pieces of copal on a spoon

Copal

Copal is harvested from the bark of the copal tree. Copal has a rich history of being used as an incense during important ceremonies and rituals throughout North and South America.

Health Benefits:
Community Wellness
Health Condition:
Method of Use:
Burn/Smoke Rituals Topical Application Ceremony
Alternative Names:
Protium copal
Related Themes:
Ceremony Plants Grief

Cultural Narrative

Community members describe using copal in community and individual ceremonies and well-being practices such as smudging. It is described as a ceremonial medicine that calls people into circle together. The smoke is used to cleanse, purify, and for blessings. 

Copal is widely used by Indigenous peoples of the Americas in healing ceremonies to purify and restore community members to health and to bless agricultural crops or important events. 

Content here is for informational purposes only. As with all medicines, please consult with your physician before use.