Cedarwood
Cedrus Atlantica
Cedarwood Oil is said to be one of the first essential oils ever extracted. First used by the Ancient Egyptians, it cemented itself into multiple cultures over thousands of years. Today, it is used in aromatherapy to help with anxiety, stress, sleep issues and more. It is also commonly used to treat infection, as well as treating wood and keeping insects at bay.
History of Cedarwood Oil
Cedarwood Oil, Latin name Cedrus Atlantica could quite possibly be the first essential oil to ever be extracted from a plant. The cedarwood tree can grow up to 30 metres in height and live for over 1,000 years! First used by the ancient Egyptians, they used Cedarwood Oil in the embalming process as well as warding off infection and disease. Fast forward to 17th century England Cedarwood Oil was a remedy for coughs and colds, and even today Cedarwood Oil is considered a staple by many.
Cedarwood Oil has been used in ancient and modern medicine, to ward off ‘evil’ and as a skincare remedy, due to its soothing qualities. It’s smell is sweet, musky and in some cases (depending on the variety) slightly spicy. The aroma is pleasant and works well on its own or blended with other essential oils, and is actually one of the easiest essential oils to blend with because of this. Today, Cedarwood Oil is mostly produced in Morocco and France.
So, why has Cedarwood Oil survived through the ages?
Because it’s so versatile! We would put Cedarwood Oil in a similar category to Lavender Oil and citrus oils because they are easy to access and can be used to tackle multiple issues. Whether you’re looking to use essential oils to replace chemicals in your skincare and home cleaners, or to help with your mental and physical health, Cedarwood Oil hits every single marker when it comes to those categories. It is a staple for so many due to its versatility, and universally its properties seem to work for a vast number of people, meaning that you can feel the benefits of Cedarwood Oil even if your skin/body doesn’t respond well to other essential oils that you own.
Whether it’s making a homemade candle to leave your room smelling gorgeous, or creating an aromatherapy blend that will help you alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression, Cedarwood Oil can tackle all of those issues. It has survived through the ages because virtually every culture has used Cedarwood Oil in some respect. The Egyptians used it for embalming, and the British used it to treat disease and skin conditions. The results that each culture was able to yield from using Cedarwood Oil has won over the hearts of even modern day medicine. In our eyes - it should be a staple in your collection.
Extracting Cedarwood Oil
The most common method of extracting Cedarwood Oil is through steam distillation. Cedarwood Oil is made from cedarwood chips, and the yield and colour of oil will depend on the variety used. Steam distillation involves using steam to lift the oil from the wood chips, where it will condense and can then be skimmed off the top of the cold water.
Commercially this is a popular route of extraction, but there are other innovative methods that are being used on a smaller scale to see if the oil yield can be increased. Most essential oils can be extracted by steam distillation, as it’s a natural and non-invasive method to extract the oil, as it’s simply hot water vapour!
Can I make Cedarwood Oil at home?
In short, yes you can. There are many varieties of cedarwood that you can plant if you don’t have a cedarwood tree in your garden. We recommend choosing a variety that grows in your home climate, as some varieties will need hotter or wetter weather to thrive. If you have access to fresh cedarwood chips, you can use two different DIY methods to extract the oil. Firstly, if you own a small steam distiller (which we recommend if you plan on making multiple DIY oil) you can do it using that method.
The other option available is using alcohol to extract oil from the chips, and can take anywhere from 1-2 weeks to make. All you need is a large UV ray blocking jar, some alcohol and wood chips. Cover the wood chips completely with the alcohol and store in a cool, dry place from 1-2 weeks. Remove the chips and leave the mixture to evaporate in your kitchen (away from the sun) for a further 24-48 hours. What you’re left with is Cedarwood Oil! And you can use it.
Cedarwood Oil commercially is fairly accessible to most countries, and is a common essential oil. So, if you find that the DIY method isn’t for you, you can always purchase online through our website!
Can I make Cedarwood Oil at home?
In short, yes you can. There are many varieties of cedarwood that you can plant if you don’t have a cedarwood tree in your garden. We recommend choosing a variety that grows well in your home climate, as some varieties will need hotter or wetter weather to thrive. If you have access to fresh cedarwood chips, you can use two different DIY methods to extract the oil. Firstly, if you own a small steam distiller (which we recommend if you plan on making multiple DIY oil's) you can do it using that method.
The other option available is using alcohol to extract oil from the chips, and this method can take anywhere from 1-2 weeks to make. All you need is a large UV ray blocking jar, some alcohol and wood chips. Cover the wood chips completely with the alcohol and store in a cool, dry place from 1-2 weeks. Remove the chips and leave the mixture to evaporate in your kitchen (away from the sun) for a further 24-48 hours. What you’re left with is Cedarwood Oil! And you can then begin to use it.
Cedarwood Oil commercially is fairly accessible to most countries, and is a common essential oil. So, if you find that the DIY method isn’t for you, you can always purchase online through our website!
