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Cedarwood Oil ❧
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| Cypress |
Although termed cedar or cedarwood oils, the most important oils of this group are produced from distilling wood of a number of different junipers and cypresses rather than true cedars. A cedar leaf oil is also commercially distilled from the Eastern arborvitae, and similar oils are distilled, pressed or chemically extracted in small quantities from wood, roots and leaves.
Cedarwood oils each have characteristic woody odors which may change somewhat in the course of drying out. They find use (sometimes after rectification) in a range of fragrance applications such as soap perfumes, household sprays, floor polishes and insecticides.
Today, cedar oil is often used for its aromatic properties, especially in aromatherapy; it can also be used to renew the smell of natural cedar furniture. Cedar oil is used as an insect repellent, both directly applied to the skin and as an additive to sprays, candles and other products.
In India, oil from the deodar cedar (Cedrus deodara, a true cedar) has been shown to possess insecticidal and antifungal properties and to have some potential for control of fungal deterioration of spices during storage.
Cedarwood oil is a mixture of organic compounds considered generally safe by the FDA as a food additive preservative. The oil is used as an antibacterial and fungicide.
CEDAR OIL USES
Cedarwood can be used in a blended massage oil, or diluted in the bath to assist with asthma, bronchitis, respiratory problems, catarrh, cystitis, painful joints, oily skin and dandruff. Care must be taken that it does not cause irritation to the mucus membranes.
When diluted in a cream, cedarwood oil is of great value for combating oily skin and related problems, as well as dermatitis and psoriasis, while bringing relief to the scalp from dandruff.
Oils such as Bergamot, Cinnamon, Frankincense, Juniper, Jasmine, Lemon, Lime, Lavender, Rose, and Rosemary blend well with Cedarwood Oil.
Acne - As an astringent, cedarwood oil creates a protective shield, as a treatment against oily skin, a skin tightener, protecting from toxins and bacteria.
Antispasmodic - Relieves spasms and related ailments, including spasms that affect the respiratory system, intestines, muscles, heart and nerves. People that have trouble sleeping due to restless leg syndrome, respiratory seizures, asthma, and other spasmodic conditions also find relief from the soothing properties of cedarwood oil.
Astringent - It tightens loose muscles and gives a feeling of firmness, fitness and youth. This property can also be used to cure diarrhea, by tightening the muscles of the digestive system and contracting those spasm-prone muscles. As an astringent, cedarwood oil is also a useful tool for protecting the skin from toxins and bacteria. Astringent substances also cause skin proteins to coagulate, where they then dry and harden, forming a protective shield on the applied area.
Antiseptic - Cedarwood oil is used as an ingredient in herbal antiseptic creams. It’s antiseptic properties can protect wounds from tetanus germs. The cedarwood oil relieves the white blood cells and immune system of the extra stress.
Arthritis & Rheumatism - Cedarwood oil has anti-inflammatory effects on arthritis, rheumatic disorders, as well as the accumulation of toxins in muscles and joints. The inflammation of the joints and tissues that results in such debilitating pain or discomfort can be somewhat lessened by the inhalation or topical application of the oil on the skin.
Cold & Flu - Cedarwood oil alleviates irritation from cough, and cold related symptoms. It efficiently removes phlegm from the respiratory tracts and lungs, relieving congestion. It also gives relief from headaches and red and watery eyes.
Diuretic - As a diuretic, it stimulates metabolism, increases the frequency of urination, which works to remove fat, excess water and toxins like uric acid from the body.
Eczema (Seborrhoeic) - Cedarwood oil can be beneficial in treating inflammation and reduce peeling skin.
Fungicide - Inhalation of cedarwood oil protects against various types of plant, animal, and human fungal pathogens, both external and internal.
Insecticide - Repels and resists moths, mosquitoes, cockroaches, silverfish and mildew. It can be used in a vaporizer or spray, to ward off mosquitoes, flies and other insects in a large area around the house. Mix 1 tablespoon of Aloe Vera gel with two tablespoons of olive oil, and add 20 drops of cedar essential oil. Mix it thoroughly and put in a spray bottle (8 oz). Mixture can be applied to your skin or clothes.
Insomnia - Its medicinal soothing and calming properties make it a good sedative, while relieving tension and anxiety to induce sleep. In aromatherapy applications, the scent can induce the release of serotonin, which is converted into melatonin, inducing fatigue and calm. Cedarwood aromatherapy is recommended for people with chronic anxiety, stress, and depression as well.
Menstruation - It stimulates and induces menstruation, as well as regularizes cycle. Cedarwood oil can impact the hormonal function of various glands in the endocrine system, relieving pain, nausea, fatigue, and mood swings associated with menstruation.
Skin Irritations - Cedarwood oil’s relieves itching. Its astringent action is also great for acne, dermatitis, oily skin, as well as for hair and dandruff.
Tooth Ache - Cedarwood oil, used as an astringent, helps to relieve toothaches and strengthen gums.
SIDE EFFECTS
Carrot seed oil is not toxic and said to have few side effects when used properly.
Cedarwood oil overdose may cause vomiting, nausea, and thirst, and extensive damage to the digestive system. To prevent undesirable health results, one should seek a doctor’s or natural holistic practitioner's advice before orally taking any type of essential oil.
As with other essential oils, cedarwood oil should not be taken by individuals with a history of epilepsy (may trigger overstimulation) or during pregnancy (may cause bleeding).
Performing a skin test before use is recommended. Cedarwood oil may cause skin irritations if used in high concentrations. Put a drop of cedarwood oil on a small portion of your skin and wait 24 hours. If any sign of skin irritation occurs, discontinue its use.
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