Chapter Overview-
Orientation and Sequence of Events–
First, listen to your animated helper tell you about this lesson. Then, come to the Ship’s Library for this class. To get there, go to Deck 4 from the main stairwell. Turn left, and the Library is the second door on your right.
Bring your laptop, notebook, scent impression strips, sheets, and a beverage. Scan the notes below beforehand to identify which essential oils are covered. Bring the ones you have with you to sniff.
Then, when you get cozy, read about all the plants on this page and take breaks when necessary. Watch Robert’s video on plants of the Lauraceae family. Gena, the Good Witch, will tell you how to use Laurel essential oil to empower your intentions.
Sniff the essential oils from this family you can get ahold of and fill out the scent impressions sheets. Download the exercises at the bottom of the page. Create the product suggested in the lesson and journal to benefit from the transformations from this lesson.
Introduction:
THE LAUREACEAE FAMILY
The Lauraceae Family is beneficial for aiding breathing and disinfecting. Camphor, Ho Leaf, Cinnamon, Ravintsara, and Rosewood are just some essential oils in this family you will find helpful.
The Lauraceae family consists mainly of trees or shrubs with a few parasitic climbers. These plants lack true leaves and grow in tropical and subtropical regions.
Pub Med- theida.com/essential-oils/ravintsara-vs-ravensara-what’s-the-difference
According to the same article- Cinnamomum camphora produces a wide range of essential oils.
Camphor- Japan
Ho wood or leaf- China
Safrole-type- Called Chinese sassafras
Ravintsara- Madagascar-from the leaves.
The essential oils differ in chemical profile depending on the country of origin and the part of the plant used to extract: leaf or wood/bark. For instance, Japanese C. Camphora wood tends to be rich in the chemical “camphor, upwards of 50%. The Japanese camphor tree is commonly called the Ho-Sho camphor tree.
There are at least five recognized chemotypes of C. camphora, including:
1. 1,8 cineole (eucalyptol): Around 55-76%, 1,8 cineole with 20% Ravintsara oil, is derived from C. camphora transplanted and now grown in Madagascar.
2. linalool: around 80% and 10% monoterpenes- ho leaf/ wood.
3. safrole: Chinese sassafras- raw material
4. nerolidol: 40-60% nerolidol with 20% each of mono and sesquiterpenoids.
5. camphor (ketone) from wood exudation crystals.
Camphor- rectified, white or true & brown
Cinnamomum camphora
From: China, Japan, Taiwan.
Class: ketone
According to Tisserand pgs. 228-230 Brown camphor should never be used because it is potentially carcinogenic. It has a safrole content of 50-60%, (Guenther 1949-1952 Vol 4 p. 301)
Yellow camphor has a safrole content of about 20% and should not be used to any degree, especially not orally. (Guenther 1949-1952 Vol 4 p. 303)
Camphor is on the Canadian cosmetic hot list. It is okay to use at a 3% ratio. https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/consumer-product-safety/cosmetics/cosmetic-ingredient-hotlist-prohibited-restricted-ingredients/hotlist.html
White camphor, also called Honsho or true camphor, is safer.
3 Key Constituents: (+)Limonene, p-cymene, Alpha-Pinene Tisserand pg. 228. White Camphor is the only type recommended for aromatherapy.
Steam distilled. It is rectified under vacuum as a by-product of removing camphor crystals. Once one of the most sought-after aromatics, it was used as a fumigant during the era of the Black Death and in Egypt and Babylon for perfume and embalming. Chen W et al., Molecules 2013 18(5): 5434-54.
Roots, branches, leaves, and wood are used to extract camphor and camphor oil for pharmaceutical use.
According to Behra and Rakotarison, the fractionation of the mother essential oil produces two different essential oils. White camphor is the first distillation fraction, which is colourless or nearly colourless and has a cineole-like odour.
Tisserand pg. 228 says camphor oil is separated into four distinct products by fractional distillation after the crude camphor crystals are removed by filtration. White is a slight fraction, brown is a medium fraction, yellow is a medium fraction, and blue is a heavy fraction. Because of this fractionation process, none of these can be called “true essential oils.” White camphor oil, the most widely used therapeutically, contains very little camphor.
White camphor is the one we refer to in this course.
My favourite use is taking a sniff to awaken fully. Camphor is the basis of the old-smelling salts women in the movies would be given to sniff when they fainted from bad news.
Respiratory: To stimulate breathing, add a drop into a water-based diffuser for bronchitis, coughs, and congestion.
