Cocoa Butter

Posted on October 22, 2025 by AyurvedicOils

Beyond being the base for tempting chocolate varieties across the world, Cocoa is the source of rich and nutrient vegetable fat known as Cocoa butter.

Cocoa and its resultant chocolates are known for enhancing the positive neurotransmitters in the brain and can make one happy and ecstatic at any given moment. The presence of chemical constituents like Tyramine and Anandamide are responsible for its euphoric benefits, where the word ‘Anandamide’ is extracted from the Sanskrit word ‘Ananda’, meaning bliss.

Frequently blended with Jojoba oil, Cocoa butter is used in Ayurvedic remedies for treating stretch marks, scars, sunburn, mature and dry skin conditions, and for discarding dead skin cells.

Standing tall as one among the key agricultural export commodities on the earth, Cocoa is the moral fiber for many countries in Africa, including Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire.

Joshua Needleman of Chocolate Springs Café rightly says, “Cocoa beans and their creation into chocolate have been prized for their health and wellness benefits for hundreds of years. There’s magic in this precious food: Chocolate is inspiration for the soul.”

Purchase Organic Cocoa Butter – Unrefined – Retail – 3 oz

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Historical uses and importance of Cocoa butter:

With its direct meaning as ‘Food of the Gods, the seeds from the Theobroma cacao L. tree of the Sterculiaceae plant family are called Cocoa beans. Tagged as the ‘Golden Pod’ for its elemental part in the economy of the Nation, Cocoa is the pampered child of the province of Ghana.

It has been a prized luxury that dates back 3000 years ago and were very common in the Aztec and the Mayan civilizations. They were and are famous for the very well known food produced in the food industry called ‘chocolate.’

The Mesoamerica and Caribbean have been the prominent sources of Cocoa beans for centuries and are claimed to be indigenous to South and Central America. They have been harvested and put to use extremely for its moisturizing effect on the skin, accounted to its emollient properties, with a smooth texture and mild fragrance.

Besides being used as food and medicine, the most interesting historical information about Cocoa beans is that it has been used as a form of currency since the primordial times. Even today, these brilliant cocoa beans are used as a currency type in certain parts of South America.

Cocoa also has extremely high hydrating properties, making it a major constituent in bath and body-care products, soaps and beauty brands. Cocoa butter is often found as a chunk or bar just as chocolate which is extracted from the cocoa bean. The raw or organic form of cocoa butter is extracted from pure cacao oil, and its color varies from cream to pale white when it’s a chunk.

Just as coconut oil, Cocoa butter is mostly a saturated fat. The concentration is seen in a quantity of 57% saturated to 64% unsaturated fat. This however may differ based on the kind of butter. There are different forms of cocoa butter, of which the raw or the unrefined Cocoa butter finds its place in the spot light. What makes it important?

During the process of manufacturing, the raw form of Cocoa butter isn’t heated to high temperatures making it the purest form of Cocoa butter available. For this reason during sale, this form of butter is labeled as ‘pure cocoa butter’ or ‘Raw Cocoa Butter’ which retain the compounds that are found in the Cocoa beans.

Manufacturing Cocoa Butter:

Cocoa butter is made by roasting fermented cocoa beans. Unlike other butters, cocoa butter is not separated from milk. After the butter is separated, the left over solids are used to make cocoa powder.

The butter is then further squeezed to release ‘chocolate liquor’; it is from this that the well known chocolate taste and smell is given out. To remove the fragrance of chocolate from the cocoa butter, industries deodorize the butter to create a yellow-beige colored butter that smells natural.

The cocoa butter produced is either consumed by the cosmetic industry, or the chocolate industry to make white and dark chocolates; the chocolate industry consumes the most cocoa butter in the world. The butter is known for being solid at room temperatures and melting at slightly higher temperatures (93–101 degrees F).

For this reason, cocoa butter is put to use in pharmaceuticals as it becomes liquid when ingested or rubbed against the skin as a lotion.

Chemical constituents of Cocoa Butter:

Cocoa contains theobromine, caffeine, anandamide, flavonoids, sulfur, proteins, magnesium, tryptophan and polyphenols including epicatechol. It also consists of numerous fatty acids like palmitic acid, myristic acid, oleic acid, stearic acid, arachidic acid, lauric acid, linoleic acid, glycerides and stigmasterol.

Therapeutic attributes of Cocoa Butter:

Cocoa contains high levels of anti-oxidants, as they contain polyphenol and flavonoids. Cocoa beans are said to contain polyphenols. The butter extracted from these beans retains a limited amount of polyphenols which help lower inflammation, improve immunity, and perk up heart health.

Cocoa butter exhibits anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, cytotoxic, nutritive, antiseptic, bactericidal, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, diuretic, nervine, aphrodisiac, stimulant, nervine and anti-oxidant properties.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Cocoa butter:

Cocoa butter is often said to pacify the kapha energy and aggravate pitta and vata doshas. Being an excellent relaxing agent for the muscles, Cocoa is a promising gift of nature for enhancing the natural energy quotient of the system.

David Wolfe and Shazzie quotes, “The pharmacological effects of Anandamide indicate that it may play an important part in the regulation of mood, memory, appetite, and pain perception. It may act as the chief component in the control of cognition and emotion. Psychological experiments demonstrate that Anandamide may be as important as the more well-known neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin.”

