Exclusive Guide to Ravintsara Essential Oil
Cinnamomum camphora cineole
Origin: Madagascar
Distilled part: Leaves
Extraction method: Steam distillation
Cultivation: Certified Organic farming
Botanically and Biochemically Defined Essential Oil (HEBBD), chemotyped (HECT)
Color: Pale yellow
Scent: Fresh, strongly herbaceous aroma
Note: Top note
Plant Family: Lauraceae
SUPER POWERS
Anthelmintic
- destroys parasites, worms
Antibacterial
- kills bacterial growth or prevents bacteria from growing
Anticatarrhal
- helps to remove excess mucus from the body
Antifungal
- prevents or kills fungus growth
Anti-infectious
- prevents or treats an infection
Antiseptic
- prevents or combats bacterial infection
Antiviral
- kills or inhibits the growth of viruses
Expectorant
- promotes the removal of mucus from the lungs, bronchi, and trachea
Immunostimulant
- stimulates and strengthens the immune system
Mucolytic
- helps fluidify mucus in the lungs, making it easier to cough up
USAGE TIPS
Cold sores
avintsara oil has potent antiviral properties and is therefore very effective at cleaning a cold sore.
Mix 1 drop of ravintsara oil with 1 drop of coconut oil, and apply to the cold sore using a clean cotton swab. Repeat 2-3 times a day.
Coughing
Add 3 drops to a stem inhalation, or mix 4 drops with 1 teaspoon (5ml) of carrier oil, and massage into the chest.
Cuts & wounds
The antiseptic properties in ravintsara oil help protect cuts and wounds from infection. Therefore mix 3 drops with 1 teaspoon (5ml) of carrier oil, and apply over the area of concern 2 times a day.
Immunostimulant
Mix 4 drops with 1 teaspoon of carrier oil and massage into the soles of the feet. Or add 6 drops in 1 tablespoon (15ml) of carrier oil to a warm bath. Ravintsara helps to strengthen and support the immune system, protecting it from illness and viruses.
Mental Clarity
Diffuse or directly inhale Ravintsara oil when you need mental clarity or focus. Its crisp, clean scent can help reduce fatigue and enhance alertness.
Add 5 drops to your diffuser or inhale directly from the bottle, or add 2 drops on a tissue or cotton pad and inhale.
Verrucas and Warts
Viruses are responsible for both verrucas and warts. Warts are most common on fingers, hands and feet, but can grow anywhere. Verrucas most usually grow on the soles of the feet or the underside of toes.
Use neat Ravintsara oil on a cotton swab and dab the wart or verruca after you have cleaned it. For children under 5 years, put 2 drops in 1 teaspoon (5ml) of cider vinegar. Use a clean cotton swab each time the skin is touched. Repeat once a day until it is gone.
Respiratory Support
Inhalation:
Add a few drops of Ravintsara oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam. This method is excellent for clearing nasal passages and supporting respiratory health.
Diffuser:
Use 5 drops in an aroma diffuser to help purify the air and promote easy breathing, especially during cold seasons.
Sinus Congestion Relief
Add 2 drops of Ravintsara oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes. This can help clear blocked sinuses and ease discomfort caused by sinusitis.
Destroys Parasites, Worms
Mix 4 drops of Ravintsara with 1 teaspoon (5ml) of coconut oil and massage it into the abdomen twice a day to help combat intestinal parasites. This can be combined with dietary support like consuming more fiber to enhance the effect.
Bacterial Infections
Ravintsara oil is highly effective at clearing bacterial infections. Mix 4 drops with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil, and apply over the affected area twice daily.
Make a diffuser blend: Antibacterial Blend
10 drops Rosalina
8 drops Lavender
4 drops Geranium
6 drops Lemon
6 drops Palmarosa
10 drops Ravintsara
Make up the blend of essential oils in a dark bottle, and store it in a dark cold place. Now you have a blend ready to go when you need it.
Use 4-10 drops in your diffuser, or use 4 drops of the blend to 1 teaspoon (5ml) of carrier oil (organic vegetable oil) and 1 teaspoon of salt before adding to the bath water and dispersing well with your hand before you get in.
