Aussie Oils 2 - Fragonia™

Second in our series of Australian Oil introductions, by Sandy Barrett.

In 1996, Agonis Fragrans was recognized as having commercial value, but limited supply hindered

promotion.    Historically recognized by the cut flower industry as “coarse tea tree”, the name Fragonia reflects the fragrant nature of both the foliage and the essential oil.    

From steam distillation of the leaves comes an oil described by Tony Burfield as “a pleasant fresh cineolic odour with a hint of a citrus note (which becomes more pronounced after a few minutes) mixed with a slight spicy cinnamon tonality and sweet balsamic undertones. The dry down is very faint being sweet, soapy and woody balsamic." (copyright Tony Burfield 2004).     In-depth analysis of the species revealed that different chemotypes of the same species existed.  (1)

In vitro, this oil had similar anti-microbial abilities to other essential oils, including tea tree.  As well, the School of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Western Australia, found in-vitro, the oil inhibits such immune responses as the secretion of a glycoprotein (IFNy) known to be involved in the inflammatory process.  Though further studies are required to prove effectiveness and safety, this implies that the oil may become useful as an anti-inflammatory.   Future studies hope to determine the effect on other cell types.  (2)

In 2001, the Paperbark Company established a plantation on the southern coast of Western Australia specifically for these small shrubs.  Distribution of Fragonia™ began in 2003.  Concern that increased marketing of the oil would result in other plantations cropping up that would produce an oil with inaccurate constituent content led to the trademarking of “Fragonia”.  (2)

        “There is concern that to release clinical results now may encourage commercial interest by other parties which may result in uncontrolled planting of different chemotypes and erroneous and fanciful claims made relative to this new oil.  At this stage, this could significantly complicate negotiations and the orderly development of this new product.  Adverse initial publicity will damage public awareness and future marketability.” ”. - Found and Associates (Appendix 6)   (2)

In an RIRDC report, the company explained:  “The oil extracted from the leaves of Agonis fragrans would appear to have significant potential in the the therapeutic market and this is where most attention to date has been applied.  This sector of the market only accounts for about 6% of the essential oils used worldwide.  However, there is increased interest being shown by the fragrance-sector. 

Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory testing has been undertaken, with results for the former being very encouraging.  The pleasant scent of this oil will likely support the use of this oil in this area.  Early work has identified the major constituents of 1,8 cineole, alpha pinene, and linalool as being indicative of possible application in remedial therapies for joint, muscle and arthritis pain (Mark Webb pers com).  The constituents are also indicative of application to remedial therapies for respiratory infections (Mark Webb pers com).  

In addition to the anti-microbial aspects of the oil, there is considerable research being undertaken into the likely emotionally balancing activities of certain chemotype/constituent varieties of the oil.  One of the primary aspects which has been identified as contributing to this seemingly significant property is the “balance” of a particular chemotype of the genus.  The chemical constituents are loosely grouped as oxides (1,8 cineole), monoterpenes and monoterpenols, all in perfect balance.  This aspect of the oil is very exciting and is initially where a lot of the early attention is being directed.” (2)

Dr. Daniel Peneol, founder of Medical Aromatherapy and Quantum Aromatherapy, wrote of his experience with Fragonia in his newsletter in August, 2007, which I found requoted several times online: 

"From the chemistry approach, the striking element is the extremely well-balanced composition of the oil. In fact, as I was working on the results of the GC analysis,  it occurred to me that for the very first time I was gazing at a unique formula. I am not referring to the individual molecules that make up the oil here. I am referring to the respective proportions of the families of components between them and the proportions of the individual components between them, especially inside the monoterpenols." (4)  ( The company cites a near perfect ratio of oxides, monterpenes and monoterpenols to be 1:1:1).  (1)

Robert Tisserand indicates that there is risk of skin sensitization if oxidized.  (3)

(1)  The PaperBark Company - http://www.paperbarkoils.com.au/essential-oils.html#oil_agnois

(2) A New Essential Oil – Agonis fragrans - Publications https://rirdc.infoservices.com.au/downloads/06-090

(3)  Robert Tisserand/Rodney Young.  Second Edition, Essential Oil Safety:  Churchill Livingstone, 2013.
Photo courtesy of John Day, The Paperbark Company

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My comments:

Dr. Danial Peneol was one of the first to publicize this amazing oil outside of Australia. At least two issues of the Australian journal "AromatherapyToday" were dedicated to it.   A quick Google search will show you a long list of both research articles and shared experiences from those who have worked with it.  

I made an inhaler for my grandson to help with his chronic Asthma and the results were better than any of us expected.    We use it in the blend Christi developed for my COPD.  I have been known to put a few drops in my AromaStone when sleep eludes me. We would recommend adding it to any respiratory blend.  Robbi Zeck and others write of the emotional and spiritual effects of this amazing oil.     I was, initially, a skeptic, but have grown to love and rely upon it. I urge you to research more recommended uses. 

Read more and order your own Fragonia™ here.