This is quoted in the book ‘The Everything Guide to Ayurveda: Improve Your Health, Develop Your Inner Energy, and Find Balance in Your Life.’

There are potent scientific proofs associated with the positive effects of Cocoa butter in treating mood fluctuations, regulating one’s appetite and in granting the ultimate elevated feeling of the mind and spirit.

Ayurvedic texts state that the famous Asthma drug, Deriphyllin contains theophyline, which is an effective bronchodilator and is extracted from Theobroma cacao.

Let’s unveil the Ayurvedic health benefits of Cocoa butter:

Non-toxic, edible cocoa butter is said to have several uses to it. It finds most of its applications in terms of beauty and is constantly put to use for hair and skin. Regular use of cocoa butter on the skin can make it a lot softer and smoother. It can help reduce effects caused by eczema and dermatitis, treat chaffed lips, dry skin, and dry brittle hair, reduce stretch marks, and get rid of scars as well.

1. Supports in treating aging skin problems:

The major cause for the early signs of aging is the infestation of harmful free radicals that curb the growth of healthy cellular structure. It might cause wrinkles, dark patches, crow’s foot, dull, dehydrated and mature skin conditions

Polyphenols seen in cocoa butter have been witnessed by proven studies in relation to anti-aging reaction. They also help treat dermatitis, and serve as anti-oxidants and an excellent natural topical cream.

They have extremely beneficial effects on the skin and improve skin health by increasing collagen retention and production, improve skin tone, skin elasticity and hydration. Cocoa butter has the tendency to penetrate epidermis (outer layer of the skin) and the dermis (inner layer of the skin) and starts restoring the repaired skin cells.

The polyphenols are also said to resist cell mutation, skin sensitivities, and degeneration of skin and even prevent cancer. When compared with beauty products available in the industry, both showed positive results, but cocoa was able to achieve the same quality without the irritant chemical effects caused by other artificial products.

A 2014 study was conducted on ‘Cocoa Bio-active Compounds: Significance and Potential for the Maintenance of Skin Health published in Nutrients and PubMed’ to understand the effect of polyphenol in cocoa butter in relation to the aging process.

Signs of skin aging though related to internal biological causes, some are related to external effects, such as pollution and UV rays.

During the process, the anti-photo carcinogenic effects of the polyphenols present in the plant were tested. The results suggested that polyphenols exhibited antioxidant properties, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and DNA repair properties.

This study further adds that cocoa, which is rich in flavanol enhances the dermal blood flow, augments photo-protection and support healthy skin.

The effects were positive and promising, suggesting that regular usage of naturally occurring polyphenols, can serve as protection towards the skin in relation to UV rays and photo aging.

2. Fights against skin infections:

Cocoa butter can be used to treat eczema, dermatitis, rashes and even on burnt skin. Rubbing a small portion of the butter on the burnt area can minimize the burnt effect on the skin, but caution should be taken to check the purity of the butter making sure it doesn’t contain alcohol, or perfumes or any other additives that might worsen the existing skin condition. The butter can also be mixed with 2 Tea tree oil or Lavender oil can help in promoting the soothing effecting on burnt and sensitive skin.

3. Acts as a natural protecting agent for skin and lips:

Cocoa butter has been commonly used on the lips as lip balms. It is mixed with orange, vanilla, grapefruit, and peppermint oil to make favored balms for lips and to treat delicate skin. It is a natural emollient and can be used as an extra layer to avoid sun damage, frost bite and even fight against indoor heat.

Cocoa butter can also be applied to mouth ulcers and sores on the lip to sooth them. It is also used as a shaving cream and as a relaxing after-shave cream. It can be applied to help prevent nicks while shaving and to moisturize the skin after. Applying a portion of cocoa butter after a warm shower can help in maintaining healthy skin. Since the hot water opens up the pores and make it easier to absorb the butter.

4. Shores up the functions of a healthy heart:

Saturated fat once considered as the devil in disguise for heart related issues has now been considered with a smile when extracted from plants. Scientists have actually taken a detour on that theory, as it has been related to reducing the risk of cardiovascular issues.

The polyphenolic components in the butter favor the reduction of inflammatory markers that lead to hardening of the arteries otherwise called as atherosclerosis; thereby attributing the butter as an anti-inflammatory agent.

It is also associated with increased lipid metabolism, reducing the occurrences of heart attacks. According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in November 2009, cocoa given to 47 patients with the risk of heart disease showed remarkable cardiovascular benefits.

It evidenced improved signs such as reduction in cholesterol levels, blood pressure, improved blood clotting, insulin sensitivity, coronary artery function, and increased HDL cholesterol levels.

Jillian Sarno Teta, a physician specialized in Neuro Cranial Restructuring along with Keoni Teta, a Naturopathic Physician and Acupuncturist talks about the work of Norman K. Hollenberg and his colleagues of Harvard Medical School on the Kuna tribe of San Blas, off the coast of Panama.

They quote, “It has been found that the risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and stroke – four of the most common killers today, are almost nonexistent in these people. As part of living by their traditional ways, they drink an average of 5 cups of cacao per day, making them the world-record holders of a flavonoid rich diet.”

