Our organic armoise essential oil is a middle note steam-distilled from Artemisia herba-alba, and is sometimes known as white wormwood, armoise blanche, or desert wormwood. A silvery-grey and supremely aromatic shrub, armoise flourishes in the harsh conditions of the Moroccan desert. This beautiful oil can be used in blends or aromatherapy. Used sparingly, it adds green and ethereal notes to perfume. It can also be used in diffusers to support healthy breathing and cleansing the air.
Armoise oil is part of the Genus Artemisia which includes common mugwort, tarragon, and sagebrush. The names mugwort and wormwood are often used interchangeably as common names for many Artemisia species, and they are all well-known for their aromatic nature and typical bitterness. These botanicals are named for the Greek goddess Artemis, whose connection to the Moon is attributed to the silvery green leaves.
Aroma
This oil is bright, fresh, and powerfully aromatic. Its green and herbaceous body reveals sweet and minty notes as it dries down.
Constituents
Main constituents include camphor, α-thujone, β-thujone, and camphene. Camphor will be found in some species of lavender, rosemary, and sage. α-Thujone and β-thujone are both found in western red cedar oil.
Blending and Uses
Armoise oil is a pungent middle note, and as such we recommend using it at no more than a 0.25% dilution in blends for topical use due to the thujone content. Use drop-by-drop when adding to blends so as not to overpower other oils.
When used in perfume blends it helps to lift top note oils and adds soft and spectral notes. It’s especially beautiful in forested aromatic blends with cedarwood, juniper berry, or sage.
Include this oil in diffuser or salve blends with rosemary, peppermint, or eucalyptus to support breathing. Armoise also supports mental clarity and helps to uplift the mood. It blends well with davana, lavender, patchouli, spearmint, and other herbaceous oils.
Packaging
1/2 oz. and 1 oz. essential oils are packaged in amber glass bottles with drop reducers for easy application. Larger sizes are packaged in amber screw cap bottles and do not come with reducers or droppers.
Safety
This oil is expected to be neurotoxic based on camphor and thujone content. Avoid while pregnant. Never use essential oils undiluted, in eyes or mucus membranes. Do not take internally unless working with a qualified healthcare practitioner. Keep away from children and pets.
Before using perform a small patch test on your inner forearm or back. Apply a small quantity of properly diluted essential oil and cover with a bandage. If you experience any irritation use carrier oil or cream to further dilute the essential oil on the skin, and wash with soap and water. If no irritation occurs after 48 hours, it is safe to use on your skin. Learn more about using essential oils here.