Most people burn sage after burning sweetgrass as this will keep less positive forces at bay. In North America, it is found across Canada and as far south in America as the state of New Mexico. There are many Northern European traditions associated with it that are similar to the Native American/North American ceremonial usages - for the scent and for use in spirituality and prayer. The Latin name for sweetgrass is 'hierchloe odorata' which translates literally as 'sacred grass' and is found both in Europe and America. It’s more like a tapestry, or a braid of interwoven strands. But this book is not a conventional, chronological account. Some come from Kimmerer’s own life as a scientist, a teacher, a mother, and a Potawatomi woman. Interestingly, it was noticed that dogs loved to find patches of sweetgrass and roll around in it and this was used to the advantage of the person seeking the plant, much like pigs were used in Europe to hunt truffles. Braided grass is such an effective metaphor for this book, wherein Indigenous botanist Robin Wall Kimmerer braids indigenous wisdom, science, and her personal connection with plants into essay/chapters compelling to read and absorb. Robin Wall Kimmerer is a gifted storyteller, and Braiding Sweetgrass is full of good stories. Infusions of sweetgrass were drunk as well as being applied topically for different health reasons. This compound is a strong anti-coagulant and is used to prevent bloodclots in susceptible persons - used in excess, however, it can damage the liver. Below her is only darkness and water, but there are also animals living there who see Skywoman falling. The active ingredient in sweetgrass that makes it smell so wholesomely wonderful is coumarin. Braiding Sweetgrass: Chapter 1 Summary & Analysis Next Chapter 2 Themes and Colors Key Summary Analysis The narrative describes a creation story: Skywoman falls through a hole in the Skyworld and plummets downwards. This healing herb has a prominent place in daily ritual and prayer as well as a place in aboriginal medicine.

We have a great article and video on How to Light a Sweetgrass Braid for Smudging. The dried and prepared braids of sweetgrass have been a trade item on the Northern Plains for millennia.

Braided grass book