The Science of Smudging in Roseville: Can Sage Smoke Really Clean the Air (and Is It Safe?)
Sacred Smoke or Just Smoke? Let's Talk About Smudging and Clean Air
At Om Sweet Om Cleaning, we’re all about blending modern science with ancient wisdom. One practice that straddles both worlds? Smudging. Whether you’ve wafted sage through your space during a new moon or you're just curious about alternative air purifiers, here’s what you should know about this powerful (and polarizing) ritual.
Smudging—typically with white sage, cedar, sweetgrass, or lavender—is the ceremonial burning of herbs to cleanse a space of negative energy. But what if we told you it might also be cleaning the air…literally?
The Science of Smudging: Does Sage Smoke Kill Germs?
According to a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (PMID: 17913417), burning medicinal herbs like white sage drastically reduced the number of airborne bacteria in a closed space—by up to 94% in just one hour.
Even more impressive? After a single smudging session, the air remained nearly bacteria-free for up to 24 hours—and in some cases, certain harmful bacteria were still absent 30 days later. That’s not just spiritual cleansing—it’s serious science.
So, what gives sage this purifying power?
The secret lies in its volatile oils and bioactive plant compounds, including:
1,8-cineole (eucalyptol)
This fresh, minty-smelling compound is found in sage, eucalyptus, rosemary, and bay leaves.
Benefits:
Known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties
Commonly used in cough drops, mouthwashes, and aromatherapy
When released in smoke, it can help neutralize airborne bacteria and viruses, open up airways, and promote mental clarity
Good to know:
While low levels can be soothing, burning large amounts without proper ventilation might irritate sensitive lungs—especially for those with asthma.
Camphor
Naturally found in small amounts in sage, camphor has a distinctive menthol-like scent and is also extracted from camphor trees.
Benefits:
Antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal
Found in products like Vicks VapoRub and insect repellents
Offers a warming, slightly numbing effect
In sage smoke:
Camphor may help reduce microbes in the air and uplift your mood. But like all powerful compounds, moderation is key—especially for people with respiratory sensitivities.
Thujone
Present in sage and other aromatic herbs like wormwood, thujone has a long history in herbal medicine and spiritual rituals.
Benefits:
Believed to enhance focus, mental clarity, and even dream activity
Known for its mild psychoactive properties in high doses
In sage smoke:
Thujone contributes to the energetic “clearing” effect many people feel during smudging. Though generally safe in small amounts, high concentrations can be neurotoxic—so stick to light smudging with good airflow.
Together, these compounds break down airborne bacteria at a molecular level, leaving behind air that’s not just energetically cleared—but scientifically cleaner.
But Here’s the Smoke Side: Is There a Downside to Burning Herbs Indoors?
Just like with incense or candles, burning anything indoors introduces particulate matter into the air.
A 2021 review published in Environmental Science and Pollution Research (PMC8548258) found that incense smoke contains toxins like polyaromatic hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and formaldehyde. Prolonged exposure has been linked to respiratory issues and indoor air pollution.
While smudging and incense both release smoke, incense often contains added synthetics, perfumes, and fillers that make it more toxic by comparison. Sage smoke, in its pure form, is generally considered less harmful, but it’s not entirely without risk—especially for people with asthma, COPD, or fragrance sensitivities.
Smudging vs. Incense: What's the Cleanest Burn?
Safety of Smudging verse Incense
Om Sweet Om Suggestions for Safer Smudging:
Burn in moderation—think ritual, not room freshener
Use 100% natural, ethically sourced herbs
Always ensure good airflow or ventilation
Avoid smudging around young children, pets, or those with breathing issues
Skip it entirely if anyone in your home is allergic or sensitive to smoke
Final Thoughts from Om Sweet Om Cleaning
At Om Sweet Om Cleaning, we do more than scrub and shine—we cleanse homes on an energetic level, too. Our team proudly serves Roseville and South Placer County with eco-friendly, non-toxic cleaning that supports a truly healthy home environment.
Whether it’s purifying the air with sage, creating balance through Feng Shui-friendly routines, or offering home energy clearings, our mission is simple: help your space feel lighter, brighter, and more aligned.
💚 Book a conscious clean or ask about our home energy clearing services today—because your space deserves more than just clean… it deserves peace.
Email Info@OmsweetOmCleaning.com or fill out the request form.
👉 Serving Roseville, Rocklin, Granite Bay, and the greater South Placer County area.
✨ Om Sweet Om Cleaning – Where Clean Meets Calm.