Sugandha Kokila Essential Oil

Sugandha-kokila-bannerWhat a conventional name this oil has! The name ‘Sugandha Kokila’ sounds like a typical Indian name concealing a handful of health benefits in it. And I am not wrong; ‘Sugandha’ is a Sanskrit name meaning ‘Fragrant’.

The unique, rich, herbaceous, warm, camphoraceous and spicy aroma of Sugandha Kokila essential oil is extracted from the dried berries of this plant, scientifically known as Cinnamomum glaucescens is a member of the Lauraceae family. The ancient Ayurvedic texts recommend the use of this oil as a natural tonic for the digestive system and the central nervous system.

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This is an evergreen tree native to the tropical Himalayan regions in Nepal, Bhutan and India (Khasi Hills, Sikkim and Manipur). Sugandha Kokila tree is locally known as Gondsoroi and Malligiri and Cinnamon berry is its common name. This large-sized tree has the potential to grow in plains as well as hilly areas up to an average altitude of 1500m.

The major constituents and therapeutic properties:

Experts say that the constituents of this oil belong to the chemical family of monoterpenes, esters and oxides. The principal constituents responsible for the remedial properties of this oil are a-pinene, ß- pinene, camphor, sabinene, eucalyptol, a- terpineol, 1,8-cineole, ß-phellandrene (trace), ß–myrcene, p-Cymene, linalool and trans methyl cinnamate.

The therapeutic values of Sugandha Kokila essential oil are digestive, anti-arthritic, carminative, analgesic, antiseptic, relaxant, stomachic, antimicrobial, emmenagogue, astringent and antibiotic.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Sugandha Kokila oil:

Ayurveda is an optimistic curative methodology that considers illness as an opportunity for healing and as the right time for change. Being the oldest medicinal system, Ayurveda trusts that good health is the harmony between one’s physical, mental and spiritual wellness depending upon his/her diet, lifestyle and certain other environmental factors.

Ayurvedic approach towards health is highly accepted for its simple treatment techniques using natural medications like herbs and essential oils along with exercises, yoga, meditation, lifestyle changes and the art of balanced living.

Essential oils are the vital life force of plants as they transform the real energy of the plants from which they are extracted. Ayurveda believes that this vital energy of plants will highly help in increasing the prana or life force of human beings when used in an appropriate manner. Essential oils are said to strengthen the sense of smell, the predominant one among the five senses.

The aromatic molecules of the essential oils reach the limbic system of the brain through the nasal passage, where limbic system is the control center that is responsible for feelings, emotions and certain other functions of the body. Using essential oils in Abhyanga or the art of Ayurvedic massaging grant ultimate relief by entering into the bloodstream gradually.

Sugandha Kokila essential oil, for its matchless aroma and incredible healing values is called as ‘A Gift to Perfumers from the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal’.

The most important Ayurvedic health benefits of this oil are:

Sugandha-kokila-broucher1. Alleviates pain and inflammation:

Sugandha Kokila essential oil is a natural analgesic that deadens pain. It aids in enhancing blood circulation and the astringent property of this oil supports the contraction of blood vessels therefore lessening swelling, inflammation and irritation.

The anti-arthritic and warming property of this oil calms the nerves and soothes the muscles, making it an effective natural remedy for treating rheumatism, arthritis, muscular pain, sprains, inflamed joints and certain other problems due to improper blood circulation.

Massaging the painful area with a blend of few drops of Sugandha Kokila oil and Juniper oil along with soothing carrier oils like coconut oil can relieve tension in the muscles and foster blood circulation.

2. Relieves stress:

The essential oil extracted from the berries of Sugandha Kokila tree is an excellent tonic for the central nervous system. The relaxant properties of this oil supports in treating problems associated with stress and anxiety.

Tension headache, nervous tension, fear, insomnia, tiredness and lack of concentration can be managed at ease by using few drops of Sugandha Kokila oil in your warm bathing water or air freshener or to diffusers. Inhaling the comforting aroma of this oil clears your mind, increases your concentration power and grants you a sense of ultimate support.

3. Supports the digestive system:

The carminative, digestive and stomachic properties of this oil supports the digestive system and aids the process of metabolism. Massaging few drops of this oil blended with soothing carrier oils can assist one in relieving flatulence, promoting quick digestion and improving appetite. It can also be used as a bathing oil in a tub of warm water for assisting the functions of your digestive system.

4. Strengthens the entire system:

Sugandha Kokila oil increases the immune power and makes the body resistant against infections, microbes, harmful bacteria and other micro-organisms affecting its normal functioning. The antiseptic, anti-bacterial and antimicrobial properties of this oil help control infections like urinary infections and protect the system.

As an expectorant and decongestant, this oil is also beneficial to the respiratory system. It assists in breaking down and removing of excess mucus in the respiratory system. 2 to 3 drops of this oil can be added to your facial steam water for loosening the mucus.

