Peruvian Copal (Protium grandifolium)

Description: Black Copal, one of the most important incense-burning substances of the ancient American cultures, was believed to be a heavenly, sacred resin embodying the presence of the divine. It is written in the Mayan "Book of Wisdom" that copal was extracted from the tree of life by the divine god of the earth and given to humans as a gift. The Incas assigned copal resin to the sun and burned it on golden plates. Resin incense is harvested from the tree(s) that secrete it without any damage to the tree in the Amazonian Rainforest of Peru.

A premium Copal resin from Peru, which originates from a completely different tree then the lighter Copal’s. Peruvian Copal produces a complex multi-layered scent that is very pleasant and jovial. Copal is sacred to the indigenous cultures of the Central and South Americas. It is burned year round in the churches of Mexico but is best known for its use in the homes during Day of the Dead. It is said that the familiar scent of Copal helps the souls find their way back during their annual visit home.

How Is It Used?

If you have never experienced an incense of this type, you are in for a real treat! You only need a little bit and it lasts a very long time. It’s GREAT for mood enhancing in ALL environments- indoors or out. One of the easiest methods of burning is to light one or two pieces of barbeque coal (or any other heat source will do) and let them heat up as if you were going to use them for cooking. Once the coal is hot, all you need to do is put as much incense as you want on top of the coal. It will then begin smoking almost immediately and melt into the coal. You can continue burning incense as long as the coal remains hot. If you want to burn longer, simply place another piece of coal into the burning container with the others. It’s a wonderful way to greet guests for gatherings by burning some on your porch next to the entry door, or any place you want to set a special mood. It even smells wonderful when setting some out in the open, in a little dish or container. The fragrance is very strong either burning or unlit. Give this a try; I’m sure you’re going to love it!

Smudging is a traditional ceremony in which these herbs are burned and the smoke is used for purification and balancing of body, mind, spirit, and environment.

Smudging is a sacred tradition that has its roots in the indigenous cultures of the world. As a tradition, it has been passed on for millennia, and many ways and variations exist. The common thread is that the smoke from sacred herbs can be used for purification and spiritual preparation.

We can smudge to clear and ground our intentions and ourselves before and after healing, initiation and ritual. The smoke will help purify our crystals and other sacred objects. We can clear rooms and create sacred space. The herbs can also be burned to give thanks and to aid us in our prayers.

It has been used to accompany prayers and shamans to worship the Gods & Spirits, purify the air, release negative vibrations, and induce self-awareness and to uplift the emotional state. The burning of incense features in the practice of most of the world’s religions, past and present, and often proliferated as they did. Memory and smell are heavily intertwined. Certain smells can transport us back in time to a memorable place or event.