calming energy?
Lavender is highly recommended for its relaxing qualities.
– How can I set intentions while cleansing with smoke?
Focus on your desires during the ritual; verbalize them if possible as you move through your space.
Conclusion
Burning specific herbs, woods, and resins offers unique benefits for clearing negative energy from spaces. Each material carries its own significance and properties that contribute to creating a peaceful environment. Mindfulness in setting intentions during these rituals enhances their effectiveness, making energy cleansing a deeply personal practice that fosters harmony within our living spaces.

Kyle Whyte is a notable scholar and professor at the University of Michigan, holding positions such as the George Willis Pack Professor in the School for Environment and Sustainability and Professor of Philosophy. Specializing in environmental justice, his work critically examines climate policy and Indigenous peoples’ ethics, emphasizing the nexus between cooperative scientific endeavors and Indigenous justice. As an enrolled Citizen Potawatomi Nation member, he brings a vital perspective to his roles as a U.S. Science Envoy and member of the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council. His influential research is supported by various prestigious organizations including the National Science Foundation, and disseminated through publications in high-impact journals. Kyle actively contributes to global Indigenous research methodologies and education, with affiliations to numerous institutes and societies dedicated to traditional knowledge and sustainability. Recognized for his academic and community engagement, Kyle has earned multiple awards and served in various visiting professorships. His efforts extend to leadership positions on boards and committees focused on environmental justice nationwide.