Native American smudge incense sticks are used for purifying the atmosphere, dispersing negativity, protection. Smudges put out a lot of soothing smoke. Very refreshing, relaxing, clearing --- like traveling through the clouds. To burn a smudge stick, just light the tip, blow it out and either wave in air or place in a fire-proof holder with sand or salt placed therein to hold the smudge upright. To extinguish, invert smudge into the sand or salt to smother.