- Region
- Asia
- Origin
- Asia (China, Japan, Korea)
Asia · Herb · № 379
Camellia japonica / C. oleifera
Herb · Asia
Camellia
Camellia japonica / C. oleifera
Traditionally attributed effects: nourishing oil that does not feel greasy.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Preparation
External: camellia oil in patchouli cleanser for oily skin.
Use in traditions
Described in natural skin and hair care. In herbal magic associated with protection, wealth, connection with the spirit, gratitude. In China tea oil has been pressed from the seeds of Camellia oleifera for centuries, as a cooking oil and for the hair. Japanese geisha used tsubaki oil (from C. japonica) for their hairstyles. Tea comes from the related Camellia sinensis.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Natural skin and hair care
Attributed effects
A light oil that sinks in quickly; long used in Japan for skin and hair.
Preparation and amount
External: camellia oil as a light base oil in a cleanser for oily skin (see the recipe).
Folklore and herbal magic
Symbolic meanings from folk use and modern herbal magic. These are handed-down associations, not effects.
Protection, wealth, connection with the spirit, gratitude.
Herbal magic and rituals
Attributed effects
In herbal magic associated with wealth, gratitude and protection.
Preparation and amount
In Japan tsubaki oil from camellia seed was used for centuries by geisha and sumo wrestlers for their hair, and to protect swords from rust. The tea plant is also a camellia (Camellia sinensis). In Japanese culture the camellia stands for winter and, because the flower falls whole, also for a sudden end.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Tea (infusion)