Spikenard Essential Oil – Nepal – Nardostachys jatamansi

Spikenard Essential Oil – Nepal – Nardostachys jatamansi

Spikenard, scientifically known as Nardostachys jatamansi, is a perennial flowering plant native to the Himalayas and the valleys of Nepal, China, and India. Its aromatic rhizomes, which resemble ginger roots, are the source of spikenard essential oil. This oil has been valued for centuries for its therapeutic properties and distinct earthy aroma.

Spikenard essential oil is renowned for its deep, rich, and earthy scent profile. Its aroma is often described as musky, woody, and slightly sweet, with hints of damp forest floor and undertones of leather. This complex fragrance makes spikenard oil a popular choice in aromatherapy and perfumery, where it adds depth and character to blends.

The extraction of spikenard essential oil is a meticulous process that involves steam distillation of the plant’s rhizomes. First, the rhizomes are harvested, cleaned, and chopped into small pieces to expose their aromatic compounds. These chopped rhizomes are then placed in a distillation apparatus, where pressurized steam is passed through them. The steam vaporizes the essential oil molecules contained within the plant material, which are then condensed and collected, yielding the precious spikenard essential oil.

This essential oil has sweet, woody cedarwood, spicy aroma like a blend of pepper, ginger and some say it resembles valerian however dry down is softer with more delicate woody and earthy nuisances.

Odor Description: Strong, sweet woody, spicy, animalic, heady
Country of Origin: Nepal
Plant Part Used: Root
Extraction type: Steam Distillation
Cultivation: Wild-harvested