Cedarwood, Virginia - Juniperous virginiana

History: Native Americans made a dark tea from the berries and leaves for dysentery, coughs, colds, flu and for an antiseptic mouth rinse. Cedar branches were soaked in warm water and applied to foreheads for headaches. They also used cedar to treat mumps. Smoking leaves and branches were used to relieve head colds, chest congestion and to promote childbirth.

Characteristics: The Virginia Cedarwood is a slow-growing, coniferous evergreen, reaching heights of 33 metres. It has a reddish heartwood and bears brown cones. Also known as Red Cedar, it is from the family Cupressacea. Originally used by native North Americans, Cedar is an important ornamental and timber tree of eastern North America whose fragrant wood is made into cabinets, fence posts, and pencils.

Clinical Studies:

Indications:  Used for acne, dandruff, eczema, greasy hair, insect repellent, oily skin, psoriasis, arthritis, rheumatism, bronchitis, catarrh, congestion, coughs, sinusitis, cystitis, nervous tension and stress disorders.

Personality Profile:

Subtle Aromatherapy:

Mode of Administration: Bath, cleansers, compress, inhaler, massage, mist spray, perfumes, soap, steam inhalation.

Safety: Dilute before use; for external use only. May cause skin irritation in some individuals; a skin test is recommended prior to use. Contact with eyes should be avoided.

References:
Battaglia, S.  The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Australia, 2005
Tisserand R. Young R.  Essential Oil Safety, second edition.  Churchhill Livingstone, UK, 2013
Sheppard-Hanger S. The Aromatherapy Practitioner Reference Manual.  Atlantic Institute of Aromatherapy, USA, 2000
Caddy R. Essential Oils in Colour.  Amberwood Publishing, UK, 2005
Lawless J. The encyclopaedia of Essential Oils.  Element Books Limited, GB, 1992
Caddy R. the Essential Blending Guide.  Amberwood Publishing, UK, 2007
Weaver W.W. Sauer’s Herbal Cures.  Routledge, UK, 2001
World Wide Web Encyclopeadia Britannica. USA, 2014
Photos attribution – istock Photos

Safety Considerations:
        Do not take essential oils internally.
        Do not apply to eyes, sensitive areas or mucous membranes.
        Do not apply undiluted to skin (for directions on proper dilution refer to an aromatherapy text).
        The information on this website is not intended to diagnose or prescribe.
        Pregnant women, nursing mothers and children should not use essential oils without first consulting a healthcare provider.
        The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the FDA.
        You should not use this information for treating a health problem or disease or to make a self-diagnosis.
        Contact your Health Care provider immediately if you suspect that you have a medical problem.

 Information and statements regarding Kelley products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health condition or disease.  All information, content and product descriptions contained within this site is for reference purposes and is not intended to substitute advice given by a pharmacist, physician, or other licensed health-care professional. You should not use this information for treating a health problem or disease or to make a self-diagnosis.  Contact your Health Care provider immediately if you suspect that you have a medical problem.