Palo Santo

A compilation of woody and earthy natural aromatics, complemented by an historical overview that outlines humanity’s usage and influence on these important natural resources.

A Brief History

Ancient Civilizations

The journey of woody and earthy aromatics intertwines with human civilization’s growth, starting from ancient times when Egyptians, Indians, Chinese, and other cultures revered these scents. Cedarwood, myrrh, frankincense, and sandalwood, among others, were essential in religious ceremonies, medical practices, and the preservation of the deceased.

Middle Ages

As we advance to the Middle Ages, the trade of these precious aromatics spread across continents. The incense route became famed, connecting the East and West, leading to a flourishing of cultures and exchange of aromatic goods. European apothecaries stocked patchouli and vetiver, praising their medicinal and aromatic virtues.

Colonial Era

During the colonial era, European powers sought to monopolize the trade of these valuable commodities. Oud, in particular, was a symbol of luxury and opulence, while sandalwood’s exploitation led to its scarcity. The colonial powers’ extraction activities started to show the first signs of strain on these natural resources.

Industrial Revolution

With the onset of the Industrial Revolution, the extraction, production, and consumption of woody and earthy natural aromatics increased exponentially. The invention of steam distillation made the extraction process more efficient, leading to an increased supply and demand.

20th Century

The 20th century saw a dual path. On one hand, synthetic alternatives began to replace natural aromatics in various products due to overexploitation and conservation concerns. On the other, a niche market valuing authenticity and natural purity emerged, cherishing the original woody and earthy scents.

21st Century & Beyond

As we step into the present day, sustainability, conservation, and ethical sourcing are at the forefront. Overharvesting issues, particularly with agarwood (oud) and sandalwood, led to strict regulations and the cultivation of these trees. The discourse now revolves around balancing the insatiable appetite for these cherished scents with the imperatives of ecological preservation and species protection.

A List of 24 Compelling Woody and Earthy Aromatics

Woody Aromatics:

Sandalwood: Known for its rich, warm scent and is often used in perfumes, incense, and aromatherapy.
Cedarwood: Offers a sweet, woody aroma and is commonly found in various fragrance products.
Oud (Agarwood): Prized for its complex, deep woody scent with a touch of sweetness.
Guaiac Wood: Has a smokey, sweet-woody odor that’s commonly used in the perfume industry.
Palo Santo: Known for its distinct sweet and woody aroma; often used for spiritual rituals.
Pine: Offers a fresh, forest-like scent that’s both woody and green.
Fir: Similar to pine but often has a more balsamic, sweet scent.
Juniper: Features a crisp, woody and slightly fruity aroma.
Birch: Has a wintergreen and woody scent, sometimes with a leathery note.
Bamboo: Offers a green, woody aroma that’s light and fresh.
Teakwood: Known for its luxurious, warm, woody, and slightly spicy scent.
Mahogany: Offers a sweet, rich, and woody aroma often associated with furniture and luxury goods.

Earthy Aromatics:

Patchouli: Known for its rich, earthy, and musky aroma; commonly used in perfumes.
Oakmoss: A lichen that offers a rich, earthy, and woody fragrance often used in perfumery.
Vetiver: Offers a complex, earthy, woody, and smoky aroma; a common base note in perfumery.
Myrrh: Has a warm, earthy, and slightly balsamic aroma; often used in incense.
Frankincense: Offers a spicy, woody, and slightly citrusy aroma, known for its calming effects.
Cypriol: Known for its woody, spicy, and earthy aroma; often used in perfumery.
Mushroom: Some varieties, like Oakwood mushroom, offer a rich, earthy aroma.
Spikenard: Offers a woody, spicy, and earthy aroma; often used in aromatherapy.
Cistus (Rockrose): Provides a warm, amber, earthy scent; often used in perfumes and incense.
Tobacco: Offers a sweet, woody, and slightly earthy scent; often used in fragrances.
Hay Absolute: Known for its sweet, grassy, and earthy aroma.
Ginseng: Although better known for its medicinal properties, it has an earthy and woody aroma.

Find home fragrances: Cedarwood, Cinnamon, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Musk, Patchouli, Pine, Sandalwood, Sage, Vanilla

Palo Santo, a mystical “Holy Wood” indigenous to Central and South America, has been celebrated for its multifaceted benefits for centuries.

What is Palo Santo?

Palo Santo, or “Holy Wood,” is a type of wood that comes from the Bursera graveolens tree native to Central and South America. It has been used for centuries by indigenous cultures for its supposed spiritual, emotional, and physical benefits.

How is Palo Santo used?

It is often used in a similar way to incense or sage, to clear negative energy and bring in positive energy. People burn sticks of Palo Santo wood and allow the smoke to fill the air in their homes, around their bodies, or over items they wish to cleanse or bless.

What are the benefits of using Palo Santo?

While there isn’t scientific evidence to support all the claims, many believe Palo Santo provides spiritual, emotional, and physical benefits such as stress relief, anxiety reduction, respiratory relief, and spiritual cleansing.

Is it safe to use Palo Santo?

Generally, Palo Santo is safe to use but should be done so with respect and caution. Avoid inhaling the smoke directly and ensure the area is well-ventilated. It’s not recommended for individuals with respiratory issues or sensitivities to smoke.

How do I burn Palo Santo?

Hold a stick at a downward angle and light the tip until there is a small flame. Allow it to burn for about 30 seconds, then blow it out. The stick should smolder and release smoke, which can then be directed as needed.

Is Palo Santo endangered?

The Bursera graveolens tree is not currently listed as an endangered species, but there are concerns about overharvesting. It’s essential to source Palo Santo responsibly from suppliers who adhere to sustainable harvesting practices.

Can I use Palo Santo essential oil instead of the wood?

Yes, Palo Santo essential oil can be a substitute. It can be used in diffusers or applied to the skin after being properly diluted. However, always conduct a patch test to ensure no allergic reactions and consult the instructions or a professional for appropriate dilution ratios.

Where can I buy Palo Santo?

Palo Santo can be purchased from various sources, including online retailers, holistic health stores, and sometimes at markets or specialty shops. Ensure that the supplier sources the wood sustainively and ethically.

How can I tell if my Palo Santo is authentic?

Genuine Palo Santo has a distinct sweet, woody, and citrusy aroma. It should burn relatively slowly and produce a calming white smoke. Be wary of very cheap products or those that lack the characteristic scent.

Can Palo Santo be used for medicinal purposes?

While indigenous cultures have attributed medicinal properties to Palo Santo, including relief for colds, inflammation, and stress, it’s always best to consult with a professional healthcare provider for treatment of medical conditions.