Muscular: Mix a few drops of camphor oil into a carrier and rub it onto your body as a painkiller for rheumatism, muscle aches, pains, sprains, and bruises.
Cardiac: A whiff may stimulate the heartbeat.
Immune: A drop in a bath or diffuser to oppose colds, fever, flu, and bacterial infections.
Mind: Diffuse a drop or two in a water-based diffuser as a stimulant to strengthen the central nervous system.
Perfumery: Camphorous, medicinal; top-mid note; high odour intensity.
It is blended with basil, black pepper, cajeput, chamomile, cardamom, lavender, lemon, marjoram, orange, peppermint, ravensara, spearmint, tea tree, thyme, and yarrow.
Mythological and Spiritual: An e-magazine called Sanskriti talks about the Importance of Camphor in Ritual. They say that “when camphor leaf is lit to the gods, it burns out fully, leaving a sweet fragrance. It symbolizes the union with the divine as one’s ego fully evaporates without leaving residue, spreading light and love as the camphor has spread fragrance.”
Cautions: It can be toxic if overused. It is absorbed rapidly by the skin. Please don’t use it internally. Avoid during pregnancy with babies & children. Old or oxidized oils should be avoided. Skin sensitization could occur if it is oxidized. Tisserand pg. 228.
Brown camphor is a fraction with a higher boiling point than camphor. It is a pale yellow to brown liquid with the odour of sassafras oil. It has about 80% safrole and 10% monoterpenols. It is called Chinese Sassafras. It is converted into heliotropin, used as a fragrance and flavour, and piperonal as an insecticide against insects like mosquitoes. Brown and yellow Camphor are hazardous and possible carcinogens. They should never be used in aromatherapy. Safrole is a precursor to methamphetamines MDMA and MDA.
The Many Faces of Cinnamomum camphora- Student Project by Antia Berger
Ho Leaf/Ho Wood
Tisserand pg. 305, Ho Leaf is generally called “ho leaf oil’. Curiously, it is sometimes referred to as ‘ho wood oil’.
Cinnamomum camphora chemotype linalool
From: China
Class: Alcohol-linalool
3 Key Constituents: Linalool(80-95%) 1,8 Cineole, Nerolidol (Zhu et al 1993; Lawrence 1995d p. 30-33).
Ho Leaf is like rosewood with a linalool content close to 89%. Its properties are similar to rosewood but have a lighter scent.
Skin: Ho leaf can be used like rosewood to balance all skin types. It is suitable for abscesses, wounds, and sores.
Muscular: Dilute with a carrier oil and massage for chronic rheumatism and rheumatic and muscular pains. Relaxing and anti-spasmodic
Mind: Use it in a diffuser to balance emotions and strengthen concentration. It is a nervous restorative for weak conditions with fatigue.
Here is some extra research on Ho Oil:
Anti-inflammatory Effects Ho essential oil, rich in linalool, has demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory properties. A study found that it helps reduce inflammation by inhibiting pathways that lead to inflammatory responses, making it potentially beneficial for conditions such as arthritis and skin inflammation. This was shown by its ability to decrease the release of nitric oxide and the expression of inflammatory cytokines in microglial cells stimulated with lipopolysaccharides (LPS) (MDPI) (MDPI).
Antibacterial Activity Ho Leaf Oil exhibits strong antibacterial properties against various bacterial strains, including E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. This makes it a promising option for preventing or treating bacterial infections, particularly those affecting the skin (MDPI) (MDPI).
Sedative Properties The soothing benefits of inhaling Ho essential oil have been studied, showing that it promotes relaxation and improves sleep quality. This is attributed to linalool, which has been found to induce sedation and reduce stress, making Ho oil useful for therapies aimed at enhancing sleep quality and reducing stress (MDPI) (MDPI).
Please don’t use it internally. Do not use if pregnant, breastfeeding or with children under 3.
Record your impression of this oil in your Journal.
Cassia, Chinese Cinnamon
Cinnamomum cassia
From: China
Class: aldehyde
3 Key Constituents: (E)-Cinnamaldehyde,(Z)-Cinnamaldehyde (E)-cinnamyl acetate. (Lawrence 1979 p. 13, 1995 g pr. 163, p.201, 2001f p. 48-52). Up to 75-85% cinnamaldehyde.
It is a common adulterant of actual cinnamon bark. This less expensive oil is often adulterated with synthetic cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, clove, Himalayan cedar, gurjun balsam, and laurel leaf oils. This cheap bark oil is widely used in the food and beverage industries and the spice trade.
A steam-distilled or Co2 extract is made from the total plant.
