Botanical Spotlight: Cedarwood

As olfactory experts and fragrance connoisseurs, we are passionate about the beauty and power of the natural world. Our fragrance collections are inspired by the sights and experiences we have had on our travels, and the rich diversity of fragrances we have encountered around the globe.

In our Botanical Spotlight series, we will delve into the scientific, cultural and olfactory roots of the key botanicals from our fragrance collections.

Cedar trees are large evergreen conifers, including the Atlas Cedar, Himalayan Cedar, Virginian cedar, Mountain Cedar, African Pencil Cedar and Chinese Weeping Cyprus. The powerful trees are grown for their timber and oils.

The wood of the gods

Cedar falls in the family Pinaceae and Cupressaceae, genus Cedrus and Juniperus Cupressus, and the species: C. atlantica, C.deodara, J. virginiana, J ashei, J. procera, and C.funebris. 

The botanical name derives from the Sanskrit word devadāru, meaning ‘wood of the gods’, underpinning how powerful this majestic tree is.

In the Bible, cedars are referred to as strong, graceful, beautiful and fragrant, and cedarwood oil is used for cleansing and protection. Cedarwood oil was also used in Ancient Egyptian rituals like the mummification process, and in Native American culture for spiritual purposes.

An oil with abundant properties

Cedarwood oil is primarily extracted by steam distillation for use in fragrance, medicine and aromatherapy.

It is packed full of antioxidants, and it is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The oil has been used as a natural pain relief, a stress reducer, a natural sedative, a hair growth aid and a pest repellent. In short, it has a myriad of uses.

In an olfactory sense, cedarwood has a smoky woody scent– but it also has slight aromatic citrus hints which add an element of intrigue. Cedarwood plays an important part in our Sunset in Ibiza™ fragrance, creating a rich, grounding foundation as an earthy base note.

To delve deeper into the history, biology and uses of the diverse botanicals in CRANBOURN^® fragrances, explore our extensive botanicals directory.