The Difference Between Palo Santo and White Sage

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When it comes to cleansing rituals, two sacred plants are often at the center of discussion: palo santo and white sage. Both have ancient roots in spiritual and cultural practices, yet they are very different in their origins, uses, and symbolism. White sage is traditionally used by many Native American tribes in North America, while palo santo comes from South America and has been deeply integrated into Andean and Amazonian healing traditions.

In this article, we’ll explore the differences and similarities between palo santo and white sage, looking at their spiritual uses, health benefits, historical significance, and cultural perspectives. We’ll also highlight five key ways they compare and differ so you can better understand which plant may be right for your intentions.

1. Historical and Cultural Roots

White Sage and Native American Traditions

White sage (Salvia apiana) grows naturally in the dry landscapes of California and Baja Mexico. For centuries, Native American tribes—including the Chumash, Lakota, and Navajo—have used sage in smudging ceremonies. These rituals involve burning sage bundles to purify spaces, cleanse negative energies, and invite blessings.

The cultural roots of white sage are sacred and tied deeply to Native spirituality. The act of smudging was not just about smoke cleansing; it was about connection to the Creator, ancestors, and the earth.

Palo Santo in South American Healing

Palo santo (Bursera graveolens), meaning “holy wood” in Spanish, comes from South America, particularly Peru, Ecuador, and parts of the Amazon. Indigenous shamans and healers used palo santo in ceremonies to ward off spirits, attract positive energy, and treat ailments. Unlike sage, palo santo is not burned in large bundles but rather as small sticks.

Only dead and naturally fallen palo santo wood is traditionally harvested—considered more spiritually potent than live wood. This practice reflects respect for nature and the belief that time strengthens its healing power.

2. Spiritual Uses

White Sage for Purification

White sage is most commonly used to remove negative energy, cleanse homes, and prepare for rituals. Many Native American traditions teach that its smoke carries prayers to the spirit world, helping restore balance and harmony.

Today, many people use California white sage smudges to create a sense of peace and protection in their homes, particularly during stressful times.

Palo Santo for Positive Energy

Palo santo differs in that it is often associated with attracting good energy rather than just dispelling negativity. Its sweet, woody aroma is said to bring about clarity, calmness, and grounding. In South American traditions, palo santo is used before meditation, yoga, or healing ceremonies to welcome uplifting vibrations.

Key Difference

Think of sage as a strong purifier, while palo santo acts more as a gentle energy enhancer.

3. Health Benefits and Aromatherapy

White Sage and Physical Benefits

Burning white sage releases compounds like thujone, which may have antimicrobial properties. Studies suggest sage can help reduce airborne bacteria, making smudging not only symbolic but also beneficial for improving air quality.

Additionally, some people drink sage tea for digestive issues, sore throats, or inflammation relief.

Palo Santo and Wellness

Palo santo contains limonene, a natural compound also found in citrus peels. Limonene has anti-inflammatory and stress-relieving properties, which may explain why palo santo’s aroma feels calming and uplifting.

When used in aromatherapy, palo santo essential oil is applied for relaxation, immune support, and easing anxiety.

Health Perspective Difference

White sage is often tied to cleansing the physical and spiritual environment, while palo santo is associated with emotional uplift and relaxation.

4. Native American Perspectives and Cultural Respect

For Native American tribes, white sage is sacred and should not be reduced to a wellness trend. Overharvesting and commercialization of sage has raised serious concerns about cultural appropriation and sustainability.

Many Native voices emphasize that if non-Native individuals use sage, they should approach it with respect, gratitude, and awareness of its origins. According to the First Nations Development Institute:

“Sacred plants like sage, cedar, sweetgrass, and tobacco are central to our ceremonies and lifeways. Their use should be guided by tradition and respect.” (Source)

Palo santo also faces sustainability concerns, as increased global demand has led to questionable harvesting practices. Traditionally, palo santo is not cut from living trees but gathered only after natural death. Supporting ethical sourcing ensures both cultural and ecological preservation.

5. Practical Differences: How to Use Each

• White Sage (California White Sage Smudges):

  • Typically bundled into smudge sticks.

  • Lit and allowed to smolder, producing thick smoke.

  • Used to walk through rooms or around people for cleansing.

