Derived from the May Chang tree in China, this essential oil comes from a pepper-type fruit which has been used for many centuries as treatments for various types of ailments. However, the actual extraction of the essential oil from the fruit did not occur until the middle of the 20th century. Today, you can find May Chang essential oils in many speciality and aromatherapy stores and it does offer many health benefits that can be used on a daily basis.
Enhance Moods
When used in vaporisers, May Chang essential oil creates a happy, cheerful atmosphere which can help you to relax and refresh. Using two parts mandarin essential oil to one part May Chang is highly recommended as it brightens the mood and atmosphere of the room.
Massage
May Chang essential oil has been used for medicinal massage purposes because the odour that emanates helps to clear up bronchial airways for those who suffer from asthma, allergies, bronchitis and other types of chest ailments that affect the lungs. The oil itself is usually diluted with another type of oil for maximum effect in its medicinal purpose. While some Chinese medicine traditions use May Chang essential oil as a throat gargling agent, it is advised strongly that the oil only be used for topical purposes and not taken internally at least in its pure form.
Many Chinese physicians are studying the effects of May Chang essential oil when mixed with other ingredients on the heart rate and blood pressure.
Skin Care
The essential oil of May Chang has properties that are both antibacterial and anti fungal which means that it works very well for lotions and soaps. You can add it to home-made soaps or even commercial products to help treat skin conditions such as eczema, acne and other ailments.
Repels Insects
By including this essential oil in shampoos and soaps, it acts as a natural insect repellent. You can even add it to candles when sitting outdoors and combine it with dog shampoos along with lemongrass or citronella oil to help repel fleas.
Crafting Fragrances
You can create new fragrances by combining May Chang essential oil with your personal products or pot-pourris. The oil is very stable and will not go rancid nearly as quickly as lemon oil, plus it does not have any of the harsh smells of lemongrass. It is fairly inexpensive and works well with a wide variety of oils to create remarkable fragrances.
You can mix May Chang essential oil with rosemary, lavender and petitgrain and enjoy wonderful fragrances. However, you can also add the oil to citrus pot-pourris that include dried botanicals such as lemon balm, thyme or verbena as well as orange and lemon peel. The basic rule is one tablespoon for every eight cups of dried botanicals.
Although harmless, studies have shown that people with glaucoma should avoid using the essential oil of May Chang as the odour created may add pressure to the eyes which might adversely affect their condition. Healthy eyes are not subject to any side effects with the normal use of this essential oil.
Antimicrobial Properties
May Chang oil has been shown to have antimicrobial effects against certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Studies found it can inhibit growth and kill:
- Staphylococcus aureus – causes skin infections
- Escherichia coli – leads to food poisoning and urinary tract infections
- Candida albicans – a fungus causing oral thrush and vaginal infections
The antimicrobial activity comes from active compounds like citral, geraniol and geranyl acetate. These disrupt microbial cell walls and interrupt normal functioning.
Research also discovered May Chang oil can fight influenza viruses. When inhaled, the vapours prevented flu virus particles from replicating in tested animals. This demonstrates potential to help prevent spread of contagious viruses.
Respiratory Benefits
Inhalation of May Chang essential oil may bring relief for certain respiratory conditions.
The anti-inflammatory effects can potentially ease asthma symptoms triggered by inflammation of bronchial airways. Studies show it relaxes smooth muscle spasms in airways for easier breathing.
Its expectorant properties help clear mucus and phlegm from the lungs and nasal passages. This provides relief for congestion in colds, flu, sinusitis and bronchitis.
Antioxidants in May Chang oil also protect lung tissue from damage caused by environmental pollutants and cigarette smoke.
Blending with Other Oils
Here are some great scent combinations using May Chang essential oil:
- Uplifting citrus blend – Combine with bergamot, lemon and neroli oils. Diffuse to brighten mood.
- Floral bouquet – Mix with rose, geranium and ylang ylang oils for a sweet floral perfume.
- Herbal fusion – Add to basil, clary sage and marjoram oils for an earthy aroma. Use in soaps and lotions.
- Fruit medley – Partner with blood orange, tangerine and grapefruit oils for a tangy tropical fragrance. Makes a great room spray.
- Minty citrus – Pair with spearmint and lemon oils for an invigorating scent. Refreshing diffusion blend.
Buy May Chang Oil UK
At Zoom Health we supply May Chang Oil in 10ml bottles for just £2.99, with same day shipping. May Chang is just one of many essential oils that we offer from our UK base.
Photo by Giorgio Trovato on Unsplash
Zoom Health is a leading UK supplier of Home Health Tests and Earplugs
