What is a cedar smudge stick?

This is a hand-bound 5-inch smudge stick of dried cedar foliage, typically western red cedar (Thuja plicata). Lit at the tip and blown out, the bundle smolders slowly and releases a fresh, woody, slightly sweet smoke: the classic Pacific Northwest forest aroma.

Cedar in Pacific Northwest tradition

Western red cedar is one of the most culturally significant plants of the Pacific Northwest. For Indigenous peoples of the region, including the Coast Salish, Tlingit, Haida, Tsimshian, and Nuu-chah-nulth, the tree has historically provided wood for longhouses, totem poles, and canoes, bark for weaving, and foliage with a documented place in ceremony. Burning aromatic plants, often called smudging, is a documented practice in many Indigenous North American traditions, and cedar is one of its foundational plants. We describe that history with respect; the depth of the tradition belongs to the peoples who carry it.

Burning characteristics

A smudge stick is made to be relit. Light the tip until it smolders, and hold or rest it over a heatproof dish to catch ash. Used intermittently and relit between sessions, a 5-inch cedar stick typically gives 10 to 20 burns. To put it out, press the lit end into sand or smother it in a heatproof container.

Related smudge sticks

• Juniper Smudge — a clean, resinous cousin from the cypress family.
• White Sage Smudge — the California classic, in two lengths.
• Sweetgrass Braids — sweet, vanilla-scented braided grass.

Format & size

Sold as a single hand-bound stick, approximately 5 inches long. We make no health or therapeutic claims.

Storage

Store the stick in a dry place away from humidity so the foliage stays crisp and burns evenly.

Cedar smudge at a glance

Source

Dried cedar foliage, typically Thuja plicata

Length

Approximately 5 inches

Aroma

Fresh, woody, slightly sweet

Burn character

Smolders with light fragrant smoke; relightable