Extracted by steam distillation of the flowering tops and leaves.

History - Considered a sacred herb in India. Used in the middle ages for melancholy and depression. Used in Ayurvedic medicine to strengthen faith and clarity. Popular culinary herb.

Uses - Stimulates the mind and clears the head, relieving mental fatigue: anxiety, depression. Relieves sinus congestion, asthma, bronchitis and 'flu.  Useful for flatulence and nausea. Used in a vaporiser, with rosemary or lemon, as an aid to studying as a mental stimulant.

Odour - fresh sweet-spicy.

Blends well with - bergamot, black pepper, eucalyptus, frankincense, ginger, lavender, lemon, rosemary, peppermint.

Safety - May cause skin irritation in some people with sensitive skin: not to be used if pregnant.