Cistus oil (Labdanum) has a long history of medicinal and ritual use. Also known as Rockrose, it is a resinous and extremely fragrant bush that grows wild throughout the Mediterranean region. Cistus contributes greatly to the luscious aroma of the Corsican countryside and is an integral part of the island’s aromatic biome, called the maqui.
The essential oil of cistus offers a stunning, resinous-herbaceous, uniquely sweet perfume. This aromatic gem is interwoven into Corsican tradition, primarily for meditation, respiratory assistance, and skincare. The Rockrose bush exudes a resinous dark brown mass that has been used for centuries as a temple incense, perfume, and skin fortifier. Thought to be magical and therapeutic, it was an ingredient in Kyphi, the ancient Egyptian incense famous for stimulating altered and euphoric moods.
Cistus laniferous, also known as Rock Rose or Labdanum, is a small shrub that is cultivated in the UK but grows wild in the mountainous regions of the eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East. Cistus comes from the Greek word “Christos” meaning “evergreen shrub”. The word ladanifer is derived from “ledon” meaning “dark resin”. Dark resins are where chewing gum came from in ancient times! Apart from cistus, it is also known as labdanum, Rose of Sharon, or Rock Rose.
| Name | Cistus essential oil |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cistus laniferous |
| Native | Greece and Spain |
| Common Names | Labdanum, Rose of Sharon or Rock Rose.Ambreine, Ciste, Ciste de Crète, Ciste à Gomme, Ciste Ladanifère, Ciste Velu, Cistus creticus, Cistus incanus, Cistus ladanifer, Cistus ladaniferus, Cistus polymorphus, Cistus villosus, Cyste, Jara, Jara de Ládano, Lédon, Rockrose.Cistus creticus, Cistus incanus, Cistus ladanifer, Cistus ladaniferus, Cistus ladanosma, Cistus polymorphus, Cistus villosus, Cistus viscosus, Common Gum Cistus, Cyste, Gum Cistus, Gum Rock-Rose, Jara, Jara de Ládano, Labando, Ladan, Ladanon, Ladanum, Laudanum, Lack-Zistrose, Lédon, Rockrose, Sticky Jara |
| Plant Growth Habit | Small, wild-growing shrub |
| Soil | Thrive in poor-quality soil. |
| Plant Size | 3 meters high |
| Leaf | Lanced shaped leaves that are white & woolly beneath and sticky on top |
| Flower | Fragrant white flowers |
| Oil Color | Golden Yellow |
| Flavor/Aroma | Rich, warm, fresh, balsamic, woody, herbaceous, and slightly spicy/floral. |
| Method of Extraction | Steam or Hydro Distillation |
| Plant Part Used | Flowers, stem, and Leaves |
| Shelf Life | 4 years |
| Commonly Blended With |
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Cistus essential oil comes from steam distillation of flowering tops and leaves of Cistus laniferous. True cistus oil is steam distilled from dried flowering plants. Inferior cistus oil can also be made from the steam distillation of the leaves and branches. Cistus essential oil, known for its remarkable wound healing abilities, is also prized for its meditative effect where it is said to slow the mind of clutter to allow for centering and deeper concentration. Cistus is a very powerful oil to use with aging skin whereby it offers a considerable astringent activity for toning and tightening. In aromatherapy, Cistus is widely used in anti-aging skincare, an anti-inflammatory for arthritis and painful joints, and anti-spasmodic for menstrual-related issues.
History
The origin of the name “Cistus” originates from the Greek word “Christos” which is interpreted to mean evergreen shrub, while the word “ladanifer” comes from “ledon” which describes the dark resin which the plant produces. Thousands of years ago shepherds noticed the gum of the Cistus shrub because the goats and sheep would pick it up in their coats while they were grazing in the fields. As it was combed from the beards and thighs of sheep and goats, the shepherds discovered that it had helpful therapeutic applications. In fact, it is suspected that some of the false beards that were worn by Egyptian pharaohs were made from the hair of goats, held together by the resin from the cistus plants.
Health Benefits of Cistus Essential Oil
- Cistus is known for its ability to fight against the effects of aging skin as it tightens and tones skin.
