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by Amelia E. Hoard, RN
Common Name: Cedarwood (Himalayan)
Synonyms: Deodar cedarwood
Latin Binomial: Cedrus deodara
Family: Pinaceae
Production Method: steam distallation of wood
Countries of Origin: Himalayan mountains from eastern Afganistan to north western India.
Typical Constituents: a- Himachalene (20.0-30.0%), a-Cedrene (12.0-16.0%), b-Himachalene (8.0-13.0%), [E]-a-Atlantone (5.0-7.0%), Deodarone (4.0-6.0%), [Z]-a-Atlantone (2.0-3.0%), b-Cedrene (0.5-1.5%), allo-Himachalol (0.5-1.5%), Cedrol (1.0-2.0%), Himachalol (1.0-2.0%)
Description of Oil: Yellow to brownish yellow, slightly viscous liquid with a clean balsamic woody odor.
Description of Plant: A 120 foot conifer.
History, Folklore and Myth: Used by the ancient egyptians for embalming, cosmetics, and pufumery. The oil was an ingredient in a renowned poison antidote that was used for centuries. Traditionally used in the East for bronchial and urinary infections, as a preservative and incense. In the bible cedar trees are symbolic of abundance, fertility and spiritual strength.
Properties and Uses: Acne, dandruff, dermatitis, eczema, fungal infections, oily skin, hair loss, skin eruptions, ulcers, bronchitis, arthritis, rheumatism, relieves nervous tension and stress, promotes sleep, mental clarity & aides meditation.
Precautions and Contraindications: None known
Other Interesting Information: Chemically and biologically similar to cedarwood (atlas).
References:
Battaglia, Salvatore. The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. Virginia, Queensland, Australia: The Perfect Potion. 1995.
Tisserand, Robert, and Tony Balacs. Essential Oil Safety: A Guide for Health Care Professionals. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone. 1995.