Labdanum (Rock Rose) Absolute, Spain

Labdanum (Rock Rose) 100% Pure Absolute, Spain

• Botanical Name: Cistus ladaniferus L. 
• Origin: Spain
• Method of Extraction: Solvent Extracted (Ethanol)
• Parts used: Rezinoid/Gum
• Color: Dark Brown to Black
• Perfumery Note: Base
• Consistency: Very Thick, Sticky
• Aromatic Description: Sweet, Balsamic, Musky, Similar to Opoponax
• Blends well with: Bergamot, Calamus, Chamomile, Champaca, Clary Sage, Cypress, Cypress Blue, Frankincense, Jasmine, Juniper Berry, Lavandin, Lavender, Lemon, Lime, Myrrh, Myrtle, Neroli, Nutmeg, Oakmoss, Opoponax, Orange, Palo Santo, Patchouli, Pine, Sandalwood, Spikenard, Tuberose, Vanilla, Vetiver
• Initial Strength: Medium
• Class: Monoterpene

100% Pure & Natural Essential Oil

          This species of plant is known by many names such as Cistus, Labdanum, Rose of Sharon or Rock Rose. The extracts of this species are normally separated into only 2 names, Cistus referring to the extract which is steam distilled from leaves and stems and Labdanum referring to extracts which are macerated from gum or resinoid into ethanol then separated. Both extracts come from different parts of the same species of plant. This creates two very different products in appearance and aroma.

          Labdanum Absolute has a dark brown color. It has a sweet balsamic earthy aroma somewhat similar to Myrrh or Opoponax. It is thicker than honey and very sticky. In perfumery it is used as a substitute for ambergris. The aroma has some similarity and its ability to hold onto the surface of the skin is amazing. In ancient Egypt, the gum had the ability to hold fake beards on the face even in the Egyptian heat. In Aromatherapy, it has potential in multiple skin care products, cosmetics, and other purposes where the need is to last on the surface of the skin from creams to sunscreen to insect repellents.  

          Labdanum absolute is a resinoid and not oil soluble in oil without some blending agent, but it is possible to slowly infuse some of the aroma into an essential oil and remove the residue for other purposes such as soap, candle, pot pourri or incense. If successful, the aroma will be difficult to copy, original and long lasting.

          Therapeutically; Labdanum absolute has potential in skin care, acne, detoxifying or cellulite formulations. Warmed in an aroma burner it has expectorant qualities to ease cough and sedative qualities for insomnia and restful sleep.

          Labdanum absolute is a mild substance with no unusual safety concerns that require specific attention. It is non-sensitizing, non-phototoxic and not carcinogenic.

Note: Not for internal use. Most essential oils cannot be taken internally, but even when they can, essential oils are highly concentrated and require dilution, special training and caution that Aroma & More does not yet provide. You can never drink any essential oils at 100% strength or diluted in water-based liquids. 

Caution: Essential oils can be harmful if used improperly. Information is provided for educational purposes only. It is up to the customer to determine if the product is right for their intended purpose. Special consideration should be made before applying essential oils to pregnant women, children or the elderly. If under a doctor's care, please consult the physician before using essential oils. If applying to skin essential oils must be diluted correctly and Aroma & More recommends testing on a small area of skin to check for reaction before attempting a full body massage. Claims have not been evaluated by the FDA.