Oxicedro (Juniperus oxycedrus)

The oxicedro is a shrub that rarely exceed 2 m. height, except where it grows freely. Usually, if you do not have essential knowledge, it is easy to confuse with the juniper. However, in the beam of the leaflets observed oxicedro white 2 bands separated by a green line, while the juniper has a single band. The Galbula of this species is greater than that of juniper and presents a reddish color characteristic, very different from the blue-black juniper Galbula. It breeds from all regions of the Mediterranean basin and in the dry sunny slopes of our mountains. This shrub usually live with the oak and Aleppo pine.

FLOWERING

It blooms in spring. Collection of interested in what is known as oil or micron each obtained by dry distillation of wood oxicedro. For this distillation are used logs and large branches.

APPLICATIONS

The oil composition of each varies greatly according to their place of origin. Generally consists of a large amount of phenolic resin and varied as guaiacol, the Ethylguaiacol and cresol. This composition gives every interesting oil antiseptic and fungicidal properties. It is especially appropriate in external use against scabies, lice, psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. Parasiticide This property was known in antiquity: its resin is wonderful properties ascribed to kill worms and oil are used to kill the nits and lice. Currently, oil from every part of various preparations for external use, mostly for treating skin diseases. Due to advances in science, there is increasing varieties of dermatological preparations in the market, so as micron preparations will become obsolete. Moreover, there is still no cure for the diseases like psoriasis, only certain medications that reduce symptoms.

ADMINISTRATION

As we mentioned before, there are ointments, liniments, shampoos, lotions, etc.. most of which contain, along with other components, 5% of oil each. Usually performed once daily for a while, resting after a further period not to damage the skin too.

SUMMARY

FAMILY: Cupressaceae
HABITAT: Mediterranean
FLOWERING: Spring
PART USED: Each or juniper oil
CASTILIAN: Cada
CATALAN: Cádec

USES

Strong Antiseptic, Moderate parasiticide, Moderate antipsoriatic.