Sweetgrass is symbolic. There are 21 strands used to make a braid.
The first 7 strands represent those 7 generations behind us including: Our parents, our grandparents, our great-grand parents, and so on. Who we are and what we are is because of them. Sweetgrass helps us remember to heal and reconnect with our ancestors.
The next 7 strands represent the 7 sacred teachings: Love, Respect, Honesty, Courage, Wisdom, Truth, and Humility. Though simple, these are powerful and beautiful teachings we can all learn. Sweetgrass reminds us to incorporate these teachings into our daily lives.
The last 7 strands are those of the 7 generations in front of us: Our children, our grandchildren, our great-grand children and so on. Everything we do will one day affect them. Sweetgrass reminds us of our legacy we create each day.