Spikenard oil
Spikenard Oil is a precious essential oil steam-distilled from the rhizomes and roots of Nardostachys jatamansi, a flowering plant native to the Himalayan regions of Nepal and India. With a rich, warm, earthy, and slightly sweet aroma, this oil is characterized by complex notes of wood, musk, and spice. Its main constituents—nardol, jatamansone, and valeranone—offer well-known anti-inflammatory, calming, and neuroprotective properties. Historically revered in Ayurvedic and spiritual traditions, Spikenard Oil is used in aromatherapy for relaxation, meditation, and emotional well-being, as well as in high-end perfumery, skincare, and therapeutic formulations.
Uses
Primary Uses
Aromatherapy & Wellness
- Diffused to promote deep relaxation, reduce anxiety, and support restful sleep.
- Used in meditation blends to enhance grounding, spiritual clarity, and presence.
- Incorporated in stress-relief oil rollers and inhalers for calming the nervous system.
- Added to massage oils for soothing muscle tension and easing mental fatigue.
- Included in respiratory-support blends to gently relieve congestion and promote calm.
Cosmetics and Personal Care
- Added to facial serums, creams, and oils for anti-aging, skin-calming, and soothing benefits.
- Used in natural deodorants and personal fragrance blends for its distinctive herbal-woody aroma.
- Incorporated in body balms, lotions, and bath oils for relaxation and skin nourishment.
- Applied in scalp treatments and hair oils to soothe irritation and strengthen follicles.
Topical Applications
- Diluted and applied to minor wounds, burns, or irritation as a calming topical agent.
- Used in compresses or salves to reduce inflammatory discomfort and support skin healing.
- Included in blends for joint and muscle relief due to anti-inflammatory effect.
- Applied in calming sprays for skin sensitization or redness after exposure or irritation.
Secondary Uses
Cleaning and Detergent Products
- Added to high-end natural cleaners and sanitizers for aroma and mild antimicrobial function.
- Used in home fragrance products such as room sprays and linen mists for an herbal, grounding scent.
Spa and Therapeutic Products
- Used in aromatherapy massage blends in spa settings for relaxation and stress relief.
- Incorporated in bath soaks, facial steam blends, and wellness balms for body and mind rejuvenation.
Fragrance and Ambient Scenting
- Used as a base or middle note in niche perfumes, natural colognes, and ambient scent systems with herbal, woody, or oriental profiles.
- Blended into luxury candles, reed diffusers, and oil burners to evoke meditative and serene atmospheres.
Pet and Animal Care
- Used in pet-safe room mists or calming sprays (very low concentration and with expert guidance).
Industrial and Specialty Applications
- Employed in specialty fragrance lines for spa, wellness, and boutique product ranges where a distinctive earthy-woody note is desired.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Botanical Name: Nardostachys jatamansi
- Common/Trade Name: Spikenard Oil
- INCI Name: Nardostachys Jatamansi Root Oil
- CAS Number: 224-219-5
- HS Code: 3301.29
- Synonyms: Nard Oil, Jatamansi Oil, Spikenard Essential Oil
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Liquid essential oil
- Color & Odor: Dark amber to yellow-brown; deep, warm, woody, earthy aroma
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in alcohol and fixed oils
- Refractive Index: 1.490 – 1.510
- Specific Gravity: 0.950 – 0.980
- Main Components: Nardol, jatamansone, valeranone, elemol
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: May cause skin sensitization or irritation if undiluted
- Toxicity: Low toxicity when properly diluted; for external use only
- Exposure Limits: Refer to Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
- Allergen Information: Contains natural allergens; patch testing recommended
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated environment, protected from light
- Container Type: Amber glass or aluminum bottles with airtight closures
- Shelf Life: 24 to 36 months if stored under optimal conditions
- Handling Precautions: Use gloves and limit direct skin contact with undiluted oil
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Compliant with IFRA standards for fragrance use
- Produced in GMP-compliant and quality-controlled manufacturing facilities
- Not classified as hazardous for transport under normal shipping conditions
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Biodegradable under typical environmental conditions
- Ecotoxicity: Low aquatic toxicity at conventional use concentrations
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate significantly
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves and protective eyewear during bulk or industrial handling
- Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid vapor buildup and direct contact
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms occur
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water; discontinue use if irritation develops
- Eye Contact: Rinse with clean water for at least 15 minutes; consult medical advice if discomfort continues
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth and seek medical attention immediately; do not induce vomiting
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible; keep away from open flames and ignition sources
- Extinguishing Media: Foam, dry chemical powder, carbon dioxide, or water mist
- Special Precautions: Use self-contained breathing apparatus and protective clothing
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, aromatic hydrocarbons