5. Enhances the natural immunity of the system:

Cocoa butter when replaced with vegetable oils help boost the system through their antioxidant properties. They help boost the immune system by eliminating DNA damage, inflammation, reduce risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, fatigue and cellular mutations.

Cocoa butter also helps boost the body and brain by creating a hormonal balance, thereby acting as a total immune system booster. These effects on the body help relieve stress as well.

Greet and treat your body with the luxurious Cocoa butter retreat in the weekend, for enjoying the never before freshness, suppleness and enhanced wellness in the week ahead.

Blend 5 drops of Geranium oil with 5 drops of Ylang Ylang oil, 5 drops of Lemon oil and 5 drops of Jojoba oil with 2 ounce of Cocoa butter and gently massage your system and leave it aside for an hour.

The rejuvenating, revivifying, detoxifying, moisturizing, nourishing, uplifting and skin and hair-friendly properties of this blend is just more than enough for elevating and recharging your beauty, sensual and emotional quotient every week on and again.

You are what you eat is a popular adage. Always ensure that you take up a healthy and nutritious diet with fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables, pulses and grains along with sufficient water for staying hydrated always.

Soaps, lotions and other skin care products with natural ingredients like Cocoa butter and organic essential oils penetrate through the skin and back up your health and beauty regimen!!!!

Kudos for your choice of pure, organic and natural products for your beloved family.

Storage of Cocoa Butter:

Cocoa butter has the capability of remaining solid even at room temperatures. It also doesn’t get rancid as it contains anti-oxidants and hence can be stored for a period of 2-5 years.

How to Use Cocoa Butter:

It is very simple and a lot similar to using other butters. Jut shave or cut a piece of butter from the cube, and gently massage it into the skin. The temperature from the body and the friction would melt the butter naturally.

Another way to do it would be taking in the desired amount of butter and melting it in a hot tub of water and apply as you bathe. Some have faced issues related to melting the butter, and have found melting the same in a bowl dipped in hot water easier. Unlike other butters, cocoa butter is easily absorbed by the skin leaving the skin hydrated and less oily.

Disclaimer:

This information is meant only for educational purposes. Please do not use it as a means for diagnosing or preventing any health condition. Never use it as a substitute for professional medical advice or prescription drugs. We are not healthcare practitioners and this information is shared only with the notion of bringing Ayurvedic healing wisdom under limelight.

Organic butters and essential oils are meant only for topical application and not for ingestion. Consult your Ayurvedic professional/ healthcare expert ahead of picking the perfect essential oils or organic butters for your prakriti or unique individual constitution along with your state of health.

Thought for the day:

Seeds and nuts are indispensable for cardiovascular health. The protective properties of nuts against coronary heart disease were first recognized in the early 1990s, and a strong body of literature has followed, confirming these original findings.

-Joel Fuhrman.

Suggested Reading:

The Miracle of Nuts, Seeds and Grains: The Scientific Facts about Nutritional Properties and Medicinal Values of Nuts, Seeds and Grains by Dr. Bahram Tadayyon
Theobroma Cacao, Or Cocoa: Its Botany, Cultivation, Chemistry And Diseases by Herbert Wright
Superfoods for Life, Cacao: – Improve Heart Health – Boost Your Brain Power – Decrease Stress Hormones and Chronic Fatigue – 75 Delicious Recipes – by Matthew Ruscigno
The World and Africa: An Inquiry into the Part Which Africa Has Played in World by W. E. B Du Bois
The Chocolate-Plant (Theobroma Cacao) and Its Products by Walter Baker and Company

Reference Links:

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Evening Primrose Oil

Posted on October 19, 2025 by AyurvedicOils

Evening primrose is known to the world as an imperial medication for the Kings and Queens and for which it was called as ‘King’s Cure All’. The fresh flowers, seeds, leaves, roots and its essential oil were used in the treatment of impotence, chronic fatigue syndrome, rheumatism, diabetes, PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) and menopausal problems.

Called in Ayurveda as Medhya – tonic for the brain, Hrdaya – heart tonic, Artavashamana – regularizes menstruation; Evening primrose and its essential oil have been used for its effectiveness in treating artava or the female reproductive tissues, rakta or the blood channels, prana or the respiratory passages and majja or the nervous system.

This noble medication is prescribed in the treatment of PMS, menopausal problems, acne, poor memory, PCOS, loss of libido, asthma, atopic eczema and diabetes.

Purchase Evening Primrose Oil – Retail – 4 oz – CLICK HERE

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Historical uses and importance of Evening Primrose Oil:

Botanically called as Oenothera biennis, Evening primrose is indigenous to America and is a part of the Onagraceae plant family. This plant sings its glory of owning the large cup shaped, bright yellow flowers for which it is called as Sundrop.

Evening primrose is called as night candle or nachtkerz in Germany. These aromatic flowers bloom generally during the dusk or during cloudy days to invite insects for pollination. It is also called as Night willow herb, Fever plant, German rampion and large rampion.

The Native American populace used poultices made with the leaves, roots and seeds of this plant for treating sore throats, wounds, hemorrhoids, bruises and gastrointestinal problems.

The Cherokees treated obesity with leaves infusion and the Ojibura ethnic group treated cuts and bruises by applying the plant paste externally. Certain other American tribes also ate the boiled roots of this plant as their staple food.

