The history of smoking dates back to as early as 5000 BC for ceremonies, recreation, and other medicinal purposes. The consumption, cultivation, and trading of tobacco was certainly the most popular, followed by cannabis and opium.
Crafting, growing, and blending our own herbs can also serve as therapeutic alternatives to more commonly harmful chemicals contained in mass-produced tobacco products.
There are over 1,500 plants that have been documented for use as therapeutic smoke at some point in history. Uses for these plants varied widely -- from repelling insects to supporting the health of the lungs, as decongestants, for veterinary needs, to balance or influence the emotions, or even as weapons.
Herbs are often incorporated into teas, smudges, vapors, and body products like handmade soaps. Some herbal smoke is used to promote womb health (e.g. menstrual cramping/pain) in women who are not pregnant, to soothe migraines, and to aid with anxiety and depression. Other herbs can be euphoric or even hallucinogenic.
Check out AnimaMundiHerbals.com for more information and a couple of herbal smoke recipes.
Since ancient times, our ancestors have burned sacred herbs, using the smoke to dispel negativity, raise vibrations, and assist with deep spiritual work — the process we know today as smudging. Renowned clinical herbalist, medicine maker, and educator Adriana Ayales, owner of Anima Mundi will guide you through a smoke cleansing ritual to clear the bacteria in the air around you… and purify your space energetically.
You can register here for Indigenous Plant Medicine Rituals for Purification & Protection: Experience the Power of Smudging & Limpias to Cleanse Your Energetic & Physical Space.
Anima Mundi Apothecary products are available at the Shaman's Market.
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