5. Benefitting the chakras:

According to Ayurveda, Chakras are the transfer points for human feelings, emotions and functioning of certain endocrine glands. There are 7 chakras in a human body. Light Miller in her book ‘Ayurveda and Aromatherapy’ has said that “the essential oils increase the finest and farthest vibrations and assist all of the subtle bodies. Essential oils can stigmata and assist in the process of awakening, healing, opening the chakras, and strengthening the aura”.

Sugandha Kokila essential oil is said to benefit the 4th chakra-heart chakra dealing with absolute love for self and the divine, 2nd chakra-sacral chakra responsible for relationships, immune system, energy creation and sexual feelings and the 5th chakra-throat chakra accountable for integrity and speaking truth. Inhaling the aroma of this oil added to diffusers, vaporizers or burners can help you in strengthening your chakras.

Apart from these benefits, Sugandha Kokila oil is also used in making perfumes, incenses, scents, detergents, industrial fragrances and cosmetics.

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose or replace any prescribed medication or professional advice. Do not use essential oils internally and consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before using it. Essential oils are highly concentrated so keep them out of reach of children.

Thought for the day:

The trees that are slow to grow bear the best fruit.   -Moliere

Suggested Reading:

  1. Ayurveda in Nepal: Volume One: Ayurvedic Principles, Diagnosis and Treatment from Wasteland Press
  2. In Search of the Medicine Buddha: A Himalayan Journey by David Crow
  3. The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Oils in Aromatherapy & Herbalism by Julia Lawless

Reference Links:

  1. Investigation of Nepalese Essential Oils. I. The Oil of Cinnamomum glaucescens (Sugandha Kokila)
  2. Sugandha Kokila oil by Everest Herbs
  3. Aromatherapy from Ayurveda’s Perspective by Yayoi Stavish

Alpha-terpineol

Alpha-terpineol is one of the isomers of terpineol, which is a monoterpene alcohol found in Pine oil, Cajeput oil and petitgrain oil. It is present in the barbed skull cap, Lapsang souchong tea, a black tea from China. When the leaves of Lapsang souchong is dried using the pine smoke, alpha terpineol and longifolene are produced.

Alpha-terpineol is the major constituent of the mixture of the isomers that together form terpineol. Its molecular formula is C10H18O and it is also referred by various other names such as 1-alpha-terpineol, DL-alpha-terpineol, alpha terpineol sodium salt and so on.

Attributes of alpha-terpineol:

It is a colorless oily liquid to solid with floral lilac aroma. It owns sweet lime taste. It is used as a flavoring agent due to its distinctiveness. It is used as intermediates, solvents and as a fragrancing agent in perfumery.

Therapeutic properties of alpha-terpineol:

Antimicrobial activity:

Alpha-terpineol exhibits antibacterial activity. In the study “Antimicrobial effect of linalool and α-terpineol against periodontopathic and cariogenic bacteria” it was established that alpha terpineol showed antimicrobial activity against periodontopathic and cariogenic bacteria.

According to the study, “The proposed mechanism of bactericidal action of eugenol, alpha-terpineol and gamma-terpinene against Listeria monocytogenes, Streptococcus pyogenes, Proteus vulgaris and Escherichia coli”, it was found that alpha terpineol was active against the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes, Streptococcus pyogenes, Proteus vulgaris and Escherichia coli.

Antifungal activity:

Alpha terpineol possesses antifungal effect against a range of fungi. It is evident from the study “Antifungal activity of the components of Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil” that alpha terpineol present in Melaleuca alternifolia is active against a range of fungi with minimum inhibitory concentrations and minimum fungicidal concentrations.

In another study titled “Antifungal activity of citral, octanal and alpha-terpineol against Geotrichum citri-aurantii”, it is also made clear that alpha terpineol exhibit antifungal activity against Geotrichum citri-aurantii.

In the book named “Candidiasis—Advances in Research and Treatment: 2012 Edition: Scholarly Paper”, it is mentioned that alpha terpineol present in the essential oil of Artemisia princeps pamp., reduces the growth of Candida albicans and Gardnerella vaginalisis.

Anti-inflammatory effect:

Alpha terpineol is also acclaimed for its anti-inflammatory effect, which is evident from the study “Characterization of α-Terpineol as an anti-inflammatory component of Orange Juice by in Vitro Studies Using oral Buccal Cells”. In this study, it was found that alpha terpineol found in the orange juice possess anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting the formation of pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6.

In another study “The water-soluble components of the essential oil of Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree oil) suppress the production of superoxide by human monocytes, but not neutrophils, activated in vitro”, it was made clear that alpha-terpineol suppress the production of silver oxide and regulates the functioning of cells during inflammation.

Anti-proliferative effect:

A study titled “Antiproliferative activity of essential oils derived from plants belonging to the Magnoliophyta division” was conducted to test the anti-proliferative effects of the essential oils from different plants in Magnoliophyta family. It was determined that alpha terpineol and caryophyllene present in the essential oils exhibited remarkable anti-proliferative effects on human erythroleukemic K562 cells.

