This tall evergreen conifer (average height around 40-50 metres), is considered and recognised as a true Cedar wood, originating from the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, and possibly the mountainous area of NW Algeria, between 1000 - 2000 metres above sea level. Some height exceptions have exceeded up to a possible 65 metre, with a sturdy trunk diameter of 2 metres, and taking about 20 years for the tree to reach maturity, before they are logged and processed.

Wood collection is carried out throughout the year, excluding the Winter months. Woodchip waste is bought directly from the furniture and artwork industries from March to November which is stored for subsequent essential oil distillation. Woodchips are not traded during the bitterly cold Winter months to ensure adequate stock for heating for local forest residents. It has been reputed, the Atlas is said to be the finest of the Cedar wood's available, and a desired furniture making component. The various stages of cultivation are managed by the Moroccan government and maintained by the local population to ensure its sustainability.

High in sesquiterpenes, this oil has anti-inflammatory, mucolytic, sedative and spasmolytic effects, making it particulary beneficial with coughs, bronchitis, catarrh and other respiratory conditions. It is also beneficial for muscular aches and pains, including arthritis and rheumatism. Additionally, it is beneficial for oily skin and hair, scalp tonic and meditation.

Safety Precaution : Should be avoided during pregnancy.

Blends well with : Rosewood, Bergamot, Cypress, Cassia, Jasmine, Neroli, Rosemary, and Ylang Ylang. 

FACT : It was used by the ancient Egyptians in their embalming and purification process, as well cosmetics and perfumery. Besides its strength and longevity, it is said that King Solomon had temples made out of the timber, and it was once known as 'the Tree of Life' (a possible and debatable close botanical relative C. libani, the biblical Cedar of Lebanon), which the essential oil was thought to promote courage and strength. It has a reputation to being the oil of choice, that David had possessed before fighting Goliath.