Palo Santo: How to Use It, Why You’ll Love It & How It Helps You Reset

If you’ve ever felt the energy in your space shift after someone walks in… or noticed how certain objects carry an emotional “weight”… then you already understand why tools like Palo Santo have been used for centuries. Known as “holy wood,” this beautiful, grounding material is beloved for its gentle power to clear the air — emotionally, energetically, and physically.

Whether you’re new to energy cleansing or simply looking for an easy ritual to feel more balanced and at peace, Palo Santo might be the perfect place to start.

What Is Palo Santo?

Palo Santo comes from the fallen branches of the Bursera graveolens tree, native to South America. Traditionally used in spiritual ceremonies, it’s now known and loved around the world for its calming and cleansing effects.

It has a soft, warm, slightly citrusy scent — think woodsy with a hint of sweetness — and burns slowly, making it ideal for short rituals or mindful moments.

Why Use Palo Santo?

Here are just a few reasons people reach for Palo Santo:

• Clear stagnant or negative energy from your space, objects, or self.
  
  

• Ease emotional overwhelm and encourage a sense of peace or clarity.
  
  

• Support intentional rituals like journaling, meditation, or setting intentions.
  
  

• Create a moment of calm in busy mornings or post-work evenings.
  
  

Think of it as a natural reset — not to fix what’s broken, but to gently clear away what no longer serves you.

How to Use Palo Santo Safely

If you’ve never used Palo Santo before, don’t worry — it’s incredibly simple and doesn’t require any fancy equipment (though a heatproof dish or holder is helpful, and available in our shop).

Here’s how to use it safely and intentionally:

1. Set your intention. Before lighting, pause to ask: What do I want to release or invite in? This could be as simple as “I want to clear the stress of the day” or “I want to feel grounded.”
   
   

2. Light the end of the stick. Hold the stick over a flame - preferably a candle - for around 30 seconds to allow a flame to form. Then gently blow it out. This allows the stick to smoulder and release its fragrant smoke.
   
   

3. Move mindfully. Gently wave the smoke around your space, or allow it to pass over your body gently. You could walk around the room, use it to cleanse crystals, or simply sit with the scent during your wellness practice. Please hold a plate ot holder under the stick while moving to catch any falling embers.
   
   

4. Place it in a holder. Let the stick rest safely in a heatproof bowl or dish while it continues to burn. The smoke will usually stop on its own within a minute or two — Palo Santo doesn’t stay lit for long, which is part of its beauty.
   
   

5. Repeat as needed. Use it in the morning to set the tone for your day, after visitors leave your home, or anytime your energy feels a bit unbalanced.
   
   

Note: Always keep burning Palo Santo within sight, and never leave it unattended. Open a window if you’d like to allow the energy (and smoke) to flow out.

How Often Should I Use It?

There’s no hard rule here — it’s really about tuning into how you feel. Some of our customers burn Palo Santo daily as part of a short morning routine. Others prefer to use it weekly, or in response to emotional shifts like stress, anxiety, or change.

The key is to use it intuitively and let it support you, not overwhelm you with pressure to “get it right.”

What About Sustainability?

This is such an important question — and one we love that our community asks. The Palo Santo we stock is ethically and sustainably sourced, gathered only from fallen branches and deadwood (never from live trees). It’s important to us that your wellness rituals support both your own energy and the earth’s.

Ready to Begin?

We offer bundles of Palo Santo — perfect for first-time users or regular rituals — along with ceramic holders that help you burn it safely and beautifully. Whether you’re clearing your space, setting a fresh intention, or just want a moment of quiet peace, we hope Palo Santo supports you because even a few breaths of intention can change everything.

AUTHOR: LEANNA DOOLIN

Co – Founder of holistic skincare brand, Pure Thoughts and advocate for women finding pause in their day to breathe deeply, give thanks and reconnect to what matters. Loves early mornings, dogs and books that you can’t put down.