Type of plant: Small herbaceous plant that grows to around 2 feet in height, with downy silvery-white leaves, small yellow flowers, and tiny seeds

Part used: Leaves and flowering tops

Method of extraction: Steam distillation

Data: In India the flowers are cultivated for garlands to be used in ceremonies and for essential oil production. The plant has a spiritual association with the Hindu god Shiva, and the blossoms are offered as decorations for the altars and are used in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine. The essential oil is used in perfumes and fragrances, due to its unique fruity odor. In some parts of the world davana is used as a flavoring ingredient in beverages and baking.

Principal place of production: India

When buying look for: A dark-yellow to amber liquid with a complex aroma of sweet fruit with a slightly warm, citrus, herbaceous, aroma

Therapeutic properties: Antidepressant, anti-infectious, antimicrobial, antiseptic, calmative, decongestive, mucolytic, nervine, restorative, stomachic

Therapeutic uses: Bacterial infection, bronchial congestion, coughs, colds, influenza, nervous stomach, indigestion, nausea, menstrual cramp, menopausal symptoms, general debility, anxiety, stress, irritability, tension

Blends well with: Basil linalol, basil tulsi, cardamom, clary sage, frankincense, galbanum, geranium, ginger, grapefruit, lavender (spike), lemon, lime, manuka, mastic, may chang, rosemary, rosewood, spikenard, vetiver, ylang ylang

Precautionary advice: Best avoided during pregnancy and while breast-feeding.