Mentha citrata / Bergamot / Lamiaceae (Mint family)

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This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Michelia champaca / Champaca / Magnoliaceae (Magnolia Family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Champaka, Champak, Champac, Champa, Sampige, Shamba.

Description

Michelia champaca is an evergreen tree, native to South and Southeast Asia. It is best known and cultivated for its strongly fragrant yellow or white flowers. The flowers are used in Southeast Asia for several purposes. They are floated in bowls of water to scent the room, as a fragrant decoration for bridal beds, and for garlands and hair ointments. The flower is the main scent present in the commercial "joy" perfume, and is sometimes commonly called the "joy perfume tree".

Scent

Champaca has an intense, intoxicating, sweet, floral aroma that acts as a fragrant magnet. On warm humid nights, the scents can easily be enjoyed several hundred feet away. Even just driving by in your car, you will notice the scent immediately.

Aromatic Properties

Champaca emits a unique warm fragrance which promotes a peaceful state, reducing stress and allowing one to relax and breathe easily. It is especially useful for moments of tranquil contemplation. Champaca's nature is to remind us of the Divine in all things.

Contents

The essential oil of Champaca contains 1-Linalol, Eugenol, Methyl-Eugenol, Methyl- and Ethyl-Ethers. It is one of the most expensive in the world because it requires many flowers to produce.

Synergic Combinations

Blends well with Rose, Frangipani, Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Neroli, Sandalwood and other floral scents.

Historical

Champaca is an important flower in many Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and India. It is used in Ayurveda, ceremonies and massages, and is often planted near temples. It is considered sacred to the god Vishnu. In Bali the flowers are put in water, which is used in house cleansing and praying rituals. An extract of the flowers is used in perfumes, incense sticks, aromatherapy, cosmetics, soaps, food flavors. All parts of the plant are used in alternative medicine for a variety of ailments.

Plant Description

Champaca is a tree related to Magnolia. It has alternate, lanceolate leaves to over 20 cm long that are slightly curved. The flowers are fragrant, a mustard yellow colour, and in each flower the ovaries are free from one another. The central stalk or receptacle elongates and bears the developing fruits along it. When fully developed each individual fruit is about 2.5 cm long, with a reddish tinge and whitish pustules; this follicle opens to release orange-red seeds.

Related Products

Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata)
Sandalwood (Santalum album)

Cocos nucifera / Coconut / Arecaceae (Palm family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Description

The Coconut is the largest seed known and it is part of the Coconut Palm. It is grown throughout the tropical world, for decoration as well as for its many culinary and non-culinary uses; virtually every part of the coconut palm has some human uses. Coconut oil is extracted from the meat of the coconut. It is used in many foods and cosmetic products, as well as in natural remedies, both externally and internally. There are different types of coconut oil including virgin, refined, hydrogenated and fractionated. The virgin coconut oil has the best flavor and the most health benefits.

Contents

100g Coconut meat contain about 15g carbohydrates, 3g protein and 34g fat.
Coconut oil contains predominantly medium chain triglycerides, with roughly 92% saturated fatty acids, 6% monounsaturated fatty acids, and 2% polyunsaturated fatty acids. Of the saturated fatty acids, coconut oil is primarily 44.6% lauric acid, 16.8% myristic acid a 8.2% palmitic acid and 8% caprylic acid, although it contains seven different saturated fatty acids in total. Its only monounsaturated fatty acid is oleic acid while its only polyunsaturated fatty acid is linoleic acid.(2)

