Myrtle Essential Oil

Posted on October 23, 2025 by AyurvedicOils

Acclaimed as the “Queen of the lemon herbs”, Lemon Myrtle often called as just Myrtle seldom fails to enchant your mind and senses with its refreshing citrus aroma that is more lemony than lemon itself. This is because lemon has only 3-10% citral content while Lemon Myrtle contains about 90-98% citral, contributing to its unique, uplifting lemony fragrance.

Scientifically known as Backhousia citriodora, the essential oil is extracted from the aromatic leaves and twigs of this plant. Celebrated as a natural antiseptic and decongestant, Myrtle herb and its essential oil are used in the treatment of respiratory problems, infectious diseases and neurological disorders in Ayurveda.

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Historical importance of Myrtle:

Native to Australia, Lemon myrtle is one among the few favorite Australian essential oils and it is said that the Indigenous Australians used Lemon myrtle as a remedial and culinary herb. The ancient Egyptians used the leaves of this plant to treat fever and other infections. Myrtle has been mentioned in the Greek mythology as a symbol of love and divine generosity. It was considered sacred to the Greek Goddesses Demeter and Aphrodite.

Myrtle is also said to have been mentioned in the Bible directly for about six times. In Isaiah 41:19 it is said “I will plant in the wilderness the cedar, the shittah tree, and the myrtle, and the oil tree; I will set in the desert the fir tree, and the pine, and the box tree together.” Greek physician Dioscorides recommended Myrtle oil for his patients to treat bladder and lung infections. This herb has also been in use in many traditions for treating respiratory tract ailments and skin disorders.

Therapeutic properties and chemical constituents of Myrtle essential oil:

Lemon myrtle essential oil has analgesic, antiseptic, anticonvulsant, antimicrobial, expectorant, tonic, antifungal, decongestant, sedative, anti-neuralgic, astringent and anti-rheumatic properties. The major chemical components are terpenoid aldehydes like citral, geranial and neral along with the trace constituents linalool, methyl-heptenone, d-isopulegol, myrcene, cyclocitral and citronellal.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Myrtle essential oil:

Ayurveda is a holistic healing principle that trusts on nature and natural remedies for treating human illnesses. This ancient philosophy states that human beings are part of nature and their illness and wellness depend upon their body’s balance with nature. Sickness according to the Ayurvedic texts is a signal indicating that the human body is out of balance with nature.

Ayurvedic beliefs consider disease as an opportunity to repair, revamp and restore the body’s complete health back into balance. Every individual is unique with a specific set of energy elements that make up their individual constitution.

These vital energies are known as doshas, namely pitta, vata and kapha doshas. The predominance of any one of these doshas determines the attributes and behavior of an individual.

Ayurvedic remedies are based upon dosha predominance and Ayurvedic treatments vary from individual to individual even for the same illness. It prescribes holistic remedies in the form of herbs, essential oils, healthy and nutritious diet, yoga, simple physical exercises, meditation along with an Ayurvedic routine for disease prevention and attaining longevity.

Myrtle essential oil is known to pacify kapha and vata doshas and increase pitta.

The Ayurvedic health benefits of Lemon myrtle essential oil are:

1. Proven antibacterial and antimicrobial:

Lemon myrtle essential oil is regarded as a remarkable antimicrobial, antifungal and antibacterial agent with its clean, refreshing and pure citrus aroma. Certain studies have proved that Lemon myrtle oil possess significant antimicrobial power against harmful organisms like Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Aspergillus niger and Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Add 2 drops of this oil along with olive oil to treat infections and diseases due to bacteria, fungi and other micro-organisms. You can apply this blend topically on the affected parts in case of athlete’s foot, ringworm, wounds and other skin problems. This oil heals and protects the wound from being septic as it fights against Staphylococcus bacteria that is responsible for making wounds septic.

1to 2 drops of Lemon myrtle oil added to a cup of warm water can serve as an excellent gargle for fresh breath and for helping with raw throats. Using 2 drops of this oil in your diffuser or in bath can give you a long-lasting feeling of freshness.

