Inula essential oil is steam distilled from the roots of Inula graveolens, producing a very unique essential oil in terms of aroma, color and most importantly, therapeutics.

The color appears almost unreal, being deep neon-blue, and an accompanying pleasant floral/cineol aroma. Your first thought is "there must be something to this oil"! And there is! To help move out a cold or infection, it is crucial that the mucous be broken down, and Inula does this in very small amounts. It the aromatherapy texts, it is mentioned that the concentration necessary is only at odor threshold and no more—so if one can smell it, it should have the desired effect.

Inula is the premier essential oil for loosening unproductive coughs and asthmatic conditions. While costly—only small amounts are necessary to produce the desired effects. More than likely, the required result can be achieved by simply having the user inhale directly from the bottle, without further diffusion or blending. One of the great features of a high-quality Inula is the pleasantness with which this occurs; the aroma is not overly medicinal, and makes one want to come back for more.

Other authorities suggest these effects will relate to excellent results with lymph drainage (where otherwise Bay Laurel and Cypress can be the 'go to' oils). There is no reason to believe, however, that the same decongestant properties will not translate with Inula graveolens. A broader application of the oil can be used to determine its efficacy in this realm, but it should in-fact help move and drain lymph as well as, if not better than, any other essential oil available.

Inula graveolens should not be interchanged with Inula helenium; helenium is considered one of the most dangerous oils available for aromatherapy despite its antimicrobial effects.

To learn more about the use of all our essential oils, we encourage you to visit The Ananda Apothecary Forums, where you can post questions regarding specific applications of each oil. Questions in the forums are regularly answered by Ananda Apothecary staff, and other experienced aromatherapy practitioners.