Author Archives: AyurvedicOils

alpha.-Thujene

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Thujene is a natural flavoring obtained from Eucalyptus. It is a natural organic compound classified as a monoterpene. It finds it place in the cosmetic industry as it attributes it’s fragrance to the essential oils that it’s seen in. It forms a major part of the constituents in essential oils of a variety of plants, and contributes a strong spicy flavor of certain herbs as seen in Summer savory.

The term thujene usually refers to α-thujene which is less commonly known and is chemically related double-bond isomer is known as β-thujene (or 2-thujene). Another double-bond isomer is known as sabinene. Thujene also goes under other names as well 3-Thujene, and Thujiene.

alpha.-Thujene & its Therapeutic Uses:

Antioxidant Activities:

A study carried out on the Artemisia species, an important medicinal plant proved the antioxidant capabilities of thujene. Not many reports on the biological activity and chemistry of the oil are available as the amount of quality oil generated is minimal in this genus. A study was performed where the chemical oils were derived from the stem and leaves of Artemisia aucheri and Artemisia sieberi that is found growing in Kashan rangelands of central Iran.

On analysis using the GC-MS technique, where 50 compounds isolated from 96.55% of the oil was from Artemisia sieberi, and 23 identified compounds were isolated from Artemisia aucheri.

The study was quite successful in extracting the highest amounts of α-thujene as its yield was quite higher than expected. Both the specimens extracted showed that α-thujene was in its highest concentrations, with the aucheri species showing as far as 74.42%. Results showed that antioxidant activities were seen during the research using β-carotene/linoleic acid assay.

Anti- Malarial (Anti-Viral):

A study conducted in Iran stated that Thujene also acts as an active anti- malarial agent as well. Using the essential oils of A. aucheri and A. sieberi from parts of central Iran the anti-malarial activity of the chemical constituent a-thujene was studied.

The specimen derived showed high concentration of α-thujene which was analyzed to have high flavor, and served as an anti-microbial and anti-malarial agent. This makes K-HP and K-HS an important constituent in the industry of medicine.

Anti-Bacterial:

The anti-bacterial effect by thujene was detected in a test conducted on Juniperus thurifera L. essential oils. According to the study the oil derived contained, Δ-amorphene, α-thujene, p-cymene, α-pinene, linalyl acetate, germacrene D-4-ol, α-phellandrene and 4-epi-abietal.

The constitutes were seen in larger quantities when derived from the female tree, rather than the male tree, resulting in the female tree extracts showing a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity towards both gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus clinical, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, and MRSA)  and gram negative bacteria (Serratia marcescens,  Escherichia coli clinical, Proteus permeri, Shigella sp, Meningo sp.).

Antimicrobial Activity:

During the testing the anti-microbial activity of thujene, the study read, the essential oils of three major Salvia species were derived and studied to identify the possibilities of having antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, and also to understand its chemical compositions.

The partakers of the study were Salvia aucheri var. aucheri (endemic), Salvia aramiensis and Salvia pilifera (endemic). Of the extracts derived, alpha-thujene (36.1%), S. pilifera oil, and alpha-pinene (13.8%) were seen in their respective concentrations. The results of the experiment were that S. aramiensis showed a higher extent of antioxidant activity than those of the others. In terms of antimicrobial activity, the results proved most sensitive for Acinetobacter lwoffii and Candida albicans.

Herbicidal Activity:

A study on the ‘Chemical composition, antifungal and herbicidal effects of essential oil isolated from Chersodoma Argentina’ was conducted. During the study, hydrodistilled essential oil obtained from the aerial parts of Chersodoma argentina Cabrera by the process of GC-MS was used.

On performing a NMR spectroscopy, the derived composition was found containing 80% of its content to be monoterpene hydrocarbons which included alpha-thujene, alpha-pinene and beta-pinene. Results obtained proved the herbicidal activity of a-thujene by revealing by reduced root growth of Solanum lycopersicon, Allium porrum, and Sorghum halepense in both assays.

Reference Links:

  1. Thujene by Wikipedia
  2. Chemical composition, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of the essential oils of three Salvia species from Turkish flora by Suleyman Demirel University, Department of Horticulture, Turkey, published in PubMed
  3. Chemical composition, antifungal and herbicidal effects of essential oil isolated from Chersodoma Argentina by Universidad Nacional de Salta (UNSa), Argentina, published in PubMed

Linalool

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Linalool is seen in over 200 species of plants especially in the ones of the Botanical family, Lamiaceae, which includes scented herbs and mints. This is a very commonly seen terpene alcohol chemical which is present in spice plants that find many commercial applications.

