7 cedarwood oil benefits you should know

Essential oils not only smell great, but they also have several benefits for your skin, hair, and overall health. One of the best oils is cedarwood essential oil, which is made from different parts of the cedar tree. This oil may help with hair loss, acne, and sleep issues. There are other benefits of cedarwood oil that you should know about. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not monitor the purity or quality of essential oils of any kind, but you can use them. When inhaling cedarwood oil or applying it to your skin or hair, be sure to use it correctly. This oil can cause skin irritation and cough if not used properly.

What is cedarwood oil?

Essential oil extracted from cedar wood, leaves, and bark. “With a warm, woody scent, this oil is comprised of beneficial compounds such as cedrol, thujopsen, and alpha cedrene,” says cosmetic physician and cosmetologist Dr. Karuna Malhotra. It is widely used in aromatherapy, skin care, and hair care due to its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

There are several types of cedarwood oil, each extracted from a different type of cedarwood.

• Atlas Cedarwood Oil is sourced from Cedrus atlantica, which is primarily found in Morocco.
• Himalayan cedarwood oil extracted from Cedrus deodara, which is native to the Himalayas.
• Texas cedarwood oil is obtained from Juniperus ashei, a species of juniper found in the southwestern United States.
• Virginia Cedarwood Oil: Extracted from Juniperus virginiana, a plant commonly found in North America.

7 benefits of cedarwood oil

Here are 7 benefits of cedarwood oil you should know about.

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1. May promote hair growth

This oil is known to stimulate hair follicles, promote hair growth, and thicken existing hair. In a 2022 study published in scientific african According to the Journal, cedarwood oil and rosemary oil were found to be effective in promoting hair growth when used together. “Hair growth is one of the benefits of cedarwood oil, as it promotes blood circulation to the scalp and balances sebum production. Thanks to this, it may also help with conditions such as hair thinning,” says an expert.

2. Calms the scalp

It may help get rid of problems such as dandruff and itching. According to a study published in , this oil has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. food chemistry “These properties can soothe scalp irritations such as dandruff, itching, and dryness,” say experts.

3. May fight acne

Acne is a common inflammatory skin disease that causes clogged skin pores. In a 2016 study published in Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicinecedarwood oil was found to help control acne. The anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties of this essential oil help treat acne by soothing the skin and reducing irritation.

4. May improve sleep quality

One of the benefits of cedarwood oil may be that it improves sleep quality. A 2003 study published in Planta Medica The journal evaluated the sedative effects of cedrol, the main ingredient in cedarwood oil. Researchers have found that inhaling this oil has a sedative effect. “Its grounding, woody scent promotes relaxation and is especially helpful for those who suffer from insomnia and restlessness,” says Dr. Malhotra.

5. May reduce stress

It can be an effective natural remedy against stress. In a 2017 study published in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Healthcedarwood essential oil was found to reduce stress and improve mental health. Its sedative effects may also promote mental clarity and concentration.

6. May act as a natural insect repellent

With dengue cases on the rise, it is recommended to use this oil. “This oil acts as a natural insect repellent due to its strong aroma, which is unpleasant for many insects such as mosquitoes. It is often used in natural insect repellents to protect the skin,” says the expert .

7. May support respiratory health

This essential oil has antiseptic and expectorant properties, so it can help clear mucus from your airways when you have a cold. “These properties may help relieve nasal congestion while improving breathing and supporting respiratory health,” experts say.

Benefits of Cedarwood Oil: Tips for Use

1. Hair growth

• Mix this oil with a carrier oil such as jojoba oil or coconut oil and gently massage it into your scalp.
• Leave it on for about 30 minutes, then wash it off with mild shampoo and water.

2. Calms the scalp

• Add a few drops of cedarwood oil to your shampoo or conditioner, or mix it with a carrier oil.
• Massaging the scalp provides a soothing effect.

3. How to fight acne

• Dilute this essential oil with a carrier oil and apply it to the acne-prone area.
• You can also add a few drops to your regular skin care routine, such as a moisturizer or facial serum.

4. How to improve your sleep quality

• Use a diffuser with a few drops of cedarwood oil in your bedroom before bed.
• Alternatively, place a drop on your pillow or the soles of your feet.

5. How to reduce stress

• Diffuse cedarwood oil into your living and work areas to create a calming environment.
• You can also massage it into your wrists and neck or add it to a warm bath to reduce stress.

6. Use as an insect repellent

• Mix with a carrier oil and apply to uncovered skin.
• You can also put a few drops in a diffuser or spray bottle to help repel bugs.

7. For respiratory diseases

• Diffuse cedarwood oil into your room, especially during cold and flu season.
• Add a few drops of this oil to hot water and inhale the steam to help ease your breathing.

What are the side effects of cedarwood oil?

Essential oils containing cedarwood are highly concentrated and can cause irritation to the respiratory tract if inhaled directly. american lung association. This can cause symptoms such as:

• cough
• inflammation of the nose and throat
• shortness of breath

“Some people experience skin irritation or allergic reactions while using this oil. Always use it diluted and avoid direct contact with broken skin,” advises Dr. Malhotra.

Benefits of cedarwood oil include hair growth, improved sleep quality, and reduced stress. However, do not use it directly; be sure to dilute it before applying or inhaling it.