Elemi Essential Oil: Benefits, Uses, and Aromatherapy Recipes

Elemi essential oil is a lesser-known but highly valuable oil in aromatherapy. With its fresh, citrusy, slightly spicy scent, elemi has been used for centuries for skin care, respiratory relief, and emotional well-being. Often called the “Poor Man’s Frankincense,” it shares many benefits with its more expensive counterpart.

What Is Elemi Essential Oil?

Elemi oil is derived from the Canarium luzonicum tree, a tropical tree that can grow up to 98 feet tall. When the tree produces new leaves, it releases a pale yellow resin, which is collected and steam-distilled to extract the essential oil. This tree is primarily found in the Philippines and is locally known as pili.

Why Is Elemi Compared to Frankincense?

Elemi essential oil is often used as a substitute for frankincense because of its similar properties and lower cost. While the scent of elemi is softer, both oils share powerful skin-healing, respiratory, and stress-relieving benefits. If you use elemi instead of frankincense, check to see if the specific therapeutic effects you need align.

Benefits of Elemi Essential Oil

1. Skin Care and Anti-Aging

Elemi oil is deeply nourishing for the skin, helping to:

  • Reduce wrinkles and fine lines
  • Heal scars and sun damage
  • Increase skin vitality

It works particularly well for mature and aging skin, making it a great addition to face oils and creams.

2. Respiratory Support

Elemi is an excellent expectorant, meaning it helps clear mucus and phlegm from the lungs. It is beneficial for chronic bronchitis, chest infections, and congestion when used in steam inhalation or vapor therapy.

3. Stress and Emotional Balance

Like frankincense, elemi has a grounding and calming effect on the mind. It helps:

  • Reduce stress and anxiety
  • Promote emotional balance
  • Enhance meditation and relaxation

4. Pain and Inflammation Relief

Elemi is known for its analgesic (pain-relieving) and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for:

  • Muscle aches and tension
  • Joint pain and stiffness
  • Headache relief

5. Immune System Boost

With its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, elemi essential oil helps:

  • Support the immune system
  • Protect against infections
  • Speed up wound healing

How to Use Elemi Essential Oil

1. Aromatherapy Diffusion

Diffuse 3–5 drops of elemi oil in an essential oil diffuser to:

  • Reduce stress and anxiety
  • Purify the air
  • Support clear breathing

2. Steam Inhalation for Respiratory Relief

  • Add 2–3 drops of elemi oil to a bowl of hot water.
  • Cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam for 5–10 minutes to relieve congestion and coughs.

3. Massage and Body Oil

Dilute elemi oil with a carrier oil like jojoba, coconut, or sweet almond oil to:

  • Soothe sore muscles
  • Relieve tension and stress
  • Improve circulation

Mix 3–5 drops of elemi oil per 1 tablespoon of carrier oil for a relaxing massage blend.

4. Skin Care Applications

Elemi is a great addition to natural moisturizers, serums, and creams. Add 1–2 drops to your face cream or carrier oil to support skin healing and hydration.

5. Bath Soak for Relaxation

Mix 5–8 drops of elemi oil with 1 tablespoon of carrier oil and add to a warm bath for:

  • Deep relaxation
  • Muscle tension relief
  • Skin nourishment

Elemi Oil Blends Well With

Elemi blends beautifully with many other essential oils, including:

  • Frankincense (for spiritual and skin benefits)
  • Lavender (for relaxation and skin care)
  • Rosemary (for respiratory support and focus)
  • Geranium (for skin healing and balance)
  • Sandalwood (for grounding and meditation)
  • Neroli or Rose (for emotional uplift and anti-aging)

Safety and Precautions

Elemi oil is generally safe, but:

  • Always dilute with carrier oil before applying to the skin.
  • Do a patch test first if you have sensitive skin.
  • Avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, and open wounds.
  • Consult a healthcare provider if you are pregnant, nursing, or have a medical condition.

Aromatherapy Recipes Using Elemi Oil

Elemi essential oil is a versatile and affordable alternative to frankincense, offering incredible skin, respiratory, and stress-relief benefits. Whether you use it for aromatherapy, skincare, or relaxation, elemi is a powerful oil worth adding to your collection.

1. Anti-Wrinkle Facial Oil

This blend helps reduce fine lines and promote youthful skin.

  • 1 drop of Elemi essential oil
  • 1 drop of Lavender essential oil
  • 1 drop of Neroli or Rose essential oil
  • 3 tsp of Rosehip oil

Mix well and apply at night before bed.

2. Uplifting Stress-Relief Diffuser Blend

A grounding yet energizing blend for stress relief and mental clarity.

  • 3 drops of Elemi essential oil
  • 2 drops of Rosemary essential oil
  • 2 drops of Lavender essential oil

Diffuse for 30–60 minutes to create a calming atmosphere.

3. Respiratory Steam Inhalation

Perfect for chest congestion and sinus relief.

  • 2 drops of Elemi essential oil
  • 1 drop of Eucalyptus essential oil
  • 1 drop of Tea Tree essential oil

Add to a bowl of hot water and inhale for 5–10 minutes.

4. Muscle Relief Massage Blend

Great for sore muscles, tension, and inflammation.

  • 4 drops of Elemi essential oil
  • 3 drops of Ginger essential oil
  • 3 drops of Black Pepper essential oil
  • 2 tbsp of Carrier oil (Coconut, Jojoba, or Almond oil)

Massage into sore areas for relief.

5. Deep Relaxation Bath Soak

A luxurious bath blend to unwind and soothe the mind and body.

  • 5 drops of Elemi essential oil
  • 3 drops of Sandalwood essential oil
  • 3 drops of Bergamot essential oil
  • 1 tbsp of Carrier oil (Olive or Sweet Almond oil)

Mix and add to warm bathwater.