Rosewood

Rosewood (jiang xiang, 降香) refers to Lignun Dalbergiae Odoriferae, also known as Dalbergia Wood. It comes from several species of trees that are known for its fragrant and valuable wood. Some common types of Rosewood include Brazilian Rosewood (Dalbergia nigra), Indian Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia), and Madagascar Rosewood (Dalbergia spp.).

Rosewood is highly regarded for its exceptional quality and aesthetic appeal. Its wood is dense, durable, and often has a reddish-brown or purplish hue with dark streaks. With its smooth texture, fine grain and natural lustre, Rosewood has been highly valued for centuries, especially for its use in high-quality furniture, musical instruments and decorative items.

Famous for its distinctive and pleasant fragrance, Rosewood is often used in perfumes, soaps and other personal care products. In addition, Rosewood is often used in traditional medicine practices, including Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). However, due to over-exploitation, the use of Rosewood in traditional medicine practices is becoming increasingly rare.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Rosewood falls under the category of ‘Herbs that stop bleeding’. Such herbs tend to have hemostatic properties, meaning that they can help stop various types of haemorrhages and ecchymosis. Warm in nature, Rosewood can help individuals with too much Cold in their body, such as those experiencing a Yin Excess or a Yang Deficiency, to restore a harmonious yin-yang balance.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) shows that Rosewood has the following health benefits.

Rosewood can resolve Stasis and stop bleeding, which makes it a useful treatment for internal injuries caused by trauma, fractures, sprains or contusions. This herb is usually applied topically alone or with other herbs to stop bleeding from lacerations.

Also, Rosewood can invigorate blood, promote the movement of qi and alleviate pain. For example, it can relieve epigastric and abdominal pain due to Stagnant Qi in the Spleen and stomach, as well as chest pain due to Blood Stasis.

As Rosewood can harmonise the Middle Jiao and relieve nausea, it is also used to treat nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain caused by the accumulation of Dampness.

Today, Rosewood is often used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation, reduce stress and uplift mood. This is because the sweet and soothing scent of Rosewood is believed to have calming effects on the mind and emotions. Rosewood oil is also used in skincare products due to its reputed antibacterial and antifungal properties. It may be included in formulations aimed at improving the appearance of the skin, reducing blemishes and promoting a healthy complexion.

Rosewood is occasionally used in inhalation therapies to support respiratory health. It is believed to have expectorant properties that may help in loosening mucus and relieving congestion. Also, Rosewood oil is said to have immune-stimulating properties, which may help support overall immune system function. However, further research is needed to confirm and understand its effects on the immune system.

In traditional practices, Rosewood is sometimes regarded as an aphrodisiac. It is believed to help enhance libido, promote intimacy, and support sexual health. However, scientific evidence to support these claims is lacking. Some preliminary studies suggest that Rosewood oil may possess anti-inflammatory properties. However, more research is needed to validate these findings and determine the specific mechanisms of action.

The recommended daily dosage of Rosewood is 3 – 6g, when used as a decoction. If used in powdered form, the recommended dosage is 1 – 2g.

Rosewood, Rosewood supplements and Rosewood products can be found in many herbal stores, Asian markets, specialty stores and even cosmetic or drug stores.

Other than medicinal usage, Rosewood and its oil is also used in procedures such as aromatherapy, massage and skincare. Even in our everyday lives, Rosewood is also used in bath, shower and diffusion too.

Rosewood should not be used by individuals experiencing Blood Heat or Yin Deficiency with Excess Fire. Also, individuals not experiencing Blood Stasis should not use this herb too.

Do note that Rosewood oil should be used with extreme caution by pregnant ladies as it may affect the uterus. 

We strongly encourage you to consult your healthcare provider before deciding to add Rosewood to your healthcare routine!

Here is a summary for Rosewood:

• Herb name (Chinese): 降香
• Herb name (Pin Yin): jiàng xiāng
• Herb name (English): Rosewood
• Herb name (Botanical): Lignum Dalbergiae Odoriferae
• Origin of species: Dalbergia odorifera T. Chen
• Part(s) of herb used: Heartwood of trunk and root
• Geo-specific habitat(s): Hainan, Guangdong, Guangxi, Yunnan
• Taste(s) & Properties: Pungent; Warm; Administrates the Liver and Spleen Meridians
• Actions: Eases bleeding conditions; Relieves pain resulting from physical injuries, chest and abdominal discomforts; Relieves nausea

Chen, J., Ni, C., Lou, J., & Peng, W. (2018). Molecules and functions of rosewood: Diospyros celebica. Arabian Journal of Chemistry, 11(6), 756-762. [Accessed on 11th May 2023]

Farzaneh, V., & Carvalho, I. S. (2015). A review of the health benefit potentials of herbal plant infusions and their mechanism of actions. Industrial Crops and Products, 65, 247-258.[Accessed on 11th May 2023]