Cedars are popular ornamental coniferous trees cultivated in the mountains of the western Himalayas and Mediterranean region. Four major species of cedarwood are cultivated across the world. And, they include Cedrus atlantica, Cedrus brevifolia, Cedrus deodara, and Cedrus libani. They grow up to 30 to 40 meters, and they have thick-ridged or square-cracked bark, needle-like evergreen leaves, and spicy-resinous wood. Temperate climates with snowy mountains are suitable for the cultivation of cedarwood.
Atlas Cedarwood and Himalayan Cedarwood
Atlas cedarwood (Cedrus Atlantica) and Himalayan cedarwood(Cedrus deodara) are known for their woody fragrance. Essential oil manufacturers extract the oil from their wood by steam distillation. As both plants belong to different regions, the aroma and chemical composition of the cedarwood essential oils differ. However, their uses and benefits remain more or less the same. They provide base perfumery notes in fragrance products. Their smell complements masculine blends and also acts as an aphrodisiac. The cedarwood oil is diffused to get a balanced mindset.
Blending of Cedarwood Essential Oils with Other EOs
Light golden yellow Atlas cedarwood oil with medium consistency blends well with citrus and spice oils such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom essential oils. Its woody base notes go well with top notes of citrus essential oils. Himalayan cedarwood essential oil is a transparent light yellow viscous liquid with a sweet woody aroma and camphorous top notes. Both of these oils blend well with the middle sweet, fruity, herbaceous notes of Roman chamomile essential oil besides rosemary, clary sage, and helichrysum.
Other Uses of Cedarwood Essential Oil
Besides fragrance, cedarwood essential oil finds applications in massage oils, hair care, skincare, and particular physical ailments. It is used in cosmetics as it helps treat acne and dermatitis. Its inhalation or intake helps alleviate cough and bronchitis conditions, so it is mixed in herbal formulations or diffuser blends. Its aroma helps stabilize the mind and de-stress the mind. The natural compounds of Cedarwood oil help reduce inflammation and muscular pain, so it is mixed in massage oils to relieve body aches and arthritic pain.
Cedarwood essential oil is added to hair oils as it nourishes hair, removes dandruff, and gives a glow and wonderful smell to the hair. It is also used in hair conditioners and serums to promote the health of the hair. The users can safely use this essential oil in their DIY perfumes, body care, diffusion blends, and massage blends.
