Palo Santo, which means "holy wood" in Spanish, is a type of sacred wood derived from the Bursera graveolens tree, native to the coastal regions of South America, particularly in Peru, Ecuador, and the Galápagos Islands. The wood is known for its distinctive, sweet, and aromatic fragrance when burned, often used in smudging rituals to purify spaces, enhance meditation, or promote relaxation. Palo Santo is often sold in sticks or chips and is considered part of shamanic practices in various cultures. The tree is protected and harvested sustainably, as only naturally fallen branches are used to make Palo Santo products.