Rebecca’s oil of the month: cypress
Perfect for the cold winter months, cypress has been well known for its therapeutic benefits throughout history, going as far back as the time of the Ancient Greeks. The physician Hippocrates, regarded as the ‘father of medicine’, is said to have used cypress oil in his bath to support healthy circulation, and Greek physicians would encourage anyone with lung problems to visit the Crete islands, which were packed full of cypress trees. The oil was also used in traditional remedies in multiple parts of the world to treat pain and inflammation, skin conditions, headaches, colds and coughs, and its oil remains a popular ingredient in many natural formulations addressing similar ailments. It could be the perfect oil to use, says our essential oils expert Rebecca Marr, if you’re one of the 80% of people who’ve not stuck to their New Year resolutions by the end of January!
Most commonly found in the Mediterranean, the cypress plant family is 17 million years old, which makes it one of the oldest, with the trees frequently called ‘ever-alive’ for their ability to live for hundreds of years. Cypress essential oil is derived leaves of the tall evergreen tree, and has a clean aroma with deep, earthy, smoky tones that’s energising and refreshing. You’ll probably recognise the aroma as it is frequently used in spas and by massage therapists because of its many benefits to the skin. It has a grounding, yet stimulating effect on the emotions, making it a popular oil for massages, and its fresh, woody aroma promotes relaxation.
Spiritual benefits
Cypress essential oil maintains the spirit by connecting the body and mind with the soul to promote inner wisdom. It helps the mind cope when starting a new chapter in life, as well as calming overstretched emotions.
This is the oil you would go to for moving a stuck or slow-moving healing process forward. It has a strong ability to help a person release stagnant energies, traumas and rigid or perfectionistic tendencies. Watch out because cypress will require you to work hard on your heart and your mind to emerge a more flexible person able to flow with life! As we learn how to let go we allow things to unfold naturally and we trust the process of life, enjoying it. This is why cypress is powerful in that it will help a person struggling with loss, the need to control, tension and mental stiffness.
Cypress could be the perfect oil to use if you’re one of the 80% of people who’ve not stuck to their New Year resolutions! – Rebecca Marr, our essential oils expert
Uses
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Before a long run apply to feet and legs for an energising boost.
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Mix cypress and grapefruit essential oil with a carrier oil for an invigorating massage.
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Add one to two drops to toner to help improve the appearance of oily skin.
Directions for use