Cypress
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Cupressus sempervirens
BIOTANICAL FAMILY
Cupressaceae
COUNTRIES OF ORIGIN
Italy, Spain, France, Portugal, Spain, the Balkans, and Morocco
PLANT PART
Leaves, twigs, cones
NOTE
Middle-base
EXTRACTION METHOD
Steam Distilled
AROMA
Fresh, coniferous, deep-forest and woodsy with some fruity tones
GC/MS REPORT
Monoterpenes: α-pinene (51%) δ-3-carene (19%)
NOTES ON CHEMICAL COMPONENTS
α-pinene's known therapeutic properties include: analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antinociceptive, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anxiolytic, and gastroprotective. δ-3-carene's known therapeutic properties include: anti-inflammatory, mucolytic, and bone loss prevention.
THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS
Respiratory system - expectorant and mucolytic., it helps relieve acute and chronic coughs, colds and respiratory issues. Musculoskeletal system - helps relieve rheumatic conditions; antispasmodic. Circulatory system - recommended for treating varicous veins, oedema, and haemorrhoids. Reproductive system - menstrual regulator; recommended for menopausal problems, especially hot flashes. Skin care - antiseptic and astringent, recommended for acne, oily skin, and excessive perspiration.
EMOTIONAL/ENERGETIC QUALITIES
Promotes acceptance and optimism; helps relaxing, stopping crying spells, dealing with profound life changes; comforting and balancing.
ADMINISTRATION METHOD
Bath, topical application (diluted), and inhalation
ETNOBOTANY LORE AND ANCIENT PARTICLES
The tree is an extremely old species dating back to Pliocene - 5.8 to 1.8 million years ago - and some trees are believed to be 2000 years old! It is native to the eastern Mediterranean and most of the oil is distilled in southern France. The Egyptians burned it with pine and juniper to purify the air in the temples. The ancient Greeks and Romans planted it on temple and burial grounds; they also mashed the cones and steeped them in wine to treat dysentery, bladder infections, internal bleeding, coughs (including coughing up blood). Traditional medicine also recommended Cypress oil for whooping coughs, rheumatism, influenza, and ovarian disorders. Most of the information we know about Cypress oil comes from ancient herbals.
SAFETY
Overall safe and non-toxic, however skin sensitization may occur if the oil is oxidized.
DISCLAIMER: The information provided above is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease; these statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Please consult a licensed healthcare specialist for specific medical advice.