Fennel Seed Oil

Posted on May 19, 2025 by AyurvedicOils

“Every lactating mother should have this oil at hand because it helps with milk production and eases colic. It is useful during pregnancy to prevent morning sickness, and is excellent for the traveler, helping to reduce sea sickness and jet lag”, says Light Miller and Bryan Miller in their book Ayurveda and Aromatherapy.

Fennel is one remarkable herb with bunch of culinary and remedial benefits that embraces your food with its innate aroma and rich flavor blended with numerous healing attributes.

Owing its origin to the coastal Mediterranean region Fennel is botanically called as Foeniculum vulgare. It has been accepted and cultivated worldwide for its enormous benefits that some countries like India, Pakistan and China hold Fennel seeds and its essential oil as an important ingredient of their traditional cooking.

With the whole plant serving humanity with its unique qualities, Fennel fruits usually entitled as seeds when dried contributes to the extraction of Fennel seed oil by the process of steam distillation. Bearing anethole as the predominant flavoring substance, Fennel seed oil serves as an aid for various purposes.

Fennel is called in Ayurveda as Shatapushpa, which means hundred flowers. It has a long historical use in this ancient healing methodology in the treatment of cold, indigestion, gas, flatulence, PMS, low agni, abscesses, overindulgence in nicotine or alcohol, cramps, colic in children and menstrual problems.

Purchase Fennel Seed Oil – Retail – 4oz – CLICK HERE

Historical uses and importance of Fennel and its essential oil:

Numerous sources state that the Romans, English, Greek and Asians were well known of the extensive healing values of this aromatic herb. With its name engraved in the nine herbs charm practiced in the 10^th century, Fennel along with other herbs was intended to treat poisonous infections and other diseases.

The sweet, strong and pleasing aroma of this herb earned global importance and the poetic scholar Milton had mentioned the quality of Fennel in one of his works that says:

‘A savoury odour blown,

Grateful to appetite, more pleased my sense

Than smell of sweetest Fennel.’

Referred to as the herb of sight by the ancient Romans, Fennel herb was employed to improve the eyesight of humans and animals. Pliny the Elder, a Roman author and natural philosopher had mentioned in his book ‘The Natural History’ that the serpents would rub against the Fennel herb at the time of shedding off their skin to improve their sight.

Fennel herb aids in shedding off the excess fat, the reason for which the Greeks called this herb as Marathon, derived from the word ‘Mariano’ which means ‘to grow thin’. It is interesting to know that the Marathon event conducted in memory of the Greek soldier Pheidippides literally means ‘Land of Fennels’. It possesses excellent appetite suppressing properties that was widely used by soldiers during long journey and by common men while holding religious fasts.

Fennel herb was considered to bear the potential of protecting one from witchcraft and driving away the evil forces for which it was hung in the entrance of every home. Since it bears the attribute of strengthening oneself, athletes commonly use fennel seeds as a supplement to provide instant energy and strength.

Fennel seed has been used since ages that it has been mentioned in one of the works of Hildegard of Bingen who belonged to the middle ages but was recently crowned as the Doctor of the Church by Pope Benedict XVI for her renowned works in the field of medicine.

Fennel seeds and leaves are used in culinary as an aromatic and flavoring element. The Fennel bulbs are used as a vegetable that can be taken raw as well as cooked. It also helps in alleviating womanly health issues and is efficient in boosting up the mental sturdiness thus making one emotionally strong. Fennel seed oil is widely used for its stomachic properties as it aids in digestion thus healing a variety of digestive disorders.

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Fennel Seed oil:

Fennel seed oil comprises of numerous chemical constituents of which the majority is anethole. The other components include α-Pinene, Camphene, Sabinene, β-Pinene, Myrcene, phellandrene, o-Cymene, Limonene, Eucalyptol, Terpinene, Fenchone, Linalool, Camphor, Estragole, Fenchyl acetate, Cumic aldehyde and p-Anisaldehyde.

Fennel seed oil serves as an excellent source of various healing attributes such as carminative, digestive, stomachic, diuretic, emmenagogue, antispasmodic, antiseptic, depurative, expectorant, galactogogue, anti-diabetic, analgesic, estrogenic, anti-toxic and tonic.

Ayurvedic Health Benefits of Fennel Seed Oil:

Ayurveda is a noble child of the ancient Indian tradition, the country with the world’s oldest historical references. This ancient healing methodology is more than 5,000 years old and is said have mentioned in Atharvaveda, one among the 4 prominent Vedic texts of India. Ayurveda is known as the science of holistic healing that aims at longevity and healthy aging through the use of natural medications and healthy lifestyle.

Ayurveda trusts that everything on earth is a part of nature and is made up of the five vital elements of nature namely fire, water, earth, air and space.

