 Litsea Cubeba is a small evergreen tropical tree, with fragrant lemony scented leaves and flowers, and small pepper shaped fruit. The roots and stems have been used for centuries by the Chinese to treat indigestion, lower back pains, chills, headaches and travel sickness. Modern research has shown that it may be useful in treating cardiac arrhythmia. Litsea Cubeba Essential Oil comes from China, and is steamed distilled from the fruit. Litsea Cubeba Essential Oil is obtained from the small pepper-like fruits of the tree, this is a refreshing, uplifting and stimulating essential oil with antiseptic, carminative and healing properties.
Adulteration
As the oil is very similar in citral levels to lemongrass, substitution by the latter is unlikely. Litsea citrata planted as a wind-breaker in Chinese teagroves may also be used but it has a lower citral level. Litsea is a cheap oil, therefore, citral is uneconomical as an adulterant.
Properties, Indications and Uses
May Chang is most valued for its anti- inflammatory and calming properties. Other therapeutic actions are: astringent, antiseptic, insecticide, hypotensive, stimulant and tonic.
Circulatory system: Research in China has focused upon the oil's ability to regulate cardiac arrythmias.(7)
Nervous system: This oil is helpful in treatment of fatigue, lethargy, insomnia, anxiety and depression.(7)
Respiratory System: Litsea cubeba functions as a bronchial dilator and is therefore helpful for relief of symptoms associated with bronchitis and asthma.(7)
Skin Care: This oil is helpful for general skin cleansing due to its antiseptic properties. It is also beneficial to the aromatherapy treatment of oily, acne infected skin areas.(7)
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