Our Products #1436954

Botanical Name: Piper nigrum

Origin: Vietnam
Part Used: Dried Fruit
Process: Steam Distillation

Summary: Black Pepper is an important spice whose use, both culinary and medicinal, dates back more than 4000 years. In aromatherapy, Black Pepper is a strong antiviral and antibacterial oil. In perfumery, Black Pepper is quite a tenacious middle note that provides a unique and interesting effect in oriental compositions and when combined in very small amounts with certain florals such as rose, carnation or ylang ylang.
Plant Description: Native to southern areas of India and Vietnam; also grown in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Madagascar and Egypt. Often distilled in the US and Europe. For commercial purposes, plants are best propagated by cuttings grown at the base of trees with rough irregular bark, allowing the woody vines to reach a height of 12-15 feet. The plant has heart shaped leaves and small white flowers arranged on elongated spikes that produce green fruits or berries. When the berries begin to mature and turn red, they are collected, dried in the sun (turning black) and crushed prior to distillation.
Oil Description: The essential oil of Black Pepper is piquant, stimulating and invigorating.
HistoricalTraditional Uses: Black Pepper is one of the oldest known and most important of spices. It was used by the Egyptians in the mummification process. The Romans valued it greatly and imported large quantities from the East. Monks of India, who traveled long distances on foot, ingested a few peppercorns a day to maintain their endurance. Black Pepper was a highly valued commodity along the ancient overland spice routes throughout the Middle Ages. European spice traders eventually found an all-water route to India toward the end of the 15th century, allowing the modern spice trade to flourish.
Applications (Uses and Indications): In aromatherapy, Black Pepper is a strong antiviral and antibacterial oil useful for arthritis, muscular aches and pains, sprains, joint inflammation, catarrh, constipation, colic, diarrhea, nausea, colds, flu, viruses. Inhaling the aroma is useful for mental fatigue. Can also be indicated for loss of appetite and indigestion, and to stimulate circulation. In perfumery, Black Pepper is quite a tenacious middle note that provides a unique and interesting effect in oriental compositions and when combined in very small amounts with certain florals such as rose, carnation or ylang ylang.
Contraindications (Safety and Precautions): Black Pepper essential oil is non-toxic and non-sensitizing but in high concentrations can cause skin irritation; best avoided during pregnancy. This oil interferes with or negates homeopathic treatment do not use both at the same time.
Standard Safety Precautions: Always dilute essential oils before using. Keep essential oils out of the eyes and mucous membranes; in case of contact, DO NOT use water, instead place a drop or two of vegetable oil on a tissue to gently wipe out of eye or off area of contact. In severe cases, seek professional help immediately. Keep out of the reach of children. In case of ingestion, call 911 immediately.
Essential oils are not to be taken internally unless under the direction of a trained and licensed aromatherapist. Know how to safely use essential oils and what oils are to be avoided: that contraindicate homeopathic, prescription and OTC medications; that can trigger skin sensitivities or allergic reactions; during pregnancy and while nursing; that are not to be used by those with a history of epilepsy, diabetes, or other health issues such as high or low blood pressure; that are not to be used before exposure to sunlight; that are to be used with extreme caution or avoided altogether.

Botanical Name: Cedrus deodora
Origin: India
Part Used: Wood
Process: Steam Distillation

Plant Description: Native to high altitudes of the Himalayan Mountains in north-central India, eastern Afghanistan, northern Pakistan, southwestern Tibet and western Nepal. It is grown as a decorative tree in central Europe, the United Kingdom, the Mediterranean region, central China, the west coast of North America, southeastern US, in South Africa and parts of Australia. This is a large evergreen conifer reaching heights of 130-165 feet or more with a trunk of up to 10 feet in diameter. The conical crown has large horizontal limbs with drooping branchlets. The essential oil is distilled locally where in some areas the trees are felled exclusively for this purpose, however, the wood is also durable as lumber for use in construction, but is brittle and not suitable, for example, in furniture manufacturing.
Oil Description: Light yellow-orange to brownish-yellow orange liquid becoming somewhat viscous with age. The aroma of Himalayan Cedarwood is rich with warm camphoraceous topnotes, sweet-woody, tenacious and somewhat balsamic, very similar to Atlas Cedarwood, but without the cat-like muskiness common to Atlas Ceadarwood.