Anticancer activity:

Alpha-terpineol exhibits anticancer activity against human cell lung carcinoma. According to the study “Alpha Terpineol: A Potential Anticancer Agent which Acts through Suppressing NF-κB Signalling” the cytotoxic effect and anticancer activity of alpha terpineol was examined. It was found that alpha terpineol when treated on human cell lung carcinoma reduces the growth of the tumour cells through suppression of NF-κB pathway.

Skin penetration enhancement:

In a study “Terpenes and the Lipid–Protein–Partitioning Theory of Skin Penetration Enhancement”, it was reported that alpha terpineol acts as a skin penetration enhancer by enhancing the permeability of skin to lipid soluble compounds.

Reference Links:

  1. Terpineol by Wikipedia
  2. Antimicrobial effect of linalool and α-terpineol against periodontopathic and cariogenic bacteria
  3. The proposed mechanism of bactericidal action of eugenol, alpha-terpineol and gamma-terpinene against Listeria monocytogenes, Streptococcus pyogenes, Proteus vulgaris and Escherichia coli
  4. Antifungal activity of citral, octanal and alpha-terpineol against Geotrichum citri-aurantii
  5. Characterization of α-Terpineol as an Anti-inflammatory Component of Orange Juice by in Vitro Studies Using Oral Buccal Cells
  6. Alpha Terpineol: A Potential Anticancer Agent which Acts through Suppressing NF-κB Signalling

Best Christmas Gift Idea 2012: Adoring Ayurvedic Essential Oils

Are you thinking ‘What is wrong with me?’ wondering what’s the need for Christmas gift idea now, while there are still 4 full months for December 25th to knock your door? Come on! This is scorching summer season and to think about something that will enchant your mind, chill your senses and hearten your spirits will certainly be a brilliant idea and nothing else other than Christmas Eve has the glory to splash such joy on you. Sounds great now….. Right!! This is the right time to start your Christmas count down. Every year Christmas is exceptional in its special way. This year, you make it out of the ordinary by gifting your loved ones with warm and healing Ayurvedic essential oils rather than your usual gifts.

Your 2011 Christmas might not have been the same as your 2008 Christmas. You might have missed your loved ones or there might have been a new member to your family last year (baby!), much more adventure and a variety of gifts and that is what Christmas is all about. Make your 2012 Christmas outshine all the other festive seasons that you’ve passed in your lifetime with a wonderful pack of sensational essential oils that can take your entire family out of this world. Yes! There are certain mind-blowing Ayurvedic essential oils that suit everyone and can be used all through the year till the next Christmas comes by your way. Such enlivening essential oils are:

  1. Lavender essential oil: According to me ‘Lavender is the queen of all essential oils’ and is my all-time favorite. How can anyone keep themselves away from this magnificent oil with a mystique fragrance in it? Fill your love in a bottle full of Lavender essential oil that can uplift the spirits and refresh the mind. Wow! The wonderful color, the exuberant aroma, immense health benefits and numerous therapeutic properties like nervine, sedative, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, antiseptic, analgesic, anti-rheumatic, anti-convulsant and many more make Lavender very special at all the good times and sick times too!
  2. Ylang Ylang essential oil: Nothing can be so very romantic, tender, quixotic, passionate and magical like the transfixing fragrance of Ylang Ylang essential oil. This oil has emmenagogue, sedative, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, hypotensive and antidepressant properties that alleviates pain, supports mood fluctuations, controls high blood pressure, aids in frigidity problems, brings down rapid heartbeat and treats your senses.
  3. Rose essential oil: Shakespeare rightly said that ‘Rose is a rose is a rose is a rose’. Very popularly known as the symbol of love all around the universe, Rose essential oil can give you the joy of being together in a garden full of fresh, fragrant roses. Rose oil has been proven effective in treating various health conditions with its aphrodisiac, antiseptic, antiviral, antidepressant, antiphlogistic, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, uterine, bactericidal and nervine properties.
  4. Grapefruit essential oil: Grapefruit oil with its light and fresh aroma is trusted to have great effects in shedding the extra pounds of the body. Any weight loss program with essential oils cannot get fulfilled without Grapefruit essential oil. It is also an excellent skin toning agent and natural skin purifier.

Apart from these essential oils, you can also include Peppermint essential oil, Sandalwood essential oil, Sweet orange essential oil or Jasmine essential oil as per the preference of your near ones.

Love is known only when it is shown. Express your unconditional love this Christmas season with the never-ending bliss of these Ayurvedic essential oils gift pack. There’s nothing to get surprised if the love of your life asks for one the next Christmas also. Wait and watch!!!

Merry Christmas and let it be a Mesmerizing Christmas as well.

Reference links:

  1. Christmas by History.com
  2. Health benefits of Rose essential oil by Organic facts
  3. Ylang Ylang – The Great Benefits by Ylang Ylang Essential Oil