Cassia was historically imported into Egypt for embalming and is worth its weight in gold or ivory. It may derive from Kiddah, meaning “a strip” in reference to strips of bark.
Respiratory: Cassia is beneficial for colds, bronchitis, and pleurisy. However, it is too strong to diffuse in large quantities. Always dilute with more gentle essential oils first.
Digestive: Dilute to 3% and apply to the tooth as an anesthetic.
Anti-microbial: Cinnamaldehyde is active against various bacteria, four species of Candida, and various moulds. Ooi, L.S. et al. 2006. American J Chinese Medicine.
Genito: Dilute and massage onto the tummy or bottoms of feet to help induce menstruation.
Mind: The scent is warming, stimulating and suitable for mild depression. Spiritually, it represents devotion (being stripped of pride) and consecration.
Research:
Antibacterial Activity
Cinnamomum cassia essential oil has shown promising antibacterial properties against multidrug-resistant bacteria, particularly in hospital settings. A study highlighted its efficacy against carbapenem- and polymyxin-resistant Klebsiella aerogenes, demonstrating its potential as a natural antibacterial agent. The primary antibacterial mechanism involves disrupting bacterial cell membranes, leading to the leakage of critical cellular components and, ultimately, cell death (SciELO Brazil) .
Cautions: Dermal irritant. Avoid while pregnant, with babies, children, breastfeeding and pets. Please do not use it internally. It is easily absorbed into the skin. Be very careful when using it on the skin—it will burn unless it is very dilute. I suggest doing a patch test on a small skin area before putting it on much of the body to check for reactions. It is an anticoagulant and may react with medications. Do not diffuse just cassia, as it is too hard on the lungs alone.
Could you record your impression of this oil in your Journal?
Cinnamon Bark
Cinnamomum zeylanicum
Botanical synonym: Cinnamomum verum
Do not use Cinnamon louerii-Cinnamon Vietnamese because it is too toxic.
From: Ceylon, Madagascar, Sri Lanka
Class: aldehyde
3 Key Constituents: (E)-Cinnamaldehyde, Eugenol, (E)-Cinnamyl acetate
Steam distilled, CO2 from bark
Favourite Use: I add a couple of drops of cinnamon to orange essential oil and put it in a spray bottle to use as a room spray. It is a familiar scent enjoyed by many people. But just one extra drop of cinnamon bark oil makes the blend too strong.
This spice was so in demand in the past that wars were fought over it!
Harvesting: According to Mandy Aftel, in Fragrant pg. 39, ” In the first stage of the harvest, the “flush of tender shoots is cut down and left to ferment lightly indoors. The leaves are removed, and the outer bark is scraped off the twigs. The inner bark is rubbed and beaten down thoroughly with a smooth brass block to break up, homogenize the tissues, and free the bark from the twigs. The peeler slits the bark with a small curved knife and frees it in one piece. The bark pieces are rolled in telescope-style layers to produce long “quills” and left to dry for several days. Then the cinnamon quills, which have acquired a crackling, papery texture and the true cinnamon colour, are trimmed to precisely forty-two inches.”
Mandy Aftel goes on to describe, pg. 38 Fragrant, that the quality of cinnamon varies hugely, even within various parts of the same tree. ” The aromatic essence is distributed, with varying intensity, throughout the cinnamon tree, every part having a distinct flavour that can be used. Any shoot from a particular tree may yield different oil from its neighbours.
She quotes Gibbs, who says, “The quality of the bark depends upon its position on the branch; that from the middle is the best, that from the top second, and that from the base, which is the thicker part of the branch, the third grade. Branches that are exposed to direct sunlight as they grow have more acrid and spicy bark than those which grow in the shade. …The thinness of the bark determines the quality; the thinner and more pliable, the finer. The finest quality is smooth and somewhat shiny and of yellow colour. The growing conditions also affect the quality of the cinnamon.” Marshy soil produces an inferior oil.
Skin: Cinnamon bark is a highly aggressive essential oil. Dilute to only .02% and then check for reactions. It is an excellent anti-fungal, and I like to use a very weak mix on the bottom of my feet.
Respiratory: It is so aggressive that you need only one drop in a water diffuser. Use it in an air diffuser, blending it with other essential oils, such as fruit oils, representing only about 1% of the mixture. Otherwise, it can harm the lungs and breathing. A kindergarten teacher in our town diffused it into her classroom, and all the children in her care needed to be taken outside to get their breath back. They were all in coughing fits due to the strength of her brew.
The oil is a tonic, stimulating, and antiseptic. If appropriately used, it eases colds and breathing and raises body temperature.
