Hinoki Oil: Examining the Healing Tradition and Scientific Inquiry
Welcome back! In this series, Seeds of Life Elixirs presents the incredible benefits of the graceful evergreen conifer Hinoki Cypress (Chamaecyparis obtuse) tree. Known for its high-quality, lemon scented wood and attractive foliage.
The Healing and Soothing Benefits of Hinoki Oil
The botanical world is filled with plants that are both amazingly beautiful as well as medicinal. Among them stands Hinoki, a genus of striking trees or shurbs that have captivated cultures and health practitioners for centuries. It is a versatile plant that comes in many sizes, from dwarf shrubs to large trees, and is used for timber, miniature gardening, as well as ornamental landscaping. The vibrant green foliage, has small cones, drooping branch tips and an attractive red-brownish peeling bark. The Hinoki Cypress is far more than just visually appealing additions to the landscape. Researching the phytochemistry and traditional uses of Hinoki reveals a fascinating story that intertwines botany, folklore, and medicine.
The genus Hinoki Cypress belongs to the Cupressaceae family, a diverse group of conifers. It is Native to central Japan in East Asia and Taiwan, dating back to ancient times. The trees themselves can live for centuries, with recorded specimens reaching nearly 1,000 years old. Hinoki Cypress tree is considered a “Holy Tree” in Japan, and its timber is considered sacred and represents a symbol of purity, traditionally reserved for religious structures like temples and shrines. Several species of the Hinoki Cypress tree have proven their ability to effect positive changes in our bodies, most notably for its soothing benefits to our mood and mental state. Each species possesses a unique profile of bioactive components which contribute to their diverse uses.
Chemically, the Hinoki Cypress is a source of an abundance of interesting compounds. The durability and aromatic properties of the wood are due to the compounds of hinokiiol, alpha-pinene, and bornyl acetate, which all contain a natural antibacterial and antifungal property. Furthermore, the essential oil of Hinoki wood is rich in aromatic chemicals (phytoncides), namely aplpha-Terpinyl Acetate and Limonene, which contributes to its distinctive lemon-scented aroma and its resistance to rot, decay and insects.
The Ayurvedic medical system suggests Hinoki oil for incense, due to the pleasantly sweet, woody aroma that helps promote feelings of ease and relaxation, while also being an excellent oil for the skin.
History of Hinoki
Hinoki was used in Shinto (Japanese religion dating back to the 8th century that paired worshipping ancestors and natural spirits with the belief in scared power in both animate and in-animated things) during ceremonial and purification rituals. Note* Shinto was the official religion of Japan up until 1945.
Modern Scientific Research confirms that Hinoki Oil possesses several beneficial properties:
Hinoki essential oil is high in monoterpenes and sesquiterpenols. The chemical breakdown varies between oil sourced from the wood, the leaves and the roots of the Hinoki tree. However, some constituents are common between all varieties including cadinol, gamma muurolene, and cadinene.
1. Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects
Hinoki helps to respiratory health and eases symptoms associated with asthma. It is also a wonderful oil to use for muscle pain while promoting skin health and stimulates immunity due to its powerful antioxidants and flavonoids. It has potent antioxidants, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in various models.
2. Antimicrobial Properties
Essential Oils from Hinoki have shown antibacterial and antifungal activity, supporting its traditional use in treating parasitic infections and blood sugar issues.
3. Cognitive and Neurological Benefits
Research also indicates that Hinoki may offer neuroprotective benefits. It helps decrease negative emotional stress, which In vitro studies, suggest that it greatly help in depressive syndromes. Hinoki helps to promote a sense of flow and open-mindedness.
4. Skin Benefits
Hinoki Essential Oil is also finding its way into skincare. Its potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may contribute to a healthy and radiant complexion (though always dilute properly before topical application!).
Final Thoughts
As we have discovered, the genus Hinoki Cypress offers a compelling example of the long standing relationship between humans and the medicines found in the plant kingdom. From their striking botanical features to their complex phytochemistry and diverse traditional applications across cultures, Hinoki Cypress is far more than just an attractive shrub or tree. They are a rich source of potent bioactive compounds that are beneficial to our bodies.
Hinoki Essential Oil is one of the fine ingredients in the following Seeds of Life Elixirs Products:
Goodbye Mold and Mildew Spray Elixir
Purify & Cleanse Mist Spray Elixir
Scents of Nature ~ All Natural Insect Repellent Mist Spray Elixir
Scents of Nature ~ Bathroom Refresh Elixir
Disclaimer
Although Hinoki Esential Oil is used in Seeds of Life Elixirs formulations, is crucial to approach the use of some species of Hinoki Cypress with caution, it is NOT to be ingested. This blog post is for informational purposes only and does NOT constitute medical advice. Always do a 30 minute patch test before applying any new oil to your skin.
About the Author:
Hello to you all! I am Sheila Howard, Blog Specialist. I am sincerely delighted to provide this incredible information for Seeds of Life Elixirs. I enjoy discovering the natural benefits of amazing botanical plants, flowers, herbs, seeds and barks. I hope you find this information to be a true asset to your overall well being and peace of mind.
