Elemi (Conarium lozinicum) wild harvest from Phillipines

The name Elemi is likely to come from the Greek word ‘enhaemon’ which was the name given by Pliny to a resinous medicine extracted from the Arabian olive tree. The ancient Egyptians understood the drying and preserving qualities of Elemi and used it as one of their embalming herbs.

Elemi comes from the same botanical family as Frankincense and Myrrh. Because of this, it has some of the same properties, such as helping with stubborn wounds and being good for the lungs. The essential oil of Elemi contains the chemical constituents phellandrene, elemol, elemicin, terpineol, carvone, and terpinolene among others.

Elemi is most often used for its effects on the respiratory system. It is considered to be an expectorant and antiseptic. Diffusing Elemi into the air can help with coughs and bronchitis; drying excess phlegm and soothing irritated air passages.

Essential oil of Elemi is also used for the skin. It is recommended for blending into skin oils for mature skin, to reduce scarring and infections. It is said to reduce heavy perspiration and rejuvenate the skin.

Emotionally, Elemi seems to have the ability to ease nervous exhaustion and stress. It imparts a feeling of peace and strengthens psychic talents by quieting both mind and heart; enabling us to listen to the deep needs of our soul.

Always dilute your essential oils in an unscented carrier oil like Sesame or Jojoba. Do not take essential oils internally. Always store essential oils out of heat and sunlight. Keep essential oils away from children and pregnant women.

All information in this description is copyright Kamala’s Own LLC. Please ask for permission to reprint it. This description is not medical advice and the information herein comes from personal experience, research, and folklore. If you believe you are ill, consult an M.D. Nothing here is meant to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any medical condition. Nothing here has been evaluated by the FDA.