Cypress Essential Oil- Benefits, Uses, and Origin
Cypress has been on Earth for millions of years. Aside from its woody aroma that promotes relaxation, it also has antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties listed among its many health benefits.
Photo by Andres Victorero from iStock
Cypress essential oil is harvested from the leaves, twigs, and stems of the cypress tree. The most common source of the oil is the Mediterranean cypress tree (Cupressus sempervirens). This coniferous tree can grow over 35 meters tall and lives up to a thousand years old, with the oldest recorded plant being 4000 years old. It is native in the eastern regions of the Mediterranean, mostly grown as an ornamental plant.
The needles and twigs are where the essential oils are extracted. Its color ranges from colorless to pale yellow. Cypress oil’s scent is described to be woody and fresh with a coniferous aroma, making it a famous component for perfumes. The hint of spice gives the oil a masculine scent and is commonly used in men’s colognes.
Cypress Essential oil's key components are a-pinene, camphene, sabinene, b-pinene, d-3carene, myrcene, a-terpinene, terpinolene, linalool, bornyl acetate, cedrol, and cadinene. Aside from the aroma given off by this oil, these components are responsible for its many health benefits.
Traditional Uses of Cypress Oil
In the olden days, cypress essential oil is diluted in bathwater to treat circulatory problems. The famous Hippocrates was one of the few who used to practice this.
Ancient Egyptians use the aromatic wood of the cypress tree to make sarcophagi for mummies. The oil
The practice of planting cypress trees near burial grounds is common since ancient times. It is believed that the scent that the plant gives off keeps away evil spirits and hides the smell of the decomposing bodies.
Benefits of Using Cypress Essential Oil
Hemorrhoids
When diluted with carrier oil, cypress oil works like wonders in curing hemorrhoids. The concoction applied to the swollen veins soothes the area that experiences discomfort and work against bacteria.
Warts
This essential oil has both an antibacterial and antifungal properties. It works against warts commonly caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and herpes simplex virus type 1. If the cause of the warts is unknown, it is best to speak to a doctor before using the cypress oil as medication.
Antibacterial and antimicrobial
Cypress oil can clean cuts and wounds because of its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. This is attributed to camphene in the oil. But before using it, it is recommended to dilute it first with carrier oil and do a skin test.
If there is no allergic reaction to the skin, it can also lessen the occurrence of acne and pimples.
Antispasmodic
Cypress oil can ease the pain brought about by spasms such as muscle cramps and pulls through increasing the blood circulation. It is also effective in treating restless leg syndrome which can be affect everyday tasks.
It also works against carpal tunnel and helps reduce the appearance of cellulite by decreasing fluid retention and lessen inflammation.
The appearance of varicose veins is common when there is pressure build up in the blood vessels. The oil’s ability to increase blood flow also helps lessen the occurrence of varicose veins.
Overall, cypress oil improves the circulation, which eases the feeling of pain and discomfort.
Flushes out bodily toxins
Cypress oil helps remove toxins from the body by increasing perspiration.
Antioxidant compounds found in cypress oil can also help lower cholesterol level and cleanse the liver.
Helps with blood clotting
Using cypress oil cause contraction of blood vessels which can stop excessive blood flow, allowing clotting. This helps wounds and cuts to heal quickly. Its ability to promote good blood flow also alleviate the symptoms of varicose veins such as swelling.
For women, it helps reduce heavy bleeding during menstruation and is considered a great remedy for endometriosis.
Promotes calm
Cypress oil’s sedative effects help promote calm and relaxation. It is recommended for people under stress, experiencing insomnia, or those working their way out of a trauma.
Adding a few drops of this oil on bath water can relieve anxiety and help treat restlessness. A blend of cypress, lavender, tangerine, and spearmint oil can create a relaxing mood.
Eliminates odor
The oil can be used as a deodorant because of its antibacterial property, which prevents the growth of bacteria that cause body odor. It also leaves a clean and masculine scent on clothes when used with laundry detergent.
For respiratory conditions
Camphene, a component of cypress oil, works against the growth of bacteria and fungi. It helps treat respiratory problems caused by bacterial and fungal infections. It can ease symptoms of respiratory conditions such as congestion and phlegm build up.
Diffusing the oil can help people suffering from asthma and coughs.
Safety Tips and Precautions
If to be applied on the skin, it is best to dilute the oil with other carrier oils to avoid skin irritations.
For women who are breastfeeding or are pregnant, it is best to consider a trip to a physician before using this oil.
It is common for people who are allergic to peaches or cedar to experience the same reaction when using cypress oil.
To people who have bleeding disorders, the oil’s blood clotting ability might seem helpful. But actually, the use of it might prolong the bleeding which might cause bruises. It is best to consult a medical professional for treatment recommendations. For people who are expecting surgery, it is best to avoid using cypress oil two weeks prior to the schedule of the operation to lessen the risk of bleeding during and after.
