Sugandha Bala Essential Oil

Flowering plants are always appealing and Sugandha Bala, scientifically known as Pavonia Odorata is even more interesting with its natural healing values. It is an offspring of the mallow family, Malvaceae. Known as Sugandha Bala in native Indian sub-tropical areas, the roots and shoots of this plant are extremely aromatic. Ayurveda, the oldest of all healing sciences has recorded the use of Sugandha Bala herb and its essential oil as a natural cooling agent with stomachic properties. The most popular Ayurvedic fever drink known as Shadanga Paniya has a major composition of Sugandha Bala in it. It has been said that this powerful herb is often used in combination with other herbs to treat hemorrhage of the internal organs, inflammation, digestive disorders and fever.

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Therapeutic properties: The antimicrobial properties of this essential oil has made its use inevitable in Ayurveda for treating dysentery, inflammation and certain other intestinal infections. Sugandha Bala essential oil has carminative, antimicrobial, demulcent, cooling, diuretic, antispasmodic, antiprotozoal, astringent and diaphoretic properties. This oil also has strong anthelmintic activity against roundworms and tapeworms.

Traditional home remedies suggest the use of 2 teaspoons of fresh juice of the leaves of this plant along with black pepper for treating dysentery of babies. These leaves also have emollient properties and the fresh juice extracted from the leaves of Sugandha Bala herb was used for soothing and softening the skin.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Sugandha Bala essential oil: Sugandha Bala is an erect glandular-pubescent annual herb that grows up to 1m tall. This herb is indigenous to India (Uttar Pradesh, Orissa and Bihar), which is the birthplace of the ancient healing wisdom known as Ayurveda. The word ‘Ayurveda’ stands for knowledge of life. What makes Ayurveda the mother of all medical sciences is its simplicity and understanding about human beings and their entire constitution, which is nothing but the combination of physical, mental and emotional attributes of an individual. The main aim of Ayurveda is to grant holistic healing that not only stops with treating the illnesses but travels a step ahead in preventing it in the future also.

Ayurvedic system considers human beings as a part of nature and believes that they are made up of the five elements of nature namely fire, water, earth, air and ether. Every individual is considered unique and is believed that every one of us are made up of a specific set of energy elements or doshas. They are vata, pitta and kapha. These doshas are a combination of the five vital elements of nature. It is for this special reason Ayurveda grants specific treatment for each individual even if they have a common illness.

This environmental art trusts on natural remedies like herbs, essential oils extracted from plants, yoga, meditation, physical exercises, and a healthy lifestyle comprising an Ayurvedic routine for a hale and hearty life assuring longevity and healthy aging. Exploring the remedial values of herbs and essential oils highly help in perceiving their ability in treating several health conditions. The major health benefits of Sugandha Bala essential oil are:

Anti-microbial: Sugandha Bala essential oil has strong anti-microbial properties that are effective against harmful bacteria, fungi and certain other microbes. A 1992 research on ‘Antimicrobial Activity of the Essential Oil of Pavonia Odorata Wild’ by Doctor Hari Singh Gour University, India proved the microbes fighting ability of this essential oil. This was substantiated after testing Sugandha Bala essential oil for antifungal and antibacterial activity against thirteen fungi and ten bacteria (4 gram positive bacteria and 6 gram negative bacteria) by means of paper disc agar diffusion technique.

The results of this research highly recommended the use of Sugandha Bala essential oil for inhibiting the growth of all the test fungi and bacteria while this oil was stated ‘excellent against Gram (+ve) bacterium Diplococcus pneumonia and Gram (-ve) bacterium E.coli’. This report disclosed that “The oil was also found to inhibit the growth of keratinophilic fungi Trichophyton mentagreophytes and Chrysosporium indicum along with Aspergillus sp., Botrydiplodia sp. Fusarium solani etc”.

It also depicted the effectiveness of this oil against the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus which is responsible for wound and infections getting septic. This property makes Sugandha Bala essential oil as a promising antiseptic for treating cuts, sores, abrasions and certain other skin problems.

Other pharmacological actions: The intense study on the ‘Pharmacological screening of essential oil of Pavonia Odorata’ revealed that this essential oil contains a series of interesting pharmacological actions based on various parameters. When tested on a choice of living organisms, this oil caused relaxation in the rabbit’s intestine, created fall in blood pressure in anaesthetized dog, lessened the spasmogenic effect of acetylcholine and potassium and produced cardiac inhibition in the isolated heart of a frog.

