Myrtle Essential Oil (myrtus communis)

Myrtle essential oil is produced from a large evergreen shrub with glossy blue and green leaves, black berries and white flowers. The shrub is from the North Africa region and Iran which has fragrant, white flowers and bluish-coloured berries. The myrtle essential oil is a pale yellow oil that is obtained through steam distillation of the leaves and twigs. Myrtle is from the same family as tea tree and eucalyptus but more of a delicate aroma that its relatives. Myrtle essential oil has a pleasant, sweet, slightly freshclear aroma with a middle perfume note.

Latin name: Myrtus communis.

Family: Myrtaceae.

Plant part used: Myrtle essential oil is obtained from the bush and young leaves.

Extraction: Myrtle oil is obtained by steam distillation, the essential oil is a pale yellow colour.

Aroma: The essential oil has a pleasant, sweet, slightly fresh, clear smell, resembling eucalyptus oil but with a less penetrating aroma but with a much more delicate fragrance.

Properties of Myrtle Essential Oil: Myrtle oil has been known for its antiseptic, bacteriacide, carminative, astringent and expectorant properties. Its main properties are antiseptic and bactericidal, particularly in pulmonary and urinary infections. Mind: May help to soothe feelings of anger. Effects on the skin: With its antiseptic and astringent qualitys, has a cleansing action on congested skin. Could be useful in the treatment of acne, as well as clearing bruises and blemishes.

Blends well with: Cedarwood, cinnamon, cypress, neroli, oakmoss, bergamot, geranium, eucalyptus, jasmine, lavender, lemon, mandarin, neroli, patchouli, petitgrain, pine, rose, rosemary, sandalwood, ylang ylang and Rose.