Litsea cubeba is a small plant found in tropical areas. The leaves are typically a vibrant green with a pleasant, lemon like smell. It produces small, pepper-like fruits from which the essential oil is extracted.
TRADITIONAL USES:
Litsea Cubeba (May Chang) is most valued for its calming and anti- inflammatory properties. Other therapeutic uses often found with litsea cubeba include as an astringent, antiseptic, insecticide, hypotensive, stimulant and tonic.
BLENDS WELL WITH
Basil, Bergamot, Geranium, Ginger, Jasmine, Rose, Rosemary, Rosewood and Ylang-Ylang.
HISTORY:
Litsea cubeba essential oil has been used historically in both Japan and Taiwan as an alternative to lemongrass or the more costly lemon verbena.
CAUTIONS:Possible skin irritant.