White Sage (Artemisia ludoviciana), similar in appearance to the white sage (Salvia apiana) found in Southern California, (both used for smudge sticks) was introduced to me by a Hispanic lady as the best herb in Erath County for an upset stomach. I had no trouble finding some for my garden because it can be found all over the county. Its an aromatic, silvery perennial that root spreads quickly and is not troubled by drought. A tea from this herb is said to reduce fever as well as calm an upset stomach. Indigenous Texans rubbed it on their skin as an antibacterial deodorant and for purification before certain rituals. The Cheyenne crushed the leaves to use as snuff for sinus problems. The best known use is as smudge sticks. Many Native Americans believed the smoke (said to have anit-microbial properiies) could ward off sickness, bad influences and can purify a room.