- It also works well to fight against infections, particularly those of the upper respiratory kind such as bronchitis or other causes of coughs.
- Cistus may also be used to aid in circulation, fight urinary tract infections, reduce arthritis pain and swelling, and help with hemorrhaging.
- From an emotional and mental perspective, it works to relax the mind, calm the nerves, and promote a sense of soothing and ease.
- Cistus Essential Oil helps to change negative thoughts, bring emotions back to a place of serenity, and provide a balance of hormones.
- It’s a mood enhancer that can affect the circulatory system, respiratory system, nervous system, and intestines, allowing them to work more efficiently and effectively.
- Cistus Essential Oil is useful for healing abdominal pain caused by menstruation, cystitis, or other issues when combined with Sweet Marjoram.
- Hemorrhoids and fissures can be reduced by placing a few drops of Cistus essential oil into warm water and using it as a sitz bath. Or add a drop or two to carrier oil and apply topically to ease inflammation.
- For bronchial infections, coughs, or other upper respiratory problems, add a few drops to carrier oil and apply directly to the chest area to open breathing passages, fight infection, and reduce cough.
- For issues with autoimmune problems, add a few drops to a cold mist humidifier and diffuse into the air, or add a few drops to carrier oil and apply topically to the bottoms of the feet each night before bedtime.
- Add a few drops to carrier oil and apply directly to wounds in order to speed up healing such as scrapes, burns, or cuts.
- Apply topically as a massage oil, applied gently to the joints, to alleviate the negative effect of inflammation that comes from rheumatoid and other types of arthritis problems.
Health Benefits Cistus Essential Oil
Improves Wounds
One of the most common uses of cistus essential oil throughout history has been to improve wounds and infections. The combination of its powerful antiseptic and antimicrobial properties helps to clean the wound of any harmful microbes. It also prevents it from being infected by any other harmful pathogens. Cistus has shown abilities to fight against Staph, Candida, and E.Coli. It is also known for its ability to slow the bleeding from a fresh wound.
To speed healing time and reduce infection in minor wounds, mix a drop or two of cistus essential oil with a carrier oil and apply it to the wound before covering it with a bandage.
Disinfectant
Keeping our homes, businesses, and personal items clean is a top priority in a world where people are unknowing carriers of communicable diseases. This may be something as simple as the common cold or serious conditions such as food poisoning. Widespread use of chemical cleansers can even lead to resistant bacteria evolving. Oils like cistus essential oil have been shown to kill the most common bacteria and molds that cause illness such as listeria or salmonella. Used in combination with other oils like lemon or tea tree can help keep the surfaces of your home germ-free. (1)
Natural Pain Killer
Modern pain killers are generally mild enough to help control everyday pain, whether, from bruises, headaches, or even just muscle strain, they come with their own set of side effects and aren’t usually recommended for long-term use. Natural pain relief remedies may be used more frequently as well, making them an excellent supplement to over-the-counter medications. Cistus oil has been shown to work on pain by decreasing inflammation and also blocks the chemicals that send pain signals to the brain. (2)
Add a few drops of cistus oil to a carrier oil and apply to the places on your body where it is needed most. It may also help prevent infections in minor cuts and scrapes as well as ease inflammation and pain.
Herbicide
Though we often think of insects as pests, certain plants can also be invasive pests in your lawn and garden. Many chemicals that are used to control invasive plants and weeds are made with chemicals that can be extremely dangerous to humans and animals. Cistus essential oil has been shown to prevent the seeds of certain plants from ever germinating. This will lead to the eventual death of the invasive population as they are no longer able to reproduce. This may be useful for plants that may not respond to other human-made chemicals as well. (3)
Mix cistus oil with water or vinegar and apply to the problem plants and the ground beneath to prevent the germination of further seeds.
Ease Anxiety
Anxiety is a natural state of stress, usually when we worry or feel like we are rushed in our everyday lives. For many people, this happens rarely and is easily resolved. Many other people may find it hard to recover from an anxious state and have found that aromatherapy can affect the levels of anxiety. Cistus essential oil is comprised of bornyl acetate and has been found to have a depressant effect on the mind, allowing the body to stop producing hormones that escalate stress. This may allow people to work through anxiety naturally. (4)
Create a roll-on using cistus oil and lavender in a carrier oil that can be carried with you throughout the day. Apply to your wrists or neck for easy access to a scent which fosters a relaxing attitude.
