Sassafras
Profile
| Latin Name | Sassafras albidum / Ocotea cymbarum |
| Chinese Name | Not Known |
| Family | Lauraceae |
| Note | Base |
| Aroma | <Moderate> Camphorous |
| Color | Amber |
| Parts Distilled | Barks & Roots |
| Regions | Canada, Florida, Mexico |
| Taste | Bitter |
| Nature | Hot |
| Affinity | LR/KI |
| Major Chemical Constituents | Safrole (~80-90%) |
| Skin Type | Infectious conditions |
| Dosage | 2% dilution |
TCM Categories
Functions
- Invigorate blood to promote menstruation - scanty or no menses.
- Expel wind-damp-cold bi-obstruction.
Actions
- Diaphoretic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Emmenagogue (a substance that stimulates or increases menstrual flow)
Contraindications & Cautions
- Highly toxic
- Cancer
- Not used during pregnancy
- Not for pre-pubescent children
Additional Comments
- Not a recommended oil; used only for its counter-irritant potency.