The Respected & Revered Cedarwood

Cedar trees have played a central role in aromatics from ancient times to the present. From ancient Egypt, to India, Tibet, the Mediterranean, and North America, the cedar tree has been respected and revered.

The tree is native to North America and grows up to 30 meters (100 feet) and ages up to 1,000 years. This is the tree Solomon used to build the Temple in Jerusalem. Cedrus libani or Lebanon cedar, from which the first essential oil was extracted, is very scarce due to over use.

The Egyptians used the oil in the mummification process, in cosmetics and as an insect repellent, while native Americans used Cedar oil in medicine and burnt it for purification. These days the wood is often used in the making of pencils and boxes.

Cedarwood oil benefits the skin by its sedating ability which relieves itching. Its astringent action is great for acne, oily skin, as well as for hair and dandruff. It helps with chest and urinary infections, acts as a general tonic and has a pronounced effect on mucus membranes.

It has a calming and soothing effect on the mind and is of great help in conditions associated with anxiety and nervous tension. It is also of value in cases of arthritis and rheumatism.
There are several types of Cedarwoods:

Atlas Cedarwood origin is Morocco and has a more woody fragrance that appeals to many men. Whereas the Himalayan Cedarwood is a softer, more subdued fragrance.

Virginia Cedarwood essential oil is actually from a Juniper tree, however the aroma is that of Cedar - woody and smooth, and reminiscent of an old cedarwood chest. Virginia Cedarwood oil is a beautiful dark reddish color.

Texas Cedarwood and Virginia cedarwood are from junipers and are quite different in aroma and therapeutic value. Also, Cedar Leaf oil is from a type of cypress and best to use very carefully or not at all due to its toxicity.

Or my personal favorite Himalayan Cedarwood- Sanskrit, Hindi: देवदार devadāru, which means "wood of the gods." The inner wood is aromatic and used to make incense. Inner wood is distilled into essential oil. As insects avoid this tree, the essential oil is used as insect repellent on the feet of horses, cattle and camels. It also has antifungal properties and has some potential for control of fungal deterioration of spices during storage. The outer bark and stem are astringent. Its biomedical actions are reported to be criminative, antispasmodic, creates sweating, urination and is aromatic. Deodar’s Ayurvedic actions are reported to increase digestive function, remove toxins from the bowel, alleviate coughing, and cure skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis. Cedar oil is often used for its aromatic properties, especially in aromatherapy. This cedar has more of an eastern spice tone than North American cedars. Like Virginian Cedar it adds a woody middle note.

*Please avoid the use of any cedarwood oil during pregnancy.*

**Please be cautious when purchasing cedar essential oil! It is recommended only Atlas Cedar and Himalayan Cedar, as they are the safest to use, have the nicest aroma, and are the only true cedars typically available.

Thyme oil can inhibit COX2 and suppress inflammation

ScienceDaily (Jan. 14, 2010) — For those who do not drink, researchers have found that six essential oils -from thyme, clove, rose, eucalyptus, fennel and bergamot -- can suppress the inflammatory COX-2 enzyme, in a manner similar to resveratrol, the chemical linked with the health benefits of red wine. They also identified that the chemical carvacrol was primarily responsible for this suppressive activity.

These findings, appearing in the January issue of Journal of Lipid Research, provide more understanding of the health benefits of many botanical oils and provide a new avenue for anti-inflammatory drugs.

Essential oils from plants have long been a component of home remedies, and even today are used for their aromatherapy, analgesic (e.g. cough drops), or antibacterial properties. Of course, the exact way they work is not completely understood. However, Hiroyasu Inoue and colleagues in Japan believed that many essential oils might target COX-2 much like compounds in wine and tea.

So, they screened a wide range of commercially available oils and identified six (thyme, clove, rose, eucalyptus, fennel and bergamot) that reduced COX-2 expression in cells by at least 25%. Of these, thyme oil proved the most active, reducing COX-2 levels by almost 75%.

