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 | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| 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) essential oil 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?
Saro (Mandravasarotra) is generally considered suitable during pregnancy when properly diluted. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before use.
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).