Ravintsara (Cinnamomum camphora) is a medium-sized tree from the Lauraceae family. It has reddish bark and its helically arranged, glabrous and coriaceous leaves are the same as those of the bay laurel (Laurus nobilis).
Native to Japan and Taiwan, it was introduced into Madagascar, where grew a related species, but with different properties (Ravensara aromatica).
The essential oil extracted from it is remarkable when it comes to fighting viral diseases.
Main aromatic molecules: Terpene oxides (1,8-cineole or eucalyptol), monoterpenols (α-terpineol), monoterpenes (α and β-pinenes).
Family: Lauraceae.
Productive organs: Leaves.
Yield: 1.5 to 2 kg of essential oil per 100 kg of leaves.
Equivalence: 1 ml → 39 drops (dosage calculated for a calibrated dropper European Pharmacopoeia).
