Cypress
The cypress tree has long been a source of incense for ritual or religious purposes and a source of therapeutic oil. The essential oil is steam distilled from the needles and twigs.
The oil has a fresh, sweet, clean smell, often used in perfume, the colour is pale yellow or green.
Key actions:
Toning, calming and soothing.
Benefits:
Respiratory
Inhalation can help calm the respiratory system and ease breathing. Has an antispasmodic action that can soothe hacking coughs.
Circulation
Massage into legs to tone varicose veins. Use as a sitz bath for haemorrhoids.
Skin
Has an astringent quality that can help treat excessively oily skin.
Deodorant
Has a strong deodorising effect, excellent for relieving foot odour.
Women's health
Helps ease menstrual discomfort and reduce water retention.
Usage:
See 'Safe Use of Essential Oils' article
Bath, massage, diffusion, mouthwash or foot soak
Blends well with: Lemon, Lavender, Ginger, Juniper, Pine and Geranium
Safety:
Safe in dilution