Type of plant: Evergreen tree growing to 120 feet high with thick feathery leaves and red flowers and fruits
Part used: Sawdust and wood chippings
Method of extraction: Steam distillation
Data: This South American rain forest tree is endangered and now under protection, with only sustainable sources allowed to be harvested. The heartwood of this laurel-family tree was once much prized for furniture production and instrument making. The essential oil is distilled from sawdust and wood chippings created by wood working. The wood is said to have an aroma similar to the rose flower, hence the name. The essential oil is used in perfumery and cosmetics.
Principal places of production: Brazil, Central America, Peru
When buying look for: A colorless to pale-yellow liquid with a warm, slightly spicy, sweet, floral, woody aroma
Therapeutic properties: Analgesic, anthelmintic, antifungal, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antiviral, calmative, cytophylactic, insect deterrent, spasmolytic, stimulant, tonic
Therapeutic uses: Bronchial infection, tonsillitis, cough, stress headache, convalescence, acne, eczema, psoriasis, scarring, insect bites and stings, nervousness, depression, anxiety, stress-related conditions; tonic
Blends well with: Bergamot, cananga, cardamom, cedarwood, chamomile roman, clary sage, frankincense, galbanum, geranium, ho wood, immortelle, jasmine, lavandin, lavender, lemon, linden blossom, magnolia leaf, marjoram (sweet), myrtle, narcissus, neroli, nutmeg, orange (sweet), petitgrain, rose absolute, rose otto, sandalwood, tuberose, ylang ylang, yuzu
Precautionary advice: No contraindications known. GRAS status.