Gingergrass Oil

Posted on February 2, 2025 by AyurvedicOils

Ensconced with enormously sensual, spicy, warming, lemony and peppery aroma, Gingergrass essential oil is extracted from the aromatic and herbaceous grasses of Cymbopogon martini var. sofia, the most loved sibling of Palmarosa known as Cymbopogon martini var. motia.

It is also beckoned as the most popular botanical cousin of Lemongrass. Gingergrass oil has excellent properties for nurturing healthy skin and it is for this reason, it has been used for centuries together in making Indian soaps for treating acne, wrinkles, scars and marks.

Indigenous to India, Gingergrass and its extracts, including its essential oil is a time-honored ingredient of numerous Ayurvedic formulations prescribed for the treatment of inflammation, sinusitis, allergies, joint pain, muscular aches, sore throat, depression, loss of libido, dermatitis, acne, cough, common cold and certain other health disorders. Gingergrass is called as Sofiya in Sanskrit.

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Historical uses and importance of Gingergrass:

Gingergrass (Cymbopogon martini var. sofia) is a thickly growing perennial grass variety that reaches up to a height of 2m and is found growing in the wild, especially in lower altitudes. Gingergrass essential oil is steam distilled from its aromatic grass in India since the 18^th century. The herbaceous, sharp and woody aroma have paved ways for its use in making perfumes, colognes, soaps, herbal medicines, ointments, toiletries and skin care ranges.

A multilingual multi-script plant name database sorting Cymbopogon names quotes, “Two kinds of oil can be obtained from Cymbopogon martinii; Palmarosa oil from the variety known as “Motia” and Ginger-grass oil from “Sofia.” It has also been mentioned that these two types are differentiable both aromatically and morphologically, where Motia variety is diploid and Sofia is tetraploid.

Therapeutic properties and chemical constituents of Gingergrass essential oil:

The major therapeutic properties of Gingergrass essential oil are analgesic, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, uplifting, bactericidal, anti-depressant, revitalizing, decongestant, anthelmintic and insect repellant.

The chemical constituents contributing to its healing powers are geraniol, trans-p-menthene-8-diol-1,2, cis- and trans-dihydrocarvone, cis- and trans-carveol, menthadienols limonene oxide and piperitenone. The grassy notes of this oil are due to the presence of Perilla alcohol, meaning dihydro cuminyl alcohol.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Gingergrass Essential Oil:

Ayurveda is a holistic healing methodology that considers and treats an individual as a whole person instead of treating any specific diseases or parts of the body. Legendary Ayurvedic Physician Mr. Vasant Lad rightly quotes in the Textbook of Ayurveda as, “Ayurveda treats the whole person, not just the organ or system involved.”

This ancient healing system means ‘knowledge of life’ and aims at treating an illness after analyzing the root cause lying behind so as to help humanity to prevent such illnesses in the future. Health in Ayurveda means the wellness of the mind, body and spirit as it trusts that a healthy mind can survive only in a healthy body supported by a hale and hearty spirit.

The aim of Ayurvedic treatment according to National Institutes of Health is, “The aim of Ayurvedic medicine is to integrate and balance the body, mind, and spirit. This is believed to help prevent illness and promote wellness.”

The modesty of Ayurveda vests in its way of treating every individual in a unique manner even if it is for the same illness. According to Ayurvedic texts, every human on earth is unique with a distinct individual constitution and similarly the way of treating human beings should also be unique according to his constitution, which is made up of three biological energies known as doshas. Everything on earth (including human beings) is made up of five vital elements namely air, water, fire, earth and space. Doshas are nothing but a combination of these vital elements.

Vata is a combination of space and air and governs the functions of the respiratory system and nervous system; Pitta represents fire and water and takes care of digestion, absorption and cognitive functions; Kapha stands for water and earth and is responsible for structure, movement of fluids in the body and sustenance.

Every individual has a predominance of any one of these doshas that determine their personality and traits. Balance between these doshas denotes health and imbalance due to change in lifestyle and food habits cause sickness.

Ayurvedic remedies like essential oils, herbs, yoga, physical exercises, prayers, meditation and Ayurvedic routine are prescribed according to the individual constitution in such a way to treat doshic imbalances. Gingergrass essential oil is said to lessen vata, pitta and kapha energy.

