This month the focus is on Organic Cedarwood Essential Oil. 

This beautiful essential oil is well regarded in many cultures around the world for its medicinal benefits; prevalent in religious and purification rituals and present in many cosmetics. The oil is extracted by steam distillation from the bark of the evergreen cedar tree. It may be yellow or amber in colour and has a distinct slightly sweet, woody odour.

What is Cedarwood Essential Oil Good For?

Cedarwood essential oil is known for it's balancing, soothing and toning properties. It should be used in dilution. Here are some uses for this aromatic essential oil.

Balancing the Mind and Calming Emotions

Cedarwood essential oil can soothe nervous tension, anxiety, tiredness and improve focus. For men it is considered as an aphrodisiac.

Easing Aching Muscles and Joints

The warming and regenerative properties of this oil relieve aching muscles and joints and may help degenerative conditions such as arthritis.

Naturally Cleanses Hair and Skin

Cedarwood essential oil is used in many shampoos and skin treatments. Naturally cleansing, it supports healthy skin. It is an astringent for oily skin and hair. It can help in the treatment of acne, dandruff and athletes foot. It soothes itchy and irritated skin and promotes healing of wounds and skin ulcers.

Respiratory Cleansing

This essential oil is commonly used to help treat respiratory ailments such as excessive catarrh, coughs and bronchitis.

Supporting Women's Health

The stimulating effect of cedarwood can help regulate the menstrual cycle and the antiseptic properties are a useful treatment for unwanted vaginal discharges and infections.

Aiding Detox

Cedarwood can help to stimulate the flow of lymph, reduce water retention and aid the removal of toxins from the body.

How to Best Use Cedarwood Essential Oil

As a Massage Oil

Add 12 - 15 drops of cedarwood essential oil to 2 tablespoons of base oil. Almond oil is a good base oil to use for an uplifting massage treatment. For children over 2 years old or adults with sensitive skin, use up to 6 drops in 2 tbsp of base oil.

In an Ointment

Add 12 - 16 drops of cedarwood essential oil to 2 tablespoons of base oil or an ointment base. Apply several times a day to relieve itchy, irritated skin conditions and assist healing. 

As a Hot Compress

Add 4–6 drops of cedarwood oil to a bowl of hot water. Place a cotton cloth in the bowl, making sure the cloth comes into contact with the oil. Squeeze excess water from the clothand place on the treatment area. Leave for 20 minutes or until the cloth has cooled, remove the cloth and repeat the process for up to three applications.

In a Bath/Shower

Add up to 5 drops of cedarwood essential oil to 2 tablespoons of base oil,  bath oil, shower gel or full fat milk. For children over 2 years old or adults with sensitive skin, reduce the amount of cedarwood oil to 2 drops per 2 tablespoons. 

As an Inhalation

Add 4–6 drops of cedarwood to a bowl of steaming water, place a towel over your head and breathe. Inhalations are not suitable for babies. Children over 2 years old, adults with sensitive skin and asthmatics should not inhale directly. Instead, place the bowl of hot water with added oils in the room nearby.

As a Room Fragrance/Air Freshener

Add 1–3 drops in a diffuser or burner. For children over 2 years old, add 1–3 drops in a diffuser. Not suitable for babies.

What Blends with Cedarwood Essential Oil?

Bergamot, Black Pepper, Clary Sage, Cypress, Jasmine, Juniper, Lemon, Myrrh, Neroli, Rose and Rosemary

Safe Usage

This essential oil is non-toxic and non-irritant in dilution. Cedarwood is safe to use during pregnancy. Essential oils are not recommended to be used on the skin of babies or infants, and should be used with caution on children and adults with sensitive skin.