Pepper, Indian / Zanthoxylum rhetsa

Indian pepper is not a pepper. Zanthoxylum rhetsa belongs to the citrus family, Rutaceae, and has no relation to Piper nigrum. Its nearest commercial relatives are Szechuan pepper and other prickly-ash species.

01 · Origin

A spiny deciduous tree of the forests of southern India and Southeast Asia. The dried fruits are used as a spice in coastal Indian cooking. This oil is distilled from the fruits of wild trees in India and supplied diluted in a carrier oil.

02 · Chemistry

Linalool and limonene lead, giving a combined floral-citrus top. Beta-phellandrene adds a peppery freshness. Methyl cinnamate, a sweet balsamic ester, gives depth and a faintly fruity tone.

03 · In Practice

Bright, citrus and peppery, with a floral lift and a warm, fruity undertone. A top note. Natural perfumery, diffusion and massage blends. Comparison with Pepper, Szechuan (No. 3073) shows two Zanthoxylum species side by side, and with Pepper, Black (No. 2500) the difference between the two families sold under the same name. Blends with lime, bergamot, ginger, cardamom, coriander seed, frankincense and sandalwood.

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.