The Health and Beauty Benefits of Agarwood Essential Oil
Like many essential oils, agarwood essential oil has many health and beauty benefits. Agarwood is also known as aloeswood, oud, and gaharu. Agarwood has a light or pale color when the trees are healthy; but after the wood is infected by disease, it turns dark, aromatic, and produces a resin called oleoresin. Agarwood has a luxurious and unique aroma. Pure agarwood essential oil is very precious since the trees have become an endangered species. It is extracted from the heart of the various species of agarwood trees such as Aquilaria malaccensis, Aquilaria crassna or Aquilaria agallocha.
The essential oil of agarwood is extracted from the rich dark resin through a water distillation process. The quality of the oil is graded by the length of the distillation process and the oil is usually sold by weight. The resin is like wine, the older the richer and more full–bodied, and the more it is prized. Since they are rarely found in the wild, the trees are now cultivated and artificially infected to create the oleoresin.
The essential oil of agarwood has a strong, pleasing and complex scent, which is why it is used for making perfumes and deodorants. It is commonly blended with sandalwood, myrrh, frankincense, jasmine, lemon, rose, bergamot, patchouli, vetiver, orris root, palo santo, lime, and ylang ylang, read on for some suggested therapeutic uses of agarwood essential oil.
| Name | Scientific Name | Origin | Benefits | Caution | Storage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agarwood | Aquilaria Malaccensis, Aquilaria Crassna or Aquilaria Agallocha | Originated in Bhutan, North Eastern India, Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines and Papau New Guinea | Agarwood promotes relaxation, relieves symptoms of rheumatism, promotes reproductive health, digestive health, and acts as a diuretic | Is an endangered species and rare and expensive in its pure form | Airtight dark vial kept in a cool, dry place away from sunlight |
The History of Agarwood Essential Oil
Agarwood is native to Bhutan, North Eastern India, Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines, and Papua, New Guinea. It is used by Tibetan monks to increase energy and calm the mind. It is very popular in Japan and Saudi Arabia.
The Health Benefits of Agarwood Essential Oil
Agarwood essential oil possesses anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help relieve symptoms of rheumatism, arthritis, pain and swelling. It functions as a diuretic by eliminating excess sodium, toxins and uric acid through urination. It supports digestion. It also supports skin health by eliminating free radicals. It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The scent of agarwood essential oil is said to uplift mood and mental acuity. Agarwood is believed to promote motility and increase sperm count. Read this PDF file for more detailed information about the Health and Beauty Benefits of Agarwood Essential Oil. Agarwood essential oil has many health benefits discussed below.
Therapeutic Uses of Agarwood Essential Oil
- A massage with a few drops of agarwood essential oil on the tummy will aid digestion, and provide relief from bloating and gas.
- Topical application of agarwood essential oil (few drops to the bottom of the feet) aids in expelling toxins.
- Massage diluted in a carrier oil on painful joints or aching muscles or add to a hot compress and apply to affected area.
- Add to a diffuser for focus and relaxation while meditating.
- It can be used as a massage oil and apply to any sore areas. It should be diluted before topical application.
- Add a few drops to a warm bath for relaxation.
- Add a few drops to a facial cleanser or body wash to revitalize skin.
Precautions
The essential oil of agarwood must be diluted in a carrier oil before applying it to the skin. Agarwood essential oil is safe to use. Always perform a patch test first. As with any essential oil or alternative therapy, consult a physician before using in aromatherapy or in a topical application. Women who are pregnant or nursing should consult a physician before using.
Oils to Avoid in Pregnancy
Women who are pregnant should use essential oils with caution. Some oils are best steering clear of altogether. These are: Acorus Calamus, Ajwain, Allspice, Amyris, Anise (Aniseed), Angelica, Apricot Kernel, Asafoetida, Cinnamon, Clove, Cumin, Fennel, Hyssop, Oregano, Thyme, Sage, Star Anise, Sweet Birch, and Wintergreen.
Never use essential oils in a humidifier, CPAP machine, or any other breathing device.
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Sources:
Agarwood Facts and Health Benefits
https://www.healthbenefitstimes.com/agarwood/
Agarwood Essential Oil
https://www.healthbenefitstimes.com/agarwood-essential-oil/
https://webessentialoils.com/agarwood-essential-oil/
https://healthyfocus.org/7-uses-for-agarwood-essential-oil/