Cypress is the name applied to many plants in the cypress family Curessaceae, which is a conifer of northern temperate regions. Most cypress species are trees, while a few are shrubs. It is famous for its longevity, and has been a popular garden plant for thousands of years.
Cypress trees grow mainly along North America's southern coastlines where they have easy access to swampy, wet soil and full sunlight. However, some types prosper along the eastern portion of the United States, ranging from Delaware to Florida. Other Cypress types are thriving in warmer climates, such as Texas and Nevada. These dry states provide the tree with rich, clay-like soil and mud that contains numerous nutrients.
A large tree, the bald cypress reaches up to 150 feet tall and grows wide at the base and narrow toward the top. The smaller pond cypress tree has thick, shaggy bark that helps distinguish it from the bald cypress. Another type of cypress tree, Leyland cypress, grows extensively in the Southeast, according to Clemson University, getting from 60 to 70 feet tall, sometimes reaching up 100 feet.
The Cypress tree has a fascinating history that dates back to the ancient Egyptians who used the durable trees to build mummy cases. The Greeks were also fans of the tree and used its wood to create urns to store the ashes of those who died in battle.
The aromatic and resinous leaves of the cypress tree produce an essential oil that is used in aromatherapy. Cypress oil is slightly astringent making it an excellent choice to hydrate and condition only skin. Cypress oil has a skin-tightening, pore-reducing effect and is often used in facial and skin care formulations. Cypress also helps to alleviate poor circulation problems and relieve excess fluid retention.
The Cypress tree's popularity is also deeply rooted in the American south where a major travel attraction bears its name: Cypress Gardens. Located in Berkeley County, South Carolina, this botanical garden has been a top-rated family destination since 1931. The property is home to hundreds of Cypress trees which frame other features of the park, including the butterfly house, fresh water aquarium and rose gardens. Meanwhile, Winter Haven, Florida, used to be home to another Cypress Gardens, which closed in 2009. The historic gardens will forever be remembered for the dozens of majestic Cypress trees that lined Lake Eloise and the sprawling flower beds that burst with color.
Cypress Oil is an essential oil known for its therapeutic and medicinal values. It is very useful in treating and healing various ailments and conditions in a much safer manner as compared to conventional treatments. It is often used in aromatherapy and can also be found in certain medications. Cypress Oil is extracted from the Mediterranean Cypress tree through a process of distillation of the cypress leaves, cones and twigs.
Benefits & Uses: It is beneficial in conditions of excess fluid such as bleeding, nosebleeds, heavy menstruation, heavy perspiration, cough and bronchitis, hemorrhages and fluid retention.
It helps to regulate the menstrual cycle, helps to ease arthritis and rheumatic pain. Cypress essential oil can also be used in soap making ingredients, lotions, massage oils, diffusers, potpourri, scent, air fresheners, body fragrance, perfume oils, aromatherapy products, bath oils, towel scenting, spa's, incense, light rings, laundry, facial steams, hair treatments and more.
Cypress trees are also valued for their firewood and oil. The wood is easy to split, dries quickly and burns clean, so don't have to worry about excessive tar and soot residue.
Cypress oil ensures proper liver function by maintaining adequate bile secretion and protecting the liver against any kind of infection.
Another impressive ability is that it is able to control excessive bleeding. This is very helpful in restricting excessive menstrual flow. It also helps blood clotting and improves blood circulation. This makes it an effective treatment for conditions like varicose veins.