The tree is majestic, in fact it can reach 50 meters in height and from its wood an oil with a sweet, warm and balsamic scent is obtained. This is Atlas cedar and the essential oil obtained from it is commonly known as cedarwood essential oil. This oil was already known at the time of the Egyptians who used it to preserve papyri, in embalming processes but also to treat infections and diseases. Thanks to scientific studies, we now know that cedarwood essential oil is an excellent ally for the health of the scalp and the beauty of the hair. Here's what the research says about it.
Cedarwood oil, properties for hair health
Studies have observed that cedarwood oil, when applied to the skin, is able to stimulate hair growth (Uronnachi et al, Scientific African, 2022). Not only that, cedarwood oil also counteracts hair loss and promotes regrowth in case of alopecia areata, which is a condition that causes sudden patchy hair loss with an autoimmune cause, but also aggravated by stress, infections and an unbalanced diet. In particular, the daily application, for 7 months, of a mixture of jojoba and grape seed oil to which the essential oils of thyme, rosemary, lavender and cedarwood had been added, allowed a significant improvement in nearly half of the volunteers, all with alopecia areata, involved in the study (Hay et al, Arch Dermatol, 1998). Cedarwood essential oil is also useful in treating dandruff, helps rebalance sebaceous production, is anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial and helps to soothe itching and irritation of the skin (Orchard et al, Evid Based Complement Alternat Med, 2017).
Healthier hair with a strengthening and regenerating massage
To benefit from the stimulating, regenerating, soothing and rebalancing properties of cedarwood oil, you can make at home this treatment dedicated to the scalp. In a small bowl, mix two tablespoons of jojoba oil, which strengthens and repairs the skin barrier, is antioxidant and anti-inflammatory (Lin et al, Int J Mol Sci, 2018), and 2-3 drops of cedarwood essential oil. Apply to damp scalp, massaging slowly with your fingertips. Leave on for ten minutes and then rinse with your shampoo. Alternatively, you can add two drops of cedarwood essential oil to your shampoo as well.