HistoricalTraditional Uses: In Tibet and other Himalayan countries, Himalayan Cedarwood has been used since ancient times for the construction of temples and the landscape architecture around them. The wood of this tree was and still is used for making incense. The ancient Indian sages and their families preferred living in forests of deodar or devaderu trees (trees of the gods). Hindu epics often mention a forest of deodars as being a sacred place. The sages devoted to the Hindu god Shiva used to perform difficult meditation practices in these forests to please Lord Shiva. The deodar tree is also the national tree of Pakistan.
Applications (Uses and Indications): In aromatherapy, Himalayan Cedarwood essential oil is indicated primarily for treating respiratory conditions via inhalation and massage application. It is useful for reducing oily secretions of the skin and scalp when incorporated into skin and hair preparations, and is also indicated for urinary tract infections, hair loss, arthritis, and nervous tension. In perfumery, Himalayan Cedarwood has a tremendous fixative effect and blends well with bergamot, cassie, clary sage, cypress, frankincense, juniper, jasmine, labdanum, neroli, rosemary, vetiver, ylang ylang, and floral and oriental bases.

Contraindications (Safety and Precautions): Himalayan Cedarwood essential oil is non-sensitizing and non-irritating, but is considered by some to be neurotoxic and abortive; best to avoid use during pregnancy.
Standard Safety Precautions: Always dilute essential oils before using. Keep essential oils out of the eyes and mucous membranes; in case of contact, DO NOT use water, instead place a drop or two of vegetable oil on a tissue to gently wipe out of eye or off area of contact. In severe cases, seek professional help immediately. Keep out of the reach of children. In case of ingestion, call 911 immediately.
The FDA has not evaluated the statements on this website. No claims are made as to any medicinal value of this or any products from Ancient Ways Botanicals. The information presented here is for educational purposes of traditional uses and is not intended to prevent, diagnose, treat, or cure any disease. For external use only. You are responsible for understanding the safe application of these products.

Botanical Name: Cinnamomum zeylanicum
Origin: Madagascar
Part Used: Bark
Process: Steam Distillation

Plant Description: Native to Sri Lanka, the Malabar Coast of India, Bangladesh, Seychelles, and Myanmar; also cultivated in South America and the West Indies. Cinnamon comes from a bushy evergreen tree of the tropics that grows to a height of 40-50 feet (but kept to about 6 feet for commercial purposes) with strong branches, shiny green leathery leaves, and thick, scabrous bark. The dried inner bark of the tree shoots are the source of the essential oil and, according to Steffan Arctander, factors such as climate and soil conditions, age and pruning of the trees, and the curing (scraping) of the bark will affect the quality of the bark and the essential oil extracted from it. In addition, some of the volatile materials in cinnamon bark essential oil are water soluble; it is paramount to the quality of the end product that these water soluble components are recaptured by extraction of the distillation waters, requiring expert knowledge of the distillation process, and added back to the steam-distilled oil to ensure outstanding quality. An essential oil from the leaf is also obtained.
Oil Description: Pale to deep yellow somewhat oily liquid with a dry, sweet dusty-warm-spicy aroma, great tenacity and a powerful diffusiveness. The dry note is quite persistent in the dryout and is unique in combination with the sweetness.
HistoricalTraditional Uses: Cinnamon Bark has been used for thousands of years in culinary preparations and was highly regarded as a precious ingredient for making temple incense. It was one of the ingredients collected by the mythical Phoenix for use in the magical fire in which it was reborn. Egyptians of old considered Cinnamon oil good for the feet. Upset stomachs of the ancient Greeks were settled with Cinnamon, and the ancient Romans favored its use in making perfumes. It was first used in 9th century Europe as an ingredient in mulled wine. Resourceful alchemists who turned to thievery in 14th century Europe used Cinnamon and other strongly scented plant material to protect themselves from contracting the Black Death while robbing victims. The Cinnamon industry was monopolized by the East India Company when the British Empire took control of Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) in the 18th century.
Applications (Uses and Indications): In aromatherapy, some sources state that Cinnamon Bark should not be employed; however, highly diluted (fractions of 1%) it has been indicated for poor circulation, tooth and gum maintenance, digestive complaints, nervous exhaustion, and infectious diseases ranging from MRSA to colds and the flu. In perfumery, greatly diluted (fractions of 1%) of Cinnamon Bark essential oil imparts warmth and radiance, and is used in combination with frankincense in oriental-woody bases. It also blends well with balsam of Peru, cardamom, clove, coriander, galbanum, ginger, grapefruit, lavender, mandarin, orange, pine, rosemary, thyme and ylang ylang.
Contraindications (Safety and Precautions): Some sources state that Cinnamon Bark oil should not be used in aromatherapy due to its cinnamic aldehyde content which is often the cause of severe skin sensitization. Cinnamon Bark oil is also a dermal toxin and irritant and can affect mucous members in this manner. It is best avoided during pregnancy (may induce contractions).