Applications: With its excellent therapeutic properties, Sugandha Bala essential oil is used as an important ingredient in cosmetics, shampoos, conditioners, pomades, hair tonics, massage oils for rheumatism and much more. You can use this essential oil as a gentle massaging oil after blending it with mild carrier oils like olive oil for treating digestive disorders, pain, inflammation, infections, skin problems and rheumatism. Adding 2 to 3 drops of this oil to your bath tub can also grant you similar health benefits and alleviate pain. Using it in diffusers, air fresheners, burners and vaporizers can protect you from the invasion of harmful micro-organisms.

Disclaimer: This article is only for information purpose and do not use it as a substitute for prescribed medicines or Professional advice. Essential oils are highly concentrated and do not use them directly on your skin (use it after blending with carrier oils). Do not ingest essential oils and consult your Ayurvedic Practitioner before using essential oils for treating your health conditions.

Thought for the day:

God sleeps in the minerals, awakens in plants, walks in animals, and thinks in man.    -Arthur Young

Suggested Reading:

  1. The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Oils in Aromatherapy & Herbalism by Julia Lawless
  2. The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy: Over 600 Natural, Non-Toxic and Fragrant Recipes to Create Health – Beauty – a Safe Home Environment by Valerie Ann Worwood
  3. Major Herbs of Ayurveda, 1e by Elizabeth M. Williamson BSc (Pharm) PhD MRPharmS FLS

Reference Links:

  1. Antimicrobial Activity Of The Essential Oil Of Pavonia Odorata Wild by Seems Nakhare and S.C. Garg
  2. Pharmacological screening of the essential oil of Pavonia Odorata Wild, published in PubMed
  3. Essential Oils as Therapeutics by S.C. Garg

Garlic Oil

Garlic-bannerKick cancer out of the world with nature’s best chemotherapy agent, sweetly known as Garlic. It is fêted as an ‘herb of passion’ for its power of influencing fortitude and natural energy levels and is celebrated as the most hopeful natural remedy for preventing cancer.

Besides being called as the stinking rose with its pungent and not so pleasing aroma, Garlic has a long medicinal  history in various traditions across the world and is also known as ‘cure-all’ for its ability to treat illnesses of the nervous system, circulatory system, digestive system, reproductive system and the respiratory system.

Botanically called as Allium sativa, Garlic has its origin in India and its essential oil is extracted from the bulbs through steam distillation method. Known by the name Rasona, Lahsoon and Yavanesta in Sanskrit, Garlic and its essential oil are used in Ayurveda for the treatment of cancer, heart diseases, diabetes, cold, rheumatism, high blood pressure, parasites, impotency, skin disorders, digestive problems, mental disturbances, fluid retention and joint problems.

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Historical uses and importance of Garlic:

Garlic is perceptibly a spectacular herb/vegetable with the human use of more than 7,000 years and is a member of the onion family, Allium. Indigenous to the central parts of Asia, Garlic is by far the most promising herbal remedy with the longest historical use. Its uses have been mentioned in various herbal guides by celebrated herbalists and physicians like Dioscorides, Galen, Hippocrates and Pliny the Elder, especially for treating digestive disorders, respiratory problems, wounds and low immune power.

The ancient Hindu mythology states that Garlic is a sacred herb grown from the drop of nectar (Amirtham – Elixir of life) spilled on earth when Lord Garuda took away the pot of nectar from Lord Indra to save his mother from evil powers. It is still believed that because of the divine qualities of the nectar, Garlic has innumerable healing properties and was named as Rason, meaning King of Rasas (It is also said that Garlic has 5 out of 6 prominent tastes in Ayurveda).

Another interesting historical reference is that Garlic was grown in the hanging gardens of Babylon and it was considered as an herb of empowerment for which it was given to Roman soldiers before the battle. The traditional European fishermen used to wear garlands made with Garlic cloves to guard themselves from sickness and evil spirits.

Garlic was the most primitive herb used as a ‘performance uplifting’ agent and was given to the Olympic athletes in primordial Greece. It is also said that Garlic was used during the construction of the Giza pyramids before 5,800 years. It was also used in Nepal, Middle East and eastern parts of Asia for treating tuberculosis, bronchitis, rheumatism, fever, flatulence, colic, liver problems, intestinal worms, hypertension and digestive problems.

