Palo Santo—ethical origin, fragrance and properties
Our Palo Santo incense comes from Peru, is ethically sourced and certified by SERFOR. We support responsible, regenerative sourcing practices, & contribute to active reforestation efforts to ensure a long-term supply of the Bursera graveolens tree for future generations. We are very proud to partner with a sustainably-focused supplier & native communityies who oversee the sustainable and ethical trade of our beloved Palo Santo wood. Living trees are never cut down to make our Palo Santo (Bursera graveolens). We collect only naturally-fallen trunks and branches from the dry forests of Ecuador & Perú, where this wood is abundant. Our smudge sticks are gathered in nature, split by hand, and treated with appreciation and respect, by the local families committed to helping share Palo Santo’s incredible benefits.
Palo Santo is one of the most popular and most used incense, otherwise known as the “Holy Tree”. It is most often used for spiritual cleansing and balancing the energy. Traditionally, it is also used as a natural remedy for colds and flu, as well as stress. It relieves asthma symptoms, headaches, anxiety, depression and reduces inflammation. Known for its calming effect, it also supports the immune and nervous systems, which aids faster recovery. It has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects, and also supports the fight against viral and fungal infections.
The ritual of using Palo Santo dates back to the Inca Empire, where it was used during spiritual ceremonies and as traditional medicine. Today, almost 500 years later, Palo Santo is still used in Central and South American communities by shamans and healers who believe in its power to purify the aura, increase the flow of good energy and protect against bad vibrations. Its uplifting fragrance is the perfect partner for meditation, yoga, and breathwork. Raise your vibrations and discover peace and grounding as you enter into a deeper connection with Earth and inner awareness. Palo Santo is much more than just another trend or pleasant fragrance, and should be treated as such – with respect for its mysticism, properties and the culture it comes from.
How to use Palo Santo incense sticks?
Palo Santo is nothing more than a small stick from a tree with a high content of essential oils. It is a completely natural product. To burn, hold Palo Santo over the flame for about half a minute at an angle of about 45 degrees. The stick is properly lit not when it starts to smoke gently, but only when it catches the flame. Then, allow it to burn for a moment and blow it out to put out the flame. At this point it will start to smoke generously. Direct the smoke to the places that you want to cleanse or put the Palo Santo in a ceramic dish. It is a ceremonial incense, used for rituals, encouraging a moment of peace and reflection when burning.