When Inoue and colleagues analyzed thyme oil, they found that the major component -carvacrol- was the primary active agent; in fact when they use pure carvacrol extracts in their tests COX-2 levels decreased by over 80%.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/01/100113122306.htm

Essential oils capable of killing superbugs, research finds

MARESE McDONAGH
The Irish Times - Tuesday, December 15, 2009

FOR MANY PEOPLE essential oils are associated with sweet-smelling rooms or a relaxing bath, but their antibacterial components make them “highly efficient” in the treatment of so-called hospital “superbugs”, according to new research.

Scientists based at Sligo Institute of Technology have discovered that some essential oils are capable of killing the most resistant bacteria including MRSA as well as Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) and Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamase (ESBL).

Superbugs, which have been attributed to overcrowding and poor hygiene in hospitals, are potentially life threatening, especially for people already frail due to illness.

Describing the findings as “very promising”, the research team, which includes staff from the Department of Microbiology at Sligo General Hospital, said the oils were effective against bacteria which were resistant to conventional antibiotics.

PhD student Julien Thibault said most antibiotics were “useless” in the fight against superbugs because of their enzyme content. Those antibiotics which do have an effect are so toxic that they are administered as a last resort because of risks to, for example, liver and kidney, he explained.

While essential oils are widely available in a range of outlets including pharmacies, health stores and supermarkets and are popular for use as antiseptic treatments and in aromatic oil burners, there has been little focus until now on their impact on resistant bacteria.

Essential oils are composed of plant extracts which generally contain a large number of chemicals, some of which have antibacterial properties.

The researchers tested a large range of oils and their components, and found that among the most effective at killing the MRSA, VRE and ESBL strains were clove, lemongrass, citronella, thyme, oregano, cinnamon while the popular tea tree oil was also found the be “quite effective”.

“The list is not exhaustive – a large majority of the oils tested showed activity at relatively low concentrations,” said Mr Thibault.

He said that while the results were promising, further work was needed to provide viable alternatives to patients. “This is a starting point,” he said, adding that caution was always needed when using essential oils.

Dr Fiona McArdle from Sligo IT, the supervisor on the project, said they were hoping to do further research so that the “huge potential” in the use of natural products in the treatment and eradication of superbugs could be exploited.

Mr Thibault said it had already been established that essential oils as vapour did have some antibacterial properties.
http://itsligo.ie/research-innovation/research/research-projects/
http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/health/2009/1215/1224260710594.html

Protection against the Flu and Essential Oils

As the bubonic plague ravaged Europe in the year 1413, the story of the four thieves arrived on the scene and the story has changed history. They were captured and charged with robbing the dead and dying victims but it was noticed that they remained free of the plague. When the thieves were tried, the magistrate offered leniency if they would reveal how they resisted contracting the infection as they performed their gruesome acts. The four thieves explained that they were perfumers and spice traders and finally exposed their special concoction of aromatic herbs, including cloves and rosemary, that they rubbed on their hands, ears, and temples. This prevented them from contracting the disease! And as a result the “bird-masks” were invented to be worn by doctors as protection against airborne bacteria. In the beak was placed a material infused in a blend of essential oils that would filter, and kill, bacteria. These masks later became the “prototype” for the well-known Venetian carnival-mask.

The essential oil blend of the Four Thieves was tested at Weber State University for its potent antimicrobial properties. Thieves oil was found to have a 99.96% percent kill rate against airborne bacteria. The oils are highly antiviral, antiseptic, anti-catarrhyal, antibacterial, anti-infectious and also help to stimulate the immune system circulatory and respiratory systems and help protect the body against such illnesses as flu, colds, sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, sore throats, cuts etc.

A study by researchers in France in 2008 tested bactericidal activity of 13 different essential oils and had similar results, with cinnamon being the most effective. At concentrations as low as 10 percent or less, cinnamon oil was also effective against several antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria, such as Staphylococcus and E. coli. During this study, after only 10 minutes there was a reduction of 82% in Micrococcus luteus, 96% in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and 44% in Staphylococcus aurous.

There are a few recipes floating about for the Four Thieves:

Clove oil (Syzgium aromaticum) 200 drops or 1/2 ounce
Lemon oil (Citrus limon) 175 drops
Cinnamon Bark oil (Cinnamoomum verum) 100 drops
Eucalyptus oil ( Eucalyptus radiata) 75 drops
Rosemary oil (Rosimarinus officinalis) 50 drops

And, here are two recipes for Thieves Oil. One from Karen another from Debbie.