They are also seen in Rutaceae plant family (citrus fruits), and the Lauraceae family (laurels, cinnamon, rosewood) families that are found in the tropical to boreal climate zones.

Linalool has also been found in some fungi and cannabis. They have a pleasant scent similar to a floral fragrance, with a touch of spiciness. Linalool also goes by other names such as β-linalool, p-linalool, linalyl alcohol, linalyl oxide, 3,7-dimethyl-1,6-octadien-3-ol, and allo-ocimenol.

Therapeutic attributes of Linalool:

Anti-inflammatory:

Linalool is seen to reduce inflammation. It is one of the major constituent seen in most essential oils, and exhibits the properties and characteristics of an anti-inflammatory agent.

A 2002 from the Journal of Phytomedicine suggests “The results obtained indicate that linalool and the corresponding acetate play a major role in the anti-inflammatory activity displayed by the essential oils containing them, and provide further evidence suggesting that linalool and linalyl acetate-producing species are potentially anti-inflammatory agents.” This seems to indicate that it would be acting to decrease the inflammation.

Anti-epileptic:

Linalool is seen to reduce seizures and convulsions. The study on Anticonvulsant activity of the linalool of 2010 concludes that linalool was efficient in the prevention of tonic convulsions provoked by transcorneal electroshock in the experimented animals and linalool was proved to be very powerful than phenytoin in its anticonvulsant quality.

Sedative and anxiolytic:

It helps promotes sleep. A study in 2008 was unsuccessful in proving the anxiolytic effects of linalool. Instead, it provided strong support for evidence of its sedative qualities.

It suggests that linalool an extract of lavender has been known for its sedating and its calming effects and it’s interaction with the GABA receptor. The study raised desire to further investigate the chemical to identify its role as an anesthetic in future.

Analgesic:

According to a study in 2002, Linalool helps relieve pain. It first proved to be an anti-inflammatory and in 2003 it proved to be an analgesic as well. The study claimed that being a monoterpene compound, Linalool is a major constituent in various essential oils that are extracted from sweet-smelling plant species.

Most of which are employed in different complementary and alternative medicinal practices, especially for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

“The more pronounced effect of (-)-linalool on the writhing test with respect to the hot plate test is consistent with the observation that (-)-linalool possesses anti-inflammatory activity.”

Besides these, Linalool is also found to be an antidepressant, antipsychotic, and anxiolytic.

Other uses of Linalool: 

Linalool is also used as a chemical intermediate and has found its usage as a scent in 60–80% of perfumed hygiene products and cleaning agents including detergents, soaps, shampoos, and lotions. Linalool is used by pest professionals as an insecticide against fleas, fruit flies and cockroaches.

It is also used as a mosquito-repellent in certain products, but the EPA notes that “a preliminary screen of labels for products containing linalool indicates that efficacy data on file with the Agency may not support certain claims to repel mosquitoes.”

Reference Links:

  1. Linalool by Wikipedia
  2. Linalool by leaf online
  3. Investigation of the Anxiolytic effects of Linalool, a Lavender extract, in the Male Sprague-Dawley Rat, published in the AANA (American Association of Nurse Anesthetists) Journal.
  4. (-)-Linalool produces antinociception in two experimental models of pain, published in PubMed

Lavandin (Grosso) Oil

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Lavendin-bannerThe dream of filling your garden and your home with the mesmerizing fragrance of Lavender blossoms is not a distant dream anymore as Lavandin is such a simple medicinal plant that resembles Lavender and its enriching aroma never fails to fill your home any lesser than Lavender does. As a hybrid of Lavender vera and Spike lavender, Lavandin Grosso is an excellent remedy for scabies and certain other infectious skin problems.

World is a global village and it is this strong reason that turns the world towards the path of Traditional healing methodologies. Ayurveda, the mother of all healing sciences on earth is the pioneer of Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Lavandin is used in Ayurvedic healing for treating respiratory problems, breathing difficulties, acne, eczema, stiff joints, varicose veins, pain and depression.

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History of Lavandin (Grosso):

It is a hybrid variety of plants developed in the early 18th century and the essential oils extracted from these hybrid varieties were initially used for manufacturing soaps, perfumes and certain other personal hygiene products.

France is known as the major producer of Lavandin plants and essential oils. Lavandin essential oils are comparatively cheaper than True Lavender varieties. This is because unlike Lavender, these hybrid varieties can be grown as a commercially viable crop and are more tolerant to various climatic and growing conditions.

