Inula (Inula graveolens) is a herbaceous essential oil with a sweet, herbaceous, camphoraceous aroma and a heart note. Steam distillation from flowering tops, it is a versatile blending oil that pairs well with Eucalyptus (Peppermint/Dives), Tea Tree, Lavender. For topical use, keep dilution at or below 5%.
Inula graveolens (sweet inula). Bornyl acetate dominant. NOT Inula helenium (elecampane) which is a strong sensitizer. Prized for its soft, fresh, bornyl-acetate character.
Aroma & character
Aroma
Properties
| Perfumery note | Heart |
| Aroma family | Herbaceous |
| Chemical family | Ester |
| Material type | Essential oil |
| Extraction | Steam distillation |
| Plant part | flowering tops |
| Origin | France |
| Blending factor | 5 |
| Volatility index | 3 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 6.0 |
Safety & dilution
This is Inula graveolens (sweet inula) -- NOT Inula helenium (elecampane) which has different safety.
| Max topical dilution | 5% |
| Max facial dilution | 2.5% |
| Pregnancy | No specific caution recorded |
| Nursing | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Children | Not recommended for young children |
| Cats | Not recommended |
| Dogs | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
Evidence: Moderate.
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.
Not sure how much to use? Try the free dilution calculator.
Blends well with
Frequently asked questions
What does Inula smell like?
Inula has a sweet, herbaceous, camphoraceous, fresh aroma, classed as a herbaceous oil with a heart note.
What is the safe dilution for Inula?
For topical use, keep Inula at or below 5%, and 2.5% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Inula safe to use during pregnancy?
Our dataset records no specific pregnancy caution for Inula. 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 Inula safe to use around children?
Inula is not recommended for young children. Consult a professional before use.
Is Inula 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 Inula blend well with?
Inula pairs well with Eucalyptus (Peppermint/Dives), Tea Tree, Lavender, Rosemary (Camphor ct.), Frankincense (Carterii).