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UPDATED: Dec 3, 2025
It has come to our attention that there are growing concerns on social media about the sustainability of the Palo Santo Bursera Graveolens tree.
We would like to clarify that we only use Bursera Graveolens in our products, and not the Palo Santo Bulnesia Sarmientoi species.
However, we are aware that there has been an increase in the spread of misinformation, or #FakeNews, on social media about this topic.
It is important to ensure that any information shared is based on facts and reliable sources to prevent the spread of misinformation.
In this article, we aim to clarify misconceptions about the future of Palo Santo, a sacred wood with a sweet, woody, citrus aroma and a hint of mint, known for its natural medicinal properties.
Palo Santo is native to the dry-tropical forests of Ecuador, where the surrounding communities rely on its trade for their livelihood. If they cannot find buyers for the wood, they may be forced to cut down the trees in order to use the land for other purposes, such as farming or livestock.
This is a real threat to the sustainability of the Palo Santo tree, as demonstrated by the example of La Refineria del Pacifico, where around 1000 hectares of trees, including Palo Santo, were cut down for the development of a project that is now abandoned.
Contrary to what is being suggested on social media, the real danger to the Palo Santo tree is not over-harvesting, but rather a lack of value placed on the wood. When we do not value or use Palo Santo, it becomes vulnerable to being lost.
Therefore, it is important to support the sustainable trade of Palo Santo to ensure the preservation of this sacred and valuable resource.
The vision of EcuadorianHands (CEO Fabrizio Vera) is the sustainable use of this resource Palo Santo Bursera Graveolens. We focus on what we can control. For us this is an educational project, to involve the communities and to teach them not to cut the tree. A cut tree lacks the medicinal properties and aroma of Palo Santo, rendering it valueless.
VERY IMPORTANT: We only process naturally dead branches and trunks, without damaging the surrounding area or creating new paths. There is no harvesting of Palo Santo, only the collection (pick up) of naturally deceased wood. We believe in preserving the health and integrity of the ecosystem and the Palo Santo trees within it.
Have you considered that the Palo Santo we are using now is 50+ years old?
Do you like its aroma and medicinal properties Can you imagine what the dry-tropical forest was like at that time?
Now, can you imagine how would it be withing 30+ years? How the aroma and medicinal properties of Palo Santo would be?
It is for this reason that our work is integral: To restore several areas of the Dry-Tropical Forest of Manabi, returning to nature the resources provided, achieve the preservation of the aroma and the medicinal benefits of this sacred wood.
Annually and for 5 consecutive years we have been reforesting Palo Santo trees in our pilot project of 50 hectares. Moreover, for over 10 years we have been reforesting and donating plants to several institutions.
We have also involved then national government of Ecuador. We are currently waiting for them to declare this 50-hectare area as a "protective forest", to prevent logging, invasions and damages.
We will plant 4000 Palo Santo trees more and other native species in December 2019
This pilot forest will be open to universities and communities to learn the experience, and mirror it in other areas of the dry-tropical forest of Manabi.
We are doing our part to contribute to the care of the environment and the preservation of this sacred wood, Palo Santo Bursera Graveolens.
Here are 2 tips so that you also contribute to the care of Palo Santo and enjoy it for a long time:
Buy only from companies that have a program of sustainable management, ethical, friendly to the environment, with programs of reforestation. (If we or you do NOT buy cut-wood, NOBODY is going to cut it!)
Not only use palosanto incense sticks, but Palo Santo Essential Oil and/or its derivative products (soaps, cosmetics, etc.). This way you know that the product came from trees that died naturally. You not only prevent cutting the Palo Santo, but you give your body the holistic medicinal properties (without the smoke when smudging), which are naturally found in this sacred wood. (Read How do I cleanse my soul from negativity?)
One of EcuadorianHands' key strategic plans to build a sustainable growth model with social responsibility, is the efficient management of our resources.
One question that people often have about Palo Santo is whether there is a specific season for it. The answer is that there is not a specific season for Palo Santo.
To preserve the Palo Santo forests, we limit access to the forest during the winter months (Jan to May) to ensure natural regeneration, soil health, and fauna and flora conservation.
This means that we do not source Palo Santo logs during this period of time, and we work with the stocks supplied until the rains start.
We are committed to promoting sustainable forestry, encouraging circular economy, water conservation, waste reduction (ZERO WASTE Policy), reducing carbon footprint, promoting animal welfare, and investing in the communities where we have a presence.
It is a fact that we must protect our home called EARTH. It is in our hands to use their resources responsibly, and achieve sustainability for future generations. With love!
Real sustainability: Ethically sourced palo santo. Our palo santo is responsibly harvested and eco-sustainable. It comes from our Protected Nature Reserve declared by Ecuadorian Ministry of Environment. Our palo santo sticks are certified by Ecuadorian Office AGROCALIDAD
Is the Palo Santo tree in danger of extinction?
