Ṗejiḣot̄a (Sage) is used in each of our ceremonies and just about everyday. Mostly used to Azilya (smudge), it is also used for cooking. Ṗejiḣot̄a is often overharvested to feed demand from cultural appropriation. Azilya is a closed practice, and we encourage everyone to be conscientious about where and how you gather Ṗejiḣot̄a to ensure that the plant survives to be part of the lives of our future generations.
Ṗejiḣot̄a - Sage
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Make an offering before harvesting, ċaŋṡaṡa or tobacco are most common but some people offer corn or other gifts they have in abundance. Be mindful of the health of the population you’re harvesting, not taking too much if this relative is not abundant.
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When you harvest, cut off the strands and leave the roots to grow back. We leave the two tallest plants, the chief and his wife, because they will ensure the sage returns for the next harvesting season.
Try not to overharvest.
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Ṗejiḣot̄a is used to Azilya before ceremonies and can also be used for medicinal teas or adding a little flavor to a coffee. Strong teas can be made to help with ulcers caused by certain bacterias, but only for short periods of time.
What to know
Learn more about ṗejiḣot̄a
Listen to a ṗejiḣot̄a teaching shared at the 2025 Ohuŋk̄aŋk̄aŋ Series: Seeding Plant Sovereignty
Presented by Tipiziwin Tolman.
Learn to make Ṗejiḣot̄a coffee creamer from Inyan Eagle Elk
Inyan discusses ṗejiḣot̄a creamer for coffee in this demonstration of a variety of drinks made with our traditional plant relatives.