Essential Oil Cistus

Botanical Name

Cistus ladaniferus / L. (Beta maculata Dun)

Benefits and Qualities

A powerful anti-hemorrhaging agent, cistus essential oil shows visible effectiveness in healing wounds. It possesses a strong astringent and regenerating power on tissues, for which reason it is recommended for use to deter the formation of wrinkles on the face. In addition, this plant helps to regulate the nervous system, facilitates the healing of infantile illnesses such as whooping cough, and demonstrates strong support of the immune system.

Production

Essential oil obtained by hydrodistillation of the leaves and branches of cistus landiferus L. (Cistaceaes)

The Plant

Beginning in April, the Spanish countryside, and indeed the entire Mediterranean basin, is adorned with delicate cistus blossoms. It would be nice to gather them but they are so fragile, like crêpe paper. On the other hand, the plant which bears them has developed a stategy to combat the aridity: labdanum, drops of resin which entirely cover it and slow the process of evaporation. In his histories Herodatus noted this gum in the ""Persian Royal Perfumery."" Ever since, cistus and its labdanum have always been sought after by perfumiers for their amber scent, which is very rare in the plant world.

Caution

Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. Keep away from children. Do not apply to the skin undiluted.

Principes aromatiques

Alpha-pinene (10% to 20%), terpenes, acetates, terpenyles, bornyle

Parfume-Creation

Warm, spicy odour, somewhat of amber, balsamic, with woody, dry accents, finely rendered. Erogenous element within a fantasia of fragrances.

Description olfactive

Heart note. Amber odour; woody, lingering.