Let’s have a look at the Ayurvedic health benefits of Gingergrass essential oil:

1. Pacifies the hassled mind:

Gingergrass essential oil has a sensual and warming aroma that calms the stressed, tensed and confused mind. Most often used for alleviating anxiety and depression, the citrusy, peppery and spicy fragrance of this oil assists in revitalizing your nerves and uplifting your senses. Massaging your body with 5 drops of Gingergrass oil mixed with 2.5 ml of almond oil can be of great assistance in lessening fatigue, anxiety, stress and depression.

The greatest news is that Gingergrass oil can implant complete freshness, happiness and a clean feeling even on a damp and drenched rainy day. All you need to do is to add 2 drops of Gingergrass essential oil to your room freshener and spray it to recharge your mood with absolute newness on a dull soggy day.

2. Relieves nasal and chest congestion:

Cold, cough, allergies and sinus congestion can rule your routine tasks, as you might find it difficult to concentrate on your work with such respiratory problems. The best thing that you need to do is to use a safe decongestant and expectorant that assists in discharging the mucous and phlegm deposits that lead to cough, cold, congestion and breathing difficulties. Increased kapha dosha is responsible for respiratory problems, stagnation of water, phlegm and mucous deposits.

Gingergrass essential oil is said to lessen kapha dosha and is a good expectorant, decongestant, bactericidal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. Adding 2 drops of this oil in steam inhalation can help you in relieving from blocked nasal passages, sinus congestion, headache and congestion.

You can also add 1 drop of Gingergrass oil to your vapor rub and gently massage your chest, throat and back to get rid of throat allergies, dry cough, stuffy nose and watery eyes. With its antiseptic and bactericidal properties, Gingergrass essential oil aids in arresting the growth of microbes causing respiratory infections.

3. Alleviates muscular and joint pain:

Most of us complain about back pain, headache, muscular pain or joint pain at the end of the day, after struggling for a full day with our official and household chores. Human body is the most delicate and sensitive set up. Often, we forget to give the priority that our body requires and our mind looks up to.

Mix 5 drops of Gingergrass essential oil with 2.5 ml of olive oil and gently massage your body and leave it for 15 minutes, followed by a warm bath (add 2 drops of Gingergrass oil in bathing water as well) before going to bed. Trust me; this will create a great difference in the quality of your sleep and the kind of relaxation your body can get after a tiring day. This massage and warming bath helps in promoting blood circulation, eliminating toxic substances in the body causing pain and inflammation and supporting muscular relaxation.

4. Repels mosquitoes and other insects:

Gingergrass and its extracts have been used as a powerful insect repellent and as the most effective natural aid against mosquitoes since the ancient times. A 1994 study was conducted on the ‘Repellent action of Cymbopogon martinii martinii Stapf var. sofia oil against mosquitoes’ by the Malaria Research Center, India to assess the repellent action of Gingergrass essential oil against mosquitoes under field conditions.

The results of this study depicted that Gingergrass oil has strong repellent power and it granted complete protection for 12 hours, against Anopheles culicifacies mosquitoes, which is the primary vector of malaria in India. It also said that this oil showed about 96.3% protection for 12 hours against a pest mosquito type. The best way to keep away from mosquitoes and other insects like bugs is to add 2 drops of Gingergrass oil to your diffuser or burner.

Another study on ‘Evaluation of repellent action of Cymbopogan martinii martinii Stapf var sofia oil against Anopheles sundaicus in tribal villages of Car Nicobar Island, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, India.’ Concluded that “Cymbopogan martinii martinii Stapf var sofia oil is an indigenous product, its application is safe and can be widely used for protection from malaria.”

5. Nurtures skin health:

How can something with the touch citrus be less benefiting to the skin? Absolutely not, Gingergrass essential oil has a lemony aroma and the citrusy touch in its therapeutic properties has excellent benefits for the skin. With its antiseptic, anti-fungal and bactericidal properties, Gingergrass oil is effective in treating pimples, black heads, boils, cuts, dermatitis, burns, ringworm, athlete’s foot, wounds and other skin infections.

Just like Palmarosa essential oil, Gingergrass oil is also said to be effective in treating marks, scars and wrinkles. Mix 2 drops of Gingergrass oil in your skin care cream or lotion and apply it the affected parts for effective results.

You can also add 2 drops of Gingergrass oil with 1 ml of olive oil and massage it gently on your skin and leave it over for 30 minutes, followed by a refreshing bath can help in improving your skin tone, reducing marks and scars, augmenting the circulation and regenerating the formation of new skin cells.

