Agar Oil

Agar oil is one of essential oil. Agar oil is used mainly in perfumes and incense sticks. It easily blends with other essential oils and is widely used in aromatherapy. The oil is also used in many Ayurvedic medicines.

About agar oil

Often referred to as the "Otto of Roses," agar oil has been in use since prehistoric times. The Bible too mentions the use of agar. "Harsha Charita," an ancient Sanskrit text, penned in 652 AD, mentions agar leaves as one of the prized gifts given to Kings.

Oil is extracted from the bark of the Aquillaria Agallocha Roxb tree. Interestingly, it is actually a fungus, which is responsible for the sweet smell of the oil. The rare fungus, which attaches itself to the bark of the tree turns the color of the bark a deep brownish black shade.

The less dark colored barks are separated, and softened by placing them inside water drums. After the wood softens it is then ground into a powder and then oil is extracted using steam and water distillation process. Oil is carefully extracted from the water surface, using a syringe. Stored in glass bottles, it is left to dry in the sun.

Uses of agar oil

1. Agar oil is mainly used in perfumes.
2. The bark is often burned as incense sticks, releasing the aromatic odor of agar.
3. Many mouth freshening agents are often flavored with agar.
4. Ayurvedic and Unani medicine often use agar oil.

Tips for using agar oil

1. If you are using it for the first time, it is recommended that you test before using. This will eliminate the possibility of allergies.
2. Consult your doctor before using, if you are under medication.
3. Agar oil blends well with other essential oils like ylang ylang, rose and jasmine.

source : www.beautytipshub.com