Cedarwood (Virginia)

Latin name: Juniperus Virginiana
Part used: Wood
Origin: USA
Extraction method: Steam distillation
Use: for external use only (never ingest), suitable for fragrance burner/diffuser, diluted in a fragrance-neutral carrier oil in the (foot) bath and on the skin (undiluted essential oil can irritate sensitive skin). 

Cedarwood is actually a plant originating from cold climates and is normally found at high altitudes. The health benefits of cedarwood essential oil can be attributed to its properties as an antiseborrheic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, relaxing, expectorant, insecticide, calming and antifungal agent. 

Cedarwood essential oil relieves the symptoms of seborrhea. Seborrhea or seborrheic eczema is a terrible disease caused by a malfunction of the sebaceous glands. This results in increased sebum production and subsequent infection of the epidermal cells. It looks very ugly, because the skin, colored white or light yellow, starts to peel off, especially from the scalp, eyebrows, inner ear and everywhere there are hair follicles. Cedarwood oil can be useful in healing this inflammatory condition and can reduce this skin flaking, regulate sebum production and counteract the infection. The oil also reduces the ugly redness and clear signs of the condition while it is being eliminated. 

Cedarwood oil prevents wounds from becoming septic and also protects them against tetanus germs. By defending the body against toxins, cedarwood essential oil relieves the white blood cells and the immune system of the extra stress, allowing them to protect the internal functions. 

Cedarwood oil can be used as a general health tonic because it strengthens the organ systems and stimulates metabolism. It strengthens the muscles in the skin, stomach and digestive system and regulates brain functions. It increases the functionality of the kidneys and liver, which further improves overall health and well-being.