Other health benefits:

Gingergrass essential oil also has aphrodisiac properties that assist in treating loss of libido, impotence and loss of sexual interest along with clearing cluttered thoughts in the mind that weaken the intimacy with your partner. This oil is also used in making perfumes, soaps, colognes and other skin care products.

Disclaimer:

This article is only for the purpose of education and is not meant to diagnose or substitute any prescribed medication or professional medical advice. Always use essential oils in a diluted manner and never use it internally as organic and pure essential oils are highly concentrated solutions and can cause harm if not used properly.

Gingergrass essential oil has slight phototoxic effect like the citrus oils, so do not go out in sun immediately after using it topically, to avoid the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays. Consult your Ayurvedic expert before choosing the appropriate essential oils for your unique health condition and individual constitution.

Thought for the day:

To cherish what remains of the Earth and to foster its renewal is our only legitimate hope of survival. -Wendell Berry

Suggested Reading:

Ayurveda & Aromatherapy: The Earth Essential Guide to Ancient Wisdom and Modern Healing by Dr. Light Miller, Dr. Bryan Miller
Traditional Systems of Medicine by M. Z. Abdin
Get Healthy for Good: 52 Brilliant Ideas for Mind and Body Well-being (52 Brilliant Ideas): 52 Brilliant Ideas for Mind and Body Well-being (52 Brilliant Ideas) by Kate Cook
The Aromatherapy Encyclopedia (Volume 2 of 2): A Concise Guide to Over 385 Plant Oils by Carol Schiller

Reference Links:

Ginger Oil

Posted on February 1, 2025 by AyurvedicOils

Ginger oil is known as the “Oil of Empowerment” and is called in Ayurveda as Mahaushadha, meaning “universal medicine”, predominantly for its ability to heal the mind, body and soul, which are the three vital pillars of perfect health in Ayurveda.

Along with turmeric, galangal and cardamom, Ginger is yet another potent limb of the Zingiberaceae plant family. As a common culinary spice, Ginger is found in countless kitchens across the world and takes the pride of being used as a natural home remedy for addressing digestive and respiratory disorders.

Botanically named as Zingiber officinale, this powerful herb is called as Singara, Katubhadra and Srngaveram in Sanskrit. Ginger in any form, say fresh ginger, dried ginger or ginger extracts like juice, essential oil or powder has a bunch of absolute healing wisdom.

Ayurveda, the oldest healing system on earth prescribes Ginger as a remedy for indigestion, flatulence, nausea, loss of appetite, morning sickness, bronchitis, menstrual cramps, respiratory infections, arthritis, cancer and for enhancing the immune power. It is also recommended for treating fear, hopelessness, instability and for rekindling the inner fire for ultimatum.

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Historical importance of Ginger:

Ginger is one among the oldest of spices used for more than 4400 years across different cultures universally. With more than 1,200 species, Ginger has been proved scientifically for treating numerous health disorders. Its name is extracted from a Sanskrit word ‘srngaveram’, which means ‘horn root’.

According to the report by the University of Maryland Medical Center, “It has a long history of being used as medicine in Asian, Indian, and Arabic herbal traditions.” It has also been said that Ginger has been used in the Traditional Chinese Medicine for treating toothache, nausea, stomach upset, diarrhea and certain other digestive disorders.

Ginger and its other extracts have been a vital part of the ancient Ayurvedic remedies for obesity, poor metabolism, abdominal pain, motion sickness, impotence, weak memory, arthritis, flu, menstrual pain and as a heart tonic. It has its name etched in the most respected epic of India, Mahabharata.

This aromatic spice was recommended by King Henry VIII of England in the 16^th century for fighting against the great plague. Greeks used Ginger as to combat the harmful effects of poison.

It is said that the West African women in Senegal knit belts of Ginger to restore their partner’s reproductive potency. Even today, Ginger is used in various dishes across the world for granting the finesse flavor and taste of this miraculous spice with mammoth health benefits.

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Ginger essential oil:

The major chemical components of Ginger essential oil are camphene, a-pinene, b-pinene, zingiberene, geraniol, borneol, neral, geranyl acetate, 1,8-cineole, citral, b-bisabolene, linalool, nerol, geranial and y-terpineol.

These components contribute to its healing properties like carminative, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, analgesic, aphrodisiac, antioxidant, stimulant, antiseptic and emmenagogue.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Ginger essential oil:

Nothing is as astonishing as Mother Nature and the best wonder in the world is the human body that works like a magic to keep one going on and on. Ayurveda states that human beings are a part of nature and their illness and health depends upon their harmony with nature.

