Smudging and storing Palo Santo: what you need to know
Palo Santo has become a favourite for those seeking a natural way to cleanse their space, raise the vibration, or create a calm, grounded atmosphere. Known as “holy wood,” this sacred tree from South America has been used for centuries in spiritual rituals. In this post, we’ll explore how to smudge with Palo Santo, when and why you might use it and how to store Palo Santo, including partially burnt sticks, to keep them fresh and effective.
The history and sacred lineage of Palo Santo
Palo Santo (Bursera graveolens) grows in dry tropical forests in countries like Ecuador and Peru. Indigenous communities have long used its wood in spiritual practices, especially for cleansing negative energy, promoting healing, and attracting good fortune. Traditionally, Palo Santo is harvested only from naturally fallen branches and trees, then cured for several years to develop its signature scent and energetic properties.
Why smudge with Palo Santo?
Smudging with Palo Santo is a powerful ritual to clear stagnant energy and invite in peace and clarity. Its gentle, uplifting and grounding aroma makes it ideal for those who find white sage too overpowering.
You might use Palo Santo to:
- Clear your home or workspace of negative energy
- Prepare for meditation, yoga, or journaling
- Cleanse your crystals, oracle cards, or personal energy field
- Mark transitions like a new moon, a new job, or a new home.
How to smudge with Palo Santo
Using Palo Santo is simple and intuitive. Here is a quick guide to get you started.
- Light one end of the stick with a match or lighter.
- Let it burn for around 30 seconds, then gently blow it out - the stick will continue to smoulder.
- Move the smoke around your space, over your body, or around objects you wish to cleanse. Make sure to hold a fireproof dish, like an abalone shell or ceramic bowl, under your stick to catch any dropping ash or embers.
- Once done, place the stick in your fireproof dish and allow it to extinguish fully.
Palo Santo naturally goes out on its own, making it perfect for short, intentional smudging sessions.
How to store partially burnt Palo Santo Sticks
One of the common questions I get is, 'How do you store partially burnt Palo Santo?'
Here are a few tips to keep your sticks fresh and potent between uses.
- Always let the burnt end cool completely before storing.
- Keep your Palo Santo in a dry spot, away from humidity and sunlight.
- Store partially burnt sticks in something like a ceramic bowl, shell, or natural-fibre pouch to allow airflow.
- Avoid plastic bags or sealed containers, as they can trap moisture and dull the scent.
Proper storage helps preserve the aroma and energetic quality of your Palo Santo, so every time you reach for it, it’s as powerful as the first use.
The importance of ethical and sustainable sourcing
Not all Palo Santo is created equal. Due to increasing demand, some sources engage in unethical harvesting, including cutting down live trees, which disrupts the natural ecosystem and impacts its longevity and availability for future generations.
At Seeds of Wonder, all my smudge products, including my Palo Santo, are ethically and sustainably harvested and verified by my suppliers. My Palo Santo is collected from naturally fallen trees, with vendors supporting reforestation efforts, Indigenous communities, and traditional harvesting practices.
Smudge with intention, sustainably
Whether you’re new to energy rituals or a seasoned smudger, ethically sourced Palo Santo can elevate your practice. Keep your energy clear, your space peaceful, and your rituals intentional, and remember to store your partially burnt sticks mindfully.
✨ Explore my range of sustainably sourced Palo Santo and smudge products here:
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