| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Amyris balsamifera |
| Plant Family | Rutaceae |
| Plant Part Used | Heartwood and branches |
| Extraction Method | Steam Distillation |
| Origin Regions | Haiti, Dominican Republic, Central America |
Description
Amyris essential oil, often referred to as “West Indian Sandalwood,” is distilled from the heartwood of the Amyris balsamifera tree, a small tropical evergreen native to the Caribbean and parts of Central America. Despite the nickname, Amyris is not a true sandalwood, but its rich, woody aroma with gentle balsamic undertones has made it a widely used and sustainable alternative to Santalum album (Indian sandalwood).
The oil is obtained through slow steam distillation of aged wood—typically logs that have naturally dried for several years before processing. This aging process allows the resinous compounds to develop fully, giving Amyris oil its characteristic depth and creamy texture. Distillation often takes many hours and requires low heat to coax out the heavier sesquiterpenes responsible for the oil’s longevity and warm base note. In Haiti, where much of the world’s Amyris is sourced, this traditional method has been passed down through generations of distillers.
Because Amyris trees grow abundantly and regenerate easily, the essential oil is considered a sustainable choice compared to endangered sandalwood species. The essential oil itself is thick, amber-colored, and highly fixative—meaning it slows the evaporation of other more volatile oils. As a result, Amyris is widely used in natural perfumery and as a grounding base note in meditation and relaxation blends.
History & Background
| Era / Region | Traditional Use | Notable Facts |
|---|---|---|
| Caribbean & Central America | Local medicine and torches | Heartwood was once burned as a slow, fragrant torch due to its high oil content |
| 19th Century | Exported to Europe | Used as a cheaper alternative to true sandalwood |
| Modern Times | Perfumery and aromatherapy | Recognized for sustainable production and fixative properties |
Amyris has a long association with trade and craftsmanship in the Caribbean. Before it was ever distilled into essential oil, locals used the dense, resin-rich wood as a natural torch because it burned slowly and emitted a pleasant scent. When European perfumers discovered its aroma, Amyris quickly gained commercial value as a fragrance ingredient. Over time, it became an important material in both perfumery and natural wellness, valued for its affordability and ecological sustainability.
Aroma Profile
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Aroma Type | Warm, woody, sweet, balsamic, slightly smoky |
| Scent Strength | Medium to strong (base note) |
| Blends Well With | Vetiver, Cedarwood, Lavender, Bergamot, Patchouli, and Frankincense |
Amyris oil’s fragrance is soft and grounding, often described as calming and gently sweet. It brings warmth and depth to blends and serves as an excellent fixative, helping lighter notes last longer.
Chemical Composition
| Compound | Approx. % | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Valerianol | 15–25% | Sedative, grounding note |
| Eudesmol (α-, β-, γ-) | 20–40% | Fixative, stabilizing, and relaxing aroma |
| Elemol | 10–20% | Sweet woody tone, antimicrobial potential |
| Caryophyllene | 2–5% | Soothing and grounding properties |
Amyris essential oil is dominated by sesquiterpene alcohols such as eudesmol and valerianol, giving it viscosity, fixative power, and a deeply tranquil scent profile. These compounds are also believed to contribute to the oil’s calming and centering qualities.
Cautions & Safety
| Type | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Internal Use | Not for internal use. May cause digestive irritation if ingested. |
| Topical Use | Dilute with carrier oil (2–3%) before applying. Generally non-irritating when diluted. |
| Pregnancy / Children | Considered safe for general use; consult a healthcare provider if pregnant or nursing. |
| Eyes / Ears / Mucous Membranes | Avoid direct contact. |
| Storage | Store in a cool, dark location to maintain viscosity and aroma integrity. |
Amyris oil is regarded as one of the gentler essential oils, with minimal risk of sensitization when used properly. However, due to its thickness, it may crystallize or solidify in cool temperatures—simply warm the bottle gently before use.
Uses & Application Steps
Aromatic Use
- Add 3–4 drops to a diffuser to create a peaceful and grounding environment.
- Blend with citrus oils such as bergamot or sweet orange for a balanced, uplifting scent.
- Ideal for evening diffusion, meditation sessions, or promoting restful sleep.
Topical Use
- Combine 2–3 drops of Amyris oil with 1 teaspoon of carrier oil (such as jojoba or almond).
- Apply to temples, wrists, or the back of the neck for a calming effect.
- Incorporate into massage blends to ease tension and enhance relaxation.
Bath Use
- Mix 3 drops of Amyris with 1 tablespoon of carrier oil and 1 cup of Epsom salts before adding to a warm bath.
- Soak for 20 minutes to unwind both the mind and body.
- Avoid direct contact of undiluted oil with skin or bathwater.
Further Reading & External Links
| Source | URL |
|---|---|
| PubChem Compound Summary | https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov |
| Tisserand Institute Safety Guidelines | https://tisserandinstitute.org |
| IFRA Standards Library | https://ifrafragrance.org |
| Aromatic Science Database | https://aromaticscience.com |
Citations & References
- Tisserand, R., & Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety (2nd ed.). Elsevier.
- IFRA Standards, 2024 Update.
- Burfield, T. (2000). Natural Aromatic Materials: Odours and Origins.
- Price, S., & Price, L. (2012). Aromatherapy for Health Professionals (4th ed.). Churchill Livingstone.
- PubChem Database – Amyris balsamifera Compounds.
Conclusion
Amyris essential oil offers a quiet strength that is both grounding and restorative. Its soft, woody aroma evokes the calm of forest air after rain—a sense of stillness that can center the mind and body. Because it distills from slow-aged heartwood, Amyris carries the essence of time and patience within its chemistry. This maturity is reflected in its long-lasting fragrance and stabilizing effect when blended with lighter oils.
For artisans and perfumers, Amyris provides a sustainable path forward—a way to achieve the creamy warmth of sandalwood without contributing to the overharvesting of endangered trees. Its fixative properties not only extend the life of blends but also deepen them, adding a subtle sophistication to both personal fragrances and therapeutic applications.
In aromatherapy, Amyris is valued for its tranquil, meditative qualities. Whether used in diffusers before rest, in massage oils to ease tension, or in natural perfumes to anchor fleeting top notes, it consistently supports balance and relaxation. A versatile yet humble oil, Amyris reminds us that some of the most enduring aromas come not from abundance, but from slow growth, rich soil, and respectful harvesting.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This content is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any essential oil. Conduct your own research by reviewing all citations and references listed above.