Eliminates Bacterial Growth
For bacterial skin infections, dilute 3-4 drops of Ravintsara with 1 teaspoon of carrier oil and apply to the affected area twice daily. It’s especially useful for conditions like acne or small cuts.
Fungal Infections
For fungal infections like athlete's foot, mix 4 drops of Ravintsara oil with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. Apply to the affected area twice daily to reduce fungal growth and relieve symptoms.
Energy Boost
Diffuse 4-5 drops of Ravintsara oil during periods of fatigue or mental exhaustion to uplift the mood and increase energy levels.
Stress & Anxiety Reduction
Combine 5 drops of Ravintsara with 3 drops of Lavender in a diffuser to create a calming atmosphere that helps alleviate stress and anxiety.
Herpes Simplex Relief
Mix 1 drop of Ravintsara with 1 drop of tea tree oil and 1 teaspoon of carrier oil. Apply directly to herpes sores to help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Prevents or Treats Infections
Mix 3 drops of Ravintsara with 1 teaspoon of carrier oil and massage into lymphatic areas like the neck and underarms to help prevent infections during cold and flu season. You can also apply it to the soles of the feet for general immune support.
Minor Wounds & Insect bites
Apply a blend of 2-3 drops of Ravintsara mixed with 1 teaspoon of carrier oil directly on minor wounds, scrapes, or insect bites to prevent bacterial infections.
Fights Viral Infections
Ravintsara is excellent for viral infections like the flu or cold sores. For flu, diffuse 5 drops throughout the day, or mix 4 drops with 1 teaspoon of carrier oil and massage into the chest, neck, and back.
Breaks Up Mucus in the Lungs
Inhale directly or diffuse 5 drops of Ravintsara to help thin and break up mucus in the lungs, making it easier to expel when dealing with chest congestion or a persistent cough.
Method of use & Amount to use
Aroma diffusers
Use 5-15 drops in your diffuser or the amount suggested with your diffuser.
Baths, Hot tubs, Jacuzzis
Bath: Diluted 3-8 drops
Start by running your bath as you normally would and keep the bathroom door closed to retain the aroma. Essential oils can be applied directly in their concentrated form or diluted.
For dilution, use a carrier oil, milk, milk powder, vegetable glycerin, seaweed powder, herbal powder, baking soda, salt, or Epsom salts to prevent skin sensitivity.
Add the essential oil to the bathwater, either neat or diluted, then stir the water with your hand to disperse the oil evenly before entering the tub. This method helps distribute the essential oil throughout the bath for a more enjoyable experience.
Hot tubs & Jacuzzis: up to 8 drops
Mix the essential oil into the water thoroughly using your hand. Since essential oils do not dissolve in water, they may leave residues in or around your pipes.
Compresses
3-10 drops in 120 ml of water
Learn more
Face masks, oils, and tonic
Face masks: 1 or 2 drops per 2 tbs. (15ml) of natural facemask.
Face oils: 12 drops in 30ml of carrier oil. For elderly and children use 6 drops per 30ml of carrier oil.
Use a dark-colored glass bottle, which helps protect your oils from light degradation. First, pour in the carrier oil. If you’re using a single essential oil or a premixed blend, add it directly to the carrier oil. If you’re crafting your own unique blend, mix your essential oils together first, then integrate the desired number of drops into the carrier oil. Remember, a little goes a long way, so only use a small amount for each application. Click here to read more about which carrier oil to choose.
Face tonic: 8-15 drops in 100ml of spring or distilled water or hydrosol.
Combine the oil and water before filtering through an unbleached paper coffee filter.
Our 100% organic and natural hydrosols can be used directly as a tonic. Shut your eyes and spray your face. Or spray a cotton pad and wipe your face with it.
Inhalation from bowl
3-5 drops per bowl of steaming hot water.
To use essential oils in steam inhalation, start by bringing a pot of water to a boil and then removing it from the heat. Add a few drops (typically 3-5 drops) of your chosen essential oil to the hot water.
