Amyris is a genus of flowing plants in the citrus family, Ruaceae the generic name is derived from the Greek word, which means "intensely scented" and refers to the strong odor of the resin. Members of the genus are commonly known as Torch woods because of their highly flammable wood.
The trunks of Amyris species exude elemi, a type of balsam (oleoresin) that contains elemic acids; It is used medicinally and in lacquers. The wood is often used for torches and firewood. Its high resin content causes it to burn brightly and it will burn well even when green.
History
Amyris, a small evergreen tree, is native to Haiti but now grows in parts of Asia, as well as the Caribbean and Central America. It grows to about 12 feet, but it may take 30 years before it begins to produce the essential oils. Amyris oil is commonly found in soaps, often as a replacement for the endangered and more expensive Sandalwood, although the aroma as well as the strength of the two oils is quite distinct.
Locals call the amyrics wood candlewood because of its high oil/resin content. For this reason it is often used for torches or firewood as it burns very brightly even when green.
It is also great for perfumes, soaps and cosmetics, and the oil can be used in varnishes and incense.
Profile
Amyris essential oil commonly referred to as West Indian Sandalwood oil, the Botanical origin of the tree yielding this oil remained obscure until 1886. The main country of origin today is Haiti, where the oil is obtained by steam distillation from broken up wood & branches. The locals call it ‘candle wood’ because of its high oil content; it burns like a candle. It is uses as a torch by fishermen and traders. It also makes excellent furniture wood. The production of this oil has dropped with the passing of time due to adverse climatic conditions in Haiti. Amyris essential oil has been used for wound washes, influenza and childbirth recovery, diarrhea, used also as a room fragrance or mood fragrance, as a cheaper alternative to genuine Sandalwood. Used as a fragrance, fixative or a component of soap fragrance. Limited application in flavoring work, but some used in liquors.
Amyris wood is used to make furniture. It is a cheap substitute for sandal wood and is also used to adulterate sandalwood. It is used as a fixative in soaps and fragrances, and in liqueurs. A species of Amyris is the source of the Balm of Mecca.
Amyris Essential Oil is steam distilled from the wood and twigs of the Amyris or Candlewood tree. In Jamaica and Haiti they use branches as torches because the wood has so rich in essential oil. It is also called East Indian Sandalwood. Amyris can extend the very expensive Sandalwood. Amyris is antiseptic, balsamic, decongestant, emollient, muscle relaxant, sedative, and useful to soothe and soften dry, irritated skin. Used in massage oil or a bath it can ease sore and tired muscles. Diffused it can calm the mind and is often used in meditative blends. Used as a fixative in perfumes.
Amyris essential oil is distilled from the wood of the tropical evergreen Amyris tree found throughout the world. It often referred to as West Indian Sandalwood, though does not possess the same depth and charter as true Sandalwood. Amyris offers a sweet-woody, balsamic aroma with good fixative value, and is often used as a substitute for Sandalwood when a less expensive alternative is required.
Amyris relaxes and calms the mind, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety. It is also said uplift the mood and has an aphrodisiac-like effect when used in small amounts in a blend.
Use: Antiseptic, sedative, improves circulation.
Amyris essential oil, Amyris balsamiferous, historical uses consist of wound wash, influenza, childbirth recovery, diarrhea, used as a room fragrance or mood fragrance, as a cheaper alternative to genuine Sandalwood. Used as a fragrance, fixative or a component of soap fragrance.
Amyris balsamiferous blends well with the following essential oils: lavender, citronella, oak moss, sassafras, and other wood essentials.
Properties - Antiseptic, balsamic, sedative, calming and an aid to stress relief. It has sedative properties and helps during meditation. Muscle relaxant, emollient, soothing agent, stimulant.
Amyris oil is known to have antiseptic and sedative properties. It is a strong anti-inflammatory. The woody, balsamic aroma has been found to relax and calm the nerves, and to help relieve both sexual tension and general stress or irritability. Amyris oil seems to slow the aging process and helps regenerate the skin. For this reason, it is often used in facial creams.
Amyris essential oil is excellent in a diffuser, either alone or mixed with other oils. It is a good fixative for other natural perfumes.