Orris root is a term used for the roots Iris Germanic, Iris Florentine and Iris pallid. Orris root - is the root of some species of iris, grown principally in southern Europe. Once important in western herbal medicine, it is now used mainly as a fixative and base note in perfumery, as well as an ingredient in many brands of gin (perhaps most famously in Bombay Sapphire gin). Orris root must generally be hung and aged for 5 years before it can be used for perfumery.

Orris Root Absolute is made by using solvent extraction of Orris Roots. It is basically used in perfumery and in preparing pharmaceutical preparations. It has scent of its own, but it is usually not detectable when blended with other herbs. Orris root is the root of some species of iris, grown principally in southern Europe. A decorative perennial plant up to 1.5 meter high, with sword-shaped leaves a creeping fleshy rootstock and delicate, highly scented, pale blue flowers.

This absolute oil is prepared from the Orris root which grows in Mediterranean, India, North Africa and different parts of southern Europe. The leaves of Orris roots resembles like a sword and produces the beautiful fragrant flowers of pale blue to whitish color which blooms in early summer. It is also known by the name of Iris & Flag Iris. The extraction process to obtain this oil is very slow and time taking. The one tone roots of Orris can produce just two kg of oil therefore it is highly expensive and having a beautiful flowery fragrance. It has its own aroma but it is usually vanish when it mixes with other herbs. 

Benefit & Uses:  Once important in western herbal medicine, it is now used mainly as a fixative and base note in perfumery, the most widely used fixative for potpourri. Orris is also an ingredient in many brands of gin.

Orris Root is valued in perfumery for its violet-like aroma and its unique fixative qualities. This oil tends to separate making it a bit hard to work with. However, we highly recommended it for those who are looking for this unusual and hard to find oil. It blends best with fixed oils and works excellently in solid perfumes.

In the past it has been used commercially in Tooth Powders, Toothpastes and snuff because of its pleasant smell. It tempers bad breath. The dried root is good for babies to chew on while teething. The carbohydrates, essential oils and tannins work together to produce an astringent, protective and healing effect.

Iris continues to be used in the preparation of essences for soaps, perfumes and skin care products. Orris Root is also used as a fixative in perfumes and pot pour’s.

Orris Root is considered to have a positive effect on the moisture content and elasticity of the skin. Mildly refreshing and astringent, it regulates moisture exchange in the skin which helps the skin to rid itself of dead particles and other toxins.

Superstition has long held that the Orris root can be used to find and hold love. The whole Orris root is carried the powder is added to sachets, sprinkled on sheets, clothing and the body, and around the house.

Its rich floral aroma the perfume manufactures are very keen for it. It is used as a fixative in formulation of various exclusive and alluring perfumes. It is a best medicine for treating the ailments such as coughs and diarrhea. It is also used in the preparation of dental products. 

The Orris roots are also used in tinctures and flavoring the syrups. In ancient Greece and Rome Orris root extensively in perfumery and its medicinal qualities were held in high esteem by Discords. The juice of root was used for cosmetic purposes and the root bruised in wine as employed for dropsy, bronchitis, coughs, hoarseness, chronic diarrhea and congested headaches. In Russia the root was used to make a tonic drink with honey and ginger.

 

Iris is little used medicinally these days, but it still appears in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia as being formerly used in upper respiratory catarrh, coughs and for diarrhea in infants.