The Muhuhu Tree (Brachyleana hutchinsii) grows in Kenya and is harvested primarily for wood carvings, furniture and construction because of its durability and natural colored marble grain design when polished. High quality Muhuhu essential oil is rare because Brachyleana hutchinsii trees are harvested primarily for furniture making coupled with few skilled distillers producing essential oil.
The sweet balsamic undertone in Muhuhu essential oil rounds out its woody, faintly smoky side that can be likened to a combination of Cedarwood and Vetiver. Although the sweet balsamic aroma of Muhuhu essential oil melds with its woody note for a somewhat similar Sandalwood smell it should not be considered a replacement for true Sandalwood oils. In natural perfume Muhuhu is an excellent fixative and interesting essential oil to use because it is base note heavy while not affecting the overall bouquet of other aromatics it is combined with.
Aromatherapy use of Muhuhu essential oil has limited research. Some sources indicate it is beneficial as an anti-inflammatory. Because it is mildly astringent Muhuhu is seen beneficial for acne and oily skin. Muhuhu is aromatically beneficial for combating stress, anxiety and depressed mood. Grounding and calming, Muhuhu adds depth of character to meditation blends.