Why Use Saro Essential Oil? (Tea Tree Substitute)

By Caryn Gehlmann

Have you heard of Saro essential oil? This lovely essential oil has flown under the radar but it’s worth getting to know! Here at essential 3, we began carrying Saro essential oil as one of our singles and we’ve used it in our popular new blend Harmony. Let’s discuss why you may want to use Saro essential oil.

Although this name sounds like sorrow, it’s actually a happy, uplifting scent that can brighten your mood. Saro has a crisp, refreshing aroma, slightly medicinal like Tea Tree or Ravintsara but with a hint of citrus.

Saro is from the Cinnamosma fragrans tree, a native to Madagascar, and is known to the locals as “Mandravasarotra.” This translates to “which keeps bad things away!” I always think it’s fascinating to look back at the history of different plans. Obviously, Saro has long been known for its beneficial germ-busting properties that are highly anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory. 

Why Use Saro Essential Oil as an Alternative or Complement to Tea Tree or Eucalyptus Oils?

Saro has many beneficial properties such as immune support, antiviral, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antidepressant, as well as being uplifting and refreshing. This makes Saro essential oil an excellent alternative to Eucalyptus or Tea Tree as it shares the same benefits but with what many find to be a lighter, more pleasant scent. Tea Tree, in particular, can pack an aroma punch that many don’t find soothing. And as I’ve said many times, if your nose is rejecting a particular scent, take a look at your alternatives!

Benefits of  Using Saro Essential Oil

There are quite a few ways that Saro can benefit you physically and emotionally, such as…

Physical uses: Colds, flu, infections, immune support, helps ease congestion, headache, ease muscle aches, use for keeping air fresh and clear

Skincare uses: Minor skin infections, small wounds, soothes common skin irritations

Psychological uses: Mild depression, stress, anxiety, refreshing & uplifting

Subtle uses: Promotes creativity & calm environment

How Can You Use Saro Essential Oil?

There are a variety of application methods that work well with Saro (see a more comprehensive list on our product page). But here are three favorites:

Footbath

Mix 1-3 drops of Saro essential oil in 1/2 teaspoon of carrier oil, such as fractionated coconut oil. Set aside. Fill a tub (deep enough to cover your feet and ankles) with warm water. Add the essential oil mixture, stir well, and immerse your feet for 10-15 minutes. Breathe in the aroma and massage your feet.

Chest Rub

Mix 5-15 drops of Saro essential oil in 1 tablespoon of carrier oil or fragrance-free, natural lotion. Apply to your upper chest and upper back.

Spot Application

Mix 1-4 drops of Saro essential oil in 1 teaspoon of carrier oil or aloe vera and apply to the area in need.

If you enjoy making your own aromatherapy blends then you should know that Saro has a Top Middle Scent Note. It combines well with Tea Tree, Ravinstara, Sandalwood, Frankincense, Lemon, Lavender, and Rosemary. If you’d like some further information on blending oils, check out The Art & Science of Blending Essential Oils. It’s yours, free for downloading immediately.

Would you like to try Saro? With e3’s sample policy you can get a complimentary sample with your next order. Give it a try and let us know what you think! Saro might be a new favorite.

Thanks to Chelsea shapouri for the image.