Sweetgrass
Sweetgrass, also known as Vanilla Grass or Holy Grass, holds significant spiritual and physiological value for Indigenous peoples of North America. This perennial grass, known for its sweet, vanilla scent, features flat leaves and small bronze-colored spikelets has a variety of medicinal and ceremonial uses.
Health Benefits:
Respiratory illness relief
Stress reduction
Mindfulness/Contemplative Practices
Community Wellness
Health Condition:
Anxiety
Depression
Respiratory illness
Method of Use:
Burn/Smoke
Ceremony
Tea
Alternative Names:
Anthoxanthum nitens (Weber) Y. Schouten & Veldkamp
Cultural Narrative
One community member described sweetgrass as a sacred medicine that can be used on a daily basis, particularly through burning in a smudge or spiritual cleansing process. He described burning sweetgrass for seeking guidance, clarity, and direction. Specifically, he stated: "The four major medicines that I use on mainly a daily basis are the four sacred medicines of our people (Sicangu Lakota), and that would be tobacco, cedar, sage and sweet grass. {These medicines] come to be a part of who I am. They're a part of what I deem my culture; that living, breathing, part of my culture that I go to every day to seek guidance, get some clarity, or move some energy out of my way that might be hampering me that day. Maybe give back with gratitude for what I received that day. So those four medicines, I use those to help me define that next step in my intentions for each and every day."
Another community member described the use of burning sweet grass to remove Mal de Ojo also known as Evil Eye. Several more community members described burning Sweetgrass in smudge to cleanse and calm the nervous system. Traditionally, Sweetgrass is braided and burned like incense in ceremonies to smudge oneself, a practice that involves washing the smoke over your body with your hands to cleanse your mind, purify, bless, and protect yourself and others.
While evidence is limited, current literature suggests a possible effect on cold relief and aiding common ailments, including as a medicinal tea for ailments like coughs, sore throats, fever, and more. It can also be smoked or burned for cold relief.
Content here is for informational purposes only. As with all medicines, please consult with your physician before use.