The tree of Cedarwood is native to North America and grows up to 30 meters (100 feet) and ages up to 1,000 years. This oil is from the juniper family and is quite different from the Himalayan cedar. It is the smell people associate with cedar chests. Cedarwood oil`s fragrance is wonderful for cleansing the atmosphere in a room; also a disinfectant for urinary tract infections, but should be avoided in acute kidney infections. It is also wonderful for sore joints and muscles; it has multiple uses for oily skin and acne and helps in provoking an overdue menstrual cycle. Cedrus libani or Lebanon cedar, from which the first essential oil was extracted, is very scarce due to over use.
Cedarwood oil has a heating and drying energy that is often used as antiseptic, expectorant, diuretic, nervine, rejuvenating catalyst. It also mixes well with
Juniper oil, Camphor oil, Eucalyptus oil, Sandalwood oil, Patchouli oil, Vetiver oil and
Citronella oil. However, since it contains contains Thujon, it should not be taken orally in high doses, since it can irritate the central nervous system. It should also not be taken by pregnant ladies.
Uses of Cedarwood Oil
In soap perfumery.
As mosquito-repellent, disinfectant, insecticide, cleansers.
In compresses, teas, baths, massage oil, inhalations.
(Last Updated on : 27/10/2009)
