Palo Santo is a type of wood that is commonly used as a smudging tool for spiritual and energetic purposes. You can purchase palo santo that is ethically sourced from us as a 5-pc bundle, or as part of the Power of Three Kit, Fireside Chat Kit, or Sticks in a Bundle gift.
What are the properties of Palo Santo?
Palo Santo is a type of wood that comes from the Bursera graveolens tree, which is native to South America. In Spanish, "Palo Santo" translates to "holy wood," and it has been used for centuries by indigenous people in spiritual and medicinal practices.
The wood has a sweet, woody aroma that is similar to cedar and citrus, and it is believed to have cleansing and healing properties. It is commonly used as a smudging tool, where the smoke is used to cleanse a space or person of negative energy.
Palo Santo is also used in aromatherapy, where the essential oil is extracted from the wood and used for its therapeutic properties. The oil is believed to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-anxiety effects.
Here are the steps to using Palo Santo as a smudge:
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Select a Palo Santo stick: Choose a Palo Santo stick that is of good quality, with a pleasant aroma and not too dry or too moist.
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Prepare the area: Find a quiet, well-ventilated area to perform your smudging. Open windows and doors to allow smoke to escape.
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Light the Palo Santo stick: Hold one end of the stick with a flame until it ignites. Blow out the flame to leave the stick smoldering.
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Begin smudging: Hold the smoldering Palo Santo stick and use it to direct smoke over the object or area you want to cleanse. Use a feather or your hand to waft the smoke.
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Set your intention: As you smudge, focus your mind on the intention you have for the smudging. Speak positive affirmations or intentions out loud if you feel inclined.
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Continue smudging: Move the smoldering stick around the area you want to cleanse, making sure to focus on corners and doorways. Allow the smoke to fill the entire space.
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Extinguish the Palo Santo: Once you have completed your smudging, extinguish the smoldering end of the stick by gently pressing it into a fireproof container, such as a ceramic bowl or an abalone shell.
Remember to always exercise caution when working with fire, and never leave a burning Palo Santo stick unattended.