Specifics

Personal Experience, Research, Possible Actions

I have had great results using Cypress to relieve the swelling and pain of varicose veins, especially with a little Lemon oil added to the blend.

Cypress is astringent and therefore useful for areas of excess fluid. Try adding it to skin care blends for oily skin; it is great to use with a clay mask. It can be great for stopping sweaty feet!

When spasmodic coughing is the concern, smelling a few drops of the oil on a tissue can calm the lungs and can also stop an asthma attack in the beginning stages.

Cypress can be used in a diffuser to bring a lovely, woodsy aroma to the room.

Often used in blends for menstrual symptoms and to reduce cramps. Great for restless leg syndrome.

It is said that Christ was crucified upon a cross of Cypress.  Katherarine Koeppen states this is a great oil to use when dealing with the death of a loved one or when going through any major transitions in life.  In Chinese Medicine, Katherine quotes, " The essential oil is renowned for its ability to  move fluids, both blood and lymph.  Circulatory stagnation can often result in mental stagnation.  The liver, a very water organ that TCM associates with grief, rules formulation of plans and strategies, the ability to envision change, as well as the creativity and will to carry through.  When the liver is stagnant, a person can becomer inflexible, apathetic, indecisivie, irritable, depressed and grief-stricken.  Cypress supports circulation, tonifies the liver and pushes this type of individual forward." 

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Therapeutic Properties

• Anti-infectious
• Anti-inflammatory - alleviates inflammation, cooling
• Antirheumatic - prevents and/or relieves rheumatic pain and swelling
• Antiseptic - assists in fighting germs/infections
• Antispasmodic - relieves spasms and cramps
• Astringent - contracts and tightens tissue
• Decongestant/vasoconstrictor - veins and lymph
• Diuretic - aids in reduction of fluids
• Tonic - nervous system

Emotional and Energetic Qualities

Calms excessive thinking and talking
Soothes when feeling overwhelmed
Purifies and cleanses both psychically and physically
Eases major life transitions
Assists grief, trauma or transition

Recipe

For Spasmodic Cough
2 drops Cypress
1 drop Frankincense
1 drop Opoponax

Drip onto a tissue. Inhale deeply for a few minutes.

References:

1. Battaglia S. The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. 2nd edition, The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Australia, 2003
2. Davis P. Aromatherapy an A-Z. New revised edition C.W. Daniel Company Limited, England, 1999
3. Keville, K. Aromatherapy, A Complete Guide to the Healing Art, The Crossing press, USA, 1995
4. Mojay G. Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit, Henry Holt and Company Inc., England, 1996
5. Price S. Aromatherapy for Health Professionals, Churchill Livingstone, 1995
6. Schnaubelt K. Advanced Aromatherapy, The Science of Essential Oil Therapy, Healing Arts Press, USA, 1998
7. Tisserand R. The Art of Aromatherapy, Healing Arts Press, USA, 1977

Safety

If oxidized it may cause skin irritation or sensitisation. Some books say to avoid the essential oil during pregnancy, but there is no research to support this statement.