May Chang Essential Oil

Also known as mountain pepper, exotic verbena, and tropical verbena, may chang is a small tropical tree native to China, and other regions in East Asia, that has scented flowers and foliage, and small berries shaped like peppers. The essential oil is produced by steam distillation from the fruits, and has an intense lemon perfume similar to that of lemon grass. The oil blends well with basil, geranium, jasmine, lavender, lemon grass, neroli, orange, petitgrain, rose, rosemary, rosewood, and ylang-ylang.

Use it in lotion and cream blends to treat acne, dermatitis, spots, greasy skin and in deodorants where it will help to control perspiration.

It has digestive properties, and could be added to fomentations or massage blends to ease digestion and flatulence.

May chang's calming effects are useful if you can't sleep. It is known for dealing with insomnia; try combining it in a blend with lavender and Roman chamomile, and drift off to sleep!

Caution: May cause irritation to skin and mucous membranes; best to use well diluted in a carrier oil and in low doses. Avoid using on individuals with sensitive or damaged skin.