Death

• Cypress trees historically have been associated with death. Ancients thought it an honor to be buried a casket of cypress wood, and the wood has been used for the construction of coffins in many countries. Egyptians often used cypress wood for their mummy cases and the Greeks placed the ashes of those who died in service to their country in containers formed from the cypress tree. Cemetery owners once felt that the fragrance would help hide the scent of death, which led to the modern Turkish practice of planting a cypress tree at either end of a grave.
  
  

Healing

• Cypress wood emits a fragrance that Oriental physicians thought to have healing powers. Physicians frequently sent patients with lung disorders and difficulty breathing to the isle of Crete, where cypress trees grow.
  
  

Uses

• According to the website 2020site.org, cypress trees have had many uses over the years. The wood from cypress trees has been used for the manufacture of utensils, harps and storage chests. Organ pipes and essential oils were also made from cypress wood.