Pliny the Elder, Roman Natural Philosopher quotes Evening Primrose as “it is an herbe good as wine to make the heart merrie. It groweth with leaves resembling those of the almond tree and beareth flowers like unto roses, of such virtue is this herbe that if it be given to drink to the wildest beast that is, it will take the same and make it gentle”.

Evening Primrose plant plays a prominent role in the Greek mythology, where Theophrastus, the Greek philosopher named this plant as Oenothera, where ‘oinos’ means wine and ‘thera’ means hunt. The meaning of its name indicates its use potent to influence wine craving and to chase away the effects of overindulgence.

Since the early 1930s, Evening primrose and the essential oil extracted from the seeds of this plant were used for numerous medical conditions including multiple sclerosis, premenstrual syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes, eczema, hair loss and osteoporosis.

Chemical constituents and remedial properties of Evening Primrose oil:

The major therapeutic properties of Evening primrose oil are expectorant, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, antihistamine, anticoagulant, immune-stimulant, bronchodilator, astringent, vulnerary, antispasmodic, vasodilator, sedative, demulcent, hormone regulator and analgesic.

The chemical components contributing to its therapeutic properties are essential fatty acids including omega 6 fatty acids like linoleic acid, gamma-linoleic acid, palmitic acid, oleic acid, stearic acid and pain-relieving components like phenylalanine.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Evening Primrose oil:

Evening primrose oil has refreshing and wholesome benefits to the system and has positive effects on the plasma, nervous, blood and female reproductive tissues. Ayurveda beckons Evening primrose oil as a Rasayana, means rejuvenative oil that augments immune power and ojas or the life essence.

Have you ever watched what had happened when you say that you are taking an Ayurvedic treatment? If your answer is no, then watch your friends or peer’s reaction the next time you utter this statement. They would certainly be in awe! And would definitely think that you are closer to Nature and its ability to heal you securely. That is the magic of Ayurveda and its holistic healing techniques.

Ayurveda might look as a complex terminology but understanding its healing essence is as easy as falling off a log. The word ‘Ayurveda – Ayur (Life) + Veda (Knowledge)’ simply means ‘knowledge of life’.

Knowing how to lead a simple and disciplined living with nutritious diet, easy physical exercises, meditation, fulfilling your duties to your family and to the society, prayers along with a feeling of absolute gratification is all about Ayurveda.

Ayurveda treats the individual and not his or her disease. The nobleness of this ancient remedy is that it attempts to identify and treat the root cause of an illness instead of the symptoms alone.

Diagnosing the root cause of an individual’s illness based on his/ her unique individual constitution or biological forces known as doshas (vata, pitta and kapha), helps Ayurvedic philosophy in treating and preventing a disease and moving progressively towards healthy aging and longevity.

Ayurvedic medications like herbs, essential oils, yoga, meditation, Pranayama (balanced breathing), Panchakarma (Ayurvedic detox techniques), Abhyanga or Ayurvedic massaging, Dinacharya or Ayurvedic routine are prescribed to treat the doshic imbalances, which are often the reason behind any health condition.

Evening primrose oil treats health disorders associated with vata and pitta vitiations with its power to pacify excess of vata and pitta energies. This attribute make this oil effective in treating inflammatory skin conditions, hot flushes and other symptoms of menopause, improper blood circulation, autoimmune disorders, irregular menstruation, nervous disorders, acne, rheumatic problems, asthma, chronic fatigue, dermatitis, Alzheimer’s disease and many other problems.

The major Ayurvedic health benefits of Evening primrose oil are:

1. Boon for women in treating PCOS, endometriosis, PMS, menopause and menstrual mayhems:

Menstruation is indeed a blessing in disguise, as all the best things in the world happen only after pain. Wondering on what am I blabbering? There is no foolishness in my statement. Regular menses is often a symbol of perfect health and absolute hormonal balances in a female.

Menstruation is ‘Mother Nature’s Natural Cleansing Gift’ showered on women. This is because your periods aids in releasing the excess iron content that might otherwise feed the free radicals that contribute to cardiovascular diseases, strokes and cancerous growths. It also discards microbes in the reproductive system.

“Women age more slowly than men because menstruation causes iron loss. Iron feeds free radicals, which increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and Alzheimer’s. Losing iron via blood can lengthen lifespan – which may be one of the reasons women live longer than men”, says Dr. Thomas Perls, Chief longevity expert in U.S.

Hey!!! This topic is about the effectiveness of Evening Primrose oil on menstrual problems, menopausal symptoms, PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) and PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome). And I’m talking about the healthy benefits of menstruation?????

Please wait before you take any calls on my mental wellness. I’m absolutely alright. The trust that ‘a pain or a difficulty is just mending our mayhems’ would contribute significantly in secreting the positive hormones in your system and that is the secret behind the success of the ‘Law of acceptance’, instead of the hazardous negativity arising due to the cursing of a particular condition.

Experts state that PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, dysmennorhea, amenorrhea, menopausal symptoms and other problems associated with the female reproductive system are often due to the hormonal imbalances.

Dr. Booth says, “While most women associate premenstrual syndrome or PMS with their hormones, it’s actually the absence of hormones during this period (a few days before menstruation) that leaves them feeling less than ideal.”