Standard Safety Precautions: Always dilute essential oils before using. Keep essential oils out of the eyes and mucous membranes; in case of contact, DO NOT use water, instead place a drop or two of vegetable oil on a tissue to gently wipe out of eye or off area of contact. In severe cases, seek professional help immediately. Keep out of the reach of children. In case of ingestion, call 911 immediately.
The FDA has not evaluated the statements on this website. No claims are made as to any medicinal value of this or any products from Ancient Ways Botanicals. The information presented here is for educational purposes of traditional uses and is not intended to prevent, diagnose, treat, or cure any disease. For external use only. You are responsible for understanding the safe application of these products.

Botanical Name: Laurus nobilis
Origin: Albania
Part Used: Leaves
Process: Steam Distilled
Plant Description: Native to the Mediterranean region, including Spain, Portugal, southern Turkey, northern Syria, and northern Morocco; cultivated in China, Israel, Lebanon, Turkey, the western Balkans, Russia, Italy, Sardinia, and France. Laurus nobilis is a small, sturdy evergreen tree that grows to a height of 65 feet; its creamy yellow flowers produce small shiny black berries. Leaves are long, narrow, dark green, glossy, and leathery that when bruised emit a distinctively pungent and powerful fragrance. This aroma is captured in the essential oil distilled from the leaves.

Oil Description: Pale yellow to very pale olive green or colorless liquid with a fresh, powerfully diffusive spicy-sweet, somewhat medicinal and aromatic-camphoraceous aroma.
HistoricalTraditional Uses: Both the Greeks and the Romans crowned those victorious in competitions with wreaths of Bay Laurel. The ancient Greeks believed that the leaves placed under a pillow would induce dreams of prophecy. In 165 CE, the Greek physician Galen recommended Bay Laurel as a diuretic and liver stimulant. It has long been used in cooking to aid digestion. The North American Miwok tribe of what is now Northern California used fresh Bay Laurel branchlets dipped in water to brush a persons entire aura, including the bottoms of the feet, to cleanse away any negative energy, influences or thoughts before participating in sacred ceremonies. In Greece, church floors were strewn with Bay Laurel leaves, a tradition that still continues.
Applications (Uses and Indications): In aromatherapy, Bay Laurel is indicated for loss of appetite, colic, indigestion, flatulence, chronic bronchitis, osteoarthritis, colds, flu, promoting menstruation, self-doubt, and lack of concentration. Bay Laurels fresh, spicy scent has the ability to stimulate the mind, diminish self-imposed limitations, inspire boldness, and spark ones inner vision. In perfumery, Bay Laurel essential oil is considered a top note that blends well with bergamot and other citrus oils, cardamom and other spice oils, cedarwood, clary sage, cypress, eucalyptus, fir, frankincense, ginger, juniper berry, labdanum, lavender, marjoram, pine, rose, rosemary, and thyme.
Contraindications (Safety and Precautions): Bay Laurel essential oil is relatively non-toxic and non-irritating; it can cause dermal sensitization in individuals with sensitive skin. Due to the possible narcotic properties attributed to its methyl eugenol content, it should be used in moderation (no more than 2% dilution) and not used at all during pregnancy.
Standard Safety Precautions: Always dilute essential oils before using. Keep essential oils out of the eyes and mucous membranes; in case of contact, DO NOT use water, instead place a drop or two of vegetable oil on a tissue to gently wipe out of eye or off area of contact. In severe cases, seek professional help immediately. Keep out of the reach of children. In case of ingestion, call 911 immediately.
The FDA has not evaluated the statements on this website. No claims are made as to any medicinal value of this or any products from Ancient Ways Botanicals. The information presented here is for educational purposes of traditional uses and is not intended to prevent, diagnose, treat, or cure any disease. For external use only. You are responsible for understanding the safe application of these products.