Historical

The origins of this plant are the subject of controversy, with most authorities claiming it is native to South Asia (particularly the Ganges Delta), while others claim its origin is in northwestern South America. Fossil records from New Zealand indicate that small, coconut-like plants grew there as long as 15 million years ago. Even older fossils have been uncovered in Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Kerala (Kerala means "land of coconut palms"), Maharashtra, (India) and the oldest known so far in Khulna, Bangladesh. The fruit is light and buoyant and presumably spread significant distances by marine currents. Fruits collected from the sea as far north as Norway have been found to be viable.(1)
The English name coconut, first mentioned in English print in 1555, comes from the Spanish and Portuguese word coco, which means "monkey face." Spanish and Portuguese explorers found a resemblance to a monkey's face in the three round indented markings or "eyes" found at the base of the coconut.
On the Nicobar Islands of the Indian Ocean, whole coconuts were used as currency for the purchace of goods until the early part of the twentieth century. In Sanskrit, the coconut palm is known as kalpa vriksha, meaning "tree which gives all that is necessary for living," because nearly all parts of the tree can be used in some manner or another. The coconut fruit has many food uses for its water, milk, meat, sugar, and oil. It also functions as its own dish and cup. The husk was burned for fuel by natives, but today a seed fibre called coir is taken from the husk and used to make brushes, mats, fishnets, and rope. A very potent fermented toddy or drink is also made from the coconut palm's sap. Coconut oil, a saturated fat made from dried coconut meat, is used for commercial frying and in candies and margarines, as well as in non-edible products such as soaps and cosmetics.(3)
Several Philippine proverbs demonstrate the usefulness of this species:
"If you could count the stars, then you could count all the ways the coconut serves us."
"He who plants a coconut tree, plants vessels and clothing, food and drink, a habitation for himself, and a heritage for his children."

Plant Description

The coconut palm is a long-lived plant that may live as long as 100 years; it has a single trunk, 20-30 m tall, its bark is smooth and grey, marked by ringed scars left by fallen leafbases. The leaves, from 4 to 6 m long, are pinnate; they consist of linear-lanceolate, more or less recurved, rigid, bright green leaflets. The inflorescences, arising at leaf axils and enveloped by a carinate spathe, are unbranched spadices; female flowers are borne basally, male flowers at apex. Flowers bear lanceolate petals, 6 stamens and an ovary consisting of 3 connate carpels. Cross pollination, either anemophilous or entomophilous, occurs. Its fruit, as big as a man’s head and 1-2 kg in weight, is a drupe with a thin, smooth, grey-brownish epicarp, a fibrous, 4-8 cm thick, mesocarp and a woody endocarp; as it is rather light, it can be carried long distances by water while keeping its germinability for a long time.
Although it takes up to a year for coconuts to mature, the trees bloom up to thirteen times a year. Fruit is constantly forming, thus yielding a continuous harvest year-round. An average harvest from one tree runs about 60 coconuts, with some trees yielding three times that amount.

References

(1) Coconut, Wikipedia
(2) Coconut Oil, Wikipedia
(3) Coconut History, by Peggy Towbridge Filippone, About.com

Articles

Any information provided about products on this website, including any links to external websites, is purely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and should never be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the products.

Coconut Oil and its Wonderful Health Benefits
Coconut Research Center

Lemongrass / Cymbopogon citratus / Poaceae (Grass Family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Cymbopogon citratus, Andropogon citratus var. Citronella grass, Erva-cidreira, Fever grass, Khawi, Lemongrass, Limonaria, Malojillo, Ning meng cao, Pasto cedron, Pasto-limon, Pirhe ghaans, Remon gurasu, Remonsou, Sa, Sera, Serai, Sereh, Ta khrai, Tanglad, Te de limon, Verveine des Indes, West Indian Lemongrass, Xiang mao cao, Zacate-limon.

Description

Lemongrass is widely used as a herb in Asian and Caribbean cooking. It has a citrus flavour and can be dried and powdered, or used fresh. Lemongrass is commonly used in teas, soups, and curries. It is often used as a tea in African countries. Studies(1) suggest that usual consumption of Lemongrass as traditional foodstuff in a normal diet helps maintain heart health and normal blood pressure, contributes to the resistance against health precarious microorganisms, helps to support the digestion and contributes to physical well-being. Lemongrass contains naturally occurring antioxidants.

