Elemi (Canarium luzonicum) is a resinous essential oil with a fresh, resinous aroma and a base note. Steam distillation from resin, it is a versatile blending oil that pairs well with Frankincense (Carterii), Myrrh, Lavender. For topical use, keep dilution at or below 5%.
Elemi (Canarium luzonicum) is a resinous essential oil, steam-distilled from the resin, produced in Philippines. Its aroma is fresh, resinous, sitting as a base note in a blend. It's commonly paired with Frankincense (Carterii), Myrrh, Lavender, Lemon (Cold Pressed). Keep topical use at or below 5%. It is noted for oxidation risk. Always patch-test first.
Aroma & character
Aroma
Traditional aromatherapy associations
Traditional associations only — not medical claims or evidence of efficacy.
Properties
| Perfumery note | Base |
| Aroma family | Resinous |
| Chemical family | Monoterpene |
| Material type | Essential oil |
| Extraction | Steam distillation |
| Plant part | resin |
| Origin | Philippines |
| Blending factor | 5 |
| Volatility index | 3 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 5.0 |
Safety & dilution
| Max topical dilution | 5% |
| Max facial dilution | 2.5% |
| Pregnancy | No specific caution recorded |
| Nursing | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Children | Generally suitable, well diluted (from ~6 years) |
| Cats | Not recommended |
| Dogs | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
Safety flags
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
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Frequently asked questions
What does Elemi smell like?
Elemi has a fresh, resinous aroma, classed as a resinous oil with a base note.
What is the safe dilution for Elemi?
For topical use, keep Elemi at or below 5%, and 2.5% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Elemi safe to use during pregnancy?
Our dataset records no specific pregnancy caution for Elemi. That is not the same as it being established as safe — always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any essential oil during pregnancy.
Is Elemi safe to use around children?
Elemi is generally considered suitable for children when well diluted (from around 6 years old). Consult a professional for young children.
Is Elemi safe around pets?
For cats — avoid; not considered safe; dogs — generally lower-risk when well diluted. Diffuse only in ventilated spaces and consult a veterinarian.
What does Elemi blend well with?
Elemi pairs well with Frankincense (Carterii), Myrrh, Lavender, Lemon (Cold Pressed), Rosemary (Camphor ct.).