Cedarwood Virginian (Red Cedar)

Product Description

Botanical name

Juniperus virginiana

Extraction method / Source

Steam distillation from wood chips, sawdust, wood shavings

Aroma

Sweet balsamic, becomes more woody as the oil dries out

Note

Base

Odor Intensity

3

Key constituents

Thujopsene, Cedrol, Alpha-cedrene, various sesquiterpenes, Beta-cedrene, widdrol.

Plant description

Botanical family: Cupressaceae

The Virginian Cedar tree is a slow growing evergreen bush with a narrow pyramidal crown. It is native to the Eastern states of the USA and South America. The bush is about 2-6 feet in height and sometimes reaches as high as 15 feet.

Regions of Production

Eastern USA

Growing Practices

Managed forest -- cultivated without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides

History / Fun Facts

Virginia Cedar is also called Aromatic Cedar. The wood from Juniperus virginiana is prized for furniture making, with it's beautiful reddish heartwood. Extracts made of various tree parts have traditionally been used as an insect repellent, and to treat cough, bronchitis, rheumatism, and skin rashes.

Properties

Analgesic, antiseptic, astringent, anti-seborrheic, diuretic, emmenogogue, expectorant, insecticide, sedative

Please refer to the Glossary for terms which may be new to you.

Uses / Benefits

An excellent insect repellent. Tonifying to kidneys, spleen, and pancreas. Useful for lower backache. A detoxifier, and eases the pain of swelling due to menstruation, rheumatism, and arthritis. It is disinfectant and analgesic, anti-fungal, astringent, aphrodisiac, blood purifying, expectorant and healing. Lends a sweet, woody note in natural perfume making.

Fragrant influences

Helps reduce anxiety and nervous tension – most useful for chronic conditions. Uplifting and refreshing, and it improves mental clarity, focus and memory.

Modes of Administration

Topical: massage, compress, sitz bath, bath, skin care.

Inhalation: direct inhalation, diffuser, oil vaporizer.

Blends well with

Bergamot, Cedarwood, Clary Sage, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Fennel, Frankincense, Geranium, Grapefruit, Lavender, Lemon, Mandarin, Pine, Rosemary, Sage, Sandalwood, Vetiver

Safety

Do not use if you have kidney problems. Do not use during pregnancy or while breast feeding. All cedarwood essential oils contain thujon, and should not be taken internally.

Notice

This information is for educational purposes only. It has not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease, and should not take the place of evaluation by a qualified health professional. Although we strive to provide information which is accurate and up to date, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

Precautions

Pure essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. Do not use them undiluted, or in the eyes or mucus membranes. If applying an essential oil to the skin, always dilute it with a proper carrier oil and test on a small patch of skin before applying to a large area. Do not take them internally except under the direction of a qualified professional trained in Aromatherapy. Always familiarize yourself with the safety, contraindications and proper preparation of each essential oil before use. Note that when using essential oils for children and the elderly, very low concentrations should be used. Keep all essential oils away from children and pets.

References 

TIMELESS Essential Oils guarantees the purity and quality of all our therapeutic oils.  The current Certificate of Analysis is available upon request.  All essential oils are best stored in an airtight container away from heat and light.