Cardio: Cinnamon bark may raise blood pressure. It is a heart stimulant and blood thinner. Sheppard-Hanger, pg. 157
Immune: Our history is rich with cinnamon sticks being used to help cure contagious diseases. It is one of the ingredients in the famous Thieves Blend, which was reportedly used to fight the plague. The oil is a potent broad-spectrum antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and strong anthelmintic, including external skin parasites, lice, and scabies. Note that topical skin irritation can be caused when using even slightly too much.
The oil was traditionally used for tropical intermittent fevers, including malaria and dengue.
Digestive: It may aid gum disease and toothache. It acts as an anesthetic (diluted). Intestinal infections, diarrhea, gut parasites, colitis, gas, nausea, and vomiting. Sheppard-Hanger, pg. 157 It is also used to aid and prevent motion sickness, along with ginger.
Genito: Cinnamon Bark induces menstruation, eases menstrual pain, aids uterine contractions in birthing and postpartum depression. Genital and urinary infections. Good reproductive system tonic.
Mind: Many of us love the scent of cinnamon. It is both warming and stimulating.
The oil is helpful for emotional coldness, withdrawal, apathy, low self-confidence, mental fatigue, catatonia, schizoid affective disorder, and sensory integration disorder (Holmes 2016).
Many people associate it with a feeling of coziness and home. It helps stoke an emotional fire, fostering positive changes and heart-centred love. A small amount used in blends can be helpful for discouragement and disorientation from severe emotional loss or betrayal (Holmes 2016).
Perfumery: Spicy, warm; top to middle note; very high odour intensity. Mandy Aftel, Fragrant, pg. 38 says, “The best-quality cinnamon oil opens with a candylike freshness that evolves into a tenacious aroma that is equally sweet and spicy, finishing with a dry sweetness. The spicy heat builds gradually, with nuances of floral and clove notes. On the other hand, Cassia is more like the smell of little red candies, known as red hots.”
It mixes with bay, benzoin, bergamot, black pepper, carnation, cardamom, cedar, coriander, clove, frankincense, galbanum, geranium, ginger, grapefruit, lemongrass, lemon, mandarin, nutmeg, orange, patchouli, petitgrain, pine, rosemary, rosewood, sandalwood, tangerine, thyme, vanilla, vetiver, ylang, and yuzu.
Mythology and Spirituality—It was mentioned in Chinese books on healing over 4000 years ago, and Egyptians used it as part of the mummification process.
It is used in love spells because of the shape of the stick, which is especially related to male libido. It was a crucial ingredient in Egyptian Kyphi.
It was made as a hydrosol long before its use as an essential oil because it is heavier than water and sinks.
In my experience, the medicine is in the dose with many essential oils, especially aggressive ones, like cinnamon bark. A drop used in a blend is exquisite. Too much, and it turns nasty in both scent and effect.
A bit of Cinnamon Bark Research-
Neuroprotective Effects
Cinnamomum cassia oil has shown potential in protecting nerve cells from damage, offering hope for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. The protective effects are thought to be related to the oil’s ability to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in neural tissues (Liu et al., 2018).
Antioxidant, Antibacterial, and Anticancer Activity
The essential oil from Cinnamomum cassia exhibits significant antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer activities. Nanoemulsions of the oil have been developed to enhance its stability and effectiveness. Due to its excellent biological properties, the oil has shown promising results in cancer therapy (Alam et al., 2023).
Anti-inflammatory and Antinociceptive Properties
Studies on the essential oil from the twigs of Cinnamomum cassia have demonstrated its ability to alleviate pain and inflammation. The oil significantly reduced pain and inflammation in mice models, validating its traditional use for treating inflammatory conditions and pain (Sun et al., 2016).
Nephroprotective Effects
Cinnamomum cassia essential oil has shown protective effects against nephrotoxicity induced by manganese chloride in young rats. The oil mitigated oxidative stress and histological damage in renal tissues, highlighting its potential as a nephroprotective agent (Brahmi et al., 2022).
Antimicrobial Activity
The essential oil from Cinnamomum cassia bark exhibits potent antibacterial activity against several food-related bacteria, particularly Staphylococcus aureus. The mechanism involves increasing cell membrane permeability and causing leakage of intracellular constituents (Huang et al., 2014).
