Description
Elemi oil is extracted from the resin of Canarium luzonicum (also known as C. commune) of the Burseraceae family and is also known as Manila elemi.
Oil properties
Elemi oil has a citrus-like smell, a bit spicy and is pale in color.
Origin of Elemi
It is a tropical tree from the Philippines that can grow up to 30 meters (98 feet) high. The tree exudes a pale yellow resin when the tree sprouts leaves.
The resin solidifies on contact with the air and the resin stops flowing when the tree loses its leaves.
The Elemi tree is known locally as ‘Pili” and the gum is exported from Manila in two qualities: ‘Primera’ which is cleaned gum and ‘Secunda’ which is still crude and unclean.
The ancient Egyptians used elemi oil in the embalming process. These days is used in incense, soaps and varnish.
Extraction
Elemi oil is extracted from the gum by steam distillation. A resinoid and resin are also produced in small quantities.
Chemical composition
The main chemical components of elemi oil are terpineol, elemicine, elemol, dipentene, phellandrene and limonene.
Precautions
No special precautions are needed, but please note that elemi oil can be irritating to a sensitive skin.
Therapeutic Properties
The therapeutic properties of elemi oil are analgesic, expectorant, tonic, antiseptic and stimulant.
Uses
Elemi can be useful with respiratory complaints such as bronchitis, dry cough and excess mucus.
It is also helpful in cases of heavy perspiration, cuts, wounds and skin infections. Elemi oil is said to rejuvenate the skin.
It can be used in cases of nervous exhaustion and stress related conditions; it gives a feeling of peace.
Summary
Elemi oil is helpful in the treatment of the respiratory tract, skin conditions and in lifting the spirit.
- Burners and vaporizers
- In vapor therapy elemi oil can be used for nervous and respiratory conditions.
- Blended oil or in the bath
- Elemi oil can be used in blended massage oil, or diluted in the bath, to assist with nervous and respiratory conditions, stress related problems and skin infections.
Elemi oil blends well with
It blends well with frankincense, lavender, rosemary, myrrh and sage.
More information about Elemi Oil
Skin Care ~ recommended for mature, ageing, sun-damaged & tired skin ~ reduce fine lines & wrinkles ~ helps improve skin tone & firmness ~ rejuvenates & supports the skin ~ helps reduce scarring, skin conditions & infections, redness, rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, blemished & acne ~ useful for excessive perspiration
Digestive System ~ helps digestive disorders
Immune System ~ boosts immunity ~ potent analgesic (pain relieving) properties ~ antiseptic properties ~ protects against infections & wounds ~ microbial, bacteria, fungi, viruses,septic & tetanus ~ strong antioxidant ~ protects against free radicals
Lymphatic System ~ stimulates circulation
Musculoskeletal System ~ helps relieve muscular aches & pains, nerve & joint pain ~ sprains & strains ~ arthritis ~ soothes muscles after exercise
Nervous System ~ helps to calm, relieve stress & nervous exhaustion ~ helps heal headaches & migraines
Respiratory System ~ provides relief from breathing troubles ~ helpful for chest infections ~ congestion in lungs & nose ~ treats sinusitis & chills ~ helps relieve extreme coughing ~ excellent expectorant properties ~ loosens phlegm or catarrh ~ relieves pain caused from colds, fever & earaches
Emotional ~ Spiritual ~ grounding & harmonising ~ brings balance to both the spiritual & emotional planes ~ & balancing ~ used in meditation ~ beneficially for those depleted emotionally ~ helps dispel loneliness & create a more positive outlook & encourages hopefulness
Blends well with ~ Allspice, Benzoin, Bergamot, Black Pepper, Cananga, Cardamon, CInnamon, Clove, Clary Sage, Fir Needle, Frangipani, Frankincense, Geranium, Ginger, Gingergrass, Lavender, Lemon, Lemon Balm, Lemongrass, Lemon Myrtle, Lemon Verbena, Lime, Mandarin, Melissa, Myrrh, Orange, Nutmeg, Patchouli, Peru Balsam, Peppermint, Rose Geranium, Rosemary, Rosewood, Sage, Sandalwood, Siberian Fir, Spearmint, Spruce, Tangerine, Vanilla, Ylang Ylang
Safety ~ non-toxic, non-irritating & non-sensitizing ~ not recommended to apply to babies skin
