May Chang essential oil is derived from the fruit of the Litsea cubeba tree, which is native to Southeast Asia. The oil has a fresh, citrusy aroma and is used in aromatherapy for its uplifting and refreshing properties. May Chang oil can also be used topically, diluted in a carrier oil, to help improve skin tone and reduce inflammation.

Essential Oil Profile / Monograph

Botanical Name: Litsea cubeba

Common Names: May Chang, Mountain Pepper

Plant Family: Lauraceae

Countries of Origin: China, Indonesia, Taiwan, Vietnam

Extraction Method: Steam distillation

Parts Used: Fruit

Essential Oil Aroma: Fresh, citrusy, lemony

Essential Oil Color: Yellow to pale green

Viscosity: Thin

Perfumery Note: Top

Strength of Aroma: Medium

Blends Well With: Bergamot, black pepper, cardamom, cedarwood, geranium, ginger, grapefruit, jasmine, lemon, neroli, palmarosa, petitgrain, rosemary, sandalwood, ylang-ylang

Therapeutic Properties: Analgesic, antibacterial, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, carminative, deodorant, digestive, diuretic, febrifuge, hepatic, insecticide, laxative, rubefacient, stimulant, stomachic, tonic

Uses: Anxiety, cellulite, depression, digestive disorders, fever, flatulence, hair care, insect bites, muscle aches and pains, oily skin, respiratory disorders

Contraindications: Non-toxic and non-irritating

Side Effects: None known

Chemical Constituents: Citral (up to 90%), geranial, neral, limonene, myrcene, a-terpinene, octanol, 3-octanone, linalool

What is May Chang?

May Chang is an essential oil derived from the fruit of the Litsea cubeba tree, which is native to Southeast Asia. The tree is also known as the “mountain pepper” tree, and the oil has a fresh, citrusy aroma. It grows in China, Indonesia, Taiwan, and Vietnam. The tree can grow up to 20 meters (65 feet) tall. The leaves are oblong-shaped and have a lemon-like scent. The flowers are small and white. The fruits are small, round, and yellow-green. Each fruit contains two seeds.

Benefits

– Uplifting mood and reducing stress

– Boosting energy levels

– Supporting the immune system

– Reducing inflammation

– Improving skin health

Uses

It can be used in diffusers, vaporizers, or humidifiers to release its refreshing and uplifting aroma into the air. It can also be added to massage oils or lotions and used for topical application.

Historical use of May Chang as a herbal medicine

The Litsea cubeba tree has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. The fruits, leaves, and bark were used to treat a variety of conditions, including digestive disorders, fevers, and infections.

Topical use

May Chang essential oil can be diluted with a carrier oil and applied topically to the skin. It is said to help improve skin health by reducing inflammation and acne.

May Chang essential oil benefits for skin

May Chang essential oil is thought to offer several benefits for skin health, including reducing inflammation and acne. It is also said to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

May Chang essential oil benefits for hair

May Chang essential oil is said to be beneficial for hair health, including reducing dandruff and promoting hair growth.

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For kids

Yes, May Chang oil is considered safe for kids over 12 when used in moderation.

For pets

Yes, May Chang oil is considered safe for use on pets when used in moderation.

Aromatherapy

May Chang oil can be used in diffusers, vaporizers, or humidifiers to release its refreshing and uplifting aroma into the air. It can also be added to massage oils or lotions and used for topical application.

Diffuser blends for aromatherapy with May Chang Oil

1. May Chang and Lavender: This blend is said to be helpful in promoting relaxation and sleep.

2. May Chang and Lemon: This blend is said to be uplifting and refreshing.

3. May Chang and Peppermint: This blend is said to be invigorating and energizing.

4. May Chang and Rosemary: This blend is said to be stimulating and mentally clarifying.

5. May Chang and Sweet Orange: This blend is said to be cheerful and uplifting.

6. May Chang and Tea Tree: This blend is said to be purifying and cleansing.

7. May Chang and Ylang Ylang: This blend is said to be calming and soothing.

DIY recipes with May Chang Oil

DIY Relaxing Bath Salts

Add 1 cup of Epsom salts and 1 cup of baking soda to a bowl. Stir in 10 drops of May Chang oil and 5 drops of lavender essential oil. Pour the mixture into a jar and add it to your bathwater.

DIY Stress Relief Roller Bottle Blend

Add 10 drops of May Chang oil, 5 drops of lavender essential oil, and 3 drops of orange essential oil to a 10 ml roller bottle. Fill the rest of the bottle with carrier oil and roll it on your wrists or diffuse it throughout the room.

DIY Energy-Boosting Roller Bottle Blend

Add 10 drops of May Chang oil, 5 drops of peppermint essential oil, and 3 drops of rosemary essential oil to a 10 ml roller bottle. Fill the rest of the bottle with carrier oil and roll it on your wrists or diffuse it throughout the room.

Precautions

As with any essential oil, it is important to test May Chang essential oil on a small area of skin before using it more broadly. This will help to ensure that you are not allergic to the oil. If you experience any irritation, discontinue use immediately. May Chang essential oil should also be used in moderation, as it can cause skin sensitization if used excessively. Pregnant women and children should avoid using May Chang essential oil. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult with a healthcare professional before using any essential oils.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should not use May Chang oil?

May Chang oil should not be used by pregnant women, children, or people who are allergic to it.

Does May Chang oil interact with any medicine?

May Chang oil may interact with some medicines, so it is always best to check with a healthcare professional before using it if you are taking any medication.

Is it OK to breathe in May Chang oil?

Yes, it is safe to inhale May Chang oil. May Chang oil is said to be helpful in treating depression, anxiety, and nervous tension. It has a refreshing, uplifting, and invigorating effect on the mind and body. May Chang oil is also said to be helpful in treating digestive disorders, indigestion, and flatulence.

Can I use May Chang oil for winkles?

May Chang oil can help to improve the appearance of your skin in several ways. It can help to reduce wrinkles and fine lines, and it can also help to brighten your skin tone. In addition, May Chang oil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to protect your skin from damage caused by bacteria and other microorganisms. It is best to mix it with a carrier oil such as jojoba oil or coconut oil, and then apply it to the areas of your skin that are affected by wrinkles.

Is May Chang oil good for hair growth?

It is a healthy oil for hair. It helps to make hair look and feel healthier. It may also help in hair growth.

References:

Ethnopharmacological Properties and Medicinal Uses of Litsea cubeba

Immunosuppressive Effect of Litsea cubeba L. Essential Oil on Dendritic Cell and Contact Hypersensitivity Responses

Author

  • Noor Ain, BSc, Master Herbalist

    Noor Ain has Bachelor of Science (BSc) from Clarkson University New York and Florida Atlantic University Florida. In addition he has completed Advanced Master Herbalist Diploma Course, Center of Excel...

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