Derived from a plant known as “Clove nutmeg” is an essential oil referred to as Ravensara Oil. This oil is extracted from a plant belonging to the “Ravensara aromatica” species within the plant kingdom. Furthermore, this oil is extracted from leaves of a plant using the “steam distillation” process. The plant from which this oil is obtained is mainly found on the island of Madagascar located on the east coast of Africa. In addition, this oil has been used within the Madagascarian society for centuries in treatment of various infections.
A. Chemical constituents of Ravensara Oil:
This oil is extracted from the leaves of a plant known “Clove nutmeg” belonging to the “Ravensara aromatica” species within the plant kingdom. In addition, this oil mainly comprises of organic compounds such as alpha pinene, delta carene, caryophyllene, germacreme, limonene, linalool, methyl chavicol, methyl eugenol, sabinene and terpineol.
B. The uses and benefits of Ravensara Oil:
There are a number of health related benefits that an individual can gain by using this oil. However, one should also consider the adverse reactions or side effects reported from its use:
1. Analgesic:
This oil when used helps in relieving pain caused by headaches, sprains etc, and thereby serves as an analgesic.
2. Antiseptic:
This oil also exhibits an “antiseptic” property and therefore when used helps in the treatment of wounds by destroying disease causing microbes.
3. Antifungal:
This oil comprises of an “antifungal” property so when used helps in inhibiting the growth of fungus, and in turn prevents fungal infection.
4. Antidepressant:
This oil is also capable of suppressing depression when used, and thereby serves as an antidepressant.
5. Aphrodisiac:
This oil also serves as an “aphrodisiac” by stimulating sexual desire in an individual.
C. The adverse effects of Ravensara Oil:
There is one major adverse effect that may occur on using this oil. It is as follows:
The use of this oil can severely affect pregnancy, and hence pregnant women must avoid using it.
