This is the name we give to the wood of the Bursera graveolens tree, which comes from South America.

Today, the wood of this remarkable tree is used during meditation, relaxation rituals, and to draw in positive energy. When we light a Palo Santo stick and later put it out, the wood begins to smoulder and release its distinctive, enchanting scent — one that is difficult to put into words. Many say it smells of delicate lemon blended with baked apple. For others, it calls to mind burnt, caramelised sugar. What is universally true, however, is that you would be hard pressed to find someone who doesn't enjoy the scent of Palo Santo.

Although Palo Santo only became widely popular in the last few years, the story of this natural incense first began in the time of the Incas. Even then, the people of that region recognised the magical power of Palo Santo — using it in spiritual ceremonies as well as for its restorative properties.

During the time of the Incas, an aromatic oil was also extracted from Palo Santo and used both for relaxation — applied to the back of the neck or along the spine — and for the energetic purification of those on whom it was used.

This sacred wood, as it is known throughout the world, is still used by shamans in Peru to this day. They light a stick, carry the smoke around those who have come seeking support, and in doing so cleanse a person's energetic space — clearing away misfortune, negative thought patterns, and unwanted influences.

Bursera graveolens is a wild tree native to the regions of Peru and Venezuela. It grows in dry, tropical areas across Mexico, Peru, Guatemala, Ecuador, and many other parts of the world.

Yet the journey of Palo Santo from tree to stick that we can burn at home is not a simple one.

For the wood to develop its distinctive aroma, the tree must grow to maturity and die naturally — a process that can take anywhere from 50 to 70 years. If the tree is cut down, it will not develop these characteristic scents with the same depth and richness for which this wood is otherwise known.

And even once the tree has died naturally and fallen, it cannot simply be gathered, cut, and sent out into the world. The tree must lie on the ground for at least five to eight years. This is how long it takes for the essential oils within the wood to fully ripen — and without this process of maturation, the wood cannot become the quality incense we know today.

Now that you know what to look out for when purchasing Palo Santo wood, it's time to talk about its wellbeing properties.

The distinctive scent of Palo Santo is created by a special compound called Limonene, which is found in abundance in the essential oil of this tree. Limonene is known for its many beneficial effects on our body and mind. This essential oil is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic. It is precisely these properties that make it exceptionally popular among practitioners around the world.

Limonene is also remarkably effective in supporting calm during times of stress, which is why Palo Santo remains at the very heart of natural ingredients for relaxation. People use it regularly during meditation, yoga, or as part of their everyday unwinding practice.

Alongside all its other qualities, Palo Santo is also well known for repelling mosquitoes and other insects — which is why many people reach for it during the summer months, when we begin spending our evenings outside with friends. Not only will it bring good energy to the heart of our gathering, it will also keep the mosquitoes at bay.

The long history of Palo Santo wood also speaks to the other metaphysical qualities of this beautiful gift from Nature. With regular use, the wood:

• Enhances our creativity,
• Attracts positive energy,
• Clears negative energy from our surroundings,
• Supports our concentration,
• Creates a deeper connection with our true self.