Family: Burceaceae
Part of the Plant Used: Tree bark, gum resin
Area of world which it is grown: Phillippines, Moluccas
Some interesting notes about Elemi: The greater part of the world’s supply of the species Canarium luzonicum, also called Manila Elemi, is derived from the Philippines and is known locally by the Spanish term “brea blanca” (white pitch). It is found in primary forests in Luzon and some other islands of the Philippines. The Elemi tree is known locally as "Pili" and the gum (also called "oleoresin") is exported from Manila in two qualities: "Primera" which is cleaned gum and "Secunda" which is still crude and unclean.
The name elemi is applied commercially to a large number of resins. Canarium is a genus of big shade trees in the Old World tropics, extending from Malaysia, Philipines to the Pacific Islands. It is a large tree up to 35m tall and 1m in diameter. Other varieties of elemi are found in Australia, Africa and India, as well as Central and South America. The Canarium family also contains the olive tree.
Manila Elemi is exported from the Philippines in considerable quantities. Some is shipped to Europe for use in preparing medicinal ointments and essential oils. Occasionally is is used as an ingredient in lacquers, varnishes and paints. Elemi is in the same botanical family as Frankincense and was often referred to as the "poor man's Frankincense". The resin is harvested in much the same way as Frankincense and requires great skill. There is some concern that the trees may become endangered if not tapped properly. Excessive damage during tapping can result in the death of the tree either directly or because of fungi gaining access to the wood through the cuts.
Canarium luzanicum resin
Canarium luzanicum tree
History of Elemi: The name "elemi" comes from an Arabic phrase meaning "above and below", signifying its relationship to connecting emotions and spirit. Elemi was probably one of the first aromatics used by the ancient Egyptians to embalm the dead, along with frankincense, myrrh, galbanum and Lebanese cedar. It is also documented that the Egyptians used it in their daily skincare preparations as well as in medicinal salves, poultices, unguents and incense. During the 16th century elemi was introduced into Europe and was used extensively in folk medicine. It was employed in poultices for ulcerated wounds, ointments and soothing balms for skin infections, and is reputed to have been included in the celebrated healing ointments ‘Baume au Fioravanti’ and ‘Baume paralytique’. (I really wanted to find a picture of one of these online, but couldn't. If you find one, let me know.)
Francisco Manuel Blanco was a monk of the Augustinian order, (sorry, I couldn't find a picture). He is the author of the first comprehensive flora of the Philippines, Flora de Filipinas. Según el sistema de Linneo (Flora of the Philippines according to the system of Linnaeus). I couldn't find a drawing of Canarius luzonicum in his book, but since he was from the Philippines and had an extensive knowledge of the plants from the region, including Canarium luzonicum, I thought you might like to know about him and his beautiful plant drawings. Here's a link: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Francisco_Manuel_Blanco,_Flora_de_Filipinas.
Characteristics of Elemi: The EO has a colorless to pale yellow color. It has a fresh, citrusy fragrance, with balsamic, slightly green and sweet, floral undertones. According to Steffan Arctander, who wrote, "Perfume and Flavor Materials of Natural Origin", Canarium luzonicum has been found as an adulterant in lemon oil, black pepper oil, dill weed oil and angelica seed oil. It has a slightly oil feel when rubbed between the fingers. It may evaporate slower than some other oils, but leaves no stain on the blotter.
Here's the link to Amazon for the book: http://www.amazon.com/Perfume-Flavor-Materials-Natural-Origin/dp/0931710367
http://www.naturalsourcing.com/msds/MSDS_Essential_Oil_Elemi.pdf
Scientific Studies with Elemi oil: One study demonstrated elemi oil's fungicidal and insecticidal properties: species of decay fungi were completely eliminated with 2.5% concentration in an agar medium. At 5% concentration, all fungi tested were eliminated. Mold species were inhibited. It was found to be toxic to dry wood termites at 10% - 20% concentration.
Some medicinal uses for Elemi Oil: Due to its drying action (styptic) elemi oil is good for lung issues, such as bronchitis and as an expectorant for coughs. It is also helpful for dysentery and diarrhea for this reason. It is an immune system tonic and exhibits rejuvenating, stimulating and antiseptic properties. It has been reported throughout history as a good wash for wounds. It has also been used for centuries in plasters and ointments, as well as skin care salves. It is said to promote a healthy complexion and is especially good on dry or mature skin. It is also parasitic and can be used on mold and mildew.
Recommended Dosage for Elemi Oil:
Adult: Internally - 1 to 3 drps. 3x daily
Externally - 1 to 5 drps. in the bath, inhalation or topically
Cautions and Contraindications: Elemi if generally considered safe and non-toxic, non-irritant and non-sensitizing in low doses. Elemi oil has a Toxic rating of I and requires a skin patch test if being used directly on the skin. Two important constituents that may be toxic in Elemi are phellandrene and elemecin. Tisserand and Balacs cite two studies that showed a low level of genotoxicity for elemicin. There is some evidence that elemimicin is carcinogenic, but insufficient to contraindicate the oil. The resin may produce skin sensitivity. It is best to avoid in pregnancy and with babies and young children.
Household and perfume uses for Elemi: Used in soaps and useful in detergent-like cleaners. It is also useful in air fresheners. The gum has been used in ointments and plasters as a local stimulant. It is used primarily as a fixative in the perfume industry. IT has a light, fresh, lemony, almost pepper-like fragrance. Elemi blends well with cinnamon bark, frankincense, lavandin, lavender, myrrh, rosemary, sage, verbena, and all spice oils.
Elemi Canarium luzonicum oil: 20 drops
Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis oil: 10 drops
Lavender Lavandula angustifolia oil: 10 drops
Myrhh Commiphora myrrha oil: 5 drops
Blend oils and add 20 drops to 2 cups of boiled cool water. Bathe cuts and wounds at least three times a day with sterile gauze.
