Characteristics of cherry

The cherry fruit is produced by the cherry tree (Prunus avium), which belongs to the family of deciduous, fruit-bearing trees. Its height reaches up to ten meters and its lifespan is about sixty years.
It has large green leaves and a smooth grey trunk. In spring, before the leaves appear, large, white, fragrant flowers bloom, and in the summer months it bears fruit. The cherry tree is cultivated for its fruit but also for its wood, which is used for making furniture.
The tree is related to the sour cherry and is thought to originate from the area near the Black Sea. As for the suitable climate for cherry cultivation, it is tolerant of cold and vulnerable to high temperatures and heavy rains.
Some of the many benefits of cherries are the reduction of cholesterol and their
anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial action.

History of cherry

Cherries originate from Asia Minor and it is likely that they were brought to Greece by birds carrying the fruit pits. The ancient Greeks were the first to cultivate the cherry tree. The first reference to cherry cultivation is found in the book by Theophrastus, a student of Aristotle, in the 3rd century BC, entitled “Enquiry into Plants”.
It is said that the Roman general Lucullus brought cultivated cherry trees from the region of Pontus to Rome, thus integrating the fruit into Roman culture, where it became one of the most popular fruits.
Cherry has also been an important fruit in countries outside Europe, one of which is Japan. In Japan, all parts of the tree are utilized and, in particular, the wood has been used to make Samurai swords. In the same country, the cherry blossom season is traditionally celebrated with a drink made from cherry blossoms.

Ingredients

Cherry essential oil from the kernel of the fruit obtained by cold pressing.

Chemical composition of cherry essential oil

Squalene, linoleic (39.1–46.2%), oleic acid (25.4–41.0%), phenols, α-eleostearic acid (8.00–15.62%), palmitic acid (5.45–7.41%), stearic acid (2.49–3.17%).

Instructions for use

- In 100 ml of evening primrose or Argan carrier oil, add 5–7 drops of cherry oil for a deeply moisturizing massage. - Add a few drops to an oil burner to enjoy a fresh and cool scent in your space. - Pour a few drops of cherry essential oil into a basin of warm water for a relaxing foot bath. - Add a few drops of cherry to a lotion and apply to the body for better hydration and a sweet fragrance. - Make soaps, candles and incense sticks using the wonderful aroma of cherry essential oil. - Blends well with vanilla, cinnamon, mint, apricot and peach essential oils.

Chinese medicine

Cherries, or Yu Li Ren as they are called in TCM, are used in various ways to clear the meridians of the small and large intestine, the spleen and the lungs. Massage with almond oil and cherry essential oil calms the spirit, expels excess fluids, revitalizes the heart and reduces inflammation.

Useful tips

- The use of essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy, breastfeeding and by young children.
- Avoid direct contact with skin, eyes and mouth.
- Always use essential oils dissolved in a base oil or other catalyst.