This botanical profile is part of the Star Naturals Herbal Library.
Palo Santo
Latin Name: Bursera graveolens
Family: Burseraceae (the same botanical family as frankincense and myrrh)
Historical / Folk Use
Palo Santo, often translated as “holy wood,” has been revered for centuries in Indigenous traditions throughout South and Central America. Native to the tropical dry forests of regions such as Ecuador, Peru, Colombia, and surrounding areas, this aromatic tree has long been associated with ceremonial practices, aromatic rituals, and intentional living.
Traditionally, only naturally fallen and well-aged branches were gathered, honoring a reciprocal relationship with the land. Herbalists and ritual practitioners valued Palo Santo for its warm, sweet scent. Burned or infused, it was appreciated for promoting clarity, mindfulness, and emotional steadiness. Its grounding aroma made it a staple in aromatic preparations.
Energetics
Traditionally described as:
• Warming and activating
• Softly expansive
• Grounding yet gently uplifting
• Centering to mood
• Comforting, calming, and centering
• Traditionally associated with clarity and intention
• Harmonizes well with other sacred resins and woods
How Star Naturals
uses this botanical
Palo Santo appears in aromatic blends designed to promote grounding and emotional balance.
With its rich, woodsy scent and deeply grounding presence, it adds warmth and balance to the blend, supporting moments of focus, emotional steadiness, and intentional breathwork during daily rituals.
Found in these Star Naturals formulations:
Research & Resources
The research summaries below highlight findings from scientific studies on compounds found in this botanical.
They are provided for educational purposes and do not represent claims about the effects of Star Naturals products.
Study 1:
The Yaogara ethnobotanical entry describes Bursera graveolens (Palo Santo) as a tree native to parts of South America, documenting its traditional use primarily for aromatic, ceremonial, and cultural purposes.
Study 2:
Laboratory analysis observed that Palo Santo essential oil contains limonene and other volatile terpenes, which contribute to its characteristic scent.
Study 3:
Palo Santo essential oil, rich in limonene and other volatile compounds, was associated with insect repellency in experimental conditions.