Scent

Fresh and Lemon-like, with a hint of Rose fragrance.

Aromatic Properties

The fragrance is strengthening, uplifting, refreshing, deodorant.

Contents

The essential oil of Lemongrass (0.2 to 0.5% in "West Indian Lemongrass oil") consists mainly of citral. Citral is a mixture of two stereoisomeric monterpene aldehydes. Further terpenoids in Lemongrass oil are nerol, limonene, linalool and alpha-caryphyllene. The content of myrcene is low, but still enough to make the oil susceptible to oxidative polymerization.
Active Constituents: Stereoisomeric monterpene aldehydes; trans isomer geranial (40-62%), cis isomer neral (25-38%), nerol, limonene, linalool, beta-caryphyllene, C. flexuosus, alcohols (20-30% cotronellol, geranoil), aldehydes (15% geranial, 10% neral, 5% citronellal), myrecene, dipentene, nerol, citronellol, farnesol, linalooletc, geraniol, Citral a, Citral b, furfural, isovaleraidehyde, citronellal, decylaldehyde, farnesal, diacetyl, methyl heptenone.

Synergic Combinations

Blends well with Basil, Cedarwood, Coriander, Geranium, Jasmine, Lavender and Tea Tree. Lemongrass oil is also mixed with Virgin Coconut Oil to produce the so called "Negros Oil" used in aromatherapy.

Historical

In traditional medicine, Lemongrass is usually given in the form of a tea or foot bath made from the fresh herb, from which the patient additionally benefits by inhaling the fragrance. Lemongrass is widely used as a spice in Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and on the Indonesian islands. In Thailand, finely ground fresh lemon grass is added to curry pastes. Its fine fragrance goes well with poultry, fish and sea food.
East-Indian Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus), also called "Cochin Grass" or "Malabar Grass", is native to Cambodia, India, Sri Lanka, Burma, and Thailand while the West-Indian Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is assumed to have its origins in Malaysia. While both can be used interchangeably, Cymbopogon citratus is more suited for cooking. In India Cymbopogon citratus is used both as a beneficial herb and in perfumes.

Plant Description

Also known as Citronella grass, Lemongrass is a sweet scented perennial grass of tropical regions. The narrow, ribbon-like, leafy stalks grow in clumps that reach one meter or more in height. The leaves swell slightly at the base to form a fleshy stolon or underground stem. The stem is white and is also edible. The edges of mature leaves are rough and can be quite sharp, it's easy to get cut fingers when harvesting them.

Legal Remarks

This product is illegal or somehow problematic to send to the following countries. Click on the country link for further information.

• Australia

References

(1) Document: NL E4-0-C-REF, Netherlands Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport

Rosa Damascena / Damask Rose / Rosaceae (Rose family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Plumeria spp / Frangipani / Apocynaceae (Dogbane family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

"Kembang Kamboja" in Indonesia, "Temple Tree" or "Champa" in India, "Kalachuchi" in the Philippines, "Araliya" or "Pansal Mal" in Sri Lanka, "Champa" in Laos, "Lantom" or "Leelaawadee" in Thai, "Cacalloxochitl" in Nahuatl.

Description

Plumeria is a small genus of 7-8 species, which are native to tropical and subtropical Americas and have spread to all tropical areas of the world. Plumeria produces strongly fragrant flowers which are used in some expensive perfumes. The flowers are also important symbols in many cultures. Frangipani is known as the Tree of Life in India as a branch cut from the tree will continue to blossom and will grow into a new tree when placed in the ground. Frangipani was a favourite flower of Lord Krishna.

Scent

Frangipani's rich, heady, exotic scent has a deep expansive quality which encourages a sensual almost provocative response.

