Cedar is a material with an aroma that is nearly universally recognized, though the perception of its quality is highly personal. Broadly defined, “cedar” refers to the fragrant wood from various coniferous trees, including true cedars (Cedrus) and species of juniper (Juniperus) or cypress (Cupressus). The scent’s deep, woody character comes from volatile compounds locked within the wood, which are slowly released into the air. This distinct fragrance has long been a part of human culture and commerce.
The Chemical Compounds That Create the Aroma
The characteristic woody scent is created by a complex mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that vaporize easily at room temperature. A primary component is cedrol, a sesquiterpene alcohol molecule. Cedrol’s structure dictates how it interacts with olfactory receptors, producing the core perception of a dry, cedarwood odor. Other significant VOCs include the hydrocarbons alpha-cedrene and thujopsene, which contribute to the aroma’s woody and slightly resinous notes. As the wood ages, these compounds slowly sublime, changing directly from a solid to a gas, releasing the scent molecules into the air. This steady release gives cedar its long-lasting fragrance.
How Cedar Species Affect the Scent Profile
The term “cedar” is commonly applied to trees that are not botanically true cedars, leading to a wide range of scent profiles. For example, Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana) is a juniper species. Its oil has a high concentration of \(\alpha\)-cedrene, resulting in a milder, sweet, pencil-like wood scent often described as clean and appealing. In contrast, the Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica) is a true cedar, yielding a more resinous, deep, and balsamic aroma. This scent contains various atlantone isomers, which contribute richness but can sometimes include a sharper, camphoraceous, or creosolic aspect.
Why Cedar Scent is Valued in Practical Use
The distinct chemical makeup of cedar oil makes it highly useful beyond simple pleasant fragrance. One of its longest-standing applications is as a natural insect repellent, particularly against moths. The volatile compounds disrupt pest pheromones, offering protection for stored clothing and linens. In perfumery, cedar oil serves as an excellent base note, where cedrol acts as a fixative by slowing the evaporation rate of more volatile scent components. The scent is also utilized in aromatherapy for its grounding properties, helping to promote calm and intensify concentration.