Elecampane (Inula helenium) is a herbaceous essential oil with a herbaceous, earthy, warm aroma and a base note. Steam distillation from root, it is a versatile blending oil that pairs well with Frankincense (Carterii), Cedarwood (Atlas), Lavender. For topical use, keep dilution at or below 0.03%.
Inula helenium (elecampane). STRONG SENSITIZER -- alantolactone + isoalantolactone. Tisserand max dermal 0.03%. NOT Inula graveolens (sweet inula).
Aroma & character
Aroma
Properties
| Perfumery note | Base |
| Aroma family | Herbaceous |
| Chemical family | Sesquiterpene |
| Material type | Essential oil |
| Extraction | Steam distillation |
| Plant part | root |
| Origin | France, China |
| Blending factor | 2 |
| Volatility index | 4 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 15.0 |
Safety & dilution
STRONG SENSITIZER. Contains alantolactone and isoalantolactone. NOT Inula graveolens (sweet inula).
| Max topical dilution | 0.03% |
| Max facial dilution | 0.01% |
| Pregnancy | Not recommended |
| Nursing | Not recommended |
| Children | Not recommended for young children |
| Cats | Not recommended |
| Dogs | Not recommended |
Safety flags
Evidence: Traditional.
For education only — not medical or veterinary advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always patch-test and consult a qualified professional before use during pregnancy, on children, with pets, or with a health condition.
Scale amounts to any container with the dilution calculator.
Blends well with
Frequently asked questions
What does Elecampane essential oil smell like?
Elecampane has a herbaceous, earthy, warm, camphoraceous aroma, classed as a herbaceous oil with a base note.
What is the safe dilution for Elecampane?
For topical use, keep Elecampane at or below 0.03%, and 0.01% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Elecampane safe to use during pregnancy?
Elecampane is not recommended during pregnancy. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before any use.
Is Elecampane safe to use around children?
Elecampane is not recommended for young children. Consult a professional before use.
Is Elecampane safe around pets?
For cats — avoid; not considered safe; dogs — avoid; not considered safe. Diffuse only in ventilated spaces and consult a veterinarian.
What does Elecampane blend well with?
Elecampane pairs well with Frankincense (Carterii), Cedarwood (Atlas), Lavender, Myrrh, Vetiver.