Aromatic Properties

Frangipani is particularly valued for its emotionally uplifting properties. It soothes many emotional problems and can help those who working through psychological blockages associated with love and sexual fulfilment. It is thought to restore inner peace and harmony which guides one to honour the sacred in intimacy. Frangipani's nature is to remind us of the beauty of our soul's infinite journey.

Synergic Combinations

Blends well with Vetiver, Agarwood, Champaca, Ylang Ylang and Sandalwood.

Historical

Frangipani, also known as Plumera, is one of the most delightful members of the Apocynacea or Dogbane family. Its delicate, silken flowers appear in a myriad of variation and its enchanting fragrance can be described as the mother of all perfumes - it is nectar for the Gods. In India, Bali and other tropical countries it is indeed held sacred and present at every ceremony. But most of all it is sacred to Krishna. Frangipani trees are frequently planted in temple grounds, which has earned them the name "Pagoda trees". In India, they are also often planted near graves and revered as a "Tree of Life" that symbolizes the eternal life of the soul. The Maya of Central America also hold this tree sacred. The red and white varieties represent the sun and the moon respectively. Shamans use the flower water of Frangipani as an offering to the Gods. In Mexico, the Nahuatl (Aztec language) name for this plant is "cacalloxochitl" which means "crow flower." It was used for many medicinal purposes such as salves and ointments.
In several Pacific islands, such as Tahiti, Fiji, Hawaii, Tonga and the Cook Islands Plumeria is used for making leis. In modern Polynesian culture, it can be worn by women to indicate their relationship status - over the right ear if seeking a relationship, and over the left if taken.
Frangipani received its name from a perfume invented by the Marquis Frangipani, Marechal des Armees of Louis XIII of France. It was composed of every spice known until Plumeria (Frangipani) was discovered. The scent of Frangipani was the perfect perfume, a million times better than all other scents put together. Henceforth, the perfume was made from Frangipani and the tree was named after the Marquis.

Plant Description

Plumeria is related to the Oleander, Nerium oleander, and both possess poisonous, milky sap, rather similar to that of Euphorbia. Each of the separate species of Plumeria bears differently shaped leaves and their form and growth habits are also distinct. The leaves of P. alba are quite narrow and corrugated, while leaves of P. pudica have an elongated oak shape and glossy, dark green color. P. pudica is one of the everblooming types with non-deciduous, evergreen leaves. Another species that retains leaves and flowers in winter is P. obtusa.
Plumeria flowers are most fragrant at night in order to lure sphinx moths to pollinate them. The flowers have no nectar, and simply dupe their pollinators. The moths inadvertently pollinate them by transferring pollen from flower to flower in their fruitless search for nectar.
Plumeria species are easily propagated by taking a cutting of leafless stem tips in Spring and allowing them to dry at the base before inserting them into soil. They are also propagated via tissue culture both from cuttings of freshly elongated stems and aseptically germinated seed.(1)

References

(1) Plumeria, Wikipedia

Related Products

Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata)
Champaca (Michelia champaca)

Jasminum officinale / Jasmine / Oleaceae (Olive family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

True Jasmine, Jessamine (the name is derived from the Persian "Yasmin"), common White Jasmine, Poets Jasmine, Jasminum grandiflorum, Jasminum affine.

Description

The Common White Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) is a native of Northern India and Persia however in the centre and south of Europe it is thoroughly acclimatized. In Asia, flowers are stringed together to make garlands. The flowers are held sacred to Lord Vishnu and are used as votive offerings in Hindu religious ceremonies.
It is a vigorous sweetly scented, summer flowering climber that produces fragrant white flowers. The flowers are picked soon after opening each morning and used fresh, for oil extraction. A single Jasmine vine can perfume an entire room or garden. The flower oil extracted from the Jasmin is commonly used in high-grade perfumes and cosmetics, such as creams, oils, soaps, and shampoos.

