Cedarwood Juniperus virginiana
Specifics
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| Country of Origin: USA | Extraction Method: Steam Distilled |
| Chemical Families: Sesquiterpenes, Sesquiterpenols | Plant Part: Wood |
| Cultivation: Unsprayed | Botanical Families: Cupressaceae |
| Aromas: Balsamic, Sweet, Woody | |
| Note: Middle/Base |
Personal Experience, Research, Possible Actions
Cedarwood is traditionally considered a male fragrance and is often used in men's cosmetic products. 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.
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Traditional Knowledge
- 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)
- CNS tonic, sedative
- Tonifying to the veins and lymph
Emotional and Energetic Qualities
Increases strength and endurance during difficult times
Encourages 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.
