Essential Oil Caraway

Botanical Name

Carum carvi / L.

Benefits and Qualities

Caraway essential oil is above all a digestive stimulant and aids in the expulsion of intestinal gasses. It is also employed to reduce abdominal wind, flatulence, and dyspepsia. A small dose can help to stimulate the brain, but its power requires discernment in its use.

Production

Essential oil obtained by hydrodistillation of the dried seeds of carum carvi L. (Ombelliferes)

The Plant

There is often confusion between caraway and cumin, to the point that, in culinary usage, one might be sold for the other. These two plants are equally ancient, with fossil traces found in the human environment in Asia during the remotest epochs. But caraway did not arrive in northern Europe until the 18th century. It finds a place in cookbooks regardless of whether a recipe is sweet or savory.

Caution

Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. Keep away from children.

Principes aromatiques

Carvone, limonene

Parfume-Creation

Very spicey fragrance typical of caraway. Because of its strong odour it is not used in perfumery except in small doses in modern masculine perfumes.

Description olfactive

Heart note. Spicy, woody, warm odour.