Essential Oil of the Month: Cedar
In my decades-long Aromatherapy practice, I have come to believe this ancient, strengthening, essential oil is greatly underrated and underappreciated. I have personally found it essential in grounding, protecting, and fortifying in times of uncertainty or crisis. I especially like to use it as an anointment to the solar plexus chakra (the area of self-confidence and power) before a speaking engagement or an important interview to bolster courage and focus. Its deep, warm, balsamic fragrance lends a comforting presence and bolsters inner-confidence, strength, and stability.
The genus word Cedrus is derived from the Arabic word Kedron, meaning power. Its Latin designation deodara evolved from the Sanskrit word that loosely translates to “wood of the gods.” Throughout the ages, Cedar has held a close connection to gods of various belief systems, from the ancient Egyptian god Osiris to the Nordic god Wotan.
There are many different types of oils referred to as Cedar. It is important that they not be confused with other “cedars” such as Texas Cedarwood or Virginia Cedarwood, which are actually Junipers. Checking the Latin binomial will help, i.e., Cedrus deodara or Cedrus atlantica as opposed to Juniperus virginiana. While junipers may have useful properties, they are much different than our essential oil Cedrus deodora or even Cedar Atlas, a closely related essential oil.
Commonly known as Himalayan Cedar, Cedrus deodara trees originated within the high forests of the Himalayas where they are considered holy. Many temples and palaces were constructed of this sturdy wood, owing to its antibacterial, antifungal properties and its ability to repel insects. As a matter of fact, in the Song of Solomon in the Bible, Cedar was noted as being used to build Solomon’s temple. As with ancient East Indian sages, and Buddhist monks of the Himalayas, today it is still used as an excellent oil for meditation.
Cedar offers many benefits to mind, body, spirit and home:
For the mind: Steadies the mind, bolsters strength and confidence, calms nerves, sharpens focus and concentration. Its relaxing energy helps calm racing thoughts and deepen sleep.
For the body: Strengthening for the respiratory system, its antibacterial and decongesting properties make it helpful for coughing, congestion, and assists breathing. Its anti-inflammatory properties aid muscle and joint pain and stiffness. It’s also tonifying and strengthening to kidneys.
For skin and hair: Cleansing and restorative, cedar can help soothe irritation, redness, itchiness, and dryness. Stimulates circulation, slows hair loss, and adds luster. Anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties may relieve a flaky scalp.
For spirit: Grounding and protective, deepens meditation, brings spiritual strength, peace, self-acceptance, and love. Restores confidence, eases tension and stress. Provides a feeling of safety.
For the home: Antibacterial and cleansing properties help reduce airborne bacteria and odors; antifungal properties may prevent the development of mildew; insecticidal properties may repel insects.
For a relaxing meditation blend to ground, protect, and enhance breathing:
4 drops Cedar (Cedrus deodara)
1 drop Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata)
3 drops Frankincense (Boswellia carterii)
2 drops Lavender (Lavendula vera or angustafolia)
For diffuser: Drop the above essential oils into a glass container.
Use 3 to 5 drops of the blend in a diffuser, depending on size of room.
For anointing: Add the above recipe to 10ml. (2 teaspoons or 1/3oz.) of jojoba oil. Warm the oil blend in your hands while setting your intentions, prayers, or breathe into the oil blend. Drop one drop on the end of your finger and place it on your area of meditation: heart (center of chest) for opening to love; third eye (above and between eyebrows) for deep meditation; solar plexus (approximately 3 inches above the navel) for courage and self-confidence. Breathe in deeply, then focus on the out-breath, letting go of tension. Feel the stress melt from your body.
Popular Cedar Products
PRECAUTIONS: Avoid eye and nose area. Though generally considered safe to use topically when properly diluted, as with all essential oils, if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or have a medical condition, always check with your physician before using.