Carefully lean over the pot, drape a towel over your head and the pot to trap the steam, and breathe deeply for several minutes to inhale the aromatic vapors, which can help relieve nasal congestion and other respiratory issues.
Lotions & Creams
12 drops to each 30 ml of natural, unfragranced lotion or cream.
You can make your own face cream with our neutral face cream as a base. For a 2% (adults) dilution use 40 drops in this 100 ml cream base.
For elderly and children use 20 drops (1%) in 100ml of cream.
Massage oil (for body)
12 drops to each 30 ml of carrier oil.
For elderly and children use 6 drops per 30ml of carrier oil.
Pillows
Place 1-3 drops of essential oil on the corner or underside of a pillow away from the eyes.
Room sprays
As room purifier: 10-20 drops per 475 ml of water.
As a general fragrance: 8-10 drops per 475 ml of water.
Scalp treatments
Add 6 drops in 15 ml of Jojoba oil or aloe vera gel. Shake well. Use 2-3 drops of your prepared blend for each application. Massage into your scalp. Alternatively, simply add the essential oil to a bottle of final rinse water after washing the hair.
Shampoos
5-10 drops in 100ml.
Essential oils can be added to any unscented shampoo that is composed of organic natural ingredients.
Showers
1-5 drops.
First, complete your usual washing routine. After that, apply a few drops of essential oil onto a washcloth or sponge and briskly rub it over your body while standing under the shower's running water. Inhale deeply through your nose to enjoy the aromatic steam, being careful to avoid applying the oil on your face and sensitive areas.
Sprays & Mists for Face and Body
For body: 10-20 drops to each 475 ml of water or hydrosol.
For face: 2-5 drops to each 240 ml of water or hydrosol.
Add the essential oil to warm water or hydrosol. Shake thoroughly, pour through an unbleached paper coffee filter, and place in a spray bottle. Cool before using.
Shake before each use.
Keep eyes closed when spraying the face.
Washes
15-32 drops in 240 ml of warm water.
A wash is a prepared mixture for washing infected areas such as cuts, grazes, and wounds.
Mix the essential oils and water together in a bottle and shake well. Keep it stored in the fridge for no longer than 14 days. Shake before each use.
Aromatherapy's top notes:
Aromas categorized as top notes are typically fresh and light with a sharp scent. They evaporate very quickly and possess antiseptic properties. These qualities make them uplifting for the mood and emotions, ideal for times when you need a quick energy boost. Top notes are also excellent for purification, such as when you're dealing with a cold. Consider each oil's unique properties when selecting which ones to use in a blend.
Examples of typical top notes include:
Citrus oils:
- Bergamot
- Lemon
- Lemongrass
- Orange
- Neroli
- Petitgrain
Mint oils:
- Peppermint
- Spearmint
Fresh woody oils:
- Eucalyptus
- Tea Tree
- Pine
These top notes are perfect for enhancing your blends with their vibrant and cleansing effects.
Understand the Notes of Scents
In aromatherapy, the scent of an oil is often referred to as a "note." The secret behind a truly great fragrance is finding the perfect balance between the notes. Aromatherapy is about scents, and with practice, you will be able to recognize an oil's fragrance even if you might not know which plant the oil comes from. For example, you will be able to distinguish between citrus and floral scents or woody and minty fragrances. The scent is determined by the chemicals an oil contains. Because oils that smell alike often contain the same chemicals, they typically have similar properties.
Oils are categorized into so-called base, middle, and top notes. Knowing an oil's note is important when blending oils. A good blend—like most perfumes—normally contains a mix of all three notes, where the ratio between them varies depending on what the blend is used for. Additionally, an oil can contain more than one note—for example, ylang-ylang contains traces of all three notes and is often considered the perfect fragrance.
