Palo Santo Sticks
Aromatic palo santo wood from Ecuador — Bursera graveolens, the 'holy wood' of the dry forests of South America. Burned for its warm, sweet, resinous smoke in smudging and ceremonial use.
Details
- Bursera graveolens (true palo santo)
- Ethically harvested from naturally fallen wood, Ecuador
- Sold by individual stick
Tradition
Palo santo has been used by Indigenous peoples of Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia for thousands of years — burned in ceremonies for cleansing, prayer, and to clear the air. The wood develops its full aromatic compounds only after the tree has fallen and rested on the forest floor for several years; this is why ethical sourcing means naturally fallen wood, never cutting living trees.
How to use
Light the tip of the stick and let it catch flame for 30-60 seconds. Blow out the flame so the wood smoulders and releases its sweet, resinous smoke. Palo santo sticks self-extinguish quickly and can be re-lit many times.
About the species
The two species commonly sold as 'palo santo' are very different. Bursera graveolens, native to Peru and Ecuador, is the traditional ceremonial wood and is sustainably harvested as fallen wood. Bulnesia sarmientoi, native to the Gran Chaco of Argentina and Paraguay, is a different tree often substituted for the original — and is now CITES-listed as endangered. Our palo santo is genuine Bursera graveolens from Ecuador.
Care & safety
Always smudge in a well-ventilated space. Place the smouldering bundle on a heat-safe surface — abalone shell, ceramic bowl, or stone — to catch ash and embers. Never leave a burning bundle unattended. Keep away from curtains, paper, pets, and anything flammable. To extinguish, gently press the lit end into sand, ash, or a stone surface.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place. Keep sealed if possible to preserve the aromatic oils.