Cedarwood oil – a versatile essence for many ailments

Cedarwood essential oil is extracted from the bark, leaves and wood of the cedar tree. It contains many valuable compounds found in Atlas and Himalayan cedars. The properties of cedarwood oil can rightly be described as truly versatile. It is one of the most popular oils in natural cosmetics, massage and, in particular, aromatherapy, due to its multitude of beneficial qualities.

Cedarwood oil – what is the story behind it?

Today, cedar trees have, unfortunately, become a rarity – in contrast to distant antiquity. Cedar wood was an important material for making furniture and ships, as well as an ingredient in jewellery. It was also used to impregnate papyrus scrolls, and in ancient Egypt it was employed in the embalming of deceased pharaohs and priests. Thanks to its scent, which is unique on a global scale and found nowhere else, it is now a popular ingredient in perfumes and cosmetics.

Cedarwood oil has been used for millennia by a variety of cultures, including communities as far removed from Europe as the Native Americans and the Tibetans, who used the oil to treat minor ailments such as coughs and hiccups, as well as more serious illnesses.

In ancient Egypt, the discovery of cedarwood oil’s antimicrobial and insecticidal properties made it a valuable raw material in mummification procedures. In these and other communities, cedarwood was known for its ability to relax the body and mind, making it ideal for use during religious ceremonies and rituals.

Production method – how is cedarwood essential oil extracted?

Cedarwood essential oil is distilled using steam. The bark, wood and leaves are chopped up and then fed into a special distillation unit. The oil contained in these plant parts is extracted using steam and then separated from the condensed water – the hydrolate – in a special apparatus.

The oil is finally filtered and then stored in special, shaded barrels or bottled directly into dark glass bottles – which protect the oil’s valuable properties from sunlight.

The properties of cedarwood oil – what lies behind its effectiveness?

Cedarwood essential oil has numerous beneficial properties for the body’s general health, and above all for the skin and hair. As a result, cedarwood essential oil is a must-have for many enthusiasts of aromatherapy and natural cosmetics. Among its many properties, its antifungal, antiseptic, diuretic and calming effects stand out.

In addition, cedarwood essential oil has the following effects:

• Antiseptic
• Diuretics
• Antifungal
• Expectorants, cough suppressants
• Insecticides
• Sedatives
• Deodorising
• Circulation-promoting
• Anti-inflammatory
• Improves concentration
• Promotes a healthy metabolism
• Promotes hair growth and prevents hair loss
• Alleviates the symptoms of oily, acne-prone skin
• Has a toning effect

Given all these qualities, it is not hard to see why this essential oil forms the basis of most aromatherapy kits. Its benefits are not limited to health or skin and hair care. Natural cedarwood essential oil is, above all, safe, meaning it can also be used in preventative massages and relaxing baths.

Cedarwood oil for hair and skin – is it beneficial?

What factors determine the effectiveness of cedarwood oil for hair and skin? These include, amongst others,

• Protects oily skin –particularlyacne-prone skin. It tones the skin thanks to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties
• Promotes the healing of minor wounds –it isalso an excellent antiseptic, so it can be used without any problems to disinfect minor wounds
• Has a deodorising effect –it isan excellent natural deodorant, relaxing and with a pleasant woody scent
• It improves the condition of the hair –byconstricting blood vessels and promoting blood circulation, it stimulates the hair follicles, increasing circulation and thereby promoting hair growth. At the same time, it slows down hair loss. As a result, it can be used to treat various types of alopecia
• Improves the condition of the scalp – cedarwood essentialoilreduces dryness and flaking of the scalp. It also prevents problems associated with dry dandruff
• Tones the skin –it isan effective skin-toning agent. Due to its properties, cedar is also an excellent natural anti-cellulite remedy

Cedarwood oil in aromatherapy – how to use it effectively?

How can we use cedarwood oil effectively in aromatherapy? Simply add a few drops of essential oil (between 10 and 20) toa diffuser. It is well known that deeply inhaling its aroma promotes relaxed breathing and helps you fall asleep. In addition, the oil can be added to an attractive aroma diffuser, mixed with water in a ratio of 5–6 ml of oil to 50 ml of water.

If you’re travelling, there’s nothing to stop you using it on the go! Simply rub 2 to 3 drops of the oil vigorously into the inside of your wrists, then bring them close to your nose and inhale for 2 minutes. Another option is to apply the same number of drops to a handkerchief and use it whenever you feel tense or anxious.

Bear in mind that aromatherapy sessions with cedarwood oil should last between 10 and 15 minutes. It is also important to use the right number of drops and to mix them with a water-based carrier. This ensures the aroma isn’t too intense, whilst the session itself offers a range of health benefits.

What does cedarwood oil smell like?

Widely used in aromatherapy, cedarwood essential oil is known for its sweet, woody scent. It has been described as warming, comforting and calming, naturally promoting relaxation throughout the body.

The invigorating aroma of cedarwood oil helps to freshen and deodorise indoor spaces, whilst repelling insects. Furthermore, its antifungal properties help prevent the growth of fungi and mould. Indeed, scientific studies have shown that its invigorating note boosts the activity of the central nervous system, whilst its calming properties relax the body. The combination of these qualities helps improve concentration whilst reducing hyperactivity.

The unique aroma of cedarwood essential oil alleviates harmful stress and is able to relieve tension, which in turn promotes physical rest and helps to clear the mind. Used in the evenings, it encourages sleep, and the sleep itself is extremely restorative and rejuvenating, supporting the homeostasis of the entire body.

Cedarwood essential oil – what does it blend best with?

If you wish to enhance the benefits of cedarwood oil, it is worth combining it with any of the following natural essential oils to create a blend that is both aromatic and health-promoting:

• Lavender essential oil
• Frankincense essential oil
• Rosemary essential oil
• Bergamot essential oil
• Lemonorlimeessential oil
• Jasmine essential oil

When combined in this way, the oils can also be used as part of a relaxing massage, not just for aromatherapy. Simply dilute the cedarwood oil and any other essential oil with a carrier oil (jojoba oil, olive oil), then massage it into the chest or throat.

Essential oil blends can also be added to a warm bath, and if both oils are beneficial for the condition of your hair, you can dilute them in shampoo and conditioner before rinsing them out in the shower.

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