Sage was once considered a medicinal cure-all. One study noted the history of sage's power to even enhance memory. Aside from its medicinal and healing benefits, sage is also commonly used for "smudging," a purification ritual of Native American and other indigenous cultures wherein dried herbs are tied into a bundle and lighted. Burning sage is practiced today in many parts of the world to clear stagnant or negative energy, but it is also believed to enhance healing. Smudging Technique: 1. Prep