Thieves Oil recipes:

Equal amounts of eucalyptus, rosemary, cinnamon, clove and lemon. Mix with base of olive oil. I usually put a tablespoon of each in a 2 oz. bottle and then fill the rest with olive oil. you can make a larger batch in a quart jar following the same proportion method.
Same ingredients, but measured out in different strength's. Clove Bud Oil 200 drops, Lemon Oil 175 drops, Cinnamon Oil 100 drops, Eucalyptus Oil 75 drops, Rosemary 50 drops.

Then there is also the essential oils being touted as combating the H1N1 Swine Flu of 2009: Oregano, Lemon, Cinnamon, Clove, Eucalyptus, and Tea Tree. Not so much different from the Four Thieves. I would say whatever you have on hand from any of these list would absolutely be beneficial to your immune system and to help fight off any form a cold or flu.

How to use the essential oils:
*Place in a diffuser for 10-15 minutes every hour up to 4 hours to kill airborne germs.
*Dilute 2 drops of the blend in a carrier oil and apply to chest to relieve cough, bronchitis, pneumonia, clear phlegm and to heat up the body if chilled.
*Place 2 drops of diluted blend on to the lymph nodes to attack the virus and massage gently.
* Place 1 drop on the bottom of each foot for an overall kick start to your immune system. This also allows your body to start the detox process to rid the germs and virus. This is one of the most important things you can do for yourself.

My research includes but not limited to: Scent, Annick LeGuerer; The Foul & Fragrant, Alain Corbin; Aroma, The Cultural History of Smell, Classen/Howes/Synnott
http://politicolnews.com/protection-against-swine-flu/#comments http://stanford.wellsphere.com/general-medicine-article/four-thieves-vinegar-oil/801645

Natural Hand Sanitizers- Getting ready for the Flu Season

Nothing beats old-fashion soap & water, but when your out and about and that's not available, having a natural sanitizer will keep you of harms way and germ free. Here's a couple of recipes.

Start with a liquid container-fill it 2/3 of the way with water-add a tablespoon or 2of Aloe Vera Gel-you can choose between 3 & 5 of the listed essential oils and then add 5 drops each of lemon, cinnamon, eucalyptus, clove bud, lavender, tea tree. Add a splash of either rubbing alcohol or vodka and top off with water, shake it and gently apply to hands.

Or

10% Ravensara in Aloe Vera gel = Natural Hand Sanitizer

A Swish with Myrrh

The name Myrrh actually means “bitter” in the Arabic language. Myrrh is well known throughout history to many cultures especially traditional Arabian healers, and up to the present day is one of the most recommended medicinal herbs in Arabia.

Myrrh is known to make a difference in the health of maintaining and combating gum disease and for healing mucous membranes, including in the throat, mouth, stomach, sinuses, esophagus, colon, and more, while at the same time being good for helping to rid the body of nasty lung ailments too, including the likes of pneumonia, bronchitis, allergy (including asthma and similar problems), and almost any other type of inflammatory disease. Myrrh helps to get the phlegm out of the lungs and sinuses too.

If you are currently having issues with gum infections, bleeding gums, sore throat or gingivitis this rinse is what you are looking for, you will need:

5 oz bottle with dropper
Fill with Vodka
Add 2 drops Myrrh Essential Oil
Mix and add 1-2 drops per oz of water gargle and rinse

Direct application of Myrrh oil-use a clean cotton Q-tip apply 1 drop and apply to area of gum or tooth, it may sting a bit for a few moments, but is an excellent way to heal the affected area.

Myrrh can even be used in your neti pot as a sinus wash.

Tom's of Maine also has a Myrrh Toothpaste

Why Tea Tree Oil is a great Summer Oil

Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) is the most researched of all the essential oils.


In Chinese medicine, this is a cooling, slightly yin oil. It aids the circulation of Qi and blood, clears toxins, and reduces inflammation.

