Cedarwood- Juniperus virginiana Juniperus virginiana
Specifics
| Country of Origin: USA | Extraction Method: Steam Distilled |
| Chemical Families: Sesquiterpenes, Sesquiterpenols | Plant Part: Wood |
| Aromas: Balsamic, Sweet, Woodsy | Cultivation: Unsprayed |
About
Cedarwood is traditionally considered a male fragrance and is often used in cosmetic products for men. Its sweet, woody aroma is often incorporated into blends as a base note, giving strength and stability to the aroma. It appears to offer these same properties on a mental/emotional level as well.
Cedarwood is great to blend into a cream for the chest to relieve congestion and suppress coughing. It has a stimulating effect on the respiratory system and is especially useful when an infection is present. Its astringent and antiseptic qualities make it useful in skin care, especially for acne. It can also be used for itchy skin and for nourishing the hair.
This Cedarwood is from the Cupressaceae family. (Cypress trees share this family.) The chemistry of this particular Cedarwood (Juniperus virginiana) includes 24% cedrol, which has a tonifying effect on the lymph system and veins.
Cedarwood is great to blend into a cream for the chest to relieve congestion and suppress coughing. It has a stimulating effect on the respiratory system and is especially useful when an infection is present. Its astringent and antiseptic qualities make it useful in skin care, especially for acne. It can also be used for itchy skin and for nourishing the hair.
This Cedarwood is from the Cupressaceae family. (Cypress trees share this family.) The chemistry of this particular Cedarwood (Juniperus virginiana) includes 24% cedrol, which has a tonifying effect on the lymph system and veins.
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Therapeutic Properties
- Anti-infectious - helps the body strengthen immunity and throw off the illness
- Antiseptic - assists in fighting germs/infections (urinary, pulmonary)
- Astringent - contracts and tightens tissue/ bacteriostatic (inhibits)
- Diuretic - decongesting for lymph and veins
- Expectorant - removes excess mucus from respiratory system
- Insecticide - insect repellent
- Mucolytic - breaks down mucus (pulmonary)
- Nervous system tonic and sedative
- Tonifying to the veins and lymph
Emotional and Energetic Qualities
Increases strength and endurance during difficult timesEncourages the ability to hold steady and persevere
Supports confidence in challenging situations
Grounding
Recipe
Lymph Massage Oil
5 drops Cedarwood (Juniperus virginiana)
5 drops Mastic
5 drops Eucalyptus smithii
5 drops Lemon
Blend in 1 oz. cream or carrier oil.
References:
1. Battaglia S. The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. 2nd edition, The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Australia, 2003
2. Tisserand R. The Art of Aromatherapy, Healing Arts Press, USA, 1977
Safety Issues
No safety issues specific to this oil. Many sources tell us to avoid Cedarwood oil during pregnancy. There is no research to support this claim with Juniperus virginiana. The existing uncertainty may be due in part to the many different types of Cedarwood oils.
