Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)
Location: Cypress is found throughout the Mediterranean and is now grown in the Balkan States, France, Italy, North Africa, Portugal and Spain.
Extraction: Steam distilled from the cones, leaves or twigs.
Colour and Odour: The essential oil is clear with a hint of yellow. It has a woody, nutty and pleasantly smoky aroma with a slightly spicy, resinous undertone.
Description: The cypress is a tall, statuesque, conical-shaped evergreen tree. It has a hard, durable wood of reddish-yellow colour. Furniture made from cypress wood is impervious to insect attacks.
Background: Symbolised "everlastingness “to the ancient Greeks and Romans, who used the wood for building houses and furniture. The Phoenicians and Cretans also used the wood for building ships. The Egyptians used it for their coffins. The trees are commonly found in churchyards and cemeteries throughout Europe.
Properties: Astringent, antispasmodic, sedative, deodorant.
Uses
Respiratory System-Very useful for all respiratory problems with spasms, such as whooping cough and asthma.
Reproductive System-Valuable in the treatment of menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes and irritability and menstrual problems such as premenstrual tension.
Skin-Good for excessive perspiration and for deodorising sweaty feet.
Emotion-Cypress is soothing in times of transition, when changes can be difficult or painful. It is particularly strengthening and comforting during bereavement. It eases the sadness and helps to strengthen the bereaved. Cypress is an ancient symbol of solace.
