How to Use Sacred Oils Without Cultural Appropriation or Environmental Harm
Respecting the Sacred While Supporting the Earth
If you've ever felt torn between using sacred tools like Palo Santo or Frankincense and the ethics of where they come from, you’re not alone. These botanicals carry deep spiritual and cultural significance, and their increasing popularity has raised important concerns about overharvesting, cultural appropriation, and sustainability.
But what if you could honor tradition, protect ecosystems, and empower communities all while using products you love? That's the goal. And Young Living is pioneering a new standard based in reverence for the earth and a passion for uplifting the local communities. Here’s what you need to know, especially as you explore their new "Smoke and Sage" oil blend.
Sacred, Not Stripped: Ethical Palo Santo Practices
Palo Santo, or “holy wood,” has been used for centuries by Indigenous South American cultures. Misuse and mass-market demand have led to unsustainable harvesting and a detachment from its sacred roots. YL approaches this differently:
Only harvests trees that die naturally and rest on the forest floor for 3–5 years.
Trees grow only from seeds pooped by native parrots—nature literally decides what grows.
Works with the Ecuadorian government and the Ministry of Environment to ensure legal and ethical sourcing.
Planted 700+ trees in 2023, with continued reforestation efforts planned.
Leftover wood is used by local women artisans to create incense—nothing goes to waste.
Young Living’s Palo Santo Forest in Ecuador isn’t just a resource, but it’s a protected, regenerative ecosystem. And that above? That’s just scratching the surface.
From Sustainable to Regenerative Farming
Sustainable practices aim to "do less harm." Regenerative farming goes a step further—it heals and rebuilds ecosystems. At Young Living’s global farms, including Finca Botanica in Ecuador:
No-till farming and composting plant waste enhance soil health.
Only native plants are cultivated, supporting pollinators and local biodiversity.
Trees are planted in biological corridors to reconnect fragmented habitats.
Full-circle usage of plant materials—nothing is wasted.
This commitment goes beyond trend; it's a long-term investment in planetary health.
Empowering Local & Indigenous Communities
Young Living believes in creating ethical, respectful partnerships with the communities they work in:
Farm labor is provided solely by local Ecuadorians.
The Young Living Academy in Ecuador provides world-class education and scholarships to local children.
The La Bromelia Artisan Collective supports women artisans through fair-trade incense and crafts.
Every purchase supports education, economic empowerment, and environmental guardianship.
Frankincense: Ancient Roots, Modern Integrity
Boswellia sacra (Sacred Frankincense) and Boswellia carterii are not officially endangered, but they are vulnerable due to overharvesting. Young Living helps protect them:
Established the first commercial Sacred Frankincense distillery in Oman with local partners.
Resin is harvested using respectful, sustainable hydrodistillation.
Collaboration with Dr. Mahmoud Suhail ensures scientific and cultural stewardship.
Expansion is supported by the Omani government and rooted in traditional knowledge.
With ethical partnerships and stringent standards, YL is focused on alchemizing concern into conservation.
Seed to Seal®: The Gold Standard for Integrity
Young Living's Seed to Seal commitment means every bottle is traceable, ethical, and sustainable:
Full traceability from seed to shelf.
Zero shortcuts in quality or environmental responsibility.
Ongoing global conservation projects—from Hawaii to Ecuador.
This isn’t greenwashing. It’s a model for what conscious business looks like.
Honoring the Sacred, Not Appropriating It
Using sacred botanicals like Palo Santo and Frankincense isn’t inherently wrong, but context, education, and intention matter.
Learn the cultural history.
Buy from transparent, ethical sources.
Use these tools with reverence, not as aesthetic trends.
Sacred oils aren’t commodities. They’re gifts. When you choose consciously sourced oils from regenerative farms, you’re not just caring for your energy—you’re honoring the cultures and ecosystems they come from.
Why This Matters: A New Path Forward
The spiritual world should never come at the cost of the physical one. With Young Living:
You cleanse your space without clearing a forest.
You diffuse Palo Santo with a clear conscience.
You support sacred traditions without cultural appropriation.
So next time someone asks, “But is that ethical?” You can say: “Yes. Absolutely. And here’s why.”
Further Reading & Resources:
Want to experience the new “Smoke and Sage” blend for yourself, with all the intention and none of the harm? Get it (and my other spiritual oil recs) here
