Cedar leaf was used as an incense by ancient civilizations for ritual purposes. A decoction of leaves was one time made, for coughs, fever, cystitis, venereal disease, and intestinal parasites. Ointments were one time made from cedar leaf for gouts, warts, rheumatism and psoriasis. The twigs are currently listed in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia for their effective treatment for bronchitis, warts, weakness and cardiac problems.

Cedar leaf is a graceful, pyramid-shaped conifer that grows up to 65 feet tall. It has scale-like leaves and broad winged seeds. The tree must be at least 15 years old before it is ready to be used for essential oil production. The essential oil is extracted by steam distillation from the leaves, twigs and bark. The oil is a colorless-pale yellow-green liquid with a sharp, fresh, camphorous scent.

Cedar leaf oil is used in pharmaceutical products such as disinfectants and sprays. It is also used as a counter-irritant in analgesic ointments and liniments. The fragrance is a component in some toiletries and perfumes. Cedar leaf’s properties have been claimed to be: Antibacterial, Antiseptic, Anti-rheumatic, a Diuretic, an Expectorant, an Insect Repellent and a Stimulant.

This oil may help: DANDRUFF, HAIR LOSS, RESPIRATORY PROBLEMS, BUILD RESISTANCE TO FUNGI AND BACTERIA, AND REPEL INSECTS.

Cedar leaf is native to north-eastern North America. It is cultivated in France. The oil is mainly produced in Canada and the USA.

Chemical constituents are Thujone (approximately 60 %), fenchone, camphor, sabinene, and pinene, among others.
Safety Data: Oral toxin