Leading a harmonious or balanced living with nature supports absolute health and imbalance causes illnesses. Every human being, according to Ayurveda is made up of an unique individual constitution that consists three biological energies known as doshas.

Doshas or Ayurvedic body types are nothing but a representation or a combination of the five vital elements. Vata dosha stands for air and space, pitta symbolizes fire and water and kapha represents water and earth.

Every individual has a predominance of any one of these doshas and this predominance determines their personality, attributes and behavior. Balance between these biological energies support hale and heartiness and imbalance between these doshas pave way for diseases.

Ayurvedic remedies like essential oils, herbs, yoga, meditation, physical exercises, Ayurvedic routine, balanced lifestyle and prayers aim at striking perfect balance between these doshas. Fennel seed oil is said to have equal effects on all the three doshas.

The Ayurvedic health benefits of Fennel Seed oil are:

1. Alleviates digestive disorders:

Fennel seeds and its essential oil have been proved as amazing natural remedies for all kinds of digestive disorders. It is one of the best accepted carminative oil that assists in expelling gas accumulated in the intestines and prevents the formation of gas thus protecting one from bloating and abdominal cramps due to gas. It is for this reason Fennel seeds are traditionally used in the preparation of gripe water to treat colic in infants and to prevent ulcer and acidity in adults.

A 2003 study on the effect of Fennel seed oil emulsion in infantile colic concludes that the use of Fennel oil considerably comforted the infants from colic with no side effects when compared to those who were treated with placebo.

Blend 2 drops of Fennel seed oil with 1 ml of sesame oil and massage it on your stomach and abdomen. As a natural stimulant, Fennel oil massage can help in stimulating the secretion of gastric juices and digestive enzymes such as bile and promotes the process of digestion.

It also regulates the peristaltic movement of the intestines thus aiding irregular bowel movements and constipation. Moreover, it possesses anti- fungal and anti microbial properties that can effectively kill infectious micro organisms in the intestines.

Fennel seed oil has antispasmodic properties that relax the smooth muscles of the intestines and results in quick recovery from pains and abdominal discomfort caused due to indigestion, heartburn, bloating etc.

Unlike the other spices, Fennel seed oil has a unique cooling effect that pacifies the intestines and muscles of the stomach and helps in curing stomach ulcer. Thus Fennel essential oil is used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for treating indigestion, gastroenteritis, stomach upset, flatulence and hernias.

Rich in anethole, Fennel seeds are used as a trusted mouth freshener in Indian restaurants and homes. Popularly known as Mukhwas meaning mouth freshener, the sweet coated Fennel seeds are used as an after-meal snack.

It is for this reason Fennel is often employed in the preparation of toothpaste, liquors, desserts, culinary and mouth fresheners. Add 1 drop of Fennel oil in a cup of warm water and use it as a gargle after meals to keep away from microbes and fight against bad odor or halitosis.

2. Treats respiratory tract infections:

Fennel seed oil serves as an excellent respiratory aid with its spicy, peppery and slightly earthy aroma and expectorant properties. Chewing Fennel seeds refreshes your breath and its essential oil assists in treating respiratory tract infections effectively.

Fennel seed oil has anti-microbial and expectorant properties that help in fighting against harmful bacteria and viruses that cling to your respiratory tract, resulting in heavy deposits of mucus and phlegm.

Adding 2 drops of Fennel oil in steam inhalation or warm bathing water can work wonders in alleviating your respiratory infections as it acts as a natural expectorant, helping in loosening huge deposits of mucus, thus relieving you from all respiratory tract infections such as whooping cough, cold, bronchitis, allergies and breathing difficulties etc.

3. Heals womanly health concerns:

Fennel seed oil possesses female reproductive hormones, which are known to stimulate and regulate the secretion of estrogen in women. Bryan Miller and Light Miller have said in their book Ayurveda and Aromatherapy that Fennel oil is very useful in treating menopause and PMS with its rich content of phyto-estrogens, for which this oil is used frequently in the manufacturing breast tightening and enlarging creams.

Gently massage your lower abdomen with 3 drops of Fennel oil blended with 1.5 ml of sweet almond oil for treating irregularities in the menstrual cycle, problems associated with menopause, mood swings, dysmennorhea, blocked menstruation, nervousness and abdominal pain. This massage can also be helpful in facilitating child birth.

Fennel seed oil is used after child birth in India mainly to facilitate the removal of toxins from the uterus, support natural contraction of the uterus and also to increase the quantity and quality of the breast milk in lactating mothers. A study on estrogenic property of Fennel seed oil has proved that an acetone extract from fennel seeds had estrogenic effects on the genital organs of male and female rats.

4. Detoxifies the body and promotes weight loss:

Obesity or overweight is one vast roof that can encompass one with a cluster of diseases. Fennel seed oil is an excellent cleansing agent that naturally detoxifies your body by excreting the toxins, excess fluids or water deposits, salt, harmful fats, bad cholesterol and uric acid deposits.

