Ravensara

Product Details

Botanical name

Ravensara aromatica or Agathophyllum aromatica

Extraction method / Source

Steam distillation / Leaves and twigs

Aroma

Pungent, somewhat licorice-like

Note classification

Top, Middle

Odor Intensity

7

Key constituents

1,8- cineol, alpha-terpinol, myrcene, alpha-pinene, terpinen-4-ol, linalool.

Plant description

Botanical family: Lauraceae

The Ravensara tree is an evergreen indigenous to Madagascar and the Comoros Islands. It grows to 60 feet in height, has a highly aromatic bark and produces fragrant broad leaves and fruits.

Regions of Production

Madagascar

Growing Practices

Cultivated without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides.

Properties

Antimicrobial, antiseptic, antiviral, expectorant, immunomodulant. (Battaglia, 2003, Schnaubelt, 1998)

Please refer to the Glossary for terms which may be new to you.

Uses / Benefits

A potent antiviral, it is highly effective in supporting the treatment of colds and flu. Provides general immune support. Blend with Eucalyptus radiata and dilute with a carrier oil for use in massage. Also highly effective for bronchitis, rhinitis and sinusitis. Blend with Cypress to help manage symptoms of Whooping cough (Pertussis). Helps alleviate pain and irritation of Herpes zoster lesions (Chicken pox and Shingles). Use a cotton swab to apply neat (full strength) to herpes lesions, taking care to avoid surrounding skin. If lesions are inflamed, blend with Roman Chamomile. (Battaglia, 2003, Lunny, 1998).

Fragrant influences

Revitalizing for those with physical and mental fatigue. (Battaglia, 2003)

Modes of Administration

Topical: massage, compress, direct application to lesions

Inhalation: direct inhalation, diffuser, oil vaporizer, aromatherapy inhaler.

Blends well with

Bay Laurel, Bergamot, Cedarwood, Chamomile, Cinnamon, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Eucalyptus Lemon, Hyssop, Lavender, Marjoram, Orange, Oregano, Peppermint, Pine, Rhododendron, Rosemary, Tea Tree, Thyme

Safety

Notice

This information is for educational purposes only. It has not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease. Although we strive to provide information which is accurate and up to date, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

Precautions

Pure essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. Do not use them undiluted, or in the eyes or mucus membranes. If applying an essential oil to the skin, always dilute it with a proper carrier oil and test on a small patch of skin before applying to a large area. Do not take them internally except under the direction of a qualified professional trained in Aromatherapy. Always familiarize yourself with the safety, contraindications and proper preparation of each essential oil before use. Note that when using essential oils for children and the elderly, very low concentrations should be used. Keep all essential oils away from children and pets.

References

Battaglia, Salvatore, The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, Second Edition, 2003. The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Brisbane, Australia

Halpern, Georges M., M.D., Ph.D., Weverka, Peter, The Healing Trail: Essential Oils of Madagascar, 2003, Basic Health Publications, Inc., North Bergen, NJ.

Lunny, V., Essential Oil of Ravensara, Aromatic Thymes, Winter, 1998, 24 - 25.

Schnaubelt, Kurt, Advanced Aromatherapy: The Science of Essential Oil Therapy, (English translation)1998. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT.

Tourles, Stephanie L, Hands On Healing Remedies, 2012. Storey Publishing, North Adams, MA.

United States Food and Drug Administration, HHS, 182.1 Substances That Are Generally Recognized as Safe, 182.20 Essential oils, Oleoresins (solvent-free), and natural extractives (including distillates), http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/CFR-2012-title21-vol3-sec182 (January 28, 2016)

TIMELESS Essential Oils guarantees the purity and quality of all our therapeutic oils. The current Certificate of Analysis is available upon request. All essential oils are best stored in an airtight container away from heat and light.