Cedarwood essential oil is a common ingredient in various household products like air fresheners, insect repellants and candles, as well as a bunch of personal care goods such as soaps and shampoos. Did you know that cedarwood essential oil may also be used topically for the attainment of physical and mental wellness?
Wondering where cedarwood essential oil comes from? Well, it is obtained by means of steam distillation from wood pieces of the cedarwood tree, which is native to parts of the planet with high altitudes and cold climates.
As expected, the fragrance of cedarwood essential oil is one that’s warm and woody, and it’s for such reason why it can be very relaxing. Experts in aromatherapy say that this particular volatile oil goes very well with many other essential oils, namely jasmine, cinnamon, bergamot, patchouli, sandalwood, thyme, neroli and rosemary.
Let’s now take a look at some of the most incredible health benefits of cedarwood essential oil:
It Increases Urine Production
Scientists say that cedarwood essential oil possesses mild diuretic properties. This only means that taking a whiff of it can cause an increase in the production of urine. A bunch of perks comes with boosting urine production. For instance, individuals who wish to drop a couple of pounds instantly may lose water weight with the help of cedarwood essential oil. This oil may also be beneficial for people suffering from hypertension or high blood pressure.
It Eases PMS Symptoms
Women who are often troubled by premenstrual syndrome or PMS may rely on cedarwood each time. It’s for the fact that this volatile oil can help alleviate some of its nastiest symptoms such as nausea, dizziness and even mood swings. Those who have irregular menstruation may also employ cedarwood essential oil.
It Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Taking a whiff of cedarwood essential oil can help in lowering your stress levels, thus saving you from the complications it brings if it’s left unmanaged. The smell of cedarwood essential oil is also beneficial for people who are suffering from anxiety attacks due to its relaxing properties. Needless to say, it’s the ability of this volatile oil to calm you down why it may also be utilized for dealing with insomnia.
It Relieves Upper Airway Congestion
Having the common cold, cough or flu can be extremely distressing if it leaves the nasal passages and upper airways clogged up by excessive amounts of thick phlegm. When this happens, you may use cedarwood essential oil to manage breathing difficulties. To use the said essential oil, simply place a few drops of it in a basin of hot water. Drape a large towel over your head while bending over to have your face placed a few inches from the basin. Inhale the steam produced to thin phlegm, allowing you to breathe more comfortably as well as alleviating chest pain.
It Wards Off Pesky Insects
Cedarwood essential oil is revered for its ability to keep mosquitoes and other insects away. You may use this oil with a warm and woody aroma by adding a few drops of it to your favorite carrier oil or lotion, and then applying it on parts of your body that aren’t concealed by clothing. You may also rely on a diffuser for the job.
JUST A FEW WORDS BEFORE YOU START USING IT: Unlike other beneficial essential oils out there, cedarwood essential oil is not suitable for oral consumption. This is true even if the bottle you have is the therapeutic grade. Diluting it with your preferred carrier oil prior to skin application is recommended because high concentrations of it may leave your skin irritated. And just like when employing any essential oil for therapeutic purposes, it’s a good idea to let your doctor know about your plan on using cedarwood essential oil if you are in the family way or breastfeeding, or you are diagnosed with a medical condition and taking prescription drugs for it.
