Spikenard Essential Oil
Spikenard Essential oil in history
Spikenard, also known as muskroot, is a flowering perennial plant from the Araliaceae family, native to Asia and America. With long serrated leaves, this plant is found in woodlands and thickets. In autumn, the yellow flowers are replaced by dark-purple toned berries.
Traditionally spikenard essential oil was revered in ancient Greek, Roman, and Egypt for its scent. It was used in religious ceremonies, as a perfume, and for medicinal purposes. In the Bible, it was mentioned where Mary used this oil to anoint Jesus’ feet before the last supper. Ancient healers believed this plant could be used to maintain general health and well-being.
Today, spikenard oil is used to treat various health conditions including infections, stress, digestive problems, and insomnia, thanks to its chemical compounds.
Spikenard oil is extracted through steam distillation from the roots of the plant. The oil is pale amber and has a medium consistency with a woody and spicy aroma. More so, it is considered to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, hypotensive, sedative, and anticonvulsant properties.
Spike Lavender Essential oil Uses
1. Relaxes the mind and body
Spikenard essential oil is renowned for its calming and sedating properties. According to research, inhaling spikenard oil helps calm feelings of anxiety, depression, and wards off negative energy. It can also help with restlessness; thus, it can be of great help to people who have insomnia.
For a calming and relaxing effect, add a few drops of this oil to a carrier oil, then apply to the back of the neck or temples. Alternatively, you can add a few drops to a warm bath.
2. Skincare
This oil is excellent for people with dry or acne-prone skin. The antiseptic properties in spikenard oil help remove dead cells leaving your face feeling clean. Furthermore, it promotes a clearer complexion for people suffering from acne. Spikenard oil will leave your skin feeling moisturized and hydrated.
To enjoy the skin benefits, you can add it to your skin regimen by adding a few drops of the oil to your body lotion or face cream.
3. Relieves Inflammation
Spikenard essential oil is beneficial to one’s health as it contains significant anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce any inflammation. Additionally, it is often used in formulations to help reduce pain in the muscle and joints.
Add a few drops of this essential oil to a carrier oil and gently massage the affected areas.
4. Fights Infection
The strong antibacterial properties in spikenard oil make it useful in inhibiting bacterial growth in our bodies. Hence, it can treat dermatitis, athlete’s foot, tetanus, and many others. Moreover, it can be used for wound healing because of its ability to kill bacteria that would render the wound septic.
5. Boosts Immune System
With its powerful antibacterial properties, spikenard essential oil is excellent for immunity. It not only kills bacteria, but it also encourages the body to get the rest it needs to function properly. Spikenard oil is popularly used as a natural remedy for stress and sleep deficiency, contributing factors for lowered immunity. Furthermore, the antioxidant properties help fight free radicals, further boosting the body’s immune system.
6. Relieves Constipation
Spikenard essential oil is believed to be a powerful digestive stimulant that increases gastric motility, effectively treating and preventing constipation. Spikenard oil is effective as a digestive stimulant when blended with a small amount of carrier oil and massaged onto the abdomen.
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