Cedarwood (Atlas)

Botanical Name:                   Cedrus atlantica
Synonym:                              Atlantic Cedar, Moroccan cedarwood
Botanical Family:                  Pinaceae
Country of Origin:                 Native to Atlas mountains of Algeria
Plant Part:                             Wood
Extraction Method:               Steam distillation
Characteristics:                    Warm, woody, balsamic
Properties:                            Antiseptic, astringent, diuretic, expectorant, insecticide, sedative
Chemical Constituents:       Cedrol, cadinene, cedrene, cedrenol
 
Indications:
 
Mind & Spirit:           
                       
Greatly benefits those suffering from anxiety and nervous tension.
Aids meditation. 
It is very warming and grounding. 
 
Body:                         
 
Valuable on the respiratory tract,
Easing conditions such as bronchitis, coughs and catarrh. 
Helpful in removing excess phlegm. 
Beneficial with treating kidney and bladder infections such as cystitis.
Benefits oily skin conditions and clears dermatitis and psoriasis. 
 
Contraindications:                Nil
Note:                                       Base
Odour Intensity:                    Un-referred
 
Blends well with:                  Bergamot, cinnamon, cypress, frankincense, jasmine, juniper, lavender, lemon, neroli, patchouli, rose, orange, sandalwood, rosemary, ylang ylang, vetiver
 
Traditions:                 
Cedars are thought to offer longevity and are traditionally grown in graveyards.  The ancient Egyptians used Cedarwood as part of their embalming process.  It is also one of the oldest aromatics used as temple incense.  The oil was also an Eastern remedy for the treatment of gonorrhoea when Sandalwood was unavailable.  It is said to cure baldness and skin complaints such as eczema and is a popular fixative in perfumes.