  • Requires a fireproof bowl or abalone shell to catch ash.

• Palo Santo (Sticks for Cleansing):

  • Small wooden sticks are lit until a flame appears, then blown out.

  • Produces a lighter smoke with a sweet, citrus-woody scent.

  • Ideal for meditation, yoga, or personal energy refresh.

  • Burns for shorter intervals, often requiring relighting.

Main Practical Difference

Sage is better for deep energy clearing, while palo santo is often chosen for personal grounding and mindfulness.

5 Key Comparisons Between Palo Santo and White Sage

1. Origin: White sage comes from North America; palo santo comes from South America.

2. Spiritual Role: Sage removes negativity; palo santo invites positivity.

3. Health Benefits: Sage has antimicrobial uses; palo santo supports relaxation and emotional balance.

4. Cultural Roots: Sage is tied to Native American ceremonies; palo santo is rooted in Andean and Amazonian traditions.

5. Practical Use: Sage burns in bundles with heavy smoke; palo santo burns in sticks with light, sweet smoke.

Conclusion

Both palo santo and white sage are powerful tools for spiritual and holistic practices. They differ in origins, methods of use, and cultural significance, but

both share a role in helping people feel more connected, grounded, and balanced.

As you choose between them, remember the importance of ethical sourcing and cultural respect. Supporting sustainably harvested palo santo and California white sage smudges honors the traditions they come from and ensures their sacred power continues for generations.

Internal Links

• Shop our California White Sage Smudges and Palo Santo collection.

• Learn more about the healing benefits of California white sage.

• Explore rituals in our article on using white sage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Palo Santo and White Sage

1. What’s the main difference between palo santo and white sage? Think of white sage as the deep cleaner and palo santo as the mood booster. Sage clears out heavy or negative energy, while palo santo invites in light, peace, and positivity. They work beautifully together—sage for cleansing, palo santo for recharging.

2. Can I use palo santo and white sage at the same time? Absolutely! Many people burn sage first to “clear the space,” then light palo santo afterward to “fill it back up” with uplifting vibes. It’s kind of like deleting bad files and then downloading good energy. Just make sure you have good ventilation and use a heat-safe bowl or abalone shell.

3. Is it okay for non-Native people to use white sage? This one’s important—yes, but it comes with responsibility. White sage is sacred to many Native American tribes, so it’s best to buy from ethical, Indigenous-owned, or sustainably sourced suppliers. Use it with gratitude and awareness, not just because it’s trendy.

4. Why does my palo santo keep going out so fast? That’s totally normal! Palo santo burns in short bursts. Light the end for about 30 seconds, blow it out, and let the fragrant smoke drift. If you want a longer burn, you’ll need to relight it every few minutes—think of it as part of the ritual.

5. Does burning sage actually kill bacteria or is that a myth? It’s not a myth! Research shows that burning white sage releases compounds that can help purify the air and reduce bacteria. So yes—it’s spiritual and a little scientific.

6. What does palo santo smell like compared to white sage? Palo santo has a sweet, woody, citrusy aroma—almost like a cozy campfire with hints of vanilla and lemon. White sage, on the other hand, has a sharper, earthier scent that instantly feels cleansing. Sage says “goodbye negativity,” while palo santo says “hey good vibes.”

7. Which one should I use for meditation or yoga? Palo santo all the way. Its gentle, uplifting scent helps you ground and focus without overpowering your space. White sage is better for big energy resets—like before a new moon ritual or after a stressful week.

8. Can I use sage or palo santo if I live in an apartment? Totally! Just crack a window or door to keep airflow going. If you’re worried about smoke, try using palo santo essential oil in a diffuser or white sage spray as a smoke-free alternative.

9. Is palo santo endangered or overharvested? That’s a common concern. Real, ethically sourced palo santo comes only from naturally fallen trees that have aged on the forest floor. Always buy from suppliers who source sustainably (like Aroma Warehouse 😉) and avoid cheap mass-market versions.

10. How do I know which one I need—sage or palo santo? Ask yourself what your space needs.

• Feeling heavy, stuck, or drained? Go with white sage to clear things out.

• Feeling anxious, scattered, or low-energy? Light palo santo to lift your spirits. Sometimes, the best answer is both—a little cleanse, then a recharge.