Botanical Name: Eugenia caryophillata
Origin: Madagascar
Part Used: Buds
Process: Steam Distillation
Plant Description: Native to the Maluku Islands, clove trees are cultivated worldwide, especially in the Philippines, Comoros Islands, Zanzibar, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and India; grown for production of essential oil in Madagascar and Indonesia. Clove Bud essential oil comes from a slender evergreen tree that grows to a height of 45 feet, with flower buds appearing at the start of the rainy season. When the unopened buds turn deep red, they are hand-picked or beaten from the trees for drying prior to distillation.
Oil Description: Pale yellow liquid with a warm, sweet-spicy aroma, a fresh, fruity top note and a faint woody undertone.
HistoricalTraditional Uses: Clove Bud has an extensive history of use, for medicinal purposes and as a culinary spice, in Europe from the 4th century BCE and in China from the 3rd century BCE. During the Han Imperial Dynasty of China (206 BCE 220 CE), representatives and diplomats of the court were required to hold cloves in their mouths to freshen their breath when addressing the emperor. During this dynastys rule, diplomatic outreach into Central Asia marked the beginning of the Silk Road trade network that extended to the Roman Empire. It was along this trade route by both land and sea that spices, including cloves, reached the European continent. Hildegard of Bingen (1098-17 September 1179) used clove buds warming effect for a stuffy head, gout, intestinal issues, and hiccoughs. During the Black Plague of the mid-14th century, thieves robbing the deceased victims made use of cloves and other spices and herbs for protection against infection. Rondeletia, a classic 16th century Italian perfume, was composed primarily of cloves and lavender.
Applications (Uses and Indications): In aromatherapy, Clove Bud essential oil is indicated for athletes foot, toothaches, halitosis, indigestion, repelling mosquitoes, intestinal parasites, and respiratory issues. When included in the diet during the last month of pregnancy, clove is said to tone and strengthen the uterus in preparation for childbirth. It is used externally, greatly diluted, for arthritis and muscular aches and pains. When inhaled, Clove Bud instills confidence, trust and motivation, stimulates memory, and helps overcome exhaustion, while its antiseptic and antiviral action is beneficial for fighting off infectious diseases. In perfumery, Clove Bud essential oil is a middle note that blends well with allspice, basil, bergamot, black pepper, cardamom, carnation, cinnamon, citronella, clary sage, geranium, ginger, grapefruit, lavender, lemon, nutmeg, orange, patchouli, peppermint, rose, rosemary ct cineol, sandalwood, vanilla, vetiver, and ylang ylang.
Contraindications (Safety and Precautions): Clove Bud essential oil is generally non-toxic when used in moderation, but can cause skin and mucous membrane irritation, dermatitis, and skin sensitization; avoid repeated application and excessive inhalation, use in low dilution (1% or less). Avoid use if using blood thinner medications. Clove Leaf and Clove Stem essential oils are not recommended for aromatherapy use.
Standard Safety Precautions: Always dilute essential oils before using. Keep essential oils out of the eyes and mucous membranes; in case of contact, DO NOT use water, instead place a drop or two of vegetable oil on a tissue to gently wipe out of eye or off area of contact. In severe cases, seek professional help immediately. Keep out of the reach of children. In case of ingestion, call 911 immediately.
The FDA has not evaluated the statements on this website. No claims are made as to any medicinal value of this or any products from Ancient Ways Botanicals. The information presented here is for educational purposes of traditional uses and is not intended to prevent, diagnose, treat, or cure, any disease. For external use only. You are responsible for understanding the safe application of these products.

