DAVANA (Artemissia pollens Wall.) is an important high valued aromatic herb which belongs to the family Asteraceae. The plant is commercially cultivated in South India. Davana is traditionally used in religious ceremonies and in making garlands, bouquets, floral decorations and floral chaplets, lending an element of freshness and a rich sumptuousness of fragrance to religious occasions. The essential oil of Davana extracted by steam distillation is recognized as one of the most useful essential oilsfor formulating natural flavours that are used in cakes, pastries and beverages. The oil is used in expensive perfumery and cosmetic compositions. Davana is a short duration winter crop, growing well on a rich sandy loam soil with good drainage. It is much prized in India for its delicate fragrance.
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