It further lights up this thought by stating that nature is made up of five vital elements, namely earth, water, fire, air and space and to our wonder, it’s also been said that a human being also has all these five elements.

Where earth is the muscles and bones, water is the blood, fire is the energy for various vital functions, air is our breath and space is the soul that co-ordinates all other functions and keeps us living.

The concept of healing in Ayurveda solely depends upon nature as it says that all the other things on earth are made for making mankind happy and healthy. For example, earth has 92 elements like calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron etc, and the human body also has all these 92 elements.

When a person lacks magnesium or calcium energy, he/she can take Ginger, which is rich in magnesium and calcium, whereas Ginger grows by absorbing the magnesium and calcium element from earth. How interesting it is, right?

Ayurveda regards every individual as a unique part of nature and suggests that the treatment should also be unique depending upon their individual constitution that is made up of three doshas namely vata, pitta and kapha.

Vata is a representation of air and ether, pitta stands for fire and water and kapha symbolizes earth and water. Vata controls respiratory and nervous functions, pitta takes care of metabolism and body temperature and kapha governs the structure, sustenance and movement of fluids in the body.

Balance between these three doshas indicates health, and imbalance due to unhealthy food habits and change in lifestyle symbolizes illness. Ayurvedic remedies aim at correcting these dosha imbalances with the help of herbs, essential oils, yoga, meditation, physical exercises, Ayurvedic routine, balanced diet and prayer.

Ginger essential oil is said to pacify kapha and vata dosha and aggravate pitta dosha with its warming, spicy, rich, woody and drying energy and aroma.

The Ayurvedic health benefits of Ginger essential oil are:

1. Benefits to the digestive system:

Ginger is popularly known as Adrak in India and is a quick natural remedy for relieving indigestion, bloating, flatulence, dyspepsia, vomiting, spasms, nausea, loss of appetite, piles and colic.

Dr. Jaishree Bhattacharjee, a renowned Ayurvedic Consultant says, “Ginger has many useful minerals like calcium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, copper, zinc and few others. It is a wonderful carminative, anti-flatulent and stimulant.”

Ginger essential oil has the potential to increase pitta energy that is responsible for the digestive fire. Add 2 drops of Ginger essential oil to your diffuser or air freshener before meals and let it stay there till you complete your food.

Inhaling the warming aroma of this oil enhances the appetite and improves the process of digestion, supports absorption of essential nutrients by the body and aids in alleviating the toxic substances with its hot potency, but for which the toxins or ama may otherwise cause serious illnesses.

You can also add 2 drops of Ginger oil to warm bathing water before going to bed or before starting a hectic day. This refreshing bath aids in promoting peaceful sleep, free from bloating, indigestion, gastric pain and other digestive disorders. If it is for the morning, Ginger has a handful of bright benefits like stimulating your nerves, rejuvenating your cells, improving your appetite and augmenting your mental power for facing your day to day challenges.

Ginger and its essential oil have been proven best for treating motion sickness even in children. Numerous studies have witnessed the effectiveness of Ginger is better than the effects of dimenhydrate, which is the most important ingredient in over-the-counter motion sickness and seasickness remedies like Dramamine.

It works by stimulating the flow of saliva and other digestive juices, pacifies the stomach, relieves pain due to gas and diarrhea, controls vomiting and supports easy discharge of stools. Mix 1 drop of Ginger essential oil with 10 drops of sesame oil and massage it gently on your stomach and abdomen for treating constipation and motion sickness.

2. Benefits to the mind:

Ginger essential oil is an effective natural remedy for treating emotional problems like fear, abandonment, and lack of self-confidence and of motivation. Using 2 drops of Ginger essential oil in diffuser, aromatic candles or in bath can help in improving memory power, treat mood swings, tendency to procrastinate, disconnectiveness, hopelessness, stress, anxiety, exhaustion, restlessness and depression.

Ginger oil is an excellent stimulant to the mind, body and soul. The encouraging aroma of this oil rekindles the inner fire and grants the power and confidence to step ahead and lead with courage and confidence.

Massaging your upper and lower abdomen (the root, sacral and solar plexus chakra) with 2 drops of Ginger oil with 1 ml of coconut oil aids in eliminating fear and mental blocks, enhancing the sense of trust, mental strength and enlightening the divine power rested within.

3. Benefits to the reproductive system:

Ginger is simply hot to support your intimacy with your partner as it has enormous aphrodisiac properties that have been assisting in the treatment of impotency, loss of libido, loss of sexual interest and premature ejaculation.

