Palo Santo, which translates to "holy wood" in Spanish, comes from the Bursera graveolens tree, a sacred tree native to the coastal regions of South America. While its use in smudging rituals to cleanse energy is well-known, brewing it as a tea offers a different, but equally potent, method of enjoying its properties. The practice of steeping the wood in hot water allows the therapeutic compounds within the resin to be released in a gentle, flavorful manner, providing a holistic beverage experience.
The Science Behind Palo Santo Tea
To understand the potent effects of Palo Santo tea, one must look at the natural compounds contained within the wood itself. The wood's resin is rich in beneficial organic compounds, with terpenes being particularly notable.
Key Phytochemicals
- Limonene: This compound, also found in citrus peels, is a major component of Palo Santo essential oils. It is well-documented for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), and anti-anxiety properties.
- Antioxidants: Palo Santo is rich in antioxidants, which are crucial for combating oxidative stress and supporting the body's natural recovery processes.
- Terpenoids: The wood contains other terpenoids and limonoids that contribute to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
Antioxidant Power
Brewing Palo Santo tea is an effective way to extract the wood's antioxidant compounds. These molecules help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to aging and various diseases. By incorporating this tea into your routine, you can support your body's immune defense and overall cellular health.
Wellness Benefits of Palo Santo Tea
The therapeutic compounds in Palo Santo wood translate into a range of wellness benefits when consumed as a tea.
Stress and Anxiety Relief
One of the most praised benefits is its calming effect on the nervous system. The fragrant, woody, and citrusy aroma released during brewing and consumption can induce a sense of peace and relaxation. This can be a particularly helpful ritual to unwind after a stressful day or to prepare for meditation.
Digestive Support
Traditional healers have long used Palo Santo as a remedy for stomach issues. Palo Santo tea is known to act as a natural digestive aid, helping to reduce symptoms of indigestion and bloating. It provides a soothing effect on the digestive tract, making it a gentle way to support gut health.
Anti-inflammatory Effects
The limonene and other anti-inflammatory compounds found in Palo Santo may help reduce bodily inflammation. For centuries, indigenous communities have used it to provide relief for conditions like arthritis and joint pain. While a cup of tea is not a cure, it can be a supportive addition to an anti-inflammatory lifestyle.
Respiratory Comfort
Historically, the wood and oil have been used to address respiratory ailments like colds, coughs, and flu symptoms. The tea can provide a comforting, warm brew to soothe throat and chest congestion, especially when combined with honey. It is important to note that this is different from inhaling the smoke from burning the wood, which should be done cautiously, especially by those with respiratory sensitivities.
Brewing Your Own Palo Santo Tea
Making your own Palo Santo tea is a simple and intentional process. It requires sustainably sourced wood shavings or small sticks to ensure you are respecting the tree's tradition and promoting ethical harvesting.
What you'll need:
- Small piece of sustainably sourced Palo Santo wood or shavings
- Water
- Pot
- Strainer
Instructions:
- Chop the Palo Santo wood into small shavings if you are using a stick. A knife can be used carefully for this.
- Boil a few cups of water in a pot.
- Add the Palo Santo shavings to the boiling water.
- Simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes to allow the compounds to infuse. For a stronger brew, simmer longer.
- Remove from heat and strain the tea to remove the wood pieces.
- Enjoy warm, or let it cool for a refreshing iced tea. You can add honey or other herbs like lemongrass to modify the taste.
Comparison: Palo Santo Tea vs. Burning
| Aspect | Palo Santo Tea | Burning Palo Santo Wood |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Benefit | Internal wellness, digestion, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant support | External atmosphere cleansing, aromatherapy, insect repellent |
| Scent Profile | Milder, more subtle woody and citrus notes | Stronger, more intense smoke with notes of pine, citrus, and mint |
| Absorption Method | Ingestion of compounds from the brewed wood | Inhalation of aromatic smoke |
| Experience | A mindful, comforting, and warming beverage ritual | An energetic cleansing ritual often used for meditation or setting intentions |
| Practical Use | Supports daily health and wellness from within | Purifies a space, uplifts mood, and repels insects |
Conclusion: A Holistic Approach
Incorporating Palo Santo tea into your routine offers a gentle yet powerful way to experience the benefits of this sacred wood. From providing digestive comfort and anti-inflammatory support to promoting mental clarity and stress relief, it serves as a wonderful tool for holistic wellness. As with any herbal remedy, it's wise to consult a healthcare professional, especially if you are pregnant or have existing health concerns. When sourced responsibly, Palo Santo tea can be a meaningful and beneficial part of your self-care practice.
Potential Risks and Considerations
While Palo Santo tea is generally considered safe when prepared correctly, it is essential to be mindful of potential risks. For example, some individuals may experience sensitivity to its compounds. It is always best to perform a small patch test if applying the essential oil topically, though this is less of a concern with consuming the tea. Also, sourcing your Palo Santo from reputable, sustainable providers is crucial to honor the tradition and protect the vulnerable tree population.
FAQs
Question: What does Palo Santo tea taste like? Answer: Palo Santo tea has a distinctive, complex flavor with notes of wood, citrus, and a hint of mint. It can have a natural bitterness, which can be balanced by adding honey or other herbs.
Question: Is Palo Santo tea safe to drink every day? Answer: In moderation, Palo Santo tea is generally safe for daily consumption. However, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have pre-existing medical conditions, it is best to consult a healthcare professional first.
Question: Can I use Palo Santo tea for meditation? Answer: Yes, the calming and grounding aroma of Palo Santo tea can help create a sense of peace and mindfulness, making it an excellent accompaniment for meditation or other relaxation rituals.
Question: Where can I find sustainably sourced Palo Santo wood? Answer: Look for suppliers who can provide proof of ethical sourcing, such as certification from the Peruvian Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation (SERFOR). Sustainable harvesting ensures the wood is only collected from naturally fallen trees.
Question: How does Palo Santo tea help with anxiety? Answer: The limonene and other terpenes found in Palo Santo can affect the brain's olfactory system, stimulating a relaxation response and helping to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
Question: Does Palo Santo tea provide spiritual benefits? Answer: Yes, in many traditional practices, Palo Santo is used to cleanse negative energy and promote positive vibrations. Drinking the tea is believed by some to support inner clarity and spiritual connection.
Question: Can I reuse the Palo Santo wood shavings to make another cup of tea? Answer: For the strongest brew, it is best to use fresh shavings. However, you can reuse the wood for a second, milder cup of tea. After the second use, the wood is likely to have released most of its compounds.
Question: How is Palo Santo tea different from Palo Azul tea? Answer: Palo Santo tea is made from the wood of the Bursera graveolens tree, offering citrus and woody notes. Palo Azul is brewed from a different type of bark (Eysenhardtia polystachya) and is known for its distinctive blue fluorescence when brewed.
Citations
[1] Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts. "Palo Santo Uses and Benefits." banyantree.com. Accessed October 11, 2025. [2] Black Dahlia CBD Botanicals. "The Benefits of Palo Santo." blackdahlia.co. Accessed October 11, 2025. [3] Shamans Market. "7 Magical Benefits of Palo Santo." shamansmarket.com. Accessed October 11, 2025. [4] Snug Scent. "Discover Palo Santo: Uses, Benefits, And More." snugscent.co.uk. Accessed October 11, 2025. [5] The Holistic Ingredient. "The Magic of Palo Santo (and how to use it)." theholisticingredient.com. Accessed October 11, 2025.
