NOW Foods Cedarwood Oil – 100% Pure Virginian Cedarwood (1 fl. oz. / 30 mL)

Product Listing: CEDARWOOD OIL - 1 OZ | Item SKU: N7525 | Brand: NOW Foods

NOW® Cedarwood Essential Oil is a 100% pure, steam-distilled botanical oil extracted directly from the rich heartwood of Virginian redcedar (Juniperus virginiana). Renowned for its warm, balsamic, and grounding woody aroma, pure cedarwood oil has served for generations as a foundational botanical in natural wellness. Whether you are looking to create a tranquil bedtime environment in your home diffuser, nurture your scalp and hair follicles, or keep your closets naturally fresh, this single-species oil delivers authentic, uncompromised botanical potency.

Unlike synthetic room fragrances or mass-market fragrance blends cut with chemical solvents, every drop of NOW® Cedarwood Oil contains solely pure plant essence. Its complex chemical profile is naturally concentrated in beneficial sesquiterpenes, including cedrol and cedrene, providing genuine aromatherapeutic benefits for mental grounding, stress relief, and evening relaxation.

• ✓ 100% Pure & Single-Species: Steam-distilled solely from true Virginian cedarwood (Juniperus virginiana) with zero synthetic additives, fillers, or carrier diluents.
• ✓ Natural Sleep & Relaxation Support: Naturally high cedrol content helps calm autonomic nervous arousal, quiet racing thoughts, and support deeper nighttime rest.
• ✓ Follicle & Scalp Nourishment: Clarifies excess sebum, invigorates cutaneous microcirculation, and helps maintain balanced, flakes-free hair roots when diluted in a carrier oil.
• ✓ Purity Tested & Quality Assured: Every production batch undergoes comprehensive gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) verification to ensure chemical authenticity and the total absence of adulterants.
• ✓ Clean & Responsible: Non-GMO Project Verified, vegan, cruelty-free, and packaged in protective amber glass to shield delicate aromatic terpenes from photo-oxidation.

How Cedarwood Oil Works: The Science of Aromatherapy & Topical Wellness

Aromatherapy is often misunderstood as simply enjoying a pleasant scent. In reality, inhaling pure essential oils triggers direct, measurable physiological changes across the human nervous and vascular systems. When you diffuse NOW® Cedarwood Oil, volatile organic compounds evaporate into the air and bind to olfactory receptors in your nasal cavity. These receptors send instantaneous electrical impulses directly to the brain’s limbic system—the evolutionary command center that regulates emotional responses, heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, and hormone secretion.

1. Cedrol and Autonomic Nervous System Calming

The primary active compound responsible for cedarwood’s calming nature is cedrol, a naturally occurring sesquiterpene alcohol comprising up to 20% to 25% of pure Virginian cedarwood oil. Landmark physiological research has shown that inhaling cedrol actively modulates the autonomic nervous system by downregulating sympathetic (“fight-or-flight”) tone and significantly enhancing parasympathetic (“rest-and-digest”) activity.

In controlled clinical human trials published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology and Applied Human Science (Dayawansa et al., 2003) and the Flavour and Fragrance Journal (Kagawa et al., 2003), researchers tracked autonomic parameters during the inhalation of natural cedrol. The findings confirmed that cedrol inhalation produced significant decreases in heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and motor restlessness. Preclinical neuropharmacology studies further indicate that cedrol exerts gentle sedative and anxiolytic properties by modulating central gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) pathways, helping the brain quiet sensory hyperactivity before sleep.

2. Sesquiterpenes: Alpha-Cedrene, Beta-Cedrene, and Thujopsene

Beyond cedrol, Virginian cedarwood is rich in heavy, lipophilic sesquiterpene hydrocarbons including alpha-cedrene, beta-cedrene, and thujopsene. These molecules act as natural plant defense agents. When vaporized, they demonstrate documented broad-spectrum antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties. Thujopsene in particular has been studied for its ability to neutralize environmental airborne microbes and deter household insects naturally without synthetic neurotoxins like DEET.

3. Scalp Microcirculation & Sebum Regulation

When applied topically in a carrier oil, cedarwood essential oil functions as a natural cutaneous astringent and local circulatory stimulant. Massaging diluted cedarwood into the scalp promotes microvascular blood flow to the dermal papilla at the base of hair follicles, delivering vital oxygen and nutrients necessary for sustained cellular growth.

Additionally, its natural antifungal qualities help control opportunistic scalp flora such as Malassezia yeasts, which frequently drive dandruff, itchiness, and inflammatory follicular clogging. A landmark randomized, double-blind controlled clinical trial published in the Archives of Dermatology (Hay et al., 1998) evaluated an essential oil formulation containing cedarwood, thyme, lavender, and rosemary in a jojoba and grapeseed carrier base. The study found that 44% of patients using the essential oil blend achieved significant, objective hair regrowth compared to only 15% in the carrier-only control group, confirming cedarwood’s therapeutic value in natural scalp care.

