Orris Root (Iris pallida) is a earthy essential oil with a powdery, violet aroma and a base note. Steam distillation from rhizome, it is a versatile blending oil that pairs well with Rose, Violet Flower Absolute, Sandalwood (Australian). For topical use, keep dilution at or below 3%.
Aroma & character
Aroma
Traditional aromatherapy associations
Traditional associations only — not medical claims or evidence of efficacy.
Properties
| Perfumery note | Base |
| Aroma family | Earthy |
| Chemical family | Ketone |
| Material type | Essential oil |
| Extraction | Steam distillation |
| Plant part | rhizome |
| Origin | Italy, Morocco |
| Blending factor | 2 |
| Volatility index | 4 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 12.0 |
Safety & dilution
| Max topical dilution | 3% |
| Max facial dilution | 1.5% |
| Pregnancy | Not recommended |
| Nursing | Not recommended |
| Children | Not recommended for young children |
| Cats | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| 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.
Work out exact drops with the dilution calculator for your bottle size.
Blends well with
Frequently asked questions
What does Orris Root essential oil smell like?
Orris Root has a powdery, violet aroma, classed as a earthy oil with a base note.
What is the safe dilution for Orris Root?
For topical use, keep Orris Root at or below 3%, and 1.5% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Orris Root safe to use during pregnancy?
Orris Root is not recommended during pregnancy. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before any use.
Is Orris Root safe to use around children?
Orris Root is not recommended for young children. Consult a professional before use.
Is Orris Root safe around pets?
For cats — generally lower-risk when well diluted and diffused sparingly; dogs — generally lower-risk when well diluted. Diffuse only in ventilated spaces and consult a veterinarian.
What does Orris Root blend well with?
Orris Root pairs well with Rose, Violet Flower Absolute, Sandalwood (Australian), Bergamot (FCF), Ylang Ylang (Complete).