The aromatic oil from the evergreen cedar tree has been used by various cultures around the world for centuries. Each civilization has their unique applications for the woodsy essential oil. Traditionally, Native Americans used it for respiratory infections. The ancient Egyptians utilized cedarwood essential oil for embalming. The people of the Middle East have employed it for various practices since Biblical times, and Tibetan monks use it today as incense and to help in meditations.
The cedar tree is a slow-growing evergreen tree with reddish heartwood and brown cones that can get up to 108 feet high and can have a trunk diameter of over 5 feet! Cedars are native to North America, especially the Rocky Mountain regions. Its strongly aromatic wood contains a high percentage of essential oil. The essential oil is extracted by steam distillation from the timber waste, sawdust, shavings, and the like. The pale yellow or orange oily liquid has a mild, sweet balsamic scent.
The cedarwood scent blends well with neroli, jasmine, juniper, chamomile, geranium, lavender, frankincense, ylang ylang, rosewood, vetiver, rose, and patchouli. Its antiseptic properties make it a popular choice for treating acne, oily skin, and dandruff. As a diuretic, it benefits the urinary track system. Cedarwood stimulates the circulation to relax the nervous system. It is also known to have a tonic effect on the entire body. On an emotional level, cedarwood oil helps to relieve nervous tension and stress-related conditions, dispel gloomy thoughts, anxiety, and fears.
Today, cedarwood essential oil is used extensively as a fixative in perfumery, particularly in soap making. It is also used in room sprays, disinfectants, and other household products. It is an excellent insect repellent and was once used with citronella as a commercial insecticide.
Used externally, cedarwood oil is relatively non-toxic but can cause acute local irritation and sensitivity in some people. If applying to your skin always perform a patch test. As with all essential oils, never use them undiluted. Do not take internally and keep away from children.
Antidandruff Treatment Recipe:
Add 6 drops cedarwood, 6 drops rosemary, and 4 drops cypress essential oils to 1 1/2 fluid ounces (50 mL) olive oil. Massage into the scalp with your fingertips, cover, and leave overnight (if possible). Shampoo thoroughly the following morning. Use half of the recipe for children.
Author:Karen Prickett
Karen Prickett is an expert in the soap making and candle making industry. With over 11 years of small business ownership behind her, Karen is also an active member of the IGCA Guild and Handcrafted Soap Makers Guild. For more information on products, recipes and instructions visit http://www.nuscentscandle.com
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