| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Cinnamomum camphora var. linalooliferum |
| Pronunciation | HOH-wood |
| Common Names | Shiu Wood, Chinese Rosewood, Ho Sho |
| Plant Family | Lauraceae (Laurel Family) |
| Plant Part Used | Heartwood and branches |
| Extraction Method | Steam Distillation |
| Origin Regions | China, Japan, and Taiwan |
Description
Ho Wood essential oil is a gentle, floral-woody oil distilled from the heartwood of the Cinnamomum camphora tree. With a soft, sweet aroma similar to Rosewood, Ho Wood has become one of the most sustainable and ethical replacements for that now-endangered species. Its fragrance is delicately rosy, woody, and fresh, offering a comforting sense of peace and emotional stability.
The oil’s main component, linalool, gives it potent calming and restorative qualities. It soothes both the body and the mind, encouraging relaxation without sedation. Many aromatherapists describe Ho Wood as a “quiet strength oil” — nurturing serenity, confidence, and clarity in moments of stress or overwhelm.
Physically, Ho Wood essential oil supports skin rejuvenation, immune balance, and relaxation, while emotionally it nurtures feelings of compassion, emotional warmth, and presence. Spiritually, it is associated with heart-opening and mindfulness, encouraging calm awareness of one’s inner self.
Whether diffused in a bedroom, blended in a massage oil, or added to a skincare formula, Ho Wood provides an elegant, peaceful atmosphere — a fragrance of comfort and quiet grace.
History & Background
| Era / Region | Traditional Use | Notable Facts |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient China | Wood medicine | Used for calming, cleansing, and balance |
| Early Japan | Timber and incense | Valued for temple building and spiritual purification |
| 20th Century | Perfumery | Became a sustainable substitute for Rosewood oil |
| Modern Aromatherapy | Stress relief and skin care | Used for relaxation, meditation, and heart-centered calm |
Ho Wood was once distilled primarily for camphor production, but its softer, linalool-rich chemotype was later prized for perfumery and aromatherapy. The transition from Rosewood to Ho Wood represents an important step toward ethical essential oil sourcing.
Aroma Profile
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Aroma Type | Floral, woody, soft, and slightly sweet |
| Scent Strength | Medium (Middle Note) |
| Blends Well With | Lavender, Cedarwood, Frankincense, Geranium, and Rose |
Ho Wood adds refinement and tranquility to blends — its sweet-woody tone pairs beautifully with both florals and resins.
Chemical Composition
| Compound | Approx. % | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Linalool | 80–98% | Calming, antimicrobial, regenerative |
| α-Terpineol | 1–3% | Relaxing, cleansing |
| Nerolidol | 0.5–1% | Skin soothing, sedative |
| Limonene | 0.5–1% | Uplifting, antioxidant |
| Geraniol | trace | Floral nuance, skin support |
The exceptional linalool content gives Ho Wood its distinctly soothing and skin-supportive character, making it one of the most relaxing oils available.
Cautions & Safety
| Type | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Internal Use | Not for internal use. |
| Topical Use | Dilute to 1–3%. Excellent for sensitive or dry skin. |
| Pregnancy / Children | Generally safe when diluted; non-toxic and non-sensitizing. |
| Photosensitivity | Non-phototoxic. |
| Storage | Store away from heat and light to preserve delicate floral notes. |
Ho Wood is among the gentlest essential oils, ideal for everyday use and safe for most skin types.
Uses & Application Steps
Ho Wood essential oil is used for relaxation, emotional stability, and skin rejuvenation. Its floral-woody calm blends easily into wellness and spa routines.
Aromatic Use
- Diffuse 3–4 drops for peace, clarity, and comfort.
- Blend with Lavender and Bergamot for a bedtime diffuser mix.
- Inhale to relieve mental tension or anxiety.
Topical Use
- Dilute 2 drops in 1 teaspoon (5 mL) carrier oil.
- Apply to temples, wrists, or neck to calm nerves.
- Add to moisturizers or serums to support youthful, smooth skin.
Massage or Bath Use
- Mix 5–6 drops with 1 tablespoon carrier oil for a balancing massage.
- Blend with Geranium and Frankincense for a heart-soothing bath.
- Use after yoga or meditation for restorative relaxation.
Emotional & Spiritual Use
- Diffuse during meditation to center emotions and open the heart.
- Apply (diluted) to the chest for compassion and emotional warmth.
- Blend with Rose and Cedarwood for self-reflection and inner peace.
Further Reading & External Links
| Source | URL |
|---|---|
| AromaWeb — Ho Wood Essential Oil Profile | https://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/ho-wood-essential-oil.php |
| Eden Botanicals — Ho Wood Essential Oil | https://www.edenbotanicals.com/ho-wood.html |
| Florihana — Ho Wood Organic Essential Oil | https://www.florihana.com/us/essential-oils/151-ho-wood-organic-3700343010745.html |
| Plant Therapy — Ho Wood Essential Oil | https://www.planttherapy.com/products/ho-wood-essential-oil |
| PubChem — Linalool Compound Summary | https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/6549 |
Citations & References
- Tisserand, R., & Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety (2nd ed.). Elsevier.
- PubChem Database — Linalool (CID: 6549).
- IFRA Standards, 2024 Update.
- AromaWeb — Ho Wood Essential Oil Profile.
- Eden Botanicals — Ho Wood Product Page.
Conclusion
Ho Wood essential oil is the essence of peace and sustainability — a fragrance of serenity rooted in ethical practice. Its floral-woody scent embodies balance and tenderness, soothing both the nervous system and the skin.
Emotionally, it quiets overthinking and dissolves anxiety. Physically, it supports radiant skin and deep relaxation. Spiritually, it encourages compassion and heart-centered stillness — an invitation to slow down and reconnect with calm awareness.
Ho Wood teaches that strength doesn’t have to roar; it can whisper — calm, enduring, and full of grace.
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.