Lavandin Grosso is named after its discoverer Grosso and it reflects true qualities of both of its parentage with the camphoric aroma of Lavandula latifolia and the frost hardiness of Lavandula angustifolia. Among the numerous other Lavender hybrid plants, Lavandin Grosso is the most predominantly chosen plant by the commercial Lavender farm growers as it is easy to grow in most regions and produce abundant Lavandin flowers that contain ample amount of essential oils.

The big and bright flowers of this plant are also used for making sachets (keeps your clothes fresh and protect from moths and other insects) and the long stems are used in making Lavender wands. Initially, Lavandin and its essential oil were used as an analgesic and antiseptic for relieving pain, inflammation and for healing wounds and skin infections. Lavandin flowers were also used in making tea that was trusted to discharge excess mucous deposits and to assist breathing difficulties.

Chemical constituents or Gas Chromatography Report (GC) of Lavandin Grosso oil:

According to the Gas chromatography report, Lavandin Grosso oil constitutes of 25 chemical components that contribute to its fragrance, therapeutic attributes, consistency and quality. Of which, Linalyl acetate contributes to the highest proportion of Lavandin Grosso oil constituents with about 34.5% of its total composition.

Just click on:

I believe that this must certainly help you in getting to know the exclusive information about these prime chemical constituents of Lavandin Grosso oil.

The table crafted below clearly depicts the unique nature and contributions of these biochemical constituents to the healing magnificence of Lavandin Grosso essential oil.

lavandin-oil

Therapeutic properties of Lavandin Oil:

The remedial properties are antiseptic, antidepressant, analgesic, vulnerary, expectorant, cicatrisant, nervine, antispasmodic and stimulant.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Lavandin Essential Oil:

Many of us misconstrue that Ayurveda and the other traditional healing practices are meant for the old people or people who are still attached to the Stone Age. Ayurveda is the first and foremost healing methodology to love human beings and appreciate their individual identity, feelings, characteristics and behavioral patterns.

When all other medical sciences in this world aim at treating illnesses, this ancient healing system focused on treating individuals and not just their illnesses.

Ayurvedic philosophy declares that human beings are a part of nature and a person’s wellness or sickness depends upon his balance or imbalance with nature. Diseases occur when an individual’s mind and body is out of balance with nature. It is for this reason Ayurvedic remedies are based upon natural medicines for striking perfect balance with an archway to prevention and healthy aging.

Every individual is distinctive with a unique individual constitution that comprises of three biological energies known as doshas. They are vata, pitta and kapha. Each of these doshas governs certain functions of our body where vata is responsible for nervous functions and circulation, pitta controls metabolism and body temperature and kapha governs fluid movements, consistency and skin health.

Predominance of any of these doshas determines the personality, character, physical set up and the mental makeup of a person.

Imbalance between any of these doshas causes illness and Ayurvedic medications are prescribed in such a way that the imbalances are treated. Lavandin essential oil is said to reduce kapha and pitta dosha and has a neutral effect on vata dosha.

Let’s take a look at the Ayurvedic health benefits of Lavandin essential oil:

lavandin-broucher1. Benefits to the skin:

Popular author Susanne Fischer-Rizzi states that Lavender has more than 167 tested and proven medicinal uses. Bryan Miller and Light Miller in their book ‘Ayurveda and Aromatherapy’ says that Lavender is a must have essential oil in your first-aid kit or travel bag. With much similar aroma and healing properties like Lavender, Lavandin essential oil is also beneficial in a number of ways especially for nurturing skin health.

With excellent antiseptic, vulnerary and cicatrisant properties Lavandin essential oil has been proven effective for treating numerous skin problems. It keeps the skin clean and fights against various germs.

The ability of this oil in killing germs contributes to its effectiveness in treating dermatitis, scabies and few other infectious skin disorders. Being an effective antiseptic Lavandin essential oil can assist in treating wounds, cuts, burns, boils and rashes. It protects the open wounds from being septic or getting affected by the harmful organisms in air like tetanus.

The vulnerary properties of this oil helps in speeding up the process of healing wounds especially in case of incisions, surgical wounds, cuts or other accidental wounds. Applying 2 drops of Lavandin essential oil mixed with 1 ml of coconut oil is a sure-shot remedy for quick healing of wounds, protecting from infections and for fading away the scars and marks left by wounds, acne, stretch marks, surgical marks, cracks and other marks related to pregnancy.

Lavendin essential oil improves blood circulation and encourages the growth of new skin cells which contribute to its natural anti-scarring properties. You can also blend 3 to 4 drops of Lavendin oil in 2 ml of olive oil or to your regular skin care lotion and gently massage on to the skin to clear blemishes, treat sluggishness, dry skin and for improving the natural glow of the skin.