2. Trusted respiratory aid:

The decongestant and expectorant properties of Lemon myrtle oil acts effectively in treating chest congestion, flu, cold, bronchitis, asthma and sinus infections. Adding 3 drops of Lemon myrtle oil in steam inhalation can assist in alleviating headache, loosening mucus and phlegm deposits in the lungs and respiratory passages. The therapeutic molecules in this oil aids in controlling the increase of infectious particles that worsen cold and cough.

Certain anecdotal evidences witness that the expected number of cold, cough and sinus problems are lower in households that regularly use Lemon myrtle oil in aroma lamps.

You can also add 2 drops of this oil to your vaporizing ointment and gently massage onto your chest, back, forehead and throat for relieving from congestion and easing difficulties in breathing. Respiratory problems in general spoil your sleep at night, adding 2 drops of Lemon myrtle oil in hot bath especially before bed will help in promoting peaceful sleep at night.

3. Potent antioxidant:

Lemon myrtle essential oil has shown antioxidant properties that help in fighting against free radicals responsible for the growth of malignant tumors and other cancerous growths. This oil has potent antioxidant and antimicrobial effects that help combat food borne human pathogens and free radicals.

4. Excellent skin care remedy:

Several studies conducted by the Charles Sturt University, Australia have proved Lemon myrtle as an effective germicidal and antibacterial oil than tea tree oil in treating skin ailments and other health conditions. This is mainly because of its antiseptic and skin-friendly properties.

A recent study on ‘Antimicrobial activity of Backhousia citriodora (lemon myrtle) methanolic extracts’ states “The low toxicity of the methanolic extract and its inhibitory bioactivity against a panel of bacteria validate Australian Aboriginal usage of B. citriodora as an antiseptic agent and confirms its medicinal potential.”

Lemon Myrtle essential oil is an excellent oil for treating acne and oily skin. Mix 2 drops of Lemon myrtle oil with your skin care lotion and apply it on your acne, cold sores, warts, wounds and insect bites for soothing relief. 2 to 3 drops of this oil blended with olive oil can be used topically on rashes, neuro-dermatitis, tinea, psoriasis, folliculitis, candidiasis and itching.

The essential oil extracted from Australian Lemon myrtle leaves have been proved effective in treating Molluscum contagiosum, a common viral disorder that affect the skin of children and sexually active adults as it is generally seen as a sexually transmitted disease.

A 2004 study on ‘Essential oil of Australian Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) in the treatment of Molluscum contagiosum in children’ where 9 out of 16 children with Molluscum contagiosum treated with 10% of Lemon myrtle essential oil showed 90% reduction in the number of lesions at the end of 21 days of daily topical application.

5. Natural deodorant and air freshener:

The fresh, citrusy aroma of Lemon myrtle oil will never let you down for the entire day if you wear 1 drop of this oil on your wrist or add 2 drops in your refreshing bath in the morning. You can also add 1 drop to your hanky or add few drops to your deodorant to combat body odor.

The antimicrobial properties in this oil absorb microbes in the sweat that causes bad odor. The clean scent of Lemon myrtle oil makes its use inevitable as an air purifier as it kills germs and other micro organisms in the atmosphere, making your home a better place to live in.

6. Gives a lift to your feelings and emotions:

Lemon myrtle essential oil is also fêted for its calming effects that uplift and revivify depressive thoughts and feelings of fear. Gently massaging the soles of your feet with 2 drops of Lemon myrtle oil blended with coconut oil can help you in conceding complete relaxation, alleviate stress, suppress negative feelings, induce better sleep and augment your self-confidence. You can also add 3 to 4 drops of this oil to your diffuser or aroma lamps for giving your mind the natural boost that it requires.

Other health benefits:

Lemon myrtle leaves and its essential oil are also used in brewing tea, flavoring confectionaries, savories, syrups, candies, sauces, desserts, mayonnaises, shampoos, body lotions and mouth fresheners. It is also used as a protective shield in the food industry as Lemon myrtle oil is known to destroy food spoilage yeasts, bacteria and other pathogens.

Disclaimer:

Avoid using essential oils internally. Always remember to dilute essential oils in suitable carrier oils as pure essential oils are highly concentrated liquids and may cause skin irritation or other side effects if used undiluted. Do not use Lemon myrtle oil before going out in sun as it has high phototoxicity effect just like other citrus oils. Always consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before using right essential oils for your health condition and unique constitution.

