Leleshwa Essential Oil

September 17, 2010 | Posted in: Herbs & Essential Oils

Source:  Kenya

Distillation:  Steam distilled

Botanical name:  Tarchocanthus camphora

Note:  Made from leaves and flowers of the wild plants

This oil is distilled by a small family operation in Kenya.  It is a powerful disinfectant and deodorant; an insect repellant, and a very potent fungicide, possibly the most effective natural fungicide available.

Contrary to its botanical name, it does not have much of a camphor aromatic element.  It is classified as a monoterpene, and has a unique aroma.

• Known as “Mkalambati” in Swahili

• Fantastic insect repellant, including ticks, mites, spiders, flies, and mosquitos (cape buffalo use the plant to remove ticks)

• I have used it in many deodorant recipes.  Its effect lasts longer than many other essential oils.

• For skin fungus, nail fungus–very effective (I saw a bad case of childhood ringworm cleared up in 5 days with a combination of leleshwa and geranium).

• It makes a very good natural preservative, use at .01% in cremes and natural products.

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