Characteristics of Lilac

Lilac is a small deciduous tree that can grow in an ecosystem without human intervention (a native plant). Its Latin name is Syringa vulgaris and it belongs to the Oleaceae family.
It grows mainly in the Balkans and prefers fertile soils with good water drainage.

Nevertheless, it is a hardy tree, frequently found in areas with rocky soil. It is characterized by slender branches with conical inflorescences in purple or white. Its flowering lasts 20–30 days during March and April. The height of the tree can reach 6–7 meters. It prefers sunny locations that allow it to extend its flowering period and produce abundant blossoms. A characteristic feature of the tree is that winter cold significantly enhances flowering performance, as rich and fragrant flowers develop on the
branches of the tree.

Lilac essential oil is produced from the flowers of the plant by steam distillation. The flowers are collected shortly after sunrise, during the tree’s “morning awakening”.

History of Lilac

Although lilac first appeared in the Balkan region, in the 16th century it travelled to the rest of Europe and America, where it acclimatized easily. There are many myths and customs associated with the unique fragrance of its flowers. During the Victorian era, lilac became a symbol of purity and love.
Since 1949, on Mackinac Island, a ten-day lilac festival has been held. This period includes horse parades decorated with lilacs, planting of new trees and visits to parks and gardens where various lilac varieties are cultivated.

According to myth, in ancient Greece, Syringa was a beautiful nymph desired by Pan. To escape his advances, she transformed into a shrub with lilac flowers, which is why the lilac is also known by the name Lilac.

Today the tree has been associated with the holy days of Easter and the Resurrection of Christ. It is even said that the tree withered when it witnessed the Passion of Christ and on the third day after the Resurrection it came back to life and blossomed with its fragrant flowers!

Ingredients

Lilac essential oil extracted from the fresh blossoms of the tree by steam distillation.

Chemical composition of lilac essential oil

Linalool 26.43%, α-terpineol 10.84%, camphor, trans-geraniol 9.8%, cis-geraniol 2.21%, lavandulyl acetate, α-bisabolol, β-caryophyllene oxide 2.97%.

Instructions for use

- Dilute a few drops of lilac essential oil in grapeseed oil and massage the thighs to help combat sagging in the leg area.*
- Add a few drops to a foot bath to help treat fungal infections.
- For frizzy hair, combine lilac essential oil with coconut oil or add it to your favorite leave-in serum. Put a small amount in your palm and then apply it to the ends of the hair.
- In an oil burner, dilute 3–4 drops of essential oil in a little warm water. The delicate scent of lilac will bring balance to the room, relaxing mind and body.
- Blends well with mastic, vanilla, gardenia and lavender essential oils.

Chinese medicine

In Chinese medicine, lilac is considered to have a cold nature and therefore reduces fire and restlessness, calms the mind and promotes the vital Qi energy in the lungs. In Eastern traditional therapy, after specific processing, it is used to treat cough, facilitate breathing and stimulate liver function.

Useful tips

- The use of lilac essential oil should be avoided during pregnancy, breastfeeding and by children.
- Lilac essential oil is intended for external use and should always be used diluted in a carrier oil or other medium.
- Avoid direct contact with skin, eyes and mouth.