Ravensara or Ravintsara?
There is a lot of confusing information, out there, between Ravensara (R.aromatica) and Ravintsara (Cinnamomum camphora). Some Essential Oil company’s will even sell one under the others name. So how do you know which one you are getting? Follow your nose! There are distinct scents, between them, that will help you determine which one you have received.
- Ravensara (R.aromatica) smells of a Cinnamon-Eucalyptus, and is also considered not as Therapeutic, but is used a lot for its Fragrance.
- Ravintsara (Cinnamomum camphora) smells more of a Champhor-Eucalyptus, and is used when it is needed for Therapeutic purposes like respiratory help or shingles.
What do you want to use it for?
Ravensara (R. aromatica) (sometimes called clove nutmeg) is a member of the Lauraceae (laurel) family, and originates in Madagascar. Technically named Agatophyllum aromaticum, the oil contains 3-6% of the methyl eugenol, and has been identified as a potent rodent carcinogen. It has a warm, spicy eucalyptus scent and is widely sold to perfumers for its fragrance, to use on a diluted level.
Ravintsara (Cinnamomum camphora) is referred to as “the oil that heals” in Madagascar. Another “universal oil” like Lavender because of its many uses. May be anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-infectious, antiseptic, expectorant, supporting to nerves. Assist respiratory problems, shingles, cuts, wounds, burns, anti-biotic, liver, lung infections, rhinopharyngitis, flu, sinusitis, viral hepatitis, cholera, herpes, infectious mononucleosis, insomnia, muscle fatigue.
Ravintsara has strong anti-infectious, antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial, antispasmodic, analgesic, carminative, expectorant and immune stimulant properties. Ravintsara is less irritating to the skin and is considered a gentle anti-viral essential oil. This anti-viral oil is the oil of choice for respiratory viruses and or bronchial problems. It’s high content of 1.8 cineole ci will help ease breathing and congestion. This oil is devoid of any toxicity (at physiological doses)
Other Articles:
http://www.users.globalnet.co.uk/~nodice/new/magazine/ravensara/ravensara.htm
http://theida.com/essential-oils/ravintsara-vs-ravensara-what%E2%80%99s-the-difference