Cautions: Dermal irritant. Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Keep away from children and pets. Avoid it with gastrointestinal ulcers. Please do not use it internally. It can be over-exciting to the nervous system. It is not considered safe for most aromatic use, as it is aggressive to the skin. Please do not use it on the skin unless it is very dilute, then do a patch test on a small area before putting it on much of the body to check for reactions. In a diffuser, it may also be aggressive to the lungs and eyes in large concentrations. Avoid oral use, as it may interfere with diabetes medication, anti-coagulant medication, surgery, peptic ulcer, and hemophilia. Tisserand pg. 248
Cinnamon bark is best used for chronic, cold and hypotonic weak conditions. Please do not use it in acute, heated conditions.
Cinnamon Bark Video – Student Project, Tanya Wells
Could you record your impression of this oil in your Journal?
Cinnamon Leaf
Cinnamon zeylanicum
From: Sri Lanka
Class: Phenol
3 Key Constituents: Eugenol (68-87%), Eugenyl acetate, Linalool (Lawrence 1979 p 29, 1995g p. 148, p. 201)
Steam-distilled leaf- essential oil is made from fresh leaves. It is a nice-smelling oil.
Respiratory: Like cinnamon bark, use extremely carefully in very low dilutions. Cinnamon leaf may be helpful for severe acute bronchitis, sore throat, and a nasty cough.
Muscular: Dilute the cinnamon leaf with a carrier oil to low doses of less than 1% for massage, rheumatism and gout pain.
Cardio: Heart stimulant
Immune: The oil is warming for chills, colds, flu, and viral infections. Dilute very carefully to ensure there is no burning.
Digestive: Dilute to .05% and apply for a toothache. As a spice, not oil, it is suitable for digestion and warming the tummy.
Genito: As a perfume, it may be helpful for male impotence. Diluted in a carrier and rubbed onto the feet may induce menstruation.
Mind: Maybe stimulating an exhausted, weak, depressed, cold or isolated emotional state.
Research:
Antibacterial Activity
Summary: This study evaluates the antibacterial effectiveness of cinnamon leaf essential oil against multi-drug resistant bacterial strains. The oil demonstrated potent activity against various drug-resistant bacteria, suggesting its potential as a natural antibacterial agent in combating antibiotic-resistant infections.
Citation: Antibacterial properties of Cinnamomum verum leaf oil against multi-drug resistant bacterial strains – Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2019.
Cautions: Dermal irritant, but not as severe as bark oil. Avoid while pregnant, breastfeeding, and with babies, children and pets. Do not take it internally; it may interfere with many medications- see cinnamon bark. Please do not use it on the skin unless it is very dilute, then do a patch test before putting it on much of the body to check for reactions. Please do not put too high a concentration in the air, as, like cinnamon bark, it becomes aggressive to the lungs and eyes.
Could you record your impression of this oil in your Journal?
Remember to take a break if you need one!
Laurel Leaf/ Sweet Bay
Laurus nobilis
From: Yugoslavia, Morocco,
Mediterranean
Class: oxide, ester, alcohol
3 Key Constituents: 1,8 Cineole, alpha-Pinene, alpha-terpinyl acetate (Lawrence 1995a p. 51-52)
Steam distilled leaves
Favourite Use: Laurel is the oil historically used to celebrate accomplishments or victories. A crown of laurels was placed on the victor’s head. We have all heard the saying, “Don’t sit on your laurels.” I like to make a spray bottle with 97% water and 3% laurel leaf essential oil to use as an aromatic celebration when a big project has ended.
This spray has a two-pronged benefit. Firstly, it reminds me or my loved ones that we have done something significant. Acknowledging a milestone and allowing this accomplishment to feel good instead of rushing off to the next project is a good practice. Laurel is an excellent way to receive and absorb acknowledgment from oneself and start paving the way for the next plan.
Laurel is also an ingredient used by psychics and priestesses to foresee the future and receive the big picture.
Cosmetic: Mixed in a shampoo or carrier oil, Laurel essential oil is restorative to the hair and scalp, a tonic to stimulate growth, and a remedy for dandruff.
It can be diluted and applied to bruises, scars, acne, pimples, and boils to aid healing.
It is also unattractive to vermin, lice, and scabies.
Historically, it has been used for necrotic or gangrene skin created during battle.
Culinary– Bay Laurel, a leaf used in cooking, comes from this plant.
Respiratory: Add it to a diffuser; it is helpful to address sinus infection, pneumonia, chronic bronchitis and possibly asthma.
Dilute it in a carrier oil and rub it into the temples, shoulders or neck, which may help with headaches.
Muscular: Dilute with a dandelion carrier to massage into aches, pains, arthritis, and rheumatism.
