"Japanese researchers have studied 'forest bathing' — a poetic name for walking in the woods. They suspect aerosols from the forests, inhaled during a walk, are behind elevated levels of Natural Killer or NK cells in the immune system, which fight tumors and infections. A subsequent study, in which essential oils from cedars were emitted in a hotel room where people slept, also caused a significant spike in NK cells." [From an article published at the Yale School of the Environment January 9, 2020]
I have used cedarwood essential oil at Crow Wing Crest Lodge for years. I am no longer in charge of coordinating the bedding on our 83 beds (Emily is!) but in the fall when storing linens for winter, I used to add a few drops of cedarwood on an unscented dryer sheet and place within the plastic bag of each bed's linens. (Although we've always used non-toxic detergents, we now use totally unscented laundry solutions: typically Ecos, Ecover, or 7th Generation laundry soaps.)
Cedarwood is often included in Aromatherapy 101 classes at CWC. Much research suggests it is helpful for insect control (Did your grandmother have a cedar chest to keep her quilts moth-free? Mine did. And my father had rounded oblong cedar blocks inserted into his spiffy shoes, in order to keep their shape while in storage in the back of his closet. The blocks were a natural deodorizer, and also kept pests from nesting inside.)
Once you start researching this simple oil, you'll find many wonderful everyday uses! Perhaps start with this article from Heathline.com correlating studies of cedarwood to help hair loss, acne, arthritis, and insomnia.
I will often share in class the knowledge that there is data showing cedarwood to be helpful for treating Urinary Tract Infections. Read more here on some common sense avenues to apply (basically mixing 10 drops per tablespoon of carrier oil {e.g. olive oil} and massaging onto lower abdomen.)
Whether diffusing cedarwood into the air of your office or bedroom, or applying to your skin via a self-made massage oil, cedarwood is a great beginner essential oil. It's inexpensive and easy to obtain. I will typically always have 1/2 ounce bottles for sale in the lodge at Crow Wing Crest ($9.99.) If you don't come across it in your normal course of events, make a mental note to pick some up next time you visit the resort. Happy healing!
- Kim, Owner - Crow Wing Crest Lodge
