May Chang, or Litsea essential oil, distilled from ripe berries (seeds) of Litsea cubeba. This is premium quality essential oil versus oil from the leaves that renders a low quality. Essential oil from the berry seeds has tart lemon and sparkling green aromas. May Chang has a high level of citral. This oil is effective in skin care, particularly as an astringent for oily skin, but should be well diluted for skin application or in any products intended for that purpose.
Research performed by a vapor induced study on Litsea cubeba (May Chang) essential oil
extracted from seeds demonstrated positive results with halting cancer cell growth, particularly in the lungs.
“Non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) is a major killer in cancer related human death. Its therapeutic intervention requires superior efficient molecule(s) as it often becomes resistant to present chemotherapy options. Here we report that vapor of volatile oil compounds obtained from Litsea cubeba seeds killed human NSCLC cells”.
See complete study here.
Not only is this oil an effective antibacterial and antimicrobial but adding a few drops in a candle oil diffuser or diffuser can cleanse the air of offensive odors with its fresh citrus notes. Vapor dispersion of May Chang is a must have prophylactic oil for colds and flu.
For natural antibacterial cleaning consider adding May Chang with your other favorite citrus oils for wiping down counter tops, showers, bath tubs, ceramic tiled or porcelain surfaces. Not only will you have an effective antibacterial cleaning solution but the aroma of May Chang leaves behind a most enjoyable happy scent!
Batch specific GC/MS analysis for this essential oil is available by clicking on the green tab above.
Aromatherapy use: acne, analgesic, anti-anxiety, antibacterial, anti-convulsant, antidepressant, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, antiviral, dermatitis, excessive perspiration, flatulence, oily skin, indigestion, insect repellent, sanitation, sedative
General use: Home fragrance, cosmetics, skin care, bath and body lotions, creams, gels, massage oil blends, perfume, candles and soaps
Contraindications: Non-toxic, possible irritant and sensitizing; dilute well for skin application. May Chang should not be used by those with glaucoma or on children.
Image: Litsea cubeba, Wukeng Township, Qingtian County, Zhejiang Province Neux-Neux [CC BY-SA 3.0], from Wikimedia Commons