Plant Porn: Palo Santo

Palo santo ("holy wood") is a tree native to Central and South America.

Palo Santo belongs to the same family as the trees that frankincense and myrrh are produced from, and like these two it is known for its fragrance and its mystical healing qualities. In fact, it was so widely used indigenous shamanic practices to cure many diseases that the Spanish settlers in the 15th century called the tree “Santo".

Its scent is likened to sweet pine, mint and lemon, and is used for energy cleanse and spiritual purification, helping you fill a space with good vibrations. Its also thought to have anti-inflammatory and stress relieving properties, and is used by some to soothe headaches and anxiety.

The mystical and sacred properties of Palo Santo are particularly special as they take a long time in the making. They are created through an alchemical process which begins as soon as the tree or branch dies (and this has to be by natural causes only), after that it still has to lay in wait for another 10 years before the process is complete and it's healing powers can be harnessed.

So how do we use it? Palo Santo bark can be burnt like smudge sticks to create a peaceful, relaxing and cleansed space. It's also available as an essential oil so you can apply it directly to pulse points or use it in an atomiser to enjoy the smell and it's health benefits.

Sound good? We have a lovely range of ethically sourced Palo Santo products to help you find your inner peace wherever you go.