It is a part of most of the delicious cuisines all over the world as a spice, condiment or seasoning for its strong aroma and the flavor it adds to any dish especially the non-vegetarian food varieties. Garlic bread, garlic chicken, crostini, garlic toast and many other Asian and Mediterranean cuisines are crowned with the rich flavor of this wonder herb.

Therapeutic properties and chemical constituents of Garlic essential oil:

Garlic oil is known for its carminative, antibacterial, aphrodisiac, antioxidant, immune-booster, anticancer, antibiotic, expectorant, antispasmodic, disinfectant, anti-carcinogenic, antithrombotic, stimulant, anti-arthritic, antiviral, rejuvenative, anti-hyperlipidaemic and alterative properties.

The major chemical components that contribute to the healing values of Garlic oil are selenium, allicin, alliin, phytoncide, S-allylcysteine thiacremonone, ajoene and diallyl polysulphides.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Garlic essential oil:

Disease, aging and death are the three major causes of concern for mankind and have been attracting the attention of medical researchers, philosophers and heath care experts from all over the world since ages.

Ayurveda, the holistic healing methodology aging about 5,000 years aims at attaining longevity through healthy aging and prevention of illnesses. This ancient remedial science strongly states that absolute health is a medley of physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

This Vedic system strongly considers human body as a temple and relates the divine power with the soul that rests within. According to this philosophy all things on earth are a part of nature and are made up of the five vital elements of nature, namely earth, water, air, fire and ether.

Every person is a unique creation with a unique individual constitution that embraces three vital biological energies called as doshas. These energies are just a meaningful representation of the elements of nature.

Kapha dosha symbolizes earth and water and is in charge of the physical structure and sustenance of the body, the imbalance of which leads to obesity and respiratory problems. Vata dosha is a combination of air and ether and is responsible for circulation, movement and respiration and vata vitiation causes neurological disorders, nervous problems, breathing difficulties and menstrual difficulties.

Fire and water combine together and represent Pitta dosha, which is responsible for body temperature, digestion and other metabolic functions. Lack or excess of pitta dosha might end up in fever, indigestion, constipation, heartburn, ulcer and other digestive disorders. Balance between these three doshas contributes to healthiness and imbalance of any one or all the three doshas cause illness.

Ayurvedic remedies aim at treating the doshic imbalances with the help of herbs, plant essential oils, yoga, meditation, Ayurvedic routine, prayers and simple physical exercises. These remedies vary from individual to individual based upon their unique individual constitution and state of health.

Garlic is one among the ancient Ayurvedic remedies for treating various health conditions and have been a vital part of numerous Ayurvedic preparations. The book on ‘Ayurveda and Aromatherapy’ by Bryan Miller and Light Miller quotes Garlic as a highly rejuvenative oil, especially for the nerve tissue. Garlic oil is good for increasing pitta dosha and lessening excess of vata and kapha energies.

The Ayurvedic health benefits of Garlic oil are:

Garlic-broucher1. Excellent aid to digestive disorders:

From Stone Age to this contemporary era, Garlic is a promising home remedy for assisting problems associated with digestion. 2 to 3 cloves of Garlic boiled in a cup of water can be a sure shot remedy for treating indigestion, sluggishness, diarrhea, nausea and gastric troubles. It is regarded as a great natural medicine for supporting digestion by stimulating the appetite and enhancing the process of metabolism.

Imbalance or vitiation of pitta dosha is the major reason for digestive disorders. Garlic has the ability to increase pitta energy and regularizes Agni or the digestive fire and other metabolic functions.

Adding 1 drop of Garlic oil to your handkerchief or tissue and inhaling this strong aroma or mixing 2 drops of this oil with 1 ml of coconut oil can help in fighting against intestinal parasites, inflammation in the stomach and intestines, treat colitis, infectious diseases, stomach upset, dysentery and food poisoning.

This oil works effectively against food poisoning by combating harmful bacteria like Salmonella enteritidis and E.coli, which are responsible for food poisoning and other stomach infections. It acts by penetrating through the skin cells and entering the blood stream, where it passes on its remedial properties to the system.

