Copal refers to the aromatic tree resin of several tropical species, most notably of the genus Protium — close relatives of frankincense and myrrh — harvested across Central and South America as well as parts of Africa and Asia. The name comes from the Nahuatl word "copalli," simply meaning "resin." It forms as a sticky secretion where the bark is wounded and hardens in the air into lumps of varying colour and texture — from pale, amber-like gold copal to milky-white or greenish variants, depending on species, region, and maturity. Unlike most resins, copal hardens comparatively quickly, yet stays soft and tacky at its core for years, distinguishing it from older, fully fossilised amber. Depending on species and maturity, the resin's colour ranges from pale, almost golden yellow to deep amber-brown; especially young, still-soft resin is occasionally even chewed raw, rather like a natural chewing gum. The trees favour the humid lowland forests of Central America and northern South America, often growing alongside other tropical resin-bearing trees.

In Mesoamerica, copal has been used for ceremonial burning since pre-Columbian times — the Maya and Aztecs considered it "food of the gods," burned in large quantities in temple rituals to nourish the gods and accompany offerings. Archaeological finds document elaborately shaped copal incense offerings in pre-Hispanic temple complexes as well as in grave goods. Copal remains central to the spiritual practice of many Indigenous communities across Central America today — from everyday cleansing rituals to large ceremonial burners, known as sahumerios, in which the resin is burned in significant quantities during festivals and ceremonies, its white smoke visible far across village squares and sacred sites. In many Central American communities, copal is still burned not only in temples but also at house blessings, field blessings, and family rites of passage; street vendors in markets from Chiapas to Guatemala continue to sell the characteristic leaf-wrapped resin pieces to this day.

Burned as incense, copal releases a bright, resinous-sweet scent with citrus and faintly woodland notes, noticeably fresher and lighter than heavier resins like frankincense or myrrh. This brightness makes copal a popular choice for cleansing rituals meant to free a space or person of stagnant, negative energy. In many Central American traditions, its smoke is considered a bridge between the earthly and spirit worlds — a scent that brings clarity without weight. Its comparatively light, unobtrusive smoke makes copal a popular entry-level resin for everyday cleansing rituals, while heavier resins tend to be reserved for special occasions.