This Madagascan rainforest tree is praised in traditional Madagascan medicine as a ‘cure all’.

The name ‘ravensara’ comes from a Malagasy phrase that can be translated as ‘leaves that are good for you’ – a pragmatic name for a very useful oil. Ravensara can protect our health in a number of ways and has antibacterial, antiviral and antioxidant abilities, so it’s no wonder that it was considered so crucial to Madagascan medicine.

Ravensara essential oil can reduce the severity of allergic reactions.

One of the most unique properties of ravensara oil is its positive effect on allergy symptoms. A study in 2016 found that exposure to ravensara may help to build resistance against allergenic substances and even reduce the severity of allergic reactions. This suggests that ravensara could play a crucial role in managing allergies and decrease their impact on quality of life. The oil is generally considered non-sensitising and non-irritating, and so is unlikely to have any adverse effects.

It’s an antioxidant.

Ravensara oil contains limonene, a component known for its antioxidant properties. These properties help it to inhibit the activity of free radicals in the body and prevent oxidising damage. This protects cells and organs and reduces our risk of some serious diseases. Antioxidant oils such as ravensara can play an important role in protecting our overall health in the long term.

It’s antibacterial and antiviral.

Ravensara has strong antibacterial abilities, helping to battle harmful microbes and keep them out of our homes and bodies. These abilities make it a great addition to home cleaning sprays. You can try adding a few drops of ravensara oil to a spray bottle of water to experience these benefits.

Ravensara also has powerful antiviral properties. These properties are often employed to combat viruses and protect the body from viral infection. Alongside using ravensara essential oil in cleaning, you may also want to try diffusing and inhaling the oil regularly to effectively guard health.

It inspires happiness.

Ravensara doesn’t just protect our bodies from infection; the oil can also play a role in preventing our mood from sinking. Ravensara is generally considered a positive oil, helping to promote happiness, relieve stress, and give our energy a boost. Diffusing ravensara may help us to work through periods of low mood.

Ravensara is a truly multipurpose plant and holds many benefits for our bodies and minds. Although the oil was only extracted and used in aromatherapy relatively recently, the leaves of the ravensara tree are steeped in a trusted medical and spiritual history.

Shop our ravensara essential oil here.