Amazing Health Benefits…
Cedarwood is a multipurpose essential oil that is a must-have for your medicine cabinet. Used topically, Cedarwood oil has a warm, woodsy aroma that creates a comforting, uplifting experience offering many health benefits. It’s most frequently used for the nervous and respiratory system, and is supportive of the urinary system as well. Its versatility can aid in the pain relief of arthritis, relieve anxiety and stress, repel insects, and much more!
History Of Cedarwood
Cedarwood is a plant native to cold climates and is normally found at high altitudes. The oil is extracted through the process of steam distillation from bark pieces of the cedarwood tree and has been used for centuries by the Egyptians and Native Americans for cosmetic and medical benefits. Cedarwood has a long history as both an incense and a perfume. The Greeks and Romans were known to burn the wood to fragrant the air, while Egyptians used cedarwood in their embalming processes as well as a perfume ingredient. It’s also mentioned frequently in the Bible, as Cedar is the tree that Solomon used to build the Temple of Jerusalem and today symbolizes a source of protection, wisdom and abundance.
Uses Of Cedarwood Essential Oil
Cedarwood oil has a sweet, deep woody scent which contains various components that may contribute to an individual’s mental and physical health. Mentally, Cedarwood is wonderful at relieving anxiety. It is used in aromatherapy treatments to relieve stress and offer relaxation. It has a calming, soothing effect on the mind and body. Inhaling Cedarwood is believed to instantly trigger the endorphins in the brain, which helps to put you at ease and unwind. Diffuse it or rub a few drops in the palms of your hands. Cup your hands over your nose and inhale deeply.
Physically, Cedarwood can assist in a number of everyday uses. Here’s a list of applications that deliver remarkable results!
Skin and Hair Benefits
- Cedarwood essential oil can be used to relieve itching, eczema and psoriasis as well as to treat acne, oily skin and fungal infections. To treat rashes and fungal infections, mix a few drops of Cedarwood essential oil with a teaspoon of ‘carrier oil’ such as V6, sweet almond, jojoba, avocado, or coconut oil, and apply to the affected area every few hours. Do not put Cedarwood oil on broken skin or apply it to a rash that is open or oozing.
- Cedarwood oil acts as a great cleanser and toner if you have oily skin. Simply add a few drops of the essential oil to your regular cleaner or mix with mild liquid soap or lotion/cream. Treat acne by adding a few drops to your moisturizer and apply at bedtime.
- Cedarwood essential oil is also used to treat dandruff and dull, lifeless, greasy-looking hair. Combine Cedarwood essential oil with your favorite shampoo. Add 10 drops of the essential oil to eight ounces of shampoo. Shake and rub into your scalp and hair and let sit for 3-5 minutes. Then rinse thoroughly with water. This process may also be used to stimulate hair follicles and increase circulation of the scalp to prevent hair loss.
Arthritis Pain and Sore Muscles
- Cedarwood essential oil has also been known to alleviate pain and stiffness associated with arthritis and other muscle and joint conditions. Use about 10 drops of essential oil per 1ounce of carrier oil and massage blend into any body part where your muscles are sore. Add a few drops of Cedarwood to a small amount of carrier oil and mix into an Epsom salt bath to soothe sore muscles.
Respiratory/Chest Infections
- Cedarwood oil can help to remove phlegm from the lungs and respiratory tract. If you suffer from asthma, bronchitis or chest congestion, put 2-3 drops of Cedarwood into hot water for steam inhalation. Before bed, rub two drops of diluted Cedarwood oil into your chest and throat.
Help Regulate Menstruation
- Cedarwood oil stimulates the blood flow in the pelvic regions and can help if you have irregular menstruation. It also helps with PMS symptoms including mood swings, pain, nausea and fatigue. Mix 12 drops of Cedarwood essential oil with carrier oil and apply to the lower abdomen and/or the soles of the feet to aid hormone balancing and pain relief.
Diuretic
- Cedarwood can help remove harmful toxins and excess water from the body by increasing the frequency of urination. To use as a diuretic, rub 2 drops of Cedarwood oil into your hands and massage to the kidney and bladder areas. Add 8-10 drops to your bath water for relief from urinary tract infections, cystitis or kidney disorders.
Insect Repellent
- Use cedarwood oil as an insect repellent by adding 2 to 3 drops to a diffuser, or using a few drops on cotton balls and placing them in highly infested areas. It is known to be highly effective in repelling mosquitoes as well as a number of other insects.
Natural Air Freshener
- Cedarwood has a strong scent that naturally eliminates or neutralizes odors such as smoke, mildew, pet odors, food odors etc. It also blends well with other oils. Diffuse it alone or with other oils such as lavender, lemon, orange, rose, or sandalwood to create a pleasant aroma.
Precautions
- Pregnant women should avoid using cedarwood oil.
- It can also be an irritant for individuals with severe sensitive skin issues. It is best to do a patch test first before applying to problematic areas.
- While some essential oils can be ingested or added to food, it is not safe to take cedarwood oil orally. Since it is such a strong oil, it could cause severe side effects such as vomiting, nausea, excessive thirst or damage to the digestive system.
- It should not be used by individuals who have high blood pressure or certain heart conditions.
It is important to note that I am sharing this information based on personal research and knowledge. I am not a certified aromatherapist. I am an avid user of Essential oils. Be sure to do further research on your own and consult a physician before implementing use of essential oils.
If you have any questions about Cedarwood essential oil, please feel free to email me at dina@fitnessincentive.com.
HAPPY OILING!
