Elemi (canarium commune) comes from the Burseraceae family.  This family, which also includes Frankincense and Myrrh which is known for their deep majestic resinoid fragrances, medicinal properties and spiritual attributes.

Absolute Aromas has selected the resin from the Elemi tree which native to the Philipines.

The essential oil is steam distilled from the gum and has a clear pale yellow colour. 

The aroma takes on an airy smoky wood scent, very similar to its relative species of Frankincense; however, due to its higher concentration of limonene, it delivers a slight mysterious lemony note that captures your attention.

A typical analysis of the constituents of this essential oil portrays a variety of terpenoids, such as elemol, dipentene, limonene, phellandrene, elemicin, terpineol, and dominates in alpha-terpinene, providing it with disinfectant properties to the essential oil.  The essential oil is much valued in skin care for its rejuvenating and skin repair and natural perfuming properties. 

Elemi should only be used up to a 2% dilution in blends.  e.g. 12 drops in 30 mL carrier oil or cream.

Formulation Corner

Restorative Facial Serum

Restorative Vitamin E Moisture Cream (For Dry & mature skin)

• 2 drops of Elemi

• 2 drops of Sandalwood Australian 

• 3 drops of Neroli 5% diluted

• 30 MLS of Fragrance-Free Vitamin E cream

Mix the essential oil into the Vitamin E cream. Use after facial cleansing.  This can be layered onto of the above serum.

Safety: Non-toxic and non-irritant in prescribed doses.  Keep away from children.  Do not use during pregnancy.  Always consult your healthcare provider 

References

Kikuchi, Takashi, Kensuke Watanabe, Yuichi Tochigi, Ayako Yamamoto, Makoto Fukatsu, Yoichiro Ezaki, Reiko Tanaka, and Toshihiro Akihisa. 2012. "Melanogenesis Inhibitory Activity Of Sesquiterpenes From Canarium Ovatum Resin In Mouse B16 Melanoma Cells". Chemistry & Biodiversity 9 (8): 1500-1507. doi:10.1002/cbdv.201200111.OPDYKE, D. L. J. Monographs on fragrance raw materials Opdyke, D. L. J. n.d. Monographs On Fragrance Raw Materials. 1st ed.1979. 

OPDYKE, D. L. J.Monographs on fragrance raw materials (Opdyke, n.d.) Opdyke, D. L. J. n.d. Monographs On Fragrance Raw Materials. 1st ed.1979