May Chang
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Litsea cubeba
BIOTANICAL FAMILY
Lauraceae
COUNTRIES OF ORIGIN
China, India, Southeast Asia
PLANT PART
Fruit (berry)
NOTE
Top-Middle
EXTRACTION METHOD
Steam Distilled
AROMA
Lemony, sweet, and fresh
GC/MS REPORT
Aldehydes & Monoterpene: Geranial (18%); Neral (15%); δ-3-carene (18%)
NOTES ON CHEMICAL COMPONENTS
Geranial and Neral (called Citral)'s known therapeutic properties include: airborne antimicrobial, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, sedative, and itching relief. δ-3-carene’s known therapeutic properties include: anti-inflammatory, mucolytic, and bone loss prevention.
THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS
Skin care - recommended for acne and oily skin; reputed to reduce excess perspiration and as a deodorant. Musculoskeletal system - recommended for muscle tension, arthritic and rheumatic pain, inflammation, and tendinitis. Digestive system - a digestive stimulant, it is recommended for appetite loss and flatulence. Cardiovascular system - recommended for treating high blood pressure. Antimicrobial - recommended for infections with high fever and pain.
EMOTIONAL/ENERGETIC QUALITIES
Promotes alertness, mental focus, and optimism; alleviates stress, anxiety, and depression.
ADMINISTRATION METHOD
Topical application (diluted), and inhalation
ETNOBOTANY LORE AND ANCIENT PARTICLES
May Chang is a very fragrant tree that grows in eastern Asia. As its fruits resemble cubeb pepper, the name reflects that. The English name relates to the Cantonese name Myu Tsam Fa, which means "May Flower." China is the biggest producer of oil and has traditionally used it to treat dysmenorrhoea, stomach and back aches, muscular pain, and headaches. May Chang flowers are also used to alleviate asthma, treat high blood pressure and coronary heart disease. The berries are also used to prepare a decoction for gastric and abdominal pain
SAFETY
Non-toxic; can be irritant and sensitizing if used at a dilution rate higher than 0.8%
DISCLAIMER: The information provided above is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease; these statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Please consult a licensed healthcare specialist for specific medical advice.