Description

Amyris (West Indian sandalwood)

Origin and background

Amyris balsamiferais known as the West Indian sandalwood, but it is not quite the same as sandalwood. Its aroma is reminiscent of the scent of sandalwood, while amyris belongs to a completely different botanical family.

Amyris grows naturally in Central America and northern parts of South America. Its range extends from Florida to Cuba, Jamaica, the island of Hispaniola and Puerto Rico, and from Mexico, Costa Rica and Honduras to northern parts of South America.

It was not until 1886 that Kirkby and Holmes first discovered the differences between amyris and sandalwood. A thorough examination of the evergreen leaves of amyris under a microscope revealed that the two trees were not related. It was then that the original botanical name of this plant was changed from Schimmerelia oleisera to Amyris balsamifera.

Because of its sandalwood-like scent amyris is called the West Indian sandalwood. It is because of this similarity, and because of being more affordable, that it is sometimes used in perfumery and cosmetics instead of the real sandalwood (Santalum album).

The locals call amyris as a candle tree, because due to the high oil content of the wood, it burns independently and with a strong flame like a candle.

Properties

Aromatic properties

The aroma of amyris is soft, woody, sweet and balsamic, with delicate vanilla undertones. Its scent has a calming, relaxing, warming, and soothing effect.

The aroma of amyris essential oil helps relieve anxiety and tension, insomnia and acts as an aphrodisiac, also reducing impotence and frigidity. The soothing properties of amyris also work well in meditation. It also relaxes and softens the muscles.

Healing properties

Amyris essential oil is used to clean wounds, as well as to relieve the symptoms of flu, stomach viruses, coughs, bronchitis, and colds. It is also attributed effective properties in relieving cystitis and vaginal infections.

Amyris essential oil can also be used to treat skin rashes, indigestion, and muscle cramps. It also has a supportive effect on the immune system.

Recommended uses

Topical