What Is Palo Santo? Spiritual, Ethical, and Aromatic Insights

Palo Santo, also known as "Holy Wood," is a natural wood that has been used for centuries in spiritual practices across South America. But beyond its pleasant scent, it holds a deep history, specific uses, and important ethical concerns. If you’re curious about this sacred tool, here’s everything you need to know—clearly and simply.

🌿 What Exactly Is Palo Santo?

Palo Santo (Bursera graveolens) is a tree native to Peru, Ecuador, and other parts of South America. In Spanish, its name means “Holy Wood.” When burned, the wood produces a soft, sweet aroma, often described as a mix of citrus, mint, and pine.

Traditionally, Indigenous communities have used Palo Santo in ceremonies to clear negative energy, purify spaces, and support emotional or physical healing.

🧘 Spiritual Benefits of Palo Santo

People burn Palo Santo to:

• Clear energy from a room or object

• Enhance meditation and focus

• Soothe stress and anxiety

• Create a sacred space for rituals or prayer

It’s often used like white sage, but the scent is lighter and woodier.

🌎 Is It Ethical to Use Palo Santo?

This is an important and often overlooked question.

Not all Palo Santo is harvested responsibly. The Bursera graveolens tree is not endangered, but overharvesting and illegal trade in some regions threaten the species and the local communities who depend on it.

So, if you choose to use it:

- Buy from trusted sources that work directly with Indigenous communities or use fallen branches only
- Look for certifications or ethical sourcing statements
- Use it mindfully and sparingly, respect its cultural roots

🪵 How to Use Palo Santo

Using Palo Santo is simple and gentle. Here's how:

1. Light the tip of a Palo Santo stick

2. Let it burn for about 30 seconds, then blow it out

3. Allow the smoke to rise and move it around your space, body, or objects

4. Place it in a fireproof bowl and let the smoke fade naturally

💡 Tip: Palo Santo doesn’t burn continuously like incense. You may need to relight it.

🌺 Aromatherapy & Everyday Use

Even if you’re not doing a full ritual, Palo Santo is useful:

• In your home – Clear out stale energy or smells

• During yoga or breathwork – Light it at the beginning for focus

• As a natural insect repellent – Its oils help keep bugs away

• In the form of essential oil – Add it to diffusers for a calming scent

Palo Santo is more than just trendy wood—it’s a spiritually rich, culturally sacred, and naturally powerful tool. Whether you use it for energy cleansing or simply enjoy its earthy scent, remember to use it respectfully and responsibly.

Choose ethically sourced Palo Santo, stay mindful of its roots, and let its gentle smoke support your well-being.