Lantana

Lantana camara is known to most as a hedge plant, and in many warm regions as an invasive one. As an aromatic it is rarely encountered. Its oil varies widely in composition from one region to another, so a lantana oil is properly described by origin as well as by species.

01 · Origin

A flowering shrub of the verbena family, Verbenaceae, native to tropical America and now naturalised across the tropics. This oil is distilled in Madagascar from the blossoms of wild-crafted plants.

02 · Chemistry

A sesquiterpene-led profile. Alpha-humulene and beta-caryophyllene form the base, with p-cymene in the lighter fraction. Davanone, the ketone better known from davana, adds a fruity, faintly boozy note.

03 · In Practice

Herbaceous, spicy and resinous, with a warm fruity undertone. A middle note. Of interest in natural perfumery and in olfactory study of regional chemistry. Used at low concentration in diffusion blends. Blends with ylang ylang, vetiver, black pepper, ginger, sandalwood 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.