Hinoki Cypress

I got to spend some time with this beautiful Hinoki Cypress the other day - wow, what a tree. It grows in a spot where I often walk, but I hadn't noticed it until recently. Funny how our vision and appreciation can change over time. Something that we might gloss over for years and years and not recognize as significant can, one day, shift and show itself as this glorious thing. An interesting lesson (for me) in paying attention...and acknowledging the timing of these "reveals." I think things often appear to us where we're ready to see them.

The Hinoki Cypress is native to Japan where it's revered as a sacred tree. It's used in Shinto ceremonies and purification rituals and is thought to support spirituality and longevity.

I was able to make the essence from tiny male cones which you can see pretty well in pic #2. Every time I touched them, they released clouds of pollen...a sign they're about perfect for essence-making. After I got the essence started, I ducked under the branches and hung out in a camouflaged grotto close to the trunk. Next time you're feeling stressed, I highly recommend finding a spot like this - there's something so calming about being surrounded on all sides by a tree cascade. Hemlocks are great. Copper Beech. Weeping Willow. Any tree that drapes.

I'll be adding this Hinoki Cypress to the research roster. If you're interested in sampling it, send me a note! I'll mail you a free bottle in exchange for feedback.