Product Specifications & Complete Ingredients

We believe in complete transparency. What is stated on the label is exactly what is inside the bottle. Below are the verified manufacturer specifications and physical constants for NOW® Cedarwood Oil (Item code: 7525 / N7525):

Complete Ingredient Statement

Ingredients: 100% Pure Cedarwood Oil (Juniperus virginiana).

Formulation Purity: Contains zero synthetic fragrances, zero artificial preservatives, zero petroleum solvents, and zero added carrier oils. Hexane-free, non-GMO, vegan, vegetarian, and never tested on animals.

NOW Foods Quality Assurance: World-Class Lab Testing & Strict Contaminant Constraints

The essential oil marketplace is rife with adulteration. Independent industry investigations frequently reveal that commercial oils sold on unverified online marketplaces are diluted with mineral oil, spiked with synthetic fragrance isolates, or substituted with cheap pine and cypress byproducts. NOW® takes an uncompromising, pharmaceutical-grade analytical approach to guarantee that every bottle of cedarwood oil is genuine, unadulterated, and free from dangerous contaminants.

NOW operates one of the most sophisticated private testing facilities in the nutritional industry, featuring ISO/IEC 17025 accredited analytical laboratories staffed by over 150 full-time chemists, toxicologists, and microbiologists. Every incoming lot of cedarwood oil is subjected to rigorous multi-tiered verification:

• 1. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS): GC-MS is the gold standard of essential oil verification. Gas chromatography physically separates every volatile molecule in the oil, while mass spectrometry fragments each compound to produce a unique molecular fingerprint. This verifies authentic Juniperus virginiana sesquiterpene peaks (cedrol, cedrene, thujopsene) while confirming the complete absence of synthetic additives, solvent extenders, or foreign plant adulteration.
• 2. Physical & Chiral Testing (Refractometry & Specific Gravity): Automated instrumentation confirms that the oil matches strict physical constants (Refractive Index: 1.500–1.505; Specific Gravity: 0.938–0.964). Optical rotation testing confirms that the chiral stereochemistry reflects natural plant biosynthesis rather than petroleum-derived synthetic chemicals.
• 3. Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) for Heavy Metals: Natural botanicals absorb trace minerals from agricultural soil. NOW utilizes high-temperature argon plasma ICP-MS to screen raw materials down to parts-per-billion (ppb) thresholds, verifying safety against lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury.
• 4. Multi-Residue Pesticide Screening (LC-MS/MS & GC-MS/MS): Dual-platform tandem mass spectrometers screen for hundreds of synthetic agricultural pesticides, fungicides, and herbicides to ensure the oil is completely pure and clean.
• 5. Microbiological & Organoleptic Evaluation: Every batch undergoes full bio-burden testing (yeast, mold, aerobic plate count, and pathogens) alongside olfactory and visual evaluation by certified essential oil chemists to ensure aroma authenticity and freshness.

Lot-Specific Certificate of Analysis (CoA) Lookup

NOW provides complete consumer transparency. You do not have to take purity claims on faith: every bottle features an individual lot number printed directly on the glass. Consumers can visit NOW’s public Certificate of Analysis portal (cofa.nowfoods.com) to view the actual analytical test reports and GC-MS verification for their exact bottle.

Practical Usage, Dilution Guidelines & Important Safety Precautions

Pure botanical essential oils are highly concentrated. A single drop represents pounds of distilled wood. To achieve optimal results while protecting your skin and health, follow these evidence-based application guidelines:

1. Aromatherapy & Diffusion

Add 3 to 5 drops of NOW® Cedarwood Oil to water in any ultrasonic diffuser. Diffuse in your bedroom 30 minutes before sleep, or in your living area during meditation, reading, or quiet relaxation. Popular custom diffuser recipes include:

• ✓ Deep Sleep & Evening Calm Blend: Combine 3 drops Cedarwood Oil, 3 drops French Lavender Oil, and 2 drops Bergamot or Sweet Orange Oil.
• ✓ NOW® Breathe Deep Blend: Add 1 drop Cedarwood Oil, 1 drop Pine Needle Oil, 5 drops Eucalyptus Oil, and 5 drops Hyssop Oil to clear seasonal stuffiness.

