Meet our Saining Herb Bundle
Saining is an old Scots word meaning to cleanse, bless, protect or purify. Traditionally, this can be done through fire, smoke, water and/or words. This is Saining (not Smudging), a Scottish/Celtic tradition with roots of its own.
Ethically foraged and home-grown in our Apothecary garden, these herbs are gathered with care. Our Herb Bundles are hand-bound with cotton string, and finished with a Rowan Twig Cross tied with red thread, weaving old Scottish traditions into a protection charm against ill wishes. The Rowan Tree and the colour red have long been regarded in Scottish folklore as protective.
The bundle comes with a little information card, making it a lovely gift for anyone who is interested in ancient traditions and Scottish folklore.
Across Scotland, there are 4 yearly fire festivals marked important turning points in the year, including Beltane in spring and Samhain (Halloween) in autumn. During these festivals, communities would gather around bonfires (some still do), with smoke forming part of traditional practices of purification and protection for the people, their homes and livestock, against ill will, both human and otherworldly. Smoke has also played a role in cleansing and protective traditions in many cultures and faiths around the world.
INGREDIENTS
Rosemary, Sage, Bay, Scots Pine, Lemon Balm, Lavender, Cotton Thread, Rowan Wood
The smoke produced is herbal, green and woody. It does not produce a vast quantity of smoke all at once but instead creates a slow release of smoke for a few minutes, until you light it again. We suggest using a candle to light the herbs. Please note that fire and embers can burn, use with caution.
INSTRUCTIONS & WARNINGS
Burn on a heat-resistant surface. Only use in a well-ventilated room away from flammable materials and drafts. Never leave burning herb bundle unattended. Ensure all ash falls onto a heat and fireproof surface and extinguish completely after use. You may need to trim cotton thread before/after burning. Not recommended when pregnant. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not eat.
