Spikenard

Also known as: Spikenard essential oil is extracted from the Nardostachys jatamansi of the Valerianaceae family, via standard steam distillations processes. 

This essential oil is also known as "false" Indian valerian root.

Home Remedies using Spikenard Essential Oil:

Spikenard oil has a warm, inviting scent. The essential oil itself is a very light yellow in hue, and the oil is medium in texture, and has a nice, substantial feeling. 

Spikenard is very aromatic, has been used since the time before Christ, and was even spoken about in Biblical text.  Spikenard is a native to the mountain regions in India, Japan, and China.

Benefits of Spikenard Essential Oil:

Spikenard essential oil has been used since before Biblical times, and is well established in its worth, both as a medicinal herb and as one widely used in fragrance manufacturing.  Spikenard has good therapeutic properties in relieving swelling and redness, cleaning wounds and areas that need to be disinfected.  It promotes system regularity has sedative properties, and works well as a general tonic for the system.

Spikenard essential oil works well at soothing tension relieving stress and nervousness, helping maintain a calm digestive tract, and relieving sleeplessness.  Further, spikenard oil is great for all types of skin care.  It is especially beneficial for skin problems associated with aging, allergy related skin problems, various types of topical rashes, and inflammations on the skin.

• In aromatherapy, spikenard works well in diffusers, simmer pots, or steam baths. 
• A few drops of spikenard oil also work well as a bath additive.
• Spikenard essential oil works well blended with other essential oils in custom mixes, and diluted in a carrier oil for massage therapy. 
• It may be added to lotion or cream bases to me rubbed into skin as well.

Side Effects of Spikenard Essential Oil:

Spikenard essential oil has no known risk factors that are associated with its use.  There are no known sensitivities, and spikenard is not recognized as an essential oil with which there are associated risks of photosynthesis. 

As is the case with any essential oil, a skin patch test should be conducted before initial use, care should be taken when used on children, and all essential oils should, unless otherwise stated in manufacturer’s instructions, or under the advice of a qualified aromatherapist, be diluted before use.