Cedarwood Essential Oil: Benefits, Uses & Complete Guide

There's something deeply primordial about the scent of cedar. Ancient temples from King Solomon's in Jerusalem to Japanese Shinto shrines used cedarwood for its durability and sacred fragrance. The Egyptians used it in mummification, and cedar chests have protected precious textiles for centuries.

Today, cedarwood essential oil brings that same grounding, protective quality to aromatherapy. Its warm, woody base note anchors emotional storms, supports restful sleep, and may even promote healthy hair growth. Understanding the different cedarwood varieties helps you choose the right one for your needs.

Understanding Cedarwood Varieties

The term "cedarwood" encompasses several different species, each offering unique properties. True cedars (Cedrus species) are increasingly rare and protected, so most cedarwood essential oils come from alternative species.

Virginia Cedarwood (Juniperus virginiana)

Also called "Eastern Red Cedar," this is actually a juniper, not a true cedar. It's the most commonly available cedarwood oil in North America.

Characteristics:

Scent: Soft, woody, slightly sweet with pencil-like notes
Color: Pale yellow to orange
Key compounds: Cedrol, cedrene
Origin: Eastern United States
Best for: Emotional grounding, insect repellent, men's products

Atlas Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica)

A true cedar from the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, offering a refined, slightly sweet woody scent.

Characteristics:

Scent: Warm, woody, slightly sweet, balsamic
Color: Yellow to amber
Key compounds: Cedrene, atlantone, cedrol
Origin: Morocco (Atlas Mountains)
Best for: Skincare, meditation, premium blends

Himalayan Cedarwood (Cedrus deodara)

Another true cedar, this species comes from the Himalayan region and has a long history in Ayurvedic medicine.

Characteristics:

Scent: Deep, woody, slightly smoky
Color: Yellow to brownish
Key compounds: Himachalene, himachalol
Origin: India, Nepal, Pakistan
Best for: Meditation, respiratory support, Ayurvedic applications

Texas Cedarwood (Juniperus ashei)

A juniper species from the Texas Hill Country, offering a drier, more camphoraceous scent than Virginia cedarwood.

Characteristics:

Scent: Drier, more camphoraceous, less sweet
Color: Colorless to pale yellow
Key compounds: Cedrol, thujopsene
Origin: Texas, USA
Best for: Insect repellent, cleaning products, industrial applications

Research-Backed Benefits

Hair Growth Support

Cedarwood has gained attention for potential hair growth benefits. A 1998 study in Archives of Dermatology examined essential oils for alopecia areata (patchy hair loss). Patients using cedarwood (combined with thyme, rosemary, and lavender) showed significant improvement compared to the control group.

Mechanism: Cedarwood may improve blood circulation to the scalp and balance oil-producing glands, creating better conditions for hair growth.

Best approach: Combine cedarwood with rosemary and lavender in a scalp massage oil for synergistic effects.

Sleep and Relaxation Support

Cedarwood's sedative properties have research backing. A 2017 study found that cedrol, the primary compound in cedarwood, increased sleep time in rats through effects on the autonomic nervous system.

How it works: Cedrol appears to activate the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest), promoting relaxation and sleep onset.

Application insight: Diffuse cedarwood 30 minutes before bedtime or apply diluted to the bottoms of feet for sleep support.

Emotional Grounding and Focus

While less studied clinically, cedarwood's grounding effects are well-documented in aromatherapy practice:

ADHD support: Some practitioners report cedarwood helps improve focus in children and adults with attention difficulties
Meditation enhancement: The deep, woody scent supports contemplative practices
Anxiety reduction: The grounding quality can help anchor scattered or anxious thoughts

Skin Health

Cedarwood's traditional use for skin conditions has some scientific support:

Astringent properties: The oil helps tighten pores and reduce excess oiliness.

Anti-inflammatory action: Research suggests cedarwood compounds can reduce inflammation.

Sebum regulation: Like ylang ylang, cedarwood may help balance skin oil production.

Insect Repellent

Cedarwood's reputation as an insect repellent is well-founded. Research confirms effectiveness against:

Moths (traditional cedar chest use)
Mosquitoes
Fleas
Ants

The EPA has approved cedarwood oil as a biopesticide.

How to Use Cedarwood Essential Oil Safely

Diffusion

Cedarwood's warm, grounding scent works well alone or in blends. Add 4-6 drops to your diffuser.

Sleep support blend:

3 drops cedarwood
3 drops lavender
2 drops vetiver

Focus and concentration blend:

3 drops cedarwood
2 drops rosemary
2 drops lemon

Meditation blend:

3 drops cedarwood
2 drops frankincense
2 drops sandalwood

Diffuse for 30-60 minutes before or during desired activity.

Topical Application

Cedarwood is generally well-tolerated on skin when properly diluted.

Standard dilutions:

Body massage: 2-3% (12-18 drops per ounce carrier)
Facial skincare: 1% (6 drops per ounce carrier)
Scalp treatment: 2% (12 drops per ounce carrier)
Children (6+ years): 1% (6 drops per ounce carrier)

Best carrier oils:

Jojoba (scalp treatments, general use)
Sweet almond (massage)
Rosehip (facial skincare)
Fractionated coconut (light applications)

Scalp Massage for Hair Health

For hair growth support:

Mix 10-12 drops cedarwood per ounce of jojoba oil
Add 8 drops rosemary and 5 drops lavender for synergy
Section hair and apply to scalp
Massage gently for 5 minutes
Leave on 30 minutes to overnight
Shampoo out thoroughly
Repeat 2-3 times weekly for at least 3 months

Natural Insect Repellent

Create an effective, natural repellent:

Combine cedarwood with other repellent oils (citronella, lemongrass, eucalyptus citriodora)
Dilute appropriately for skin application
Reapply every 2-3 hours for best effectiveness
Spray on clothing and around outdoor areas

DIY Cedarwood Recipes

Hair Growth Scalp Serum

A comprehensive treatment for thinning hair:

2 oz jojoba oil
15 drops cedarwood essential oil (Atlas or Virginia)
10 drops rosemary essential oil
8 drops lavender essential oil
5 drops peppermint essential oil

Combine in a dropper bottle. Apply to scalp 2-3 times weekly, massage for 5 minutes, leave on at least 30 minutes before shampooing. Consistent use for 3-6 months before expecting visible results.