Mimulus lewisii / Musk / Phrymaceae (Lopseed family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Cestrum nocturnum / Night Queen / Solanaceae (Nightshade family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Citrus sinensis / Orange / Rutaceae (Rue family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Nelumbo nucifera / Sacred Lotus / Nymphaeaceae (Water Lily family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Bunga Telpok, East Indian Lotus, Egyptian Lotus, Fève d'Egypte, Hasu, Kamal, Lian, Lin Ngau (China, Taiwan), Loto Sagrado, Lotus Root, Lotus Sacré, Nelumbium, Oriental Lotus, Renkon, Rosa del Nilo, Sacred Lotus, Sacred Water Lily, Teratai, Teratai/Seroja (Malay).

Description

Nelumbo nucifera, the Sacred Lotus, originates from Indonesia to India and Egypt, also grows abundantly in Surinam. Sacred Lotus possesses great significance in Eastern religion, like Buddhism and Hinduism, signifying vitality and purity. Apart from its majestic beauty, the Lotus is held sacred because of the mystical effects it can produce. It was used as a traditional relaxing and inebriating smoke, similar to a mild cannabis or was brewed into a delightful tea with the idea that it would create a feeling of joy that permeated the mind and body. Sacred Lotus is also often steeped in wine. The flowers are edible, the petals often placed in soups and used as a garnish. The Lotus is the most important object of meditation in Tantric Buddhism.

Scent

Exotic floral aroma with slightly herbaceous and medicinal top notes.

Aromatic Properties

Lotus sweeps you off your feet like a young bride and carries you far and away, to other dimensions, other realms, places of infinite beauty, places of the soul beyond the living. It is excellent for people who are afraid of life, or of death; brings respite to the sick and suffering; is a beautiful meditation and prayer lifting device as well as soothing on the most profound levels.

Historical

The Lotus is one of the world's most celebrated flowers. From time immemorial to the present day, it has always been in folklore, religion and the arts in one form or the other.
Sacred Lotus is much more than a flower for Hindus. It is symbolic of all that is good and beautiful. Scriptures tell us that it first bloomed with the creation of the universe. Over the centuries it has lost none of its allure. Lotus blossoms are sacred to Hindus and Buddhists because of their ancient shamanic function. The plants are commonly grown in Asia for the rhizomes and seeds. This species is intimately linked with the Buddhist religion, symbolizing vitality and purity. Along with its ornamental value, this plant is cultivated for food and traditional Chinese medicine. Virtually all parts of the plant are edible. Its seeds are roasted to make puffs called makhanas. The plant's rhizomes are a source of lotus meal which is rich in starch. A number of wild animals feed on the plant. Fish find refuge in its underwater stalks.
Indians believe that Brahma, creator and God of the universe, sprang from a lotus blossom. And the Buddhist prayer "Om! Mani padme hum!" translates as "Oh!, the jewel of the lotus flower!" The term lotus is applied in general to several species of plants. About 100 lotus species are found in temperate regions of Asia, Africa, Europe and North America. The pink and purple coloured variety found in the country and widely used in religion is called Nelumbo nucifera. According to Yoga and Tantra there are seven lotus wheels in the human body. The lotus is the object of meditation in Tantrik Buddhism. The lotus motif has also been extensively used in shrines, art, architecture and sculpture of the Jains. The Ionic order of architecture of the ancient Greeks is an offshoot of the Assyrian and Phoenician forms which have the lotus as their basis.
One of the oldest seeds that have yet been germinated into a viable plant was an approximately 1,300-year-old lotus fruit, recovered from a dry lakebed in northeastern China.

Plant Description

Originally from Indonesia and India, Sacred Lotus was brought to China and Egypt thousands of years ago. From China it was taken to other parts of Asia including Japan and northern Australia. This wonderful plant is a perennial water plant, long grown in Oriental countries both as an ornamental and for its edible rhizomes and seeds. Rhizomes are thick and tuberous and creep in the earth at the bottoms of ponds or slow moving streams. The leaves are nearly round, large and long stemmed. They may float on deep water, but rise high above shallow water. It has large flowers up to 25 cm across and leaves 60 cm across. Both flowers and leaves sometimes grow up to 1.8 m above water. The fruit is an enlarged receptacle, in which the many seeds are embedded.

