Description
Spikenard oil is extracted from Nardostachys jatamansi of the Valerianaceae family and is also known as “false” Indian valerian root.
Oil properties
Spikenard oil has a warm, misty, heavy aroma, is pale yellow in color and medium in viscosity.
Origin of Spikenard oil
Spikenard is a tender aromatic herb with a pungent rhizome root and native to the mountainous regions of northern India, as well as China and Japan.
It is one of the early aromatics used by the ancient Egyptians and is mentioned in the Bible, in Song of Solomon, and in the Book of John where Mary used it to anoint the feet of Jesus.
It was used by wealthy Roman women in perfumes and beauty preparations.
Extraction
Spikenard oil is extracted from the crushed and dried rhizome of the herb by steam distillation and yields 1-3%
Chemical composition
The main chemical components are bornyl acetate, valeranone, jonon, tetramenthyloxatricylodecanol, menthylthymyl-ether and 1,8-cineol.
Precautions
Spikenard oil has no known contra-indications, but care should be taken as with all oils.
Therapeutic properties
The therapeutic properties of spikenard oil are anti-inflammatory, anti-pyretic, antiseptic, calmative, sedative, laxative and tonic.
Uses
Spikenard oil can be effective for tension, stress, migraine, nervous indigestion and insomnia.
It seems to have rejuvenating qualities especially for the mature skin, and can help with allergies, skin inflammations and rashes.
- Vapor therapy or used in the bath
- In vapor therapy or diluted in the bath Spikenard oil can help with tension, stress and insomnia.
- Blended massage oil
- As blended massage oil, Spikenard oil can assist with tension, stress, migraine and insomnia.
Spikenard oil blends well with
Although most essential oils blend well with one another, Spikenard oil blends particularly well with Lavender, Lemon, Clary sage, Neroli, Patchouli and Vetiver.
More information about Spikenard Oil
Skincare ~ rejuvenating qualities especially for aging / mature skin ~ anti-bacterial & anti-fungal properties ~ helps skin allergies, inflammation, rashes, dermatitis, psoriasis, varicose veins, wounds & improves blood circulation
Musculoskeletal System ~ helps treat all types of aches & pains
Nervous System ~ calming & seductive properties ~ effective for tension, stress, migraines, nervous indigestion & insomnia ~ soothes deepest forms of anxiety & installs a profound sense of peace
Emotional ~ Spiritual ~ helps heal those that struggle in vain to find the stable ground of faith ~ it is then that the ‘release’ into spiritual openness may be of great assistance ~ emotional & spiritual balancing
Blends Well With ~ Clary Sage, Clove, Cypress, Frankincense, Geranium, Juniperberry, Lavender, Lemon, Lemongrass, Lemon Myrtle, Mandarin, Myrrh, Myrtle, Neroli, Oakmoss, Orange, Patchouli, Petitgrain, Pine, Rose, Sage, Tangerine, Vetiver.
Safety ~ Non-toxic, non-irritant & non-sensitising
