Origin: a Latin derivative
meaning "Gift of the Earth."
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Discover Solutions: Guaiacwood
Guaiacwood
Bulnesia sarmientoi
Guaiacwood is steam-distilled from the heartwood of the Bulnesia sarmientoi tree and has been used for centuries by Native Americans in wellness practices and ceremonies. This rich, earthy essential oil has a grounding, woody aroma with a hint of sweetness.
Usage Tips:
- Diffuse Guaiacwood to create a grounding atmosphere.
- Apply a drop or two to minor skin irritations for a soothing effect.
- Use Guaiacwood aromatically in the evening for a tranquil aroma.
Learn More
What’s Guaiacwood Essential Oil?
Our Guaiacwood essential oil comes from the heartwood of Bulnesia sarmientoi, which grows in the Gran Chacho Forest of Paraguay. Locally, the trees or harvested guaiacwood are known as palo santo. However, palo santo Bursera graveolens is separate and distinct from guaiacwood Bulnesia sarmientoi. Though they have similarities, the two essential oils are distinct, with different chemistries and aromas. Most importantly, they’re different in their ability to be harvested sustainably and ethically. Palo santo Bursera graveolens has had a long, troubled history in terms of sustainability and illegal harvesting. However, guaiacwood Bulnesia sarmientoi harvesting and production can be sustainably sourced, which is why we deliberately worked with our partner to provide this essential oil.
Guaiacwood is a complicated essential oil to produce. Its density requires it be ground into sawdust or chips for distillation—far finer than your average wood oil. After distillation, if the essential oil is left at room temperature, it becomes semisolid. This solidifying change is why our Guaiacwood comes in a base of Fractionated Coconut Oil, so the essential oil can be delivered at a consistency that easily pours from your bottle.
How to Use Guaiacwood
CPTG Certified Pure Tested Grade® Guaiacwood essential oil can be used aromatically and topically. Its deep, woody aroma supports a harmonious, rooted environment. You can enjoy the earthy-sweet scent by diffusing, applying it to your hands and wrists or neck, or simply smelling it straight from the bottle. Topical use of Guaiacwood may provide comfort to minor skin irritations and supports your skin’s natural hydration.
Guaiacwood Sourcing
Unfortunately, the Gran Chaco Forest—where Guaiacwood comes from—is one of the most rapidly deforested areas in the world. Though Paraguay has regulations and policies helping to minimize deforestation, much of the forest has already been cut down and continues to be for cattle grazing and other types of agricultural production.
So why source Guaiacwood from the Gran Chaco Forest? Sustainable sourcing from well-managed forests actually helps preserve and regenerate forested lands. As our trusted sourcing partner responsibly manages and maintains forested areas—and compensates local growers for their wood, which is used for Guaiacwood essential oil—these landowners are motivated to keep their forests thriving and honor their value. You can learn more about how our unique ethical and sustainable Guaiacwood sourcing model works here. Together with our sourcing partner (and you), we’re changing the future of the Gran Chaco Forest, one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world.
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