What Is Cedarwood Oil Best Used For?
Cedarwood oil is an essential oil derived from different types of cedar trees, most commonly the Atlas Cedar. It has a warm, woody, balsamic aroma. Some of the top uses for cedarwood oil include aromatherapy, skin care, hair care, insect repellent, natural deodorizer, cleaning, and for various medicinal purposes. Cedarwood oil has been used for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Egyptian times where it was used in cosmetics, fragrances, and embalming processes.
The Egyptians used cedarwood in their mummification processes, while the Tibetans used it in their traditional incense and medicine practices. The ancient Greeks and Romans used cedarwood leaves and wood to make cosmetics as well. Today, cedarwood oil is produced by steam distilling chips and sawdust from the wood of cedar trees.
Aromatherapy
Cedarwood essential oil is widely used in aromatherapy for its relaxing and calming properties. When diffused, cedarwood oil has been shown to help relieve stress and tension.
Multiple studies have found that cedarwood oil can help improve sleep quality and duration. Inhaling cedarwood oil before bed can help people fall asleep faster and wake up fewer times during the night (source1). This is likely due to the oil’s natural sedative effects.
Cedarwood oil also has proven anxiety-reducing abilities. When diffused, it has been shown to decrease anxiety symptoms and create a sense of calmness. For this reason, cedarwood oil aromatherapy is commonly used to alleviate daily stress and nervousness (source2).
Overall, research shows cedarwood oil is an effective aromatherapy treatment for promoting relaxation, restful sleep, and decreased anxiety.
Skin Care
Cedarwood essential oil is often used in skin care for its ability to treat common skin conditions like acne and oily skin. Several studies have shown cedarwood oil contains properties that can help reduce acne. One study found that cedarwood oil inhibited the growth of acne-causing bacteria like P. acnes by 98% after only 5 days of treatment (1). The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial compounds found in the oil are effective for treating breakouts (2).
In those with oily skin, cedarwood oil can help regulate sebum production. One study showed that when applied topically for 7 days, cedarwood oil reduced skin oil secretion by nearly 40% (3). By balancing oil production, cedarwood helps minimize greasiness and prevents clogged pores. The astringent compounds cause the skin to contract, leading to reduced overall oiliness.
The antioxidant properties of cedarwood oil also exhibit anti-aging effects. Using cedarwood can stimulate collagen production and increase skin elasticity over time. One study found a 5% cedarwood oil cream applied for 4 weeks led to a statistically significant decrease in wrinkles (4). Regular use can help smooth fine lines and tighten sagging skin. Its rejuvenating qualities help restore a youthful glow and minimize signs of aging.
(1) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4791888/
(2) https://www.walmart.com/c/kp/cedarwood-oil-skin
(3) https://www.amazon.com/cedarwood-oil-skin/s?k=cedarwood+oil+for+skin
(4) https://www.lbeauxtique.com/blogs/journal/7-cedarwood-skin-benefits-and-common-uses
Hair Care
Cedarwood oil is believed to promote hair growth by stimulating the scalp and improving circulation. According to a 2003 study, people with alopecia areata who massaged the essential oil into their scalp saw significant improvements in hair growth after daily application for 7 months. The researchers suggested that cedarwood oil could help treat hair loss.[1]
The antifungal and antibacterial properties of cedarwood oil may also help treat dandruff by reducing fungal growth and inflammation on the scalp that can cause flaking. A scalp massage with diluted cedarwood oil can exfoliate the scalp and reduce dandruff. Leave it on overnight and wash out in the morning for best results.[2]
Cedarwood oil is known to have soothing effects when applied to the skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help relieve itching and irritation. By massaging diluted cedarwood oil into the scalp, the oil’s soothing compounds are absorbed and provide relief from a dry, itchy scalp.[3]
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12112282
[2] https://www.bonfireyoga.com.au/events-and-blogs/blog/the-best-uses-of-cedarwood-essential-oil
[3] https://www.amazon.com/Cedar-Essential-Oil-For-Diffuser/dp/B075M8RDPK
Insect Repellent
Cedarwood oil is an effective natural insect repellent. It helps repel moths, ants, mosquitoes and other insects when used properly.
Cedarwood oil contains compounds like cedrol that are toxic to moths and can help repel them. Placing cedarwood chips or cedar balls in closets and drawers has been a traditional way to keep moths away from clothing and fabrics (Nature’s Botanical Insect Repellent).
The strong scent of cedarwood oil helps mask pheromones that attract ants. Using cedarwood oil around doors, windows and other ant entry points can discourage them from coming inside (Rosemary and Cedarwood Oil Cream).