Being a diuretic, Fennel oil increases the quantity and regularity of urinating and helps in attenuation of hypertension, treatment of burning or difficult urination and inflammation due to water retention in the body.

The sweet and refreshing aroma of this oil suppresses the appetite, thus largely decreasing the longing for food. Add 2 to 3 drops of Fennel oil to your hankie, tissues or air fresheners for decreasing your appetite and granting you a feeling of fullness for a longer duration.

Fennel seed oil when added to a massage blend, consisting of 2 drops of this oil with 1 ml of sesame oil works effectively in the filtering toxins from the blood, thus protecting the liver from detrimental toxic substances. Fennel oil has been marked as a useful essential oil in toning the body with its diuretic property and be useful in dealing with obesity.

Along with detoxifying, Fennel seed oil also assists in boosting the process of metabolism and suppressing the appetite. This oil also has melatonin, which has the ability of relaxing the muscles, smoothing the nerves and resulting in a sound, peaceful sleep that may help one to control from gaining extra weight and protects from some serious disorders like cardiovascular diseases that results due to obesity.

5. Strengthens you emotionally:

Fennel seed oil helps in relaxing the mind, calming the nerves and pacifying the nervous system. Adding 2 drops of this oil in diffuser or vaporizer aids in getting rid of emotional stress, anxiety and fear. Inhaling this invigorating aroma helps in building up self confidence, enhancing the power of self-acceptance and influencing the qualities of innate love for self and others as well.

Along with its ability to help maintain a healthy physique, Fennel seed oil also boosts up your inner spirit and motivates you from within. It is for this dignified cause, athletes often use Fennel seeds as a supplementary for nourishing positive energy and affirmative thoughts.

6. Fights against free radicals:

Numerous studies have proved that Fennel seed oil possesses strong anti-oxidant properties that help in the treatment of pharmacological ailments. This property assists in fighting effectively against the free radicals that result in causing aging symptoms and paving way for the growth of cancerous or malignant tumors.

As an anti-oxidant, Fennel oil tones the skin by strengthening the connective tissues and efficiently treats wrinkles and the other signs of aging, thus making you to feel younger from within and glow with natural beauty. This attribute is also implemented in oral care for supporting strong teeth and gums. It fights against infections and helps in treating acne, pimples and other skin disorders.

Mix 2 drops of Fennel oil with 1 ml of virgin olive oil or jojoba oil and gently massage on wrinkles, dark spots, acne, marks, dull and lifeless skin. This enhances good blood circulation and promotes cellular regeneration.

7. Effective in relieving you from inflammation, spasms and aids in quick wound healing:

Fennel seed oil is an effective antiseptic, which helps in killing harmful microbes, promotes quick healing of wounds and prevents it from becoming septic. By this way, Fennel oil thwarts the onset of Tetanus, for which it is often used in many ointments and is also used in poultices to treat poisonous bites.

It is an excellent source of anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties. Massaging the affected part with 2 drops of Fennel oil blended with 1 ml of warm sesame oil helps in alleviating inflammation, relieving pain and reducing swelling and promoting blood circulation. This massage also helps in supporting proper functioning of the circulatory system. It is for all these reasons Fennel oil has been used as an effective traditional remedy for rheumatism, arthritis and muscular cramps.

Using 3 drops of Fennel oil in hot compress can assist in quicker recovery of spasms and muscle contractions that occur due to hiccups, chronic coughs and epilepsies. Mix 1 drop of Fennel oil with 10 drops of coconut oil and apply it gently on wounds and infections for quicker healing.

Other health benefits of Fennel Seed Oil:

Fennel seed oil is used to improve eyesight and treat cloudy eyes since ancient times. Even though a 2008 article published in PubMed states that fennel extract is found to be effective in treating rabbits with glaucoma, further research is yet to be done in its application for human beings.

Fennel has the power of driving away fleas and its powder is used in kennels and stables. It is used as a preservative in pickles and also in the preservation of fruits and vegetables mainly because of its anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties. It is also used in the manufacture of soaps, disinfectant cleaners and dental products for its antiseptic and aromatic properties.

Disclaimer:

This information is only for the purpose of education and is not intended to diagnose or substitute any prescribed medication or professional medical advice. Do not use essential oils internally and always use essential oils topically in a diluted form, as organic and pure essential oils are highly concentrated substances. Always consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before choosing the suitable essential oil for your unique individual constitution and health condition.

