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Essential Oil Profile Directory

Essential Oil Profile: Cedarwood (Himalayan)

April 14, 2020

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.



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