Thought for the day:

When nature has work to be done, she creates a genius to do it. –Ralph Waldo Emerson

Suggested Reading:

Medicinal Plants in Australia: Volume 2: Gums, Resins, Tannin and Essential Oils by Cheryll Williams
The Aromatherapy Encyclopedia: A Concise Guide to over 385 Plant Oils by Carol Schiller, David Schiller
The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy: Over 600 Natural, Non-Toxic and Fragrant Recipes to Create Health – Beauty – a Safe Home Environment by Valerie Ann Worwood
Only the Essentials: A Concise Aromatherapy Reference Guide by Michele A. Williams

Reference Links:

Thyme Essential Oil

Posted on October 19, 2025 by AyurvedicOils

Fall in love with Thyme essential oil if you love Mother Nature and trust its innate wisdom of healing. Thyme is such a galvanizing herb and has its use etched in the history of various parts of the universe. When I started with this post, I was just hit with an important term that Thyme is often referred to and that is ‘Mother of Thyme’.This phrase brings out the significance of Thyme in both the conventional and contemporary medicinal practices, chiefly for addressing gynecological problems. Greeks named this plant as thyme meaning ‘to fumigate’, mainly because of its invigorating aroma and it is also said that this name is extracted from the Greek word ‘thumus’ denoting courage.

Apart from its use as a culinary herb, thyme and its essential oil has been in use for more than thousands of years, where the ancient Ayurvedic philosophers explored every essence of this powerful herb in treating an extensive range of illnesses naturally.

Saints, warriors and scholars of the prehistoric period valued Thyme for its power to grant physical endurance and valor along with emotional and spiritual insight to pursue their life’s vision perfectly.

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Historical Uses of Thyme and its essential oil:

History has a cluster of pages talking about the curative powers of Thyme. Almost all the continents of this world from Antarctica to Australia have used thyme for its impressive medicinal values.

Ayurveda, the science of life suggested the use of thyme for its expectorant, astringent, anti-microbial, antiseptic, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties. The ancient texts of Ayurveda suggests thyme for treating respiratory problems, headaches, halitosis, spasms, colic, dental disorders, gastrointestinal problems and few others.

Ebers Papyrus, the oldest Egyptian medical text which dates back to 1550 BC has recorded the healing values of thyme. The ancient Greeks offered thyme as a sacred herb to Adephaghia, the Greek Goddess of food and good eating.

Thyme was also burnt in Greek temples for sanctifying and purifying the environment. According to Greeks, thyme signified ‘graceful elegance’ and represented bravery, heroism and energy.

Bible honors thyme as the lining for the manger, which was the bed of Jesus Christ at the time of birth. European Pharmacopeia recommends the use of this herb for healing upper respiratory congestion and coughs.

Africans use thyme for its tranquilizing properties. It was in use in traditional Jamaican medicinal system to induce labor and support child birth, attributed to the emmenagogue properties of thyme. In southern France, thyme was honored as a sign of extreme Republicanism.

Nicholas Culpeper, the renowned English Botanist recommended thyme for treating musculoskeletal problems, warts, ophthalmic problems and certain other illnesses. He said Thyme is “a noble strengthener of the lungs, as notable a one as grows, nor is there a better remedy growing for whooping cough.

It purges the body of phlegm and is an excellent remedy for shortness of breath. It is so harmless you need not fear the use of it. An ointment made of it takes away hot swellings and warts, helps the sciatica and dullness of sight and takes away any pains and hardness of the spleen: it is excellent for those that are troubled with the gout and the herb taken anyway inwardly is of great comfort to the stomach.”

The primeval Sumerians, Assyrians and Babylonians have used thyme before 5,000 years and the traditional food known as Zaatar in the Middle East countries contains thyme and is popular for its curative values.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Thyme essential oil:

Ayurveda, the oldest of all healing sciences on earth trusts on natural herbs including aromatic plants for healing human health conditions. It is known for its use of aromatics in treating numerous illnesses ranging from insomnia to bipolar disorders.

This healing power by using aroma is connected to the limbic system, which is known as the ‘center of control’ of the human brain. Another celebrated Ayurvedic therapy of healing is Abhyanga, the art of Ayurvedic massaging.

