Extracted from a group of flowering plants belonging to the “Cistaceae” family is an essential oil known as Cistus Oil. This oil is derived from a perennial shrubs belonging to the “Cistus” genus in the plant kingdom. Furthermore, this flowering plant family (from which the oil is extracted) comprises of a variety of species (i.e. about 20). In addition, this oil is aromatic and is extremely useful in the treatment of the respiratory conditions. The oil is basically extracted from the leaf and the branch of the shrub belonging to the “Cistus” genus.
A. Chemical constituents of the Cistus Oil:
This oil is extracted from a group of flowering plants belonging to the genus “Cistus” and the “Cistaceae” family. In addition, the “Cistus Landanifer” species consists of organic compounds such as trans-pinocarveol (about 20%), bornyl acetate (about 7.03%), and terpinen-4-ol (about 6.37%).
B. The uses and benefits of the Cistus Oil:
With proper use of this essential oil there comes along with a few benefits. However, one should also consider the adverse reactions or side effects reported from its use:
1. Antimicrobial:
This oil when used is capable of inhibiting the growth of microorganisms, and thereby serves as an “antimicrobial” agent.
2. Astringent:
This oil when applied is capable of reducing bleeding of the skin by stimulating the contraction of cells, and thereby serves as an astringent.
3. Expectorant:
This oil when used can also stimulate the secretion of sputum and thereby serves as an expectorant.
4. Sedative:
This oil also possesses medicinal properties which help “induce sleep” and thereby acts as a sedative.
5. Emmenagogue:
By “stimulating blood flow” in the pelvic area this oil when used serves as an “emmenagogue”.
C. The adverse effects of the Cistus Oil:
Apart from the benefits there are a few adverse effects that come along with its use. There are as follows:
- This oil when used could cause skin irritation especially for those who possess sensitive skin.
- Like several other oils, this oil too affects pregnancy severely and hence pregnant women must avoid using it.