Treat Mite Infections
Scabies mites are microscopic creatures that can live on human skin for months. They bite and burrow into the epidermis to lay their eggs. This leads to a red, itchy rash that can last for weeks. It is also highly contagious and passes from one person to another through skin contact and clothing that has come into contact with the infected skin. Terpinene-4-ol, a constituent of cistus oil, has been shown to prevent the egg-laying ability of the mite and may help clear up an infection when used in conjunction with medical treatments. Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties can also ease the pain of the infected site and prevent any secondary infections from the skin that has been itched raw. (5)
Lower Blood Pressure
Any number of factors can contribute to high blood pressure. It may be purely environmental, such as working in a high-stress profession, or a medical condition such as anxiety. Hypertension is one of the many symptoms of heart disease, and controlling your blood pressure can go a long way to preventing other health issues. Cistus essential oil has been shown to not only reduce mental anxiety but also to help lower your blood pressure by relaxing the vascular walls and allowing for an easier flow of blood throughout your body. (6)
Maintains Healthy Skin Conditions
The astringent properties of cistus essential oil help to tone the skin and reduce signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines. For those who are prone to acne or have particularly oily skin, this oil can help regulate the production of sebum and clear up breakouts.
It can be blended with other skin-healing oils such as rose absolute, elemi, chamomile, and neroli to reduce the look of scars, psoriasis, eczema, and other skin disorders. [rx]
To keep skin looking young and healthy, add a drop or two of cistus essential oil to your daily moisturizer. For the treatment of psoriasis, eczema or other disorders, mix with a carrier oil and other healing essential oils of your choice and gently massage onto the affected area.
Reduces Soreness
The analgesic properties of cistus essential oil work together to soothe sore muscles and joints. For those who are suffering from sore muscles, arthritis, or other muscle and joint pain, using cistus essential oil can topically relieve the symptoms. Simply mix a few drops of cistus essential oil to a carrier oil and massage onto sore areas. Alternatively, try adding a few drops to a warm bath.
Alleviates Respiratory Symptoms
Cistus essential oil has both expectorant and mucolytic properties, which help to rid the lungs and nasal passages of excess mucus and clear the sinuses. The antimicrobial properties help to rid the body of harmful pathogens that may be the underlying cause of respiratory symptoms.
If you are suffering from congestion, add a few drops of this essential oil to a bowl of steaming water, cover your face with a towel and breathe in the vapors.
Aids in Meditation
Cistus has been used throughout ancient times as incense in spiritual ceremonies. The delightful scent and calming qualities help to clear the mind and get rid of negative emotions. This greatly benefits the meditation experience. For a general sense of well-being or to aid in meditation, diffuse cistus essential oil throughout your home.
Uplifts your mind
Inhaling cistus essential oil helps remove negative thoughts and induce a calm state of mind, making this an excellent remedy to soothe your nerves and relax your mind.
Fights infections
Cistus essential oil contains antiseptic, antibacterial, and antifungal properties that help the body fight both internal and external infections. It also treats fungal infections due to Botrytis cinerea spores.
Reduces hemorrhoids
Cistus oil contains anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the inflammation of hemorrhoids. Taking a warm bath with a few drops of this essential oil is known to work wonders against this condition.
It’s Good For Acne
Cistus essential oil is anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and astringent, so it helps fight the bacteria that could be found in the skin’s pores, feeding on excess sebum. It removes excess oil from the area. When you use cistus essential oil, it also reduces irritation.
Your skin care regimen can benefit from just a few drops of cistus essential oil. You may also add cistus essential oil to water to make a soothing toner. Some people use an antiacne moisturizer made out of cistus essential oil, along with rice bran oil, jojoba oil, or argan oil.
Cistus Is Good For Dry Coughs
Cistus is beneficial because it is anti-inflammatory and antitussive. Many cough medicines use antitussives for the treatment of dry coughs. A dry cough is nonproductive, and it is typically associated with the tissues found in the airways that are supersensitized.