Ayurvedic texts strongly recommend massaging with therapeutic essential oils for relaxing the mind, strengthening the immune system and helping the system to strike perfect balance with nature.

Essential oils are extracted from plants. They are pure, free of chemicals, highly concentrated and contain the real essence of the plants from which they are extracted. Thyme essential oil is extracted from thyme herb, botanically known as Thymus vulgaris. The most significant constituent of thyme essential oil contributing to its healing properties is thymol.

The major Ayurvedic health benefits of thyme essential oil are:

1. Time-honored emmenagogue:

The oil of thyme is regarded as a natural remedy for handling womanly problems in a gentle manner. Historical references report the use of thyme for inducing labor, encouraging easy child birth, irregular periods, obstructed menstruation, treating pains, depression, fatigue and nausea associated with menstruation. This is mainly because thyme oil stimulates the production of estrogen hormones in women, which is responsible for reproductive health.

Massaging a blend of 3 drops of thyme oil with 2 teaspoons of sesame oil gently on the abdominal area can grant relief from severe pain and foster blocked menstruation. 2 drops of Thyme oil can also be added to your bathing water for giving a refreshing start to the day and for alleviating fatigue. It can also be used in your diffuser for soothing your senses especially during the night time for a peaceful and relaxed sleep.

2. Overcomes oral problems:

Ayurvedic Vaidyas strongly recommended thyme oil for treating oral problems like bad breath or halitosis, gingivitis, plaque and tooth decay. Thyme essential oil is known as a powerful germ-killer with its antibacterial and antiseptic properties. This is the main reason for the use of thyme oil in many popular mouthwashes like Listerine and certain other oral cleansers.

Thymol, the active constituent in thyme oil along with chlorhexidine is used as a dental varnish for treating and preventing tooth decay. Thyme oil is an important ingredient in popular toothpaste and liniment brands in the market for these special reasons. Adding 1 drop of thyme oil to a cup of warm water can serve as an effective mouth gargle in the morning for treating oral problems.

3. Absolutely skin-friendly:

The presence of caryophyllene and camphene components in Thyme essential oil contributes to its antiseptic and antibacterial properties. It helps in protecting the skin from harmful bacterial and fungal infections while effectively aiding in healing burns, wounds, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, rashes, cuts and sores. Thyme essential oil helps in keeping the skin free from marks, wrinkles and certain other symptoms of aging.

Scars and marks after surgeries, accidents, acne, chicken pox, measles and even stretch marks fade on eventual cosmetic application of thyme oil on the affected areas after blending it with mild carrier oils like almond oil. You can add few drops of thyme oil to your regular face wash for better results as thyme oil has excellent skin-cleansing properties.

4. Guards the respiratory system:

Thyme essential oil protects the respiratory system from various infections and is a trusted Ayurvedic remedy for treating prolonged coughs and cold. The essential oil of thyme acts as a powerful cough suppressant by checking the coughing spasms.

The presence of thymol strengthens the immune system and makes the body defensive against respiratory infections. The warming nature of this oil helps in clearing congestion and breaking up mucous and phlegm. 2 drops of thyme oil added to hot water for steam inhalation can open blocked nasal passages and soothe the respiratory system.

5. Natural stimulant:

It stimulates the functions of the liver and digestive system. Thyme essential oil acts as a tonic for the liver, nervous system, circulatory system and muscular system. This oil assists in treating dyspepsia, gastric formation, heartburn, stomach upset, cramps, nausea, headache and lack of sleep associated with digestive disorders. Intestinal worms like tapeworms, hook worms and round worms can also be discarded with the vermifuge properties of thyme oil.

6. Alleviates pain and inflammation:

Just like Eucalyptus oil, thyme oil is also an effective pain relieving oil by suppressing the inflammatory COX-2 enzyme. A 2012 study on ‘Effects of Thymol and Carvacrol, Constituents of Thymus vulgaris L. Essential Oil, on the Inflammatory Response’ proved that the anti-inflammatory property of thyme oil is attributed to the rich presence of monoterpene phenols like thymol and carvacrol constituents present in this oil. This makes thyme as an effective pain relieving massage oil in alleviating rheumatic pains, muscular aches, bruises, nerve stimulation, migraine headaches and skin inflammation.