Thought for the day:

Nothing is more memorable than a smell. One scent can be unexpected, momentary and fleeting, yet conjure up a childhood summer beside a lake in the mountains. -Diane Ackerman

Suggested Reading:

Fennel Greats: Delicious Fennel Recipes, The Top 79 Fennel Recipes by Jo Franks
Ayurveda & Aromatherapy: The Earth Essential Guide to Ancient Wisdom and Modern Healing by Dr. Light Miller, Dr. Bryan Miller
Natural Solutions to PCOS: How to Eliminate Your Symptoms and Boost Your Fertility by Dr. Marilyn Glenville PhD
Do You Want to Have a Baby? Natural Fertility Solutions and Pregnancy Care by Sarah Abernathy
Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine: The Definitive Home Reference Guide to 550 Key Herbs with all their Uses as Remedies for Common Ailments by Andrew Chevallier

Reference Links:

Cypress Oil

Posted on May 19, 2025 by AyurvedicOils

“Cypress allows the mind to collect itself and takes people out of sorrow and depression; it regulates female hormones and helps with ovarian cysts”, says Light Miller and Bryan Miller in their book Ayurveda and Aromatherapy.

Having its uses inscribed in the Holy Bible, Cypress essential oil has been used by mankind for more than 4,000 years. Though associated with death and underworld, this tree is known for regenerating the inner soul.

Botanically known as Cupressus sempervirens, Cypress trees bear the Eastern Mediterranean region as their native. As the Greek name Sempervirens means ‘ever living’, Cypress trees are found to be ever living with the oldest known as Sarv-e-Abarkooh being found in Iran’s Yazd Province that is estimated to be of approximately 4,000 years old.

Extracted from the needles and twigs of Cupressus Sempervirens, Cypress essential oil has plenty of reasons to be celebrated as one of the ancient bliss of mankind. It is used in Ayurveda for treating various ailments like cardiovascular problems, cellulites, varicose veins, menstrual problems, cold and other respiratory illnesses.

Purchase Cypress Oil – Retail – 4 oz – CLICK HERE

Purchase Cypress Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical uses and importance of Cypress and its essential oil:

Having mentioned in the Bible as a valuable medical aid for strengthening oneself mentally and physically, Cypress essential oil captures a remarkable position in the list of natural medications.

As quoted in the Bible on Isaiah 44: 14, the verse ‘He heweth him down cedars, and taketh the Cypress and the oak, which he strengtheneth for himself among the trees of the forest: he planteth an ash, and the rain doth nourish it‘ is just enough to sing the glorious history of Cypress.

The wood of Cupressus sempervirens were used in the primordial times for building ships, houses and for making furniture. The doors of the ancient church ‘St. Peter’s Basilica’ in Vatican City is made of Cypress woods. Some of the valuable sources state that the ever-living property of this tree led the Egyptians to make coffin out of Cypress woods and the Greeks to make statues of God. Some Biblical scholars even state that the cross of Jesus Christ has been made of Cypress wood.

Indigenous to Cyprus Island, Cypress trees were initially worshipped as an earthly symbol of the Goddess Beruth. This tree signifies immortality and death in ancient art and literature and is often correlated with meditation and reflection.

Hippocrates, the father of medicine prescribed Cypress for treating hemorrhoids. The significant aroma of this tree is said to grant mental clarity and the cones were used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for curing bleeding gums and other oral problems.

Cypress and its essential oil have been used since ancient times mainly to treat various illnesses associated with the circulatory system. It was also used in treating all types of common diseases ranging from cold, cough, skin diseases and hair loss problems to inflammation in the internal and external parts of the body.

The essential oil of Cypress was also used as an effective perfume agent that spreads the sweet memories of a lovely surrounding. It is for this cause, Cypress and its essential oil are always used in religious rituals and in mourning ceremonies where its healing attributes is believed to calm the mind, strengthen it and assist one in recovering quickly from losses.

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Cypress oil:

Cypress essential oil contains various chemical components, the majority of which are a-pinene, delta carene and limonene. The other constituents include sesquiterpene, a-terpinene, sabinene, carvone, 4-terpinol, b-cymene, carveol, cedrol, a-thugene and santene.

Contrary to its depiction as a symbol of mourning, Cypress essential oil has a handful of health benefits with its astringent, antimicrobial, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, firming, anti-seborrheic, anti-dandruff, anti-aging, antioxidant, aromatic, antispasmodic, antiseptic, diuretic, vasoconstricting, mucolytic, fluid retention, decongestant, sedative, hepatic and haemostatic properties.

Ayurvedic Health Benefits of Cypress Oil:

Celebrated as one of the 12 sacred oils of Bible, Cypress is also known as one of the oldest trees on earth. It is also used in Ayurvedic healing in the treatment of numerous health disorders for more than 4,000 years.

Ayurveda is held high as the oldest healing system and is adorably called as the mother of all healing sciences including the Traditional Chinese Medicine, Homeopathy, Siddha, Unani, Acupuncture and Chiropractic.

Ayurveda firmly states that all things on earth are a part of nature and nature is made up of five vital elements namely fire, water, earth, space and air. Perfect health symbolizes perfect balance of the human body with nature and illnesses occur when there is imbalance with nature.

