Davana

Family                   :               Asteraceae

Indian name       :               Davanam, Davana (Hindi)

Species                 :               Artemisia pallens

Distribution        :               India

Davana is an important annual aromatic herb, much prized in India for its delicate fragrance. Davana is imported worldwide for its sweet fragrance and illustrious medicinal values. Regionally called as davanam in Tamil and Davana in Kannada, this fragrant herb is indigenous to the southern parts of the Indian subcontinent. The essential oil of Davana is extracted from the stem and leaves of this herb by steam distillation method. It is widely used in Ayurveda in the treatment of mental disorders, nervous problems, depression, cough, cold, measles, infections, diabetes and high blood pressure.

Uses

  • Cosmetics, Flavouring beverages, confectionery, tobacco and perfumery
  • Promotes the appearance of radiant, glowing skin when applied topically
  • Heightens spiritual senses when incorporated into your practice of prayer, meditation or yoga
  • The leaves and flowers contain essential oil valued for its exquisite and delicate aroma and is used in high grade perfumes and cosmetics. The oil of Davana contains hydrocarbons (20%), ester (65%) and oxygenated compounds (15%). The esters are the major constituent responsible for the characteristic smell of Davana.
  • The other constituents isolated from the oil include a Sesquiterpene ketone named ‘Artemone’, novel Sesquiterpenoids named `Davanafurans’ and another ketone named `Isodavanone’.

Suggested Uses

  • Wear as a calming personal fragrance
  • Diffuse for an intimate atmosphere of joy and romance
  • Apply topically to reduce the appearance of blemishes
  • Use during yoga or breath work for an aromatic element that enhances your practice.

Medicinal Benefits

  • Davana essential oil fights infections that cause septic of internal and external wounds, urinary tracts, urethra, kidneys, and other body parts. It also protects against conditions like tetanus. This should be applied without delay in mild concentrations in cases of cuts and wounds, particularly from iron objects or dirty abrasives.
  • Davana essential oil opens up blocked menstruation and makes periods regular. It is good for curing menstrual spasm. It also eases pain associated with menses and gives relief from other symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, pelvic pain, and cramps.
  • Davana essential oil fights infections from bacteria, microbes, fungi, and viruses and helps cure infectious diseases. If used in fumigants, sprays, or vaporizers, it disinfects the whole area and makes it free from microbes.
  • It’s an aphrodisiac.