Copaiba is a powerful essential oil from South America that has traditionally been used to aid digestion and support the body's natural response to injury or irritation. Copaiba contains the highest amounts of beta caryophyllene (55 percent) of any known essential oil. Helichrysum and Clove, essential oils that are praised for the similar properties, have only 5 to 12 percent of the same compound.
Young Living harvests their Copaiba oil from the genus species Copaifera reticulata, which is the only species that is indigenous to the Amazon Region and is considered the most powerful. They harvest the oil right from the tree through a pipe drilled into the tree! The essential oil is then produced by steam distilling the copal (oleoresin collected from the tree). It is important to know the genus species because there are at least 3 different species of Copaiba and a dozen or so common names that are included under the umbrella of copal or copaiba. Additionally, some companies are marketing the bark of the tree which is not at all the same as the resin!
Everyday Uses
- Non-cystic Acne - Place a few drops neat on active non-cystic acne to reduce redness and irritation making it much less noticeable.
- Stretch Marks - Mix Copaiba oil with a carrier oil and use on stretch marks to help fade prominence.
- Sagging Skin - Promotes healthy and firm skin when applied directly to areas of concern.
- Spider Veins - Copaiba oil is excellent for treating spider veins associated with aging as it supports blood circulation.
- Stressed muscles - Copaiba oil applied directly to the skin helps to soothe stressed muscles after exercise.
- Urinary - Massage on lower abdomen for urinary system support and to support proper bladder control.
- Insect bites - Use copaiba oil on insect bites to soothe irritation and reduce swelling
- Magnifier - Layering copaiba on another oil will have the effect of magnifying the properties of that oil.
- Digestive aid - Rub on abdomen to support the body’s digestive system during occasional irregularity by bringing the body back into homeostasis.
- Lift Moods - Diffuse to lighten up tense moods as it has a sweet honey like aroma.
- Teething - Apply a drop undiluted to gums as often as necessary.
- Morphine Bomb - Put five drops each of copaiba, frankincense and balsam fir in a vegetable capsule and swallow.
- Sciatica Nerve Pain - Mix 1 oz carrier oil, 15 drops copaiba and 2 drops clove. Massage into the muscles from the lower back to the knees.
- Safe For Pet Use - Copaiba is one of the best natural anti-inflammatory oils to use on animals. Dilution is not required except for pets with sensitive skin.
