Normally Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanioides) is my go-to for insomnia and restful sleep. I put a couple of drops in a generous amount of lotion and rub the concoction on the bottom of my feet. And during the cold winter months, I add a drop of Cinnamon Leaf (but be very careful - it will irritate the skin if not diluted. Max dilution for adults is 0.6%.) And then put on a pair of super cozy socks… But tonight I just wasn’t feeling Vetiver but it’s so late that I wanted to use essential oils that would help promote sleep. I decided on Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi), Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis), and Muhuhu (Brachylaena hutchinsii). I have never used Muhuhu in a blend before and I learned that it’s nickname is “African Sandalwood” as it has similar wellness properties as Sandalwood (Santalum spicatum, Santalum paniculatum, Santalum album). On its own, Muhuhu reminds me of this intricately engraved dresser my mom had when I was young… that’s what I love about essential oils, how they can jog random memories… Turns out, Muhuhu wood is often used for woodwork and carpentry, and its from the wood shavings that the essential oil is distilled. I remember I was intrigued and bought it because a few have said it smelled like a campfire, and indeed it does. I liked the blend when I held all three bottles up to my nose, but when I diffused it, it was OK. I will try Muhuhu again with something else.
Aromatic Profile: Herbaceous 39%, Citrus 32%, Woody 29%.
Those interested, the chemical groups breakdown is:
- Monoterpenes 42.33%
- Esters 27.56%
- Sesquiterpenes 17.21%
- Others 6.4%
- Monoterpenols 2.6%
- Sesquiterpenols 1.5%
- Ketones 1.46%
- Aldehydes 0.55%
- Ethers 0.39%
Supports systems: Digestive, Muscular/Skeletal, Reproductive, Skin, Neurological.
