The cypress tree is a statuesque evergreen that grows wild in southern France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Corsica, and North Africa. The specific Latin name sempervirens means “everlasting”, and both the Egyptians and Romans dedicated it to their deities of the underworld.
The essential oil is yellow and has a rich scent similar to the scent of pine needles. It is extracted from the cones of the plant by steam distillation; the main centres of production are in Europe, in Germany and France.
Applications and Effects
Useful when there is an excess of fluids in some way.
- Particularly effective for diarrhoea, water retention, and watery cold.
- Skin: Oily and puffy skin, sweaty feet (when blended with peppermint), wounds.
- Digestive system: Haemorrhoids.
- Circulatory and muscular systems: Cellulite, muscular cramps, poor circulation, rheumatism.
- Reproductive and excretory systems: Heavy and painful periods, menopausal problems, cystitis.
- Nervous system: Nervous tension.
- Mental/emotional effects: The solemn nature of cypress makes it useful during periods of transition such as bereavement. It is also helpful at times for feelings of sadness and self-pity. It can be useful for soothing anger and quietening over-talkative people. It is spiritually cleansing and aids the removal of psychic blocks.
Precautions
Should be used with caution during pregnancy.