How to Burn Palo Santo is more than just a question—it's a calming ritual that sets the tone for intention-setting, energy clearing, or simply making your space smell amazing.

Whether you're just starting with this sacred wood or refining your smudging practice, this guide will walk you through exactly how to burn Palo Santo safely and effectively.

What Is Palo Santo?

Palo Santo, meaning "Holy Wood" in Spanish, comes from the Bursera graveolens tree native to South America. Traditionally used by shamans in Peru and Ecuador, it's known for its calming, grounding aroma and is often used in spiritual cleansing and energy balancing.

Step-by-Step: How to Burn Palo Santo

Step 1: Choose the Right Palo Santo

Start with a high-quality, sustainably sourced Palo Santo stick. For the best burn, use dry, aged wood like what you'll find in our Empowering Wand set.

Step 2: Light It Safely

Hold one end of the Palo Santo stick at a 45-degree angle. Use a lighter or candle to ignite the tip. Let the flame burn for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, then gently blow it out. You should see glowing embers and rising smoke.

Step 3: Let the Smoke Work

Move the smoking stick around your space, body, or object you wish to cleanse. Many people walk around their home in a clockwise motion to guide the energy out.

Step 4: Rest or Relight

Place the stick in a fireproof bowl or ceramic holder. Let it smolder or relight as needed. Palo Santo typically burns in short bursts and may need relighting multiple times.

Step 5: Ventilate!

Yes, always open a window or door to allow the smoke (and the energy it's clearing) to leave the space. This also prevents excessive smoke buildup.

Should You Burn It All at Once?

Not at all! One stick of Palo Santo can be used multiple times. Think of it like incense—light it when needed, then safely extinguish and reuse.

Combo Ritual: Palo Santo + White Sage

For deeper cleansing, pair Palo Santo with White Sage. Burn White Sage first to deeply clear the energy, then follow with Palo Santo to invite peace and harmony.

Want an easy way to try this combo? Try our Empowering Wand Set, which includes sustainably sourced White Sage and Peruvian Palo Santo bundled together.

Other Perfect Pairings with Palo Santo

• Crystals – Use Palo Santo to cleanse your crystals energetically before meditation.
• Meditation Sessions – Burn before you meditate to set the mood.
• Essential Oils – Apply Palo Santo oil to pulse points for grounding energy.
• Incense Alternatives – Want the scent without flames? Try our Palo Santo Incense Cones for a longer-lasting, no-fuss aroma experience.

Final Tips for Safe and Effective Use

• Always use a fireproof dish.
• Never leave a burning stick unattended.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Store sticks in a dry, cool place for the best aroma.

Ready to Begin?

Explore our ethically crafted Palo Santo bundles and incense at AuraWell:

• Empowering Wand (Palo Santo + White Sage)
• Palo Santo Incense Cones

Happy smudging—and may your energy always be good vibes only!