A sacred wood with ancestral uses

Guaiac wood is known for producing a naturally fragrant resin that, when burned, releases a warm, woody, and slightly balsamic scent. Used in spiritual traditions, it is also valued in baths, ointments, and homemade perfume blends. Its reputation as a "sacred wood" dates back to the colonial era, when it was nicknamed "holy wood" for its reputed virtues.

Description

Brown to brown-green wood, very dense, cut into irregular shards or pieces. Long-lasting, woody, resinous fragrance. Sometimes has visible traces of natural resin.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Guaiac, wood of life, holy wood, lignum vitae
• Latin name: Guaiacum officinale
• Family: Zygophyllaceae
• Part used: Wood
• Shape: Cut, shards, pieces
• Origin: Central America, Caribbean
• Name in English: Lignum vitae wood
• German name: Guajakholz
• Name in Spanish: Madera de guayaco
• Name in Italian: Legno di guaiaco
• Name in Arabic: خشب الغاياك

Main virtues

Valued for its rich resin content, guaiac wood is used in incense, perfumery, artisanal skincare, and in certain fumigation traditions to purify the air or accompany wellness rituals. It is also sought after for its dense, lustrous aesthetic in the manufacture of traditional objects and tools.

Main constituents

Guaiacol, guaiacin, lignin, resins, phenolic acids, volatile aromatic compounds.

Use and dosage

• Incense: Use the chips on a hot coal or in resinous mixtures.
• Bath: Infuse in hot water for a traditional aromatic experience.
• Macerate: For oily or alcoholic extractions for artisanal or cosmetic purposes.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Do not ingest. For external or craft use only.
• Avoid in people allergic to exotic woods or sensitive to essential oils.
• Keep out of reach of children. Store at room temperature in an airtight container.

History and origin

Imported to Europe as early as the 16th century, guaiac wood was considered a valuable remedy for many ailments. Its wood was used in the manufacture of bowling balls, ship bearings, and ritual objects due to its exceptional hardness. It is now protected in many countries, with its exploitation strictly regulated.

Miscellaneous information

• Packaging: bulk, kraft bag, metal box or glass jar.
• Storage: away from humidity, light and heat.
• Shelf life: long-lasting, up to several years under good conditions.

Sources and references

• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• Base Tropicos – Missouri Botanical Garden
• Historical works of Caribbean herbalism

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