BUDDHA WOOD ESSENTIAL OIL

Eremophila mitchellii

Buddha Wood is a member of the Figwort family native to the arid inland regions of Queensland and New South Wales. As difficult as it is to thrive in this fire-prone terrain, Buddha Wood proves to be quite the botanical Phoenix. Even if wildfires have ravaged its areal parts, it can rise from the ashes and regrow from underground nodes on its roots! Its drought-resistant, resilient nature is well-adapted to the harsh conditions of degraded landscapes, providing an oasis for birds, insects and mammals that rely on it for nourishment and shelter.

The shrubs grow to about 6 to 10m tall. In spring, they are covered by a profusion of cream to pink-coloured tubular flowers.

Although the smooth leaves contain aromatic oil, the essential oil is distilled from the bark and heartwood.

Traditional
Indigenous Australians use Buddha Wood and several of its relatives as a go-to medicine for conditions ranging from fever to rheumatism. They also burn the leaves as incense during ceremonies. In Australia, Buddha Wood oil is sold as an insecticide to combat termites. Recent research shows the oil to have anti-microbial properties.

Magical
This Tree-Phoenix signifies resilience, adaptation and renewal. The essential oil can be used as a magical perfume or aura spray for initiation ceremonies to help mobilise inner resources and prepare for life-changing transformation.

Buddha Wood resonates with the energetic dimension of Saturn, the gatekeeper. The oil can help to centre the mind and foster a sense of spiritual orientation and alignment.

Scent
Buddha Wood essential oil has a warm, woody and slightly smoky fragrance. It acts as a fixative to capture the lighter top notes in a blend. It combines well with Sandalwood, Myrtle, Cedarwood, Patchouli, Lavender, Frankincense, Clary Sage, Vetivert, and Tonka Bean.

Synonyms
Desert rosewood, False sandalwood.

Country of origin
Australia