Cypress

• Therapeutic Properties: Astringent; Antiseptic; Antibacterial; Antispasmodic; Antiperspirant; Deodorant; Diuretic; Expectorant; Hemostatic; Vasoconstrictor; Circulatory stimulant; Respiratory-supportive; Antioxidant; Anti-inflammatory; Nervine; Tonic Some laboratory research has demonstrated antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity associated with Cypress oil and its constituents. These laboratory findings should not be interpreted as proof that the oil treats disease in humans.
• Psychological: Grounding; Calming; Centering; May help provide emotional stability; Traditionally used during periods of grief and emotional transition; May help reduce feelings of nervous tension; Can provide a fresh and uplifting atmosphere; Traditionally associated with emotional strength and resilience. Cypress is often chosen in aromatherapy when a person wants an aroma that is both grounding and refreshing, rather than heavily sedating.
• Respiratory System: Traditionally described as an expectorant; May help create a feeling of clearer breathing; Can be included in respiratory aromatherapy blends. Cypress has traditionally been used as a respiratory-supporting oil. Its fresh evergreen aroma can be useful in diffuser blends during seasonal respiratory discomfort Cypress should not be relied upon as a treatment for asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis or other respiratory disease.
• Circulatory System: Traditionally used to support healthy circulation; May be included in massage blends for tired or heavy-feeling legs; Traditionally described as a vasoconstrictor; Used in aromatherapy preparations intended to support the venous circulation. Cypress is traditionally associated with the circulatory system and has been used in massage preparations. These are traditional aromatherapy applications and should not replace medical treatment for circulatory disorders.
• Muscles & Joints: May help soothe muscular tension; Traditionally used for muscle spasms; May be included in massage preparations following physical activity; Can be combined with Lavender, Rosemary or Peppermint for a cooling and relaxing massage blend. Cypress is traditionally described as antispasmodic and is frequently used in massage blends.
• Feet & Perspiration: Traditionally used for excessive sweating; Can be included in foot-care preparations; Useful in natural deodorizing blends; May be combined with Tea Tree, Lavender or Lemon for foot-care preparations. Cypress has a particularly long-standing reputation as an antiperspirant and deodorizing oil.
• Skin Care: Useful in preparations for oily skin; Traditionally used to help reduce excessive perspiration; May be included in deodorizing preparations; Can be incorporated into appropriately diluted skin-care blends; Traditionally used in preparations for minor skin concerns. Cypress is traditionally valued for its astringent and cleansing qualities. Because essential oils are highly concentrated, they should be properly diluted before application to the skin.

Aromatherapy: Cypress is very useful in a diffuser. Add several drops to a diffuser according to the diffuser manufacturer's instructions. Use alone or combine with Lavender, Frankincense, Cedarwood or citrus oils. Particularly suitable for meditation, grounding and relaxation. Its fresh evergreen aroma can also be useful for creating a clean atmosphere.

Topical: Cypress should be diluted in an appropriate carrier oil before topical application. Use in massage oils. Apply appropriately diluted oil to areas of muscular tension. Use in foot-care preparations. Incorporate into properly formulated deodorizing preparations. A patch test is advisable before widespread use.

Ingestion: Ingestion of Cypress essential oil is not recommended as a home remedy. Concentrated essential oils can cause irritation and toxicity when swallowed. Internal use should only be considered when a specific product is expressly formulated and labeled for internal use and under the direction of an appropriately qualified professional.

Safety: Always dilute Cypress before applying it to the skin. Avoid contact with the eyes and mucous membranes. Do not apply to damaged or irritated skin. Perform a patch test before extensive topical use. Keep concentrated essential oil away from children. Do not ingest concentrated Cypress essential oil. Use caution around individuals with known sensitivities to essential oils. If pregnant, nursing, taking medications or under medical care, consult an appropriate health professional before therapeutic use. Because Cypress oil can have effects associated with blood vessels and circulation, individuals taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication should discuss therapeutic use with a qualified healthcare professional.

Aromatherapy: Cypress is an excellent oil for creating a fresh, clean, grounded and emotionally balancing atmosphere. It is particularly suited for: Meditation Emotional grounding Grief and transitions Massage Muscle relaxation Foot care Deodorizing Oily-skin preparations Outdoor and woodland-inspired blends Freshening the air Respiratory aromatherapy blends Cypress blends especially well with Lavender, Frankincense, Cedarwood, Juniper Berry, Rosemary, Lemon, Bergamot, Orange, Clary Sage and Geranium. Its clean evergreen character makes Cypress especially useful when a blend needs a grounding woody note without becoming too heavy or resinous.