Litsea Cubeba
Litsea Cubeba essential oil, also known as May Chang, is steam distilled from the fruits of the Litsea cubeba tree native to Southeast Asia. With its fresh, citrusy aroma, it's used in aromatherapy and skincare for its uplifting and balancing properties.
Quick Facts
- Best for
- Oily skin, Acne, Stress and anxiety
- Common form
- Tea, tincture, capsule, food, or topical preparation depending on the remedy.
- Caution level
- Moderate - review cautions and interactions
- Related searches
- Oily skin, Acne, Stress and anxiety, Digestive discomfort, Insect bites
How this remedy page was created
Created from Eden's remedy database, traditional-use context, and public health references. Educational only; not a diagnosis or treatment plan.
Image disclosure: remedy images are AI-assisted only when marked reviewed for botanical accuracy.
Benefits
Helps balance oily skin conditions
Uplifts mood while calming nervous tension
Has antimicrobial properties
May help with acne and skin irritations
Supports healthy digestive function
The Science & Wisdom Behind Litsea Cubeba
Scientific Evidence
Litsea Cubeba contains high levels of citral (geranial and neral), compounds with proven antimicrobial activity and mood-enhancing properties. Studies suggest it may help regulate sebum production in oily skin.
Traditional Use
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, litsea has been used to support digestive health, relieve stress, and as a natural insect repellent. In Southeast Asian traditional medicine, it's been used for skin conditions and to calm the mind.
Anecdotal Reports
Many aromatherapists report that litsea oil offers similar mood-lifting benefits to lemon oil but with a calmer energy that doesn't cause agitation, making it suitable for those sensitive to stimulation.
How to Use Litsea Cubeba
General Usage
Litsea Cubeba essential oil can be diffused, added to skincare formulations for oily or acne-prone skin, used in natural perfumery, or diluted and applied topically.
Common Uses For:
Recipe
Balancing Facial Toner: Add 3 drops Litsea Cubeba, 2 drops Lavender, and 1 drop Tea Tree to 4 oz witch hazel. Apply to clean skin with a cotton pad.
Safety & Cautions
Natural does not always mean risk-free. Use this section to decide when a remedy deserves extra care or a clinician conversation.
Key cautions
- ! Use medicinal amounts thoughtfully and stop if symptoms worsen or an allergic reaction occurs.
- ! Ask a qualified clinician before use if pregnant, nursing, managing a chronic condition, or taking prescription medication.
Avoid or get medical guidance first
- ! Do not use as a substitute for urgent medical care or prescribed treatment.
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Sources
- Herbs at a Glance - NCCIH
- Herbs and Supplements - MedlinePlus
- How Medications and Supplements Can Interact - NCCIH