The use of cistus essential oil works in the brain area responsible for starting a cough. Since it is an anti-inflammatory, it reduces inflammation in the tissue, and the antioxidants in the oil help limit sensitivity and protect from the irritation associated with free radicals. It is the combination of these actions that allow an individual to get relief from their coughing.
It Protects Wounds From Getting Infected
Cistus essential oil contains antibacterial substances known as pinenes. This type of oil is, therefore, well suited for cleaning wounds. Since it is anti-inflammatory and has pain-relieving properties, cistus essential oil is beneficial as well.
To use it for wounds, mix cistus with cool water, and stir the mixture. A cotton ball can then be dipped in the antiseptic wash to clean the wound. The wound should be cleaned first with clear water to remove dust and dirt. As a way to keep infection microbes from becoming a problem and relieve pain, cistus essential oil can be diluted with coconut oil and applied as a salve. It is possible to make it last longer and improve the usage by melting beeswax and mixing it with the oil.
It Reduces The Aging Process
If you have problems with aging, complexion, and the appearance of wrinkles, you can use cistus essential oils. Cistus contains astringent properties that reduce puffiness and tighten the tissues. But it is also an antioxidant that fights free radicals, which can damage the cells and lead to wrinkles.
When the skin is not damaged by free radicals, it functions better and is restored to a healthier appearance. You can mix cistus with your regular daily moisturizer. It is also possible to put a few drops of cistus essential oil into a carrier oil, such as rice bran or jojoba, and massage it into the skin directly.
It’s Good For Memory
When you use essential oils, they may be able to boost your memory and enhance your cognitive function. They do it by stopping the neurotransmitters from breaking down prematurely. That breakdown is associated with the presence of acetylcholinesterase.
Acetylcholinesterase affects the neurotransmitter acetylcholine where two nerve cells meet, which is referred to as the synaptic cleft, and it affects the nerve impulse that is transmitted from one nerve cell to another. Different types of pesticides can kill insects or paralyze them by affecting the acetylcholinesterase. When you use cistus essential oil, it can provide benefits to the brain if you massage a small amount of diluted oil or if you diffuse the oil.
It Works For Stress And Tension
You can calm your mind by using cistus essential oil. It has much value in the relief of anxiety, stress, and tension, along with emotional trauma. Diluted cistus oil can be massaged directly on the skin or infused into the surrounding air with an aromatherapy diffuser.
We experience stress when we are exposed to a threat or pressure. When we are experiencing stress, we have feelings of nervousness, tension, and being on edge. That stress can also affect us physically. Adrenaline is a hormone that is triggered by stress, and it can affect your nervous system.
It Loosens Mucus
As an expectorant, cistus essential oil can loosen mucus, so you are able to expel it effectively and reduce your discomfort. A few drops of cistus can be added to coconut oil, olive oil, or another carrier oil and rubbed on the back, chest, and neck. Decongestant steam can also be inhaled.
To make the steam, boil water, pour it in a ceramic bowl that is not absorbent, add some cistus essential oil (a few drops), and put a towel over your head. Lean your face carefully over the bowl using the towel as a tent to keep the steam inside. Be cautious that you don’t get too close, or scalding could occur. Protect your eyes by closing them and inhaling deeply. You may find that it is necessary to cough up mucus or blow your nose, but keep inhaling until the water is cool and there is no steam coming from it.
Insufficient Evidence for
- Upper respiratory tract infections. Early research shows that taking lozenges containing a specific labdanum product (Cystus052) might help reduce symptoms of the common cold and other respiratory infections.
- Chest congestion.
- Diarrhea.
- Emptying and cleaning the bowel.
- Healing cuts, wounds, and irritation, when applied to the skin.
- Hernia.
- Leprosy.
- Menstrual problems.
- Stimulating the immune system.
- Water retention (edema).
Traditional uses and benefits of Cistus Essential Oil
- It helps quiet the mind and may calm.
- It also stimulates the five senses: touch, feeling, hearing, sight, and taste.
- It is an effective treatment for swollen lymph glands.
