Description
The Mediterranean cypress is the tall, narrow tree that lines roads and cemeteries in Tuscany, Provence and Spain. It grows slowly to 20 to 30 metres, with tiny scale-like leaves pressed flat against the twigs. Cypress oil comes mostly from trimmings: workers in southern France, Spain and Morocco clip the leafy twigs when hedges, windbreaks and ornamental rows are pruned, and take them fresh to nearby stills. The oil is clear to pale yellow with a fresh, green, resinous scent that dries down smoky and sweet. It is rich in alpha-pinene and delta-3-carene.
Details
| Botanical name | Cupressus sempervirens (Mediterranean cypress) |
|---|---|
| Origin | Mediterranean |
| Part used | Needles and twigs |
| Extraction | Steam-distilled |
| Aroma | Fresh, green, woody |
| Ingredients | 100% Cupressus sempervirens oil |
Why supply is limited: cypress grows slowly and yields only a small amount of oil from its foliage, and production relies on trimmings from established trees.
How to use
- Diffuser: add 3 to 4 drops to water in your diffuser.
- Massage oil: add 3 drops to a tablespoon (15ml) of carrier oil.
- Perfume: use for fresh, woody notes in men’s fragrances.
Essential oils are concentrated. Always dilute before use on skin, patch test first, keep away from eyes and out of reach of children, and do not take internally. If you are pregnant or nursing, check with your doctor before use.
FAQs
What does cypress smell like?
Fresh, green and resinous, drying down woody and slightly smoky.
What blends well with it?
Juniper, cedarwood, lavender and citrus oils.
Where does it come from?
From trimmings of cypress trees in southern France, Spain and Morocco.
Lucy Lane –
love the scent