(Nardostachys jatamansi) May ease symptoms associated with the monthly menstrual cycle, support healthy hormone, immune and circulatory function and soothe the skin. May promote restful sleep.
Aromatherapy Literature Notes "Conventional medical language states that the exact causes of psoriasis are not known. Phrases found on the Internet culminate in: 'Psoriasis is a puzzle.' The absence of an immune system response to psoriasis suggests that it is not caused by outside factors but is instead an aberration of our own (skin) metabolism. Essential oil treatment aims to rectify virtually every skin problem. The main agent to do so is Nardostachys jatamansii or Spikenard. This oil was originally recommended by Dietrich Gümbel, the pioneer of an anthroposophical approach to skin care, to rectify virtually every skin problem.
Nardostachys jatamansii essential oil is extremely well tolerated and regenerates the skin most gently. The original impulse to use this oil for skin treatments most likely arose from the anthroposophical fascination with plants with an open, in other words eternal, life cycle. Spikenard can be complemented by minute quantities of Mountain Savory with its forceful reanimating components, Niaouli (Melaleuca quinquenervia viridiflora or MQV) with its unrivaled restorative powers, and Lippia citriodora, which balances nervous and endocrine systems." (Schnaubelt Ph.D., Kurt. The Healing Intelligence of Essential Oils, pages 156-157.)
"Spikenard is probably the most powerful sedative in aromatherapy. It can be used universally in skin care, where it restores balance to all skin types. It can also be tried for otherwise difficult-to-treat skin conditions such as psoriasis. Preferred mode of use: Internal and external. Blends well with lavender." (Schnaubelt, Kurt. Medical Aromatherapy: Healing with Essential Oils.)
Topical: Dilute with a carrier oil, unscented lotion or unscented cream and apply on area of concern or as desired. Consider using a roll-on applicator for ease of application of prediluted oil.
Inhalation: Diffuse (may need to add a thinner oil such as Lemon) or use a personal Nasal Inhaler
Internal: Spikenard is suitable for internal use within safe parameters if such use is deemed appropriate. We feel that internal use is rarely *needed* and should only be used with respect for how concentrated the oils are. HEO does not advocate internal use of essential oils without appropriate knowledge and understanding of how to administer, for what purpose, how much, which essential oils, safety concerns and so on. In our experience, essential oils are generally more effective used topically with proper dilution or inhaled. Kurt Schnaubelt Ph.D. notes that "French aromatherapy literature contains many references to using oils orally." He goes on to note that "generally 1 drop is always enough when ingesting essential oils." A potential toxicity hazard could occur when untrained people use essential oils orally and ingest too much. Keep in mind that while medical doctors or health care practitioners may prescribe essential oils for internal use, they are trained and experienced in the safe application of essential oils. It is not a matter of using "French" or "British" methods, it's a matter of experience and appropriate application. Click here for more information about internal usage.
Avoid contact with the eyes and other sensitive areas. Essential oils are both lipophilic and hydrophobic. Lipophilic means they are attracted to fat— like the membranes of your eyes and skin. They are also hydrophobic, meaning they do not like water. Applying a carrier oil will create another fat for the essential oil to be attracted to other than the membranes of the eyes or skin. Tisserand suggests: "With essential oils, fatty oil has been suggested as an appropriate first aid treatment, though the advantage of saline [eyewash] is that the eyes can be continually flushed, and this is less easy with fatty oil.” We are not aware of a case where essential oil in the eyes caused permanent injury or long-term discomfort, but if you feel concerned, please call your health care provider.
