Amyris Oil FAQ: Sizes, Safety, Scent and More

Most people who find us have the same handful of questions before they buy a bottle of amyris. So here they are, answered the way we would at a counter.

Amyris Essential Oil

Our own Amyris Essential Oil, in sizes from 0.5 oz to bulk.

From $23.99

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What are you selling?

One oil: Amyris Essential Oil (Amyris balsamifera), steam-distilled from wood and sold undiluted in nine sizes, from 0.5 oz up to 400 lb. Nothing else. Our full guide to what amyris is covers the plant.

Is it sandalwood?

No. The tree is a Caribbean species often nicknamed West Indian sandalwood, but it is unrelated to true sandalwood, and we do not price or describe it as though it were. Our naming guide explains why the nickname exists.

What does it smell like?

We describe it as creamy, woody and balsamic with a soft vanilla undertone, and it sits as a base note in perfumery. Scent is personal, so the smallest bottle is the cheapest way to find out. There is more in our scent profile.

What does the certificate of analysis show?

We publish one for one batch (AMYQGAABHTC003A). It lists relative density (0.952 against a standard of 0.946 to 0.978), refractive index (1.505 against 1.504 to 1.512) and optical rotation (+21.32 degrees against +20.00 to +45.00), all at 20 C, with a best-by date of 03/31/2030, and concludes that the tested parameters comply with pharmacopoeia standards for genuine amyris oil. If you need a GC-MS report, ask us in writing through the contact page before you order. Those physical measurements are a good screening tool, and a composition report goes further.

What colour is it?

Naturally pale yellow to amber, with a light to medium viscosity.

How long does it keep?

Typically 4 to 6 years unopened, stored in a cool, dark place away from sunlight. After opening, decant into a smaller airtight bottle and reseal promptly. Our shelf life guide covers the general rules.

Can I put it on my skin?

Only diluted. We recommend 0.5% to 2% in a carrier oil, with a patch test first. For comparison, the Tisserand Institute gives 0.5 to 1.2% for facial products, 1 to 3% for body oils and 0.2 to 1% for sensitive skin (Tisserand Institute), so for the face or reactive skin we would stay toward the bottom of our range. Details are in our safety basics.

Is it good for sleep, stress, skin or pain?

We sell a cosmetic oil for aroma and make no medicinal claim for it. FDA considers claims about easing pain or helping you sleep to be drug claims (FDA, Aromatherapy). For a health question, a physician or pharmacist is the right person.

Can I swallow it?

No. We do not recommend taking any essential oil internally. If someone swallows one, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 in the US; it is free, confidential and open around the clock (Poison Control). Our ingestion guide explains why.

Close-up of a distillery worker's hands holding a scoop of fresh pale yellow amyris heartwood chips

Is it okay around children and pets?

Keep it away from both, and store bottles out of sight and reach. Poison Control suggests locking essential oils up. Ask a veterinarian before scenting a room pets use.

Which size first?

The smallest that lets you try your project. We sell 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8 and 16 oz, plus 5, 25 and 400 lb for makers, and our sizes guide goes through which suits which job. For production, our wholesale page lists sample bottles, a free consultation, and private label and custom formulation enquiries. Orders ship within 1 to 2 business days.

How do I get to know the scent?

Start with the bottle itself. Open it at arm's length and bring it slowly toward your nose, then close it and wait a minute before you try again. If you want a second view, put a drop on a paper blotter and smell it at the start, after an hour and again later in the day. Amyris is a quiet oil, and it reveals itself slowly.

Can I blend it with other oils?

Yes, and that is where it shines. We suggest lavender, bergamot, geranium, sandalwood and ylang ylang as partners, and our blending guide goes through how each one behaves next to it. We sell only amyris, so you would find the others at a craft or aromatherapy supplier.

Do you sell carrier oils or blends?

No. We sell one oil, undiluted. Carrier oils, bottles and the rest of a recipe come from a craft or supply shop near you.

How should I handle the bottle?

Treat it like any concentrated oil. Open it over a tray or a towel, wipe the neck before you close it, and cap it firmly so the scent does not escape. Keep it out of sight and reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I spill it?

Wipe it up with a paper towel and wash the spot with soap and water, since oil left behind can mark fabric and finishes and make a floor slippery. Keep a cloth nearby whenever you open the bottle, and work over a tray if you are measuring into something small.