It is being used as a very effective first aid remedy and against countless skin aliments, infections, cuts, scrapes, burns, insect bites and skin spots, etc… just to name a few uses.

Trying to control the causes of acne, it is very important to keep the surfaces affected by acne as clean as possible. Infection of the skin only worsens the condition so including tea tree as a part of your skin care regime, results will follow.

Tea tree being antiseptic oil it prevents any possible infections that could arise, and almost immediately soothes the skin, clearing out any ongoing infection. It has the ability to open clogged pores so that acne can heal faster. Any acne scarring is reduced because the tea tree is effective on infection and very gentle on the skin.

Sunburns are not only aesthetically unappealing, it is painful. The complications can include sunburn swelling, peeling, nausea and fever. Appling tea tree oil prevents the skin peeling and soothes the pain of the burn, and leads to faster healing.

Other conditions and uses for tea tree essential oil include nail fungus, ringworm, athlete’s foot, dandruff, blackheads, and many types of infestations including lice, mites, scabies, and mosquitoes, etc. Tea tree oil is not just soothing and disinfecting, it is capable of penetrating into the lower skin layers with its anti-inflammatory, disinfectant, analgesic (pain-killing) and cicatrizant (wound- healing) qualities.


Tea tree oil use is so versatile, that it is a good idea to keep a bottle of tea tree oil handy at all times. While tea tree is non-toxic and non-irritant, always carry out a patch test first to check for sensitivity as it can irritate some skins.

Tea Tree oil and aromatherapy books available at www.CrimsonMoon.com

Oregano Stops Inflammation of Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis

Over the last couple of years turmeric has become a darling of nutrition researchers. One particularly important study showed the spice reduces inflammation in mice. Curry all around was the conclusion, since there is no toxic dose associated with turmeric. Asian cuisine basked in the healthy glow of the research.

Not to be outdone, the herb oregano is giving a similar boost to Italian foods and pizza sauce. A 2008 study completed by Swiss researchers (?!) shows that oregano is an ultimate inflammation fighter. The active ingredient, betacaryophyllin, helped seven out of every 10 mice to recover from inflamed paws.

The study was published here in the U.S. in Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences, marking a significant mainstream mile for the herb—and for betacaryophyllin, abbreviated as E-BCP, which is also plentiful in black pepper (“yes, I would like fresh-ground pepper on my salad”), rosemary and cinnamon (also found in research literature to be a regulator of bad cholesterol). Plus, basil, so those Italians clearly know how to stem inflammation too.

Reducing chronic inflammation is no small thing, as it is increasingly associated with leading to heart attacks and sits at the root of autoimmune disorders including diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis among others. One promising discovery is oregano and E-BCP could well work to prevent the immune system for overacting and attacking itself, which is at the core of autoimmune disorders.

And there’s more. The Swiss scientists reported that lab findings suggest that oregano could well hold off the bone degeneration associated with osteoporosis. While not part of this study, the researchers speculated that E-BCP could address inflammation of the bowel associated with Crohn’s disease.

The new research doesn’t surprise those of us who have discovered oil of oregano, especially as a cold and flu remedy. Natural-health conscious parents say five drops in a bit of water, then gargle with it, stops a sore throat in its tracks. The oil has a strong, bitter taste, so you might want to mask it for kids.

Health practitioners who work with essential oils will point to the triple-threat potency of oil of oregano, identifying it as antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal. European herbal research consistently shows oregano as one of the most potent for immune-boosting properties.

The oil of oregano products are important to keep in mind because what might be labeled “oregano” in a dried herb products can actually be Spanish marjoram, which is clearly not oregano. You want to look for sourcing information to identify the herb as wild oregano, which is typically grown in the Mediterranean region. Essential oil, of course, distilled the plant down to a concentrated and therapeutic form. Be savvy about where and how you get your oregano and health rewards await.

And probably even better tasting pizza sauce.

By Bob Condor, AHJ Editor -- Published: May 21, 2009
Bob Condor blogs for Alternative Health Journal every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
http://www.alternativehealthjournal.com/blog/1/oregano_stops_inflammation_of_lupus__rheumatoid_arthritis/226