Cupressus sempervirens – cut cone

Coming from the Mediterranean conifer Cupressus sempervirens , the cones are harvested when ripe and then cut to allow for a better release of their components during domestic use. They are also prized in the artisanal production of plant incense or scented sachets for the wardrobe.

Description

Brown, hard, woody fragments with a resinous odor typical of conifers. Scent reminiscent of the Mediterranean dry forest, sometimes peppery.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Evergreen cypress, Mediterranean cypress
• Latin name: Cupressus sempervirens
• Family: Cupressaceae
• Part used: Cone
• Shape: Coupe
• Origin: Mediterranean Basin
• English name: Cypress cone (cut)
• Name in German: Zypresse Zapfen (geschnitten)
• Name in Spanish: Cypress Cone
• Name in Italian: Cono di cipresso
• Name in Arabic: مخروط السرو (Mukhruṭ al-sarw)

Main virtues

The cones are traditionally used to purify the air, clear the airways in steam baths, or in invigorating external applications. They are also part of certain ancestral recipes for purifying decoctions for external use.

Main constituents

Volatile aromatic compounds (alpha-pinene, cedrol), resins, tannins, flavonoids, phenolic acids.

Use and dosage

• Decoction: 1 tablespoon per 250 ml of water, boil for 10 to 15 minutes. Recommended for external use.
• Steam bath: throw into boiling water, inhale the vapors from a reasonable distance (ideal when mixed with eucalyptus or rosemary).
• Scented sachet: add to cupboards for a sanitizing effect and to repel insects.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Mainly recommended for external use.
• May be irritating in concentrated form: always test before prolonged use.
• Not recommended for pregnant women and young children without professional advice.

History and origin

A symbol of eternity in Greek and Roman cultures, the cypress tree was planted in places of contemplation or at village entrances. Its wood and cones were used in purification rituals. Its use has been passed down in Mediterranean folk traditions as a protector of the air and surrounding energies.

Miscellaneous information

• Packaging: kraft bag or glass jar.
• Storage: away from light and humidity.
• Appearance: dark brown woody pieces.
• Odor: woody, resinous, dry.

Sources and references

• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• Traditional Mediterranean flora
• Ethnobotany of conifers – regional archives
• Aromatic botanical directory of the South of France

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