When creating a new fragrance, whether it's for a perfume or an aroma diffuser, you should use between 4-7 oils per blend. First, decide what type of blend you want to create, such as a refreshing one, and then choose notes with these characteristics to make up the main content of the blend. Dissolve the mixture in a carrier oil if you want to use it on the skin (12 drops in 30 ml of carrier oil).
| Blend | Top note | Middle note | Base note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refreshing | 5 drops | 4 drops | 1 drop |
| Relaxing | 1 drop | 6 drops | 3 drops |
| Sensual | 1 drop | 4 drops | 5 drops |
| Balancing | 2 drops | 5 drops | 3 drops |
| Energizing | 8 drops | 1 drop | 1 drop |
LAURACEAE PLANT FAMILY
The Lauraceae family, primarily composed of evergreen trees and shrubs, thrives in tropical and warm climates across the globe, playing a pivotal role in tropical forest ecosystems. These plants are renowned for their strong aromatic presence, a clear sign of their vibrant etheric activity. They're loaded with essential oils in their leaves, wood, and bark, which serve as natural deterrents against parasites and predators. For example, the wood from a camphor tree (*Cinnamomum camphora*) can contain up to 5% crude essential oil, with a single tree yielding as much as 3 tons of oil.
These aromatic qualities make Lauraceae species highly valued both as spices and for medicinal purposes. Their fragrant wood is sought after for crafting insect-repellent furniture. However, the popularity of certain species like rosewood (*Aniba rosaeodora*) for their timber or essential oil has led to overexploitation, pushing them towards endangerment.
The fruits of Lauraceae plants are typically drupes, which can be either edible or used to produce vegetable oils. The avocado (*Persea americana*), for instance, offers a fruit that is not only low in sugar but also rich in proteins, fats, and essential vitamins like A, B, C, D, and E. Essential oils derived from this family, including those from cinnamon bark and leaves, *Litsea cubeba*, and rosewood, are integral to holistic health practices. Other notable oils include camphor, cassia, bay laurel (*Laurus nobilis*), ravensara, sassafras, and ravintsara, each bringing its unique benefits to the aromatic and medicinal toolkit.
Ravintsara Blends Well With These Essential Oils
Bay laurel, bergamot, black pepper, cardamom, cedarwood, cypress, eucalyptus radiata, fragonia, frankincense, geranium, ginger, hyssop, lavender, lavender spike, lemon, manuka, myrtle, niaouli, oregano, palmarosa, ravensara (ho wood), rosemary, tea tree, thyme linalol
The Main Chemical Composition of Ravintsara Essential Oil
Ravintsara essential oil, which is steam-distilled from the leaves of the Cinnamomum camphora tree, is renowned for its high content of 1,8-cineole, also known as eucalyptol. This key component is largely responsible for the oil's clear, refreshing aroma and its therapeutic properties.
1. 1,8-Cineole (Eucalyptol): This compound typically constitutes about 50-60% of the oil’s composition. It is known for its respiratory benefits and ability to help clear nasal passages and relieve congestion.
2. α-Terpineol: Present in smaller amounts, α-terpineol contributes to the oil’s soothing and antimicrobial properties, making it beneficial for skin care and immune support.
3. α-Pinene and β-Pinene: These monoterpene compounds add to the oil's fresh, piney aroma and are known for their anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects.
4. Sabinene: Another component found in lower concentrations, sabinene has antioxidant and antimicrobial activities which can aid in general wellness and skin health.
5. Limonene: This contributes a slight hint of citrus to the aroma and offers strong antioxidant properties, which help in combating oxidative stress.
6. Linalool: Though in minor quantities, linalool adds a floral touch to the oil’s profile and is valued for its calming and anti-anxiety effects.
The specific chemical profile of Ravintsara essential oil can vary slightly based on geographic location, climate, and distillation techniques, but its high 1,8-cineole content is a consistent and defining feature. This composition makes Ravintsara a particularly effective choice in aromatherapy for promoting respiratory health, boosting immunity, and supporting mental clarity.
What is a Chemotype in Essential Oils?
Chemotypes in essential oils refer to the different chemical compositions that can occur in the same plant species due to variations in their growing conditions, harvest times, or geographical locations. These variations lead to the production of essential oils with distinct chemical profiles, each possessing unique therapeutic properties. Understanding chemotypes is crucial for aromatherapy and medicinal applications, as the efficacy and safety of the oils can vary significantly based on their chemical makeup.
