AUSTRALIAN BLUE CYPRESS, THE ABORIGINAL SKIN CARE SECRET

aboriginal health

Blue cypress (Callitris intratropica) is in the cypress family of essential oils. It is a slow-growing native Australian cypress tree, exclusive to tropical Australia. We get this oil through steam distillation of the leaves and wood of the tree. Once a blue cypress tree has been harvested it does not re-grow.

This compact tree with blue-green foliage grows in the Northern Territory, Western Australia and Queensland, where it is widespread in coastal and inland areas in zones of higher rainfall. At maturity, the tree reaches heights of 80 feet, its branches spreading to 30 feet at the base. The male cones grow in clusters of three, about 1cm long. The rounded female cones grow to 1.5cm across. Traditionally the Australian Aborigines knew of the amazing skin moisturizing properties of Blue Cypress for thousands of years; they used it to protect their skin from the harsh desert climate. In aromatherapy circles, the oil is sometimes referred to as the “ABC” essential oil – “Australian Blue Cypress”.

How Can Australian Blue Cypress Essential Oil Help Us Today?

Today Australian blue cypress is well known for its skincare properties – specifically moisturizing and soothing properties. Amongst aromatherapists and manufacturers, this oil is considered very similar to Blue Chamomile. Blue cypress may be inhaled directly, diffused or rubbed on the body. Want to learn more about the healing properties of Australian Blue Cypress and other essential oils? Educational courses in healing energy and aromatherapy can help you understand how essential oils heal the body/mind/spirit.