Gill Farrer-Halls in his book ‘The Aromatherapy Bible’ states that Ginger oil is an effective aphrodisiac and acts as a mild stimulant also. 2 drops of Ginger oil blended with 1 drop of Sandalwood oil and 1 drop of Rose oil added to your diffuser can drive in the positive energy required both physically and mentally for a complete “we time” together, by toning up the sexual organs and pacifying your mood.

Massaging your lower abdomen with 2 drops of Ginger oil blended with 1 ml of olive oil can be of great help in treating the problems of the female reproductive system by regularizing blocked or irregular menstruation, relieving menstrual pain and treating other problems associated with menstruation like nausea, dizziness, fatigue and mood fluctuations. Inhaling the reviving aroma of Ginger oil can aid in treating nausea and morning sickness during pregnancy.

4. Benefits to the respiratory system:

Ginger essential oil has the power to reduce kapha dosha. According to Ayurveda, excess of kapha energy is the main reason for respiratory problems like bronchitis, cold, sinusitis, asthma and congestion.

Ginger oil also has expectorant properties that aids in loosening the mucous and phlegm deposits and with its antiseptic properties, it assists in curbing the growth of microbes that spread respiratory infections.

Researchers of the Columbia University have proved that the components in Ginger root have properties that help asthma patients to breathe easily. The post-doctoral research fellow in the Columbia University Department of Anesthesiology, Elizabeth Townsend says, “In our study, we demonstrated that purified components of ginger can work synergistically with β-agonists to relax ASM.”

Adding 2 drops of Ginger essential oil in steam inhalation can assist in reducing cough, clear chest and nasal congestion, relieving sinusitis and helping in treating cold and flu symptoms. You can also rub your chest, back and throat with your regular Vapor rub mixed with 1 drop of Ginger oil for quick relief. Even today Ginger tea is a delicious and healthy way to keep away from cold, cough and flu in the Indian kitchens.

5. Benefits to the muscular system:

Muscular pain is a common illness that most of us experience in our day to day lives. Headache, back pain, knee pain and pain all over the body after a strenuous work are not a surprise to many of us.

What we all do is, rush to the pharmacy and grab pain relieving creams and sprays that grant relief. Most of us fail to realize that these over-the-counter remedies give temporary relief only and force us to use them again when the pain peeps out even worse the next time.

Ginger essential oil has anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic and analgesic properties that make it an exuberant natural aid for treating muscular pain, migraine pain, rheumatic pain, back pain, headache, joint pain, arthritis and weakness.

Excess of vata and kapha energy in the body lead to swelling, water stagnation, accumulation of toxic substances, inflammation, sore muscles, weakened nerves and muscular tension.

With its potent to reduce vata and kapha dosha and increase pitta or the fire energy, 3 drops of Ginger essential oil blended with 1 teaspoon of almond oil massaged gently on the painful area, spreads warmth in the body, reduces swelling and inflammation by eliminating toxic substances and water deposits from the body through urine and sweat and relieves pain by causing numbness in the painful parts.

6. Benefits to the entire system:

Ginger and its essential oil also act as a heart tonic and helps in improved circulation. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, few studies have proved that ginger has the potential to prevent blood clotting, lower cholesterol, prevent blood vessels from getting blocked, which may otherwise lead to stroke or heart attack.

Ginger essential oil has antioxidant properties that have been proved efficacious in the prevention and treatment of cancerous cells. A 2011 study on ‘Antioxidant activity of the volatile oils of Zingiber officinale (ginger)’ published in Spatula-DD, A peer reviewed journal on complementary medicine and drug discovery says “Ginger extracts have reduced total cholesterol, triglycerides and phospholipids levels, as well as cellular cholesterol accumulation, reduce DPPH absorption, scavenge free radicals and it has potential to improve the histopathological lesion occurring in different layers of the arterial tissue. In other word it is effective in attenuating of atherosclerosis development.”

This dominant herb has also been witnessed effective in the treatment of ovarian cancer. A 2006 study by the University Of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center presented in the annual meeting of the American association for Cancer Research stated that using Ginger solution (made with Ginger powder and water) on ovarian cancer cells ended up in their death. These cancerous cells died either due to autophagy (attacked/digested themselves) or due to apoptosis (committed suicide).

The book “A Complete Guide To Understanding and Using Aromatherapy For Vibrant Health and Beauty,” says that Ginger essential oil is effective in treating varicose veins and cellulites.

