Cedar Trees Have Been A Staple For Civilization For Centuries

Cedar has been an important tree for many Indigenous communities throughout North America for thousands of years. Cedar has a wide range of uses, including medicinal, ceremonial, and practical applications.

In this article, we will explore how Native Americans used cedar for their benefits and how we can use cedar today to benefit ourselv

Medicinal Uses

Native Americans used cedar for a variety of medicinal purposes. Cedar leaves and bark were used to treat colds, coughs, and other respiratory illnesses.

Cedar tea, made from the leaves and bark, was used to reduce fevers, relieve pain, and improve digestion. Cedar was also used as a natural insect repellent, helping to ward off mosquitoes and other pests.

Ceremonial Uses

Cedar has been an important plant in many Native American ceremonies. Cedar is used in purification ceremonies, as it is believed to have cleansing and healing properties.

Cedar trees are used in sweat lodges, where it is burned to create a fragrant smoke that is believed to carry prayers to the Creator. Cedar is considered a sacred plant by many Native American communities, and its use in ceremonies is still prevalent today.

Practical Uses

Cedar trees were used for a variety of practical applications by Native Americans. Cedar bark was used to make clothing, baskets, and other woven items. Cedar was also used to make canoes and other watercraft, as it is a lightweight and durable wood.

Cedar was used to build longhouses and other structures, as it is a weather-resistant wood that can withstand the elements.

Modern Uses of Cedar

Today, the cedar tree is still widely used for its many benefits. Cedarwood essential oil is commonly used in aromatherapy and personal care products. The oil has a warm and woodsy aroma that promotes relaxation and helps reduce stress and anxiety. Cedarwood essential oil is also used in skincare products for its antifungal and antibacterial properties.

Cedar is also a popular choice for outdoor furniture, decking, and siding because of its durability and resistance to weather and decay. Cedarwood is also a popular choice for indoor furniture and flooring because of its aesthetic appeal and durability. Cedar is prized for its natural beauty and is commonly used in decorative applications, such as carvings and other ornamental items.

Cedar is still used for practical applications as well. Cedar is used to make cedar hangers and cedar sachets, which are natural insect repellents that help protect clothing and linens from moths and other pests. Cedar is also used in the construction of greenhouses, as it is a natural insect repellent that can help protect plants from pests.

Conclusion

Cedar Trees have been an important source for many Indigenous communities throughout North America for thousands of years. Cedar has been used for medicinal, ceremonial, and practical applications for centuries.

Today, cedar is still widely used for its many benefits. Cedarwood essential oil is commonly used in aromatherapy and personal care products, and cedar is a popular choice for outdoor and indoor furniture, as well as decorative applications. Cedar is also still used for practical applications, such as natural insect repellents for clothing and linens.

By incorporating cedar into our lives, we can benefit from its many properties and continue to honor its sacred place in Indigenous communities.

If you are interested in incorporating cedar into your home and daily life, consider exploring Cedar Sense’s wide range of cedar products

Cedar Sense is an American company that specializes in cedar based products. Make sure you do your research when purchasing your cedar. Many companies that sell cedar are from China.