Every individual is unique according to Ayurveda with a distinct individual constitution comprising of three biological energies known as doshas. These doshas are nothing but a representation of the five vital elements.

Vata dosha represents air and space, pitta dosha stands for fire and water and kapha symbolizes water and earth. Just like nature, human body is also made up of five elements where earth is the physical structure of the body, fire is the force supporting body temperature and metabolism, water is the blood and other vital fluids, air is what we breathe and space is the soul that rests within us.

Every person has a predominance of any one of these doshas and it determines the personality, character and behavioral attributes. Balance between these doshas represents health and heartiness and imbalance causes sickness.

Ayurvedic remedies like essential oils, herbs, healthy balanced diet, yoga, prayer, meditation and Ayurvedic routine progresses towards striking balance between these doshas.

Cypress essential oil is said to lessen increased kapha and vata dosha and pacifies pitta dosha.

The Ayurvedic health benefits of Cypress oil are:

1. Alleviates respiratory ailments:

As a natural tonic for smooth respiration, Cypress essential oil is effective in curing various respiratory illnesses like whooping cough, spasmodic coughs, cold, flu, sore throat, emphysema, influenza and bronchitis.

The explicit antimicrobial, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and decongestant properties of this oil greatly attribute in toning up the respiratory system by freeing it from infectious microbes and increase the effectiveness of the lungs simultaneously.

A 2012 study on the chemical composition and antibacterial and antioxidant activities of Cypress essential oil states that it fights actively against infectious microbes like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Halomonas elongate and Salmonella typhimurium and thus it can be readily used as an antimicrobial and antioxidant agent.

2 to 3 drops of Cypress oil added to warm bathing water or in steam inhalation assists in loosening heavy mucus and phlegm deposits in the nasal passages and respiratory tract.

Adding 1 drop of Cypress oil with cold rubs or ointments and massaging it gently on your chest, throat and back followed by steam inhalation helps in treating cough, cold, sore throat and flu by reducing the inflammation and irritation caused due to infection.

2. Enhances the human circulatory system:

Cypress essential oil is an exuberant natural medication that enriches the human circulatory system and helps in its better functioning. It is held high as one of the most commonly used essential oils for the circulatory system.

Cypress essential oil helps in improving circulation by strengthening the blood vessels and capillaries. Good circulation results in the supply of nutrients to the entire body, hormonal balance, a stabilized body temperature and a good immune system.

Few of the complicated diseases like cardiovascular problems and hypertension can be kept away with proper blood circulation.

Massaging your body with 6 drops of Cypress oil blended with 5ml of coconut oil can help in treating a variety of circulation problems like low blood pressure, hemorrhoids, hair loss, varicose veins and hormonal imbalances.

Regular massaging has been proved effective in treating baldness, curing broken capillaries and checking the proper functioning of blood vessels.

3. Controls inflammation:

Inflammation in the muscles, veins, capillaries and blood vessels causes pain and irregular flow of blood to various organs of the body. Being an anti-inflammatory agent Cypress essential oil effectively reduces the inflammation in various parts of the body.

Adding 2 drops of Cypress oil in warm bathing water or in massaging blend can help in the treatment of varicose veins, hemorrhoids, muscular pain and inflammation of the respiratory system.

4. Helps in tightening the human cells:

Aging symptoms force most of the people to lose their beauty and confidence gradually. Cypress essential oil is a wonderful astringent that helps in strengthening and tightening the human cells, the outcome of which is strong gums and teeth, less hair fall, youthful skin and it also aids in retaining perfect structure.

2 drops of Cypress oil blended with mild skin care cream or 1 ml of virgin olive oil and massaged slowly into the skin in circular motion helps in tightening the sluggish, wrinkled and lifeless skin.

This property also assists in contracting blood vessels to prevent loss of blood and promotes blood clotting. Cypress essential oil is also found to be effective in treating nose bleeds and other severe wounds that result in huge blood loss.

5. Helps in getting rid of excess fluid in the body:

Human body comprises of more than 50% of water and appropriate level of fluid in the body determines active functioning of the system. Excess water content might lead to obesity, sluggishness, swelling, rheumatism and respiratory problems.

Being diuretic in nature, Cypress essential oil helps in eliminating the toxic substances such as acid, urea, salts and excess fluid by increasing the frequency and quantity of urine. Less urination results in accumulation of toxins in the body and might lead to increased cholesterol level, malfunctioning of kidneys and rise in blood pressure.

Cypress essential oil is often recommended to treat problems with kidneys and high blood pressure. It is also a sudorific and helps in excreting the toxins from the body in the form of sweat and perspiration by opening up the sweat glands. It was used in folklore medicine for treating rheumatism, cold, swelling in the legs, diarrhea, acne and few other skin problems.