With rich vitamin C, Ginger oil can also help in treating scurvy. Mix 1 drop of Ginger oil with 10 drops of jojoba oil and apply it on the affected area for enhancing the skin health and reducing the symptoms of aging with its antioxidant properties.

Other health benefits:

Ginger essential oil can also assist in treating rheumatism, arthritis, muscular pain, loss of libido, problems of the lymphatic system, sore throat, chills, disconnectiveness, improper blood circulation, increased blood sugar levels, back pain and mood swings.

Disclaimer:

This article is only for the purpose of information and is not meant for treating or replacing any prescription drugs or professional medical advice. Always consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before choosing the right essential oil for your unique health condition and individual constitution.

Never use essential oils internally and always use essential oils in a diluted manner as pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated liquids and may cause allergic reactions if used directly on the skin. Care should be taken, if you are a pregnant or nursing woman.

Thought for the day:

Deep in their roots, all flowers keep the light.
-Theodore Roethke

Suggested Reading:

Ginger: Common Spice and Wonder Drug by Paul Schulick
A Spoonful of Ginger: Irresistible Health-Giving Recipes from Asian Kitchens by Nina Simonds
The Chopra Center Herbal Handbook: Forty Natural Prescriptions for Perfect Health by David Simon M.D., Deepak Chopra M.D.
Ayurveda & Aromatherapy: The Earth Essential Guide to Ancient Wisdom and Modern Healing by Dr. Light Miller, Dr. Bryan Miller
Ginger Recipes: 33 Mouth-Watering Recipes Using Natures Super Spice for Weight Loss, Health, and Beauty. (The Simple Recipe Series) by Ready Recipe Books

Reference Links:

Jatamansi Oil

Posted on January 24, 2025 by AyurvedicOils

Respected as a divine herb in Ayurveda, Jatamansi is used as a tonic for the brain and the nervous system. It has been suggested by numerous Ayurvedic texts for treating sleeping troubles, depression, stress, anxiety, chronic fatigue syndrome and nervous problems.

Charaka Samhita, the celebrated Ayurvedic Encyclopedia recommends Jatamansi herb for improving memory power, treating insomnia, hysteria and mental instability. Scientifically known as Nardostachys jatamansi, this herb is known as Balchara or Mamsi in Ayurveda and is also known by other names like Indian Spikenard, Nardus root, Jaila, Musk root, Nardin and Nard.

Purchase Jatamansi Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical uses of Jatamansi and its essential oil:

Indigenous to the Himalayas, Jatamansi grows up to 1 m at an altitude of 3,000 to 5,000 feet. This plant bears red, pink or blue color flowers and has been used in various traditional medicines for its medicinal and aromatic rhizomes.

There are many Biblical references of this herb and it is used to represent St. Joseph in the Catholic iconography. It is mentioned in the New Testament where Mary, the sister of Lazarus uses a pint of pure Jatamansi oil to anoint the holy feet of Jesus Christ. It is also noted in the Song of Solomon as nard and is included in the coat of arms of Pope Francis in reference to St. Joseph.

Jatamansi oil was an important part of the Ayurvedic tradition since the primordial times where the medicated oil is known to cure insomnia, digestive problems, epilepsy, hysteria, weak mental health, improper blood circulation and as a tonic to the entire system. This herb was used as a diuretic and as a herb for the heath of heart and liver in Unani medicine.

The powdered rhizomes of Jatamansi were taken internally to treat hepatitis, infertility, menstrual disorders, cleanse the uterus, mental agitation, enhance the appetite and helpful in the treatment of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.

Jatamansi was also used by renowned Physicians like Dioscorides and Apicius. The Persian and Arabian Physicians praised this herb as Sumbul-i-Hindi. The medicated Nard oil was offered on the precious incense altar when Tabernacle was positioned in the First and Second temples of Jerusalem.

Spikenard or Jatamansi was also used as a flavoring agent in the ancient Roman cuisines and as a seasoning in the Medieval European food varieties. It is used in making attars, perfume (L’eau De Jatamansi), incense sticks, hair care products and numerous beauty products. Jatamansi is also used along with certain other herbs in Vedic prayers performed with fire since the ancient period.

