What is Cedarwood oil?
Cedarwood (Juniperus virginiana) essential oil is known for its woody scent and provides tremendous benefits. Also known as the Red Cedar, it is native to cold climates, this evergreen tree grows in high altitudes and can get up to 30-80 feet tall. This oil is safe to use with all species diffused or topically, but caution should be used around birds.
Benefits of Cedarwood oil:
Cedarwood essential oil can be used to support the respiratory system, encourages proper lymphatic flow, and promotes a healthy urinary tract. With animals, it is helpful with calming and helpful when warding off and repelling insects and pests. This oil also promotes healthy hair growth, particularly when combined with Rosemary.
As with many tree oils, this oils is very grounding and promotes a sense of wellness and vitality. Cedarwood essential oil has the ability to calm strong emotions and eases stress and anxious thoughts. This is a helpful oil when encouraging rest at night as well.
From an emotional standpoint, Cedarwood helps give courage and strength, and helps with forming social bonds. For animals, you would see a need for this oil in animals that are fearful, timid, or unsettled in their surroundings – such as if they have moved to a new home.
How to use Cedarwood oil with animals:
Cedarwood oil can be diffused, or applied topically – Not for internal use.
For horses, goats and cattle, apply topically directly to the area of interest. Dilute if sensitive. You can also apply along the spine (2-6 drops) or on the skin above the hooves. It can be used in a hoof oil or body spray as well. As an insect repellent, mix 20-40 drops of Cedarwood oil with 16 oz. of distilled water (add a drop or two of soap to disperse or be sure to shake well before each use) and spray animal, being careful to avoid the eye area.
For dogs, diffuse Cedarwood for aromatic use and respiratory support. Apply topically at a dilution rate of 1 drop Cedarwood to 30 drops of carrier oil, then apply 1 drop of the this diluted mixture to the area of interest or by petting along the spine. You can also make an insect repellent spray by mixing 20 drops of Cedarwood oil with 16 oz. distilled water (add a dispersant if desired), shake before use, and spray animal, being careful to avoid eyes and nose.
For cats, diffusion is preferred. Apply topically at a dilution rate of 1 drop Cedarwood per 80-100 drops of carrier oil, then apply 1 drop of this diluted mixture to the area of interest or pet along spine. Another topical or aromatic option is to mix 3-4 drops in 1 cup of baking soda (mix well, let sit overnight) and sprinkle on your kitty litter.
For reptiles, chickens and small mammals, diffusion is preferred. Topically, use 1 drop Cedarwood,1 tsp carrier oil, and 4 oz water to make a misting spray. Shake well before each use.
Blends well with Marjoram, Bergamot, Clary Sage, Cypress, Frankincense, Juniper Berry, Lavender, Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang, Rosemary, and Petitgrain, and others.