Gently massaging the foot sole or the affected parts of the body with 2 to 3 drops of Cypress oil mixed with 1 ml of sesame oil or adding 2 drops of Cypress oil in warm bathing water can help in discharging excess water deposits, toxic substances and promote urination and sweating.

6. Heals wounds quickly:

Infectious microbes play a major role in making wounds septic. Cypress essential oil is an excellent antiseptic and antibacterial agent that fights against the disease causing micro-organisms and help in quick healing of wounds. It is for this reason that Cypress oil is often used in making antiseptic ointments, creams, lotions and hair care products. Mix 1 drop of Cypress oil with 10 drops of coconut oil and apply it topically for treating external wounds.

7. Aids womanly problems:

Cypress essential oil plays a prominent role in helping woman to get rid problems associated with menstruation and menopause. Add 2 drops of Cypress oil with 1 ml of sesame oil and massage it on your lower abdomen treating menstrual pain, heavy blood flow, irregular periods, mood swings and anxiety.

With its unique healing properties, this natural massage regulates the blood flow in the pelvic area thus relieving blocked menstruation and regularizing hormonal imbalances. The pacifying aroma of Cypress oil also aids in relaxing the mind and calming the soul.

8. Calms the mind and results in inner peace:

Cypress essential oil acts as a sturdy support that makes you stronger both mentally and physically. It relaxes the nervous system and makes you calm during times of anger, anxiety, abandonment and fear. It makes you feel mentally strong and helps to recover from heavy losses.

For these immortal values, Cypress essential oil remains as a symbol of mourning since ancient times. To sense the touch of absolute peace and sacredness, add 2 drops of Cypress oil to your diffuser, vaporizer or burner during any time of the day.

Other health benefits of Cypress Oil:

Few sources state that Cypress oil has hepatic properties that help in proper functioning of the liver by regulating its production of enzymes. It cleanses the liver and frees it from toxins thus helping in the treatment of jaundice, indigestion and other liver problems.

Cypress oil is well known for its aroma and is used in perfume industry to make perfumes, deodorants, room fresheners, soaps and beauty care products. With its antimicrobial properties, it is also used in making powerful insect repellents.

Disclaimer:

This article is for educational purpose only and is not meant for treatment or for replacing any prescribed medication or professional medical advice. Never use essential oils internally and also dilute essential oils before using it topically as pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated substances that can cause harm if used directly on the skin. Consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before choosing the right essential oils for your unique health condition and individual constitution.

Thought for the day:

The poetry of the earth is never dead. – John Keats

Suggested Reading:

HEALING POWERS OF CYPRESS OIL (The Aromatherapy Professional: Healing with Essential Oils) by KG Stiles
The Cypress Tree by Kamin Mohammadi
Essential Oils and Aromatherapy: How to Use Essential Oils for Beauty, Health, and Spirituality by Gregory Lee White
Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit: Restoring Emotional and Mental Balance with Essential Oils by Gabriel Mojay
Aromatherapy for Women: A Practical Guide to Essential Oils for Health and Beauty by Maggie Tisserand

Reference Links:

Melissa Essential Oil

Posted on April 25, 2025 by AyurvedicOils

Melissa………., the name that sounds sweet, smells great and means ‘honeybee’ in Greek is claimed as one of the rarest essential oils just because it requires about 12,000 pounds of Melissa leaves to obtain 1 pound of its essential oil.

Scientifically known as Melissa officinalis, this herb is also known to the world as Lemon balm, Life’s elixir, Cure-all, English balm, Sweet balm, Blue balm and Honey plant and is a member of the mint family Lamiaceae.

This herb is trusted to enhance cognitive performance, treat Alzheimer’s disease, venomous bites and fight against viral attacks like herpes in Ayurveda, the oldest of all healing systems in the world. Melissa essential oil is also used in treating insomnia, depression, nervous headache and known to clear one’s mind for right decision-making.

Purchase Melissa Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical uses and importance of Melissa and its essential oil:

Wow!!! Is all I have to say when I read about a handful of pages about the history of Melissa herb and the way its medicinal importance have travelled all around the universe. From America to Australia, from Arabia to India, Melissa has not left any part of this world unhealed.

Lemon balm has been in use for more than 2000 years and few sources state that its use was recorded in Theophrastus’ Historia Plantarum around 300 B.C. and was used by the ancient Greeks and Romans. French Emperor King Charles V and Holy Roman Emperor Charles V are said to have taken Melissa beverages for augmenting their health.

Pliny The Elder, the renowned Roman naturalist have said that planting Lemon balm near bee hives will attract bees to return to their hives and “causeth the Bees to keep together and causeth others to come unto them” said English herbalist Gerard denoting that rubbing the leaves of Melissa on bee hives will encourage the bees to come back.

