What is Cedarwood Atlas good for?

As Autumn approaches, my attention often turns towards the wood essential oils; they seem to come to mind easily as the seasons change. Amongst their therapeutic properties, they encourage us to feel soothed and comforted. Perfect for the evenings drawing in and the temperature dropping – almost Hygge-like. Cedarwood Atlas, Cedrus atlanticus, is one of those essential oils, but what is Cedarwood Atlas, and what is it good for?

Origins and History

The oil is steam distilled from the wood of the mighty Cedar tree that can grow up to 35 metres tall in the Atlas mountains of Morocco and Algeria. It has a long traditional usage related to physical complaints of the respiratory system and is also considered strengthening, fortifying and grounding emotionally.

The Ancient Egyptians used Atlas Cedarwood in their embalming process, and it was prized as a building material; vast temples were built from the wood. It came to signify abundance, fertility and strength. The name Cedrus is from the Arabic word Kedron, meaning power.

What is it used for?

This essential oil has a distinct aroma, woody and warm but with an underlying note often described as medicinal or camphoraceous. But to me, it is soft, resinous and soothing. Atlas Cedarwood is used in Aromatherapy to settle emotions, either as a skin tonic or as a gentle decongestant.

It blends well with other wood essential oils like Sandalwood or Frankincense that will encourage a feeling of grounding and strength, whilst bringing a quietening to the breath and therefore leaving you feeling serene. All the wood essential oils have this ability to calm and quieten the breath, which is great for when you are feeling overwhelmed or emotional. It also blends well with the floral and citrus essential oils and the sweeter spices, like Cardamom and Coriander.

Here are some blends for you to try at home.

Grounding & Serene Diffuser Blend

Add the following essential oils to the water in your Aroma Spa Diffuser:

4 drops of Atlas Cedarwood – Cedrus atlanticus

3 drops of Sandalwood – Santalum album

1 drop of Rose Absolute – Rosa damascena

Use when you are feeling overwhelmed and need to feel grounded.

Soothing and Comforting Chest Rub Massage Blend

Add the following essential oils to 20ml of blending oil:

4 drops of Atlas Cedarwood – Cedrus atlanticus

2 drops of Eucalyptus – Eucalyptus globulus

4 drops of Lavender – Lavandula angustifolia

Apply to the chest to soothe and relax a cough.

Skin Nourishing Massage Oil Blend – NOT for the face

Add the following essential oils to 20ml of blending oil:

3 drops of Atlas Cedarwood – Cedrus atlanticus

3 drops of Lavender – Lavandula angustifolia

2 drops of Petitgrain – Citrus aurantium

2 drops of Frankincense – Boswellia carterii

Apply to the body after a shower or bath for soft and nourished skin.

 

It is always important to check the botanical (Latin) name for any essential oil that you want to use, as cautions are assigned to different species. For example, there are a few different Cedarwood essential oils, so make sure you have Cedrus atlanticus for the above blends.

 

Enjoy exploring Cedarwood Atlas, and let us know in the comments or on our social how you use yours.

 

About Jo Kellett

Our essential oil expert, Jo Kellett TIDHA MIFPA CIMI, graduated from the Tisserand Institute of Holistic Aromatherapy in 1996. She returned to the college in 1999 as an Essential Oil Therapeutics Tutor, where she taught until the college closed. Jo runs a successful private Aromatherapy practice in Brighton, specialising in Women’s health. Jo is also an internationally published author and has lectured on the subject of Aromatherapy both in the UK and abroad.

For more information on Jo Kellett, check out her website or Instagram.