Zap those winterbugs! (Ravensara)

Member Name: janharper

Product:	Ravensara
Date:	14/11/01 (71 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: zaps bugs

Disadvantages: hard to find in UK

This oil has a distinct woody aroma that lingers in the air. It is not a very heavy, clinging fragrance though (middle note).

The latin name for this oil (or the plant it comes from) is Ravensara Aromatica. The family name of this plant is Lauraceae. It is important to have this information before purchasing so that you can be sure that you are getting pure, genuine, unadulterated oil.

USES:
++++++

Antibacterial, antinfectious, especially good for bronchitis, asthma and mouth ulcers.

Anti-inflamatoory, particularly good in rhinopharyngitis (affecting nose and pharynx).

Anti-fungal. Especially effective in athletes foot, ring worm and other fungal conditions when blended with teatree oil.

Antiviral, good for shingles, flu and colds.

Detoxifying,

Expectorant to clear the chest, and unblock sinuses.

Insomnia, muscle fatigue.


How to Use:
+++++++++++

Use six drops diluted in vodka or saki (or even milk), in the bath. Soak for at least 20 minutes.

Use as a cream: mix together 7 drops of essential oil and 15 mils of ordinary, good quality body or face cream and use as required.

Use in diffuser for chest conditions.

Blend with a god quality carrier oil which should be vegetable based (wheat, almond, advocado, etc) Don't use mineral oil like baby oil as a carrier because this just sits on the skin, it doesn't soak in.

Blend with other essential oils but don't exceed the total number of drops suggested. For example, six drops are suggested in the bath so the total number of drops (combined) would be six, (not six of each!) Blends well with:

Peppermint, marjoram, rosemary, teatree, eucalyptus, lavender, and all the citrus oils.

Caution:
++++++++

Keep out of eyes and away from mucus membranes,

Do not use undiluted or you may get skin burns,

Do not use more than the sugge
sted number of drops (you can use less though).

Do not take internally.

If using in a burner take proper precautions with regard to the fire safety angle.


Verdict:
+++++++++

It is unusual to get a skin reaction from this oil. It is fairly gentle acting.

This oil is particularly good at treating viral conditions like colds and flu. (Excellent in a warm bath before bed).

It is certainly one the oils that comes into its own during the winter. I find it especially good blended with lemon essential oil for treating colds and flu, as the lemon provides a lift, while the ravensara deals with the bugs.

Although this is a safe and effective oil with many uses, it is not easy to find in shops in the UK. You may need to buy it mail order. It should cost around £10 for 10 mils of good quality essential oil.

Summary: