May Chang - Essential Oil

It has a delicate, fresh citrus-floral scent. This oil has uplifting and cleansing properties and supports concentration. It has antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. The oil is excellent for delicate and sensitive skin, and also benefits oily, inflamed and acne-prone skin. It is obtained by distilling the fruit of the tropical tree Litsea cubeba, which grows in subtropical regions of Southeast Asia, particularly in China, Indonesia and Taiwan. It is a 100 % natural essential oil with no synthetic additives, often also available from certified organic cultivation. It contains high levels of citral (up to 70 %), geraniol and limonene, which give it its distinctive scent and therapeutic properties. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is used to harmonise energy and relieve stress, while in modern aromatherapy it is used to prevent infections and support mental wellbeing.

Its action is primarily based on its strong antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic properties, which inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms on the skin. It has pronounced anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, reducing redness and irritation. As an antioxidant, it protects cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. It supports skin barrier regeneration and pore cleansing, helping to balance the skin's pH. In cosmetics, a concentration of 0,5-2 % is recommended in formulations for facial serums, creams or lotions to avoid irritation. In aromatherapy, it is used in diffusers or diluted in a carrier oil for massage.

It is particularly recommended for oily, inflamed and acne-prone skin, where it helps regulate sebum production and fights acne-causing bacteria. Its soothing properties also make it suitable for sensitive and delicate skin, as well as dehydrated skin, where it supports barrier repair. For mature skin, it acts as an antioxidant to slow ageing. It is not recommended for children under 6 years of age, pregnant women or anyone with a citrus allergy. Always dilute and carry out a patch test. Ideal for skin affected by eczema or fungal infections.

A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2015) demonstrated that Litsea cubeba essential oil at a concentration of 1 % inhibits the growth of Staphylococcus aureus by 95 % and Candida albicans by 89 % after 24 hours of exposure, confirming its antimicrobial effects (Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2015). Further research in Molecules (2018) showed that citral from the oil reduces the inflammatory markers IL-6 and TNF-α by 60 % in human keratinocyte cell cultures.