What Is Palo Santo? The Wood, the Scent and Sourcing

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Updated November 1, 2026

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Quick answer: Palo santo ('holy wood' in Spanish) is the aromatic wood of Bursera graveolens, a tree native to dry forests of South America (and parts of Central America). It's burned as incense, and its scent is often described as woody, citrusy and minty. It shouldn't be confused with Bulnesia sarmientoi, a different tree also called palo santo, which is listed under CITES.

Palo santo sticks are sold widely for their fragrance, and sourcing matters.

Two trees, one name

	Bursera graveolens	Bulnesia sarmientoi
Sold as	Palo santo sticks, oil	Palo santo wood, oil (also 'guaiacwood')
Native to	Dry forests of Ecuador, Peru and nearby regions	Gran Chaco (Paraguay, Argentina, Bolivia)
Trade rules	Varies by country	Listed in CITES Appendix II, so international trade is regulated

What it smells like

People describe Bursera graveolens as sweet and resinous, with notes of citrus, pine and mint, due to aromatic compounds like limonene in the wood.

Buying responsibly

Look for sellers who say the wood comes from naturally fallen trees and branches, with country of origin stated.
Prefer sellers who name their sourcing program or harvest permits.
Be cautious with very cheap bulk listings with no sourcing information.

Where to shop

Palo santo sticks
Look for stated origin and sourcing.
Check price on Amazon
Palo santo holder
Fireproof dish or holder.
Check price on Amazon

We link to Amazon search results so you can compare current listings, prices and reviews yourself. We have not tested these products.

Safety

Treat a smoldering stick like an open flame: never leave it unattended, keep it away from curtains, children and pets, use a fireproof dish, and make sure it's fully out. The NFPA's candle-safety guidance applies. Smoke from burning any plant material affects indoor air, so ventilate the room, and skip smoke if you or someone at home has asthma or breathing problems.

A note on tradition

Smudging has deep spiritual meaning in many Indigenous cultures. This site explains products and safe use; it doesn't speak for any tradition. We don't make health claims about smoke.

Frequently asked questions

What is palo santo used for?

Mostly as incense for its scent, in rituals, meditation and to freshen rooms.

Is palo santo endangered?

Bursera graveolens isn't the same as Bulnesia sarmientoi, which is listed in CITES Appendix II. Sourcing practices still vary, so buy from sellers who explain where their wood comes from.