Cedar: benefits, dosage, contraindications

Updated on 19 March 2025

Cedar is a majestic conifer belonging to the Pinaceae family. Several species of cedar exist, the most well-known being the Cedar of Lebanon (Cedrus libani) and the Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica). These imposing trees, symbols of longevity and strength, originate from Lebanon and the Atlas Mountains in North Africa respectively. In gemmotherapy, the buds of Cedar of Lebanon are used for their regenerative properties for the skin and to treat various skin conditions. They are particularly effective against eczema. In aromatherapy, the essential oil of Atlas Cedar, extracted from its wood and rich in alpha-pinene (81.49%), is effective against bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus. It also has insecticidal properties, making it useful for repelling and eliminating insects like moths and mosquitoes. Compounds such as beta-himachalene and alpha-himachalene play a key role in this repellent activity. In cosmetics, Atlas Cedar oil is prized for its skin benefits. It helps reduce cellulite, improves lymphatic circulation, and promotes scalp and hair health. Often added to shampoos, it offers a natural solution for skin and hair care.

Other name(s)

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Scientific name(s)

Cedrus libani, Cedrus atlantica

Family or group:

Plants

Active ingredients:

Sesquiterpenes

Sesquiterpenic ketones

Indications

Rating methodology

EFSA approval.

Several clinical trials (> 2) randomized controlled with double blind, including a significant number of patients (>100) with consistently positive outcomes for the indication.

Several clinical trials (> 2) randomized controlled with double blind, and including a significant number of patients (>100) with positive outcomes for the indication.

One or more randomized studies or multiple cohorts or epidemiological studies with positive outcomes for the indication.

Clinical studies exist but are uncontrolled, with conclusions that may be positive or contradictory.

Lack of clinical studies to date that can demonstrate the indication.

Hair loss
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The essential oil of Atlas Cedar is studied for its potential to prevent hair loss. Some evidence suggests that topical application of a combined oil, containing lavender, thyme, rosemary, and Atlas Cedar essential oil, improves hair growth in up to 44% of patients after 7 months of treatment.

Posologie

Orally: bark

essential oil

Synergies

Lavender, Rosemary, Thyme

Randomized trial of aromatherapy. Successful treatment for alopecia areata

Psoriasis, Eczema
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A study on the phyto-embryonic extracts of Cedar of Lebanon has shown their effectiveness in treating various skin disorders, including atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Five patients, including three children and two adults, received specific doses of the extract. Results revealed a notable improvement in symptoms such as itching, dryness, and redness, without relapse after 12 months of follow-up. In gemmotherapy, the buds of Cedar of Lebanon are considered skin drainage agents and are indicated to maintain skin suppleness and elasticity.

Posologie

Orally: buds

gemmotherapy

Dermatitis Skin Disorders Treated with Phyto Embryo Extracts of Cedrus Libani A. Rich: Clinical Analysis of 5 Case Reports
Practical guide to family gemmotherapy - Dr MAX TETAU

Properties

Dermatological effect

The essential oil of Atlas Cedar is recognized for its dermatoprotective properties thanks to its bioactive compounds like b2-himachalene (28.99%), b1-himachalene (14.43%), and longifolene (12.2%). This oil possesses strong anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the enzyme lipoxygenase (5-LOX), reducing the production of inflammatory mediators and soothing skin inflammations.a Furthermore, the oil inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase, responsible for melanin production, thus helping prevent pigmentation disorders like hyperpigmentation. Its antioxidant action neutralizes free radicals, reducing oxidative damage and slowing down skin aging.a

Antioxidant, Volatile Compounds; Antimicrobial, Anti-Inflammatory, and Dermatoprotective Properties of Cedrus atlantica (Endl.) Manetti Ex Carriere Essential Oil: In Vitro and In Silico Investigations

Antimicrobial

Studies have demonstrated that the essential oil of Atlas Cedar is effective against various bacterial strains, including Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus. The oil's effectiveness is attributed to the presence of monoterpenes, primarily alpha-pinene, which constitutes about 81.49% of the essential oil. These compounds act by disrupting bacterial cell membranes, leading to their destruction.

Chemical Composition, Antioxidant, In Vitro and In Situ Antimicrobial, Antibiofilm, and Anti-Insect Activity of Cedar atlantica Essential Oil

Insecticide

The essential oil of Atlas Cedar is recognized for its insecticidal properties. It is used to repel and eliminate various harmful insects. Compounds such as beta-himachalene and alpha-himachalene present in the oil play a crucial role in this activity. Due to its repellent properties, cedar oil is often used in natural formulations to keep moths and mosquitoes away, as well as to protect clothing and furniture from insect infestations. Using this oil in atmospheric diffusion or application on textile supports is an effective and natural method for combating insects.

Chemical Composition, Antioxidant, In Vitro and In Situ Antimicrobial, Antibiofilm, and Anti-Insect Activity of Cedar atlantica Essential Oil

Safety dosage

Adult: 15 drops (gemmotherapy)

In gemmotherapy, the buds of Cedar of Lebanon are used in glyceryl macerate form according to the manufacturer's recommendations (15 to 50 drops per day).

Adult: 2 drops (essential oil)

The essential oil of Atlas Cedar should be used with caution. It is typically applied diluted in a vegetable oil to avoid skin irritation. For hair care, a few drops can be added to shampoo. In atmospheric diffusion, it helps repel insects. In massage, it is effective in reducing cellulite and improving lymphatic circulation. It is recommended not to use it on pregnant or breastfeeding women and young children without medical advice.

Conseil scientifique