By Katrina Scampini, Certified Aromatherapist
Let’s talk about an amazing essential oil that may not be on your radar — yet! Say hello to Elemi! This lesser-known oil is actually a distant relative to Frankincense and Myrrh, and similarly, is acquired through the steam distillation of a tree’s resinous gum. Its tree, the Canarium luzonicum, is a large evergreen native to the tropical forests of the Philippines. Not only does this tree create a fragrant essential oil, but its seeds, nuts, and fruit pulp are all edible and the bark is used in baths to help provide postpartum relief . This is a pretty awesome plant!
Its essential oil is equally as useful.
It provides support to the respiratory system, can help reduce inflammation , and is a wonderful way to rejuvenate dull or mature skin. Elemi is rich in monoterpenes and is especially high in limonene. Limonene, often found in citrus essential oils, is known to boost the immune system by activating white blood cells . It is also known to promote the skin healing process when superficial wounds occur . In general, resin-based oils are great for reducing the appearance of scars and supporting healthy tissue regrowth .
Elemi has a lovely tangy-sweet scent with hints of musk. It’s peppery with a touch of citrus as well, giving this essential oil a very unique and complex aroma profile. To enjoy the grounding and balancing effects of Elemi, diffuse during meditation practices or use in an aromatherapy inhaler to help with mood as needed. It can help clear a cluttered mind, making it easier to focus on whatever you need to get done.
Elemi’s dermatological uses include supporting aged and dry complexions, balancing sebum (the natural oil your body produces), and reducing the appearance of wrinkles . To restore healthy, younger-looking skin, dilute Elemi to 1% in your favorite carrier oil and apply to your face. Or, add 2 drops each of Elemi, Lavender, and Neroli to 4 teaspoons of a skin supporting carrier oil, like Rosehip or Meadowfoam, for a powerful anti-aging blend.
For other areas of your body, dilute up to 3%. When sore, overworked muscles are getting you down, massage diluted Elemi directly onto the areas of concern. Perfect for after a good workout or if your day left you with uncomfortable, tense muscles.
Try this wonderful blend using Elemi for a sensual, spicy, citrusy, and sweet linen spray!
Aphrodisiac Linen Spray
What you’ll need:
- 1.5 oz water
- .5 oz Everclear
- 8 drops Bergamot
- 4 drops Coriander
- 4 drops Cardamom
- 8 drops Orange Sweet
- 4 drops Elemi
- 4 drops Neroli
Add all these products to your cart
What you’ll do:
Add water, Everclear, and essential oils to a spray bottle. Shake well before each use!
Sources:
. Gray, A. Canarium luzonicum. Retrieved from https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Canarium+luzonicum
. Chemical Families: Monoterpenes. Retrieved from https://www.aromahead.com/online-course/aromatherapy-certification-program/reference/chemical-families/monoterpenes
. Worwood, V. (2016). The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy, 25th Anniversary Edition. Novato, CA: New World Library. Pg. 584.
Elemi Essential Oil Spotlight. Retrieved from http://info.aromahead.com/elemi-essential-oil
. Orchard, A., & van Vuuren, S. (2017). Commercial Essential Oils as Potential Antimicrobials to Treat Skin Diseases. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine : eCAM, 2017, 4517971. http://doi.org/10.1155/2017/4517971