Cedarwood Oil Varieties
Cedarwood Oil Varieties
Cedarwood Oil is made from cedarwood chips, and some of the biggest suppliers of Cedarwood Oil are France and Morocco. It’s an accessible oil with a beautiful musky sweet scent that works on its own, or blended with multiple oils in your collection.
There are only four true types of cedar that are of high quality and considered ‘true’ cedarwood, producing varying oils. They are Deodar Cedar, Atlas Cedar, Cyprian Cedar and Cedar of Lebanon. Of course there are multiple varieties of cedarwood alongside these, and some are actually chosen specifically for their aromatics, especially when creating a perfume. Some brands may have renamed their Cedarwood Oil without stating the variety, but on the ingredients you will be able to see its botanical name (which is often written in Latin) so you can always double check which variant it was derived from.
So, which variety should I choose?
It depends on your personal preference, purely because all the varieties of Cedarwood Oil on the market share the same properties, it’s the scent that usually differentiates them. For example, some varieties of cedarwood are specifically used in mens perfume because of the fresh aroma which is often likened to fresh pine needles. This variety of Cedarwood Oil may not be appropriate if you are trying to create a blend to aid restful sleep, as the sharpness of the scent will contradict what you’re trying to achieve.
We recommend when choosing a variety that you read up on what the oil is aiming to target, and from there decide if it’s one you wish to purchase. For example, at Essentially we will specify when describing the oil we sell what it’s best used for, so you understand exactly what the oil targets. If that doesn’t match your goals, then it’s important to find a variety of Cedarwood Oil that has the right scent for you - as the properties of each oil are practically the same.
What do you think of Cedarwood Oil? Is there a specific variety that is your go-to? Here at Essentially Yours we love hearing your stories and which varieties have worked for you. So don’t hesitate to reach out to us and tell us your experiences!
So, which variety should I choose?
It depends on your personal preference, purely because all the varieties of Cedarwood Oil on the market share the same properties, it’s the scent that usually differentiates them. For example, some varieties of cedarwood are specifically used in mens perfume because of the fresh aroma which is often likened to fresh pine needles. This variety of Cedarwood Oil may not be appropriate if you are trying to create a blend to aid restful sleep, as the sharpness of the scent will contradict what you’re trying to achieve.
We recommend when choosing a variety that you read up on what the oil is aiming to target, and from there decide if it’s one you wish to purchase. For example, at Essentially we will specify when describing the oil we sell what it’s best used for, so you understand exactly what the oil targets. If that doesn’t match your goals, then it’s important to find a variety of Cedarwood Oil that has the right scent for you - as the properties of each oil are practically the same.
What do you think of Cedarwood Oil? Is there a specific variety that is your go-to? Here at Essentially Yours we love hearing your stories and which varieties have worked for you. So don’t hesitate to reach out to us and tell us your experiences!
Benefits of Cedarwood Oil
Cedarwood Oil is a popular oil even today. Used in aromatherapy, skincare and alternative medicine, Cedarwood Oil has been a staple for many cultures for thousands of years, dating back as far as the Ancient Egyptians, who would use the oil as part of the mummification process. The scent of Cedarwood Oil is - you guessed it - woody, but can also have a sweet musky undertone. The popularity of this oil isn’t just due to its gorgeous scent, but also because it can be used to target a number of problems, from mental health to your skin's texture. In our eyes, it should be a staple in your collection.
So, what are the benefits of using Cedarwood Oil?
Great for acne-prone skin
As Cedarwood Oil has antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, it is gentle on acne-prone skin and has been proven to reduce breakouts and keep your skin calm. Whether used topically or with a carrier oil, it is 100% natural and a remedy that is popular in skincare. It can also help to dramatically reduce the appearance of scars, and even out your skin's tone and texture.
Aids restful sleep
Cedarwood Oil has a calming and soothing scent, which can be used either on its own or in conjunction with another sleep aiding oil such as Lavender Oil to create a beautiful blend perfect to help you sleep better. You can also massage the oil with a carrier oil into your skin before bedtime, as the aroma will induce a feeling of calm.
Reduces anxiety and depression
In aromatherapy Cedarwood Oil is used to treat symptoms of anxiety and depression, and overall leaves you feeling less tense. Outside of aromatherapy it can be massaged into the skin, as it can help with physical pain that is impacting your anxiety, such as arthritis and muscle pain.
Antiseptic properties
The oil has natural antiseptic properties and can be used to soothe skin that is irritated from stings from nettles, bees and wasps. It helps to reduce the risk of infection, without using harsh chemicals.
Insecticidal
Cedarwood Oil can be used on its own as an insect and bug repellent, which is why it is popular for travellers to carry a small bottle with them, especially if they can’t access commercial insect repellent spray to hand.
Promotes hair growth
Cedarwood Oil is popular in hair care as it can be used on your scalp to promote hair growth, as well as keeping the root of your hair nourished and moisturised. It can also be used in hair masks to lock in moisture and keep your hair looking and feeling healthy.
