Cedarwood oil, also known as cedar oil, is actually a yellowish sticky oil that is extracted from the Lebanon cedar trees and used for making cosmetics and perfumes as well as an antidote for poison. This essential oil is also effective for tackling a number of health issues, including arthritis, kidney problems, respiratory disorders, and skin problems. In fact, owing to its therapeutic benefits, the oil is in high demand in aromatherapy.
Cedarwood essential oil is popular for its fragrant, bactericidal, antiseptic, pesticidal, and anti-inflammatory properties. The main components of this cedar oil include cedrol, alpha cedrene, thujopsene, widdrol, beta cedrene as well as sesquiterpenes.
Now, let’s talk about the health benefits of cedarwood essential oil.
Diuretic Properties
As a diuretic cedarwood oil helps to treat numerous health issues, including high blood pressure, arthritis, obesity, rheumatism, gout, hypertension, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). The oil also improves the frequency of urination it is a medium for the elimination of toxins, excess fat and water from the body.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
While studies on humans are still ongoing, it is believed that cedar oil has an anti-inflammatory effect on arthritis. When applied topically on the skin or inhales, the oil can significantly reduce inflammation of the joints and tissues.
Treats Eczema
Eczema is a skin condition which results in dry, itchy, red skin that may cause blisters or even crack. Thankfully, cedarwood essential oil can cure the inflammation which often leads to skin irritation. In fact, the oil prevents the skin from peeling and treats skin infections. You can simply add some cedar oil to your bathing soap or skin lotion. Apply to the infected area or add the oil to your bath water.
Reduces Arthritis
One of the common signs of arthritis is inflammation of the joints and tissues. However, the pain and discomfort can be significantly lowered by using cedarwood essential oil. By inhaling the oil or applying it topically to the skin, you reduce inflammation and joint stiffness.
Treats Insomnia
Cedarwood essential oil is one sedative that can induce sleep. It does this by stimulating the release of melatonin and thus, induces sleep relieves stress.
Prevents Hair Loss
Cedarwood essential oil can stimulate the hair follicles and improve blood circulation in the scalp. This improves hair growth, delays hair thinning and other kinds of alopecia.
Antiseptic Properties
Cedarwood essential oil is safe when topically applied to wounds as it kills germs. The oil protects the body against toxins, improve immunity, and staves off bacteria in the body. Prepare an oil rub consisting of cedarwood essential oil and coconut oil, and apply to the body to treat infections, scars, or wounds.
Tightens Muscles
Since cedarwood essential oil is an astringent, it helps to tighten loose muscles and create a sense of youthfulness. Also, the oil strengthens the muscles of the digestive tract, which helps prevent stomach issues such as diarrhea. For a calming effect, massage the oil into your arms, chest, and legs.
Antispasmodic Properties
Spasms and related health issues can be effectively treated by using cedarwood essential oil. This includes spasms that affect the nerves, intestines, heart, respiratory system, and muscles.
Regulates Menstruation
For women who suffer irregular menstruation, cedarwood oil can help regulate the monthly period by activating the flow of blood in the pelvic regions. It could also help alleviate side effects of menstruation like nausea, cramps, fatigue, and mood swings. Add drops of the cedarwood essential oil combined to a tablespoon of carrier oil. Then apply to the lower abdomen or the soles of the feet to regulate hormones and relieve pain.
Treats Chest Infections
Cedarwood oil is effective for eliminating phlegm via the lungs and respiratory tract. People who are asthmatic or suffer from bronchitis and congestion may use few drops of the essential oil while conducting steam inhalation to get immediate relief. Alternatively, you can rub the oil around the chest area before retiring for the night.
Destroys Fungal Infections
Cedarwood essential oil kills fungal infections and protects against fungal pathogens and food poisoning. According to some studies, clove oil, eucalyptus oil, lemongrass, and cinnamon oil, have similar anti-fungal properties as cedarwood essential oil.
Contains Pleasant Aroma
Cedarwood essential oil is a natural deodorizer with a wood-like aroma and has a soothing effect. In fact, inhaling cedarwood oil or incorporating it into a body spray can result in long-lasting healing effects.
Astringent Properties
As an astringent, cedarwood oil helps can cure tooth pains, strengthens the gums on teeth and protects them from falling out. It also helps to prevent diarrhea by tightening the walls of the digestive tract as well as protects the skin against bacteria and toxins.
Provides Relief for Coughs
Cedarwood essential oil helps to significantly eliminate phlegm from the respiratory system and lungs as it reduces congestion in the chest.
Insect Repellant
Cedarwood essential oil can help drive away flies, mosquitoes, flies, and other insects. Simply apply a few drops of oil to the skin to help keep the insects away.
Cures Acne
Cedarwood essential oil protects skin pores from accumulating dust or and dangerous microorganisms that could increase acne and skin infections. The oil is also effective for tightening the facial skin and delaying aging. To naturally prevent acne, add a drop of cedarwood essential oil to your skin lotion, face soap, or simply massage the oil into the skin.
Side Effects and Precautions
- Pregnant women should avoid using cedarwood oil.
- This essential oil could lead to skin irritations for people with chronic sensitive skin problems. It is best to perform a patch test it first before applying the oil to problematic spots of the skin.
- While some essential oils are safe for ingestion or even incorporated into meals, it’s not safe to take cedarwood oil by mouth. Consuming the essential oil can lead to adverse effects such as thirst, nausea, vomiting, or even cause damage to the digestive system.
- People who suffer from high blood pressure level or other cardiovascular issues should, as much as possible, steer clear of cedarwood essential oil.
