Palo Santo is traditionally burned by people of indigenous cultures in Latin America for a variety of reasons. Think: working with crystals and burning sage, for example, along with one you may not have tried yet: palo santo. But wait is using palo santo cultural appropriation? The IUCN has declared Palo Santo to be of least concern on a global scale; however, national governments also determine a plants regional conservation status. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/products/palo-santo-smudge-sticks/profile I'll edit the original post to include a link as well. Can we get the same spiritual effect from a questionably sourced box of sticks snagged on Amazon? The flames are then gently blown out and the smoke, which heals the mind, heart and body, is wafted over the person, either by hand or with an eagle feather. So for natives yall can respect sage but not Latinos ? Non-native peoples use of smudge products are often well-intentioned but this appropriation is still harmful and the exploitation of smudge is only a part of a larger issue. A Step-by-Step Guide for Musicians. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.). Were I in your shoes, Id look for some way to use it that isnt smudging. Once they do, they field-dress the trunks with machetes by hacking away at the termite-softened bark to reveal the trees heart, then pack the wood into woven bags, strap it to the backs of their bikes, and return to the manufacturing area. Recent international interest in palo santo as a spiritual aid is increasing the woods value, and in some cases, affecting how local communities regard the tree and its ecosystem. Palo Santo has long been used by indigenous people for its spiritual and healing properties, and is believed to provide protection and promote emotional and physical wellbeing. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. But just because its not on the watch list doesnt mean it isnt threatened. Whats in abundance? Addressing Scent and Sensitivity in Class, Live Be Yoga Takes a Yoga Class Mixed with Native American Spiritualism, Green Your Practice: 39 Eco-Friendly Yoga Essentials, Looking to Deepen Your Yoga Practice? Since I (hypothetically) got it as a gift, rather than my own volition, I wouldnt feel at fault? Edit: Here's the website https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/products/palo-santo-smudge-sticks/profile. Theres no question all things energetically cleansing are having a moment right now despite their roots in ancient history. Burning these sticks is a sacred practice used by Indigenous communities of the Andes to cleanse their space and ward off evil spirits. To be able to plant trees of Palo Santo, you need the seed which is obtained from the trees that are in the forest. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". Because of all that complicated history of sage burning, when non-Native people use white sage to "smudge" their homes or other spaces, it infringes upon the cultural importance and authenticity of the ritual and Firstly, there is the question of whether it is morally acceptable to sell a product that has been taken from its native region and is being sold for a much higher price than what the indigenous people receive for it. If youre not a member of an Indigenous community, purchasing white sage, Palo Santo, or other sacred herbs and quickly Googling how to smudge will not make The rush to decode our DNA has awakened many of us to our own complex heritages. Many western fans of palo santo first learned about this aromatic wood through their explorations of the indigenous healing modalities of the Amazon basin. We appreciate Italian and Japanese cultures by celebrating their contributions to our beautiful, confusing, eclectic, and interwoven global reality.So what about Palo Santo? Do dried sage leaves ever spoil? Culture should be spread not confined. (Kunth) Triana & Planch. Non-native peoples use of smudge products are often well-intentioned but, When you reach a window or door, waft the smoke into all four corners, beginning at the bottom left and moving in a, Some people do this [smudge] every day, as a ritual or way to start their day. The term "cultural appropriation" has been used to describe everything from makeup and hairstyles to tattoos, clothing and even food and wellness practices. First you start with a simple intention of focusing on clearing the negative energy out of your space and mind. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Palo Santo means holy wood best known for its ability to add positivity to your space whereas sage removes negativity. Is it an appropriation of Japanese culture to learn karate? Thats my two cents, at least. Burning Palo Santo and doing some cleaning! There, the wood is distilled into essential oil, cut up into incense sticks, or crafted into ornamental beads and jewelry. Peruvian history is in many ways different from US history, so I returned once again to my Peruvian friend for guidance. But you cant have this.. So in theory, if you are careful and do your research, your palo santo purchase may support positive development in certain regions. The sale of Palo Santo in non-indigenous markets raises a number of ethical considerations. Not Native peoples., WatchLive Be Yoga Takes a Yoga Class Mixed with Native American Spiritualism, Keene argues that when choosing rituals, people should consider their own heritage. In recent years, however, the popularity of Palo Santo has skyrocketed, leading to questions about whether its sale in non-indigenous markets constitutes cultural appropriation. But what is it and why are people burning it? The last room you smudge should be the one with the front door. Like they get mad when their not included in everything? It also covers the overharvesting implications. WebAnswer (1 of 3): Burning sage is not cultural appropriation. Any insights on this would be greatly appreciated :). Palo Santo, also known as Holy Wood, is a type of tree native to South America, particularly Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia. In a 2018 essay published on her Native Appropriations bloga forum for discussing representations of Native peoplesshe penned a tremendously moving argument against non-indigenous use of smudging sticks. