The Sumerians considered Cedar trees sacred – a garden of them made up the realm of the Mesopotamian gods.
Cedarwood Oil
The Sumerians considered Cedar trees sacred – a garden of them made up the realm of the Mesopotamian gods. The Phoenicians prized the wood for its strength and pleasing scent. The ancient Egyptians made use of the oil in their embalming practices as part of their transition to the afterlife. One of the world’s oldest perfumes, cedarwood oil has a variety of applications beyond its warm and earthy aroma.
It’s an Insect Repellant
Cedarwood oil is commonly used as an insect repellant; numerous studies having been conducted using cedarwood oil effectively against various insect species. Add 4 or 5 drops of cedarwood essential oil per three tablespoons of water in a spray bottle or put a few drops on your bed sheets or pillows to keep insects away at night. When you’re on the go, put a few drops into an essential oil locket and enjoy your holiday without the irritation of buzzing mosquitos.
It Can Help You Sleep
Cedarwood essential oil has sedative and anxiolytic effects. It soothes and calms the mind, relieves tension and combats stress. Its scent encourages the release of serotonin, which is converted into melatonin in the brain. Melatonin induces restorative sleep and leaves you feeling calm and refreshed. Put a couple of drops on a handkerchief and inhale it when you find yourself unable to relax.
It Can Kill Bacteria
Cedarwood essential oil has antiseptic properties which can help to treat inflammation and infection of the skin such as eczema, acne and dry scalps. By regulating the production of sebum, it reduces pore clogging and the effects of harmful bacteria. Simply add a few drops to your skin cream, lotion or shampoo.
It Relieves Pain and Inflammation
Cedarwood oil is commonly suggested for easing the symptoms of arthritis and rheumatism. Make a massage blend by diluting your cedarwood oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or avocado oil, and rub it into the affected joints and muscles, or add 5 to 10 drops to a relaxing hot bath.
Cedarwood oil has a powerful base note and can neutralize intrusive odours like smoke, mildew, or the presence of animals. And since it combines well with other oils, you can blend it to create your own customized scent in your home. Inhaled, diffused or applied topically, its diverse application makes cedarwood oil a versatile and practical addition to your essential oil collection.
To find out more about the essential oils that can bring your body back into balance, read Issue 1, Breathe Magazine – Make Time for Yourself. Check our Store Finder for stockists near you!
Note of Caution
Never consume cedarwood oil internally as it can cause vomiting, nausea and damage to the digestive system. Always check with your healthcare practitioner before using cedarwood oil if you have an ongoing health condition, and before making any sort of drastic change or adding something new to your dietary regimen. Women who are pregnant should not use cedarwood essential oil.
Always dilute cedarwood oil before applying it to the skin. The ratio is 1 drop of cedarwood oil in 1 tablespoon of carrier oil. It can cause skin irritation if used undiluted or in high concentrations.