- For abdominal pains caused by cold, cystitis, or painful menses, a sitz bath with a blend of Cistus and Sweet Marjoram may provide relief.
- Blend with German Chamomile CO2 to treat chronic slow-healing skin disorders like psoriasis, eczema, infected and inflamed skin conditions of all sorts.
- It is a wonderful oil for those who have been traumatized or suffer from a dramatic loss.
- It increases lymph drainage, is beneficial for acne & oily skin, as well as wrinkles & mature skin.
- Can be used for coughs, colds & bronchitis as well.
- It has been used since the Middle Ages in Europe to treat wounds & ulcers of the skin.
- The gum was used for diarrhea, dysentery, & catarrh.
- It has also been used as a fixative for perfumery.
- Try rubbing a drop or two of Rose of Sharon oil on hands, cup over nose, and inhale deeply.
- Mix Rose of Sharon with olive oil and apply to the face for wrinkles.
- Apply 4 to 5 drops of Rose of Sharon oil to the spine to help with the infection.
- For bronchitis, dilute several drops of Rose of Sharon with a carrier oil and apply to the chest area.
- To help strengthen and support the immune system, apply 2-3 drops to the soles of your feet daily.
Cistus Essential Oil Recipe
Here is how you can use Cistus Essential Oil at home:
- Diffusing – You can add a few drops to a diffuser and enjoy the aromatic scent of this oil while absorbing it by breathing it in. Cistus is great for relaxing, so it’s a good choice if you’re meditating, trying to soothe a headache, or anything similar.
- Inhalation – Some people prefer to just take a whiff of the oil directly from the bottle instead of diffusing it. It can help if you have a cold or some other difficulty breathing clearly.
- Homemade products – If you make candles, soaps, or any other homemade products that need a scent added just add a few drops of cistus. You can even add it to a scent-free moisturizer. It’s used in some skincare products and can enhance the look and feel of your skin, so a good choice for these products.
- Topically – To make massage oil or a blend you can apply to your skin mix a few drops with a carrier oil like fractionated coconut oil.
- Combine 2 drops Cistus Essential Oil, 4 drops of myrrh essential oil, 5 drops of sandalwood essential oil, and 10 drops of frankincense essential oil. Combine the oils in a small dark glass bottle and shake well. Add a few drops of the combined oils to a diffuser and meditate.
- Coughs or other upper respiratory problems. Add 2 to 3 drops of Cistus Essential Oil to a carrier oil like grape seed oil or sweet almond oil, and apply directly to the chest area. It opens the airways and fights infection.
- Abdominal pain. Mix 2 to 3 drops of Cistus Essential Oil and 2 to 3 drops of sweet marjoram oil and add directly to a warm bath. This will help relieve the pain.
- Skin Aging. Mix a few drops of Cistus Essential Oil in an unscented cream or lotion and apply to the skin. Before applying to the face, test the mixture on your hand. This ensures any allergic reactions. Another alternative would be using olive oil. Mix 2 to 3 drops of both Cistus Essential Oil and olive oil then apply to the face. This will also help tighten wrinkles.
- Muscle pain. Dilute a few drops of Cistus Essential Oil with a carrier oil and massage the area to soothe your muscle pains. Adding 5 to 6 drops to a warm bath is another alternative. Make sure you finished running the water before you add the oil. A nice massage or bath infused with Cistus Essential Oil should provide the needed relief.
- Mix 6 drops of Cistus Essential Oil, 3 drops of sandalwood essential oil, and 7 drops of frankincense essential oil. Add the mixture to a diffuser. This combination will help lighten the mood.
Cistus Essential Oil blends with many other essential oils, such as bergamot oil, chamomile oil, lavender oil, sandalwood oil, orange oil, cinnamon oil, myrrh oil, marjoram oil, frankincense oil, and cypress oil.
Other Facts
- Cistus essential oil is spiritual oil and has been used for centuries for meditation. It opens the third eye and oxygenates the brain.
- Cistus is considered one of the ancient spiritual oils with a history of being used in incense as an aid to meditation and centering.
- Cistus is often recommended for meditation in conjunction with sandalwood or frankincense and rose.
