10/21/2021
Eugenia axillaris White Stopper
The characteristic smell of the white stopper is caused by the evaporation of volatile chemicals from the leaves. Generally speaking, volatile, or essential, oils evaporate at normal temperatures. They are called essential because they contain the essence of the plant’s fragrance; it does not mean “essential” for metabolic activity (such as amino acids). But, the flowers and fruits are essential for insects and birds.
Some people say that this is the most desirable of all of the stoppers, a sentimental favorite with a distinctive odor, woodsy, earthy, the natural smell of the hardwood hammock. Interestingly, the species “axillaris” comes from the name for the underarm area of the human body, which should not deter you from installing these on your project.
The exact substance that creates the aroma is guaiol, which, studies show, has anti-microbial properties and has long use in folk medicine for a variety of purposes: anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-anxiety, pain relief and cancer inhibition. The use of plant products has the potential to supplement, and may eventually replace, chemotherapy.
So, go on out there and take a whiff! It’s good for your health!