Essential Oil of the Week: Ravensara

      We have been fighting off a cold here at our house all week and unfortunately it has been hanging onto my 20 month old son.  He is completely congested and miserable with a snotty nose and constant cough.  One trick of ours is to steam up the shower and then turn the bath on immediately after while Liam soaks in the tub.  He feels immediate relief when we add 8-10 drops of our favorite essential oil.  One fantastic essential oil for cold and flu is that of Ravensara.  This evergreen species of tree grows in Madagascar and Asia as well.  The potent oil has a spicy and calming aroma that penetrates deeply into the body for ultimate healing therapy.  Little Liam loves the way Ravensara eases his cough and reduces his congestion instantly.  His attitude softens and he seems to feel better within minutes of entering the balmy bathroom.  Try this if you ever find yourself or loved ones bogged down by an infection or virus.  Ravensara is antiviral, antibacterial, antiseptic and a wonderful expectorant.  Thus making it one powerful oil for any and all illnesses.  Once the oil enters the body it helps to raise immunity and ward off lung and throat infections as well as asthmatic symptoms.  Any allergy sufferers out there would be wise to keep Ravensara within reach especially now that the pollen is really accumulating.  It acts to calm the body and mind of any and all irritants.  Ravensara has been known to gently ease symptoms felt by those with chronic depression when inhaled or applied topically daily.  Ravensara also has the ability to reduce nervous tension in high strung or stressed out individuals.  Furthermore, this particular oil will work wonders on those suffering from insomnia.  It is said that the oil creates a lightness of being once it has been applied to the body.  The essential oil of Ravensara eases spasms and muscle tension so be sure to use post workout.  You can even apply this oil diluted to a dog suffering from muscular aches/pains and superficial wounds.  The properties of Ravensara help wounds heal quickly by keeping bacteria at bay.  If you are looking to use this particular oil on a pregnant woman search for something called Ravensara which is gentler on the system.  As an aphrodisiac it is said that Ravensara can be contraindicated during pregnancy.  Try blending this essential oil with Palmarosa and Melaleuca for a fabulously healing potion.  When you are feeling in the mood for a powerhouse oil application during your next massage Ravensara will not disappoint!
By: Sarah McCallum
Massage Therapist @ NLMSC