The Healthy Girl Guide to Palo Santo
Palo Santo and the Role it Plays in My Morning Routine
In my morning routine, something that is very important to me is the energy I bring into the day. I have a couple of different AM routines, but if I am doing the morning routine where I meditate I always do so with Palo Santo (“holy wood”)
Palo Santo I initially learned about it from my stepmom. She grew up in Ecuador and Palo Santo is native to Ecuador and a few other South American countries. It is a sacred wood used for spiritual and energy cleansing. Before you tell me this is too granola-crunchy for you, let’s get into it.
The Top Benefits of Palo Santo
The Medical Benefits:
While further studies still need to be conducted, there has been some preclinical research on the main component of Palo Santo called Limeone. Limeone is a type of terpene, a naturally occurring compound from plants. It has a very distinct woody scent, while being found in Palo Santo it is also found in strong concentration in orange peels. In one study, it was found that Limeone had significant anti-inflammatory effects.
The Grounding Effect:
Starting the day by cleansing the energy around you and in an unstressed state is achievable by burning Palo Santo. The specific woody aroma is calming and natural, allowing you to ground, set intentions, and gain clarity for the day. People also use this sacred wood in their evening routine to relax and prepare their space for bedtime. It promotes relaxation and a sense of calm in either routine.
Aids in Intention Setting:
Due to the cleansing energy of the aromatic smoke of the Palo Santo, I think it is the perfect accompaniment to morning meditation and intention setting. I utilize my Palo Santo right before I do this daily morning meditation. For me, meditation with the cleansing of my space is the most optimal way to start my day with positive energy.
How to Palo Santo :
Set up a calm space. I like to sit in a meditative positive either with my legs up on the wall or sitting in a chair with both feet planted on the ground.
Ensure you have a fireproof bowl. Light your Palo Sano at a 45-degree angle.
Let it burn for about 30 seconds, then blow out the flame.
As you blow out, set your intention. For me, this is turning on my meditation but this could also be a mantra for the day.
Place the Palo Santo back in the fireproof dish.
Extinguish your embers in the fireproof bowl once finished.
d'Alessio PA, Ostan R, Bisson JF, Schulzke JD, Ursini MV, Béné MC. Oral administration of d-limonene controls inflammation in rat colitis and displays anti-inflammatory properties as diet supplementation in humans. Life Sci. 2013 Jul 10;92(24-26):1151-6. doi: 10.1016/j.lfs.2013.04.013. Epub 2013 May 7. PMID: 23665426.