Contents
CYPRESS HAZARDS
Is cypress toxic?
No, cypress (Cupressus sempervirens ) is considered safe when used at recommended doses. No significant side effects or toxic effects are described at therapeutic doses.
The essential oil of this plant contains toxic substances, so it should not be used in high doses. Cypress essential oil is toxic if the dose is exceeded.
For medicinal use, usually cypress ball-shaped fruits are used, and to a lesser extent, the tree branches.
* More information on contraindications of cypress in the listing below.
What components cypress has?
- Essential oil (0.4%): alpha and beta pinene, camphene, terpineol and triterpene alcohols such as cedrol. Cedrol contained in the essential oil, which is also known as camphor, has antiseptic and antispasmodic effect.
- Tannins (35%): catechin, catechol.
- Flavonoids: amentoflavone, cupresflavone (mainly in the leaves), leucoanthocyanidins.
Dangers of cypress
Cypress essential oil is neurotoxic and oxytocic. Because oxytocin stimulates uterine musculature, the plant is totally contraindicated in pregnant women.
*Related information:
More information on cypress.
This article was endorsed by Elisenda Carballido - Dietitian nutritionist. Postgraduate in Phytotherapy and master in Nutrition and Metabolism.
