palo santo vs. sage: choosing the right energy for your space

when it comes to grounding a space, clearing energy, or creating a calming environment, palo santo and sage are two of the most popular choices. both have roots in rich cultural traditions, with unique histories and energies that make them feel worlds apart despite their shared purpose. choosing between palo santo and sage often comes down to understanding the subtle differences in what they bring to a space—and respecting the origins and intentions behind each.

palo santo: inviting good energy

palo santo, or “holy wood,” originates in south america and has been used for centuries in spiritual practices by indigenous communities, especially in peru and ecuador. palo santo is known for its rich, sweet, almost citrusy scent that feels comforting and light. unlike sage, which is often used to completely cleanse or “wipe” the energy of a space, palo santo has a gentler, more inviting quality. it’s like refreshing the air rather than clearing it entirely, lifting the energy without disrupting it too much. palo santo is often thought to invite good vibes and elevate the energy of a room, bringing in positivity rather than simply removing negativity.

if you’re looking for a softer, uplifting energy that enhances the existing vibe of a space, palo santo is a natural choice. it’s like adding a subtle boost, clearing out only what needs to go and leaving room for warmth and light. for creative spaces or cozy corners where you want to feel inspired and at ease, palo santo provides a subtle but refreshing shift in energy.

sage: deep clearing and purification

sage, particularly white sage, has a long history in indigenous north american practices, especially among native american tribes who use it in ceremonies for cleansing and protection. the process of “smudging” with sage is more intense than using palo santo; its scent is earthy, strong, and unmistakable, creating a powerful sense of cleansing that feels almost like pressing a reset button. sage is known for its ability to deeply purify a space, clearing away all energies—both positive and negative—to create a neutral, open atmosphere. it’s often used in situations where a full reset is needed, like after an argument, during times of stress, or when moving into a new space.

sage is ideal when you feel the need to completely clear out lingering energy or start fresh. it’s more of a deep cleanse, wiping the slate clean so you can set new intentions from a blank canvas. if you’re craving clarity or feel like a space needs a “hard reset,” sage offers that intensity, cutting through stagnant or heavy energy with strength and purpose.

honoring the cultural roots

both palo santo and sage come with cultural significance, and using them respectfully means acknowledging their histories. in recent years, the popularity of these practices has led to overharvesting, especially of white sage, which is now at risk due to unsustainable demand. respecting these plants means sourcing them ethically, purchasing from native and indigenous sellers when possible, and using them with intention rather than as a trend. honoring these traditions also means understanding the purposes they were meant for and not treating them as interchangeable.

choosing your ritual

the choice between palo santo and sage often depends on the energy you want to cultivate. for subtle shifts and a gentle, uplifting presence, palo santo is perfect. it invites good energy, creating a warm atmosphere without fully disrupting what’s already there. on the other hand, if you’re looking to start from scratch, to fully cleanse and prepare a space for new intentions, sage is a powerful choice that clears everything, offering a true reset.

in the end, both palo santo and sage invite us to slow down and connect with our spaces more intentionally. whether you’re using palo santo to infuse a bit of positivity or sage to clear away the past, each brings its own energy, each with a unique purpose. it’s not just about scent or smoke; it’s about creating a space that feels aligned with who you are and what you need, using these ancient practices with respect, care, and intention.