Anishinaabe Teachings of the Four Sacred Medicines – The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund

November 17, 2025

The information on this page represents only a small portion of the many sacred Indigenous teachings and protocols that exist. The teachings, stories, and cultural knowledge shared represent one perspective and may differ between Nations, regions, and individuals. DWF recognizes and respects the diversity of Indigenous teachings and experiences throughout Turtle Island.

For more information, please consult with a Traditional Elder, Knowledge Keeper, Healer, or Medicine Person.

Together, tobacco, sage, cedar, and sweetgrass are known as the Four Sacred Medicines.
It is said that tobacco sits in the eastern doorway, sweetgrass in the south, sage in the west, and cedar in the north. These medicines are used in daily life and in ceremony. Each carries their own teachings, responsibilities, and gifts. All four can be used in smudging practices, and when bundling and preparing these medicines, people are encouraged to put their good thoughts and/or prayers into them.