Essential Oil – Basil – .5 fl. oz.

Essential Oil - Basil - .5 fl. oz.

Our organic basil essential oil is a top note steam distilled from Ocimum basilicum. This basil oil is the estragole chemotype which was formerly known as methyl chavicol. It is sometimes known as tropical basil.

Aroma

This top note oil has an earthy, herbaceous, and spicy aroma with prominent notes of licorice. Often basil essential oil will not reflect the familiar aroma of whole fresh basil leaves due to the concentrated nature of certain constituents.

Constituents

Our basil essential oil is mostly made up of estragole, up to 85%. It also can contain up to 8% linalool 6% 1,8-cineole. Estragole is also known as methyl chavicol and can be found in tarragon, anise seed, and fennel essential oils. Linalool is found in a large variety of oils such as ho wood, lavender tea tree, lavender, clary sage, and neroli.

Blending and Uses

There are an endless number of applications for basil oil. Its pungent, warm, herbal aroma lend well to diffuser blends for clearing the air and helping a space to feel fresh, clean, and revitalized. Combine with lemon, bergamot, or lavender for uplifting aromas for your house. Blend with peppermint to help focus and energy while studying or reading.

Basil oil is a popular ingredient in steams used for facials or to support healthy breathing with other oils such as thyme, rosemary, or tea tree. It can be added to facial washes or in serums for occasional blemishes or irritations. You can add basil to massage blends for occasional muscle soreness with vetiver or eucalyptus.

Skin care recipes like lotions, creams, or perfumes are all wonderful ways to enjoy the pungent aroma of basil. For body care, blend basil with nutmeg, black pepper, orange, or neroli. Add basil to deodorant recipes with sage, cedarwood, ginger, or grapefruit for aromatic freshness. This oil is also wonderful in the bath with lemongrass, rosemary, or fennel.

Safety

This oil can cause skin sensitization. Never use essential oils undiluted, in eyes or mucus membranes. Do not take internally unless working with a qualified healthcare practitioner. Keep away from children and pets.

Before using perform a small patch test on your inner forearm or back. Apply a small quantity of diluted essential oil and cover with a bandage. If you experience any irritation use carrier oil or cream to further dilute the essential oil, and then wash with soap and water. If no irritation occurs after 48 hours it is safe to use on your skin. Learn more about using essential oils here.