Ravintsara
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Cinnamomun camphora ct. 1,8 cineole
BIOTANICAL FAMILY
Lauraceae
COUNTRIES OF ORIGIN
Madagascar
PLANT PART
Leaves
NOTE
Middle
EXTRACTION METHOD
Steam Distilled
AROMA
Refreshing aroma with a camphoraceus and slightly spicy undertone
GC/MS REPORT
Oxides and Monoterpenes: 1,8 cineole (61%); sabinene (13%)
NOTES ON CHEMICAL COMPONENTS
1,8 cineole's known therapeutic properties include: analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, mucolytic, immunostimulant, skin penetration enhancer, and cognition enhancement. Sabinene's known therapeutic properties include: antifungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory.
THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS
Respiratory system - expectorant and mucolytic, helps relieving chest, sinus, and throat infections, including flu, sinusitis, rhinitis, and chronic bronchitis with phlegm and cough. Musculoskeletal system - helps relieve headaches, muscolar aches and pains. Nervous system - immunostimulant with an overall tonic action.
EMOTIONAL/ENERGETIC QUALITIES
Stimulates the mind, promotes alertness; helps relieving mental fog, lethargy, and lack of concentration; boosts self-confidence and willpower.
ADMINISTRATION METHOD
Bath, topical application (diluted), and inhalation
ETNOBOTANY LORE AND ANCIENT PARTICLES
Cinnamomun camphora was introduced from Taiwan as an ornamental tree and now grows in the wild in Madagascar. It is not to be confused with "ravensara" from Ravensara aromatica which is a different plant/oil with possible safety issues because it contains 10-12% of Methyl chavicol—also called estragole; high doses are considered genotoxic, carcinogenic, and hepatotoxic in rats and possibly in humans. This component is also contraindicated for anticoagulant medications and any bleeding disorders. . Confusion between the two species has remained in the availalble historical literature about the plant's therapeutic properties.
SAFETY
Non-toxic and non-irritant but could sensitizing if oxidized; 1,8 cineole can also cause CNS and breathing problems in young children.
DISCLAIMER: The information provided above is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease; these statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Please consult a licensed healthcare specialist for specific medical advice.