Cypress Oil

Technical Data Sheets :

Botanical Name: Cupressus sempervirens

Family Name: Cupressaceae

Common Method of Extraction: Cypress oil is extracted from the needles and twigs of young branches by steam distillation

Parts Used: Needles and twigs

Note Classification:

Aroma: Cypress oil is greenish or yellowish in colour and has a fresh, herbaceous, evergreen and woody scent which is calming and stimulating.

Largest Producing Countries: Cypress tree is a native to Southern Europe, but now has spread to North Africa and North America. It’s also widely cultivated in Spain, France, and Morocco.

Traditional Use: The cypress tree was used during the ancient civilisation for medical purposes. The Chinese chewed the cones to heal bleeding gums and Greeks liked the comforting smell and used it to clear their minds and senses. Cypress oil is used for industrial and medicinal purposes. It is also widely used in perfume and soap industries because of its evergreen aroma. It is popularly used in men’s cologne and after shave lotions. Cypress oil can be used topically or inhaled through vapour therapy and it can be ingested in limited quantity. It controls blood flow and eases menstrual issues, detoxify and decongest the lymphatic system, reduce water retention and relax muscles.

Blends Well With: Cypress oil blends well with bergamot, clary sage, juniper, lavender, sandalwood, Rosemary, marjoram, Frankincense and all citrus oils.

Of Interest: The Cypress tree is associated with mortality, anguish and the immortal soul. The Phoenicians and Cretans utilised the wood for building ships and houses, and the Egyptians made sarcophagi from it. The Greeks used it to carve statues of their gods. The Greek word ‘Sempervirens’, from which the botanical name is derived, means ‘lives forever’ and the tree also gave its name to the island of Cypress, where it is worshipped. The legend says the cross of Jesus had been made of cypress wood and the tree generally seems to be associated with death. The tree is also known for the fragrant and its relaxing oil. Cypress tree is a perennial tree which grows to about 28 meters in height. Even though the tree originated from the East, it is now mostly found in gardens and cemeteries in the Mediterranean region. Cypress tree is an evergreen tree with dark green foliage, small flowers and round brown-grey cones with seed nuts inside. This tree is softwood that is ideal for making vases and other novelty items.

Safety Data: Cypress oil is generally safe and non-toxic and non-irritant. It is better to do a patch test before using the oil on the body to check for allergic reactions. The oil can be diluted with carrier oil like jojoba, sunflower and argan oil if you feel that you have sensitivity towards the oil. It is better to consult a qualified health care expert before using cypress oil orally and get the right dosage for you. Pregnant women and nursing moms should avoid using the oil without consulting the expert. Cypress oil should not be used on very young children also without the guidance of an expert.