Cedarwood essential oils, known for their distinctive earthy and woodsy aroma, are highly valued not only for their fragrance but also for their insect-repelling capabilities (like grandma’s linens in the cedar chest). However, each oil in this family carries unique therapeutic properties, making them more than just pleasant scents.

The Cedarwood Oils Family

The cedarwood essential oil family comprises six oils, grown worldwide. Notably, only Atlas and Himalayan cedarwood oils are true cedar oils, steam-distilled from the wood chips or sawdust of cedarwood trees. In contrast, other oils in the family, such as Texas and Virginiana cedarwood oils, are actually derived from junipers, which differ slightly in properties and fragrance.

Cedarwood Oils: History and Properties

Cedarwood oils have been used for thousands of years. The Egyptians utilized these oils for repelling insects and in their embalming practices. The Bible references cedarwood oil for its cleansing and healing abilities. In the scientific community, cedarwood essential oils have been celebrated for their therapeutic properties; for example, in 1960, the Environmental Protection Agency listed cedarwood oil as an insect repellent, and since then, more studies have concluded significant findings, including:

A 1998 study noted cedarwood oil’s benefits for hair regrowth.

A 2013 study highlighted its significant antifungal properties.

Another 2013 study noted its wound healing and anti-inflammatory benefits.

A 2020 study showed improved cognitive function in dementia patients.

A 2018 study found mood-stabilizing abilities and relief of anxiety and stress.

While these oils share some overlap in terms of their calming effects, decongestant abilities and insect-repelling properties, each type of cedarwood oil has a distinct chemical composition, resulting in unique therapeutic benefits.

Choosing the Right Cedarwood Oil

Selecting the correct cedarwood oil is crucial to achieving the desired benefits. Two of the most popular are Cedarwood Atlas and Cedarwood Virginiana. Each offers specific properties to support optimal physical and emotional well-being.

Cedarwood Atlas, Certified Organic (Cedrus atlantica)

Grown in Morocco, Cedarwood Atlas is a descendant of the cedars of Lebanon mentioned in the Bible. It has a warm, sweet aroma reminiscent of cedar-lined chests and is often used in perfumery and cosmetics. However, this versatile oil offers a variety of other benefits:

Calming Effects: Cedarwood Atlas is deeply calming and helps relieve stress, aiding in mental grounding and centering.

Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Properties: These make it popular for massage oils, helping to reduce arthritis pain.

Respiratory Support: Its decongestant, antispasmodic and expectorant properties support healthy respiration, making it effective for relieving chest colds and congestion.

Hair Regrowth: A 1998 study showed Cedarwood Atlas oil as a safe and effective treatment for alopecia areata.

Skin Healing: It can be blended with a carrier oil and applied to the skin to encourage healing from eczema.

Additionally, Cedarwood Atlas makes an excellent bug repellant when mixed with equal parts of distilled water and witch hazel in a spray bottle. It can also be diffused to create a calming and grounding atmosphere.

Cedarwood Virginiana (Juniperus virginiana)

Distilled from the Juniper family, this essential oil has a fresh, woodsy aroma often compared to the scent of freshly shaved pencils. Cedarwood Virginiana is known for its:

Respiratory Benefits: Its decongestant and expectorant properties make it effective for treating respiratory issues.

Infection Fighting: Thanks to its antiseptic and diuretic properties, it is useful for combating infections, particularly urinary tract infections and kidney issues.

Emotional Benefits: This oil is celebrated for its ability to relieve stress and boost confidence, especially when diffused or inhaled.

Skin Healing: Blended with a carrier oil or lotion, it supports healing for skin issues like eczema, psoriasis and acne. Its astringent properties help reduce the appearance of rough and red skin.

Insect-Repellent Capabilities: Like Cedarwood Atlas, Cedarwood Virginiana works well as an insect repellent when blended with witch hazel and distilled water.

From emotional centering to improved physical health, utilizing oils in the cedarwood family offers some excellent benefits beyond their woodsy aromas. As always, education is key to maximizing these benefits, so thorough research is recommended to enjoy the full therapeutic properties of cedarwood essential oils.

Chemist and blend master Debra Stoltzfus, owner of Inshanti Pure Essential Oils, in Kinzers, has been active in the wellness industry for more than 20 years with advanced certification in aromatic medicine. For more information, visit Inshanti.com. Dr. Susan Cherie Beam is a visiting assistant professor at York College of Pennsylvania and a freelance writer who is deeply committed to optimizing emotional and physical well-being for all.