Cedarwood is in the pine family of essential oils. It is mentioned five times in Leviticus 14:4, 6, 49, 51, 52 and again in Numbers-
“The priests shall take cedarwood, hyssop, and crimson material, and throw them into the fire in which the heifer is burning.” Numbers 19:6.
The ancient oil used by the Egyptians was actually Cedrus libani. Cedrus atlantica is a close relative of the biblical cedars of Lebanon which is not available today since the cedars of Lebanon are an endangered species. Solomon had most of the cedars of Lebanon cut down to build his palace and temple. The oil from the Lebanon cedar was used by the ancient Egyptians for embalming purposes, cosmetics, skin care and perfumery. Cedarwood was used in ritual purification after touching anything “unclean.” It was also used in various medicines for its calming effects. Cedarwood was probably the first oil to be obtained by distillation. Both cedarwood and sandalwood were used similarly to cleanse lepers and evil spirits. The Egyptians and Sumerians were using this oil over 5,000 years ago for embalming, as a disinfectant and for other medicinal purposes. For biblical people, this oil symbolized abundance, fertility and spiritual strength. It is still used as a temple incense by the Tibetans and is employed in their traditional medicine.
How Can We Use Cedarwood Oil for Healing Today?
Cedarwood is a great insect repellent-especially for mosquitoes and fleas. It is good for hair loss, tuberculosis, bronchitis, gonorrhea, and skin disorders. It is helpful as a decongestant for the respiratory system and is helpful for cystitis.Cedarwood is used for cellulite and to improve circulation and joint mobility in arthritis and rheumatism. It helps relieve nervous tension and stress related conditions. It can enhance deep sleep and emotional releases. Cedarwood can clear the mind and brain and has a calming effect on the whole person. It’s primary effect is anti-bacterial and for hair loss.
How Can We Use Cedarwood for our own Healing Today?
Cedarwood can be be diffused as well as used topically, and as incense. It can be applied to the healer’s hands and run through the field for general support, strength and endurance. It can be applied topically to the energy centers, brow, temples, soles of the feet. Cedarwood is non-toxic and non-irritating.
Author:Linda Lee Smith
Would you like to discover more about the healing abilities of cedarwood oil? Educational programs on aromatherapy will assist you in learning how to use essential oils safely. The Institute of Spiritual Healing & Aromatherapy offers such programs.
By going to my web site: http://www.ISHAhealing.com and signing up for our free monthly newsletter you can receive a free gift: 5 Monographs on Biblical Oils
I also invite you to discover how to use cedarwood oil through the art of aromatherapy – http://www.ISHAaromatherapy.com
Read more about aromatherapy and Cedarwood oil in my book: Healing Oils Healing Hands, Discovering the Power of Prayer, Hands On Healing and Anointing. You can find it on my web site at http://www.ISHAhealing.com/HealingStore/HealingBooks/tabid/356/Default.aspx
From Linda L. Smith, Director of the Institute of Spiritual Healing & Aromatherapy, Inc.