7. Supports the entire system:

Thyme essential oil supports the entire body from head to toe and it is proven effective in treating hair loss, head lice, swelling, throat pain, sciatica, low blood pressure, convulsions, colic, bed-wetting, gout, diarrhea, athlete’s foot etc. This oil is also said to have antioxidant and antiviral properties.

It acts as an effective diuretic and helps in alleviating the toxins from the body through urine. Thyme essential oil is extremely beneficial for the heart as it fortifies the cardiac muscles and enhances blood circulation. Inhaling the aroma of thyme essential oil stimulates the mind, improves concentration and uplifts the spirit.

And now, you would have realized why I wanted you to fall in love with Thyme essential oil. Let me start. Thyme…. I love you.

Disclaimer: Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and children below 2 years should not use this oil. Do not ingest essential oils as they are highly concentrated and do not apply them directly to your skin unless it is recommended by your Ayurvedic Practitioner.

Thought for the day:

Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience. –Ralph Waldo Emerson

Suggested Reading:

The Healing Intelligence of Essential Oils: The Science of Advanced Aromatherapy by Kurt Schnaubelt
Ayurveda & Aromatherapy: The Earth Essential Guide to Ancient Wisdom and Modern Healing by Dr. Light Miller, Dr. Bryan Miller
The Practice of Aromatherapy by Dr. Jean Valnet

Reference Links:

Agarwood Oil

Posted on October 16, 2025 by AyurvedicOils

‘Wood of God’ and Adam’s only permitted tree to be taken from the Garden of Eden is none other than Agarwood, where the resinous heartwood of this tree of epic charisma has been used across the globe for extracting its therapeutic essential oil and mesmerizing fragrance ranges.

‘Hitting the heaven’ is the kind of feeling one can get at breathing in the aromatic aura of Agarwood oil. Held high as the most captivating fragrance for progressing towards a divine journey, Agarwood and its sacred fragrance has been a part of various earliest cultures of the globe for attaining clarity of mind, enlightenment and inner peace, essential for realizing and reaching Divinity through meditation and other sacred rituals.

Called as Aguruh kul in Ayurveda with the Sanskrit meanings like Vruksha, Shreshta, Rajarha and Vishvaroopakam, Agarwood is popularly known as Agar has been an Ayurvedic medication for neuro-muscular conditions, pleurisy, anemia, halitosis, impotence, blood impurities, urinary infections, indigestion, skin problems, heart problems, pain and bed wetting.

Purchase Agarwood Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical uses and importance of Agarwood oil:

Agar is a limb of the Thymelaeaceae plant family and the most popular among the 15 species of this plant variety are Aquilaria agallocha, Aquilaria sinensis, Aquillaria crassna and Aquilaria malaccensis, based upon its origin and growth.

Popularly beckoned as Oudh, Oud, Gaharu, Agar, Eaglewood, Aloeswood and Agarwood, this tree has been claimed indigenous to various parts of the world, including India, Malaysia, Southern China, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines and Cambodia.

The source of this tranquilizing fragrance of this oil is from its heartwood, which gets developed very slowly, may be hundreds of years after being infected by a parasite fungus, namely phialophora parasitica. Owing to this fungus attack, Agarwood tree starts producing an aromatic resin deep within the heartwood, naturally.

Agarwood has its mention in numerous rich Vedic and historic texts like Sahih Muslim, Charaka Samhita, Torah, Bhagavat Gita, Sushruta Samhita, Islamic scriptures and Gospel. Agarwood has been the favorite fragrance of Lord Krishna, held as the God of protection and the hero of the ancient Sanskrit text Bhagavat Gita.

Buddha has stated that the fragrance of burning Agarwood is the authentic “scent of Nirvana” (the state of attaining Divinity). The string of beads counting 108 in Buddhism is made up of Agarwood. Bible also mentions that Jesus Christ have been scented with Aloes (Oud).

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) performed the cultural tradition of fumigating with Agarwood and is followed even today among the Orthodox Islamic community.

