Cedar is a coniferous tree indigenous to North Africa, the Middle East, and the Himalayas. Fast forward to today, however, and you can find these 100-foot woody behemoths all over the world. The tree itself has a special place in many cultures, having been used for both spiritual (the Cherokee, for example, believed that cedarwood held human spirits) and utilitarian (Romans used cedar tree trunks in ship construction because they were rot-proof and extremely durable) purposes.
Cedarwood perfume oil is arguably one of the most popular ingredients in modern-day perfumery. Aromatically reminiscent of evergreen woodlands, cedarwood has a soft, dry, woody scent – one that’s, unsurprisingly, heavy on resin and terpenes nuances. It’s primarily used as a base note, although it can also be used to great effect in a perfume’s top and middle notes. As for compatibility, cedarwood lends a warm and inviting presence in both floral and citrus blends, and combines superbly with woody notes such as pine, patchouli, and sandalwood for a delightful woodsy aroma.
In aromatherapy, cedarwood perfume’s woody, balsamic properties provide a grounding and stabilizing effect. Its smell is known for having stress-relieving properties – one that helps to relax and calm the mind while promoting concentration and focus. This makes cedarwood the perfect scent for trying to get some work done, or simply for tuning out of the daily grind of life.