Copal: Black, Gold and White
Copal is the name given in Latin America to aromatic resins from several trees. It has been burned in ceremonies for centuries, from Mexico to the Andes and the Amazon. The names black, gold and white refer to different resins with different aromas. This guide explains the differences and how to burn copal.
Black copal
Our black Amazon copal is the resin of Dacryodes peruviana, a tree of the Peruvian Amazon in the Ucayali region. The resin forms small dark balls on the trunk. When burned it gives a deep, smoky and slightly sweet aroma, different from the copal of Mexico and Central America.
Gold copal
Gold copal is a lighter, amber-coloured resin. When burned it releases a white smoke with a sweet, warm aroma. It is lighter in character than black copal and is often used to start a ceremony or a meditation. Our gold copal is currently out of stock.
White copal
White copal (copal blanco) is the resin best known in Mexico, traditionally obtained from Bursera trees, relatives of palo santo. It has a fresh aroma with citrus and pine notes. We do not sell white copal; we mention it so you can tell the three apart.
| Black copal | Gold copal | White copal | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colour | Dark brown to black | Amber, golden | Pale, whitish |
| Aroma | Deep, smoky, sweet | Sweet, warm | Fresh, citrus, pine |
| Typical origin | Peruvian Amazon | South America | Mexico |
How to burn copal resin
- Light a charcoal disc for incense with tongs and place it on a fireproof dish with sand or ash.
- Wait until the disc is covered with a thin layer of grey ash.
- Place a small piece of copal on top. The resin melts and releases its smoke.
- Add more copal when the smoke fades. A little goes a long way.
Ventilate the room, never leave the charcoal unattended and let it cool completely before throwing it away.
Copal without charcoal
If you prefer not to use charcoal, choose copal already blended with wood: the copal and palo santo dhoop sticks are handmade with ground palo santo, black Amazon copal and a natural gum, and each one burns for about 40 to 60 minutes. The black copal and palo santo incense comes in packs of 50 sticks.
Frequently asked questions
Is copal the same as palo santo?
No. Palo santo is a wood; copal is a resin. They are often burned together because their aromas complement each other.
How should I store copal?
In a closed jar, in a cool place away from the sun. Heat can make the resin soft and sticky.
Read also our step-by-step guide to purifying with copal or see our natural incenses.