What is Ravensara?
Ravensara mostly refers to an essential oil distilled from leaves from trees in the Laurel family that are specifically from Madagascar. Most often you’ll see the oil listed as ravensara aromatica or it may also be called clove nutmeg oil, though it contains neither cloves nor nutmeg. It has a sweet scent, which some people compare to a less strong version of eucalyptus, and others compare to the scent of rosemary. The essential oil has been gaining popularity in various aromatherapy treatments for health purposes. Companies selling the product claim that it is an excellent anti-viral agent, and when used in vaporizers it can help clear congestion of the sinuses and the respiratory system in general. There are some studies that suggest ravensara aromatica, which may also be called agatophyllum aromaticum, has some potential carcinogens, though some manufacturers selling the oil say it is safe for children. Most versions of ravensara contain a small amount of methyl eugenol, which has b