Ways to Use Cypress Oil.

Ancient civilizations valued the cypress tree for its medicinal uses. In China, the cones were chewed on to heal bleeding gums. The Greeks used it for its comforting scent and often used it to clear their senses and mind. Cypress oil is commonly used today for both industrial and medicinal uses. The soap and perfume industries use it to produce a fresh, evergreen scent. It is often used to create a masculine tone to men’s products like aftershave or cologne. Like other tree-based essential oils, cypress EO provides a woodsy, herbaceous aroma which is refreshing and peaceful.

Top Five Benefits of Cypress Essential Oil

There are a multitude of ways to use cypress EO and tons of benefits. Here is a look at just the top 5 reasons to use this versatile oil.

1. Astringent Properties. Cypress EO has powerful antiseptic properties probably because of the presence of camphene. It is good for helping to heal wounds and infections. It also has antimicrobial qualities that are beneficial for inhibiting the growth of bacteria. It’s often used by the cosmetic industry as an ingredient in soap because it can kill surface bacteria. These properties also make it an exceptional choice for treating sores, acne, pimples, and other skin eruptions.
2. Antispasmodic Properties. Because of its antispasmodic qualities, cypress essential oil is great for helping to alleviate muscle spasms, cramps and muscle pulls. It is often used to treat restless leg syndrome which is characterized by symptoms like throbbing and spasms in the legs. When cypress oil is used topically, it can reduce spasms, increase blood flow and ease chronic pain.
3. Sedative Properties. Cypress essential oil has a sedative effect and can help include calm and relaxed feeling when it is used topically or aromatically. But it can also be energizing and stimulate feelings of ease and happiness. It is often used to relieve anxiety and reduce emotional stress especially after experiencing shock or trauma.
4. Antibacterial Properties. Cypress EO makes a natural deodorant partly due to its masculine fragrance, and partly due to its antibacterial properties. It can prevent the growth of bacteria and reduce body odor. It is also a great, natural option for making homemade cleaners, soaps and laundry detergents.
5. Increase Circulation. Since it can stimulate blood flow, cypress essential oil is effective at treating varicose veins. It can be used to make a salve that increases the blood flow in the legs which can help relieve the extra pressure that causes varicose veins. When cypress EO is applied to the legs topically, it helps the blood flow back to the heart properly. Since it helps increase circulation, it is also beneficial for reducing cellulite. The appearance of cellulite is often due to poor circulation, fluid retention, weak collagen structure, or increased body fat. Cypress oil helps increase blood flow which can help carry away excess fluid which is a contributing factor.

How to Use Cypress Essential Oil to Relieve Muscle Cramps, Pulls or Soreness

After a good exercise session, people can be overly sore. This soreness can be intense for those who haven’t exercised in a while, or those who overdid it at the gym. Even if a person is well hydrated, they can have trouble with soreness or pull a muscle while working out. Cypress oil can be an effective post-workout muscle rub. Make your own by mixing a few drops of the essential oil with your choice of carrier oil and then massage it gently into sore or cramping muscles.

Firm Your Skin with Cypress EO

The astringent properties of cypress essential oil coupled with its ability to improve circulation makes it a great treatment option for skin. It can reduce spider veins, cellulose, and give skin a more vibrant look and smooth feel. It mixes well with other oils too. Make this blend by mixing these ingredients in a glass roller bottle.

• 5 drops of cypress EO
• 5 drops of lavender EO
• 6 drops of patchouli EO
• 2 drops of sandalwood EO
• 4 tablespoons (or about 2 ounces) of your choice of carrier oil

Apply this mixture to your skin every night before going to bed. It can be used on legs, arms, or even under your eyes if you are careful to keep it from getting in the eyes. You’ll notice after using it for a couple of weeks that your skin is firmer.

Using Cypress EO to Make Foaming Hand Soap

Cypress oil has a fresh, natural scent. Along with a great aroma, it can kill germs and bacteria. You can make your own foaming hand soap to get all these benefits and more. It will only take a few minutes to make. You’ll need these items:

• 15 to 20 drops of cypress EO
• 1 teaspoon of your favorite carrier oil
• 2 tablespoons of unscented liquid castile soap
• 1 cup of filtered or distilled water

Fill a foaming soap dispenser with water about ¾ of the way to the top. Then, add the remaining ingredients. Replace the lid and shake the bottle gently to mix the ingredients. Set it by the sink in the bathroom or kitchen.

Using Cypress Essential Oil in the Diffuser

If you want to reap the benefits of cypress EO by using the diffuser, here are three recipes to try.

The Energizer

• 3 drops of Cypress EO
• 2 drops of lemon EO
• 2 drops of rosemary EO

The Relaxer

• 2 drops of cypress EO
• 2 drops of white fir EO
• 3 drops of cedarwood EO

The Invigorator

• 3 drops of cypress EO
• 2 drops of frankincense EO
• 1 drop of peppermint EO
• 1 drop of clove EO