“Women around the world take Evening Primrose Oil to naturally treat PMS symptoms and PCOS because of its rich essential fatty acid content. Getting enough Omega-6 fatty acids, such as linoleic acid and gamma linoleic acid, is shown to support overall hormonal function within the body”, says Dr. Axe

He also adds, “Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) may be one of the most complex and common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. PCOS impacts fertility and has serious health implications as well, especially when left untreated. Some symptoms of PCOS include irregular menstrual cycle, absent period, obesity, acne, balding, excessive menstrual bleeding and ovary cysts.”

Essential fatty acids generate a healthy setting for natural conception, especially in case of PCOS that obstructs conception process. Evening primrose oil aids in augmenting cervical mucus (little or no cervical fluid makes it difficult for the sperm to swim through the cervix for fusing with the egg) and metabolic functions, paving way to successful reproduction rate.

Evening Primrose oil is effective in beating the negative effects of PCOS and supports fertility by facilitating the production and synthesis of prostaglandins, which aids in controlling the functions of hormones (estrogen and progesterone) and direct proper cellular growth.

Massaging your lower abdomen, thighs and lower back with 2 ounce of Evening Primrose oil and 5 drops of Thyme oil can help in balancing the secretion of hormones responsible for pain, fatigue, irregular or blocked menstruation. It can also help in treating mood fluctuations, hot flushes, headache, irritability and other menopausal symptoms.

Research studies also state that Evening Primrose oil has positive effects in dealing with depression, swelling, bloating, pain, irritation and anxiety associated with PMS.

Practicing Pranayama or balanced breathing technique with 5 drops of Evening primrose oil added to vaporizer can help in eliminating toxic remains and negative emotions through exhalation.

Meditation or prayer along with the inhalation of 5 drops of Evening primrose oil in burner or diffuser can help in enhancing cortisol levels secreted by your adrenal glands. This hormone is responsible for the fight-or-flight response in case of stress, depression or threats related to menopause, PCOS and painful menstruation.

Evening primrose oil is also used for inducing labor pain and for supporting in childbirth naturally by augmenting the cervix mucus or cervix fluids.

2. Natural remedy for various skin conditions like eczema, acne and psoriasis:

Acne is a burning problem, especially for all those beauty conscious younger populace out there. Pimples, blackheads and other skin conditions associated with acne are again due to hormonal fluctuations and due to the buildup of toxic remains in the system.

The presence of Omega-6 fatty acids in Evening primrose oil can assist you in controlling the level of hormones responsible for acne and other skin conditions. Dabbing your skin with 5 drops of Evening primrose oil and 5 drops of Jojoba oil can help in enhancing the cellular structure, functions of the sebaceous glands, elasticity of your skin and its potent to repair scars by tissue regeneration.

Psoriasis occurs mainly when the cells reproduce rapidly. This often results in generation of inflamed skin patches inside and pale white scales outside. Psoriasis is again a hormonal problem assisted with following an unhealthy diet and complexities in digesting proteins. The essential fatty acid content in Evening primrose oil enhances metabolic functions and supports balance of hormone levels.

Many studies confirm that Evening primrose oil is effective in treating redness, itching, edema, inflammation and other symptoms of eczema with the presence of GLA or gamma-linoleic acid. You can add 5 drops of Evening primrose oil in steam inhalation, salves, face wash or bathing water to help in the treatment of such skin conditions.

3. Relieves rheumatism, arthritis and osteoporosis:

Rheumatic problems, arthritis and osteoporosis are often linked to the amassing of toxic substances like uric acid, salts, fat deposits in the system; leading to inflammation of joints, soreness, redness, itching, irritation and pain in the hands and legs.

Ayurvedic philosophy states that about 70 percent of toxins are expelled only through slow and steady exhalation. Here comes the significance of practicing Pranayama along with the inhalation of the therapeutic aroma of Evening primrose oil.

While inhaling during Pranayama, the remedial aromatic molecules pass through the nasal passage and reach the limbic system, which is the brain’s control center. It passes appropriate commands to all parts of the body and aids in discarding toxic substances through slow and conscious exhalation.

You can also massage the affected parts with 2 ounce of Evening primrose oil and 5 drops of Wintergreen essential oil for eliminating impediments in the blood, enhancing blood circulation and alleviating pain, morning stiffness and irritation by penetrating into the skin surface deeply.

Certain studies state that Evening primrose oil along with fish oil used by older people has shown significant improvement in bone density and decrease in bone loss.

4. Controls hair loss:

Hair fall or excess loss of hair may end up in balding. It is again a result of poor diet, exposure to excessive pollution, heat and hormonal problems, of course.

Massaging your scalp and hair with 5 ounce of Evening primrose oil along with 5 drops of Rosemary oil and 5 drops of Lemongrass oil can help in strengthening the hair follicles, moisturizing the scalp and reducing itching and scaly flakes on the scalp with the presence of omega-6 fatty acids.

5. Helps quit alcohol addiction:

Gamma-linoleic acid aids in stimulating the brain to secrete prostaglandin E, which can help in bringing more self-control and self-confidence to support withdrawal challenges.

Evening primrose oil has been recommended by Traditional and Alternative medicine practitioners for treating chronic fatigue syndrome, alcoholism, emotional repression, feelings of rejection, negative emotions, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease and certain other psychological problems.

