Copaiba essential oil | Copaifera officinalis

Traditional use: Copaiba essential oil is widely used in perfumery for its delicate, sweet, resinous aroma, which perfectly enriches fragrance blends. It is worth noting, however, that it is also valued among aromatherapy enthusiasts, as it exhibits a number of health-promoting properties. Copaiba oil resins have been used in folk medicine since the 16th century by indigenous peoples of northern and northeastern Brazil. To this day, this natural resource is primarily known for its antimicrobial properties and the ability to support the immune system. They exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties – preventing the excessive spread of inflammation and counteracting aging processes occurring in body cells. Oil extracted from the resin of Copaifera officinalis trees is often used topically to alleviate a variety of ailments, including skin inflammation, wounds or acne. In doing so, it supports the good condition of the skin, as it moisturizes and softens the skin, providing it with a healthy appearance. In addition, it has a beneficial effect on the circulatory system, regulates blood pressure, and also protects the liver from harmful factors. In aromatherapy, this oil is often used to mitigate nervous tension, because its deep aroma reduces stress levels and helps to achieve a sense of mental well-being.

Occurrence: Copaifera officinalis is an evergreen, highly branched deciduous tree that usually grows to a height of about 30 meters. Its fruits are pods containing seeds, while resin can be found in the bark of this tree. It is used as a balsam and in the production of essential oil. Naturally, Copaiba is found in South American countries – Bolivia, Brazil and Venezuela. The plant is also grown in the Dominican Republic, Sierra Leone, Trinidad and Tobago as well as Sri Lanka.

Biochemistry: Copaiba essential oil contains a number of chemical compounds, primarily terpenes, the most significant of which are: beta-caryophyllene, alpha-copaene, alpha-bergamotene, alpha-humulene and germacrene. The resin of this tree is also a rich source of copainic acid.

Fun fact: The resin of the Copaifera trees is used in the production of varnishes and biofuel. After proper filtration, Copaiba oil can be used in a diesel engine.