White sage, or Salvia apiana, from the coastal mountains of North America is a broad leaf sage which is prized for its strong medicinal and aromatic properties. Sage has been used by many cultures for thousands of years for cleansing, and purification of both individuals and spaces through ritual burning, which puts out a lot of soothing smoke. Very refreshing, relaxing, and clearing --- like traveling through the clouds. 
 
To burn a smudge stick: light the tip, gently blow it out and either wave in air and place in a fireproof container lined with sand or salt. To extinguish, invert smudge into the sand or salt to smother.