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Use this popup to embed a mailing list sign up form. This is the tree often used for spiritual purposes. To this end, in addition to the articles and books mentioned above, Rachel Rickettss Spiritual Activism courses provide a great primer on cultural appropriationand more books and courses are just a Google away. Always buy from a reputable retailer to make sure your palo santo is responsibly sourced. But what is it and why are people burning it? Its a calming ritual and so allow a little time . The flames are then gently blown out and the smoke, which heals the mind, heart and body, is wafted over the person, either by hand or with an eagle feather. Also, read: How Often Should You Sage your House? The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. Recently she traveled to northern Peru where palo santo grows and spoke with the farmers who cultivate it (possibly illegally). For non-Native people, the burning of Palo Santo and white sage ( which is now endangered) is nothing short of cultural appropriation. Trends like this negate the actual importance behind the practice, giving non-Native folk the idea that they can commodify cultures for their own personal benefit. It is not surprising that she By listening to locals, honoring traditions, supporting communities, and giving credit and compensation at every turn, we can support a cultural exchange that truly is appreciation, not appropriation. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. What kind of sage is not cultural appropriation? Then, direct or push the energy out the window to get rid of it. I urge you to read Dr. Keenes entire post. Wondering if you can burn sage yourself? Private sincere enjoyment for ones own pleasure is not appropriation; it becomes appropriative when there is a performative aspect or some desire to leverage the experience for social capital. Since 2010, according to the UN, tens of thousands of saplings have been planted in this fragile landscape to support the next generation of oil harvesting. We also know that this article on how to burn sage is not the only harmful story in our catalogue. However, there are potential risks associated with its use, including the release of toxic chemicals when burned. Your email address will not be published. This month, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) for the first time released a review of bursera graveolenss conservation status and declared it of least concern.. WebMy supplier farms Palo Santo (which is actually fairly fast growing). Because of all that complicated history of [] It has been used by indigenous people for centuries for its spiritual and healing properties, and is believed to provide protection and promote emotional and physical wellbeing. Its also used to clear out negative energy. What is the meaning of burning Palo Santo? By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. The thing is, most people ARENT using it correctly and/or do it for the aesthetic. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Palo santo is a traditional remedy for pain, inflammation, and stress. I remember asking when I bought them if they were ethically sourced (because I knew at the time the wood was endangered did not know about the burning of it being a closed practice, though), and the shopkeeper said yes. I know that white people burning sage and palo Santo is considered cultural appropriation, but haven't heard much about incense sticks. We as POC cannot demand to be equal and integrate if we are also going to horde our culture to ourselves, we cant have it both ways. I just feel guilty for having it even tho I didnt know I would be receiving it. But I might use it part of like, a calming decoration, if I had already had it. Exploring the World of Knowledge and Understanding. It does not store any personal data. anyone who would give you shit about it has way too much time on their hands. But what is it and why are people burning it? We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". With the wellness world latching onto their energy-clearing benefits, these plants are becoming increasingly endangered and over-harvested. Web2023 Premium Palo Santo Milled (bursera Graveolens) / Peruvian Palo Santo / 100% Organic / Natural Incense , Find Complete Details about 2023 Premium Palo Santo Milled (bursera Graveolens) / Peruvian Palo Santo / 100% Organic / Natural Incense,Palo Santo Powder / Palo Santo Milled / Bursera Graveolens / 100% Organic,Holy Wood / Palo Non-native peoples use of smudge products are often well-intentioned but this appropriation is still harmful and the exploitation of smudge is only a part of a larger issue. Its holistic origins are rooted in Latin cultures. Thank you to those who generously reached out to call us in, and we are deeply sorry for perpetuating this offensive line of thinking. Use the oil to provide pain relief for arthritis and joint pain with its anti-inflammatory properties. This will throw some flowers which carry the seeds. I want to thank all of the land stewards and spirits of the land. Its time to begin smudging! While its unlikely that all of these harvested trees were bound for the wellness and ritualistic markets, demand combined with illegal and unsustainable practices may result in Peruvian palo santo forests disappearing forever. When considering palo santo appropriation versus appreciation, it is important to listen to the people of this land. Is Palo Santo ethical? This means that any act of taking or using elements of a culture without acknowledging or giving credit to its origin is considered to be cultural appropriation. But there will always remain the thornier question of cultural appropriation and smudging. For one, its not even indigenous to all of Latin America. Because of all that complicated history of sage burning, when non-Native people use white sage to "smudge" their homes or other spaces, it infringes upon the First, lets clear up some confusion. 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