Palo Azul (Cyclolepis genistoides)

Palo Santo (Azul) is raw palo azul wood chunks from the Cyclolepis genistoides tree, sold as solid pieces for traditional decoction rather than shredded bark, powder or extract. Solid wood keeps its potency far longer than shreds. Sustainably sourced, free from artificial dyes, additives or fillers. Offered in 4oz, 8oz and 1lb.

At a glance

• Raw wood chunks of Cyclolepis genistoides, not shredded, powdered or extracted
• Prepared as a simmered decoction, not burned as incense
• Brews amber with a natural blue sheen under reflected light
• Chunks can be re-steeped for a second batch
• Offered in 4oz, 8oz and 1lb

The herb. Palo azul, the blue stick, is Cyclolepis genistoides, a spiny shrub of the Asteraceae family growing across the dry Gran Chaco of Argentina, Paraguay and Bolivia. Long simmered there as a household tea, its name comes from the amber brew's blue sheen under reflected light. It is a different plant from the aromatic Bursera palo santo burned as incense.

What's in it. When steeped, the wood releases phenolic compounds that create a natural blue tint under reflected light, signaling active flavonoids and antioxidants. A strong blue glow means fresh, potent wood, while a dull brew points to old or adulterated material.

How to use. No measure is given, so start with a few chunks in a pot of water, bring it to a gentle simmer until the water turns amber, then check for the blue sheen against a dark background. Drink one cup and see how it sits. The same chunks can be simmered a second time before they are spent; keep the strength consistent by using the same number of chunks each time.

Brewing gear. A pot and a strainer are enough, but if you want it easier: portion the chunks into 4 x 6 in disposable tea filter bags so there is nothing to strain, polish the finished tea through an unbleached #4 cone filter if you want it clear, and keep the rest of the wood in a resealable kraft bag or a 2 oz glass jar. The rest of the brewing and storage gear is in Accessories and DIY Supplies.

What to expect. Users describe a light, clean, slightly sweet tea, more refreshing than warming, that suits daily sipping hot or chilled over ice. It is not a stimulant and not a sedating evening brew.

Safety. Palo azul is generally well tolerated; documented effects are limited to mild digestive upset in some people and increased trips to the bathroom, since the tea is drunk in volume.

• Consult a professional before use if you are pregnant, nursing or taking any medication, especially medications for the kidneys or fluid balance
• This is a tea, not a smudge; it is not meant to be burned

Ingredients and storage. Raw palo azul wood chunks (Cyclolepis genistoides), nothing added. Store dry in a sealed container away from humidity; properly stored wood holds its potency for years.

Common questions

• Is Palo Santo (Azul) the same as the palo santo sticks used for burning? No, this is palo azul wood from Cyclolepis genistoides, a different tree, prepared as a tea rather than burned.
• Why does palo azul tea look blue? Phenolic compounds in the wood fluoresce blue under reflected light, which is also a sign of fresh, potent material.

Disclaimer. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Palo azul is a traditional botanical, and traditional use does not establish that it will produce any particular result. Consult your healthcare provider before use if you take any medication or have a medical condition. Use at your own risk and keep out of reach of children. Formulated by Healing Herbals, run by a practicing herbalist of 13+ years.