Ambrette Essential Oil - In Depth Information

Ambrette Essential Oil

Botanical Information

Botanical Name: Hibiscus abelmoschus (Synonym: Abelmoschus moschatus)
Family: Malvaceae
Origin: India
Common Names: Ambrette essential oil, Musk mallow essential oil, Botanical musk, Vegetable musk, Kasturi Bhindi oil, Mushkdana oil, Latakasturi oil

Extraction and Characteristics

Extraction Method: Steam distillation
Parts Used: Seeds
CAS Number: 8015-62-1
INCI Name: Hibiscus abelmoschus seed oil
Appearance: Pale yellow liquid oil

Aroma Profile

Ambrette essential oil belongs to the amber scent family. Its aroma is intense yet subtle, rich yet lifting, with a fruity musky-floral character. It has sensual, tobacco, and leather notes, with undertones of underwood and a slight animalistic background. As a base note, it is tenacious and serves as an excellent fixative and amplifier of top notes.

Chemical Composition

The main typical molecular constituents include:
  • (E,E)Farnesyl acetate
  • (Z)-7-Hexadecen-16-olid (Ambrettolide)
  • Decyl acetate
  • Dodecyl acetate
  • Farnesol
  • Palmitic acid (traces)

Properties

Ambrette essential oil offers a wide range of therapeutic benefits:
  • Antispasmodic (stomach, muscles)
  • Aphrodisiac and sexual tonic
  • Heart pulse regulator
  • Calming and relaxing, acting on the central nervous system
  • Sebum regulator
  • Antioxidant
  • Anti-inflammatory and antipyretic
  • Anti-infectious, antibacterial, and antifungal
  • Antiparasitic and insecticidal
  • Circulatory and venous decongestant
  • Lymphatic decongestant and detoxifying
  • Mood-boosting and energizing

Uses and Applications

Aromatherapy and Wellbeing

  • Promotes calm breathing and regular heart beats
  • Eases stress, nervousness, and anxiety
  • Aids in meditation and grounding exercises
  • Boosts libido and creates sensual atmospheres
  • Soothes muscle spasms and cramps
  • Alleviates digestive issues and improves appetite
  • Enhances circulation and supports lymphatic drainage

Skincare and Beauty

  • Regulates sebum production in both dry and oily skin types
  • Soothes irritated and itchy skin
  • Aids in acne and blemish treatment
  • Supports scalp health in hair care products
  • Used in oral care for breath freshening

Natural Perfumery

  • Excellent fixative and enhancer of top notes
  • Used as a botanical alternative to animal or synthetic musk
  • Complements floral, powdery, and amber notes

Culinary Applications

  • Flavoring ingredient in gourmet cooking
  • Used in herbal liqueurs and spirits
  • Adds an oriental or Mediterranean touch to dishes

Blending and Usage Guidelines

Ambrette essential oil is powerful aromatically, and a little goes a long way. It's best used blended with other essential oils.

Maximum recommended dilution is 10% (1 ml or 20 drops per 10 ml of carrier oil).

For skincare, use 0.5-2% concentration depending on the application area.

Safety Precautions

  • Do not use undiluted
  • Avoid use during the first 3 months of pregnancy and while breastfeeding
  • Keep out of reach of children and pets
  • Perform a patch test before first use
  • Seek medical advice when in doubt

Storage

Keep bottles tightly closed in a cool, dry place protected from sunlight and heat sources.

 

Recipes

Sensual Massage Oil

  • 30 ml Sweet almond oil
  • 3 drops Ambrette essential oil
  • 2 drops Rose essential oil
  • 1 drop Ylang-ylang essential oil
Mix ingredients in a dark glass bottle. Apply to the skin for a sensual massage.

Ambrette Facial Oil

  • 15 ml Jojoba oil
  • 15 ml Rosehip oil
  • 5 drops Ambrette essential oil
  • 2 drops Vitamin E oil
Blend all ingredients. Apply a few drops to face and neck after cleansing and toning.

Calming Room Spray

  • 60 ml Distilled water
  • 60 ml Home Perfume base alcohol
  • 20 drops Ambrette essential oil

Combine ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake well before each use.

Ambrette essential oil is a versatile and precious ingredient in aromatherapy, natural perfumery, and skincare.

Its complex aroma and numerous benefits make it a valuable addition to any essential oil collection.