What is sweet grass?

Sweet grass, also known as Hierochloe odorata or vanilla grass, is a perennial plant that is native to North America and Eurasia. It grows in moist prairies and along riverbanks, and is often used in traditional Native American rituals and ceremonies for its sweet aroma and symbolism of unity and healing.

Sweet grass has long, soft leaves that can reach up to three feet in height. The leaves are green with a silvery stripe down the center, and they have a sweet, vanilla-like scent when crushed or burned. The plant is harvested in the late summer or early fall, dried, and then braided into bundles for ceremonial use.

In addition to its use in spiritual ceremonies, sweet grass has a number of practical applications. It can be woven into baskets or mats, used as a natural insect repellent, or even added to potpourri for its pleasant scent. Sweet grass is also sometimes used in herbal medicine as a remedy for headaches, colds, and indigestion.

Overall, sweet grass is a versatile and sacred plant that holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for many Indigenous peoples.