Agarwood: The Surprising Benefits, Uses and More

Agarwood, also known as ‘Oud’ or Agaru, is a type of evergreen plant valued for its fragrant wood. It’s often used in making incense and perfumes because of its strong, pleasant smell, although it has a bitter taste.

Using Agarwood can help with joint pain and conditions like rheumatoid arthritis because it has properties that reduce pain and inflammation. According to Ayurveda, regularly massaging joints with Agarwood oil can ease joint pain by balancing Vata. Agarwood powder mixed with honey may also help clear excess mucus from the respiratory tract and manage bronchitis because it has warming properties and balances Kapha.

Agarwood has antioxidants that may protect the liver from damage caused by free radicals and can reduce liver inflammation. Additionally, applying Agarwood oil mixed with coconut oil on the skin can help manage skin conditions like eczema because of its healing properties.

Some other names for Agarwood are Aquilaria agallocha, Lauha, Krmija, Agarkashtha, Agar Chandan, Eagle Wood, Agar, Krishna Agarwood, Akil, Ooda, Pharsi, Akil kattai, Ood.

What is Agarwood?

garwood is a highly valued wood known for its wonderful smell. People use it to make oil, perfume, incense, and effective herbal medicines. It’s really famous worldwide.

It’s even more expensive than gold! Agarwood comes from the bark of certain trees. The resin and oil from this wood are used in cosmetics and Ayurvedic medicines.

The resin and oil come from affected wood, which is often called “liquid gold.” Some special Agarwood trees produce this resin, making it one of the most expensive extracts globally.

People use Agarwood oil and extract in beauty products, skincare, and cosmetics. It’s been used for treating various diseases for a long time because it has strong medicinal properties. Agarwood trees are evergreen and grow up to 1500 meters above sea level.

In India, Agarwood is found in places like the East Himalayas, Meghalaya, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Tripura, Mizoram, and Assam.

Agarwood has many medicinal benefits. The tree can grow up to 40 meters tall and 12 meters wide. It likes soil made from hard rocks or sandy loam from sandstones.

The tree has thin, smooth, pale bark. Its branches are slender, pale brown, and have fine hairs. Agarwood has simple, alternate leaves with shiny surfaces and 12-16 pairs of veins.

Its fruit is 3-4 cm long, oval or cylindrical, and smooth. The seeds are oval-shaped and about 4 mm long, growing from the base of the fruit.

Medicinal Properties of Agarwood

Agarwood has several medicinal properties that make it valuable in traditional medicine. Here are some simplified explanations of its benefits:

Agarwood is good for reducing inflammation in the body, which means it helps to decrease swelling and pain caused by inflammation.

It can also work as a pain reliever, helping to reduce pain sensations in the body.

Agarwood is believed to have aphrodisiac properties, which means it may help to increase sexual desire or performance.

For people with arthritis, agarwood can help by reducing symptoms and inflammation in the joints.

It also has antipruritic properties, meaning it can help relieve itching on the skin.

Agarwood acts as a digestive stimulant, which means it can help improve digestion and relieve digestive issues.

It has demulcent properties, soothing and protecting irritated or inflamed internal tissues.

For women, agarwood is believed to have emmenagogue properties, which means it can help stimulate menstrual flow.

It works as an expectorant, helping to expel mucus from the respiratory tract.

Agarwood can help relax muscles, relieving tension and promoting relaxation.

It also acts as a carminative, helping to reduce gas and bloating in the digestive system.

In simple terms, agarwood can reduce inflammation and pain, improve digestion, relieve itching, and even have effects on sexual desire and menstruation.

How to Use Agarwood

Agarwood powder is typically consumed in small amounts, usually once or twice a day. Here’s how you can use it:

1. Agarwood Powder: Agarwood powder comes in a powdered form and is used in small quantities for its benefits.

a. Measure the Powder: Take ¼ to ½ teaspoon of Agarwood Powder.

b. Mix or Drink: You can mix the Agarwood Powder with honey for taste or simply take it with lukewarm water.

•           If you prefer mixing: Add honey to the powder.

•           If you prefer drinking: Take the measured powder with lukewarm water.

c. Frequency: Take it once or twice a day as recommended.

Using Agarwood in this way can help you incorporate it into your routine easily and enjoy its benefits.

Benefits of Agarwood

Agarwood offers various health benefits that can help with common health issues. Here’s how it can help:

Cough and Cold Relief

Agarwood is effective in managing cough and cold symptoms. It helps to control cough, clear mucus, and open air passages, making breathing easier. This is because Agarwood balances the Kapha dosha, according to Ayurveda. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Agarwood powder, mix with honey, and have it after lunch and dinner until symptoms improve.