Meditating and practicing Pranayama in the early hours of the day, especially during 4 am to 6 am in the morning along with inhaling the energizing aroma of 5 drops of Evening primrose oil and 2 drops of Ylang Ylang oil can support in instilling self-confidence, self-esteem, self-love and self-control that might help you greatly in quitting alcohol, smoking or other bad habits that might otherwise deteriorate your health or your dreams.

Other health benefits:

Evening primrose oil is also used in the traditional treatment of multiple sclerosis, Raynaud’s syndrome, dyspraxia, schizophrenia, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Sjogren’s syndrome, peptic ulcer, ulcerative colitis and certain other health conditions.

No matter whether you are the President or a peasant, let’s be grateful for all the health that we are being blessed with today rather than crying over the spilt milk tomorrow.

Disclaimer:

This post is meant only for educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose or substitute professional medical advice or prescription medicines. We at Essential Depot are not healthcare professionals and this information is brought to your attention to bring the greatness of Ayurveda, the Mother of all healing sciences under limelight.

Please do not take essential oils internally and it is always recommended only for topical uses. This is mainly due to the fact that 100 percent pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated liquids and may cause allergic reactions, if swallowed or used on the skin directly without dilution.

Always speak with your Ayurvedic expert or healthcare practitioner before choosing the precise essential oils for your unique individual constitution and state of health. Please consult your doctor before using Evening Primrose oil on children, nursing or pregnant women.

Thought for the day:

“Daisies smell-less, yet most quaint, / And sweet thyme true, / Primrose, first born child of Ver, / Merry Spring-time’s harbinger.

-Francis Beaumont

Suggested Reading:

Evening Primrose Oil: Discover the Healing Properties of This Natural Oil
by KATHRYN MARSDEN
Evening Primrose Oil by Judy Graham
Natural Mothering: A Guide to Holistic Therapies for Pregnancy, Birth, and Early Childhood by Nicky Wesson
Evening Primrose Oil (Natural Health Guide) (Alive Natural Health Guides)
by Nancy L. Morse
Women’s Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine: Alternative Therapies and Integrative Medicine for Total Health and Wellness by Tori Hudson

Reference Links:

Balsam Tolu Oil

Posted on October 19, 2025 by AyurvedicOils

From being a promising remedy for skin ailments for the American and Mexican tribal population to a vital element in popular skin care liniments and cough formulas, Balsam Tolu extracts and its essential oil have traveled a long way in the history of natural medicine. With a unique and fresh vanilla-like aroma, Balsam Tolu is used as a natural fragrance in perfumes, creams, soaps, shampoos, hair tonics and diaper rashes creams.

History is always fascinating and Ayurvedic use of Balsam Tolu indeed owns an interesting history behind its scene. It was the Native Indians who identified the medicinal values of Balsam Tolu during their reign of Peru while they were residing in the South and Central American provinces, where Peru was recognized as the birthplace of the Balsam trees in the ancient period.

Being the traditional Indian medicine, Ayurvedic remedies prescribe Balsam Tolu and its essential oil for asthma, migraine, tuberculosis, abscesses, bronchitis, cough, ringworm, wounds, bed sores, scabies, sprains and certain venereal diseases.

Purchase Balsam Tolu Essential Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical uses and significance of Balsam Tolu essential oil and its other extracts: Botanically known as Balsamum tolutanum, Balsam Tolu is the resin extracted from the Myroxylon tree. It is grown primarily in South America and Central America. This tree has a natural resin producing ability and this resinous Balsam is called by other alternate names including Balsam Peru, Peruvian Balsam, Toluifera pereirae, Myroxylon Balsamum, Indian Balsam, Quina and China oil.

The gummy resin tapped from this tall tree is then made into Balsam and the major exporters of Balsam of Tolu are Columbia, El Salvador and Venezuela. The tribal people from Central America and Mexico used the leaves and bark of the Balsam Tolu tree as a folklore remedy for arthritis, wounds, cold, flu and asthma. The name ‘Tolu’ denotes the tribal race ‘Tolues’ from Columbia and it is said that they used this tree as an ancient remedy for various conditions.

The tribal populace who were aboriginal to the rainforest area used various parts of this tree in the treatment of tuberculosis, wounds, headache, rheumatism, asthma, venereal diseases, abscesses, sprains, catarrh, sores and bronchitis.

Balsam Tolu was first documented in the German Pharmacopeia in the 17^th century. The book on “The Essence of Herbs” by Chrissy Brownlyn says “some native Indians used the bark in a powdered form as an underarm deodorant while others found it best for lung and cold ailments”.

It further denotes that the credit of using this plant in pharmaceutical industry goes to the Europeans, especially the Germans who used Balsam of Tolu in treating skin problems like ringworm, scabies, diaper rashes, bedsores, wounds, head lice, dandruff and certain minor ulcerations, after identifying its anti-parasitic, antibacterial and antifungal properties.

The mild and gentle vanilla and cinnamon like aroma of Balsam Tolu oil had supported its use as a flavoring agent in confectionaries, cough syrups, throat lozenges, chewing gums and soft drinks. The mesmerizing floral fragrance of this oil has been prescribed for use in relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga for soothing the mind and calming the senses.

