About the Oil
Cedarwood essential oil is steam-distilled from the wood, bark, or roots of various cedar tree species. Its warm, woody aroma is grounding, rich, and subtly sweet—with a long history in spiritual practice, medicine, and perfumery. More than just a pleasant scent, cedarwood is packed with active compounds that support emotional clarity, skin health, and respiratory ease.
Why You Would Use Cedarwood Essential Oil
Cedarwood is often chosen when someone is looking for:
- Deep grounding and emotional support during stress
- Help winding down and preparing for sleep
- Relief from oily or irritated skin, including acne or dandruff
- Natural respiratory support and easier breathing
- A focus-enhancing, calming aromatic profile
- Gentle insect-repellent and antimicrobial properties
Clinical Findings
| Study | Participants & Methods | Key Results | Reference |
|
Fights Common Fungal Skin Infections |
In vitro testing of cedarwood tar against three dermatophyte strains |
Cedarwood effectively inhibited the growth of fungi that caused athlete's foot and ringworm, with strong results even at low doeses. |
Masmoudi et al., 2024 |
|
Protects Against Harmful Bacteria |
In vitro antibacterial and antioxidant testing of Cedrus atlantica EO |
Showed strong antimicrobial activity against E. coli, Staphylococcus, and other skin bacteria—along with potent antioxidant properties. |
Ez-Zriouli et al., 2023 |
Behind The Science (Made Simple)
Cedarwood doesn’t just smell comforting—it actively helps the body and mind find balance.
- Calms the nervous system: Cedarwood stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps shift the body out of “fight or flight” and into rest-and-digest mode.
- Balances stress hormones: Some studies show it can lower cortisol, the body’s key stress hormone, helping ease tension both mentally and physically.
- Cleanses and protects the skin: Thanks to compounds like cedrol and thujopsene, cedarwood helps control oil production, fight bacteria, and reduce inflammation.
- Supports clear breathing: Its slightly camphoraceous undertone makes it a gentle respiratory aid—soothing tightness and opening the airways.
- Improves focus and mental clarity: Especially when diffused, cedarwood promotes a steady, calm alertness—ideal for meditation, study, or sleep transitions.
How and Where It Grows
Cedarwood essential oil can come from several species. Most commonly used in aromatherapy are:
- Juniperus virginiana (Eastern red cedar) – Native to North America
- Cedrus atlantica (Atlas cedar) – Native to Morocco and the Atlas Mountains
- Cedrus deodara (Himalayan cedar) – Grown in India, Bhutan, and parts of Nepal
These majestic, slow-growing trees are highly aromatic and thrive in dry, mountainous regions. The wood is steam-distilled—often using sustainable, reclaimed or fallen timber—to extract its fragrant and therapeutic oil.
Use in Ancient Medicine
Cedar has been used for thousands of years. In Ancient Egypt, cedar oil was used in embalming and spiritual rituals. Native American traditions used cedar smoke and oil for purification and protection. In Ayurveda, it’s been used to calm “Vata” energy, clear skin issues, and support emotional grounding.
Symbolism
Cedarwood represents strength, wisdom, and sacred connection. Its deep roots and towering form make it a symbol of inner stability and spiritual resilience. It’s long been considered a guardian tree—offering comfort, clarity, and protection across cultures and healing traditions.
INFORMATION provided is intended for informational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Statements have not been evaluated by Health Canada or the FDA. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider before using essential oils for therapeutic purposes.
References
- Masmoudi, Sanae & Aiboud, Abdelmjid & Chaoui, Mme Laila & Milouk, Fatimazahra & Ahmed, Moussaif & Hessni, Aboubaker & Mesfioui, Abdelhalim. (2024). Phytochemical composition of cedar tar of the atlas and it's in vitro antifungal activity against Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Microsporum canis. Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences. 37. 257-263.10.36721/PJPS.2024.37.2.REG.257-263.1.
- Ez-Zriouli R, ElYacoubi H, Imtara H, Mesfioui A, ElHessni A, Al Kamaly O, Zuhair Alshawwa S, Nasr FA, Benziane Ouaritini Z, Rochdi A. Chemical Composition, Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities and Acute Toxicity of Cedrus atlantica, Chenopodium ambrosioides and Eucalyptus camaldulensis Essential Oils. Molecules. 2023; 28(7):2974. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28072974