Bronchitis Relief

For bronchitis and related cough issues, Agarwood aids digestion and helps remove excess mucus from the lungs. It balances Kapha dosha and improves digestion, essential for managing bronchitis symptoms.Same as above for cough and cold relief.

Improves Appetite

Agarwood helps improve appetite and digestion by stimulating digestion. It balances the digestive fire and treats loss of appetite caused by weak digestion.Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Agarwood powder with lukewarm water after lunch and dinner.

Joint Pain Relief

Agarwood, applied topically or as oil, reduces joint pain by balancing the Vata dosha, which is associated with joints according to Ayurveda.

Skin Disease Control

Agarwood oil helps control skin diseases like eczema by reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

Sensitivity to Cold

Agarwood’s warming effect helps reduce sensitivity to cold. Applying Agarwood paste or oil externally can alleviate sensitivity to cold.

Tips: Make a paste with Agarwood powder, apply to affected area once a day, and wash off after 1-2 hours.

Fights Microbial Infections

Agarwood oil has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties that prevent skin infections and acne. It’s used in various cosmetic products.

Helps in Weight Loss

Agarwood leaf tea helps in weight loss. Drink six cups of Agarwood tea daily for better results.

Bad Breath and Oral Odor

Agarwood helps reduce bad breath and oral odor, preventing oral diseases. Regular consumption or use of Agarwood resin helps in oral health.

Acts as Antidepressant

Agarwood leaves act as antidepressants, calming the mind and relieving tension.

Manages Blood Pressure

Agarwood stabilizes and reduces high blood pressure due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Improves Energy

Agarwood leaf tea increases energy levels and eliminates toxins from the body.

Acts as Anti-Ageing

Agarwood oil contains antioxidants that reduce signs of premature aging and regenerate healthy skin cells.

Treats Sleep Disorders

Agarwood tea helps treat sleep disorders by providing relaxation and calming effects.

Provides Sun Protection

Agarwood protects the skin from sunburn and tanning with its natural UV-protective factors.

Relieves Pain and Arthritic Conditions

Agarwood has analgesic properties that relieve pain and inflammation in arthritis and rheumatism.

Aids Digestion

Agarwood improves digestion and prevents bloating and indigestion.

Treats Asthma

Agarwood is effective against asthma and respiratory diseases.

Cures Swelling

Agarwood helps in reducing swelling on the body.

Relieves Migraine

Agarwood’s painkiller effect helps relieve migraines.

Treats Excessive Sweating

Agarwood treats excessive sweating.

Treats Snake Bites

Agarwood is used as a remedy for snake bites.

Cures Breast Cancer

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Agarwood oil has shown potential in inhibiting breast cancer cell growth.

Improves Sexual Health

Agarwood is used traditionally to improve sexual health and vitality.

Incorporating Agarwood into your routine can offer various health benefits naturally.

Benefits of Agarwood oils

Agarwood oil, derived from agarwood, is a natural ingredient known for its benefits to the skin. Here’s why using agarwood oil can be good for your skin:

Firstly, it reduces inflammation and redness on the skin, making it helpful for soothing irritated skin.

Secondly, agarwood oil can enhance skin tone and texture, giving your skin a healthier look and feel.

It’s effective in treating various skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and more due to its healing properties.

Agarwood oil, also known as oud oil, has been used for centuries in the Middle East and Asia. It has a sweet, woody fragrance and is traditionally used to alleviate anxiety, depression, stress, and insomnia.

Moreover, agarwood oil is beneficial for the skin. It’s known to be helpful in treating skin issues such as eczema and psoriasis.

The benefits of agarwood oil are broad and versatile. It can be used in different ways: you can apply it directly to your skin or even take it internally as a supplement.

Specifically for skin benefits, agarwood oil improves the appearance of scars, wrinkles, and age spots. It also has anti-inflammatory properties which make it effective against conditions like psoriasis and eczema.

Agarwood oil is even helpful in treating acne. In a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, participants using agarwood oil in their skincare routine experienced significant reductions in both the number and severity of their acne lesions.

Precautions for Using Agarwood

Breastfeeding:

Modern science doesn’t have enough evidence about the safety of using Agarwood while breastfeeding. It’s better to avoid using Agarwood during this time, or if necessary, use it only under medical supervision.

Patients with Diabetes:

Modern science hasn’t gathered sufficient evidence about using Agarwood if you’re taking anti-diabetic drugs. It’s safer to avoid Agarwood or use it only under medical supervision if you have diabetes.

Patients with Heart Disease:

There isn’t enough scientific evidence about using Agarwood if you’re taking anti-hypertensive drugs for heart disease. It’s recommended to avoid Agarwood or use it only under medical supervision in such cases.