Therapeutic properties and chemical constituents of Jatamansi oil:

The principal constituents of Jatamansi oil are valeranone, nardostachone, bornyl acetate, jatamansinol, dihydrojatamansin, isobornyl, terpineol, jatamansinone, tetramenthyloxatricylodecanol, oroselone, aromadendrene, Menthylthymyl-ether, nardosinone, seselin, nardostachyin, valeranal, cineol-1,8, spirojatamol and jatamansic acid and few other coumarins. The remedial properties of this oil are nervine, antiseptic, diuretic, laxative, anti-inflammatory, tonic, anti-pyretic, deodorant, fungicidal, sedative, anti-depressant and calmative.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Jatamansi essential oil:

Ayurveda is a righteous science that trusts that every creature on earth is a part of nature and it believes that one’s illness and wellness depends upon their balance or imbalance with nature. Ayurvedic texts strongly state that human body is a temple where the spirit dwells in, so it is very important to keep the body, mind and spirit clean and composed just like preserving a place of worship.

Ayurveda is called as a holistic healing methodology as it approaches health as being mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually fit. It is for this reason; Ayurvedic physicians recommend herbs, essential oils, yoga, physical exercises, balanced diet, meditation, Ayurvedic routine and prayers to keep one hale and hearty.

Every individual is treated in a unique manner even if they are affected by the same illness because the theory of Ayurveda identifies every human being as a unique part of nature and as a distinct creation with a unique individual constitution. This constitution is built up of three major bio-energies known as doshas. They are vata, kapha and pitta. These doshas govern various functions of our body and imbalance of these energies cause sickness.

Each and every human being has a predominance of any one these Ayurvedic body types that determine their personality, physique, mental attributes, behavior and preferences. Ayurvedic remedies aim at balancing the dosha imbalances as perfect balance between these doshas are a clear sign of healthy and heartiness.

Jatamansi is a promising Ayurvedic remedy that has the potent to pacify all the three doshas, especially pitta and kapha energies.

And it’s time to look at the amazing Ayurvedic health benefits of Jatamansi essential oil.1. Alleviates depression, stress and insomnia:

The rhizomes of Jatamansi herb have strong anti-depressant properties that calms the mind, relaxes the body and grants absolute peace to the entire system. 2 drops of Jatamansi oil added to your diffuser, burner, vaporizer or to bathing water is said to alleviate depression, chronic stress, anxiety, insomnia and tension.

Blend 5 drops of this oil with 2.5 ml of sesame oil and massage your body for relieving from chronic fatigue syndrome, nervous headache, negative feelings, sleeping difficulties, lack of self-confidence and sluggishness. Jatamansi is loved as a herb for the mind and emotions with its anti-depressant, anti-stress and antioxidant properties that help in lessening oxidative stress thus mitigating chronic fatigue syndrome.

Since the traditional times, several studies have proved the effectiveness of Jatamansi as a promising de-stressing and sedative agent by increasing the rest time. A 2012 study on ‘Nardostachys jatamansi protects against cold restraint stress induced central monoaminergic and oxidative changes in rats’ stated that this herb has potent anti-stress qualities representing its therapeutic significance in disorders related to stress.

A 2008 study on ‘Inhibition of MAO and GABA: probable mechanisms for antidepressant-like activity of Nardostachys jatamansi DC. in mice’ revealed that the ethanolic extracts of Jatamansi emerges to be a potent anti-depressive means when compared to reference drugs like Sertaline and Imipramine in decreasing depressive signs in mice. This study also state that “the extract may have potential therapeutic value for the management of mental depression.”

2. Tonic to your intellect:

Jatamansi and its essential oil have been used in many Ayurvedic preparations as a neuro-protective agent and brain tonic for improving memory power, cognitive performance and thinking capacity. It has been trusted to promote intellectual power, improve mental weaknesses, instability and mental sluggishness.

A 2006 study on ‘Nardostachys jatamansi improves learning and memory in mic’e by Joshi and Parle, Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, India proved that Jatamansi extracts significantly enhanced memory power and learning in both aged and young mice.

This study also reiterates the clinically proven use of Jatamansi herb in Ayurveda as an antioxidant, anti-ischemic, neuro-protective and anticonvulsant agent and it also states that Jatamansi can also be used as a memory uplifting agent in the healing of dementia in elderly people.

You can wear 1 drop of Jatamansi oil on your wrist, handkerchief or a tissue paper at the time of studying or in your room whenever you feel like refreshing your mind power. You can also add 2 drops of this oil in air freshener, diffuser, burner or vaporizer for adding muscles to your brain power and intellect.

3. Puts an end to hostile and obstinate behaviors:

The essential oil of Jatamansi has calming, soothing, cooling, restoring and relaxing qualities that assist in holding back the burning sensation of the mind and body. Being a natural coolant that calms pitta or the fire energy, Jatamansi essential oil can work wonders in controlling your negative emotions like anger, aggressiveness, stubborn behaviors, tension and intimidating attributes.

