Davana

Davana is an Artemisia, and the genus is known for thujone and camphor. Davana carries neither in quantity. Its signature constituent is davanone, a sesquiterpene ketone of its own, which gives a fruity, dried-fruit character unusual in the genus.

01 · Origin

Artemisia pallens is a small, silvery annual of southern India, grown in Karnataka and neighbouring states and used in garlands and temple offerings. This oil is distilled in India from the leaves of conventionally grown plants.

02 · Chemistry

Davanone leads. Bicyclogermacrene adds a woody, green tone. Ethyl cinnamate contributes a sweet, balsamic-fruity note, and davana ether, a furanoid compound, rounds the profile. The oil is valued in flavour work as well as in perfumery.

03 · In Practice

Rich, fruity and boozy, with notes of dried apricot and a herbal undertone. A heart note in natural perfumery, used in small proportion. Massage blends, natural perfumery and olfactory study. Comparative work with Mugwort white (No. 1151) shows the spread of chemistry within Artemisia. Blends with rose, sandalwood, jasmine, vanilla, orange, bergamot and cedarwood.

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.