Description
Spikenard essential oil is extracted from Nardostachys jatamansi of the Valerianaceae family and is also known as “false” Indian valerian root.
Spikenard essential oil has a warm, misty, heavy aroma, is pale yellow in color and medium in viscosity.
About Spikenard
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.
It is extracted from the crushed and dried rhizome of the herb by steam distillation and yields 1-3%
The therapeutic properties are anti-inflammatory, anti-pyretic, antiseptic, calmative, sedative, laxative and tonic.
The main chemical components are bornyl acetate, valeranone, jonon, tetramenthyloxatricylodecanol, menthylthymyl-ether and 1,8-cineol.
Precautions and Uses
Spikenard oil has no known contra-indications, but care should be taken as with all oils.
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.
In vapor therapy or diluted in the bath Spikenard oil can help with tension, stress and insomnia.
As blended massage oil, Spikenard essential oil can assist with tension, stress, migraine and insomnia.