No. The Palo Santo tree, Bursera graveolens, is not endangered. It is often confused with another species: Bulnesia sarmientoi, which is at risk. EcuadorianHands works exclusively with Bursera graveolens sustainably.
What is the difference between Bursera graveolens and Bulnesia sarmientoi?
Bursera graveolens grows in the dry forests of Ecuador and is traditionally used for its aromatic and medicinal properties. Bulnesia sarmientoi is from another region (South America) and is in an endangered category. They are not the same plant.
How is Palo Santo harvested sustainably?
Only branches and trees that have died naturally and have rested for 2 to 4 years are collected. No living trees are cut down. This ensures they retain their aroma and therapeutic properties.
What happens if a Palo Santo tree is cut down?
A tree cut before dying loses its medicinal and aromatic value. Therefore, cutting it down renders it useless. It is vital to respect its natural life cycle.
Why is there so much misinformation about Palo Santo?
Social media has spread confusion, often confusing different species. The key is to stay informed with reliable sources and transparent projects like EcuadorianHands.
What is the real risk to the Palo Santo tree?
The real danger is not overexploitation, but the lack of value it receives. If it is not consumed, communities clear forests for other uses such as agriculture or livestock.
How old is the Palo Santo used in products?
Many of the trees used today died naturally after living more than 30 years. This time is necessary for them to develop their essential oils.
Is there a season for harvesting Palo Santo?
No. But to protect the ecosystem, entry to the forest is restricted between January and May (the rainy season), allowing for natural regeneration.
What does it mean that the Palo Santo tree has a "heart"?
The "heart" of the tree contains the highest concentration of essential oils. Only trees that have died naturally develop it.
Can I visit the El Artesan EcuadorianHands Protective Forest and Vegetation?
Yes. The 50-hectare pilot forest is accessible to universities and communities to learn about and replicate sustainable practices.
What will happen if Palo Santo is no longer sold?
The forest could be replaced by monoculture plantations or other human activities. Protection depends on the value we, as consumers, place on the product.
What impact does my purchase have on global conservation?
Each product purchased funds reforestation programs, environmental education, and dry forest care. Your purchase becomes an act of purpose.
Palo Santo Tree picking up process: A journey of connection and sustainability
Is Palo Santo really endangered? Adopt a Bursera Graveolens tree!
Could the palo santo tree really contribute to the reduction of the carbon footprint?
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Comments
Atienden en USA?
By: Norma On 03/05/2023Podré encontrar sus productos en Amazon de USA?
Replied by: Fabrizio Vera On 03/09/2023
Palitos y aceite
By: Cutberto Orozco On 05/07/2022Pueden enviar productos a México?
Replied by: Fabrizio Vera On 05/08/2022
Palo Santo
By: Johanna On 02/27/2022Me gustaría saber si hacen envíos internacionales, estoy en Colombia
Replied by: Remote Support On 03/02/2022
Para la persona imdicada
By: Trinidad iris talavera On 06/21/2021Si fijese que estoy buscamdo que me agan del palosamto unas bolitas redomdws com hueco wm el centroid de las bolitas y esa bolita tiene medida que ws 4 cwmtimwtros de amcho osea todo el redesor y por 1cemtimwtro de alto esa es la medida como podria que me dineran que lo lo temgo que comprar em forma de palo .luedo que vallan a un tornero para que le aga forma redondo deseo 1.000 mil unidades o 2 mil unidad solo me dise .le wstoy wscribiwmdo desde Aruba ??
Replied by: Fabrizio Vera On 10/21/2021
Averiguar precios y cantidades por litros
By: Juan Carlos Pérez On 05/26/2021Buenas por favor necesito averiguar si el producto lo venden por litros por que necesito enviar a un familiar a España.
Replied by: Fabrizio Vera On 05/26/2021
Palo santo
By: Michelle Threlkeld On 03/13/2021Can this be planted in the United States to grow.
Replied by: Fabrizio Vera On 05/26/2021
For the love of Trees
By: Chelsea On 08/04/2020Is there any way I could purchase some Palo Santo seeds , as well as make a donation for your wonderful cause?
I can not find a reliable, sustainable source on the internet anywhere. I found your cause through another website and am moved by your dedication and stewardship for the Earth.
The Ginkgo tree is my favorite, and I’ve spent currency and energy in doin my part to keep it around. However, the Palo Santo tree has a special place in my heart. I will donate to your cause to reforest, but in a slightly selfish manner, I would love to plan some in a space suitable to their needs. I’ve been educated on harvesting, and that’s not what most interests me. My love for trees has deep roots ;) and Is be honored if I could cultivate a space for some to grow.
Much Love,
Your tree hugging and loving friend
- Chelsea