Balsam Peru oil and Balsam tolu oil are extracted from the same tree but by different extraction methods. Even today, Tolu Balsam is used in anti-dandruff shampoos, conditioners, soaps, female hygiene sprays, perfumes, hair tonics, detergents, skin care creams, perfumes, topical salves, ointments, deodorants, surgical dressings, suntan lotions, cosmetics, colognes and certain other medical aids and equipments.

Chemical constituents and remedial properties of Balsam Tolu essential oil:

Among the 25 different chemical components, the major elements contributing to the therapeutic values of Balsam Tolu oil are cinnamic acid, cinnamein, benzyl benzoate, vanillin, nerolidol, cinnamyl cinnamate, benzoic acid, farnesol and other aldehydes. The most important therapeutic attributes of Balsam Tolu oil are antifungal, antiseptic, expectorant, anti-dandruff, anti-stress, analgesic and anti-parasitic.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Balsam Tolu essential oil:

From men in the Stone Age to this Digital Era, celebrate Ayurveda as a boon to mankind for its holistic and regimented approach towards health and harmony.

Ayurveda was gifted to humanity by Acharya Dhanvantari, the ancient God of medicine and is said to have its origin in India, the land of herbs and cultural heritage. This traditional remedy also holds the pride of being a part of Atharvaveda, one among the 4 sacred books of the Indian mythology.

When compared to the modern medicine, where personal care and attention to individuals becomes a question mark, Ayurveda is a divine science that regards and respects human body as a temple where the soul lives in. With this thought of nobility, Ayurveda recommends mankind to keep their mind, body and soul clean, happy and content.

The principles of Ayurveda rely on nature for everything as it strongly trusts that everything on earth is a vital part of nature. The visible proof behind this theory is that all things in nature are made up of five basic elements of nature, namely fire, water, earth, space and air.

Human body is also made up of these five elements, where earth is present in the form of bones and muscles; water represents blood and fluids in the system; air is vital for breathing; space is the soul that dwells in and fire is the essential energy for body temperature, metabolic functions and certain other vital activities of the system.

Ayurveda never goes by the fact that ‘one size fits all’, as it trusts that every human being is a distinctive part of nature composed with a unique individual constitution known as prakriti. It is a combination of three biological energies called as doshas. They are vata, pitta and kapha. Every individual has a predominance of any one of these doshas that acts as a deciding factor in determining the character, personality, attributes and behavioral patterns.

Absolute balance between these doshas as per the law of nature indicates health and doshic imbalances due to climatic conditions, lifestyle changes, irregular food habits and moral vitiations leads to illness.

Ayurvedic healing aims at treating the root cause of an illness instead of its symptoms alone. This aids in curing the disease initially and preventing it in the future as well. Ayurveda prescribes natural remedies that go well with the individual constitution of a person, even if a group of people are affected by the same medical condition.

The prime Ayurvedic remedies are plant essential oils, simple physical exercises, herbs, yoga, prayers, Pranayama (Ayurvedic breathing exercises), meditation, Abhyanga or Ayurvedic massaging, Panchakarma or Ayurvedic detoxification techniques and Ayurvedic routine.

Balsam Tolu essential oil is said to pacify kapha and vata doshas and increase pitta energy. It’s time to look into the Ayurvedic health benefits of Balsam Tolu essential oil. Ayurveda generally prescribes the use of essential oils in the following ways:

1. As an invigorating massage oil:

Abhyanga or the art of massaging with Ayurvedic oils is an important Ayurvedic technique prescribed for healing numerous illnesses since the traditional times. Abhyanga is the traditional method through which the soft tissues of one’s body is maneuvered with the help of fingers, elbows, feet, forearms and other ancient massaging equipments.

Ayurvedic massaging has the potent to pass innumerable benefits to the human body and the key benefits among them are:

Relieving muscular tension.
Normalizing the breathing pattern.
Relaxing the nervous system.
Revitalizing the mind.
Alleviating pain and inflammation.
Improving blood circulation
Augmenting the natural glow and suppleness of skin.

Ayurvedic physicians generally prescribe the appropriate essential oil based on the prakriti and medical condition of a person. Balsam tolu oil is good to treat vata and kapha vitiations and pitta deficit.

Massaging your system or affected parts with 5 drops of Balsam tolu oil, 2 drops of Patchouli oil, 2 drops of Frankincense oil, 2 drops of Lavender oil, 2 drops of Cardamom oil, 2 drops of Petitgrain oil along with 50 ml of Coconut oil can assist in relieving pain, soreness and inflammation associated with rheumatism, alleviating muscular tension, relaxing the nerves, enhancing the skin texture, improving slow digestion, treating constipation, supporting urination through which the toxic remains in the body are eliminated and promoting peaceful sleep and positive feelings.

Skin is the largest organ of the human body and is the quickest transmitter of remedial properties to the bloodstream. Using Balsam Tolu oil in Ayurvedic massaging aids in passing away its healing values like antioxidant (helps in checking aging symptoms and discard the growth of free radicals in the body), antiseptic, cicatrisant and stimulating properties (supports in enhancing the skin health), diuretic, anti-rheumatic, analgesic values (aids in alleviating pain, eliminating toxic remains by promoting frequent urination, reducing inflammation, redness and stiff muscles) and anti-stress properties that help in relaxing the nerves, mind and induce good sleep.

