Spikenard

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Nardostachys jatamansi

Other Names : Nardostachys jatamansi, American Spikenard, Anis Sauvage, Aralia à Grappes, Aralia racemosa, Aralie Épineuse, Aralie à Grappes, Espinardo Americano, Grande Salsepareille, Indian Root, Life-of-Man, Life of Man, Old Man's Root, Pettymorell, Salsepareille d’Amérique, Spignet, Small Spikenard, Spikenard, Nardostachys Jatamansi, Jatamansi oil, Himalayan spikenard, Nard, Nardin, muskroot
Spikenard is a plant. The root is used to make medicine. Spikenard essential oil is a substance used in aromatherapy. Sourced from Nardostachys jatamansi (a plant in the valerian family), this essential oil has a strong, earthy scent.

Special Precautions of Spikenard

  • Do not take spikenard essential oil internally.
  • Though the potential for skin irriation is low, do not apply directly to the eyes or mucous membranes. If applied directly to the skin, it might be irritating.
  • Pregnancy and breast-feeding: It’s UNSAFE to use American spikenard if you are pregnant. It’s also best to avoid using it if you are breast-feeding, since there isn’t enough information to know whether or not it is safe for a nursing infant.
  • See precautions Aromatherapy

Benefits and uses of Spikenard are

Jatamansi oil is one of the most effective essential oils for supporting a calm mind and balanced body. Those who suffer from worry or other overly active and mental habits will benefit immensely from regular use of this special oil. Jatamansi is calming and grounding and is highly revered for its ability to support deep sleep and to help one work through and release subconscious trauma. Spikenard oil is similar in quality to valerian, but is considered preferable because it is less dulling in its effects and possesses a sweeter and more pleasant fragrance.

  • Stress, anxiety and insomnia : It is said to have a calming effect, spikenard essential oil is often used to alleviate anxiety, stress, and insomnia. A 2009 study from the Indian Journal of Biochemistry & Biophysics, found that spikenard extract helped reduce stress in rats.
  • It's also said to help treat the following health problems:
    • athlete's foot
    • constipation
    • dandruff
    • depression
  • A preliminary research includes a 2006 study from the Journal of Medicinal Food, which found that spikenard extract helped improve memory in mice,
    • menstrual cramps
    • migraines
  • In addition, spikenard essential oil is thought to help destroy bacteria and fungi.
  • It's also purported to reduce inflammation.