HINOKI is a valuable species of tree that grows primarily on the West Coast and in Asia. Known as Port Orford Cedar (Chamaecyparis Lawsoniana) in this country, it is a lemon-scented, light-colored wood with a rich, straight grain, and is highly rot resistant.
In Asia, it is called HINOKI and for centuries has been considered the preferred material for building palaces, temples, shrines and bath environments. It is Japan's most prized softwood, and is the wood from which the late Emperor's casket and funeral shrine were made.
Tests indicate Hinoki's effectiveness in aromatherpy to reduce stress. According to Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, founder of the Pacific Institute of Aromatherapy, research indicates the wood is very gentle on the body and skin, unlike other wood oils such as Juniper, Pine and Red Cedar, which have a high degree of terpene hydrocarbon and are known for causing skin irritations and female problems. In fact, Hinoki oil has been used for treating skin problems, i.e. minor skin irritations, rashes, cuts and abrasions, etc.
Dr. Schnaubelt found that the most prominent components in Hinoki are known for their ability to kill bacteria, viruses and viral infections, and fungus, and are used as a general and nerve tonic and to fight off or cure infections. Two strong properties found in Hinoki have a relaxing and decongestant effect and are excellent for stuffy noses, sinus congestion, chest congestion, respiratory conditions, and breathing problems like asthma as well as relief of tension and stress.
To those familiar with Japanese culture, Hinoki's wonderful scent alone conjurs images of opulent luxury and wealth, of Japan's ancient glory. As the favored material of the great Daimyo, and symbolic of their wealth and power, only they enjoyed the Hinoki bath and luxuriated in rich mineral oils released from the wood by hot bath water.
In Japan, no daily ritual has been more uniquely important to the individual's well-being than the bath upon returning home in the evening. It is a time of purification and relaxation from the tensions of the modern world. It is a spiritual moment. It is pure. It is best if it is Hinoki.
Oregon Hinoki Products, Inc., (OHP), located in Molalla, Oregon, was started in 1992 to capitalize on an underutilized resource and manufacture handcrafted specialty items. OHP products were highlighted in the January, 1996 issue of Sunset Magazine in a story entitled "The Changing Western Home", and most recently in House & Garden(May, 1998) and Interior Design(July, 2000) magazines.
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