Saro (Mandravasarotra) (Cinnamosma fragrans) is a herbaceous essential oil with a fresh, herbaceous, camphoraceous aroma and a heart note. Steam distillation from leaf, it is a versatile blending oil that pairs well with Eucalyptus (Peppermint/Dives), Tea Tree, Ravensara. For topical use, keep dilution at or below 5%.
Cinnamosma fragrans (mandravasarotra). Madagascar endemic. 1,8-cineole dominant (~50%). Similar profile to ravintsara.
Aroma & character
Aroma
Traditional aromatherapy associations
Traditional associations only — not medical claims or evidence of efficacy.
Properties
| Perfumery note | Heart |
| Aroma family | Herbaceous |
| Chemical family | Oxide |
| Material type | Essential oil |
| Extraction | Steam distillation |
| Plant part | leaf |
| Origin | Madagascar |
| Blending factor | 6 |
| Volatility index | 3 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 4.0 |
Safety & dilution
| 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 |
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.
Plan safe amounts with our essential oil dilution calculator.
Blends well with
Frequently asked questions
What does Saro (Mandravasarotra) smell like?
Saro (Mandravasarotra) has a fresh, herbaceous, camphoraceous, sweet aroma, classed as a herbaceous oil with a heart note.
What is the safe dilution for Saro (Mandravasarotra)?
For topical use, keep Saro (Mandravasarotra) at or below 5%, and 2.5% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Saro (Mandravasarotra) safe to use during pregnancy?
Our dataset records no specific pregnancy caution for Saro (Mandravasarotra). 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 Saro (Mandravasarotra) safe to use around children?
Saro (Mandravasarotra) is not recommended for young children. Consult a professional before use.
Is Saro (Mandravasarotra) 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 Saro (Mandravasarotra) blend well with?
Saro (Mandravasarotra) pairs well with Eucalyptus (Peppermint/Dives), Tea Tree, Ravensara, Lavender, Frankincense (Carterii).