Yerba Santa for Seasonal Wellness & Sensory Rituals

Yerba santa (Eriodictyon californicum), meaning “holy herb” in Spanish, is a fragrant, evergreen plant native to the western United States. With its glossy leaves and rich, resinous aroma, Yerba Santa has long been valued in traditional herbalism for both its practical uses and its grounding presence in seasonal rituals.

Today, yerba santa continues to be appreciated for its distinctive flavor, aromatic qualities, and versatility in the apothecary. It is especially comforting during cooler months or times when we seek peace and clarity.

 

Why Herbalists Love Yerba Santa

Aromatic & Sensory Support: Yerba santa leaves are naturally aromatic, with notes that are balsamic, slightly sweet, and pleasantly bitter. When infused, simmered, or inhaled as steam, the scent feels clearing and invigorating, making it a favorite for seasonal self-care practices.

Traditional Wisdom: Indigenous communities and early herbalists worked with yerba santa as a cherished botanical, incorporating it into teas, syrups, poultices, and incense. While practices varied by region, the plant has long been associated with resilience and renewal.1

Versatile in the Apothecary: Yerba santa can be used internally or externally in culinary-style preparations, herbal confections, and aromatic rituals. Its strong flavor pairs beautifully with honey, citrus, cacao, and warming spices. 

Energetically Grounding: From an energetic perspective, yerba santa is often described as both uplifting and stabilizing. Some use it when they want to feel more open, centered, and supported during seasonal transitions.

 

Yerba Santa Recipes to Try at Home

Below are three simple and nourishing recipes that highlight yerba santa’s unique character while fitting easily into everyday herbal routines.

1. Yerba Santa Honey Infusion

A classic apothecary staple that captures the herb’s aromatic essence.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried Yerba santa leaf (Eriodictyon californicum)

• Raw, local honey (enough to fully cover)

Instructions

1. Place the yerba santa leaves in a clean glass jar.

2. Pour the honey over the herbs, ensuring they are fully submerged.

3. Stir gently to release air bubbles.

4. Seal and let infuse for 2–4 weeks, stirring occasionally.

5. Strain if desired, or leave the herbs in for a rustic infusion.

How to Use
Drizzle into warm tea, add to herbal syrups, or enjoy by the spoonful as part of a seasonal ritual.

2. Yerba Santa Herbal Steam Blend

An aromatic preparation perfect for moments of quiet self-care.

Ingredients

• 1–2 tablespoons dried Yerba santa leaf (Eriodictyon californicum)

• Optional additions: 1–2 tablespoons dried eucalyptus leaf (Eucalyptus globulus), rosemary leaf (Rosmarinus officinalis), or lavender flowers (Lavandula angustifolia)

• Large bowl of hot water

Instructions

1. Place the herbs into a heat-safe bowl.

2. Pour hot (not boiling!) water over the herbs.

3. Drape a towel over your head and bowl to capture the steam.

4. Breathe slowly and deeply for 5–10 minutes.

How to Use
Use this steam to support respiratory passageways or as part of an evening wind-down practice if you choose to add lavender flowers (Lavanda angustifolia) .

3. Yerba Santa Chocolate Bark

A unique and delicious way to work with this traditionally bitter herb.

Ingredients

• 1 cup high-quality dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher)

• 1–2 teaspoons finely powdered dried Yerba santa (Eriodictyon californicum)

• Optional toppings: sea salt or orange zest

Instructions

1. Gently melt the dark chocolate using a double boiler.

2. Stir in the powdered yerba santa until well combined.

3. Spread the chocolate mixture onto parchment paper.

4. Sprinkle with optional toppings.

5. Chill until firm, then break into pieces.

How to Enjoy
Savor slowly as a mindful treat that highlights the herb’s rich, resinous notes.

 

A Thoughtful Herb for the Modern Apothecary

Yerba santa invites us to slow down and reconnect with tradition, the senses, and seasonal rhythms. Whether enjoyed aromatically or incorporated into creative edible recipes, this “holy herb” offers a beautiful way to deepen your relationship with plants.

Learn more ways to incorporate herbs in your daily life with HERB 101 Foundations of Herbal Studies offered by American College of Healthcare Sciences. 

Sources:

1. Maher, P., Fischer, W., Liang, Z., Soriano-Castell, D., Pinto, A. F. M., Rebman, J., & Currais, A. (2020). The Value of Herbarium Collections to the Discovery of Novel Treatments for Alzheimer's Disease, a Case Made With the Genus Eriodictyon. Frontiers in pharmacology, 11, 208. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2020.00208