Copal Santo, also called Mexican Black Copal, is a gorgeous, fragrant resin from the Bursera copallifera tree in Southern Mexico.
Copal Santo has a vibrant sweet, slightly fruity intensity with a unique caramel undertone.
Throughout Mesoamerica and South America, every region has its black and white Copal resins for ceremony and home.
I must admit that this Copal, from the Bursera copallifera tree, is new to me. So don't feel bad if you have never come across it.
Bursera copallifera is one of over 80 species of Bursera trees in Mexico, and many of them yield a fragrant resin.
Bursera Copallifera is a member of the Burseracaea family of trees. They are also called The "Torchwood" trees and the Incense tree family. It is related to Frankincense, Myrrh, Elemi and many other fragrant resin-bearing trees used for incense and perfume.
As with many other resins of the Burseracaea family, Copal Santo is also used in traditional medicine. It is often dissolved in oil and used to treat sore muscles, joints, and various skin conditions.
I look forward to distilling an essential oil of this resin soon. Stay tuned!
Dan
Materials: Copal Santo, Bursera Copallifera resin.