Amyris balsamifera
Other names: Amyris ambrosiaca, Indian sandalwood
Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)
Amyris balsamifera, also known as Amyris ambrosiaca or Indian sandalwood, is a species of plant in the Rutaceae family found mainly in Haiti and other Caribbean regions. It is an evergreen shrub or small tree that can grow up to 12 metres tall. Its bark is thick and scaly and is light grey in colour. The leaves are lanceolate, light green and are arranged alternately on the branches. The flowers are small, white or pinkish and smell of citrus. The fruits are small, spherical, smooth and ripe light brown.
Amyris balsamifera is mainly used in perfumery and aromatherapy for its sweet, woody and balsamic aroma, which is often compared to the scent of sandalwood. The wood produces an essential oil that is used to make perfumes, scented candles and soaps. The wood is also burned as incense in religious ceremonies. Because of its antibacterial and soothing properties, the essential oil is also used in aromatherapy. In cosmetics, it is used for its moisturizing and regenerating properties and is a component of various creams, lip balms and body oils. Amyris balsamifera also has potential in medicine for its antifungal and antibacterial properties. As a medicinal plant it is used in the treatment of wounds and burns. Despite this wide range of uses, Amyris balsamifera is a lesser known plant and more research is still being done on it.
Amyris balsamifera can be found in the following products
