Palo Santo
Palo Santo, literally meaning “holy wood” in Spanish, is a tree that is widely distributed throughout Central and South America. Palo Santo is used in South America in much the same way white sage is used in North America- to combat negative energy and to cleanse the space.
Traditionally, only the fallen branches and twigs of the tree are harvested, and this practice is regulated by the government of Peru to ensure that the trees do not become overharvested. Unfortunately, as Palo Santo has become more popular, the illegal harvesting and cutting of trees have also greatly increased. Consequently, it is important to do so from an ethical wildcrafter if you are purchasing wild harvested Palo Santo. The Palo Santo offered by Mountain Rose Herbs comes from a 50-acre farm in Ecuador that contains both naturally occurring and replanted Palo Santo. They have replanted over 5000 Palo Santo trees on the land so far to ensure adequate supply for the future.
How to use: Light the end then blow out the fire. Wave around self/area you wish to cleanse.