[quote Dervel]@EmotionalSupportBear, I cannot (respectfully) disagree with you more. Cultural Appropriation is part of a new racism, designed along with other principles to keep people segregated and divided. Although I very much appreciate many flock to it from a place of wishing to do good. It actually accomplishes the opposite as the intention is not a pure one.
I’ve been practising for 25+ years, and yes my practice has been primarily in the western tradition, but I have had the privilege to work alongside many from indigenous cultures both in America, and with those who have made the trip to England and done spiritual work here, and I cannot stress strongly enough I hope many more continue to do so, they are very welcome.
I can sort of see an objection to those who delve into the shallow end of the spiritual path, and adopt certain things because it is on trend, but even then you see a propagation of important culture, beliefs and practices that opens the door a crack to those who may pursue things in more depth and richness.
The world’s spiritual traditions and faith’s interlock and are capable of great synergy and harmony (as long as you aren’t in the fundamentalist energy of “my system is best”). I have spiritual brothers and sisters from across the world, and have indeed been fortunate to receive instruction from many and in many systems.
That said the point on sourcing sustainable resources is a good one. May the light of understanding attend your sleeping and waking.
To the OP, just take whichever prominent figure from whichever religion you were raised in or resonates with you strongly now (Jesus, Buddha, Shiva, etc), and say a prayer for protection and to clear the house. Just doing that is way more powerful than people think. Any fear/anxiety on your part exacerbates the issue so do not fear, repeat as necessary.[/quote]
My response on here was based on the OP not being a practising Witch, and someone unlikely to do the research behind a herbs particular use/history/politics...etc.
I can absolutely respect other practioners decisions to use White Sage if they choose, I've been practising 22 years myself :) although i've not had the privilege of being able to travel and work with those with other ethnic backgrounds.
Personally i think if herbs are home grown and sustainably sourced...etc and used in magic with respect, i have no issue with their use, just of late i'm somewhere jaded and irritated by people doing magic or practising without doing the appropriate research and seeing it as a modern 'fad' and running riot through everything i'm sure you and I have been taught to respect and handle with the utmost consideration and care!