He also states that Agarwood is a part of the Paradise and his quote, “The first group of people who will enter Paradise, will be glittering like the full moon and those who will follow them, will glitter like the most brilliant star in the sky. The aloes-wood will be used in their centers” proves it commendably.

It is also said that the valiant Samurai warriors used Agarwood smoke to perfume their armour as a lucky charm before going to the battle. The celebrated king of France, King Louis XIV had his garments washed in a blend of water boiled with Agarwood and rose for lasting fragrance and energy.

Agarwood has been a part of various Alternative medicinal practices including Ayurveda, Unani, the Traditional Chinese Medicine, Sufi medicines, Tibetan, Arabic and certain other East Asian medicinal systems as a medication for psychological conditions, cirrhosis of the liver and for various skin problems.

Chemical constituents and remedial properties of Agarwood oil:

The most prominent chemical constituents of Agarwood oil are agarol (sesquiterpene), aquillochin (couinarinolignan), α- agarofurans, β- agarofurans, agarospirol, jinkohol, jinkohol-eremol, selinene, iso- dihydroagarofuran, kusenol, and dihydroagarofuran.

The therapeutic properties accounting to its enormous healing benefits are rejuvenative, tonic, anti-rheumatic, aphrodisiac, diuretic, anti-stress, antimicrobial, carminative, anti-convulsant, anti-asthmatic, anti-cancer, relaxant, analgesic, transformative, digestive, antioxidant, psychoactive, detoxifying, diaphoretic, anti-depressant.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Agarwood oil:

Anyone in today’s contemporary and perfunctory world would simply opt for Ayurveda, if given a chance to relax, revitalize and charge up the entire system. This is no wonder because the world knows that Ayurveda is the oldest of all the healing methodologies in the Universe and its existence dates back to more than 5000 years.

Having its roots tied up with the ancient Indian mythology, Ayurveda is talked about in 114 verses in Atharvaveda, one among the four prized Vedas or Sacred books of the Hindu tradition.

Ayurveda is not just a system of healing with natural medicines and Ayurvedic essential oils, instead it’s a whole pack of holistic healing comprising of healthy lifestyle, natural and nutritious food, Karma or the dutiful life practices, maintaining absolute harmony with Nature, Dharma or the disciplined living, detoxification or the eliminating of toxic remains in the system, treating the root cause of the illnesses, unique healing practices like Abhyanga and Panchakarma, unity with the Divine force through prayer or meditation and staying fit by taking up yoga, Pranayama or the Ayurvedic breathing technique and simple physical exercises.

Ayurveda regards that every person is a unique individual with unique physical, psychological, social and emotional set up. As no two persons are the same, the treatment and medications should not be the same for two persons affected even with the disease.

Ayurvedic philosophy declares that every person is made up of the five elements of nature, namely fire, air, water, sky and earth. The combination of these five fundamental elements combine together to form the biological energies called as doshas. They are vata (air and space), pitta (fire and water) and kapha (water and earth).

Every person has a predominance of any one these doshic energies that determine his character, traits and personality. Balance between these doshas indicate that the human body is in harmony with Nature and imbalance of doshas result in diseases and are direct pointer that the system is out of balance with Nature.

Ayurveda studies this individual constitution of a person along with his medical history and traces out the root cause of a disease. It helps an individual to renew his balance with nature and prevent such illnesses in the future also.

Ayurvedic essential oils are the life essence of plants and are used in Ayurvedic medication for thousands of years in the treatment methods like Ayurvedic massaging or Abhyanga, Ayurvedic detoxification or Panchakarma, Pranayama or Yogic breathing, Aromatherapy and in meditation and prayers.

Agarwood has been an important part of the Ayurvedic regimen and has been talked about in Ayurvedic encyclopedia, Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita.

Bhagavata Purana quotes, “The men and women of the city, arrayed in spotless raiment and anointed with fragrant sandalwood paste, wore precious necklaces, flower garlands and jeweled ornaments, and their opulent homes were filled with the aroma of aguru”, where Aguru is nothing but Agarwood. This proves the use of this spiritual fragrance even during the primordial times.

Agarwood essential oil is said to pacify vata and kapha doshas in excess and enhance pitta energy.

The most significant Ayurvedic health benefits of Agarwood oil are:

Apart from these promising health benefits, Agarwood and its essential oil has been a vital part of the perfume industry since ages together. It’s time to learn the medicinal uses in detail.

