Product Description
Rhododendron anthopogon D. Don (Ericaceae) is an evergreen shrub growing at an altitude of 3,000m -4800m asl., harvested in several regions of Nepal. This is probably one of the smallest rhododendrons. Grows to no more than 2-3 ft high. The white or yellow flowers, tinged with pink, grow in small compact clusters of 4-6 and each flower is 2 cm across. The dark green oval leaves are strongly aromatic and densely scaly underneath. This essential oil has an exotic floral aroma with lingering sweet fruity notes. When sampling this oil initially it was love at first whiff!
Extraction
Anthopogon oil is extracted by the steam distillation of leaves and aerial twigs of Rhododendron anthopogon. The yield percentage of Anthopogon oil ranged from 0.26 to 0.6% on a fresh weight basis.
Uses
Leaves and flowers of Anthopogon are used as incense. The pounded leaves and flowers are used in stomach, liver and lung disorders, cold and cough, indigestion, skin diseases, blood purification, and promote heat. Flowers are used in gastritis, cold, sore throat, and phlegm disorders.
Anthopogon oil is reported to have antimicrobial, antibacterial, antifungal, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antitoxic, astringent, carminative, diuretic, and sedative activities. It is used to revitalize the nervous system. The oil is used as a fragrance component in cosmetics and perfumery.