The Alas Cedar (scientific name Cedrus atlantica) is a species of pine tree. It is native to the Rif and Atlas Mountains in Morocco and also to Tell Atlas in Algeria.
It can grow up to 35 metres high and its trunk can be up to 2 metres wide. Its cones average at less than 9 centimetres long. Its leaves are about 10-25 milimetres long.
The wood of the Atlas Cedar is used in furniture making. Its bark is used to produce an essential oil with the following tones :
- soft woody
- fresh
- natural
- camphoraceous
- balsamic undertones – sweet and warm
- slight resin notes
- slightly spicy
Atlas cedar bark essential oil is used in skincare for its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and astringent qualities. It helps regulate sebum production thus controlling oily skin conditions. Less oily skin results and its antiseptic and astringent qualities result in less acne and blemishes. It can also soothe irritations because of its anti-inflammatory property.
In addition to skincare, it can also be used in haircare to strengthen hair follicles and manage dandruff and scalp problems because of its antifungal and anti-inflammatory qualities.
We use atlas cedar bark essential oil for its soft, calming fragrance and its ability to help control sebum production, treat acne and soothe skin irritation.
Image Credits
- Atlas Cedar Header Image
- Atlas Cedar Tree Image
- Photo by : Mounir Neddi on WikiMedia
- Atlas Cedar Bark Image
- Photo by : Agnieszka KwiecieĊ, Nova on Wikimedia