The wood chips or sawdust of the cedar tree are used to create cedarwood essential oil through steam distillation. Several methods like cold pressing and carbon dioxide distillation can be used to extract this essential oil. In this article we will analyze the cedarwood essential oil benefits and uses.
There are numerous varieties of cedar trees, and each has a unique essential oil. Different essential oils can be utilised for various purposes since essential oils’ chemical constituents vary.
Examples of cedar essential oils are:
- Atlas cedarwood, Cedrus atlantica
- Chinese cedarwood, Chamaecyparis funebris or Cupressus funebris
- Himalayan cedarwood, Cedrus deodara
- Port Orford cedarwood, Chamaecyparis lawsoniana
- Texas cedarwood, Juniperus ashei or J. mexicana
- Virginian cedarwood, J. virginiana
History of Cedarwood Essential Oil
Throughout history, different cultures, including Native American and Tibetan groups, have utilised cedarwood essential oil to treat conditions that vary from minor aches, such as coughs and hiccups, to more serious diseases. Because of its antibacterial and antiparasitic qualities, cedarwood oil was highly valued in Ancient Egypt for use in mummification operations. The ability of cedarwood to calm the body and mind made it popular in these and other countries for use in religious rituals and spiritual exercises including group prayer and solitary meditation which is still in use until today.
It is cherished among Hindus as a sacred tree and is mentioned in several Hindu myths. Being a source of protection, insight, and prosperity, cedars, an essential oil, are frequently mentioned in the Bible.
Many researchers have examined the possible health and aesthetic benefits of cedarwood oil and its constituent parts. The constitution of the oil depends on the tree from which it is extracted, which may have an impact on how valuable the oil is.
Benefits of Cedarwood Essential Oil
1. Hair Growth
Alopecia areata is a condition that results in hair loss by leading the immune system to assault hair follicles. One of the many essential oils that could promote hair development is cedarwood.
According to research published in Archives of Dermatology, when given a daily scalp massage with cedarwood, thyme, rosemary, and lavender essential oils, along with a carrier oil, up to 44% of participants with alopecia areata experienced considerable hair growth. For seven months, this mixture was applied straight to the scalp.
2. Promotes Sleep
In aromatherapy, cedarwood oil can calm the mind and relax the body. In order to encourage sleep and improve the quality of that sleep, you can diffuse it at night. A restful night’s sleep enhances general wellness. Also, it benefits those who are feeling stressed or depressed.
Cedarwood oil may have sedative properties when used as an aromatherapy treatment, making it advantageous for treating sporadic insomnia. Consider using cedarwood oil as an aromatherapy remedy or incorporate a few drops into a hot bath just before night.
3. Relieves Anxiety
In a study published in the Journal Physiology and Behavior, cedrol, a component of cedarwood oil, had a calming effect on mood, making it useful for anxiety and lowering stress.
4. Helps with Acne
Seborrhea is one of the issues that can result from malfunctioning sebaceous glands. Besides increased sebum secretion, it also leads to infection. Due to the oil’s anti-inflammatory characteristics, the infection can be treated and the secretion of serum controlled. You can use cedarwood oil as an additional treatment for acne, according to a case report that was published in 2016 in the Journal for Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
Uses of Cedarwood Essential Oil
For Relaxation
Cedarwood oil is commonly used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress. It has a warm, woodsy scent that is grounding and calming.
For Acne
Use cedarwood oil diluted in a light carrier oil, a regular face cleanser, or a moisturiser, like a face cream or body lotion, to soothe spots, lessen their appearance, and lower your risk of developing new outbreaks. By using it in these combinations, you can help the skin become clean and oil-free, strengthen it against bacteria, get rid of infections, and reduce irritation and peeling. Additionally, to treat acne in challenging-to-reach places, you can dilute cedarwood oil in a carrier oil and then apply it to a warm bath.
For Hair Loss
Cedarwood essential oil can be diluted in a standard shampoo and conditioner to help prevent hair loss naturally. An alternative is to dilute a few drops in a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and massage the scalp for a while. You can apply this mixture to the scalp as a mask and keep it on for at least 30 minutes before removing it in the shower.
Final Thoughts
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency typically recognises cedarwood oil as safe when used topically as an insecticide or food additive. Cedarwood oil rarely causes skin irritation, according to reports.
Before applying essential oils topically, always dilute them with a carrier oil. Before using the oil, you should always conduct a patch test to be sure it won’t bother your skin. Lastly, cedarwood oil can be harmful if swallowed, just like all other essential oils.
To learn more about cedarwood essential oil benefits you can check this article and Healthline. You can also check Aromavibes for a wide range of essential oils!