Sleep Support Roller

For bedtime relaxation:

10ml roller bottle
Fractionated coconut oil (to fill)
6 drops cedarwood essential oil
5 drops lavender essential oil
3 drops vetiver essential oil

Add oils to roller bottle, fill with carrier. Apply to bottoms of feet, wrists, and back of neck 30 minutes before bed.

Grounding Diffuser Blend for Focus

For study or work sessions:

3 drops cedarwood
2 drops frankincense
2 drops rosemary
1 drop peppermint

Add to diffuser and run for 30-60 minute intervals during work sessions.

Natural Moth Repellent Sachets

Protect stored woolens naturally:

1/4 cup cedar shavings (optional for bulk)
10 drops cedarwood essential oil
5 drops lavender essential oil
5 drops clove essential oil

Combine oils with cedar shavings in a cloth sachet. Refresh with additional oils every few months. Place in closets, drawers, and storage containers.

Men's Beard Oil

A conditioning, masculine-scented treatment:

1 oz jojoba oil
1 oz argan oil
10 drops cedarwood essential oil
6 drops sandalwood essential oil
4 drops black pepper essential oil

Combine in a dropper bottle. Apply 3-5 drops to beard after showering, working through hair to skin beneath.

Calming Body Lotion

For dry skin and relaxation:

4 oz unscented natural lotion
20 drops cedarwood essential oil
15 drops lavender essential oil
10 drops frankincense essential oil

Add essential oils to lotion, mix thoroughly. Apply after bathing for moisturized, lightly scented skin.

Buying Guide: Choosing Quality Cedarwood Oil

Species Selection

Choose based on your primary use:

Atlas Cedarwood: Premium aromatherapy, skincare, meditation
Virginia Cedarwood: General aromatherapy, affordable everyday use
Himalayan Cedarwood: Ayurvedic applications, deep meditation
Texas Cedarwood: Insect repellent, cleaning, practical applications

Quality Indicators

Species clearly stated: Botanical name should be specified (Cedrus atlantica, Juniperus virginiana, etc.)
Origin stated: Morocco for Atlas, USA for Virginia/Texas, India for Himalayan
Appropriate color: Pale yellow to amber depending on variety
Complex woody scent: Should smell naturally woody, not synthetic or flat
Price point: Atlas costs more than Virginia or Texas varieties

Price Expectations

Atlas Cedarwood: $12-20 per 10ml
Virginia Cedarwood: $6-12 per 10ml
Texas Cedarwood: $5-10 per 10ml
Himalayan Cedarwood: $10-18 per 10ml

What to Avoid

Generic "cedarwood" without species identification
Very cheap prices (may indicate synthetic or adulterated oil)
Harsh, artificial, or turpentine-like smell
Oil sold in clear glass or plastic containers

Storage Tips

Store in dark glass away from heat and light
Cedarwood has good shelf life (4-5 years when stored properly)
The scent deepens and improves with age
Refrigeration not necessary

Historical and Cultural Significance

Biblical References

Cedarwood appears throughout the Bible, most famously in the construction of King Solomon's Temple. The "cedars of Lebanon" symbolized strength, nobility, and divine presence.

Ancient Egyptian Use

Egyptians used cedarwood oil in the mummification process and as a preservative. The oil's antimicrobial properties helped protect against decay.

Native American Traditions

Many Native American tribes burned cedar for purification ceremonies, viewing the smoke as carrying prayers to the spirit world and clearing negative energies.

Japanese Shinrin-yoku

The Japanese practice of "forest bathing" often takes place in cedar forests, where the volatile compounds (including cedrol) contribute to stress reduction and immune enhancement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cedarwood safe for children?

Cedarwood is generally considered safe for children over 6 years old when properly diluted (1% or less). For younger children, consult a qualified aromatherapist or healthcare provider.

Can cedarwood really help with hair loss?

Research suggests cedarwood can support hair growth, particularly when combined with rosemary, lavender, and thyme. Results require consistent use over several months. It may be more effective for some types of hair loss than others.

What's the difference between true cedar and "cedarwood" oils?

True cedars (Cedrus species) like Atlas and Himalayan produce authentic cedar oils. Virginia and Texas "cedarwood" come from juniper species. All have therapeutic value, but true cedars are generally considered superior for aromatherapy.

Is cedarwood effective as an insect repellent?

Yes, research confirms cedarwood's insect-repelling properties. While not as potent as DEET, it provides a natural alternative when reapplied regularly. It's particularly effective against moths, making it ideal for protecting stored woolens.

Can I use cedarwood during pregnancy?

Most sources recommend avoiding cedarwood during pregnancy due to potential emmenagogue effects. Consult your healthcare provider before using any essential oils during pregnancy.

Why does my cedarwood smell like pencils?

Virginia cedarwood is actually the wood used in traditional pencils, so the familiar "pencil" scent is authentic cedarwood aroma. This association comes from generations of pencil-sharpening, not from any added fragrance.

Last updated: December 30, 2025. This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils therapeutically.