Cedarwood oil and sandalwood oil are very popular essential oils that are famous for their unique scents. Both Cedarwood and sandalwood have been used for centuries for their many beneficial benefits (1). They have been used as a part of traditional medicine for ages.
Both oils are derived from the wood of trees and thus are wood oils. They have a warm and woodsy scent that is grounding and also promotes calmness. Both oils have a smoky, woody scent to them.
Despite these similarities, there are certain differences as well between the two. In this post, the difference between these two oils is discussed in detail.
What Are The Key Differences Between Sandalwood And Cedarwood Oils?
Following are some of the key differences between Sandalwood and Cedarwood based on their properties and characteristics:
Sandalwood |
Cedarwood |
|
Derived from |
Sandalwood trees |
Cedar tree (coniferous tree) |
Benefits |
Treat sunburn, reduces blemishes, fade away scar, remove blackheads and helps in skin tightening |
Heal itchy skin, reduces fine line & wrinkles, reduce acne, improves skin quality |
Varieties |
Australian Sandalwood, East Indian Sandalwood and Hawaiian Sandalwood |
Cedarwood atlas, cedarwood himalayan, cedarwood texas, cedarwood virginia |
Sandalwood Oil
Sandalwood essential oil is derived from sandalwood trees that are more than 80 years old through the steam distillation process (2). In the case of sandalwood, it is stated that the older the tree, the stronger the aroma. Following are some of the benefits of sandalwood oil:
Calming Properties
This is one of the most effective properties of sandalwood. Sandalwood offers mental clarity and promotes peace and relaxation. Sandalwood is also related to spirituality and is used in many spiritual ceremonies (7). It is used in meditation, prayers, etc.
Different Varieties of Sandalwood
- Australian sandalwood is mainly used in perfumes because of its toasted musky scent notes.
- Hawaiian sandalwood has a creamy and tropical undertone and is less on the sweet side.
Cedarwood essential oil
Cedarwood comes from the cedar tree, which is a coniferous tree and is found in the mountain region.
Purifying in Nature
One of the key properties of Cedarwood is that it is purifying in nature, which means that it helps in clearing the skin by removing impurities and dirt from the skin. It also manages sebum production on the skin and thus reduces excess oil generation on the skin. Thus, reduces the chances of acne and other skin issues caused due to excess oil. It also improves skin complexion.
Different Varieties of Cedarwood
- Cedarwood atlas promotes relaxation. It is also used in clearing congestion.
- Cedarwood Himalayan is used in insecticides.
- Cedarwood, Texas, is famous for its grounding properties. It is also used in bug and insect repellants.
- Cedarwood, Virginia is used for its properties that help promote relaxation.
Cedarwood And Sandalwood Oils And How To Use Them?
Cedarwood oil is extracted from cedarwood trees, whereas sandalwood oil is extracted from sandalwood trees. Both oils can be used in many different manners, as follows:
Aromatherapy
Both cedarwood oil and sandalwood oil can be used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation. They can be diffused with the help of an essential oil diffuser.
Bath
A few drops of these essential oils can be added to a warm bath for a relaxing and grounding experience. It helps add extra moisture to your skin.
Massage
Both oils can be used in massage to promote relaxation. They can be blended with other carrier oils such as coconut oil, sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, and essential oils for a customized massage experience.
Skin and Hair Care
Both oils can be used in skin and hair care to soothe dry, itchy skin and promote hair growth. They can be added to a moisturizer or hair oil for added benefits.
You can also use them in a compress by mixing them with water.
*Note: It's important to use essential oils safely. Always dilute them with carrier oil before applying them to the skin. Essential oils blend well with carrier oils and serve their purpose. It is recommended to do a patch test before using them on large areas of skin. And it's important to avoid using essential oils on babies, children, or pregnant women without consulting a doctor first.
Conclusion
Both oils are great for skincare and have somewhat similar earthy fragrances. Both can heal and soothe the skin and fight different symptoms of skin conditions. Cedarwood is insecticidal, whereas sandalwood oil is used for spiritual purposes.
Sandalwood oil is slightly sweet as compared to cedarwood essential oil. These oils also form part of aphrodisiac oils.
