Cedar: benefits, dosage, contraindications

Mis à jour le 8 November 2025

The cedar is a majestic conifer belonging to the Pinaceae family. There are several species of cedar, the best known being the Cedar of Lebanon (Cedrus libani) and the Atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica). These impressive trees, symbols of longevity and strength, are native to Lebanon and the Atlas Mountains in North Africa, respectively. In gemmotherapy, the buds of Cedar of Lebanon are used for their regenerating properties on 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, the oil of Atlas cedar is prized for its benefits on the skin. It helps reduce cellulite, improves lymphatic circulation, and promotes the health of the scalp and hair. Often added to shampoos, it offers a natural solution for skin and hair care.

Scientific name(s)

Cedrus libani, Cedrus atlantica

Family or group:

Plants

Active ingredients:

Sesquiterpenes

Sesquiterpene ketones

Indications

Scoring methodology

EFSA approval.

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

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

One or more randomized studies, or several cohorts or epidemiological studies, with positive conclusions for the indication.

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

No clinical studies to date that can demonstrate the indication.

Hair loss
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The essential oil of Atlas cedar is being studied for its potential to prevent hair loss. Some evidence indicates that the 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

Oral use: bark

essential oil

Synergies

Lavender, Rosemary, Thyme

Randomized trial of aromatherapy. Successful treatment for alopecia areata

Psoriasis, Eczema
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An investigation into the phyto-embryonic extracts of Cedar of Lebanon demonstrated their effectiveness in treating various skin disorders, notably atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Five patients, including three children and two adults, received specific doses of the extract. The results showed a marked improvement in symptoms such as itching, dryness, and redness, with no relapse after 12 months of follow-up.nnIn gemmotherapy, the buds of the Cedar of Lebanon are considered skin drainers and are indicated to maintain the suppleness and elasticity of the skin.nn

Posologie

Oral: 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

Atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica) essential oil is recognized for its dermatoprotective properties thanks to its bioactive compounds such as β-himachalene (28.99%), α-himachalene (14.43%), and longifolene (12.2%). This oil has strong anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the enzyme lipoxygenase (5-LOX), which reduces the production of inflammatory mediators and soothes skin inflammation. In addition, the oil inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase, which is responsible for melanin production, thus helping to prevent pigmentation disorders such as hyperpigmentation. Its antioxidant action neutralizes free radicals, reducing oxidative damage and slowing skin aging.

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 shown that Atlas cedar essential oil is effective against various bacterial strains, notably Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus. The oil's efficacy is attributed to the presence of monoterpenes, primarily alpha-pinene, which makes up 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 known 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 ward off moths and mosquitoes, as well as to protect clothing and furniture from insect infestations. Using this oil in atmospheric diffusion or applying it to textile surfaces is an effective and natural method for controlling insects.

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

Safe dosage

Adult: 15 drops (gemmotherapy)

In gemmotherapy, the buds of the Cedar of Lebanon are used as a glycerinated macerate according to the manufacturer's recommendations (15 to 50 drops per day).nn

Adult: 2 drops (essential oil)

Atlas Cedar essential oil should be used with caution. It is generally applied diluted in a vegetable oil to avoid any skin irritation. For hair care, a few drops can be added to a shampoo. When diffused into the air, it helps repel insects. In massage, it is effective for reducing cellulite and improving lymphatic circulation. It is recommended not to use it in pregnant or breastfeeding women and young children without medical advice.nn

Conseil scientifique