These are some of our favourite benefits of Cedarwood Oil, and although we can’t list them all - you’ll see how versatile the oil is and why it’s loved by so many. Please note that some essential oils don’t work for everybody, so you may find that particular treatments don’t work for your skin, hair or body.
If this is the case - don’t fear! There are many other essential oils available that may be more effective for you, and often it’s finding the right one for you to help you achieve your goals.
Uses of Cedarwood Oil
Cedarwood Oil is a beautiful, fragrant oil that has been used for thousands of years in alternative medicine, skin and hair care as well as perfumery. Its aroma and thick consistency has made it a staple across many cultures as a soothing ointment as well as being used for embalming in the Ancient Egyptian period.
So, what can you use Cedarwood Oil for?
Aromatherapy
Cedarwood Oil is used in aromatherapy to help aid restful sleep as well as a natural antianxiety and antidepressant. Whether used on its own or combined with another relaxant such as Bergamot or Lavender, Cedarwood Oil has been used in aromatherapy for many years to treat such issues.
Perfume
Cedarwood Oil is used in some men's colognes and perfumes. Mixing this with some carrier oil and applying to the neck and wrists can make a beautiful perfume, even on its own.
Acne Treatment
Mixed with a carrier oil, Cedarwood Oil can be used on the face to treat breakouts and calm the skin. Great to try out if you are struggling with creams that often lack natural ingredients and do more harm than good to acne-prone skin.
Bug and moth repellent
Most moth-repellents are made from pure cedarwood balls, so Cedarwood Oil works under the same pretense. You can also apply this topically to keep mosquitos and bugs at bay, preventing bites.
Hair masks and scalp treatments
Cedarwood Oil has been proven to improve hair growth and keep the root of the hair healthy and moisturised. You can use Cedarwood Oil to create hair masks which will help your scalp all the way to the ends of your hair stay moist and shiny
Moisturizer
Mixed with a carrier oil, Cedarwood Oil can help with arthritic and muscular pain, and can be used as a massage oil to target a specific area and soothe it.
Muscle aches and body pains
If you love the smell of Cedarwood Oil, you can always add a few drops into a carrier oil or plain moisturiser to create a beautiful scent, whilst also keeping your skin moisturised and nourished.
DIY wood polish
Ironic as it’s made from wood, but Cedarwood Oil can be used as a DIY wood polish on untreated wood, without having to invest a lot of money into a wood treatment.
DIY candles
You’ll see that a lot of high end candles contain Cedarwood Oil, so why not make your own at home? You can purchase the wax melts online, and then create your own scented candles at a fraction of the price.
Blends well with
Here at Essentially Yours we are passionate about sharing our tips, tricks and knowledge with you - enabling you to get the absolute most out of your essential oil collection. Whether you want to take a history lesson to understand the roots of each oil you own, or, you just want to find the best blends - don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this blog we’re going to talk about Cedarwood Oil and what it blends well with. So, if you want to learn more - keep reading!.
Coconut Oil
This is a carrier oil that is suitable for all skin types, as the makeup of this oil is similar to the natural oils we find in our skin. This means even if you are acne-prone, you can use an oil to either moisturise or soothe your skin without excess buildup. It blends perfectly with Cedarwood Oil and can be used as a moisturiser or to create a soothing rub for areas where you are feeling pain.
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Almond Oil
Sweet Almond Oil is a hydrating and nourishing carrier oil that blends well with Cedarwood Oil to create a day to day moisturiser. It can also be used on sensitive and dry patches of skin, avoiding irritation.
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Jojoba Oil
This is the perfect carrier oil for acne prone skin, and combined with Cedarwood Oil you have a great facial moisturiser. Cedarwood Oil has been proven to reduce breakouts, and Jojoba Oil’s makeup is very similar to your skin's natural oils, meaning that it won’t clog your pores - instead it’ll keep it moisturised.
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Sweet Orange Oil
A beautiful sweet citrus oil, Orange Oil pairs beautifully with Cedarwood Oil to create a warming home fragrance, or a soothing aromatherapy blend.
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Bergamot Oil
Bergamot Oil is known for its floral and woody undertones, so makes the perfect partner with Cedarwood Oil. Bergamot Oil also has anti-anxiety properties when used in aromatherapy, so using this blend can work to reduce anxiety and symptoms of depression.
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Geranium Oil
Often used in perfumery, Geranium and Cedarwood create a musky scent that can work for both men and women. It can be used topically as a blend or with a carrier oil if you have sensitive skin - just beautiful!
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Lavender Oil
Like Cedarwood Oil, Lavender Oil pairs with most essential oils and has a soothing floral scent that is used in perfumery, skincare and other beauty regimes alike. You can use this blend as a perfume, to create a homemade soap or in aromatherapy to help you get to sleep. It can also be used in an electric diffuser to create a calming scent for your home.
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Ginger Oil
Spicy and aromatic, Ginger Oil is an oil that soothes aches and pains, therefore pairs well with Cedarwood Oil to create a massage oil that targets muscle pain. The scent is also great!
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