Various methods can be used to extract cedarwood essential oil from different parts of cedar trees. It finds its use in various products, including but not limited to, insect repellent, cologne, shampoo, and deodorant.
When used in aromatherapy, cedarwood essential oil deodorizes indoor environments, repels insects, prevents mildew development, improves cerebral activity, relaxes the body, enhances concentration, decreases hyperactivity. Reduces harmful stress, eases tension, clears the mind, and encourages quality sleep.
However, When used cosmetically, it soothes skin irritation, inflammation, redness, itchiness, dryness, and acne-causing bacteria while guarding against environmental pollutants, toxins, and aging. When used for hair. It cleanses, enhances scalp circulation, tightens follicles, stimulates healthy growth, reduces thinning and hair loss.
Medically, cedarwood essential oil protects against harmful bacteria, facilitates wound-healing, addresses discomforts of muscle aches, joint pain, stiffness, soothes coughs, spasms, supports organ health, regulates menstruation, and stimulates circulation.
The distinct essential oil of cedarwood is obtained from different species of cedar trees. It contains several active constituents such as Alpha Cedrene, Beta Cedrene, Thujopsene, Cedrol, Widdrol, and a group of Sesquiterpenes that provide it with various properties. Such as antiseptic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, diuretic, and insecticidal.
Massage therapists and aromatherapists use cedarwood essential oil widely to treat a range of conditions, including skin problems, respiratory ailments, anxiety, stress-related conditions, kidney problems, and inflammatory issues like arthritis. The cedarwood essential oil has a rich history of use in ancient cultures as medicine, perfume, and even in religious ceremonies and rituals.
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History Of Cedarwood Oil
The Cedar tree’s wood undergoes steam distillation to produce Cedarwood Essential Oil. Different species of the Cedar tree, such as Cedrus atlantica, Cedrus deodara, Juniperus mexicana, and Juniperus virginiana, also known as Atlas, Himalayan, Texan, and Virginian Cedarwood, respectively, can be used for this purpose.
Various cultures throughout history, including Native American and Tibetan communities, have utilized Cedarwood Essential Oil to address a range of ailments, from minor discomforts like coughs and hiccups to more severe illnesses. Ancient Egyptians valued Cedarwood Oil for its antimicrobial and insecticidal properties, which made it useful in mummifying procedures. Furthermore, Cedarwood has gained recognition for its capacity to calm the body and mind. Which makes it suitable for utilization in spiritual practices and religious ceremonies like communal prayer and personal meditation. These days, Cedarwood Essential Oil is still used for comparable purposes, such as cosmetic uses.
This article highlights the safe uses, therapeutic properties, and topical and medicinal benefits of Cedarwood Essential Oil.
Types of Cedarwood Essential Oil
Cedarwood essential oil has several types, each with its unique set of benefits. Atlas cedarwood is effective in treating various conditions including acne, respiratory problems, cough, dandruff, joint inflammation, hair loss, scalp disorders, cellulite, chest infections, anxiety, and stress.
Virginian cedarwood essential oil is reputed for its ability to alleviate stress, anxiety, and nervousness, as well as treat acne, itching, and redness. Chinese cedarwood relieves muscle pain and aches, and Himalayan cedarwood functions as a stimulant and antiseptic.
However, pregnant women should avoid this type of oil as it can interact with hormones. Texas cedarwood treats skin, hair, and circulatory issues, strengthens immunity, and wards off negative emotions. Each type of cedarwood essential oil has its method of extraction, plant part, country of origin, color, aroma, and believed properties.
Cedarwood Oil Benefits
Analyzing the potential health and beauty benefits of cedarwood oil and its components has been a subject of interest in both animal and human studies.
The various components found in the oil, such as cedrine, cedrol, and thujopsene, possess diverse properties like antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, diuretic, insecticidal, and antifungal.
The composition of the oil is dependent on the type of tree it is derived from, which determines its usefulness for specific conditions.
Cedarwood Oil For Hair Loss
Oil like Cedarwood oil, along with lavender and rosemary oils, has been tested in a trial for alopecia, a condition that leads to hair loss. The study found that these oils helped with hair growth more than just a carrier oil alone.
A small study from 1998 reported that a daily scalp massage with cedarwood, thyme, rosemary, and lavender essential oils mixed with a carrier oil helped people with alopecia areata experience significant hair growth over a seven-month period. Cedarwood oil can enhance hair growth by carrying out multiple actions such as cleansing the scalp, removing excess oil, dirt, and dandruff, improving scalp circulation, and tightening the follicles.
It can reduce hair loss and prevent thinning. To obtain these benefits, one can dilute cedarwood oil in regular shampoo and conditioner or a carrier oil like coconut oil, and massage it into the scalp.
Leave the blend on the scalp for at least 30 minutes like a mask before washing it off in the shower. You can also combine cedarwood oil with other essential oils such as thyme, lavender, or rosemary to enhance its efficacy in promoting new hair growth and giving the hair a fuller appearance.
