Palo Santo, known for its distinctive sweet and woody aroma, has been used traditionally in South American cultures for spiritual cleansing and medicinal purposes. Its inclusion in perfumes is relatively recent, adding a unique and complex character to fragrances. The rich, balsamic, and slightly resinous notes of Palo Santo offer a grounding and calming effect, making it a favored choice in perfumery for adding depth and warmth. This ingredient complements various fragrance compositions, particularly those in the woody and oriental families, by providing a soothing and mystical quality. Its versatility allows it to blend well with citrus, floral, and spicy notes, creating a harmonious balance within the fragrance.
Natural or Synthetic?
Palo Santo is used both in its natural and synthetic forms in perfumery. Natural Palo Santo oil is extracted from the wood of the Bursera graveolens tree, typically through steam distillation. The process involves grounding the wood and passing steam through the material to extract the essential oil. The natural oil is preferred for its authenticity and depth of aroma. However, due to sustainability concerns and limited availability, synthetic alternatives are also used. These synthetics are created to mimic the scent profile of Palo Santo while offering a more consistent and readily available supply for large-scale production in perfumery.
Fragrance Families Palo Santo Most Commonly Found In
Show fragrances that contain Palo Santo as a note