Oakmass (Evernia prunastri) Pure Essential Oil

Oakmass Oil is solvent extracted from light green lichen that is found growing primarily on oak trees as well as on other plant species. Extracted through refined steam distillation process, the oil is well recognized for its antiseptic, demulcent, expectorant and fixative properties. It also lends body & rich natural undertones to all perfume types.

Oakmoss is the ‘Green Man’ of essential oils, it embodies the spirit of an ancient forest. Its deep green, earthy, musky scent is raw and primal, yet conveys the gentle side of the male aspect of nature. These ancient organisms are the guardians of the forest and very sensitive to environmental pollution. Where Oakmoss and other lichens grow prolifically one can be sure the air is clean – sadly such places are becoming rare, and so is Oakmoss. Lichens are complex compound organisms that can only exist in symbiosis. They are like the nervous system of the forest that conveys even the subtlest changes of environmental conditions to all parts of the forest. They have no showy flowers, no yummy fruits or nourishing roots, yet they are immensely important to the integrity of the ecosystem and the first indicators of imbalance. Their growth cycle is so slow as to be almost timeless and they are among the oldest living things on the planet. When they are gone the forest and all the life it supports will disappear as well. American Indians have long used various lichens for food, medicine and as natural dyes. In high class perfumery Oakmoss is used as a fixative.