Erigeron essential oil is a rare and precious oil with a complex aroma that is produced in small quantities. This oil is steam-distilled from the aerial parts of the Erigeron plant, which is a member of the Asteraceae family. Erigeron is native to North America, where it grows in temperate climates, but it is also cultivated in other regions of the world.
Erigeron essential oil is often referred to as Canadian Fleabane, Fleawort, Prideweed, Flea Bane, Horseweed, or Mare's Tail. It is a pale yellow to greenish-yellow liquid with a fresh, herbaceous, and slightly sweet aroma. The oil has a medium to strong initial impact, with a long-lasting and tenacious dry down.
Erigeron essential oil is highly recommended for perfumery, where it contributes complex, unique, and mysterious tenacious notes in herbaceous, chypres, and Fougere blends. It is particularly brilliant in evergreen type colognes and those with Petitgrain or Neroli notes. To our nose, the aroma resembles herbaceous green notes found in Petitgrain combined with a sweet basil-like top note and slightly musky-earthy back notes. The complexity of Erigeron is truly remarkable.
Apart from its use in perfumery, Erigeron is also an astringent that tightens the skin and can be used in skin creams and lotions to help reverse signs of aging. It also may be beneficial for rosacea and the reduction of capillary vessels on the face.
According to Connie and Alan Higley in their writings (Reference Guide for Essential Oils), Fleabane "is a rare essential oil studied by Daniel Pénoël, M.D. for its ability to stimulate the pancreas and liver and counteract retarded puberty. It is a mood enhancer and promoter of hGH."
Suzanne Catty states that Erigeron essential oil is "experimental and topically used as an anti-inflammatory for muscular and joint pain and for edema. It has been explored for phytohormone properties, particularly in both late-onset and early puberty. Researchers are investigating its use in treating perimenopausal symptoms and report some positive results." She also mentions research in "veterinary medicine as a treatment for high blood pressure, as an anti-inflammatory for pain relief, for its ability to lower body temperature and reduce fevers, and for its use in insecticidal and flea preparations".
Erigeron is traditionally used by Native Americans in sweat lodges, shamanic journeying, and for purifying and clearing space. When White Sage is seasonally unavailable, Erigeron can be substituted.
Although Erigeron essential oil is known to have good insect repellent properties, it is not very cost-effective compared to other less costly essential oils with repellent qualities such as Citronella. Therefore, it is not commonly used for this purpose.
In summary, Erigeron essential oil is a rare and highly valued oil with a range of potential benefits. Its unique aroma, astringent properties, and potential therapeutic effects make it an excellent choice for perfumery, skincare, and aromatherapy. However, it is important to be aware of foreign-produced Erigeron, which is often adulterated and may not retain the beneficial properties of authentic oil.
Shopping