Cedarwood Oil For Scalp Conditions
To reduce and soothe an itchy, flaking scalp, a mixture of cedarwood oil and a carrier oil can be massaged onto the scalp. This can be particularly beneficial for treating conditions like dandruff and scalp eczema. Another option is to add four to five drops of cedarwood oil directly into your shampoo or conditioner to help alleviate scalp conditions.
Cedarwood Oil For Skin
The Cedarwood oil has properties that make it useful for treating various skin conditions. Including acne, eczema, and irritated skin. It has anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties that help reduce inflammation, fight off bacteria and fungi, and soothe skin irritation.
A case study has shown that adding cedarwood oil to traditional acne treatments can help alleviate stubborn breakouts. To use cedarwood oil as an acne treatment, add 2-3 drops to 5 teaspoons of a noncomedogenic carrier oil and apply it to the skin for 20 minutes once or twice a week, or add it to a facial scrub.
In addition to its other benefits, cedarwood oil may aid in reducing the visibility of scars. Addressing small injuries, mitigating pain associated with arthritis, and alleviating symptoms related to eczema.
When used in cosmetics, cedarwood essential oil can help purify the skin. Protect it from microbes and oxidative damage, and prevent or reduce breakouts. It also has a firming quality that helps reduce the signs of aging.
Moreover, cedarwood oil is recognized for its ability to aid in maintaining the well-being and activity of the brain, liver, and kidney. It is abundant in antioxidant properties that can help preserve the appearance of the skin, making it look healthy and youthful.
Cedarwood Essential Oil For Sleep
Using cedarwood oil as an aromatherapy treatment may provide beneficial effects in alleviating occasional insomnia due to its sedative qualities. One can experiment by incorporating cedarwood oil as an aromatherapy treatment or adding a few drops to a hot bath before going to bed.
The calming and grounding properties of cedarwood essential oil can positively affect a restless mind when used for sleep. Additionally, it has sedative effects that make falling asleep easier. To use cedarwood essential oil as a sleep aid. One can diffuse it in their room at night time or try using a linen spray for their pillow and sheets.
Another way to use it is through a massage with a drop or two of essential oil in a carrier oil after a warm bath to help one relax. Studies on animals found that inhaling cedrol. A compound found in cedarwood essential oil. Helped lengthen sleeping time, leading to better sleep.
Cedarwood Oil For Stress And Anxiety Relief
Cedarwood essential oil has a sweet, woody fragrance that promotes stress relief, calming properties that relax the body. And invigorating qualities that enhance concentration and decrease hyperactivity.
The oil has antifungal, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory properties and is effective in treating muscle aches, joint pain, respiratory ailments, and menstrual cramps. Cedarwood oil is also effective in regulating menstruation by stimulating circulation and reducing nausea and cramps.
Additionally, it has cosmetic benefits, including being an antioxidant, restorative, toning, and detoxifying agent. It can also be used as a pesticide against moths and ants. One study has found that it can improve acne that is resistant to treatment. Studies have shown that cedarwood oil exhibits antibiotic activity against some bacteria. Including Escherichia coli, although researchers are still conducting further research.
Promotes Hair Growth
Most oil like Cedarwood essential oil contains numerous bioactive constituents that provide a one-stop solution for various hair problems. It has anti-microbial properties that boost blood circulation in hair follicles and aid in collagen formation.
This oil effectively treats hair issues like dandruff, alopecia, and hair thinning. Additionally, regular use of the oil enhances hair texture, adds shine, and stimulates hair growth. It also helps to prevent hair fall and premature greying of hair by reducing stress levels.
To use cedarwood oil for hair care, add 2-3 drops of the oil to your regular coconut oil and massage your scalp well to promote blood circulation and hair growth. Alternatively, you can add cedarwood oil, rosemary oil. And lavender oil to your shampoo and conditioner to enhance hair growth. Massage your scalp thoroughly while shampooing to stimulate your hair follicles.
Relieves Pain And Inflammation
The Cedarwood essential oil has anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing properties that make it effective in treating arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. It works as a natural vasodilator, reducing pain. Muscle spasms, sore muscles, and headaches. Applying the oil directly to the site of the pain can reduce inflammation and joint stiffness.
In addition, studies on animals have shown that cedarwood oil can reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation.
It is also effective in providing relief from different types of spasms that affect the intestines, muscles, heart, respiratory system, and nerves. It is especially useful for people who experience respiratory seizures, restless leg syndrome, asthma, and other spasmodic conditions. As it has soothing properties.
Remedies Respiratory Anomalies
It is a very useful oil, The Cedarwood essential oil contains many bioactive compounds. As well as antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant properties. Which are important for treating upper respiratory tract illnesses such as the common cold, cough, sinus infections, and flu symptoms. The oil can reduce chest and nasal congestion, eliminate excess catarrh deposits, and halt nasal discharge. In addition, cedarwood oil is helpful in treating sore throat, pharyngitis, bronchitis, and asthma.
Stimulates Menstrual Flow
It can be diluted and used for many purposes Cedarwood essential oil has emmenagogue properties that aid in inducing menstruation in women with irregular menstrual cycles. Thereby regulating the flow. In addition, the oil has a positive impact on the hormonal functions of glands in the endocrine system. Which helps relieve symptoms associated with menstruation such as nausea, fatigue, and mood swings. Regular use of cedarwood essential oil can thus help in improving menstrual health in women.
