Health Benefits of Cedarwood Oil

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Cedarwood oil has been in use for a considerable period of time for varied purposes. It is widely used in aromatherapy for its pleasant woody smell, and sedative properties. Apart from being a sedative, this oil has several other important medicinal properties.

Cedar or Cedrus atlantica is an evergreen tree of the genus Cedrus. The woodchips and sawdust of this tree are steam distilled to extract a light yellow to orange-colored viscous oil that has woody and spicy aroma.

Today, a large part of the commercial demand for cedarwood oil is met by the oil extracted from the wood of Juniperus virginiana , which is also known as red cedar. But earlier, the Lebanon Cedar was used for this purpose. The oil extracted from cedarwood has been known to mankind since ancient times for its medicinal and insect-repelling properties.

Health Benefits of Cedarwood Essential Oil

In ancient Egypt, it was used for embalming during mummification. Even ancient Greeks used it for preserving dead bodies. In Asian countries, it has been used for therapeutic purposes, especially for treating infections of the respiratory and the urinary tract.

In Tibet, it is used in temples as an incense. In modern times, it has found a wide range of applications due to its insect-repelling, antiseptic, antispasmodic, expectorant, and sedative properties.

• The rich and soothing aroma of cedarwood oil has made it an important aromatherapy oil. This oil is known to have a calming effect on the body and the mind, and so, it is extensively used in aromatherapy. It can be very effective in conditions like stress, anxiety, depression, and insomnia.

• This oil can regulate sebum production, and thus, it can help alleviate skin conditions, like seborrhea, and infections of the epidermal cells. • It has antiseptic properties and so, it can be used to treat minor wounds. In fact, it is used in many herbal antiseptic creams.

• It can help relieve cough and congestion due to its expectorant quality. It can also help remove phlegm and mucus from the respiratory tract and the lungs, and thereby reduce congestion. One can also use it to get relief from headache.

• Cedar oil is a natural insecticide. This oil can repel mosquitoes, bugs, moths, and many other insects. • Many people use this oil for hair, especially for dry hair. It can also be used to stimulate hair growth and treat dandruff.

• For women, this oil has some additional benefits, as it can alleviate the problem of irregular menstruation, and some discomforts like nausea and fatigue that generally accompany menstruation. • This oil can be used for acne, toothache, dermatitis, kidney disorders, and the spasms of the muscles of respiratory system and the nerves.

• Cedarwood oil can be used for several health conditions, including arthritis, cystitis, bronchitis, rheumatism, gout, hypertension, and obesity. It can improve general health and well-being by improving metabolism, and facilitating the smooth functioning of the nervous and the digestive system.

So, cedarwood oil can be used for alleviating several ailments. However, some individuals can experience skin irritation, especially if the oil is used in high concentration. Women are usually advised to avoid this oil during pregnancy.

Disclaimer: This is is for informative purposes only, and should not be treated as a substitute for professional medical advice.