- Region
- Europe
- Origin
- Europe (eastern Mediterranean), Asia (west)
Europe · Herb · № 233
Cupressus sempervirens
Herb · Europe
Cypress
Cupressus sempervirens
Traditionally attributed effects: antiseptic, antispasmodic, calming, diuretic.
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.
Cautions by tradition (1)
- Natural skin and hair care: Always dilute essential oil.
Preparation
Essential oil, diluted externally; the cones as a decoction for a sitz bath. No dosage is given here.
Use in traditions
The cypress has long been a tree of mourning: the Greeks dedicated it to Hades, and it still stands in cemeteries around the Mediterranean. Hippocrates used cypress vapours for respiratory complaints, and the durable wood was used for temple doors and chests. In aromatherapy the oil is used for varicose veins and haemorrhoids. In herbal magic associated with comfort in loss and mourning, protection, long life and a wand for healing.
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.
Herbal medicine worldwide
Attributed effects
Antiseptic, antispasmodic, calming, diuretic.
Preparation and amount
Essential oil.
Natural skin and hair care
Attributed effects
The fresh, resinous scent is invigorating; used in massage oil for stiff muscles and joints.
Preparation and amount
External: a few drops of essential oil in a bath bag or a massage oil for stiff muscles and joints (see the recipes).
Caution: Always dilute essential oil.
Folklore and herbal magic
Symbolic meanings from folk use and modern herbal magic. These are handed-down associations, not effects.
Comfort in loss and mourning, protection, long life, magic wand for healing, comfort, healing.
Herbal magic and rituals
Attributed effects
In herbal magic associated with mourning and comfort, long life and protection.
Preparation and amount
Around the Mediterranean the cypress has long been the tree of cemeteries: it stays green and stands for mourning and eternity. Greeks and Romans dedicated it to the gods of the underworld; cypress wood was thought not to decay.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- DecoctionHerbal oil (oil infusion)Steam and bath