Quick Summary

Palo Santo (Bursera graveolens) is a plant whose essential oils have been studied primarily for their antimicrobial properties, especially antifungal effects. The volatile organic compounds from forest plants, including species similar to Bursera graveolens, have shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects through inhalation, potentially influencing mood and cognitive function. However, clinical evidence specific to Palo Santo is limited and pending.

What is it?

Palo Santo is a tree native to South America, commonly known for its fragrant wood and essential oils. The oils are extracted from the wood and used traditionally in incense, aromatherapy, and natural remedies. It belongs to the family Burseraceae and is valued for its aromatic resinous properties.

Traditional Uses

Traditionally, Palo Santo has been burned as incense for spiritual purification and relaxation. Indigenous cultures use it in ritual ceremonies and as a natural remedy for minor ailments, although detailed traditional medicinal applications vary by region and are primarily anecdotal.

Active Compounds

The essential oils of Palo Santo contain volatile organic compounds including limonene, pinene, and other terpenes. These compounds contribute to its characteristic aroma and have been studied for their biological activities such as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.

Potential Benefits with Evidence Levels

  • Antifungal activity (Preclinical evidence): Essential oils from various plants, including Bursera graveolens, have demonstrated in vitro and in vivo antifungal activity against species such as Aspergillus, Penicillium, Cladosporium, and Alternaria. These findings suggest potential use in food preservation and antimicrobial applications.
  • Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects via volatile organic compounds inhalation (Preclinical and limited translational evidence): Forest volatile organic compounds like limonene and pinene, components related to those found in Palo Santo essential oils, have been associated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on the airways. Some studies suggest possible relaxation and cognitive benefits, although these effects are derived mainly from environmental exposure studies rather than direct clinical trials with Palo Santo.

Side Effects

No clinical data on adverse effects of Palo Santo or its essential oils in humans were identified in the available sources. General caution is advised, especially when inhaling or applying essential oils topically, due to possible irritation or allergic reactions.

Drug Interactions

No information on drug interactions with Palo Santo or its constituents was found in the reviewed research data.

Who Should Avoid It

There is no specific evidence indicating contraindications for Palo Santo. However, due to insufficient safety data, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should exercise caution and consult healthcare professionals before use. People with known sensitivities or allergies to essential oils should also avoid or be cautious with Palo Santo.

Evidence Limitations

The evidence for Palo Santo is limited to preclinical studies and related environmental inhalation research. No randomized controlled trials or clinical trials specific to Bursera graveolens were identified. Most antifungal and health effects data are derived from studies of essential oils in general or forest volatile organic compounds, not direct human clinical evidence. Safety, adverse effects, and drug interaction profiles remain inadequately characterized for this herb.

References

  • Abdi-Moghadam Z, et al. The significance of essential oils and their antifungal properties in the food industry: A systematic review. 2023. PubMed. DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e21386. PMC: PMC10637975.
  • Antonelli M, et al. Forest Volatile Organic Compounds and Their Effects on Human Health: A State-of-the-Art Review. 2020. PubMed. DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17186506. PMC: PMC7559006.
  • Ng JY, et al. Operational definition of complementary, alternative, and integrative medicine derived from a systematic search. 2022. PubMed. DOI: 10.1186/s12906-022-03556-7. PMC: PMC9006507.

Last Reviewed

June 2024

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or herbal supplement usage.