Litsea Cubeba (May Chang) Oil

What is Litsea Cubeba (May Chang) Oil?

Litsea cubeba oil, also called May Chang oil, derives from the small, unripe berries of the Litsea cubeba tree, a plant native to tropical regions of China and Southeast Asia belonging to the Lauraceae family. This volatile essential oil is obtained through steam distillation of the fruit peel, yielding a pale yellow liquid rich in monoterpenes, predominantly citral—a mixture of geranial and neral isomers—alongside limonene and other trace compounds. In cosmetics, it primarily serves as a fragrance component, imparting a fresh, citrusy aroma reminiscent of lemongrass or lemon verbena. Functionally, it evaporates slowly to diffuse scent, blends with other ingredients to enhance olfactory profiles, and provides a subtle invigorating feel through its volatile nature, often featured in toners, cleansers, and lotions.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Fragrance ingredient
Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).
Masking
Reduces perception of unpleasant odors or tastes by neutralizing them or covering them with more acceptable sensory notes.
Tonic
Supports a light, toning after-feel—often combining mild astringency, refreshing solvents, and humectants—to prep skin and refine sensory finish.

Benefits

Delivers a natural, uplifting citrus fragrance that enhances product appeal.

Effectively covers base odors for a cleaner sensory experience.

Supports a refreshing, toning finish on skin after application.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals preferring natural, plant-derived scents in routines.
People with known sensitivity to citrus-derived fragrances.
Users of fragrance-forward products like toners or body mists.
Those prone to contact allergies from essential oil components.
Those seeking a light, invigorating sensory boost without heaviness.
Users of fragrance-free products for minimalistic skincare.

Safety Notes

  • Typically low hazard in cosmetic dilutions per safety assessments.
  • Contains potential allergens; suitable for most but patch testing advised.

Frequently Asked Questions about Litsea Cubeba (May Chang) Oil

What gives Litsea cubeba oil its scent?

Its high citral content provides a bright, lemony aroma similar to lemongrass.

Is it safe for daily skincare use?

Yes, at typical cosmetic levels, with low overall hazard ratings.

Can it cause skin reactions?

Rarely, but those sensitive to fragrances should test first.