Allspice Berry

Allspice is a single spice, not a blend. The name came from early traders who found the dried berry recalled clove, cinnamon and nutmeg at once. The clove resemblance is chemical: eugenol leads both oils.

01 · Origin

Pimenta dioica is an evergreen of the myrtle family, Myrtaceae, native to Central America and the Caribbean. Jamaica has long been its principal source. This oil is distilled from the dried berries, grown in conventional cultivation in Jamaica.

02 · Chemistry

Eugenol leads by a wide margin. Methyl eugenol follows, with beta-caryophyllene and alpha-humulene giving a woody, peppery depth. The related Pimenta racemosa yields Bay St. Thomas (No. 1145), a leaf oil with a similar eugenol base but a fresher, more herbal character. Phenol-rich oils of this kind are used at low dilution.

03 · In Practice

Warm, spicy and sweet, with clove at the core and a peppery, woody finish. A middle note. Diffusion, winter blends, massage blends and natural perfumery, where it anchors spice and oriental accords. Blends with orange, ginger, cinnamon, clove bud, black pepper, vanilla and patchouli.

General information: For external use only. Dilute before applying to skin. Keep away from heat and sunlight. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.