2. Fights against cancerous cells:

Garlic oil has anti-oxidant, anti-carcinogenic, antithrombotic and anti-cancer properties, which help in preventing the growth of new cancerous cells in the body and curtailing the growth of existing cancer cells in the body. Numerous researches and studies have proved the potent of Garlic and its extracts in treating various types of cancer ranging from brain cancer to prostate cancer.

Garlic is first on the list of potential cancer-preventative foods by the American National Cancer Institute and the American Journal of Nutrition issued on October 2000 had published numerous epidemiologic studies stating that the people who used Garlic and its extracts regularly had only a lesser amount (1/3rd) of risk of colorectal cancer and not as much of risk of stomach cancer when compared to people who took little or no Garlic or its extracts.

The presence of numerous (30+) powerful anti-cancer and antioxidant compounds in Garlic oil including ajoene, diallyl sulphide, quercetin and alliin have the power to wedge cancer creating agents like aflatoxin and nitrosamine associated with liver, lung and stomach cancer. These components work like a natural chemotherapy agent and have been proved in various studies for impeding the growth of malignant cancer cells.

A 2008 study on the ‘Anticancer effects of diallyl trisulphide derived from Garlic’ suggest “diallyl trisulfide is responsible, at least in part, for the epidemiologically proven anticancer effect for garlic eaters.” It is also said that the diallyl sulphide in Garlic is known to curb the conversion of PhIP, which is a kind heterocyclic amine that has been related with the increased cause of breast cancer in women.

A report on Garlic and Cancer prevention published in the National Cancer Institute website states five strong reasons for using Garlic to prevent cancer. They are “Protective effects from garlic may arise from its antibacterial properties or from its ability to block the formation of cancer-causing substances, halt the activation of cancer-causing substances, enhance DNA repair, reduce cell proliferation, or induce cell death.”

The best ways to use Garlic for cancer prevention is to add 2 to 3 cloves of raw or cooked Garlic in your diet along with a soothing massage with 2 drops of Garlic oil blended with 1 ml of virgin olive oil for promising results.

3. Controls hypertension and protects the heart:

Garlic is a rich source of allicin and it controls the function of angiotensin II, which is a protein that aids the contracting of blood vessels thus increasing the blood pressure gradually. Along with this, the red blood cells in our body convert the polysulphides in Garlic into hydrogen sulphide, which expands the blood vessels and assists in controlling high blood pressure.

Garlic oil acts as a protective shield for the heart by protecting it from hypertension, atherosclerosis, heart attacks and certain other cardiovascular problems. The sulfur-based compounds present in Garlic controls the blood vessels from being blocked and support the functioning of arteries that gradually lose its potent with age. This oil also guards the heart from the harmful damage of free radicals with its antioxidant properties.

By this way, regular use of Garlic oil and Garlic cloves help in slowing down atherosclerosis (thickening of the arteries). This oil reduces platelet aggregation and relaxes the walls of the blood vessels by stimulating the production of nitric oxide.

It is also a potent anti-clotting agent with the presence of ajoene that curbs the formation of blood clots in the blood vessels. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry says, “Garlic oil possesses significant potential for protecting hearts from diabetes-induced cardiomyopathy.

Inhaling the aroma of Garlic oil with 1 drop of this oil added to tissue or massaging your chest with 2 drops of Garlic oil blended with 1 ml of olive oil can assist in treating atherosclerosis, blocks in the blood vessels, heart attacks, high blood pressure and other cardiovascular disorders along with the strengthening of cardiac muscles.

4. Keeps respiratory infections at bay:

Cold, flu, cough and other respiratory infections are mainly due to the excess of kapha dosha. Garlic oil has the natural warmth in its essence and it lessens the excess of kapha energy. This oil also has antibiotic, expectorant, decongestant, antiviral and antibacterial properties that work together to curtail the growth of harmful micro-organisms that worsen respiratory infections.

Add 2 drops of Garlic oil in steam inhalation and inhaling this healing aroma and massaging your chest with 1 drop of Garlic oil mixed with vaporub or ointments can be of great aid in treating and preventing common cold, whooping cough, asthma, chronic bronchitis and breathing difficulties.

5. Reduces cholesterol and checks obesity:

LDL (bad cholesterol) and lower serum triglycerides are the worst enemies of the human body. Garlic oil aids in maintaining HDL or the good healthy cholesterol and decreasing the level of bad cholesterol thus it lessens total cholesterol levels in the body, blood triglycerides and decreases the formation of arterial plaque.

