Plai essential oil has a fresh, herbaceous, spicy aroma. It is steam distilled from the fresh rhizome (roots) of the Plai plant (Zingiber cassumunar), which is native to Thailand, Indonesia and India. Plai essential oil has long been used by Thai massage therapists for its powerful pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, rejuvenating and relaxing properties.
Although it is derived from the same plant family as Ginger, Plai possesses many different properties and has a more intense action. Rather than the classic warming effect of Ginger, Plai has a cooling effect on pain and inflammation, making it an excellent choice for treating injuries, muscular and joint pain and conditions such as arthritis and rheumatism.
Please note that Plai is still a relatively little known oil and doesn't yet have a long history of use. Aromatherapists are still collecting data as to its properties and potential applications.
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Safety Note: |
Plai essential oil is considered non-toxic, non-sensitizing and non-irritating. Always best to spot test first though on sensitive skin.
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Skin:
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Plai is a excellent ‘health supporting’ oil that is used in many aromatherapy and spa products particularly for massage. It is normally diluted but can be applied directly to the skin if treating areas of pain or inflammation that are close to the surface of the skin. It can also be used as an insect repellent and to treat acne.
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Mind: |
Plai can help to soothe the nerves, reduce anxiety and cool anger.
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Body: |
Plai is one of the best essential oils for treating, aches, pains and inflammation. It has powerful analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial for injuries and muscular aches and pains. It is also useful for post-operative pain and inflammation and its powerful analgesic properties are reported to ease pain for up to 16-20 hours. Plai can help to settle digestive problems such as nausea, stomach cramps, flatulence, constipation, diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Its anti-spasmodic action is also beneficial for period pains. Plai essential oil can help to stimulate the immune system and boost vitality. Its antimicrobial properties are effective in fighting infection and it can also be helpful for respiratory problems such as asthma, catarrh, chronic colds and flu.
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Blends well with: |
Black Pepper, Lavender, Neroli, Orange, Rosemary, Sandalwood |
Disclaimer: The information provided is for personal information and interest. It is not intended to offer a medicinal treatment for any condition. Please consult your GP or nurse if you have any health concerns whatsoever. Essential oils are not to be used undiluted and are not to be taken internally. Keep out of reach of children. If using an essential oil on your skin always perform a small patch test to an insensitive part of the body first (after you have properly diluted the oil in an appropriate carrier). If you have any questions about using essential oils please click on our Ask the Expert link above.
