Essential Oil Spotlight: Pink Pepper

Pink pepper (Schinus molle) essential oil is steam distilled from the fruit of the plant. It belongs to the Anacardiaceae—commonly known as sumac or cashew—botanical family. The aroma is warm, spicy, and fruity, with a slightly woody undertone. Pink pepper properties: antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antiviral, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, astringent, diuretic, stimulant (digestive), and wound healing.

Common Primary Uses: Pink pepper can be used both aromatically and topically for increased alertness and for its antibacterial cleansing properties. (See Modern Essentials and Modern Essentials Handbook, 10^th editions, for other possible uses.)

Body Systems Affected: Immune, respiratory, skin.

Application and Safety Data

Aromatic: Diffuse, or inhale the aroma directly.

Topical: Can be applied neat (without dilution) to area of concern or to reflex points

Internal: Generally regarded as safe (GRAS) for human consumption by the FDA. Dilute 1 drop oil in 1 tsp. (5 ml) honey, in 1 cup (250 ml) of beverage (e.g., soy/rice milk), or in a capsule with ingestible carrier oil. Not for children under 6 years old; use with caution and in greater dilution for children 6 years old and over.

Safety Data: May irritate highly sensitive skin. Dilute as needed for topical use. Consult with a physician before using pink pepper if taking medications, pregnant, or nursing.

Ways to Use

Diffuser Blends: Pink pepper is enlivening to the mind without being overstimulating.

Digestive Aid:  A complementary trio to help support digestion and relieve digestive difficulties

Internal: Combine 1 drop each pink pepper, turmeric, and fennel in a capsule. Fill remainder with fractionated coconut oil. Take with a meal to stimulate digestion.

Topical: Combine 4 drops each pink pepper, turmeric, and fennel in a 1/3 oz. (10 ml) roll-on vial. Fill remainder with fractionated coconut oil. Apply over abdomen to relieve digestive upset.

Pain-Relieving Rub

Servings: Yield=2 oz. (60 ml) | Time: 10 minutes active; 1 hour inactive | Difficulty: Easy

This muscle and joint salve helps reduce inflammation, ease pain, and promote healing.

• 2 tsp. (3 g) Beeswax
• 2 1/2 Tbsp. (30 g) Coconut Oil
• 1 Tbsp. (15 ml) Sweet Almond Oil or Fractionated Coconut Oil
• 10 drops pink pepper essential oil
• 8 drops lavender essential oil
• 8 drops helichrysum essential oil
• 2 oz. Glass Salve Jar or Tin Container

1. In a double boiler, melt the beeswax and coconut oil over low heat until completely melted; then add sweet almond oil or fractionated coconut oil. Note: You can create a double boiler by placing a heat-proof glass container (containing ingredients) in a pan filled with an inch (2.5 cm) of water.
2. Allow mixture to cool for about 5 minutes before stirring in the essential oils.
3. Pour mixture into a glass salve jar or tin container. It should solidify within 30 minutes to an hour.
4. To use, rub salve on sore muscles as needed