1. Illuminates the mind and fortifies the power of thinking:

Mind is a faculty of thought, consciousness, intellect and one’s ability to think, sense and reason. Your thoughts are the first move to your actions. The power of thinking would always be healthy and positive only when you have a clear mind sans negative ideas.

Known as the inner organ of awareness or consciousness in Ayurveda, Mind is often termed as electricity generated from the power station called as soul, which is the only reserve of intelligence and it glows with its own light. When you have clarity of mind, your mind never wanders around, it starts focusing only on the right with the kind of consciousness it has acquired from the soul.

The heartening fragrance of Agarwood oil has the power to fuel the mind with mental clarity and drives in inner consciousness. Inhaling 2 drops of Agarwood oil by adding it to diffuser can assist in driving away negative energies, alleviating anxiety, enhancing alertness, increasing the sense of strength, bringing in tranquility, augmenting cerebral functioning and strengthening the nervous system.

This can also support in enhancing your power of creative thinking. It is mainly because creative thoughts strike the mind when it is absolutely free from worries, anxiousness and negative feelings. This way Agarwood can help everyone in your family to think better, may be in performing your duties better in the office, to cook innovative food varieties, to learn and understand better and what not.

2. Elevates the emotional quotient:

Agarwood is often regarded as a glorious tree in the Traditional Chinese Medicine for its excellent medicinal and spiritual benefits. The Chinese usually call the captivating fragrance of Agarwood oil as “a sweet, deep but balanced fragrance”.

Agarwood oil is often regarded as a unique oil of rescue, especially from emotional trauma. It has been also said that the therapeutic properties of this oil is highly powerful in harmonizing the electrical frequencies of the brain.

Agarwood oil has been used by the Tibetan Monks for increasing the inner energy that could pass on absolute tranquility to the mind and the soul. It is for this reason; Agarwood oil has been a part of numerous traditions during spiritual ceremonies and esoteric gatherings. In Buddhism, Agarwood is used for clearing away lack of ignorance.

The famous Chinese tradition Feng Shui, which is an art of controlling the flow of energy in a particular spot, has associated Agarwood in helping with it as the sacred fragrance of Agarwood is said to penetrate through the senses and enrich the spirit.

3. Paves way for spiritual enlightenment:

Meditation, prayers and certain other divine gatherings aim at the realization and oneness with Divinity. This is the most complex chore, as it requires absolute concentration, mental stability and clarity of the mind to attain the heavenly powers.

The sacred fragrance of Agarwood and its oil is said to have psychoactive properties that aid in progressing towards a sanctifying spiritual journey by instilling deep inner peace, consciousness, emotional constancy, positive energy, increased awareness and enhanced psychological functioning.

Certain ancient texts quote that the incense of Agarwood transmits the prayer to the Almighty. Adding 2 drops of Agarwood oil with 1 drop of Sandalwood oil in diffuser or vaporizer during prayer, meditation, Pranayama or other sacred gatherings can help in feeling the connection with the transcendent, alleviating detrimental or negative thoughts that spoil concentration and supporting the insight of experiencing divinity from within.

Agarwood and its enthralling aroma has been said to stimulate Qi, which is the ‘vital force’ or ‘life energy’ and is the fundamental principle in the Traditional Chinese Medicine and Martial Arts. Ayurvedic medication recommends Agarwood oil for augmenting mental clarity, opening Agna or the third eye and all of the chakras in the upper part of the body, which is often associated with divinity.

4. Alleviates pain including rheumatic and arthritic conditions:

Agarwood oil is an excellent kapha suppressant, which eliminates surplus water deposits and toxic remains in the body through sweat or urine. With its analgesic, anti-rheumatic and anti-inflammatory attributes, this oil supports in relieving pain quickly and reducing inflammation associated with rheumatism and arthritis.

Massaging the affected parts, especially the joints with 2 drops of Agarwood oil, 2 drops of Clove oil with 2 ml of coconut oil can help in clearing blood impurities, flushing out toxins, salt and uric acid in the system by promoting frequent urination, reducing pain and soreness and enhancing blood circulation. You can also use 2 drops of Agarwood oil in hot or cold compress for soothing muscular pain.