Along with this, Garlic oil also assists in controlling the formation of fat cells and helps in eliminating the excess deposits of water, salts, fat and other toxic substances contributing to obesity. It prevents weight gain with its anti-inflammatory property mainly due to the presence of 1, 2-DT (1, 2-vinyldithiin) in Garlic.

Massaging your body with 5 drops of Garlic oil mixed with 3 ml of sesame oil aids in dissolving fat cells and discharging excess water and toxic deposits from the body by promoting frequent urination and sweating. This massaging can also be useful in reducing inflammation in case of arthritis and rheumatism.

6. Strengthens your immune system:

Garlic oil is an effective immune booster with the presence of various nutrients like vitamin C, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 and B9 along with magnesium, iron, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, sodium, protein, potassium and carbohydrates, all of which make Garlic a potent powerhouse. The antioxidant property of this oil fights against aging symptoms and protects the body from the hazardous effects of free radicals.

As a powerful antiviral, antifungal, antibiotic and antibacterial oil, Garlic has a positive effect on the immune system by acting as a police force that fights against destructive microbes and infectious diseases spread by them. Inhaling the spicy aroma of Garlic oil by adding 1 drop of this oil to your diffuser can help in activating the white blood cells and the immune system, through which it increases the body’s resisting capacity against various diseases.

7. Stimulates your system:

Ayurveda classifies food into three major categories namely rajasic (fiery), sattvic (fresh and pure) and tamasic (flawed).  Amadea Morningstar says “Energetically, rajasic foods stimulate more fire, aggression, passion. They are good foods for stirring up trouble or spurring on the dragons within.”

Garlic is a rajasic food that awakens, influences and stimulates the inner power and passion. It is said to bring consciousness and awareness in the body. It is for this property, Garlic and its essential oil is said to treat sexual disorders like impotency and other reproductive problems. Add 1 drop of Garlic oil in vaporizer or aromatic candles and inhale the aroma for enhancing the natural levels of energy in the body and to rekindle your spirit.

Other health benefits:

Garlic oil is also an excellent remedy for treating pimples, blackheads, acne, athlete’s foot and wrinkles. It is also said to prevent scurvy, due to its high content of Vitamin C and beriberi with its power to enhance thiamin absorbing capacity in the body and reduce the level of blood sugar in diabetes mellitus patients.

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. Never take essential oils internally and always remember using essential oils topically in a diluted form only, as pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated substances and may cause harmful effects if used directly on the skin. Seek advice from an Ayurvedic professional before selecting the right essential oil for your state of health and unique individual constitution.

Thought for the day:

Let the gentle bush dig its root deep and spread upward to split the boulder.
-Carl Sandburg

Suggested Reading:

  1. Garlic, Garlic, Garlic: More than 200 Exceptional Recipes for the World’s Most Indispensable Ingredient by Linda Griffith, Fred Griffith
  2. Garlic: Nature’s Original Remedy by Stephen Fulder, John Blackwood
  3. Garlic: The Mighty Bulb by Natasha Edwards
  4. The Complete Book of Garlic: A Guide for Gardeners, Growers, and Serious Cooks by Ted Jordan Meredith
  5. Garlic and Other Alliums: The Lore and The Science by Eric Block

Reference Links:

  1. Garlic by Wikipedia
  2. Garlic and Cancer Prevention by National Cancer Institute
  3. What are the benefits of Garlic? by Medical News Today
  4. All About Garlic by MAS Ayurveda
  5. Anticancer effects of diallyl trisulfide derived from garlic by Seki T, Hosono T, Hosono-Fukao T, Inada K, Tanaka R, Ogihara J, Ariga T, Department of Applied Life Sciences, Nihon University Graduate School of Bioresource Sciences, Fujisawa, Japan published in PubMed

Cypress Oil

“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.

Cypress-bannerHaving 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:

Cypress broucher1. 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:

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

Reference Links:

  1. Cupressus Sempervirens by Wikipedia
  2. Chemical composition of Cupressus sempervirens published in PubMed.
  3. Study on the Chemical Composition, Antibacterial and Antioxidant Activities of Cupressus sempervirens published in the Journal of Agricultural Science.
  4. 120 Uses of the twelve oils of ancient scripture by Sharing Great Health Inc.