Adding 2 drops of Jatamansi oil in warm bathing water or in your diffuser or aromatic lamp can effectively control resentment by tranquilizing your mind and body. You can also opt for a calming massage by blending 5 drops of Jatamansi oil with 2.5 ml sesame oil.

4. Treats nervous disorders:

Jatamansi is held high in Ayurveda as a powerful neuro-protective agent that calms vata energy, clears pitta force and decreases kapha dosha. By this way, Jatamansi nourishes and cools the worn out and burning nervous system.

It aids in treating various nervous disorders along with bipolar disorders, delusions and certain other psychological problems. Jatamansi have been clinically proven effective since the primeval period in the treatment of epilepsy, insomnia, Parkinson’s disease, nervous breakdown and hysteria.

Abhyanga or the art of Ayurvedic massaging is the best method to use Jatamansi for treating nervous disorders. Mix 5 drops of Jatamansi oil with 2.5 ml of coconut oil and massage it gently on the affected parts. The deep penetrating quality of this oil supports in improving nervous problems.

5. Relieves respiratory problems:

Jatamansi oil has the potent to reduce kapha energy, the excess of which is responsible for the creation of mucus and phlegm. This oil assists in expelling the excess mucous deposits and phlegm accumulated in the chest, nasal passages and respiratory tract.

Adding 2 drops of Jatamansi oil to 1ml of coconut oil or your cold rub and massaging it on your throat, back and chest can aid in opening up blocked nasal passages, clear chest congestion, treat cough and cold, spasmodic cough, asthma, whooping cough and sinusitis. You can also add 2 drops of this oil in steam inhalation for quick relief from respiratory troubles.

6. Reduces heart palpitations and convulsions:

Palpitations of the heart are caused when vata energy shoves pitta dosha and leads it to rush through the channels characterized by unnoticed skipped beats, increased heart rate, breathing difficulty and dizziness.

The oil of Jatamansi is used in the treatment of palpitations of the heart and convulsions mainly because of its anti-convulsive and anti-arrhythmic activity. 2 drops of Jatamansi oil added to warm foot bath or bathing water or gently massaged on the affected area after blending it with 1 ml olive oil can ease tension and grant relief from convulsions and palpitations.

Other health benefits:

Jatamansi is indeed a miraculous part of nature that has innumerable healing properties ingrained in it. The essential oil of Jatamansi has been used as a uterus stimulant for promoting menstruation, cleansing the uterus, treating dysmennorhea and inflammation of the uterus. It was also used as an aphrodisiac in treating impotence and seminal debility. It is also known for promoting the growth of hair, retain its natural color and slow down the process of graying.

Jatamansi oil is a natural antiseptic that assists in healing wounds, eczema, burns, rashes, allergies and certain other skin infections due the infestation of microbes like bacteria and fungi. It is also effective in the treatment of renal colic, liver enlargement, hepatitis, jaundice, pancreatitis, fever and lung problems.

Disclaimer:

This article is only for the purpose of information and is not destined to substitute any professional medical advice or prescribed medication. Never take essential oils internally and use it topically in a diluted form only, as organic and pure essential oils are highly concentrated liquids and can harm you if used in a concentrated form. Remember to consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before using the appropriate essential oil for your health condition and unique individual constitution.

Thought for the day:

Change your opinions, keep to your principles; change your leaves, keep intact your roots. -Victor Hugo

Suggested Reading:

Ayurvedic Herbs: A Clinical Guide to the Healing Plants of Traditional Indian Medicine by Virginia M Tyler, M.S. Premila
THE COMPLETE BOOK ON JATROPHA (BIO-DIESEL) WITH ASHWAGANDHA, STEVIA, BRAHMI & JATAMANSI HERBS (CULTIVATION, PROCESSING & USES) by NIIR BOARD OF CONSULTANTS AND ENGINEERS
Healing Depression the Mind-Body Way: Creating Happiness with Meditation, Yoga, and Ayurveda by Nancy Liebler, Sandra Moss
The Chopra Center Herbal Handbook: Forty Natural Prescriptions for Perfect Health by David Simon M.D., Deepak Chopra M.D.
Ayurveda & Aromatherapy: The Earth Essential Guide to Ancient Wisdom and Modern Healing by Dr. Light Miller, Dr. Bryan Miller

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