Here's a breakdown of what defines a chemotype and why it matters:
1. Genetic and Environmental Influences: A chemotype is often influenced by the plant's environment, such as altitude, climate, and soil composition, as well as genetic factors. These variables can affect which chemical compounds are predominant in the oil.
2. Chemical Composition: Each chemotype of an essential oil will have a dominant chemical compound or set of compounds that characterize it. For example, Rosemary essential oil can be found in several chemotypes, such as cineole, camphor, and verbenone, each named after its principal component, which dictates its therapeutic properties and uses.
3. Therapeutic Properties: The presence of different chemical compounds means that each chemotype can be more effective for different health concerns. For instance, the cineole chemotype of Rosemary is excellent for respiratory issues due to its expectorant properties, whereas the camphor chemotype is more suited for pain relief and circulatory problems.
4. Safety and Application: Some chemotypes may be safer or more appropriate for certain applications than others. For example, an essential oil chemotype high in ketones might be more neurotoxic and thus used with more caution, particularly around children or pregnant women.
Understanding chemotypes allows us to choose the most appropriate and effective essential oil for specific therapeutic outcomes, ensuring both safety and efficacy in their applications.
Ravintsara is Safe to Diffuse around Dogs
Pet Safe
If you have dogs in the house, these are the recommendations on how to diffuse your essential oils in a safe way: only use 3-4 drops of a particular essential oil in a water based aroma diffuser (UltraSonic).
Use no more than 4-6 drops total if using more than one essential oil, or use the amount in the diffuser recipes.
Be sure your aroma diffuser is in an area where your pet cannot knock it over. Always diffuse in an open area with the door open so your dog can leave the room if desired.
If your dog is sensitive to an oil you are diffusing, stop diffusing and get your dog outside for some fresh air. Contact your veterinarian if you are concerned.
Ravintsara vs. Ravensara: Key Differences and Uses
Ravintsara (Cinnamomum camphora) and Ravensara (Ravensara aromatica) are two distinct essential oils that are often confused due to their similar names, but they come from different plants and have different properties.
Botanical Source
Ravintsara (Cinnamomum camphora): Derived from the leaves of the camphor tree, which is native to Madagascar. It contains high levels of 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), which gives it potent respiratory and antiviral properties.
Ravensara (Ravensara aromatica): Extracted from the leaves of the Ravensara tree, also native to Madagascar, but it has a different chemical profile, including methyl chavicol (estragole) or limonene, depending on the specific chemotype.
Aroma
Ravintsara: Has a fresh, clean, and slightly medicinal scent, often compared to eucalyptus, due to the high cineole content.
Ravensara: Offers a more herbal, slightly fruity, and spicy aroma, which is warmer and more comforting.
Primary Uses
Ravintsara: Best known for its respiratory support, antiviral, and immune-boosting properties. It's commonly used for colds, flu, coughs, sinus congestion, and viral infections.
Ravensara: While also antiviral, it is more valued for its antifungal and pain-relieving properties. It’s often used for muscle pain, joint inflammation, and to combat fungal infections.
Safety
Ravintsara: Generally considered very safe, even for children and sensitive skin, due to its mild nature.
Ravensara: Needs to be used with more caution, especially varieties rich in methyl chavicol, which can be more irritating and should be diluted properly before use.
Conclusion
Ravintsara is the go-to oil for respiratory issues, immune support, and antiviral purposes, with a gentle, eucalyptus-like aroma.
Ravensara is more appropriate for pain relief, fungal infections, and certain viral conditions, with a spicier, more complex aroma.
Their distinct properties make them suitable for different therapeutic applications, though they both have antiviral capabilities.
Storage
Essential oils are sensitive to UV: always keep them in their original bottles (amber glass with codigoutte).
We advise you to store them in a cool place without light after opening.
For your mixtures, cosmetic and culinary preparations, always use a new bottle to avoid interactions.
Disclaimer
This information is intended to educate and inform, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or veterinarian before starting any regime with Essential Oils.