2. Topical Application & Scalp Care (Dilution Required)

Never apply pure cedarwood oil undiluted (“neat”) to unbroken skin or the scalp. Always blend it into a pure plant carrier oil such as organic jojoba, argan, rosehip, sweet almond, or fractionated coconut oil:

• ✓ Standard 1% Body Dilution: 5 to 6 drops of cedarwood oil per 1 fluid ounce (30 mL / 2 tablespoons) of carrier oil.
• ✓ Scalp Rejuvenation Blend (2% Dilution): 10 to 12 drops of cedarwood oil (or a combination of 6 drops cedarwood and 6 drops rosemary oil) per 1 fluid ounce of jojoba or argan oil.
• ✓ How to Apply: Part hair into sections, apply 1 to 2 teaspoons of the diluted oil blend directly to the scalp, and massage gently for 3 to 5 minutes. Leave on for 30 minutes, or overnight with a protective hair wrap, then wash out thoroughly with a gentle shampoo.

3. Natural Home & Wardrobe Freshener

To keep closets, cedar chests, and storage bins fresh and naturally moth-resistant, place 3 to 4 drops of cedarwood oil onto unfinished wooden balls, cedar blocks, or clean cotton balls and place them in drawers. Alternatively, combine 10 drops of cedarwood oil, 1 ounce of witch hazel, and 3 ounces of distilled water in a spray bottle; shake well and lightly mist closet interiors and woolens.

Essential Safety Precautions

• • NOT FOR INTERNAL USE: Never swallow, drink, or ingest pure essential oils. Ingesting concentrated botanical terpenes can cause mucosal irritation, gastrointestinal burns, and systemic toxicity.
• • Patch Test Before First Use: Apply 1 drop of properly diluted oil to the inside of your forearm. Wait 24 hours. If redness, itching, or irritation develops, discontinue use immediately.
• • Avoid Sensitive Areas: Keep away from eyes, inner ears, mucous membranes, open cuts, or broken skin. If accidental contact occurs, flush immediately with a plant-based oil (like olive or jojoba), not water, as water will disperse the lipophilic oil across the tissue.
• • Pregnancy & Medical Conditions: If pregnant, nursing, taking prescription medications, or under medical supervision for an underlying health condition, consult your physician before using any essential oil.
• • Pet Safety (Dogs & Cats): Cats and dogs possess highly sensitive olfactory receptors and lack specific liver enzymes (glucuronyl transferase) required to safely metabolize concentrated volatile terpenes. When diffusing, ensure the room is well-ventilated and your pets are free to leave the room. Never apply essential oils directly to your pet’s fur or skin without direct veterinary authorization.

Why Buy NOW Cedarwood Oil From VitaNet?

When you purchase therapeutic botanicals and supplements online, knowing who stands behind the product is just as critical as the ingredients on the label. Mass-market e-commerce marketplaces are flooded with unverified third-party sellers, counterfeit items, and products stored in unconditioned, sweltering warehouses where delicate aromatic oils degrade into oxidized, skin-irritating byproducts.

VitaNet®, LLC offers an entirely different, trusted shopping experience grounded in genuine natural health expertise and independent integrity:

• ✓ Family-Owned Independent Heritage Since 1995: Founded in 1995 and based in Hartville, Ohio, VitaNet brings over 31 years of dedicated hands-on experience in human biochemistry and nutritional wellness[cite: 1].
• ✓ Direct Authorized Sourcing: We source inventory directly from authorized brand distributors, ensuring every bottle of NOW® Cedarwood Oil is factory-fresh, genuine, and stored under strict climate-controlled conditions[cite: 1].
• ✓ Risk-Free 100% Money-Back Guarantee: We stand behind everything we sell. VitaNet offers an unconditional 100% money-back guarantee—we even pay return shipping costs, even on opened items, if you are not fully satisfied[cite: 1].
• ✓ BBB A+ Accredited Business: Our decades of transparent customer service and consumer trust are recognized with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau[cite: 1].
• ✓ Everyday Discount Value: Access over 16,000 name-brand vitamins, natural herbs, and premium essential oils at up to 50% off retail pricing[cite: 1].
• ✓ Real Human Support: No frustrating automated bot loops. You can reach our knowledgeable customer service team by phone or visit our retail store in Hartville, Ohio during regular business hours[cite: 1].

Order your bottle of pure NOW® Cedarwood Oil today from an authentic, family-owned American retailer you can trust.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the difference between Virginian Cedarwood and Atlas Cedarwood?

Virginian Cedarwood (Juniperus virginiana) is native to North America and belongs to the Cypress family (Cupressaceae). It has a warm, dry, pencil-wood timber scent and is naturally high in the calming sesquiterpene cedrol. Atlas Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica) comes from the pine family (Pinaceae) native to Morocco, containing himachalenes with a sweeter, slightly medicinal camphoraceous aroma. Both offer grounding aromatherapeutic benefits, but Virginian cedarwood is preferred for nighttime relaxation, linen freshening, and scalp formulas.