Magical and Medicinal Uses of Cypress

Gender: Feminine

Planet: Saturn
Element: Earth
Powers: Comfort, Death, Eternity, Exorcism, Grief, Healing, Longevity, Mourning, Protection, Stability

Magical Uses and History: The cypress is well known as the "Tree of Mourning," showing up in graveyards across the world to help communicate with, manage, and ferry souls. Its association with death and grief is well-documented in the myths and legends passed down through history, the most famous of these detailing the life of Cyparissus. According to ancient Greek and Roman mythology, Cyparissus's grief after accidentally killing his beloved stag transformed him into a cypress tree. In some versions of the story, Apollo, who was in love with Cyparissus, transforms Cyparissus into a cypress tree so his tears may fall forever, as seen by the tear-shaped drops the sap forms as it dries. Cyparissu's story, however, is not the only connection the cypress has with grief.

Ancient coffins were constructed using cypress in both ancient Egypt and across Europe, and the branches were often carried and burned by mourners to send up prayers as well as fumigate after the deceased had been removed. Cypress trees were planted next to or overtop of graves and even in front of houses of the deceased. As such, cypress grew to not only be associated with grief, but also death and the Underworld. This practice of planting cypresses in graveyards is a tradition that carried over well into the Victorian period, with people growing to believe lost spirits took up refuge within its branches. Needless to say, cypress is a powerful ally in death and grief magic. It can be used in spells and rituals to honor the dead, as an offering, to ease your grief, or even to provide the deceased with luck and love in the afterlife. It can also be burned as an incense or added to spells and rituals to communicate with the dead, help them cross over, or to help relieve grief.

Not only is the cypress associated with death and loss, but also immortality, which seems contradictory until you dive into the folklore. The cypress, like other evergreens, does not lose its leaves in the winter months and remains green throughout the season, making it appear everlasting. Coupled with its notorious ability to live "forever," it is no wonder it became associated with immortality, perseverance, and strength. Some cypresses are estimated to be around 5,000 years old, making them among the oldest trees on earth. However, their association with death casts this symbolism in a different light. Not only is the cypress often used to promote longevity in users, but it is also a symbol of everlasting life after death. The cypress is often depicted in Zoroastrian artwork for this exact purpose, showing up on rugs, paintings, and more throughout history. In China, the cypress was also viewed as a symbol of longevity, resilience, and strength. It was often depicted in ancient Chinese literature to represent a person of strong moral character, or in paintings to symbolize perseverance. As such, cypress can be used in spells, rituals, and rites for similar purposes. Anoint candles with cypress oil or dried plant parts to reinforce spells or to bring resilience, use cypress smoke to strengthen resolve, fortify boundaries, and help with overall endurance, or carry the wood to lengthen your life.

Finally, cypress is associated with protection and has even been used in exorcisms. Among several Native American traditions, cypress groves were places of refuge. The tree was thought to shelter humans from both physical dangers and spiritual harm, and was often used to build shelters and canoes, as the wood is durable and water-resistant. Cypress wood was used for protective charms, and its presence near water was seen as a natural guardian spirit that watched over travelers, hunters, and those venturing into liminal spaces. Some stories describe the cypress as a tree that absorbs negativity and anchors wandering spirits, keeping malevolent forces at bay. During the medieval period, known mystic and physician Hildegard of Bingen used cypress to exorcise "diabolical or magical forces" from people. Wood was taken from the heart of the tree, a hole was drilled, and water was poured through it while speaking an incantation over the person. As such, cypress can be used in spells and rituals to cleanse one's home and objects, banish negative energies, and shield oneself during spirit work or divination. Burn as an incense to strengthen boundaries, dispel unwanted energies, and clear space, or carry on your person for protection.

Cypress can be used in a number of spells, including:

      Death Spells

      Protection Spells

      Exorcisms

      Ancestor Magic & Communication

      Healing Magic

      Longevity Spells

Medicinal Uses: It is important to note that several varieties of cypress are toxic and therefore should not be ingested unless under the guidance of a professional or if you have sourced your plant material from a reputable source. Cypress has long been used in herbal medicine as an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and astringent, as well as a decongestant. As a decongestant, cypress is used to treat coughs, colds, flu, bronchitis, and general respiratory congestion. As an antiseptic, it can be used externally to treat minor cuts and abrasions, ulcers, bruises, and even acne. Today, cypress is most often used in the form of essential oil, which is diluted in a carrier oil and used to treat topical issues or diffused to treat congestion.

Preparation and Dosage: Internally, cypress bark and leaves can be taken as an infusion. Combine 1 tablespoon with 1.5 cups of boiling water. Allow the mixture to infuse for 5 minutes before drinking no more than 3 times a day for a couple of days. Again, cypress is often toxic, so please consult a professional before using it internally. Externally, cypress can be diluted with a carrier oil and applied directly to the body to treat muscle aches and pains, mild cuts and bruises, and acne. It can also be diffused or added to steam to treat respiratory issues. Cypress essential oil is unsafe to diffuse around pets, so use caution when using.

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