Aromatic Native American incense herb. It is used to make the smudge sticks commonly in Native American ceremonies and to also use loosely in order to add other herbs and resins to your mixture. Medicinal: Used for skin washes and as a natural deodorant. Mild tea is used as a general tonic. Dried Smudging Sage. NOTE: The leaves of this smudging sage are thiner and less dense than the more familiar White Sage. This plant has the same benefits so do not be concerned. You use the whole stems, with leaves and seed heads.