Cypress is an evergreen tree that belongs to the Cypressaceae family. Its origin is Japan, and it is also called by various names such as cypress and red cypress. In Korea, it was introduced from Japan in 1904 and inhabits Jeju Island and southern regions. Cypress, which gives off a subtle and mellow scent, is used not only for its unique scent, but also for water resistance and durability, making it widely used in various household items. It is processed into various forms such as bedding, tableware, deodorant, oil, and cosmetics. In addition, cypress contains a large amount of phytoncide, a volatile organic compound and an excellent natural antibacterial substance, so it is said to have excellent sterilization action to protect the body from pathogenic bacteria and fungi. In addition, it is not only effective in relieving stress based on its excellent calming effect, but also various health benefits such as improvement of skin diseases and strengthening of cardiopulmonary function. Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits of cypress trees. Main effects of cypress
1. Antibacterial action
The most representative effect of cypress is its antibacterial action that protects the body from various pathogenic bacteria. Cypress contains a large amount of phytoncide, a powerful natural antibacterial substance that plants produce to protect themselves from pathogens, fungi, and pests. This abundant amount of phytoncide is said to have an excellent effect in inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria and microorganisms penetrating into the body. In particular, in a study conducted jointly by the Applied Research Team of Mokpo University and the Institute of Natural Resources in 2014, research results were confirmed that cypress extract inhibits the growth of various pathogenic microorganisms. Due to the excellent antibacterial effect of cypress, essential oil extracted from the leaves, stems and roots of cypress is widely used as a raw material for fragrances and insecticides.
2. Improvement of skin diseases
The strong antibacterial action of cypress tree based on the abundant content of phytoncide prevents bacteria from penetrating into the skin and relieves itching, which is said to help a lot in improving the symptoms of atopic and sensitive skin patients. In 2012, Konkuk University conducted a study on the efficacy of cypress leaf extract on atopic dermatitis, and it was also announced that significant anti-inflammatory results were found. In addition, the sabinene component, which is abundantly contained in cypress, facilitates the synthesis of collagen, a hard protein constituting the skin tissue, and reduces the level of melanin that makes the skin black, helping to improve skin elasticity and prevent blemishes and freckles. It is known to give
3. Stress Relief
It is said that it is excellent for reducing stress and stabilizing the autonomic nervous system to find psychological stability due to the unique delicate scent of cypress. Also, psychological stability is known to help relieve depression and insomnia. It is also effective in relieving headache symptoms of unknown cause, and has a good effect on improving concentration, cognitive ability, and memory. According to one study, it is reported that just walking in a cypress forest for 30 minutes reduces the negative emotions of depression more than four times and increases cognitive ability by 20%.
4. Strengthen cardiorespiratory function
The excellent antibacterial action of cypress is said to have a good effect in detoxifying the bacteria that enter the lungs through respiration, strengthening the cardiopulmonary function and preventing various respiratory diseases. Cypress tree is known to have a good effect on improving asthma symptoms as it contains 35 times more sabiene, which is particularly excellent in antibacterial action against asthma-causing pathogens, compared to pine leaves.
5. Prevention of sick house syndrome symptoms
Sick house syndrome refers to the release of volatile organic compounds and pollutants contained in building materials and wallpaper used during the construction of a new house, which causes various health problems. Phytoncide, which is abundant in cypress, is known to neutralize about 99% of formaldehyde, a harmful substance, and is said to help prevent various physical abnormalities caused by sick house syndrome. Other efficacy and side effects
In addition to the various effects introduced above, cypress is said to help maintain a stable immune system by activating immune cells. In addition, it is said that it has a good effect in removing bad odors as it has the characteristic that the characteristic subtle scent spreads more intensely when it comes in contact with water. Although this cypress tree has various health benefits, it is recommended to be careful as it can cause related symptoms if you are allergic to pollen.
