African Wild Sage also known as leleshwa, is a small tree or shrub common in the Great Rift Valley of Eastern Africa. Leleshwa oil is obtained through steam distillation of the flowers and fresh leaves of the leleshwa shrub. This condensation process is safe and completely organic. The oil is a pale greenish/yellowish liquid and mobile at room temperatures. Research has proven it to be more effective in cleansing the skin than Tea Tree oil. Its scent is herbaceous with a floral camphor note to it.
Benefits and uses
Leleshwa oil has powerful antiseptic, antifungal, anti-acne and anti-dandruff properties. It is good to note that application of this oil is only safe in small quantities unless diluted with a carrier oil or a solubilized solution. It is great when used in lotions, creams, masks, soaps, cleansers, shampoos and gels. It is also used in detergents as a natural disinfectant (non toxic and non irritant). Leleshwa oil is also great in aroma therapy for the treatment of anxiety and headaches. It is also used as a relaxation oil and great for soothing sore legs and feet. Used in a diffuser, it promotes sleep, clears most stagnant residual odors in a room and acts as an insect repellant. It also reduces transmission of infectious diseases like colds and flu. Aromatherapy is however not recommended for pregnant women in the first three months.
