Cedarwood Atlas

Botanical Name: Cedrus atlantica

Botany and Origins: Cedarwood Atlas is believed to have originated from the famous Lebanon cedars which grow wild in Lebanon and on the island of Cyprus. Cedarwood Atlas is related to Cedrus deodara and Cedrus libani. Cedrus deodara is also known as Cedarwood Himalayan, which grows at high altitude in the Himalaya mountains. Cedrus libani is known as Lebanon cedarwood and grows wild in the mountains of Lebanon and on the island of Cyprus. The tree is protected by law against felling or any kind of exploitation. Any oil offered as Lebanon cedarwood oil is most likely to be oil distilled from Cedrus atlantica.

Method of Extraction: Cedarwood Atlas is steam distilled from the wood, stumps. The best quality essential oil is obtained from distilling wood chips from tree that are 20 to 30 years old.

Cultivation: Wild Harvested

Historical and Traditional Uses: Cedarwood Atlas was believed to used by the ancient Egyptians for embalming purposes, cosmetics and perfumery. The Lebanon cedar was prized as a building wood. The cedar trees were mentioned in the bible, symbolising everything that was fertile and abundant. In 1698, Nicholas Lemery mentioned the therapeutic name of the oil as a urinary and pulmonary antiseptic. Doctors Michel and Gilbert in France recorded in 1925 the good results obtained in cases of chronic bronchitis. According to the Song of Solomon, cedarwood was used to build Solomon's temple. Cedarwood symbolised abundance, fertility and spiritual strength. The name Cedrus originates from the Arabic word kedron, meaning 'power'.

Pharmacology and Clinical Studies: A clinical study was conducted in which Cedrus atlantica essential oil was used in an aromatherapy massage blend for the treatment of alopecia areata - a disorder in which the hair falls out in patches, producing baldness. Although results were variable, the group using the massage blend containing Cedarwood Atlas showed a significant improvement of 44%.

Indications:

• Lymphatic System: Cedarwood Atlas is reputed to encourage lymphatic drainage and stimulate the breakdown of accumulated fats. It is mildly diuretic and may be used for the treatment of cellulite and oedema.
• Nervous System: It may be used for reducing stress, anxiety and tension.
• Respiratory System: The presence of sesquiterpene ketones gives Cedarwood Atlas essential oil its excellent mucolytic effect and may be used for treating catarrhal conditions, coughs and chronic bronchitis.
• Urinary System: The oil is recommended for the treatment of cystitis and urinary tract infections.
• Skin Care: Because of its astringent and antiseptic properties, it is recommended in hair and skin care for improving oily skin, acne, dandruff and seborrhoea of the scalp. It is also reputed to strengthen hair growth and alleviate dandruff.

Safety: Non irritating and non sensitising and non toxic. Avoid during pregnancy.

Country of Origin: Morocco

Size: 10ml, 30ml, 50ml (for 100ml and above, please contact us)