DrFeb
Health Guide

Fragrant Rosewood

Fragrant Rosewood, scientifically known as *Dalbergia odorifera*, is a prized botanical traditionally used in Chinese wellness practices. While distinct from the endangered tropical rosewoods used in furniture and instruments, this specific wood (often called 'Jiang Xiang' or Yellow Rosewood) is harvested for its aromatic and therapeutic heartwood. Its rich, sweet scent comes from a complex profile of bioactive flavonoids and volatile oils. In the world of natural health, it is valued as a 'Qi-moving' herb—meaning it helps unblock stagnation in the body, particularly in the digestive and circulatory systems. It acts as a natural aromatic bitter and circulatory tonic.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Fragrant Rosewood
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Key Benefits Distribution

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

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Relative Potency (1-10)
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Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Supports Healthy Circulation: Helps blood flow freely, reducing stagnation that can cause discomfort.
  • Soothes Digestive Discomfort: The aromatic compounds relax the stomach muscles to ease bloating and poor digestion.
  • Natural Pain Relief: Traditionally used to alleviate aches, particularly in the joints or abdomen caused by 'cold' stagnation.
  • Calming Aroma: The scent provides a grounding effect, helping to settle the mind and reduce stress.

Deep Dive

Fragrant Rosewood works primarily through its flavonoids (like dalbergin) and volatile oils. Unlike harsh stimulants, it gently warms the digestive tract. When you consume it as a tea or extract, it stimulates the secretion of digestive juices and helps move food through the gut (a process known as prokinetic activity). For the blood, it acts as a mild vasodilator and anti-inflammatory, which explains its traditional use for recovery from physical exertion or minor injuries.

Natural Food Sources

Unlike vitamins found in common produce, Fragrant Rosewood is a specialized tree extract. However, you can find similar bioactive compounds in foods that support circulation and digestion:

FoodAmount% DV
Rosewood Tea1 cupN/A
Ginger1 inch freshHigh
Hawthorn Berries1 tbsp driedHigh
Dark Chocolate1 ozMedium
Cayenne Pepper1 tspMedium

Supplementation

Fragrant Rosewood is rarely found in standard multivitamins. It is best sourced as:

  1. Powdered Extract: Mixed into warm water or smoothies (1-3 grams daily).
  2. Aged Wood Chips: Boiled gently to make a medicinal tea (decoction).
  3. Topical Oils: Diluted in a carrier oil for massage (for muscle aches).

Dosage: Standard traditional doses range from 2g to 5g of powdered wood per day. Start with a lower dose to test tolerance.

Top Food Sources

Dalbergia Odorifera Wood
Primary Source (Tea/Decoction)
Ginger (Fresh)
Similar warming circulatory properties
Hawthorn Berry
Supports blood flow
Turmeric
Anti-inflammatory circulation support
Cinnamon
Digestive warming spice

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Brazilian Rosewood is an endangered timber (*Dalbergia nigra*). Fragrant Rosewood typically refers to *Dalbergia odorifera* (Yellow Rosewood), which is cultivated for medicinal use and is distinct, though they belong to the same genus.
Yes, traditionally, small chips are chewed to freshen breath and soothe the stomach. However, ensure the wood is food-grade and untreated, as decorative woods often contain toxic lacquers.
For digestive issues, effects can be felt within 30-60 minutes after drinking the tea. For circulatory support, consistent use over 2-4 weeks is usually recommended.
It does not have a known chemical interaction with caffeine, but both are stimulants. Taking them together might make you feel jittery or anxious.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety Profile

Fragrant Rosewood is generally considered safe for most adults when used in culinary or moderate therapeutic amounts. However, as a potent botanical:

Who should be cautious?

  • Pregnant Women: It promotes blood movement, which may be contraindicated during pregnancy. Consult a doctor.
  • Those on Blood Thinners: Because it supports circulation, combining it with anticoagulants (like Warfarin) could increase the risk of bruising or bleeding.
  • Allergies: Individuals with tree nut or wood dust allergies may react to concentrated extracts.

Side Effects: High doses may cause mild nausea, dizziness, or dry mouth due to its 'warming' nature.

Scientific References

  • [1]Li, X., et al. (2018). 'Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity of Dalbergia odorifera extracts.' *Journal of Ethnopharmacology*.
  • [2]Wang, Y., et al. (2015). 'Flavonoids from Dalbergia odorifera and their vasodilatory effects.' *Phytotherapy Research*.
  • [3]Chen, H., et al. (2020). 'Gastroprotective effects of Jiang Xiang (Dalbergia wood) on experimental gastric ulcers.' *Chinese Medicine*.