by Melissa Chichester
The warm and sensual aroma of rosewood may not be as familiar as those of its woodsy neighbors (like frankincense and cedarwood), but fragrance connoisseurs who love Chanel No. 5 will find it both familiar and intriguing.
Chopsticks, flooring, and guitars: what do these have in common? All have been made out of the rosewood tree; however, it was French perfumery that brought this aromatic Brazilian tree to stardom. With an extensive history of use in French manufacturing, its popularity took an upturn when couturier Gabrielle Chanel released Chanel No. 5 in 1921 with rosewood as a distinctive heart note. Rosewood oil is extracted with steam distillation from wood chips; however, in recent years manufacturers have been boiling leaves and branches to extract oil in a more environmentally friendly way.
Separate the words “rose” and “wood” and you may expect a heavy or even stuffy scent; however, rosewood oil is surprisingly light and unexpectedly fruity. It blends well with tree-based scents like cedarwood and frankincense, floral scents like geranium and ylang-ylang, and even herbaceous oils like rosemary.
In a small bowl, whip the argan oil and shea butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 10 minutes. Add essential oils, and mix. Continuing to mix, slowly add the jojoba oil. To use, start with a dime-sized amount, run through hair, and style as usual. Use more or less mousse depending on hair texture and length. Store in a dark glass jar to protect from light.
Transfer boiling water from the stovetop to a glass bowl. Lean over the bowl, keeping your face about one foot away from it. Put a towel over your head and sides of the bowl so it drapes and guides the steam up towards your face. Sit for 10 minutes, or until the water cools. The steam will open up pores and release bacteria. Follow up with a toner and moisturizer to lock in hydration. An alternative to using hot water is to use room temperature water from a nebulizing diffuser
Pour the almond oil into an 8-ounce glass jar with a mouth large enough to hold 10 bamboo skewers. Half of the skewers will be in the oil, and half will stick outside of the jar. Add essential oils to the top, and insert bamboo skewers. The skewers will absorb the fragrance and diffuse into the room.
In a small glass bowl, gently mix all ingredients. To use, rub a small amount onto face and massage gently to remove impurities and makeup. Rinse with warm water and store the remainder in an airtight glass jar.
Add all oils to your favorite diffuser and immerse yourself in a sweet, floral paradise.
Cut the sponges in half and place them in an airtight container. In a small bowl, mix the water, hair conditioner, and oils. Pour the mixture evenly over the sponges. The sponges will be ready to use within 5 minutes because they absorb the mixture quickly. To use, remove one of the sponges and squeeze out excess water. Place in the dryer with laundry, and put it back into the container after use. Replace the mixture after one month.
Pour water into a large glass bowl. Add essential oils to the surface of the warm water, but do not mix. Instead, let the oils spread naturally. Place the washcloth flat on top of the water, and let it absorb the water and oils. Wring out and gently press against sore muscles. Apply until the water has cooled.
Mix all ingredients in a small bowl. Boil a large bowl of water (enough to cover both feet) and let sit until it cools to a warming, comfortable temperature. Scoop two tablespoons of the salt and oil mixture into the bowl and stir. Soak feet for 10-15 minutes.
Mix all ingredients in a glass bowl until the powder is absorbed. The texture will not be as creamy as traditional lotion, but thinner and drier. Smooth over skin on affected areas, or areas prone to chafing, and store in an airtight jar when not in use.
Add ingredients to your favorite diffuser for a refreshing and cleansing.
What are some different ways you use rosewood oil?
Warning – essential oils are not for internal use. Never apply undiluted oil directly to skin.
