Dianthus Caryophyllus, known to us as Carnation, is native to the Mediterranean region, and has been cultivated extensively for the last 2000 years. It is a perennial herb, growing up-to 80 cm in length. The leaves are glaucous, with a tinge of greyish green to blue green. The slender leaves grow up to 15 cm in length. The flowers, which are produced individually, or maximum up to 5 in number at a time, are 3 to 5 cm in diameter. These flowers have a sweet scent. The colour of the original flower is bright pinkish purple, but cultivation of carnation of various other colours is prevalent.
The extracted oil from carnation has a rich, floral and spicy aroma. The carnation plants are grown organically, but the resultant extract is always not certified organic. The appearance is viscous green or brown. At room temperature, the extract remains semi solid. The oil should be heated by placing in hot water, to liquefy the same.
The extraction of carnation is carried out by numerous methodologies. Hydro-extraction, CO2 extraction, or the absolute extraction of the flower, is the more common methods, while the Egyptians practice solvent extraction of carnation. Carnation extract blends well with Clary Sage, Coriander, Lavender, and Ylang Ylang.
The carnation extract is immensely rich in saponins.
Carnation extract acts as an antidepressant, calmative, sedative, anti-spasmodic, and as a mosquito repellent. In perfumery, Carnation oil acts as an important fixative.
Medicinal Uses: Carnation oil is considered to be spiritually uplifting, motivating oil. It is also valued as a fantastic aphrodisiac. It can also be applied while performing therapeutic massage. Carnation extract also acts as a valued antiseptic.
Household uses: Carnation extract can be used in soaps, candles, room fresheners and in potpourri.