How to use litsea cubeba essential oil?

Litsea Cubeba Essential Oil, known as May Chang Oil, has been used in ancient Chinese medicine for centuries. Litsea Cubeba / May Chang is a member of the Lauraceae family, native to regions of Southeast Asia and grows as a tree or shrub.  Although grown extensively in Japan and Taiwan, China is the largest producer and exporter.  The tree bears petite white and yellow flowers, which bloom from March to April each growing season. 

The fruit, flower and leaves are processed for essential oil, and the timber can be used for furniture or construction. Most essential oil used in aromatherapy is usually coming from the fruit of the plant. Litsea Cubeba / May Chang essential oil is widely used in the perfume and cosmetic industries and due to its lemony aroma, it is often used an an alternative citrus ingredient and can be a base note for more complex citrus fragrances.  The citrus refreshing scent is uplifting, making it a good option for cleaning products.  

How to use litsea cubeba essential oil?

1. Natural facial care recipe

- Add 1 drop of Litsea cubeba oil to a squirt or two of any plain gel or cream facial cleanser and work into the skin. Litsea cubeba oil will help maintain a healthy microbiome on the skin and is a good pore cleansing oil.

- You can also add a few drops of Litsea cubeba oil to your facial steam water for detox and cleansing effects.  Essential oils are easily carried upward into the steam because they are volatile oils.  For a facial steam tutorial you can find one on our Youtube channel.

2.ntibacterial Household Cleaner

Litsea cubeba essential oil can be added to natural household cleaning products or used to disinfect surfaces as it contains powerful citric elements that have an antibacterial effect. These compounds account for over 70 percent of the essential oil’s phytonutrient content, of which the predominant ones are neral and geranial. According to research studies, the essential oil has exhibited antimicrobial properties against E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and A. niger – all of which are a serious cause of a variety of common community infections.

3.Anti-inflammatory

May chang oil can be diluted with a carrier oil to reduce joint pain and muscle aches as studies have shown that the essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties. The essential oil is traditionally used to ease the symptoms of gastrointestinal problems, edema, and rheumatic arthritis.

4. Natural bodycare recipe

- Put 6 to 12 drops of the essential oil per ounce of a plain base oil like grapeseed oil or apricot kernal oil and turn it into a fragrant, deodorizing, and luxurious natural bodycare treat without chemicals or harsh ingredients.  This is particularly lovely for after bathing in the wintertime to seal valuable moisture into skin.

5. Emotional Wellbeing

Just like it is cleansing for the body, Litsea Cubeba is also cleansing for the soul. Scientific studies have proven that Litsea Cubeba can help control arrhythmia (which is a common sign of stress and anxiety) and induce relaxation. Its alluring scent soothes the nervous system and helps us express our emotions in a more constructive manner.

Litsea Cubeba is the perfect antidote for seasonal blues, stress, anger and irritability. It helps get rid of negative emotions and promotes relaxation, mental clarity and restful sleep. Use it in a diffuser, bath or massage oil to liven up your day

6. Cures problems with digestion

With the strong citrus aroma and warming stomachic properties, Litsea essential oil increases pitta energy, which governs the process of digestion, thinking and body temperature. This herb and its essential oil augment the digestive fire and enhance the appetite, treat indigestion and flatulence.

It prevents the formation of gas in the stomach and intestines. To support the process of digestion, blend 3 drops of Litsea cubeba oil with 15 drops of sesame oil and massage your abdomen or add 2 drops of this oil to warm bathing water.