Jasmine
Here in Cyprus, it is found practically in every garden being ornamental. Jasmine symbolizes purity, love, hope, and happiness. The actual word Jasmine means “gift of God” and as such, it is often used to decorate weddings or in the bride's bouquet. This exquisite essential oil is renowned for its calming properties, acting as a natural stress reliever and anxiety reducer. Its sweet, floral aroma not only induces relaxation but also promotes a sense of euphoria, making it an excellent mood enhancer. Jasmine oil is celebrated for its skin-nourishing qualities, effectively moisturizing the skin, while its antiseptic properties contribute to overall skin health. Furthermore, the oil is recognized for its aphrodisiac properties, enhancing sensuality, and promoting a romantic atmosphere.
Geranium
What can we say about geranium, which is one of the most popular and traditional flowering plants that we can find in almost all gardens and yards for decades, especially in our grandparents' houses. Geranium oil offers a plethora of therapeutic benefits. Known for its balancing properties, this essential oil is particularly effective in promoting emotional well-being by alleviating stress and anxiety. Its anti-inflammatory properties contribute to soothing skin irritations and conditions, fostering a healthy complexion. Its also recognized for its ability to support hormonal balance, making it a popular choice for women experiencing menstrual or menopausal symptoms. Additionally, its delightful floral aroma promotes relaxation and a positive mood.
Bergamot
Bergamot oil, derived from the citrus fruit of the bergamot orange, offers a range of health and wellness benefits and we can find it in several houses on the island. The fruit is not eaten raw, but it can be made into spoon sweets and jam. The aroma of bergamot is distinctive and intense and is used in a huge variety of teas, most famously Earl Grey tea, and in loukoumi. One of its most important applications is in the cosmetics industry, where it has been used for about three centuries in soaps, perfumes, lotions, deodorants, etc. Is a powerful mood enhancer, helping to alleviate stress, anxiety, and fatigue. With its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it proves effective in supporting skin health by reducing acne and promoting a clear complexion.
Orange
It is the most famous fruit of Cyprus considering that the island is full of orange trees. Before the Turkish invasion in Famagusta, the orange festival was held every year. Famous for its oranges, Famagusta was surrounded by large orchards, rich in citrus fruits, which is why it is called the city of Orange. Orange oil, is a versatile essential oil with a multitude of benefits. Its bright and uplifting citrus aroma is known to enhance mood and reduce stress. Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, orange oil supports skin health by promoting a radiant complexion and aiding in collagen production. It boosts energy levels and mental alertness.
Rosemary
A well-known plant in antiquity when the ancient Greeks used it in various religious ceremonies and celebrations. The tender shoots and leaves of rosemary are used as a flavoring in many dishes. Rosemary, or as we call it in Cyprus, Lasmari, you can find it planted in Cyprus houses, has a special bitter taste that complements and flavours various dishes. It is considered to enhance and activate memory. An aromatic herb with a rich history yields an essential oil with a multitude of health benefits. Known for its stimulating and invigorating properties, rosemary oil is renowned for enhancing mental clarity, concentration, and memory retention. The oil is celebrated for its ability to relieve muscle aches and pains, making it a popular choice for massage and aromatherapy.
Oregano
The name of the genus Origanum is derived from the Greek words "mount", meaning mountain, and "ganos", meaning beauty, splendour, denoting a plant jewel of the mountains. It is a species found exclusively in Cyprus and is restricted in Paphos Forest, in the valleys of Roudia and Xeros, at an altitude of 250-925 meters. Oregano oil, possesses potent antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Rich in compounds such as carvacrol and thymol, oregano oil is known for its ability to combat infections and boost the immune system. It has anti-inflammatory properties that may provide relief from various conditions, including respiratory issues. Oregano oil's antioxidant content contributes to overall health by neutralizing free radicals in the body. Additionally, it is recognized for its potential in promoting digestive health and supporting the body's natural detoxification processes.
Rose
A beautiful plant that you can find almost in every Cypriot house. Roses, beyond their exquisite beauty and symbolic significance, offer a range of benefits for both physical and emotional well-being. Rose essential oil, is celebrated for its calming and mood-enhancing properties. Its sweet and floral aroma is known to reduce stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation. Rose oil is also a natural astringent, making it valuable for skincare by helping to tone and balance the skin, and reducing redness and inflammation. Rich in antioxidants, roses contribute to overall skin health by combating free radicals and supporting a youthful complexion. Furthermore, the scent of roses is often associated with improved sleep and heightened feelings of positivity.
Grapes
Grapes have been grown in Cyprus for centuries, as the island was the only place where the Philoxera beetle disease, which destroyed vineyards throughout Europe in the 1800s, did not spread. The two most common local varieties are Mavro (red) and Xinisteri (white). The ancient variety Maratheytiko (red) is also cultivated to a lesser extent. In addition to the production of wine, the grapes are used in the preparation of many sweets traditional sweets such as palouzes and soutzioukos.
Grapes, offer a host of health benefits. The abundance of vitamins C and K in grapes supports the immune system and aids in blood clotting and bone health, respectively. The natural sugars found in grapes provide a quick energy boost, and improve skin health, as the antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and promote a youthful complexion.
Lavender
In Cyprus, there is a place, Cyherbia with specially landscaped lavender gardens, a lavender labyrinth for meditation walks, a distillation room where extraction of lavender essential oil takes place, and many other unique features for all the family, Renowned for its calming properties, lavender aids in relaxation and stress relief, promoting a peaceful atmosphere. Its soothing scent is also celebrated for improving sleep quality. Lavender boasts anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities, making it beneficial for skincare, relieving minor burns, insect bites, and irritations. The herb's versatility extends to headache relief, muscle and joint pain alleviation, and immune system support, thanks to its antimicrobial properties. Additionally, lavender contributes to an improved mood and mental clarity, providing a sense of well-being during stressful times.