Copaiba oil is a resin that is extracted from the Copaifera officinalis tree. It contains anti-inflammatory, healing, analgesic and expectorant properties, and can therefore be used to heal wounds, relieve coughs and soothe arthritis symptoms.
In addition, copaiba oil is often used in many anti-inflammatory and healing creams, as well as lotions, dandruff shampoo, acne products, soaps and genital hygiene products.
Copaiba oil can be purchased at pharmacies or natural health stores in capsule form or as an essential oil. Its use should be directed by a doctor or health care professional who is experienced in medicinal plants.
Health benefits
Copaiba oil can be indicated for the treatment of:
- Wound healing and disinfection
- Cough, bronchitis, flu and colds
- Diarrhea or hemorrhoids
- Cystitis or infection in the kidneys or urethra
- Skin problems such as psoriasis or eczema
- Gastritis, gastrointestinal ulcers or H. pylori infection
- Urticaria or fungal skin infections
- Rheumatoid arthritis or tendonitis
Copaiba oil can also be used to combat infections that are transmitted sexually, and be particularly effective against genital herpes and syphilis.
Furthermore, some studies also indicate that copaiba oil has properties that have been shown to be effective in helping to treat different types of cancer and tuberculosis. However, more studies are still needed to confirm these properties.
Although it has many health benefits, copaiba oil should not replace and prescribed medical treatment. It should be used as directed by a doctor or herbalist.
Properties of copaiba oil
Copaiba oil has healing, antiseptic, antibacterial, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, analgesic, antirheumatic and antidiarrheal properties. These properties are made possible due to the substances present in its composition, such as beta-caryophyllene and beta-bisabolene.
How to take
Copaiba oil can be used in the form of an essential oil or in capsules.
The main ways to use copaiba oil are:
1. Copaiba oil (for oral use)
Copaiba essential oil can be used orally by adults to help with digestive and respiratory problems or strengthen the immune system, and should only be used under the guidance of a doctor or herbalist.
Ingredients
- 1 drop of copaiba essential oil
- 1 glass of water, juice or 1 cup of tea
Directions
Add a drop of oil to a glass of water, juice or tea, and drink once a day.
2. Copaiba oil (for external use)
Copaiba essential oil can be used to help treat skin problems, such as psoriasis, dermatitis, disinfection and healing of wounds or fungal skin infections.
Ingredients
- 1 or 2 drops of copaiba essential oil
- 1 or 2 tablespoons of a carrier oil, such as almond oil or coconut oil
Directions
In a clean and dry container, place the drops of copaiba essential oil and vegetable carrier oil and stir. Apply the mixture to the area of skin to be treated, once a day, massaging gently until the oil is completely absorbed.
Before using copaiba essential oil, you should perform an allergy test. Preparing a testing mixture by combining 1 drop of essential oil with 1 teaspoon of carrier oil. Apply it to the back of the hand or the crook of the elbow.
Wait 24 hours and, if during this period the skin becomes red or irritated, you should avoid using copaiba essential oil.
3. Copaiba oil (for inhalation)
Copaiba essential oil can be used for inhaled to help relieve coughs, bronchitis, flu or colds.
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 drops of copaiba essential oil
- 1 liter of water
Directions
Boil the water, remove from heat, and pour into a basin. Then add the drops of copaiba essential oil.
Cover your head with an unfolded towel, so that it also covers the container containing the copaiba essential oil solution. Tilt your head over the container and inhale the steam as deeply as possible for up to 10 minutes, once a day.
Using a towel towel helps maintain the vapor for longer. You should be careful not to bring your face too close to the copaiba vapor to avoid burning your face.
When finished, it is important to wipe your face with a damp, cold towel or wash your face under running water.
4. Copaiba oil capsules
Copaiba oil capsules should be taken orally, and are advised only for use by adults. They can be used to help treat respiratory or urinary diseases.
The normally recommended doses are 1 capsule of 250 mg of copaiba oil, 1 to 2 times a day, or as directed by your doctor or herbalist.
Possible side effects
Copaiba oil is safe for the majority of adults when consumed orally or applied topically within the recommende doses. Excess use, however, can lead to symptoms like stomach aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, insomnia, redness and itching.
Contraindications for use
Copaiba oil should not be used by children, pregnant women or breastfeeding women. It should also be avoided by anyone with gastrointestinal issues.