Cedarwood – Essential Oil
Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica)
Those who have analytical minds tend to suffer from the effects of stress, which can lead to tension, and this oil is great at relieving these states. It has been claimed to have aphrodisiac properties, and it certainly has a tonic and stimulating effect on the body. Nervousness associated with sexual tension or anticipation can be reduced when using this oil, so the claim may be based in some truth. The Egyptians used this oil in the mummification process, and Tibetan people use it in their medicine. The oil is used in incense and often in after-shaves and cosmetic preparations.
Uses include:
Cystitis / vaginal infections
Bronchitis / respiratory problems
Acne
Nervous tension / stress
Dandruff
Cautions
Use in low concentrations or it may irritate skin.
Do not use on babies or children under the age of 12 years old.
Do not use when pregnant.
Cystitis / vaginal infections
Before using an essential oil, first establish the reason behind infection. The oil is antiseptic, and is therefore useful for some conditions.
Directions for use
Bath: Add up to 5 drops of pure essential oil to a bath of water and lie back and relax.
Massage: Mix 20 ml of carrier oil (sweet almond, grapeseed) to 10 drops of pure essential oil.
Bronchitis / respiratory problems
This oil is mucolytic and therefore breaks down mucous.
Directions for use
Bath: Add up to 5 drops to bath of water and lie back and relax.
Oil burners: Sprinkle up to 5 drops of pure essential oil onto water and light burner.
Inhalation: Boil 1 litre of water and pour into a bowl, add up to 10 drops of pure essential oil, place a towel over your head and allow steam to rise and inhale.
Handkerchief: Put a couple of drops of pure essential oil onto a tissue or handkerchief and inhale as and when required.
Massage: Mix 20 ml of carrier oil (sweet almond, grapeseed) to 10 drops of pure essential oil.
Oil burners: Sprinkle up to 5 drops of pure essential oil onto water and light burner.
Acne
Antiseptic and astringent properties make it beneficial in the treatment of this skin condition.
Directions for use
Compress: Add 1-2 drops of pure essential oil to 1 litre of warm water. Lay sterile material on the surface of the water thus attracting a film of oil onto the cloth. Apply the material onto the affected area and leave for 10 minutes. Repeat daily.
Facial Massage: Mix 1 drop of pure essential oil to 2 teaspoons of almond or grape seed oil, or any other carrier oil and rub into face.
Inhalation: Boil 1 litre of water and pour into a bowl, add up to 10 drops of pure essential oil, place a towel over your head and allow steam to rise onto face. Do not do this if the skin is very sore as the steam may ‘burn’ already painful skin.
Nervous tension / stress
Directions for use
Bath: Add up to 5 drops of pure essential oil to a bath of water and lie back and relax.
Handkerchief: Put a couple of drops of pure essential oil onto a tissue or handkerchief and inhale as and when required.
Massage: Mix 20 ml of carrier oil (sweet almond, grapeseed) to 10 drops of pure essential oil.
Oil burners: Sprinkle up to 5 drops of pure essential oil onto water and light burner.
Dandruff
Cedarwood oil is an antiseptic.
Directions for use
Final rinse: Add 1-2 drops of pure essential cedarwood oil to 1 litre of warm water. Use as final rinse on hair.
Further Information
Where grown: Only use oil that comes from cedar atlantica, a tree native to Morocco, where it grows extensively.
Parts used and method of extraction: The oil is extracted from wood chippings and sawdust by steam distillation.
Colour and smell: It is a thick yellow oil with a hint of green, with a warm, woody, sweet smell. It has a high concentration of essential oils making it very aromatic.
Active Ingredients: Several terpenic hydrocarbons, cedrol, cadinene, and other sesquiterpenes.
Properties: Powerful antiseptic, mild astringent.
Mixes well with: Citrus oils such as lemon or neroli. Combinations with orange, rose, geranium, and juniper.