2. Benefits to the mind:

Lavandin essential oil has a rejuvenating and calming aroma that acts as an admirable antidepressant oil. The presence of camphor, linalyl acetate and terpineol-4 enhances its soothing and stimulating attributes that benefit the mind and heart in numerous ways. Lavandin Grosso oil is regarded as a great natural remedy for alleviating stress, fatigue, anxiety and depression. Certain studies have proven that Lavandin essential oil have anxiolytic effects that aid in improving the quality of sleep and save you from insomnia and nightmares.

Feelings of loneliness, lack of self-confidence, insecurity, loss of love or your near ones and work pressure may drag you down and waive a red flag to all your endeavors. All you need to do is to waive back the pleasant Lavandin flag that can uplift your spirit, enhance your self-confidence, fight against depressive feelings and reassure your success.

Adding 2 to 3 drops of Lavandin oil in your vaporizer, burner, diffuser, aroma lamp or bath tub can help in combating negative thoughts and grant the power to swim against the tide.

A 2009 study on ‘The use of the essential oil of Lavandin to reduce preoperative anxiety in surgical patients’ by the United Hospital, MN, USA tested about 150 adult patients to assess the effectiveness of Lavandin essential oil in reducing preoperative anxiety than other standard care methodologies. This study came up with an amazing result stating “Controlling for baseline anxiety and pain, the lavandin group had significantly lower anxiety on OR transfer, suggesting that lavandin is a simple, low-risk, cost-effective intervention with the potential to improve preoperative outcomes and increase patient satisfaction.”

3. Benefits to the respiratory system:

Adding 2 to 3 drops of Lavandin essential oil in steam inhalation or blending 2 drops of Lavandin oil with 1 ml of coconut oil and massaging it on chest, throat and back aids in treating cough, cold, bronchitis, sinusitis, chest congestion and other breathing problems. This is mainly due to the antiseptic properties of Lavandin oil that is proven to combat germs causing respiratory problems and its expectorant values that expel mucous and phlegm deposits in the chest and nasal passages causing cough and congestion.

4. Benefits to the entire body:

Lavandin Grosso oil benefits the entire body by supporting the functions of the nervous system. Using it as a massage oil by mixing 5 drops of this oil with 2.5 ml of jojoba oil aid in strengthening the nervous system and activate the nerves that pass on to different parts of the body. This is of great assistance in treating nervousness, sluggishness, convulsions, Alzheimer’s disease, lack of concentration and reflexes and certain other nervous problems.

Jane Buckle says “Lavandin Grosso was shown to be very effective against non-tubercular opportunistic mycobacteria (NTM) which is common in AIDS. Grosso is high in linalool for infections.” Lavandin essential oil also aids in treating pain, inflammation, rheumatism, influenza, headache, stiff joints, muscular problems etc, with its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Disclaimer:

This article is only for the purpose of information and is not destined for diagnosis or to substitute any prescribed medicines or professional advice. Never use essential oils internally and always use them in a diluted form for topical application as pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated liquids and may cause harm if not used properly. Prevention is better than cure and it is always advisable to consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before choosing the right essential oils for your unique constitution and health condition.

The MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) of Lavandin Grosso oil is readily available for your enhanced safety and better usage.

Gas Chromatography Report (GC analysis) of Lavandin Grosso oil.

Thought for the day:  

The Universe is one great kindergarten for man. Everything that exists has brought with it its own peculiar lesson.     -Orison Swett Marden

Suggested Reading:

  1. Lavender: The Genus Lavandula (Medicinal and Aromatic Plants – Industrial Profiles) from CRC Press
  2. ISO 8902:1999, Oil of lavandin Grosso (Lavandula angustifolia Miller x Lavandula latifolia (L.f.) Medikus), French type by ISO TC 54
  3. The Lavender Garden: Beautiful Varieties to Grow and Gather by Robert Kourik
  4. The Lavender Lover’s Handbook: The 100 Most Beautiful and Fragrant Varieties for Growing, Crafting, and Cooking by Sarah Berringer Bader

Reference Links:

  1. The use of the essential oil of Lavandin to reduce preoperative anxiety in surgical patients’ by the United Hospital, MN, USA published in PubMed
  2. Lavandula by Wikipedia
  3. Lavandula x intermedia ‘Grosso’ by Missouri Botanical Garden
  4. Health Benefits of Lavandin Essential Oil by Organic Facts