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Any information provided about products on this website, including any links to external websites, is purely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and should never be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the products.

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Santalum album / Sandalwood / Santalaceae (Sandalwood family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Sandalwood, White Sandalwood, Sandal.

Description

The value of Sandalwood lies in its lovely fragrance. This aspect of the Sandalwood represents the divine qualities found in godly people or Gurmukhs. Being one of the oldest incense materials, Sandalwood has been in use for at least 4,000 years. According to mythology, Sandalwood originally grew only in heaven’s gardens. Temple gates and religious statues are carved from the wood because of this spiritual association and because of the exquisite scent. Sandalwood scent is believed to transform one's desires and maintain a person's alertness while in meditation.

Scent

Sandalwood essential oil provides perfumes with a striking wood base note. Sandalwood smells not unlike other wood scents, except it has a bright and fresh edge with few natural analogues. When used in smaller proportions in a perfume, it is an excellent fixative to enhance the head space of other fragrances.

Aromatic Properties

Sandalwood is balancing and stimulating to all of the Yin meridians in the body. It can be used for protection. It stimulates greater concentration in any activity. Sandalwood fragrance is believed to bring about calmness and serenity. Some traditional uses: to lift melancholy, enhance meditation, heal the skin, help breathing, for calming and reducing stress, restful sleep. Emotional profile: to relieve possessiveness, lack of forgiveness, cynicism, insecurity, loneliness, nightmares, dwelling on the past.
It is said that individuals who use any form of touch to heal will increase their ability to channel energies through the hands by anointing the palms with a drop of sandalwood oil.

Contents

Chemical constituents: 3% to 6% essential oil, resin, tanins. The essential oil contains high amounts of alpha- and beta-santalol.

Synergic Combinations

Blends well with: Cypress, Frankincense, Lemon, Myrrh, Ylang Ylang, Patchouli, Spruce

Historical

In Hinduism, sandalwood is often used for rituals or ceremonies. Its use as an embalming paste is used in temples on idols. A vast majority of hindus wear a small mark of this paste on their forehead right above the middle of the eyes. It is supposed to keep cool the body and the mind. Sandalwood is considered in alternative medicine to bring one closer with the divine. Sandalwood essential oil, which is very expensive in its pure form, is used primarily for Ayurvedic purposes. It is said to have been used for embalming the corpses of princes in Ceylon since the 9th century. In Buddhism, Sandalwood are considered to be of the Padma (lotus) group and attributed to the Bodhisattva Amitabha. Sandalwood scent is believed to transform one's desires and maintain a person's alertness while in meditation. Sandalwood is also one of the more popular scents used for incense used when offering incense to the Buddha. Sandalwood, along with agarwood, is the most popular and commonly used incense material by the Chinese and Japanese in worship and various ceremonies. It is also used extensively in Indian incense, religiously or otherwise. Firekeeping priests, who have maintained sacred fires for centuries, accept Sandalwood twigs from Zoroastrian worshippers as their contribution for sustaining the fire.
Sandalwood oil is used in rituals for converting to Wicca.

Plant Description

It is a small evergreen tree with slender drooping branches, the sapwood is white and odourless, the heartwood yellowish brown and strongly scented. Leaves elliptic lanceolate, sub-acute petioles 1-1.3 cm long slender, flowers brownish red, inodourous, in terminal and axillary cymes shorter than leaves. The fruit is a drupe.

References

Database on Medicinal Plants Used in Ayurveda: Vol.3., Central Council for Research in Ayurveda and Siddha (Govt. of India)

Articles

Any information provided about products on this website, including any links to external websites, is purely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and should never be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the products.

Santalum album - Wikipedia