Repels Insects
Yes, Cedarwood essential oil has abundant anti-microbial properties that make it an effective remedy for insect and bug problems. Insects can carry various viruses, bacteria. And microbes that can contaminate food and cause health issues ranging from rashes and itching to fever and even lethal infectious diseases.
To eliminate insects like mosquitoes, flies, and head lice, one can use cedarwood oil in vaporizers. The oil is safe for people, pets, including cats and dogs. And does not harm beneficial bugs like bees, butterflies, lacewings, mantids, and spiders. To deter fleas, beetles, houseflies, moths, mites, ants, ticks, and mosquitoes. A dilution of the oil can be sprayed around the house and garden.
Overall health
Only few oil like Cedarwood essential oil has a fragrance that can help alleviate stress and anxiety while soothing the mind and improving focus. Its sedative properties can also aid in getting a good night’s rest and relieving insomnia.
Applying the oil topically can alleviate pain and inflammation related to arthritis, as well as relieve cough, headaches, watery eyes, and stuffy nose. It also helps in relieving spasms associated with the intestine, muscles, heart, and nerves. And can offer relief for conditions such as restless leg syndrome, respiratory seizures, and asthma.
However, Cedarwood essential oil functions as a diuretic. Helping with conditions such as urinary tract infections, hypertension, arthritis, rheumatism, high blood pressure, and obesity. It also acts as an emmenagogue. Regulating menstruation and eliminating side effects like nausea, cramps, fatigue, and mood swings.
Additionally, it can help tighten loose muscles, relieve toothache, treat diarrhoea. And protect the skin from toxins and bacteria. Finally, applying cedarwood oil to pimples, blackheads. Or whiteheads as a spot treatment can help reduce the appearance of aging signs such as loose and wrinkly skin. According to Experts.
Risks of Cedarwood Essential Oil
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that cedarwood oil is safe to use in cosmetics or pesticides when used according to the instructions on the label. Although essential oils can sometimes cause skin irritation. Cedarwood oil causing skin problems is rare. To apply cedarwood oil to the skin. It is recommended to dilute it with a fatty carrier oil such as grapeseed oil or sweet almond oil.
How is cedarwood essential oil made?
To obtain cedarwood essential oil. One can use three methods: carbon dioxide (CO2) extraction, cold pressing, or steam distillation. The oil comes from different parts of cedar, juniper, or cypress trees, such as the bark, berries, leaves, and needles.
Cold pressing pulverizes the raw materials at room temperature before compression. While steam distillation injects hot steam through the raw material to vaporize the oil. Once condensed in the distillate, the oil is collected.
How to use cedarwood essential oil
There are various ways to use cedarwood essential oil. One can inhale it directly from the bottle or sprinkle it on a towel and place it under a pillow for aromatherapy. You can add cedarwood oil to an atomizer bottle and spray it on dried flowers or a lightbulb to gently scent your home.
Additionally, you can mix it with other scents such as lavender. To use it as a cologne. You can add a few drops of the oil to personal products or apply diluted oil behind the ears, wrists, or underarms.
You can also apply cedarwood oil topically for scalp and skin massage or add it to facial masks, scrubs, lotions, and shampoos. If you are experiencing respiratory discomforts. You can add it to a diffuser or combine it with other essential oils such as lavender, frankincense, and rosemary.
To alleviate pain, aches, stiffness, and inflammation. You can dilute it with a carrier oil and massage it into affected areas or add it to a warm bath. After diluting it and consulting with a veterinarian, cedarwood oil can be used as a moth and flea repellent by applying it topically to fabric, people, and pets.
Finally, you can add cedarwood oil to an anti-inflammatory oil for use as a spot treatment for pimples or add it to your daily moisturizer. However, it has not been proven to be effective in repelling mosquitoes.
Safety precautions
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognizes cedarwood oil as safe when used topically as an insecticide or food additive. With rare reports of skin irritation caused by the oil. It is important to dilute essential oils in a carrier oil and perform a patch test before using them topically to avoid skin irritation.
However, cedarwood oil should not be ingested and should not be use near sensitive areas like the eyes, inner nose, or ears. Pregnant and nursing women should avoid using cedarwood essential oil as it may interfere with hormone secretions and its safety for the fetus is unknown. Ingesting cedarwood oil can cause damage to internal organs, digestive system, vomiting, and excessive thirst. It is important to always read the instructions before using the product.
Summary
Cedarwood oil has potential health and beauty benefits, and its components have been studied in animal and human research. Cedarwood oil may contain several components. Including cedrine, cedrol, and thujopsene. Which possess properties like antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, diuretic, insecticidal, and antifungal.
The usefulness of the oil for specific conditions depends on the composition of the tree from which it’s derived. However, it’s important to dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before applying them topically. Do a patch test, and avoid using the oil near sensitive areas or if allergic to cedar. Additionally, pregnant and nursing women should avoid using cedarwood oil. And ingestion of the oil can be dangerous. Always read the instructions before incorporating it into your routine.
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