From the mixing studio - August 2021

For the August mix I wanted to focus on a blend which creates a sense of wellbeing.

So let me introduce you to Palo Santo if you haven’t already met.

Palo Santo means “Holy wood” where it comes from (ours is from Ecuador) and is commonly used in South America for spiritual practices. Although, as with many essential oils, there is limited scientific proof of medicinal benefits, Palo Santo oils and resins have been used by indigenous peoples for centuries and are said to clear negative energies, and be symbolic of rebirth.

The oil is extracted by steam distillation from the aged wood and bark of the Bursera graveolens tree, gathered from the floor of the forest, so pretty sustainable! In fact, it is listed in the “Least Concern” category by the Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened species . The oil smells warm, balsamic, resinous, with a hint of citrusy mint. Interestingly Palo Santo contains Limonene which is what gives citrus oils their lemony freshness, but which is quite unusual in a tree. To me it imparts a sense of calm and peace.

So in this mix I have lifted the Palo Santo citrus element out a bit more, hopefully without overwhelming, with May Chang.

May Chang, otherwise known as Mountain pepper due to the shape of the fruits which yield the oil, is a very powerful and vibrant citrus scent, so to be used sparingly.

I have added the slightest hint of Lavender to compliment the May Chang as a mid note, together with Frankincense, one of my favourites, especially if we are talking wellbeing. Interestingly Palo Santo comes from the same family as Frankincense, so I am reuniting them here, although they grow on opposite sides of the world.

And finally, as the reliable and stolid base note, one that holds this mix together beautifully, some Patchouli, which comes from the mint family, so the connections here abound.

I hope you enjoy this calming and uplifting blend 🙏  🌿

PS. Subscribers receive all Mixing studio samples free with the code sent to them at the beginning of each month – so please subscribe if you would like this benefit.

Thank you.