Cypress branches – traditional use

Harvested from mature branches of the Mediterranean cypress, the twigs are dried and then roughly chopped for easier use. They are prized as bath decoctions, as light fumigations, or in scented sachets for enclosed spaces. Their fragrance is reminiscent of the dry, sunny forests of the South.

Description

Pieces of green to gray-brown twigs, fibrous texture, intense woody balsamic aroma with a slight camphor note. Very aromatic when hot.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Cypress, Evergreen Cypress
• Latin name: Cupressus sempervirens
• Family: Cupressaceae
• Part used: Branches
• Shape: Cut
• Origin: Mediterranean Basin
• English name: Cypress branches (cut)
• Name in German: Zypressenzweige geschnitten
• Name in Spanish: Ramas de ciprés
• Name in Italian: Rami di cipresso
• Name in Arabic: أغصان السرو (Aghṣān al-sarw)

Main virtues

For external use, cypress branches are renowned for their purifying, invigorating, and refreshing properties. They are used in steam baths and natural lotions, or are simply placed in sachets in resting areas for their balancing and cleansing effect.

Main constituents

Alpha-pinene, cedrol, limonene, borneol, tannins, flavonoids, aromatic resins.

Use and dosage

• Decoction: Boil 1 to 2 tablespoons in 250 ml of water for 10 to 15 minutes. Use in baths, as a vaporizer, or as a compress.
• Steam bath: throw into a basin of boiling water and inhale from a distance for a decongestant effect.
• Room fragrance sachet: place dry fragments in a small fabric sachet to slip into cupboards or under the pillow.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Recommended for external use only.
• May be slightly irritating to very sensitive skin.
• Not recommended for prolonged use during pregnancy or in young children.

History and origin

Since ancient times, cypress has been associated with rituals of purification and meditation. The branches were burned in temples to ward off negative influences, and their penetrating fragrance was used to enhance concentration or accompany body care. This tradition has continued in the southern regions through family care and purification rituals.

Miscellaneous information

• Packaging: kraft bag or recycled cardboard box.
• Storage: away from humidity, heat and light.
• Appearance: woody and fibrous fragments, green to brown.
• Smell: woody, fresh, resinous.

Sources and references

• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• Mediterranean phytotherapeutic traditions
• Ethnobotany of Southern Conifers
• Sensory directory of aromatic plants

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