The smudge apothecary inside Namaste Bookshop · 2 W 14th St · Find usOpen daily from 11 AMReserve online, pick up in store

Palo santo basics

Palo santo is a fragrant wood, usually sold as short sticks. Unlike a sage bundle, a stick goes out on its own after a short smolder, so it is easy to use in small doses.

Lighting

  1. Hold the stick at a 45-degree angle over a flame for 30 seconds or so.
  2. Let it burn briefly, then blow it out; a thin ribbon of sweet smoke follows.
  3. Wave it gently or rest it in a fire-safe bowl.

Putting it out and relighting

It usually stops by itself within a minute or two. If not, press the tip into sand. Relight the same end next time.

Storing

Keep sticks in a dry, closed box away from sunlight so the wood keeps its scent.

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