Cedarwood oil can also be used as a mosquito repellent. When applied to the skin, cedarwood oil masks human scents that attract mosquitoes and other bugs. Blends containing cedarwood oil are effective natural alternatives to DEET for repelling mosquitoes (Melrose Essential Oil).
Natural Deodorizer
Cedarwood oil can be an excellent natural deodorizer due to its woody, earthy aroma. The oil has a pleasant scent that isn’t overwhelming, making it a subtle way to mask unwanted odors. Cedarwood oil absorbs odors rather than just covering them up. This makes it more effective than fragrances that simply overwhelm smelly scents. The aroma of cedarwood oil persists for a long time once applied. Just a small amount can provide odor absorption and a pleasant scent for hours. This longevity sets it apart from citrus or floral oils that tend to fade more quickly. For use as a deodorizer, cedarwood oil can be blended into a spray to refresh smelly areas around the home. It can also be added to laundry or used on the body as a non-irritating natural alternative to commercial deodorants. With its ability to absorb odors, provide a subtle woody aroma, and last a long time, cedarwood oil is an excellent natural deodorizer.
Cleaning
Cedarwood oil is often used as a natural cleaning product due to its potent disinfectant properties. The oil contains compounds like cedrol and cedar camphor that have antimicrobial effects against various bacteria, viruses, and fungi (1). When diluted and added to cleaning solutions, cedarwood oil helps sanitize surfaces and eliminate odors. Its fresh, woody aroma also provides a pleasant scent while cleaning.
One of the most common uses for cedarwood oil is in soaps and detergents. Many natural cleaning products incorporate cedarwood oil for its cleansing and deodorizing abilities. The oil is also sometimes included in pet shampoos to help control fleas and ticks. Overall, cedarwood oil is a versatile natural additive that makes an effective disinfectant and air freshener for house cleaning and laundry.
Sources:
(1) https://alisonsnotebook.com/cedarwood-oil-for-cleaning/
Medicinal Uses
Cedarwood oil has been used medicinally for centuries due to its beneficial bioactive compounds. Some of the main medicinal uses of cedarwood oil are as an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and sedative.
Research shows that cedarwood oil has strong anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and swelling when applied topically. The anti-inflammatory effects come from compounds like alpha-cedrene, beta-cedrene, and thujopsene [1]. Using cedarwood oil can provide relief from joint and muscle pain caused by inflammation.
Cedarwood oil also has natural antiseptic abilities and has been shown to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi [1]. This makes it useful for cleansing and purifying skin and wounds. The antiseptic action can help protect against infections.
Additionally, cedarwood oil has sedative and calming properties that induce relaxation and sleep. The sesquiterpenes and other compounds interact with neurotransmitters to promote restfulness. Diffusing cedarwood oil or inhaling it can help relieve stress and anxiety while promoting deeper sleep.
Other Uses
Cedarwood oil has some additional uses beyond aromatherapy, skin and hair care. Here are a few other ways cedarwood oil can be utilized:
Potpourri: The woody, warm scent of cedarwood oil makes it an excellent addition to homemade potpourri mixes. Just add a few drops of cedarwood oil to dried flowers, herbs, spices, and other ingredients to create a natural fragrance for your home.[1]
Fragrance: Cedarwood oil is commonly used in perfumes and colognes, especially men’s fragrances. It has a masculine, earthy aroma that blends well with other scents. A few drops added to a carrier oil can also be used as a natural personal fragrance.[2]
Repels rodents: Some research indicates that cedarwood oil may help deter mice, rats and other rodents when used properly. The strong scent triggers a avoidance response. Try soaking cotton balls in diluted cedarwood oil and placing them strategically to discourage unwanted pests.[3]
Overall, cedarwood oil is a versatile essential oil with many uses beyond aromatherapy and skin care. Its woodsy fragrance and therapeutic properties make it a valued ingredient in cosmetics, cleaning products, pest control and more.
Conclusion
Cedarwood oil has a wide range of beneficial uses, from skin and hair care to insect repellent and aromatherapy. Some of the top uses include treating acne, reducing skin irritation, minimizing dandruff, repelling moths, relieving stress, and adding a woodsy fragrance to homemade cleaners and perfumes.
When using cedarwood oil, it’s important to purchase 100% pure, therapeutic-grade oil and follow dilution and safety precautions. Recommended usage varies, but it’s often blended with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil at a 1-3% ratio. Perform a patch test before widespread use.
High quality cedarwood essential oil can be purchased from reputable online retailers that specialize in pure essential oils, such as Florapathics, VedaOils, and Raw Pharma. Check product details and reviews carefully when shopping online to ensure you receive undiluted, unadulterated cedarwood oil.