An Arabian proverb quotes Lemon balm as “Balm makes the heart merry and joyful” and the Arabian physician Avicenna (11^th century) used Melissa in the treatment of melancholy and depression. Called as the ‘heart’s content’ in southern parts of Europe, Lemon balm tea was the most famous morning tea after it was taken along with honey after breakfast by the Princes of Sydenham and Glamorgan who lived 116 and 108 years respectively.

Paracelsus, the Swiss alchemist and physician called Melissa as “the elixir of life” for he trusted that this magical herb has the power to augment strength and pave way for longevity. Lemon balm was regarded as a sacred herb in the temple of Diana, the ancient Roman Goddess.

Greek physician Dioscorides used Lemon balm for treating toothaches, dog bites, scorpion stings, blocked menstruation, toothache and gout. Popular herbalist Nicholas Culpeper said that Melissa is effective in treating melancholy and boils and is good for the mind, spleen, heart and liver. Melissa has been associated with moon, water and feminine.

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Melissa essential oil: The essential oil of Lemon balm has effective chemical constituents like geraniol, β-caryophyllene, citronellal, geranial, caryophyllene oxide, trans-ocimene, methyl heptenone, linalool, neral, 3-octanone, cis-ocimene, a-humulene, geranyl acetate and certain other components.

Antispasmodic, carminative, emmenagogue, diaphoretic, tonic, nervine, antidepressant, sedative, bactericidal, antiviral, stomachic, cordial, hypotensive, carminative and febrifuge are its therapeutic values.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Melissa essential oil:

Lemon balm essential oil is regarded as one of the most potent remedial essential oils in all of the oils used in Complementary and Alternative medicine system, amongst which Ayurveda is the oldest healing science. Melissa herb and its essential oil has been used in Ayurveda for the treatment of various illnesses associated with various tissues of the body like blood, spleen, nerve, organ tissue and lymphatic muscle.

The book on Ayurveda and Aromatherapy by Bryan Miller and Light Miller talks about certain important health indications where Lemon balm essential oil is used in Ayurveda as a natural remedy for treating menopause, fever, melancholy, depression, infant and child afflictions, cold and flu.

Ayurveda strongly believes that human beings are a significant part of nature. It phenomenally states that every individual is unique and their individual constitution is made up of three vital biological energies known as doshas. They are vata, pitta and kapha. Every human being according to Ayurveda has a predominance of any one of these doshas that determines their physical, mental and spiritual set up.

Balance between these doshas indicates that the person is healthy and imbalance due to environmental factors, food habits, emotional factors and behavioral patterns cause illnesses. Ayurvedic remedies aim at bringing balance between the doshas with its natural healing methodologies.

Ayurveda turns towards nature for treating humanity and using essential oils is one of the most effective remedy that has been a part of this ancient wisdom. Ayurvedic texts claim that essential oils are the prana or life force of plants. Melissa essential oil is said to alleviate pitta and kapha while improving vata dosha.

Let’s take a look at the Ayurvedic health benefits of Melissa essential oil.

1. Treats bacterial, viral and certain other infectious disorders:

Lemon balm essential oil is an excellent natural aid for treating all kinds of infections and health disorders that are associated with the infestation of micro organisms like bacteria and viruses. Numerous scientific evidences have witnessed that the antibacterial effects of this oil is due to the presence of eugenol and its ability to fight against virus is mainly because of tannins present in it.

Bacteria and virus cause cold, flu, fever, infections in the intestine, kidneys, urinary tract and colon, skin problems like acne, rashes, herpes, allergies, severe itching and certain other respiratory infections.

Lemon balm essential oil has febrifuge, sudorific and diaphoretic properties that fights against bacteria, virus and other harmful microbes causing fever. Gently massaging the soles of your feet with 2 drops of Melissa oil with 20 drops of coconut oil will aid in reducing the temperature of your body by promoting sweat through which the destructive toxins are expelled.

Blend 2 to 3 drops of Lemon balm oil with 15 to 20 drops of olive oil and apply topically on pimples, boils, cuts, herpes, cold sores, ringworms, athlete’s foot, wounds, allergies, black heads, rashes and itches for effective remedy. This application also aids in preventing the wounds from getting septic as it combats bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus that are responsible for the wound becoming septic and defenseless.

The University of Maryland Medical Center states that the topical application of ointments containing Lemon balm essential oil aids in healing cold sores caused by HSV (herpes simplex virus). It witnesses this effect by quoting several studies and one among them is the vast study that involved 1 dermatology clinic and 3 German hospitals where Lemon balm was used in treating the primary infection of HSV I. The cream with Lemon balm formula was proved to lessen the healing time of oral as well as genital herpes.

Certain other studies proved the effectiveness of Lemon balm oil when applied to lip sores, herpes lesions and it also exhibited a concentration-dependent activity and improved effect against HIV infection. You can also add 2 drops of Melissa oil to steaming water and steam inhalation aids in treating cold, headache, sinus pain and flu by pushing out excessive fluids and toxic substances in the body through sweat.

