All About Cistus
The aroma from cistus, also called rock rose, has been used for a calming effect. This is likely related to the alpha pinene content. Its constituents may also offer neuro-protective potential related to diseases like Alzheimer’s. Leaves from the shrub have been traditionally used for diabetes, diarrhea, inflammation, and skin ailments.
Fun Fact
The benefits of cistus were found by shepherds thousands of years ago. The gum from the plant would get stuck to their sheep, so they would have to try to get it out. After doing this time and time again, they realized that if they had cuts on their hands when they went to get the gum out, the cuts would heal much quicker.
Cistus Blog Articles
Cistus
Latin Name: Cistus ladaniferus
Family: Cistacea
Other Common Names
- Rockrose, labdanum, ambreine, ciste, red cistus, ladania, luvidkia, ledoni, xistari, heliantemo, helianto
- There are multiple species of cistus
Plant Description
Cistus is a flowering perennial shrub of the Cistaceae family growing on dry rocky soil in the Mediterranean
Herb Description
Leaves are prepared fresh or dried. For making a tea, steep 1 Tbsp of dried herb, or 2 Tbsp of fresh herb in 2 cups of boiled water for five minutes. Strain and drink.
Essential Oil Description
Oil is solvent extracted or steam distilled from the gum resin (called labdanum), or from the leaves and twigs. The oil is pale orange or yellow with an aroma that is warm, herbaceous, fresh, spicy, floral, dry, and woody.
Key Constituents
- Pinene / Alpha Pinene / Delta Pinene / Beta Pinene
- Ledol
- Bornyl acetate
- Hexen-1-ol
- Camphene
- Veridifloral / Viridifloral
- Sabinene
- Benzaldehyde
- 1,8-cineole / Cineole / Eucalyptol / Cajeputol
- Eugenol
