Howood Essential oil China

Shiu wood, commonly called Ho-wood, is originally from China. This tree grows in tropical and subtropical climates and prefers well-watered soil and a sunny or semi-shaded exposure. Its Latin name is Cinnamomum camphora and Ho-wood belongs to the Lauraceae family. It is of the same botanical genus as Ravintsara and cinnamon. Though of the same species, Ravintsara and Ho-wood differ in their chemical compositions. Ho-wood’s high linalool content gives the tree bark floral notes, while the high concentration of cineole in the bark of Ravintsara exudes fresh notes. The smell of Ho-wood, greatly valued in perfumery, is reminiscent of rosewood. Moreover, it served as the ideal substitute for the significantly pricier rosewood. The high linalool content in Ho-wood essential oil means it has many uses in aromatherapy, including as an anti-infective. Ho-wood adds delicate woody notes to fragrances, along with floral and aqueous facets. Ho-wood essential oil is the result of steam distillation of the bark, followed by rectification.

The first descriptions of the use of Cinnamomum camphora dates back to the travels of Marco Polo. The explorer reported that Ho-wood essential oil was being used in China. Ho-wood is now widespread in China, Japan, and Taiwan, with China being the biggest producer of this species. The year 1920 was when the similarities with rosewood were established and Ho-wood essential oil came to be seen as profitable. Cinnamomum camphora is also known as the camphor tree. Ho-wood and Ravintsara differ from “traditional” camphor by virtue of their chemotype. In China, the camphor tree is prized for its timber, used to make storage boxes and furniture, but also for the resin extracted therefrom.

Advised uses : Perfumery, Cosmetic