Information on Spikenard essential oil
Spikenard essential oil is extracted from Nardostachys jatamansi of the Valerianaceae family and is also known as “false” Indian valerian root.
Oil Properties
Spikenard essential oil has a warm, musty, heavy aroma, is pale yellow to brown in color and medium in viscosity.
Origin
Spikenard is a tender aromatic herb with a pungent rhizome root and native to the mountainous regions of northern India, as well as China and Japan.
It is one of the early aromatics used by the ancient Egyptians and is mentioned in the Bible, in Song of Solomon, and in the Book of John where Mary used it to anoint the feet of Jesus.
It was used by wealthy Roman women in perfumes and beauty preparations.
Extraction
This essential oil is extracted from the crushed and dried rhizome of the herb by steam distillation and yields 1-3%.
Chemical composition
Some of the main chemical components are NArdol, Formic acid, α-Selinene, Dihydro-β-ionone, Propionic acid
Precautions
Spikenard oil has no known contra-indications or hazards as of 2014
Therapeutic properties
The therapeutic properties are anti-inflammatory, anti-pyretic, antiseptic, calmative, sedative, laxative and tonic.
For our glossary and explanation of these therapeutic terms, please click here
Uses
This oil can be effective for tension, stress, migraine, nervous indigestion and insomnia.
Due to these effective therapeutic qualities, we use Spikenard oil in our Uplifting and Grounding Spiritual Blend.
It seems to have rejuvenating qualities especially for the mature skin, and can help with allergies, skin inflammations and rashes
Burners and Vaporizers and used in the Bath
In vapor therapy or diluted in the bath it can help with tension, stress and insomnia.
Blended in Massage Oil
As blended massage oil, Spikenard essential oil can assist with tension, stress, migraine and insomnia.
Suggested Dilution Rates
On the skin
Adult:
Face: 0.5% to 1.5%
Body: 1.5% to 3%
Bath: 1.5% to 4%
3 to 24 months:
Face: 0.25% to 0.5%
Body: 0.25% to 0.5%
Bath: Maximum of 0.5%
2 to 6 years:
Face: 0.5% to 1.5%
Body: 0.5% to 2%
Bath: 0.5% to 2%
6 to 15 years
Face: 0.5% to 1.5%
Body: 0.5% to 3%
Bath: 0.5% to 3%
Pregnancy
Face: 0.5% to 1.5%
Body: 0.5% to 2%
Bath: 0.5% to 2%
- When in doubt consult your doctor / medical professional before use.
- Most professionals and/or Aromatherapists will always err on the side of safety when giving advice regarding the use of essential oils and oleo resins during pregnancy.
- Quite a number of Aromatherapists advise that you should avoid all essential oils completely while pregnant, specifically during the first trimester. This is a very safe approach but may not be necessary at all.
Diffusers and Vaporisers
4 to 8 drops
General:
- When using for the first time – Always use the lowest dilution rate and build up slowly to the maximum. Stop using all essential oils on the skin if irritation or allergy occurs.
- Any advice or instruction received from a medical professional ALWAYS supersedes recommendations or advice found on this website. When in doubt consult your doctor / medical professional.
Blends
Although most essential oils blend well with one another, Spikenard oil blends particularly well with Lavender, Lemon, Clary Sage, Neroli, Patchouli and Vetiver.
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