Palo Santo Stick

Palo santo (Bursera graveolens) is a tree that’s native to Peru, Ecuador, and other South American countries. It grows in dry tropical forests and produces a very fragrant resin. In Spanish, palo santo means “holy wood.”

For thousands of years, the wood, resin, and oil have been used for medicinal purposes. It’s mainly used to treat pain and stress. It’s also said to clear negative energy.  It has been used by indigenous peoples for centuries.

Another supposed benefit is pain relief. People use palo santo to treat different types of pain, including arthritis, headaches and throat pain.

Again, this effect may be related to limonene, which has analgesic (pain-relieving) and anti-inflammatory properties. Limonene can provide relief by inhibiting certain neuronal pathways on animals.

Many people find the aroma of palo santo relaxing, so it’s commonly used to ease stress. It’s thought to have a purifying, cleansing effect on the body and mind. This might also be due to limonene, inhaled limonene exhibits anti-stress and anti-anxiety properties.

To burn palo santo wood sticks:

1. Light a palo santo stick with a candle, lighter, or match.
2. Hold the stick downward at a 45-degree angle.
3. Let the stick burn for 30 seconds.
4. Blow out the flame. Place the stick in a heatproof dish to let it burn.