September 18, 2024
Palo Santo, the sacred wood of Ecuador: challenges and key role of indigenous traditions and conservation efforts.
Time: 10 am PST
Webinar Summary
Palo santo (Bursera graveolens) is native to the dry tropical forests of Latin America, particularly in Ecuador and Peru, where it holds significant cultural, spiritual, and medicinal importance among Indigenous communities. The tree is known for its aromatic wood, used in traditional rituals for purification and healing.
Its biology is characterized by a deciduous nature, deep root systems, and the production of aromatic compounds that enhance the quality of its wood and oil. However, although palo santo is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, it faces threats from habitat loss and overharvesting, prompting conservation efforts that include sustainable harvesting practices, reforestation, and international regulations to ensure its preservation and ethical trade.
These efforts are informed by the work of Ecuadorians Rafael Paducci and Ivonne Mosler, who have pioneered sustainable practices and collaborated closely with Indigenous communities to protect and utilize palo santo responsibly.
Rafael Parducci V.
Rafael Parducci V. has 23 years of experience in the distillation of essential oils in the Republic of Ecuador, a country where he has conducted research and had multiple experiences with countless plants, obtaining truly interesting results both scientifically and economically. Parducci has discovered that the true treasure of “El Dorado” lies in the emerald of the plants and the gold in the color and quality of its exotic and incredible essential oils, whether of native or non-native origin.
Ivonne Mosler
Ivonne Mosler discovered 10 years ago the wonders of Amazonian biodiversity as the magic of the tropical dry forests of the Ecuadorian coast. Since then, she has dedicated much of her careerpr omoting sustainable practices and the conservation of natural resources. In her current role, Ivonne Mosler is a key figure in the project “Resilience to Climate Change of Communities through the Forest Management of Palo Santo in the Framework of Popular and Solidarity Economy in the Province of Santa Elena”.
Dominique Gaillard
Dominique Gaillard, born in rural France, is a passionate aromatherapist and natural skincare specialist. Raised by a traditional gardener father and influenced by the renowned herbalist Maurice Messegue, Dominique developed a deep connection with nature and natural remedies. Her journey into aromatherapy began in her early thirties, seeking natural solutions for her children’s health. She explored essential oils and cosmetics while teaching English at a secondary school.
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