2. Calms the digestive system:

Melissa essential oil has carminative and stomachic properties that assist in expelling gases in the stomach and intestines without any pain in the abdominal muscles and by promoting proper flow of bile and other digestive juices.

Applying 2 drops of this oil blended with 15 drops of sesame oil on your stomach and abdomen assists in treating flatulence, colic, dysentery, vomiting, intestinal spasms, dyspepsia, convulsions and also helps in strengthening the digestive system with its tonic and antispasmodic properties. You can also add 3 drops of Lemon balm oil to warm bathing water to stimulate your digestive process.

3. Pacifies your emotional instabilities:

Lemon balm and its essential oil has been held high as a perfect remedy for treating melancholy, mental disturbances, depression, hopelessness, negative emotions and lack of confidence. The uplifting, energizing, refreshing and revitalizing aroma of this oil helps in driving away mental agony, feelings of loneliness, fear, emotional shock, anxiety and anger.

The calming and encouraging touch along with the presence of terpenes in this essential oil is said to grant soothing effects on the mind and drive in understanding, self-confidence, hope and acceptance to proceed with life’s challenges. It helps in balancing your emotions and few popular studies have proved its effects in lessening agitation and have considerable quality-of-life effects.

It is because of these reassuring and comforting properties, Melissa essential oil is lovingly called as the ‘Nectar of life’ or ‘The elixir of life’. Dr. Hill recommends diffusing few drops of Lemon balm oil at night to treat depression, insomnia and restlessness. Add 2 to 3 drops of this oil your diffuser, burner or vaporizer to relieve from worries and treat emotional blocks.

You can also massage your body with 2 drops of Melissa oil, 2 drops of Lavender oil, 1 drop of Ylang Ylang oil and 2 drops of Frankincense oil blended with a small cup of coconut oil to ease tension, stress and fatigue and for relaxing the nerves and muscles.

4. Boosts your brain power:

Lemon balm essential oil is known to enhance brain power and improve the cognitive performance. Certain studies witness that Lemon balm aids in enhancing cognitive function and reduce agitation in people affected by Alzheimer’s disease. Lemon balm has been approved by the German Commission E for treating nervous disorders, insomnia and gastrointestinal problems. Diffusing 2 drops of Lemon balm oil and 1 drop of Rosemary oil during the day or at night can help in treating dementia, cognitive impairments and Alzheimer’s disease.

5. Helps mitigate womanly problems:

With its emmenagogue properties, massaging 2 drops of Melissa oil blended with 15 drops of sesame oil will promote blocked menstruation, relieve menstrual pain, nausea, irritability and mood fluctuations during menstruation. This herb was also used in the traditional medicine to treat depression during menopause, to grant strength during and after childbirth.

Other health benefits:

Melissa essential oil is also used to treat hair loss, baldness, nervous disorders, trauma, inflammation, high blood pressure, insect stings, hyperactive thyroid, phobias and palpitations. It is also used as a culinary herb and as a flavoring agent in various products.

Kurt Schnaubelt in his book Advanced Aromatherapy quotes Melissa oil as “The way in which Melissa oil combines an excellent antiviral component with a soothing but pervasive sedative power is difficult to imagine; it has to be experienced. In its complexity, power, and gentleness, Melissa oil perfectly illustrates how nature time after time works better than one-dimensional synthetic medicines.”

Disclaimer: Never use essential oils internally as pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated substances and always remember to use it in a diluted form. Consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before using the right essential oil for your health condition and unique individual constitution. This article is meant only for informational purpose and is not meant to diagnose or replace any prescribed medications or expert advice.

Thought for the day:

Nature teaches more than she preaches. There are no sermons in stones. It is easier to get a spark out of a stone than a moral. –John Burroughs

Suggested Reading:

Melissa Extract: The Natural Remedy for Herpes by Jan de Vries
Herbal Healing for Women by Rosemary Gladstar
Effects of chronic administration of Melissa officinalis L. extract on anxiety-like reactivity and on circadian and exploratory activities in … Journal of Phytotherapy & Phytopharmacology by Alvin Ibarra, Nicolas Feuillere, Marc Roller, Edith Lesburgere, Daniel Beracochea
Antiviral activity of the volatile oils of Melissa officinalis L. against Herpes simplex virus type-2.: An article from: Phytomedicine: International Journal of Phytotherapy & Phytopharmacology by A. Allahverdiyev, N. Duran, M. Ozguven, S. Koltas

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Reference Links:

Lemon Balm by University of Maryland Medical Center

Melissa officinalis by Boston University School of Medicine

Lemon Balm: An Herb Society of America Guide by Herb Society

Melissa officinalis by Wikipedia