Cardio: Laurel may lower blood pressure and have anticoagulant properties. It may be a lymphatic regulator and possibly support Hodgkin’s disease. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 259
Immune: Laurel is an immune stimulant for colds, flu, tonsillitis, and possibly viral infections. Mix one drop with mullein carrier or olive oil and drop it into the ear; it may ease ear infections. Dilute and rub into swollen glands.
Digestive: Dilute and apply it to the gums for adult toothache. Dilute and rub into the tummy to aid digestion and flatulence and as a liver tonic.
Mental: Diffused or sniffed, Laurel may ease dizziness. It is a cognitive stimulant historically used to bolster the confidence, courage, and pride of athletes, soldiers, and heroes.
Perfumery: Medicinal, camphorous, refreshing. Top note: mid-high odour intensity.
Laurel blends well with benzoin, bergamot, black pepper, cardamom, cedarwood, cinnamon, clove, coriander, cypress, eucalyptus, frankincense, geranium, ginger, grapefruit, juniper, lavender, lemon, marjoram, orange, rosemary, thyme, and ylang.
Mythological and Spiritual: A wreath fashioned from laurel leaves denoted the highest status in Greece. The wreath was given to winners of the Pythian Games, representing Apollo, the God of Medicine, Healing, and Music. “Baccalaureate and poet laureate derive from this,” says Wikipedia.
The nymph Daphne became a Laurel tree because of Apollo’s constant quest for her. She was a devotee of his twin sister, Artemis and wanted to remain free from the control of men. Instead of being taken by Apollo, she begged her father, a River God, for help, and he turned her into the Laurel Tree. Apollo still loved her and decided to honour her by making her leaves evergreen and using them to symbolize the highest of accomplishments.
For the Christians, the Laurel represents the resurrection of Christ.
Laurel is an essential oil that empowers intentions. Press the play button on the video below.
Research Around Laurus Nobilis:
Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activities Laurus nobilis essential oil has shown potent antibacterial and antibiofilm activities against Staphylococcus aureus strains associated with oral infections. Major compounds in the oil include 1,8-cineole, methyl eugenol, and α-terpinyl acetate (Merghni et al., 2015).
Comparative Antimicrobial and Synergistic Effects Essential oils from Laurus nobilis and Prunus armeniaca showed significant antibacterial and antifungal activities. Laurus nobilis essential oil, primarily composed of eucalyptol, α-terpinyl acetate, and methyl eugenol, demonstrated strong synergistic effects with antibiotics, enhancing their effectiveness (Nafis et al., 2020).
Antimicrobial Activity Against Foodborne Pathogens Laurus nobilis essential oil has effectively inhibited foodborne pathogens such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The oil’s main components, including 1,8-cineole and α-terpinenyl acetate, contribute to its potent antimicrobial properties (Ramos et al., 2012).
Antifungal Activity Against Cryptococcus neoformans Laurus nobilis essential oil has shown in vitro antifungal potential against Cryptococcus neoformans strains, indicating its possible use as a natural antifungal agent (Pinheiro et al., 2017).
Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity Studies comparing the chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of Laurus nobilis essential oils from different regions (Tunisia, France, and Austria) found that the oils exhibited significant antibacterial and antifungal activities. The major components varied but demonstrated strong antimicrobial effects (Guedri et al., 2020).
Caution: No internal use. Do not use if pregnant, breastfeeding, or with children or pets. Some skin sensitization or mucous membrane irritation is possible. There is a low risk of it causing breathing problems in young children. Tisserand pg. 323
Could you record your impression of this oil in your Journal?
Ravensara anisata (R.aromatica)
From: Madagascar
Class: leaf- Phenol. Ester, monoterpenes. bark- methyl chavicol
Key Constituents: Estragole, Linalool (Behra et al. 2001).
This tree grows to a height of 20 m at elevations of 700-1000 m in humid evergreen forests in the East of the island of Madagascar. The tree has fragrant nuts, bark, and leaves. The bark contains up to 90% methyl chavicol. Sometimes, it is confused with Ravensara and Ravintsara, which are from the leaves of a different tree. Sometimes, the bark is called HAVOZO. R. anisata is an incorrect botanical term but was chosen due to a difference in the bark and leaf oils. Not surprisingly, the scent is strongly anise-like. This tree is an endangered species and should be avoided.
Steam distilled from the bark (90% methyl chavicol)
Cosmetic: Dilute in a rosehip seed, argan or seabuckthorn carrier to help skin maintain elasticity.
Respiratory: Ravensara anisata can be diffused for nervousness and fast breathing.
