Cypress

The cypress is a tall, statuesque, conical-shaped evergreen tree. It has a hard durable wood of a reddish-yellow color. Furniture made of cypress wood is impervious to insect attacks.

Common Name:	Cypress
Botanical Name:	Cupressus sempervirens
Family:	Cupressaceae
Location:	United States, Mediteranean, Balkan States, France, Italy, North Africa, Portugal, Spain
Extraction:	Steam Distillation
Parts Used:	Cones, leaves, twigs
Color and Odor:	The essential oil is clear with a hint of yellow. It has a woody, nutty and pleasantly smoky aroma with a slightly spicy, resinous undertone.
Background:	Symbolized "everlastingness" to the ancient Greeks and Romans, who used the wood for building their houses and furniture. The Phoenicians and Cretans also used the wood for building ships. The Egyptians used it for their coffins. The trees are commonly found in churchyards and cemetaries throughout Europe.
Properties:	Astringent, styptic, antispasmodic, sedative, deodorant
Planet:	Saturn
Element:	Earth
Directiont:	North
Magical Influences:	Eases losses, Healing.
Uses:	Repiratory System—Very useful for all respiratory problems with spasms, such as whooping cough and asthma. Also useful for influenza, bronchitis, and emphysema. Circulatory System—Beneficial for heavy periods. It has a vaso-constricting effect, good for haemorrhoids and varicose veins. Reproductive System—Valuable in the treatment of menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes and irritability, and menstrual problems such as premenstrual tension. Skin—Good for excessive perspiration and for deodorizing sweaty feet. Emotions—Cypress is soothing in times of transition, whether moving home or changing career, when the changes are difficult or painful. It is particularly strengthening and comforting when ending relationships or during bereavement. It eases the sadness and helps to strengthen the bereaved. Cypress is and ancient symbol of solace. Also good for sluggish minds.
Blends:
RESPIRATORY CIRCULATORY REPRODUCTIVE Cypress 7 Cypress 7 Cypress 7 Benzoin 3 Chamomile (G) 4 Clary Sage 3 Frankincense 3 Geranium 2 Geranium 2 SKIN EMOTION Cypress 7 Cypress 6 Tea Tree 4 Rose 4 Peppermint 2 Frankincense 2
Bibliography:	Aromatherapy Blends and recipes by Franzesca Watson Copyright © 1995 Thorsons, Harper Parker Publishing Inc. Pp 98-99 Magical Aromatherapy by Scott Cunningham Copyright © 1989 Llewellyn Publications, Inc. pp.81-82