Delicate flowers of boronia shrub are the source of highly valuable essence with a unique aroma. Read on to learn more about how boronia absolute can be used to the benefit of your health and well-being. We combined all aroma knowledge to the list of the essential oils with the description of use.
What is boronia?
In the Western part of far-away Australia grows a rare shrub belonging to the rue family (all citrus trees belong to this family as well). This evergreen shrub (up to 2 m/21 feet) has small leaves and unusually fragrant bell-shaped flowers in red, white, and pink. Boronia is an extremely decorative plant capable of decorating not only the garden landscape but also the home interior. After flowering, the petals close, and the flowers, like bright miniature lanterns, flare up on the branches for a while longer.
This beautiful shrub has been cultivated since Queen Victoria’s time. There are shrubs with flowers of unusual color: on the outside the petals are colored dark brown and on the inside yellow. Because of the dark color of the flowers and leaves in those days, boronia was often planted near the tombs. In Victorian England, for example, boronia was often planted in cemeteries because of the somewhat gloomy coloring of the upper part of the flower.
Presently there are about 15 species of this shrub in Australia differing mainly in the color of flowers. in Europe, this plant is seldomly cultivated because of its high sensitivity to variations of humidity or temperatures.
Its flowers are wonderfully fragrant, almost magical, and its essential oil is highly valued in perfumery, as it seems to combine the aromas of the rare Farnese acacia, violets, and fruits: peach, raspberry, and apricot. Many notice hints of spices in its fragrance, especially anise.
Boronia absolute is one of the rare and expensive ingredients used exclusively in elite and niche perfumery.
Major constituents
- b-ionone
- a-ionone
- triacontane
- eugenol
- caprylic and palmitic acids
- β-Damascone
- β-damascenone
- oxoedulan I
- oxoedulan II
- theaspirone
- 4-oxo-β-ionone
- 3-oxo-α-ionone
- dihydroactinidiolide
- safranal
- β-cyclocitral
Main characteristics
Extraction method: concretes and absolutes are obtained from flowers by enfleurage or petroleum ether extraction. In some cases, boronia essential oil is also extracted in small quantities by steam distillation.
Physical characteristics: boronia absolute is a green viscous liquid.
Aroma: intense, fresh floral aroma with herbal notes.
Solubility: perfectly soluble in alcohol. Insoluble in oil and water.
Compatibility with other essential oils: bergamot, clary sage, sandalwood, violet, helichrysum, costus, mimosa, and other flowers.
Boronia absolute uses and benefits
This aromatic essence is widely used in perfumery but its unique properties also make it very useful in medicine, cosmetology, and aromatherapy.
Healing properties
Boronia absolute is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It’s also quite effective when it comes to relieving anxiety and stress.
Cosmetic benefits
- Boronia absolute is useful in cosmetics. Specifically, as a component of products for skin treatment.
- Helps eliminate acne and pimples.
- It’s a powerful antioxidant.
- Protects the skin from premature aging.
Uses
Boronia is often a component of various products such as:
- Floral perfume compositions.
- Creams, lotions, tonics for problem skin.
- Anti-acne products.
- Soaps.
- Bath oils, foams, and salts.
- Deodorants.
Side effects and precautions
Boronia absolute is non-toxic but remember to always check your essential oils for individual intolerance and allergic reactions. Apply a drop of the product to the inside of your elbow and wait for an hour or two for any skin reactions.
Don’t use undiluted. Do not ingest.
