Summary
Scientific name: Cupressus sempervirens.
Other names: German: Zypresse. French: Cyprès. Spanish: Ciprés. Chinese: Pien-po.
Action: Vaso-constrictor, vein-tonic, antiseptic, aromatic, antispasmodic, sedative, diuretic.
Part Used
The parts of the plant used medicinally are the leaves and cones. Essential oil – external use only.
Medicinal Uses
Cypress can be used traditionally for varicose veins, oedema, piles, menopausal cramps, leg-cramp, intermittent claudication, incontinence and frequency of urine.
It is used externally for head colds, coughs and bronchitis. A decoction of the cones and leaves of Cupressus sempervirens was used in a sitz bath three times a day for one week for haemorrhoids. The cones and leaves were used internally as an astringent. Externally, the extract of the cypress was incorporated in preparations (ointments and suppositories) and used to treat haemorrhoids, varicose veins and venous circulation disorders. The essential oil was used as antiseptic and an antispasmodic for stubborn coughs.
Cypress was also described as deodorant, and diuretic, to promote venous circulation to the kidneys and bladder area, and to improve bladder tone and as a co-adjuvant in therapy of urinary incontinence and enuresis.
Preparation & Dosage
Tincture: 1 part cone shavings to 5 parts 60 per cent alcohol; macerate 14 days, strain. Dose: 5-30 drops in water thrice daily before meals.
External: Tincture [Fresh Herb, 1:2] straight, or diluted with two parts water.
Internal: Standard Infusion [lightly roasted twigs], 2-4 ounces.
Aromatherapy: 10 drops in 2 teaspoons Almond oil for massage lower abdomen or limbs according to condition.
Medical importance of Cupressus sempervirens – A review
Medical importance of Cupressus sempervirens – A reviewReference(s)
Principles and Practice of Constitutional Physiology for Herbalists by Michael Moore
Bartram’s Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine by Thomas Bartram
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