2. In compress or bathing:

Balsam Tolu oil owns an exotic floral fragrance that makes it an excellent bathing oil that can help in leaving you fresh and energized all through the day.

Using 2 drops of Balsam oil along with 1 drop of Cinnamon oil and 1 drop of Ylang Ylang oil in your bathing water or in warm or cold compress is a great way to recharge your nerves, enchant your muscles, lessen muscular tension, alleviate tension headache, back pain and calm your senses and instill a complete feeling of newness.

A warm bath with this blend especially before going to bed is a great way to promote good sleep without any nightmares.

3. Topical application as creams or salves:

Balsam Tolu has been used as a promising remedy for myriad skin problems since the times of the tribal populace. 2 to 3 drops of Balsam Tolu oil along with 1 drop of Turmeric oil mixed with your mild skin care cream or with 2 ml of Jojoba oil can be applied on wounds, eczema, minor skin ulcerations, acne, scabies, rashes, ringworm, bedsores, diaper rashes and skin infections caused due to fungi and parasites.

The herbal blend of 2 drops of Balsam Tolu oil with 2 drops of Rosemary oil, 2 drops of Ylang Ylang oil and 2 drops of Basil oil along with 10 ml of sweet almond oil, applied on the scalp and hair, followed by a thorough rinse with your mild shampoo can assist in keeping away from dandruff, combat head lice, enrich the scalp and promote the growth of healthy hair naturally.

4. In burner, diffuser or vaporizer:

Ayurvedic texts recommend the use of aromatics or aromatherapy as a major means of natural healing and prevention of illnesses. Smell or aroma has an important effect in balancing and stimulating various functions of the body. This action is performed by the odor-bearing molecules that influence the receptors in the nose while breathing. They reach the olfactory bulb of the limbic system in the form of nerve impulses.

The aromatic molecules of Balsam tolu essential oil has expectorant, antifungal, anti-dandruff, antiseptic, anti-stress, anti-parasitic, analgesic, anti-rheumatic and stimulating properties. When inhaled by adding 2 drops of Balsam tolu oil in vaporizer, burner or diffuser, these molecules containing the therapeutic properties of this oil reach the limbic system.

Following this, the hypothalamus and other vital parts of the limbic system convey the corresponding commands to different parts of the body as per the remedial values. Inhaling the soothing aroma of Balsam tolu oil can assist in relaxing the system, lessening pain, reducing fatigue, treating insomnia, and alleviating stress and depression.

Ayurveda states that using Balsam tolu oil in diffuser or vaporizer specifically during meditation, yoga and Pranayama instills a sacred feeling as the mind is said to reach the most subtle and tranquil α (alpha) state during meditation.

5. In vaporizing ointments or steam inhalation:

Inhaling the medicated steam is a proven natural remedy for alleviating cold, cough, sore throat, headache, sinusitis, blocked nose, watery eyes and migraine pain. Steam inhalation works effectively as the steam aids in bringing out the toxic remains in the body through sweat and one can feel the relief instantly after a medicated steam inhalation.

Adding 2 drops of Balsam Tolu oil along with 1 drop of Peppermint oil and 1 drop of Eucalyptus oil in steam inhalation can aid in relieving headache, opening blocked sinus and nasal passages, soothing sore throat, discarding phlegm and mucus deposits and eliminating the microbes present in the system through sweat.

When added to your vaporizing ointment, this blend can also be helpful in treating bronchitis, tuberculosis, chest congestion, nasal congestion, whooping cough and certain other respiratory infections.

Certain test tube studies have revealed that Myroxylon plant has been effective in inhibiting H.pylori, the general ulcer-causing bacteria and Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which is responsible for lung diseases.

Disclaimer:

This article is not meant to treat or diagnose any medical condition or substitute any professional medical advice. It is only for educational purposes and we are not medical practitioners. This heath related information is shared only with the view of spreading the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda, the oldest holistic healing system on earth.

Never use essential oils for internal purposes. Always remember to dilute essential oils before using it for topical uses, as organic and 100 percent pure essential oils are highly concentrated substances and may lead to allergies, if used without diluting them. Discuss with your healthcare expert/Ayurvedic physician before taking the right call on the most suitable essential oils for your health condition and unique individual constitution. Keep away from Balsam Tolu oil, if you are a nursing or pregnant mother, as it is regarded as a sensitizing oil and may have chances of causing allergic reactions.

Thought for the day:

In nature, nothing is perfect and everything is perfect. Trees can be contorted, bent in weird ways, and they’re still beautiful. -Alice Walker

Suggested Reading:

Prescription for Herbal Healing, 2nd Edition: An Easy-to-Use A-to-Z Reference to Hundreds of Common Disorders and Their Herbal Remedies by Phyllis A. Balch CNC, Stacey Bell
10 Ways to Use Balsam Of Peru (Recipe Book) by Sam Enrico
The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Aromatic Oils In Aromatherapy, Herbalism, Health, and Well Being by Julia Lawless
Scabies Natural Home Treatment Solution by Alyson Rodgers
Medical Herbalism: The Science Principles and Practices Of Herbal Medicine by David Hoffmann

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