What exactly is rosewood and why is it so sought after?

The oil is obtained through steam distillation from wood shavings which have a warm, woody, slightly spicy and sweet aroma. It is rich in linalool, a substance that is highly sought after in the perfume industry for its unique smell.

Rosewood essential oil comes from the Aniba Rosaeodora plant. This is a tree native to the Amazon rainforests of Brazil and French Guiana. It is a giant tree that never loses its leaves.

When the tree was discovered by the West, it began a long road of overexploitation by the furniture and carpentry industries for its unique wood. This wood is advertised as a luxury wood used in Chinese luxury furniture for elite customers at very high prices. The French also preferred it in the manufacture of cupboards and handles for knives and brushes. It has also been widely used in the perfumery industry.

Unfortunately, in the furniture industry, only 60% of the tree, i.e. its trunk, is used, while all the other parts are thrown away. But the young branches are the ones that contain the main volume of essential oil.

Today, this tree is considered a protected species and is no longer used in furniture, but in aromatherapy only for its natural benefits.

It has become the center of much controversy in recent years as its value has risen from $12,000 in 2009 to $180 million in 2014.

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) banned its trade. India is the only country on the planet where this particular tree is not endangered because it still grows all over the country. However, every year it is obliged to prove that aniba rosaeodora is not endangered in the country, so that it receives the necessary certificate to supply the rest of the world with a stable legal supply.

Rosewood essential oil is a powerful antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal. It can be used in holistic treatments of ear infections, sinusitis, chicken pox, measles, bronchopulmonary infections and many fungal infections.

It regenerates the skin and is used as a treatment for stretch marks, tired skin, wrinkles, acne and scars. It also helps in the treatment of dandruff, eczema and hair loss.

It is also known that it helps to strengthen the sexual mood, while it relieves the symptoms of stress, fatigue and depression.

In general, it can be used by the majority as it does not have severe side effects on the skin. However, pregnant women should avoid it, as it can stimulate the uterus. Special care should also be taken by anyone with a history of hormonal disorders and conditions. It is always a good idea to consult your doctor about using essential oils as he or she knows your medical history.