Grandmother Moon smudge available

August 9, 2013

In support of women, the Union of Ontario Indians FASD Program will be test running a new promotional item called “Grandmother Moon Medicine”, a form of liquid smudge derived from sage, one of the four sacred medicines.

“We currently offer the 4 sacred medicines in travel kits for traditional style smudging, Liquid Smudge but are now testing the Grandmother Moon Liquid Smudge, specifically for Anishinabe women,” says Laurie McLeod-Shabogesic, FASD Program Coordinator.

“We personally harvest and prepare all of our medicines. Our goal is to strive to ensure that they are harvested in a good-way, that tobacco has been offered, that the medicines have been prayed over and that they are smudged prior to distribution. In doing so, we ask the Creator to ensure that the medicine reaches those that it needs to and somehow helps them on their healing journey.”

The medicines are never sold but rather shared with Anishinabek Nation communities through workshops, health fairs etc. Sometimes they are given as gifts at the end of a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) workshop or sometimes they are given in exchange, as we ask our fellow community members to share what they have learned about FASD with their family and friends.

While the medicine can be used anyone, it is important to note that while some of our 39 member First Nations are of the belief that women should not use or handle any medicines while on their moontime, some of our member nations do allow women to use sage while on their moontime. Those wishing to use the Grandmother Moon Liquid Smudge will be encouraged to do so according to their nation’s teachings and cultural beliefs.

The liquid smudge comes in mini spray bottles and may be used very similarly to traditional smudge. You can spray some on your hands and touch your eyes, your ears, your mouth, your heart, wherever one is seeking healing. The bottles are compact and safe for travelling.

In our program the emphasis of our work is dedicated to raising awareness about the effects of alcohol consumption during pregnancy, we also recognize that raising children with disabilities is hard work. It is a lifelong disability and is often very stressful for families. If something like a simple smudge can help them through a difficult moment, then we have done what we have set out to do, which is to help give them strength and nurture their spirit.

We also want to ensure that it is understood that the provision of liquid smudges is meant to help those who may live or work in places where they are unable to smudge freely. Our Liquid Smudge has been very well-received by families with loved ones in the hospital and families with children with asthma, respiratory challenges or other related medical sensitivities that prevent them from smudging at home. We want to be clear that they are NOT intended to replace or erode traditional methods of smudging, but rather to nurture self-care, cultural pride and healing.

Alcohol consumption during pregnancy is the number one cause of developmental disabilities in Canada. As you can imagine, there is a lot of stigma associated with FASD. While we strive to provide a balance of information on western approaches to treatment and healing, when it comes to Anishinabe people, we find that we seem to have the greatest success in health campaigns that are culturally-based. Our young people in particular are seeking traditional teachings and healing methods. To support them, we offer a wide range of workshops on traditional approaches to a healthy pregnancy and in some of those workshops have included teachings on Baby’s First Pair of Moccasins, how to make diaper salves, the Creation of Ojibwe Moss Bags etc.

For more information about the Union of Ontario Indians FASD Programs and services contact us at 1-877-702-5200 and we will connect you with an FASD Regional Program Worker nearest you.