Spikenard Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Nardostachys jatamansi

A native species to the mountainous regions of northern India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sikkim, at elevations between 11,000 and 17,000 feet, Spikenard is a tender aromatic herb that typically only reaches a height of 3 feet. A member of the Valerian family, it has many similar medicinal properties to that of Indian Valerian root.

Rare and precious, this essential oil is steam distilled from the dried 'rootlets' of Spikenard plants wild grown in Nepal.This Spikenard essential oil has a green, moderately powerful medicinal and herbaceous top note, slightly spiced and sweet middle notes of clove and ginger with deep, rich earth, wet wood and dried leaf undertones.

Spikenard essential oil blends well with: Pine, Lavender, Patchouli, and Vetiver oil.

Considered a holy essence, in ancient Egyptian, Hebrew, and Hindu civilizations, Spikenard essential oil was reserved for use by kings, priests and high initiates. In this vein it was used as and aid in spiritual release, for its sedative effects, as treatment for nausea, flatulence, cervical infections and conjunctivitis.

The best women perfumers of ancient Greece and the famous 'ungentarii' of Rome used Spikenard oil to create one of the most renowned perfumes and wine flavoring agents of the time called 'nardinum'.

Antibacterial, Antifungal, Anti-inflammatory, Antispasmodic, Antipyretic, Carminative, Deodorant, Diuretic (mild), Laxative, Sedative, Stimulant (digestive), Tonic (neurological and circulatory). (See Definitions.)

Psycho-spiritual:

• Promotes relaxation
• Effective treatment for insomnia
• Stabilizing and emotionally balancing
• Effective against nervous tension and anxiety
• Comforting and grounding
• May help in searches for faith and acceptance of being
• Instills focus and devotion to a chosen path

Circulatory System:

• Regulates (and calms) heartbeat
• Stimulates circulation in extremities

Dermatological:

• Aids with rashes
• Reduces inflammation
• Balances dry skin on the scalp (dandruff)

Digestive System:

• Aids with nausea
• Alleviates constipation
• Calms intestinal and stomach cramping

Topical:

• To employ Spikenard's reputed sedative effects: apply neat (undiluted) or in a carrier oil to the chest and solar plexus.
• The oil can also be added to many carrier oils for use on the epidermis
• To assist with dandruff, add a few drops to shampoo or conditioner before application.

Spikenard essential oil is considered non-toxic, a non-irritant and non-sensitizing. If pregnant or under a doctor's care, consult a physician. Individuals with epilepsy are advised against using this oil.