5. Spices up your sexual verve:

The oil of Agarwood often becomes an interesting remedy for reproductive problems with its stimulating aroma and spirited aphrodisiac properties. Since the primeval period, Agarwood and its enticing oil has been used for people undergoing sexual problems.

As it works as an excellent relaxant that promotes peaceful sleep, treats fatigue, alleviates stress and boosts mental health, Agarwood is often used as an “All in one remedy” for improving vigor and vitality.

Massaging your body with 5 drops of Agarwood oil, 5 drops of Ashwagandha oil, 2 drops of Sandalwood oil and 2 drops of Lavender oil with 10 ml of Olive oil can help in influencing good sleep, soothing the system, enhancing the libido, treating premature ejaculation, increasing sperm count and for curing erectile dysfunction. You can also add 2 drops of Agarwood oil in warm bathing water before going to bed.

6. Supports the digestive functions:

The digestive, carminative, anti-flatulent and stomachic properties of Agarwood oil supports in expelling gas in the intestines and stomach and it also prevents the digestive system from building up of gas.

Adding 1 drop of Agarwood oil along with 1 drop of Peppermint oil in a cup of warm water and gargling with this medicated solution can help in alleviating bad breath, tastelessness and nausea. Massaging your tummy with 3 drops of Agarwood oil along with 2 ml of sesame oil can help in supporting the secretion of gastric juices and digestive acids that treat indigestion, bloating, flatulence and intestinal infections.

7. Invigorates your skin health:

Agarwood oil is an excellent natural remedy for nourishing the skin from within. With its ability to scavenge free radicals in the system, Agarwood oil fight against the symptoms of aging like wrinkles, fine lines and marks.

Ayurveda beckons Agarwood as Kushtanut, means remedy for skin diseases. It is called as Dushta Vranashodhana for its power to clean wounds, Krumihara for treating infected wounds, and Kushtahara for relieving itching and soreness of skin. It is also known as Tvachya for it is extremely useful in detoxification of skin.

1 drop of Agarwood oil and 1 drop of Lemon oil added to your soap-free cleanser can help in clearing away marks, improving skin complexion, encouraging blemish-free glow and granting a younger and healthy looking skin. It is for these reason Agarwood has been a part of various celebrated skin care products including skin lightening creams and soaps.

Other health benefits:

Agarwood oil is also used in the treatment cirrhosis, epilepsy, hepatitis, fever, depression, gastric cancer, abdominal and lung tumors and nervous system disorders.

Disclaimer:

This information is only for the use of education and is not meant for replacing any prescribed medicines or professional medical advice or for diagnosing any kind of health conditions. We are not healthcare professionals and we take up a collective interest to share and spread the awareness of Ayurveda, the holistic and oldest of all remedial practices in the world for which it is rightly called as the Mother of all healing sciences on earth.

Never ingest essential oils and do remember to dilute them in appropriate carrier oils like Jojoba oil. This is due to the fact that organic and unadulterated essential oils are highly concentrated liquids and direct application of essential oils on the skin may lead to allergic reactions. Due care should be taken if you are a nursing mother or carrying. Keep out of reach of children.

Speak with your healthcare practitioner or Ayurvedic expert before taking your call on the suitable essential oils for your state of health and unique individual constitution.

Thought for the day:

Beyond a pleasant smell, a drop of Agarwood essence will softly invade your lungs, your mind, your body and spirit” – Trygve Harris, aromatherapy expert.

Suggested Reading:

Natural Beauty: Radiant Skin Care Secrets & Homemade Beauty Recipes From the World’s Most Unforgettable Women (Essential Oil for Beginners Series) by Elizabeth Fellow
The Encyclopedia of Aphrodisiacs: Psychoactive Substances for Use in Sexual Practices by Christian Rätsch, Claudia Müller-Ebeling
Fragrance & Wellbeing: Plant Aromatics and Their Influence on the Psyche by Jennifer Peace Rhind
Healing Your Life: Lessons on the Path of Ayurveda by Marc Halpern
The Incense Bible: Plant Scents That Transcend World Culture, Medicine, and Spirituality by Dennis J Mckenna, Kerry Hughes

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