Amyris Essential Oil of Santal, Ancient, 10 ml

Amyris essential oil from the sandalwood tree is also known as West Indian sandalwood oil because of its sandalwood-like scent. It is obtained by steam distillation from the bark and branches of the Amyris balsamifera tree. Due to its high oil content, the wood burns like a candle, which is why it is known locally as candlewood. It is a cheaper alternative to pure sandalwood.

The oil has been used to clean wounds, treat flu and diarrhoea. When used in a vapouriser, it helps to relieve anxiety and tension, insomnia and acts as an aphrodisiac, reducing impotence and frigidity. It is used to treat coughs, colds and bronchitis. Its calming properties are said to help in meditation. It is also a muscle relaxant and emollient.

The botanical origin of the tree from which this oil is derived was unknown until 1886, when microscopic examination of the leaves revealed the main differences between this plant and the true sandalwood. The Amyris balsamifera tree grows wild in Haiti. Its healing and aromatic properties made its essential oils more valuable to the ancients than gold.

Amyris Balsamifera essential oil.