Pregnancy:

Modern science hasn’t collected adequate evidence about the safety of using Agarwood during pregnancy. It’s better to avoid Agarwood during pregnancy or use it only under medical supervision if necessary.

Summarizing Benefits of Agarwoods

1.         Soothing Properties: Agarwood has soothing properties that help calm irritated skin.

2.         Anti-inflammatory: It reduces inflammation on the skin, making it beneficial for various skin conditions.

3.         Reduces Redness: Agarwood oil helps in reducing redness associated with skin irritation.

4.         Improves Skin Tone: Regular use of agarwood oil can improve skin tone and complexion.

5.         Enhances Skin Texture: It helps in making the skin smoother and more even-textured.

6.         Treats Eczema: Agarwood oil is effective in soothing and treating eczema flare-ups.

7.         Treats Psoriasis: It can alleviate symptoms of psoriasis and promote healing.

8.         Moisturizing: Agarwood oil moisturizes the skin, keeping it hydrated and supple.

9.         Anti-aging: It helps in reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

10.       Reduces Scarring: Agarwood oil aids in fading scars and blemishes over time.

11.       Fights Acne: It has antibacterial properties that combat acne-causing bacteria.

12.       Balances Sebum Production: Agarwood oil helps in regulating sebum production, reducing greasiness.

13.       Antioxidant: It has antioxidant properties that protect the skin from free radical damage.

14.       Improves Blood Circulation: Agarwood oil stimulates blood flow to the skin, promoting a healthy complexion.

15.       Relieves Itching: It provides relief from itching caused by dryness or skin conditions.

16.       Calms Rosacea: Agarwood oil can soothe the symptoms of rosacea.

17.       Anti-fungal: It helps in fighting fungal infections on the skin.

18.       Natural Perfume: Agarwood’s fragrance serves as a natural perfume, leaving a pleasant scent on the skin.

19.       Reduces Stress: Its aroma helps in reducing stress and promoting relaxation.

20.       Alleviates Anxiety: Agarwood oil is known for its calming effects, reducing anxiety levels.

21.       Promotes Sleep: The aroma of agarwood oil aids in better sleep and alleviates insomnia.

22.       Boosts Confidence: Clearer, healthier skin from agarwood oil can boost confidence levels.

23.       Soothes Sunburns: It provides relief and aids in healing sunburnt skin.

24.       Protects from Environmental Damage: Agarwood oil forms a protective barrier against environmental pollutants.

25.       Balances pH Levels: It helps in maintaining the skin’s natural pH balance.

26.       Promotes Cell Regeneration: Agarwood oil promotes the regeneration of skin cells, aiding in skin renewal.

27.       Reduces Dark Spots: It helps in fading dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

28.       Improves Elasticity: Agarwood oil enhances skin elasticity, making it firmer.

29.       Gentle Exfoliation: It provides gentle exfoliation, removing dead skin cells and impurities.

30.       Hydrates Lips: Agarwood oil can be used to hydrate and nourish chapped lips.

Conclusion

In conclusion, agarwood presents itself as a fascinating natural resource with a myriad of surprising benefits and versatile uses. From its profound skincare properties, including soothing inflammation and enhancing complexion, to its traditional role in promoting relaxation and alleviating stress, agarwood’s potential is extensive and diverse. Its therapeutic properties extend beyond skincare, offering solutions for mental well-being and environmental protection. As we delve deeper into understanding and harnessing its potential, agarwood stands out as a remarkable substance that bridges ancient wisdom with modern applications. Whether it’s in the form of essential oil, incense, or medicinal treatments, agarwood continues to captivate with its remarkable qualities, promising a world of wellness and holistic enrichment for those who explore its depths.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Agarwood cause hyperacidity?

Agarwood is believed to improve digestion and maintain a healthy digestive system according to Ayurveda. However, if you have aggravated Pitta or hyperacidity, it’s better to avoid Agarwood or use it in small amounts. This is because Agarwood has a hot property (Ushna), which may worsen hyperacidity.

Can Agarwood enhance sexual power?

There isn’t enough scientific evidence to confirm Agarwood’s role in enhancing sexual power. However, it may increase sexual desire because of its aphrodisiac property.

Can Agarwood be used for reducing swelling?

Yes, Agarwood might help reduce swelling as it possesses anti-inflammatory properties. It works by inhibiting mediators (cytokines) responsible for inflammation, thus managing inflammation and swelling.

Is Agarwood beneficial in fevers?

Yes, Agarwood might help manage fever as it has antipyretic properties, which means it helps lower body temperature. Agarwood oil can be used internally or applied on the body to help manage fever.

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