Muscles and Joints: Make a rub using a dandelion or poplar bud carrier. It is suitable for decreasing muscle spasms, neuro-muscular pains, and aches.
Cardio: Stimulates heart, eases palpitations.
Genito: Induces and regulates menstruation, aids period pains and PMS, and facilitates labour.
Cautions: Avoid it with breast, uterine and ovarian cancers, as there is speculation but no proof that it may be a carcinogen. Avoid during pregnancy, while breastfeeding and with babies, children and pets. Avoid in cases of intestinal bleeding—possible skin irritation. Please do not take it internally. It may inhibit blood clotting. I prefer to use Ravensara aromatica to avoid some of these potential problems.
The classification of the Ravensara needs to be clarified. R. anisata from the bark is higher in methyl chavicol and anethole. (Tucker and Maciarello (1995)).
Could you record your impression of this oil in your Journal?
Ravintsara aromatica
Ravintsara aromatica (Monoterpenes)
From: Madagascar
Class: Oxides (50-70% cineole) monoterpenes (limonene, pinene, sabinene), methyl eugenol (6%).
3 Key Constituents: (+)-Limonene, Sabinene, Isoledene. (Bear et al. 2001).
Steam-distilled leaves and branches make a stimulating, warming, and drying oil. It is uplifting, refreshing, and motivating (Holmes 2016).
Favourite Use: I love this essential oil in the steam. It helps clear sinuses and fight infections. The scent is very much like Eucalyptus but is more antiviral. Ravintsara in Malagasy means “good leaf.”
Cosmetic: Dilute- useful for infections, wounds, herpes, shingles. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 365
Respiratory: This oil is effective for respiratory issues. It is one of my three favourites for sinus problems, flu, bronchitis, coughs, colds, allergies, laryngitis, and respiratory tract congestion (Sheppard-Hanger, pg. 365). It is helpful for all ear, nose, and throat infections. Like Niaouli, it restores the nervous, cerebral, and immune functions. In TCM, it is considered a warming Qi and Yang tonic.
Immune: Dilute with St. John’s Wort and apply it on the skin for chickenpox.
Purchon and Cantele-pg. 100. As a powerful antiviral, ravensare or ravensara can be used for cold sores, herpes, and shingles. Use as a component in air sprays to prevent the spread of chicken pox and measles. Strongly anti-viral.
Muscles and Joints: Dilute in a carrier oil to relieve muscular and physical fatigue or joint and acute rheumatoid pain. Its effect may also be neuromuscular.
It is said to be relaxing when massaged over the vertebral column.
Cardio: Dilute and use as a rub to increase lymph drainage, especially after flu or illness.
Genito: Genital herpes. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 365
Mental and Nervous System: Diffuse for cases of anxiety, stress, and related illnesses. Beneficial in lethargy, mental fog, low self-esteem, depression and ADD. It may increase the prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia function (Holmes 2016).
Cautions: There has been no formal testing; avoid it if breastfeeding, during pregnancy, with infants, or with pets. Please do not take it internally. Use this oil with caution due to its methyl eugenol content. Tisserand, pg. 403 says it is a potential carcinogen based on the estragole content. Keep this oil refrigerated in a brown bottle, as it can oxidize. Interactions with medications can occur if they are taken internally.
Ravintsara notes to add to the confusion🙀🙀🙀
Cinnamomum camphor- leaves
The trees grow to a height of 20 m at elevations of 700-1000 m in humid evergreen forests in the East of the island of Madagascar. They have fragrant nuts, bark, and leaves.
Note* There is confusion between ravensara and ravintsara.
The jury is still out on the differences. There needs to be more agreement among sources. This is one of the most frustrating classifications in aromatherapy!!!
One source says that the imported tree Cinnamomum camphora, ravinstara, has lost the ability to produce camphor in the Madagascar climate. It differs from ravensara because ravinstara is much richer in 1,8 cineole.
The sellers in Madagascar need to be more transparent about the differentiation- some say the oils come from different parts of the same tree. Others do not concur. The genus Cinnamomum alone has over 250 species. The composition depends on the species distilled, the part of the plant used, and the region or country from which it comes. It needs to be understood that oil should be better labelled in aromatherapy. According to Burfield, the situation regarding the exact botanical identification of the source of Ravensara needs to be clarified and has led to arguments among academic researchers. This confusion has spread to aromatherapists who rely on their knowledge. There are about 30 Ravensara Malagasy species.
Ravensara leaf essential oil, on the other hand, has been reported by Behra and Rakotoarison (2001) to contain 53-68% 1,8 cineole. This may need to be corrected.
