If there is to be any, Lavender is the scent of choice for practically all the Restorative classes I have stepped into locally; but maybe because one of my private students and a friend is suffering from a flu … tonight I changed to natural remedy of eucalyptus… and anyone in tonight’s class might have noticed I was suppressing a cough – no, no worries. I do not have a cold – it’s a bit of an allergy due to confused plum tree blossoms flowering before spring.. my eyes are watering and my respiratory system was … and selfishly my aromas were chosen to relieve me as much as, hopefully my students. My “intention” was to have us step into a Native American forest… and I heard some sighs of “ahhh”:)
*Majority requested the optional White Sage spritz… a mist during modified Savasana so just in case, one did not know, White Sage is used to purify the space for rituals in Native Indian cultures…
Traditionally, Native Americans have used white sage as a holistic remedy to cure coughs and colds as well as reduce mucous secretions of the sinuses, lungs, and throat. Thus, the White Sage spritz as a “choice” for tonight’s lunar class. White sage has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties apparently substantiated in laboratory tests.
Those who know my obsession for a ritual in the everyday, you would know I would choose White Sage over lavender for tonight’s class .. White Sage is considered a sacred herb by Native American people and used in ceremonial rituals to purify the air by clearing away native energies. It evokes our connection to nature, the sacred and the beautiful, our source.
**Here is an excerpt sourced from internet and I have no real scientific evidence to back it up but perhaps there’s a research out there… nevertheless, seems Native Americans have used it as “holy” herb and scent for a long long time:
“The American Indians referred to white sage as the king of all sages, and frequently used this herb for medicinal and ceremonial purposes. In fact, it is believed that the term “Holy Smoke” originated from the American Indians “smudging” white sage to rid people and places of unwanted evil spirits, and to protect themselves from those spirits. In addition, they believe that the smoke of sage attaches itself to negative energy found within a person, and removes it from their body. …
**In addition to smudging, white sage may be used for topical applications by preparing teas, poultices, and/or oil infusions. White sage is used in these applications because it has anti-fungal, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, calming, deodorizing, and healing properties. White sage contains diterpenoids, which are compounds which have been shown to fight bacterial infections, and reduce allergy symptoms. It also contains cineole, which acts as an anti-inflammatory/anti-bacterial agent. Tannic acid content provides anti-fungal properties. Sage is also used as an antipyretic; used as a sweat bath to reduce fever. White sage has a calming effect on the body and soul. This is likely due to its miltirone content (a compound which performs similar to valium to reduce anxiety). Finally, white sage contains phytoestrogens, which are compounds very similar to the female hormone estrogen. Herbalists have used white sage to help treat the hot flashes that accompany menopause.” These claims found on the internet, I have no scientific data for but to me…it just plain smells wonderful… ahhh with a smile.
**Disclaimer: Nothing in this article, or this blog for that matter is to be construed as medical advice; please consult your doctor before using any herbs for treatment purposes. Aroma is sometimes provided in class to serve only as a playful mood enhancement but not by any means for medical purposes.