Botanical Name: Elettaria cardamomum
Origin: Guatemala
Part Used: Dried fruit
Process: Steam Distillation
Plant Description: Native to Asian subtropics and particularly southern India. Wild and cultivated Cardamom plants grow in India, Sri Lanka, Laos, Guatemala, El Salvador and Central America; the essential oil is distilled primarily in India, Europe, Sri Lanka and Guatemala. Guatemalan Cardamom is regarded as being the highest quality. Much of the spice is grown in the northern Guatemalan highlands by small family owned farms around the city of Cobn and exported to the Middle East. The plants are large perennial reed-like herbs with blade-shaped leaves growing to a height of 12 feet or more. They grow prolifically in moist mountain jungles via horizontally spreading rhizomes and are easily cultivated by local inhabitants who clear away other growth to allow the Cardamom plants to proliferate. In their fourth year of growth, the plants flower and produce fruit. The seeds are enclosed in hulls which are ideally not removed until just before distillation in order to help retain the volatile oils contained in the seeds.
Oil Description: Colorless to pale golden yellow liquid that darkens when exposed to daylight. The aroma of Cardamom is extremely tenacious and is initially slightly medicinal, giving way to a warming, sweet-spicy bouquet with a woody-balsamic backnote.
HistoricalTraditional Uses: Cardamom was supposedly first distilled in the 1540s by Valerius Cordus, a noted German botanist who was the author of one of the greatest pharmacopoeias in history. In addition to its long standing use in cooking, Cardamom has been used for at least several thousand years in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine to treat digestive, urinary and pulmonary issues; in more recent times it has been employed extensively in the soap, perfume, and flavor industry.
Applications (Uses and Indications): In aromatherapy, Cardamom is indicated for loss of appetite, halitosis, nausea, indigestion, heartburn, intestinal cramping, etc.; helpful for mental fatigue and nervous tension. It has been employed in aphrodisiac preparations for its suave stimulating effect. In perfumery, Cardamom lends a warm, sweet and spicy note to florals such as rose. It blends well with bergamot, cedarwood, cinnamon, clove, coriander, frankincense, labdanum, orange, and ylang ylang, and imparts warmth to oriental and chypre bases.
Contraindications (Safety and Precautions): Cardamom essential oil is non-toxic, non-sensitizing and non-irritating.
Standard Safety Precautions: Always dilute essential oils before using. Keep essential oils out of the eyes and mucous membranes; in case of contact, DO NOT use water, instead place a drop or two of vegetable oil on a tissue to gently wipe out of eye or off area of contact. In severe cases, seek professional help immediately. Keep out of the reach of children. In case of ingestion, call 911 immediately.
The FDA has not evaluated the statements on this website. No claims are made as to any medicinal value of this or any products from Ancient Ways Botanicals. The information presented here is for educational purposes of traditional uses and is not intended to prevent, diagnose, treat, or cure any disease. For external use only. You are responsible for understanding the safe application of these products.

Our essential oils have been sourced from some of the finest producers we could find. Whenever possible we have focused on small farmer and family owned distillers who offer high quality oils. Unless otherwise noted, our oils are not diluted or altered in any way (we do offer some oils rose and jasmine diluted in organic jojoba). We offer numerous organic oils and anticipate expanding our organic line in the future. Our essential oils are stored in a cooled, dark room in dark amber bottles and blanketed with nitrogen gas. This helps to reduce oxygenation and deterioration of the oils. Samples of our essential oils are available. We encourage you to try out our oils before committing to making a larger purchase. Most samples ship in a full 1ml perfumers vial. The more precious oils and absolutes such as rose otto, jasmine, tuberose, etc. are very small samples approx .2 ml volume. All samples ship for free!