Lignum vitae
History & Explanation
Palo Santo, holy wood or holy stick. The wood comes from a sacred tree, the Bursera Graveolens. You can find this tree in the coastal areas of Peru, Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands
Palo santo means "sacred wood". In various cultures, the wood of this tree has been used in a traditional way for many centuries in ceremonies, rituals and religious activities. Indigenous South American peoples treat the wood of the Palo santo with great respect and reverence and attribute many medicinal properties to it.
The shamans use Palo santo wood in countless healing and purification rituals. These provide a spiritual purification of body, mind and soul.
Palo santo is burned, releasing a sweet, warm scent that amplifies the vibration of the air and is said to provide a deeper connection to the source, leading to a deep, meditative state.
The Incas, Mayas, Criollos and countless other indigenous peoples used Palo santo to drive away evil spirits and attract good luck, health and prosperity. An old, well-known Ecuadorian proverb says “Palo santo for cleaning your house and attracting good luck”.