Burfield dismisses this, as 5 Ravensara aromatica leaf oils analyzed all contained upwards of 80-92% methyl eugenol. Adding to the confusion is the possibility that this plant may have different chemotypes with different classes and chemical profiles.
Perfumery: Camphor-like scent. Medicinal. Top note.
High odour intensity.
It blends with basil, benzoin, camphor, chamomile German, cypress, fir, frankincense, ginger, grapefruit, helichrysum, hyssop, juniper, lavender, lemon, lemongrass, myrtle, peppermint, pine, rosemary tea tree, and thyme linalool.
Cautions: Do not use if pregnant, breastfeeding, with children or pets, or if it is old or oxidized. Please do not take it internally. Sometimes, white camphor is called ravintsara. White camphor may be toxic if taken internally. It may cause skin sensitization if it is old or oxidized.
Rosewood Brazilian
Aniba roseodora var. amazonica.
From: Brazil
Class: monoterpene alcohol,(90% linalool)
3 Key Constituents: Linalool, alpha-Terpineol, (Z)-Linalool oxide. (Lawrence 1989 p. 118-119).
Steam-distilled wood chips.
Rhodium wood- a mix of geranium or palmarosa with sandalwood is sometimes used as a substitute. Adulteration is high.
Favourite Use: This essential oil is mild and balances the mind and hormonal system. Importing Rosewood into Canada is no longer legal, so I have weaned off using it. I now substitute Ho Wood, which is chemically similar but has a different scent. The tree is rare and endangered and listed in CITES for concern. A well-known MLM company illegally shipped rosewood to the USA for years under the guise of labelling it rose geranium. They were charged and convicted in court.
Cosmetic: This essential oil is usually safe to apply neatly to acne. If someone is under the age of 14 or has sensitive skin, dilute first. Dilute in a carrier oil for dry, sensitive skin, dermatitis, scars, and combination skin and wrinkles. Rosewood is a cellular stimulant and tissue regenerator. Consider it for rosacea, scars, stretch marks, and wounds.
Respiratory: Gargle with one drop in a glass of salt water for a ticklish cough and sore throat. Rosewood is a mild antiseptic.
Immune: Use in a diffuser or bath as an immune stimulant for a cough, cold, flu, fever, or broncho-pulmonary infections.
Digestive: Apply to temples to relieve nausea with a headache.
Genito: Use in the bath or a douche for genitourinary issues such as vaginal candida.
Mind: Use in a diffuser or bath for its tonic, relaxant, stabilizing and balancing qualities—harmonizing and restorative to emotional and physical health. French practitioners use it for nervous debility in children and orally for infections of the mouth, throat and urinary system.
Perfumery: Mid note: low odour intensity. Rosy, sweet, woody middle note.
Try with cedarwood, coriander, frankincense, geranium, neroli, palmarosa, patchouli, petitgrain, rose, sandalwood, tangerine, and vetiver.
Ho leaves can be substituted to reduce the pressure to cut down rainforest trees. Ho leaves have properties similar to rosewood but a different scent profile.
Studies on Rosewood:
Summary: This research focuses on the antifungal properties of the essential oil from Aniba roseodora var. amazonica. The oil demonstrated significant inhibitory effects on common fungal strains, indicating its potential as a natural remedy for fungal infections.
Citation: Pimentel et al., 2018
Antioxidant activity of Aniba roseodora var. amazonica essential oil and its potential in oxidative stress reduction.
Summary: This study assesses the antioxidant properties of the essential oil derived from Aniba roseodora var. amazonica. It was found to have a high antioxidant capacity, which can help mitigate oxidative stress and may be beneficial in preventing various chronic diseases associated with oxidative damage.
Citation: Teles et al., 2020
Sedative and anxiolytic effects of Aniba roseodora var. amazonica essential oil in behavioural stress models.
Summary: This research explores the sedative and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects of Aniba roseodora var. amazonica essential oil. The study suggests that inhalation of the oil can significantly reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, offering potential use in stress management and relaxation therapies.
Citation: dos Santos et al., 2018
Caution: Do not use if pregnant, nor take it internally. Keep away from babies.
Could you record your impression of this oil in your Journal?
The Video on the Lauraceae Family with Robert:
After watching the video and sniffing the oils you have from the Lauraceae family, go to your Practical Potions, Accompanying Journal by scrolling down this page to Download. Try creating a ravintsara chest rub and do a scent impressions sheet for all the oils in this family that you can: https://www.northernstarcourses.com/lesson/f-the-scent-impressions-sheet/