- Its aroma evokes deep emotions and eases meditation and ceremony.
- Place in the diffuser for general inhalation, or use in a personal inhaler, during cold and flu season to ward off the effects of infections and other nuisances caused by germs.
Precautions
- If pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult a physician.
- Discontinue use if skin sensitivity occurs.
- Avoid contact with eyes.
- Do not use undiluted on skin.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Do not use it on broken skin or on abrasions.
- Do not use internally, unless directed by a licensed Aromatherapist or physician.
- Possible skin sensitivity.
- Avoid direct sunlight or UV rays for up to 12 hours after applying the product.
Directions
- Topical: Apply 2–4 drops directly to the desired area. Dilution is not required, except for the most sensitive skin. Use as needed.
- Aromatic: Diffuse up to 1 hour 3 times daily.
General Safety Information
Do not take any oils internally and do not apply undiluted essential oils, absolutes, CO2s, or other concentrated essences onto the skin without advanced essential oil knowledge or consultation from a qualified aromatherapy practitioner. For general dilution information, read AromaWeb’s Guide to Diluting Essential Oils. If you are pregnant, epileptic, have liver damage, have cancer, or have any other medical problem, use oils only under the proper guidance of a qualified aromatherapy practitioner. Use extreme caution when using oils with children and be sure to first read the recommended dilution ratios for children. Consult a qualified aromatherapy practitioner before using oils with children, the elderly, if you have medical issues or are taking medications. Before using this or any essential oil, carefully read AromaWeb’s Essential Oil Safety Information page. For in-depth information on oil safety issues, read Essential Oil Safety by Robert Tisserand and Rodney Young.
From Where To Buy
- PROMOTE OVERALL HAIR HEALTH with the use of cistus essential oil. It can help improve the condition of your hair and scalp. MAINTAIN A HEALTHY SCALP by using cistus essential oil regularly. It has been known to promote a healthy scalp.
- CLEANSE AND PURIFY YOUR HOME with cistus essential oil's cleansing and purifying properties. It can help eliminate unwanted odors and create a refreshing atmosphere.
- RELAX AND UNWIND with the soothing properties of cistus essential oil. It can help you relax and improve your sleep quality. RELAX AND CREATE A CALMING ATMOSPHERE with the use of cistus essential oil.
- PROMOTE YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE by incorporating cistus essential oil. It can help with various skin troubles, moisturize your skin, and support your overall skincare routine.
- SUPPORT YOUR DENTAL WELLNESS with the use of cistus essential oil. It can help promote healthy teeth and gums.
- CULTIVATE CLARITY AND PRODUCTIVITY with the help of cistus essential oil. It can help create a productive environment and remove mental clutter.
- ENJOY A REFRESHING EXPERIENCE with cistus essential oil. It can help detoxify your body and curb smoky cravings.
- BLENDS BEAUTIFULLY WITH SPEARMINT OIL. Make a refreshing and clarifying diffuser blend by adding 3 drops of cistus essential oil organic or otherwise and 2 drops of spearmint oil into your diffuser.
- ENJOY NATURAL AND QUALITY-ASSURED ESSENTIAL OILS with Gya Labs. All our essential oils are carefully cultivated, packaged in amber bottles for purity, and cruelty-free certified. If you're unsatisfied, reach out to us within 365 days for a FULL REFUND.
or
- 100% Pure Labdanum Absolute Essential Oil - Pure Gold only produces the highest quality essential oils. Our Labdanum Absolute is 100% pure and completely undiluted. Botanical name: Cistus ladanifer
- Bottled In Glass Amber Bottle With Dropper - All of our essential oils are bottled in 10ml U/V resistant amber glass bottles. Included is a built-in dropper for simple & easy drop control
- Hundreds Of Uses - Labdanum Absolute oil can be ssed to make homemade lotions, candles, soaps, body wash, massage oils, roll on bottles, and so much more!
- Sourced & Bottled In The United States - Pure Gold scours the globe in search for the finest plants & farmers. We buy direct from the source and bottle all of our essential oils in the United States.
- Highest Quality Guarantee - If our essential oils aren't the best oils you've ever used, simply contact us for a full refund!
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